Something to think about

Philippians 4:6-13 says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honourable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.”

'I don't mind changes as long as I'm in control of them.' Most of us don't say this rather bold and scary thought out loud, but it's likely true for many of us. We don't know what later today will bring, or tomorrow, or next week, or next year. We have to trust in something and I choose to trust in Someone. I'm not always very good at trusting, but to the best of my ability I choose to trust in my Heavenly Father. I don't trust God because I'm trusting, but because He's trustworthy. The Bible and life experiences have taught me that.

Phil 4:6 says, “don't worry”. Perhaps easier said than done, but if we're going to use the Bible as our measuring stick, then we need to make a conscious effort to do what it says - don't worry. I think the next logical question is, how don't we worry? The next verse says to tell God what we need, thank Him for what He's done and then we'll experience God's peace. It's hard to worry when we're handing God our needs, thanking Him and sitting in His peace.

Next Phil 4:8 says to fix our thoughts on what is true, honourable, right, pure, lovely and admirable. Sometimes it's hard to think on these things after we've read the newspaper, watched the news or received a difficult phone call. However, the Bible tells us how to cope with the challenges in our days - take control of our thoughts and think on God's truths.

Then “put into practice all that you have learned”. There's our challenge for today (and every day following) put into practice what we've learned. We can't just snap our fingers and change our circumstances, but we can daily walk with the Lord using each situation to grow, mature and draw closer to Him. There's nothing like walking in the valleys hand in hand with the Lord; step by step, clinging to His hand, trusting Him to keep you on the path and being in His presence. I didn't say it was easy, but there is nothing like it.

As I go about my day I'm going to try to think about truth, honour, rightness, purity, loveliness and all that's admirable. How about you?

Jo-Ann

The Good is the Enemy of the Best

"I want to keep my soul fertile for changes, for things getting born in me...so things keep dying when its time for them to die." Donald Millar

This week I have been tackling the grim task of purging my overflowing "storage" aka: "memories.” I find in life sometimes we hold on so tight to those things that have such a deep and meaningful place in our lives...that there is difficulty for new things to come and take their place.
Usually I think its because we don't want to replace what we held so dear in our hearts. We as women I think find this especially challenging.

During my Master's Commission years we use to quote Jeanie Mayo: "The good is the enemy of the best."In everything...even the good and precious and lovely things in our lives if they take a locked place in our hearts to the point of not allowing for something new...and better to come in...what a tragedy of that preciousness. I believe holding onto the past season for a time is a needed part of our journey. It prepares us for a new season.
However I think too often we trick ourselves into limiting our lives and justify living in the past.
This is true in our walk with Christ and in the life calling and dreams that he has before us.
I myself have just come from a season of letting go of one of the most special memories I have yet experienced. I came to the realization that if I didn't leave it in the past...I would NEVER embrace fully the future God has yet before me.

Jesus loved over flowingly while he walked the earth, but he also loved and then moved on to the next place. Did that mean that He had no love for those he was just with?? NOT AT ALL!! He allowed His time here to be free of "heart restraints and guilt". People would beg Him to stay, yet He knew that He had to "let go" in a sense and keep going.

Ruth is such a beautiful portrayal of this for us as women. She LOVED deeply. I’m sure as she grieved her husbands death and the thought of leaving everything shed known and loved behind for a foreign place, she wasn't wanting that change. As she choose through that pain and precious memory to move on with Naomi and leave what she loved behind..she recognized what was left was memory. Good memory, but only memory. She went on to live her life FULL by letting go of that good season and walked in the best.....God not only played matchmaker for her...but she became the great grandmother of King David...in the line of Christ.

When we let go of the good.....and embrace and allow for new things to grow and take place in our lives, we live out God's best for us. It starts in our daily relationship with Him, and through that, every aspect of life. The BEST will look and feel different than the BETTER. In keeping daily your heart fertile for those new things...the Best will take its place and the season that has been lived, loved and is dying now, can be fully let go*

God’s Best Friends,
Mary

Calling all Mamas...to prayer

You mamas out there, yep, you! 

Do you find yourself teaching, training, disciplining, loving and nurturing on your children and still battling disobedience, complaining, contentious attitudes and even spirits of rebellion?  Do you sometimes feel so overwhelmed by the demands that the delights are hard to see during your day?

"...pour out thine heart like water
before the face of the Lord:
lift up thy hands toward him
for the life of thy young children..."
~ Lamentations 2:19

  

We can fill their minds and lives with principles, but it is only HE that can change their hearts.  Maybe you find yourself like I do at times, without words, overwhelmed by feelings or just seeking some form of direction for prayer...  I love, love, love praying the Word over them.  Over the years I have explored many "plans" for praying for my children.  I thought I'd share one of them with you today:

1. That they will know Christ as Savior early in life
(Psalm 63:1; 2 Timothy 3:15)
2. That they will fear the Lord & serve Him
(Deuteronomy 6:13)
3. That they will have a hatred for sin.
(Psalm 97:10)
4. That they will be caught when guilty & gratefully receive discipline
(Psalm 119:71)
5. That they will accept responsibility for their sins
(Psalm 51:1-4,9,10)
6. That they will have quick, repentant hearts
(Psalm 51:1-3)
7. That they will be teachable & able to take correction
(Isaiah 54:13;Proverbs 13:1)
8. That they will be protected from the evil one in each area of their lives:
spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, & physically
(John 17:15; 1 Thess.5:22-23; Matthew 6:13)
9. That they will have a responsible attitude and excellent spirit in all their ways & relationships
(Daniel 6:3)
10. That their lives will bear the fruit of the Spirit
(Galatians 5:22,23)
11. That they will live by the Spirit and not gratify their flesh
(Galatians 5:16)
12. That they will honor their parents so all will go well with them
(Ephesians 6:1,2)
13. That they will respect those in authority over them
(Rom.13:1; Ex.20:12; 1 Thess.5:12-13; Eph.6:1-3,5-7)
14. That they will desire the right kind of friends and be protected from the wrong friends
and those who would corrupt them
(Proverbs 10,11,19)
15. That they will be kept from the wrong mate and saved for the right one
(2 Corinthians 6:14-17)
16. That they, as well as those they marry, will be kept pure until marriage
(1 Corinthians.6:18-20)
17. That they will learn to totally submit to God and actively resist Satan in all circumstances
(James 4:7)
18. That they will trust in the Lord for direction in their lives
(Proverbs 3:5,6)
19. That they will be singlehearted and wholly committed to the Lord Jesus Christ
(Romans 12:1-2)
20. That they will be hedged by God so that they cannot find their way to wrong people
or wrong places and that the wrong people cannot find their way to them.
(Hosea 2:6)

Believing with you today that

"I have no greater joy than to hear
that my children walk in truth."
~ 3 John 1:4

Giselle

Dust Bunnies & Sin

I understand a group of rabbits is called a herd and a herd of rabbits live in a warren. Now before you think I am a walking encyclopedia, I'm not. I googled it.


Here's my question I've been pondering... could I call a large clump of dust a 'herd of dust bunnies'?

I don't know about you but keeping up with dusting, cleaning and the dreaded dust bunny is a never-ending job – at least at my house. Not long ago the invasion of the dust bunnies took on a whole new meaning. I was busy... then a little at a time... before I knew it... they were everywhere. If I kept the curtains closed and the lights turned down low I found they weren't as noticeable. I thought about tackling them, but it seemed to be an overwhelming job. (I know some of you can relate to this.)  The other day I was standing doing dishes and decided it was time to take on the dust bunnies. I gave myself a little pep-talk, “I could do it. I've done it before. Today was as good a day as any.”

Then the thought came to me... this is a little like sin. If we're not diligent it creeps in, a little at a time and before you know it we're overwhelmed and not sure where to start. I'm reminded of 1 Peter 5:8 which says, “Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack.” I can't say I've ever heard of someone being attacked by dust bunnies, but they can certainly sneak up on you. Just because the lights are turned down and they're hardly noticeable doesn't mean they aren't still in the corners. The challenge comes in persevering and staying on guard.. We need to roll up our sleeves, open up the curtains and get busy. Here are the lessons I've learned/learning:

• Be on guard
• Clean up and repent every day
• If it gets away on you get help
• Call someone if you need to

I'm still learning, but with God's grace and a good vacuum & duster I should be able to go another week.

Jo-Ann

He. Knows. You.

This weekend I have been spending alot of concentrated time with people I have never ever spent time with. I've done a variety of things from horseback riding to having a dinner date with 5 amazing women of God......4 of them I had never met before. Its beautiful how God brings people together in the most unexpected ways and from those moments of meeting connects them with a deeper purpose.....connected to desires and dreams within our private hearts.
Once again I am reminded that God knows what He is doing and knows the best timing for things to come to pass. I’m not sure what you're waiting for today...or what you have been waiting for....I do know one thing though, God KNOWS what He’s doing. Especially in those times where it feels like He has no idea where you are or what is going on inside your heart or outside all around you.  I can attest to the fact that I have been in those moments many, many times and every time, He has proven Himself faithful.
It sometimes takes a while though and you often have to walk for what feels like forever on a journey through the unknown. God doesn't say He will remove you from those times, but He will walk with you, through them. Isaiah 42.16 “ I will lead the blind by ways they have no known., along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.”
My dear Friend, don't short change yourself by taking matters into your own hands. Continue to immerse yourself in His presence. Continue to take His Word for exactly what it says and be aware of those low moments when you feel like you have had enough.  God will prove Himself faithful in His timing and the correct unfolding of His vision. Continue to trust Him. Its not easy, however, you will become transformed into more of His likeness as you fully give your heart to HIM. You will live more of who you were born to be and in ways you never imagined you could. The joy in Christ that you will know will be beyond anything you have yet experienced. You will again be taken to a new place in your relationship with Jesus Christ. AMEN!!!
However you’re feeling today...know you're not alone! There is going to be a day of unfolding and fulfillment. It just may come when you least expect it, and in a way that you didn’t count on. God loves to surprises us I think. One thing is for sure, He will ALWAYS come through for you. Stay open, you have no idea when He’s going to show up, or through whom. Keep believing Him for ALL that He has promised*

Blessings on your week ahead!
Mary

Are you ready to receive?

Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. 
You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. 
Don't be afraid of missing out.  You're my dearest friends! 
The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself. 

Taken from Simple Gifts: Treasures for a Mother's Heart Calendar

It's easy to get caught up in our daily demands and distractions isn't it?  Responsibilities, routines and even precious relationships can tie up our time and zap our zeal for living. 

God's Word instructs us to hold every thought captive.  God wants to bless us, provide for us and inspire us.  How are you doing with your daily quiet time these days?  I love the word picture above of "steeping myself in God-reality".  I love my daily quiet time - I can get so involved in my reading, studying and praying that I don't want it to end.  I feel steeped myself: fired up and infused with the aroma of His wisdom in the Word. I am repeatedly so humbled how timely His Word is, how tenderly He guides me, lighting my path with inspiration and creativity. The practice never comes up void! 

Are you drinking deeply in His Word?  Are you struggling?  Are you complacent?  What if you could live beyond your circumstances?  You CAN!  Get in the Word, get equipped, grab a girlfriend and have fun sharing what you are learning with each other.  Then, get ready...you'll receive in ways you cannot even imagine.  Are you ready?

Giselle

More Than Enough

I'm not typically someone who reads the Old Testament just for the sake of reading the Old Testament, however I've been in Exodus the past few days because of my daily bible readings (www.youversion.com). I'm finding it interesting to read about the Israelites who recently left Egypt in a flurry of signs and wonders from God, who rebel and complain on numerous occasions, and now in today’s reading are obedient when God speaks to them. (Sometimes I wonder how similar we are to the Israelites.)

Earlier in Exodus God gave very specific instructions to build the Tabernacle. God choose Bezalel, a gifted craftsmen, along with Oholiab to help him construct and furnish the Tabernacle. In Exodus 35:4-19 God gave instructions to Moses to tell the people very specifically what was needed for the sanctuary of the Tabernacle. Then I read Ex. 36:7 and it jumped off the screen at me. It says, “Their contributions were more than enough to complete the whole project.”

More than enough. How many situations have you been in where people donated more than enough? I've been in many circumstances where people gave some, gave lots, gave almost enough; but more than enough?! This challenges me and stirs me. Has God asked me to give so I can be part of the more than enough category and I've chosen to only give some or almost enough? Has God nudged my heart or had someone speak His truths and I've thought I was being obedient by giving some?

If the grumbling, idol making, rebellious Israelites can make contributions which were more than enough to complete the whole project, then surely I can too.

Lord, help me to listen and be obedient when you speak. Help me to give more than enough.


Jo-Ann

Take 5 minutes

Its been another full week, lots of things going on and happening. Sometimes I can honestly say I feel like I am watching parts of my life fly by. In the middle of the business it can be easy to get distracted and yes, discouraged. I don't know about you, but I find that the last few months of winter can be challenging to get through sometimes. I want to encourage you today as you're probably somewhat like me, coming off of a busy week and headed into a busy weekend.....take a few moments, besides your daily time with Jesus and breathe in the truth of His words. Even just for 5 minutes. Read a scripture from Isaiah. It is so packed full of God's encouragement and promises of who HE IS in YOUR LIFE:
Isaiah 41.13 "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you."
Isaiah 43.1 "...Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine."
Isaiah 46. 3 "....you whom I have upheld since you were conceived., and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and grey hairs I am He, I am the One who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."

Again to be reminded how much you and  I are valued, how we matter and are so DEEPLY loved by God. I pray that in this season of love, you would have such a new revelation of the Love our God has for YOU. He has not forgotten you (He knows you by name),  He has not let go of your hand when the rubber is meeting the road. He desires and longs to be the One to rescue your heart in the middle of what is going on around you. Through this He gives us opportunity to also be there for one another, in the easier seasons and in the super tough ones.

Like I mentioned, winter can bring alot of things and discouragement can be one of them. I find when I do simple things within my home to add more life to my space it makes a huge difference. I'm not talking about a full scale reno....a bouquet of fresh flowers from Superstore (or your local food market) will do the trick. Possibly you know someone who is a little discouraged these days, dropping off some fresh flowers is a great way to say you matter and you're not alone.

Friend, I pray that today you would again have a new revelation of the depth of God's love for you and through your own encouragement others will be changed*

Have a great weekend!
Mary

Are You Daring?

   How do you feel about riding roller coasters?  Do you jump at the chance to strap yourself to the seat and be whirled and twirled, flipped upside down and jerked left to right at death defying heights and speeds and angles?

   Daring requires a decision to do something regardless of every difficulty, danger and daunting fear perceived.  Doubt can paralyze, just when God may be leading us to something new. 

   I can’t help but think about Joshua when I face a challenge filled with giants - real or imagined.  “Be strong and very courageous.  Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you.  Do not deviate from them,” the Lord encouraged Joshua.  We too, need to be committed to duty and obedience to God’s Word or we are powerless.  BUT, so long as we are not presumptuous, embrace the flutters in our tummies and our quickening pulse, and proceed confidently in God, any ~thing~ is possible!  

   Daring happens on a miracle basis – doubt and deliberation relies on human ability.  Prayer and patience will multiply our strength. Draw on these thoughts.  Practice daring feats (large and small) and you’ll surprise yourself with how much your faith will grow.

    How can you stretch yourself for God today?  This week?  At home?  In your ministry?  Is it time to step out or step in?  Let’s be women who purpose to embrace and follow His command, sensitive to what the Holy Spirit puts on our hearts, and prepared to act.  I dare ya!

                                        

“This is my command – be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid or discouraged.  For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

(Joshua 1:7)

Giselle

Influencer or Leader?

"Leadership is influence.  Nothing more and nothing less."  John Maxwell


If you are a woman of influence, then you are a leader. Leanne McAlister shared this statement while I was at the national women's conference in Moncton, NB last month. For many years I didn't consider myself a leader. It's only been in the past few years I would put myself into the category of leader. When she talked about leaders as people who influence others I had to reconsider how I have been defining a leader.

People influence others all of the time. In our workplaces, at home, at school, what we watch on tv, as well as what we listen to through our headphones. When I think of influencers on the playground I see both bullies as well as kids who reach out and include new kids to their circle of friends. We can look at and read about world leaders who have made significant and positive changes to their countries, as well as leaders who have buckled the knees of their countrymen and women. A leader isn't a leader because they do good. A leader is a leader because they have the ability to influence others.

Well this gets me thinking... how do others influence me, and how do I influence others? Am I influencing them for my benefit or am I influencing them to be God-followers. To be more like Jesus. To live life where it counts. To make a difference in the world we live in. Whether it's in your home, your workplace, at school or in your backyard – how are you influencing others? Who are you going to influence them towards?

My prayer is Jesus, because at the end of the day that's what really matters.

Hebrews 13:7 (NLT)

“Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.”

Jo-Ann