Continue on this path with Me, enjoying Presence even in adversity. I am always before you, as well as alongside you. See Me beckoning to you: Come! Follow Me. The One who goes ahead of you, opening up the way, is the same One who stays close and never lets go of your hand. I am not subject to limitations of time or space. I am everywhere at every time, ceaselessly working on your behalf. That is why your best efforts are trusting Me and living close to Me.Hebrews 7:25
English Standard Version
Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.
Psalm 37:3-4
English Standard Version
Trust in the Lord, and do good;
dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
My Prayer
(3/6/14) - Lord, may I find comfort today in You. Help me to recognize Your nearness in my conversations, in my daily disciplines. You are there. Draw me closer to You.
(3/6/17) - Lord, sometimes the adversity in my life is challenges I place on myself. Lord, my anger, which has always been a problem with me, got the best of me Saturday night when I laid into my son because he wasn't listening to me and heeding my call. So, I went to yelling and cursing to demand his adherence. But I showed him then how to deal with situations in life that are unwelcome. Lord, I get concerned that I am training my children at times to not deal with their problems correctly, and instead to yell things. My 16 year old son proceeded to punch a hole in the wall, thus he demonstrated his anger. Lord, forgive me. I hate those times because it is hard to see myself as Your child and be accepted into your presence for I act in a manner that is not befitting for a child of God. I fail and it feels like I am distancing myself from you through those actions. Thank you that I took the time to seek out reconciliation with my son and offered my apology but I still think I permanently misdirected the ship of life into a course that does not glorify you. Lord, help me to stay in Your Presence and even for my kids to stay in Your Presence. I realize I make mistakes and that I often get in the way of my own growth, but bring me back to the cross. Remind me that you are there, close. And I need to trust in You. Help me to learn how to deal with these situations where my kids are simply challenging my authority.
Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.
Oh thank you for your honesty and specific details. I have been in this type of situation numerous times with my son. It's a lonely, isolating place. BUT all things come together for good for those who love the Lord. Give us the strength to call on you even in the midst of intense anger and frustration. Teaching forgiveness is a beautiful thing. God bless you for your writings. Sometimes they are the only thing getting me out of bed
ReplyDeleteThank you for your raw honesty and know that you are not alone. I too, and countless others "fail" as parents. .or that's what satan wants us to think. I am so grateful for you posting these devotionals, since I can't always read the book. My prayer for us all is to realize how wide and how deep God's love is for us.
ReplyDeleteAs a family we had a tough year with our daughter getting connected with the wrong crowd (that is our opinion anyway). So overall one of those stressful years. My wife and I were getting into it about something and I walked away and called her a name on my way down the stairs that I wish I could take back. It haunts me almost daily and I am battling this inner battle that goes between forgiveness and shame and it is driving me crazy. I know God forgives me and I hope my wife can but the question becomes can I forgive myself. I am literally beating myself up over it. I know God is working it for good in my life but i really struggle trusting that. Praying for our weakness, His strength, and trust in Him for all of us.
ReplyDeleteJust tell your wife I'm sorry, and I love you, and that will go a long long way to bridge the gap you are unwittingly forming between you and your wife over this situation. Trust in our Awesome God always!💖
DeleteI'm writing this that as a parent, I was blessed by the Lord to have opportune years with my kids that they experienced, they got to see, the change Holy Spirit did in me that I didn't respond with anger and yelling. I absolutely hated how I reacted to their disobedience, or that they didn't do something the way I thought it "should" be done.
DeleteLearning (and teaching it's ok for them to have) boundaries is important, but it's so necessary to allow Holy Spirit to do the work (and you be obedient) or you'll just accomplish teaching your kids your way, instead of His way. If you repeatedly are asking them for forgiveness, that is only worldly sorrow, not godly sorrow that leads to repentance. Your children need to experience you truly repenting and live seeing God change you.
I know this was a "rough" word, but necessary for the sake of your children. (I realize most of your children are already grown, but there are others who still read the comments)
As I read this in 2023 I'm also thankful for your honesty and your openness about your situation. I too have regretted my response in the past with my children and wondered about the damage.
DeleteThe Lord reminds me that he is in control and we never know what lessons are learned from our actions good or bad.
The beauty I see in your response is that you modeled asking for forgiveness and recognizing wrongs that you did, that is a great lesson for your children and all our children to learn.
I have to enter into this prayer reply, as a parent of 4 children, it is a frequent situation of wishing my response to a behavior would have been different. I have to remember that in my "humanness" that I falter. God made me human. It comes with freedoms to make my own choices but also with all the imperfections that come with it. We, I, need to remember God loves us unconditonally with all our imperfections. We are imperfectaly-perfect". We need to believe we are always His beloved.
ReplyDeleteDear Heavenly Father God,
DeleteBe Merciful to me, a sinner. How I wish I had a delete key for some of the words that came out of my mouth, hurt those I love, brought on painful distances, and estrangements...but I have no delete key for words that have already come out of my mouth
Since I don't, I pray God is singing,
All of ME by John Legend
ALL of ME
Loves ALL of you
I Love your curves and ALL your edges
I Love ALL your perfect imperfections
Give your ALL to ME
I'M giving MY ALL to you
I'M your end and your beginnin'
Even when you feel you lose, I'M winnin'
'Cause I'M giving you ALL of ME
Give me ALL of you...
How many times do I have to tell you?
Even when you're crying, you're beautiful to ME
When the world is beating you down, know I'M still around
Through every mood
Because ALL of ME loves ALL of you...
Amen, ABC and Brie. "God loves us unconditonally with all our imperfections. We are imperfectaly-perfect". It's difficult to fathom sometimes, but so true, ABC. And a beautiful song, Brie, that mimics God's unconditional all-encompassing love for us. I may have never seen the connection to Christ through this song, so thank you. Blessings to all from California ❤
DeleteYes, Brie and Rose, this is a love song that sure can reflect our love with God!
Delete🎶 Link: https://youtu.be/450p7goxZqg
Thanks Audra, I love that version of unconditional pure love as I love the John Legend & Lindsey Stirling version (Lindsey was considered an American Idol "Loser") which shows me once again, it matters not what the world thinks nor how it judges. God's Gifts of Love and His Plan proceed on regardlessly. YEAH! God!
Delete👍
DeleteThank you for being honest and showing me how to talk with our Lord. I use your blog daily instead of the book so I can learn how to pray and communicate
ReplyDeleteI too have owned the book but prefer this blog for the same reasons. I learn so much here about how we can pray and how we can train our mind as Christians. What a blessing to many. Thank you Payton Family
DeleteIt is hard to imagine how we enjoy a personal relationship with God when you then also realize how vast the universe is that He created. Sarah captures the conversation as I imagine it would be: "I am not subject to limitations of time or space. I am everywhere at every time, ceaselessly working on your behalf." How AWESOME is our God that He is with us every moment? Embrace His willingness to hold YOU with His right hand and bless you. Amen.
ReplyDeleteAmen dear MadFox. We could run to the farthest ends of the earth and He will still be beside us to guide and protect us. His love is all compassing and never ending. It really is mind boggling and so comforting. I loved your last sentence: “Embrace His willingness to hold YOU with His right hand and bless you.”
DeleteAmen.
I remain amazed that Jesus' first post mortem act was to send God's Holy Spirit, His Comforter. In His Higher Wisdom, HE knew HIS earthly body could only reach so many, and God's Heavenly Spirit could be everywhere, every time, inside everyone, and reaching all at the same time. What Absolute Brilliance! All we have to do is receive and unleash His Holy Spirit inside of us, and then follow, follow, follow....
DeleteI'm still amazed, yet Comforted.
Thanks Be To God and to you, JC Family, for your honest outpouring and heartfelt sharing of God's Holy Spirit. I'm so very, very thankful The Holy Spirit invited and led all of us right here, right now.
Amen! Also grateful ♥️🙏
DeleteIts such a relief to know I’m not the only one who has had ugly difficult times with my children. They are now grown and with Gods grace we now have tender sweet relationships healed with His grace. I’ve apologized over the years and been brutally honest and with prayer God heals! Thank you all for your sharing as it brightens my morning and sets me on Gods path for the day! Amen
ReplyDeleteNot even sure where to add in this comment that it might be helpful to anyone!
DeleteI had a book that was very helpful in my children's formative years (do wish I'd had it earlier, but God brings good!).
How Children Raise Parents: The Art of Listening to Your Family by Dan Allender, PhD. helps you understand how God wants to work in you and in your children to become more like Him.
Oh my goodness! I was reading frantically because I wanted to respond with... YOU ARE NOT ALONE@ I GET IT! THANK YOU FOR BEING HONEST! and then I see that I DID say those things a year ago. Oh God is good Payton family. Forgiveness and asking forgiveness are gifts from God. Move forward. One day at a time. Seek the lord always. He can heal
ReplyDeleteTrusting The Lord, As I read today's posts, I too, started singing, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! and remembered an old man who was commenting on how well and deeply he slept every night. When I asked him his secret, he said, Every night he got on his knees to pray and ended all his nightly prayers with: "I FORGIVE Everybody Everything. Amen." He said then I lie my head on my pillow, and if someone who may have wronged me, or whom I have wronged, comes to mind, I say: "It's ALL forgiven." Amen
DeleteThanks, Dad!
That's beautiful, Brie! I will borrow that nightly ritual for myself. What a wonderful way to forgive all as Christ forgives us. God bless you.
DeleteLove this, thanks Dad!
DeleteAnd I am remembering these words to use when we think we have hurt someone:
I'm sorry.. Please forgive me... Thank you...I love you.
I would like to thank my JC family for all of your prayers and well wishes as hubby is healed! This is a family of beautiful hearts that share their wisdom with us all. God bless you today and everyday. ♥️ Amen!! Thank you Jesus.
DeleteThank You Lord for yet another of Your many VICTORIES! I raise my Glass of HALLELUJAH high in Praise and Thanksgiving to You!
DeletePTL! Amanda. Hallelujah!
DeleteI love this! I forgive everyone everything! As He forgives me.
DeleteThank you all for being so open about your shortcomings as parents. I'm right there front & center! Mine are grown now and raising children of their own. Our two sons are great dad's! Inspite of the many flub ups we delivered as parents. Our daughter is still not speaking to us and her father and I wait patiently until she gets turned around. Our God is so faithful and true to His word. He covers over a multitude of sins!
ReplyDeleteJan, keep trusting God, like the prodigal son, your daughter will return and you and your husband will welcome her with open arms. I was in that place with my mother, and I thank God we are back on track and Glorify His name for keeping her well and alive! Time heals all wounds and God is Faithful!
DeleteThank you this blog. Today’s comments about being imperfect parents ring true for me. My husband and I have raised our 4 children as immigrants in the US. I was always tired from work and came home to cook and do chores and was short tempered and angry and yelling most of the time. They’re all grown now and also raising their own children. We enjoy a good relationship with our 2 girls and one son but our oldest son has not spoken to us for years. I’ve tried to reach out, n birthdays and holidays and remains aloof and ignores my texts/calls. There’s not a day I don’t think or pray for him that God would change his heart and show us forgiveness and compassion. We are in our mid 70’s and am afraid we don’t have a lot of yeas left. I feel guilty and wish I had been more gentle in raising my kids. I keep wishing he’ll come around and forgive as I know God has.
DeletePraying for and with you, Zen from Cali, and for and with our entire JC Family.
DeleteChange his, her and my heart O God, make us forever new.
Change his, her and my heart O God, until we are just like You!
All is Forgiven. Amen.
We did the very best we could, with all we had to give.
Jesus knows. I imagine that is why He allowed inclusion of The Prodigal Son Story into The Bible so we too, could have Persistent Hope in Him to lean on during earthly estrangement times. And when the loving return happens we are both changed to really mean it when we say, I Love You! Praise God from Whom ALL Blessings flow.
What goes around will come around, bless you and your family in Jesus's name!
DeleteJesus calls us and is constantly calling us to His side where there is perfect guidance, protection and deliverance from evil. Dearly beloved, today begins the season of Lent, the 40 day preparation of the soul for a fuller experience of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus. Observing Lent has fallen on hard times in our present time for many reasons. Too often the Church has made it a "have to" experience. You do not have to observe Lent but it can be a most helpful time to order yourself spiritually which is desirable. The ancient practice of Lent included special times of prayer, the practice of abstaining from some food or activity in order to reflect on God further, and seeking to do acts of charity. In observing these practices, one opens the door to the soul for the Holy Spirit to act and repair the hurts that linger deep within us. The outcome of a healthy and wholesome Lent season is a more meaningful celebration of Jesus' Passion experience observed during Holy Week. If you have not or do not practice any observance of spiritual discipline during these next forty days leading up to Easter, I would encourage you to give thought to it. As we face the challenges of living each day (and the challenge of parenting has had some excellent posts above), seeking a spiritual discipline to which the Spirit might be calling you, could be most helpful in responding well to situations in which you find yourself. God be with you.
ReplyDeleteThanks BOB, I was sharing with a cousin that there was very little left for me to give up. During the last 12 months of pandemia, I have given up so much that one more thing would seem meaningless.
DeleteShe sent me this from The Francis House of Prayer:
LENT: A SEASON FOR FASTING AND FEASTING!
FAST from judging others; FEAST on Seeing Jesus Christ in all;
FAST from harsh words; FEAST on words that Positively Build Up;
FAST from discontent; FEAST on Gratitude!
FAST from anger; FEAST on Patience!
FAST from pessimism; FEAST on Optimism!
FAST from worry; FEAST on Worship!
FAST from complaining; FEAST on Appreciation!
FAST from bitterness; FEAST on Forgiveness!
FAST from criticism; FEAST on Compliments!
FAST from discouragement; FEAST on Hope!
FAST from self-centeredness; FEAST on Compassionate Service to Others!
FAST from lies and suspicious minds; FEAST on Truth!
FAST from weak thoughts; FEAST on His Promises!
FAST from gossip; FEAST on Silence!
FAST from despair; FEAST on Faith in a Good God!
FAST from aloneness; FEAST on At-one-ment in Prayer!
FAST from materialism; FEAST on Experiences with Family and Friends!
FAST from hatred; FEAST on the Greatest of These = LOVE!
Amen, Bob. Observing Lent is an opportunity to grow and develop ourselves to become closer to Christ. I've found it to be a most rewarding experience. My faith has increased exponentially, and I have grown spiritually by His Grace. Thank you, Jesus! I welcome everyone to consider joining in this practice. The rewards are limitless. God be with you all.
DeleteSo utterly honest, Peyton Family. You have the faith of a child to share your heart so purely. Thank you. Thank you for teaching more about Lent, Bob. I need sleep. Lovely service for our friend today. There was much rejoicing and laughter. Very few tears because we know 'the rest of the story.' We left to utterly thankful that we will see our sister in Christ again, whole, healthy and for eternity. Praying that everyone gets a good sleep tonight.
ReplyDeleteI know it has been a year since this post, but I feel compelled to share this quote which always brings me peace when someone has left this earth
Delete“All their life in this world and all their adventures had only been the cover and the title page: now at last they were beginning Chapter One of the Great Story which no one on earth has read: which goes on for ever: in which every chapter is better than the one before.”
― C.S. Lewis, The Last Battle
Thanks for sharing, Mary Jo - that is good. KS
DeleteOne of the many blessings of this blog is the sharing of great quotes with one another. Thank you, Mary Jo!
DeleteThank You Mary Jo Gourd. Truth is Always True, no matter when it was written, or when it was posted!
DeleteWonderful words thanks for sharing Mary
DeleteThat is just beautiful Mary Jo! Thank you so much fir that little gift.
DeleteI didn't see your quote last year, Mary Jo, but what a beautiful reminder for us - every day, every year! Your words are so right, Brie!
DeleteI love that quote!!! Thank you CS Lewis and Mary Jo!!
DeleteThank you Mary Jo! Anything good is worth repeating.
DeleteRomans 3:23
ReplyDelete“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
Yes, He is always there. Hebrews 13:8 also confirms His unchanging love and commitment to us as well! Amen
ReplyDeleteLoving Father, It’s a joy and a blessing to be in Your Presence again. I’m excited and have already claimed some of the many gifts You have planted in this day for me, since waking up to Your glory. The gift of life and the ability to think and function are mine to enjoy and give You thanks. Take over my day and lead me in the way of Your will. Thank You that I’m Forgiven and set Free through the Blood of my Savior Jesus! Thank You Lord.
ReplyDeleteWe are encouraged to stay steadfast in the Word, it is food to our souls. Like the Apostle Paul, we should strive to do the right thing and stayed on the right course (2 Corin.12). Staying on the right course means allowing God to lead the way and we follow.So many times we tend to make our own independent plans or either run to other people for help instead of running to the Lord. So many things can cause us to wander from God’s path, but He beckons us to 'come and follow Him’.
Maybe we’ve been worn down by the hardships of life and allowed fear and bitterness to take root rather than believing God will surely see us through the hard times, but fear not because the Word of God guides us to: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5, 6). This means that God will guide us along the path of life. However, it’s our choice to stay on the path or not.
The story of the Prodigal son in Luke 15 is an example of how we tend to lean on our own understanding without allowing God to direct our path. This son chose to leave the path the father had planned for him. His father had good plans for his son and loves him, but this son has his own plans, so even though it grieved his father, he lets his son leave. We know how the story ends. To sum it up, this is the story of our heavenly Father and how He loves each of us. There’s nowhere we can go that God’s loving arms cannot reach us and rescue us with His love, nevertheless, we should not take God’s love and care toward us for granted, but strive to walk on the right path with Him. Wherever we've wandered, whether in our thoughts and hearts, our Father long for us to return and always ready to welcome us with open arms and a heart bursting with His unconditional love. We must trust His plans for our lives because He can be trusted. Psalm 16:11 says:"You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Heavenly Father, Thank You that even in the midst of trials and adversity, we have an open invitation to enjoy in Your Presence and follow You. Thank You for always going ahead of us and preparing the way. Your Presence is oh so close, never letting go of our hands. May we never put any limits on You, because limitation is no match for You. We thank You for Jesus and thank You for being Omnipresent. We trust You, Love You and thank You for first loving us!
May the Blessings of the KING chase you down this Friday as you follow His lead!
Maplewood, NJ
Awesome post, sweet Maplewood!
DeleteJoining in your wonderful prayer. He is preparing a beautiful day for me and my Mom There’s nowhere we can go that God’s loving arms cannot reach us and rescue us with His love, nevertheless, we should not take God’s love and care toward us for granted, but strive to walk on the right path with Him. and we are grateful.
I’m taking your words with me: “ There’s nowhere we can go that God’s loving arms cannot reach us and rescue us with His love, nevertheless, we should not take God’s love and care toward us for granted, but strive to walk on the right path with Him.” Amen
Thanks Jeanne for that reminder, 'There’s nowhere we can go that God’s loving arms cannot reach us and rescue us with His love, nevertheless, we should not take God’s love and care toward us for granted, but strive to walk on the right path with Him. and we are grateful.'
DeleteIt is more meaningful to me and my son, as we have been separated for the past almost 15 months, by him being in detention for immigration reasons. However, God has been taking good care of him where he is, and we are believing God for his release soon. So please JC family, help me pray that we will soon be reunited when God rescues him from the bondage he has been going through for well over a year.
God is faithful, and I trust He will free my son according to His plan and His timing. Amen.
Praying for you, Emm, and your son and all similarly situated.
DeleteI don't know the True answer, but I know Someone in the Great Somewhere Who Does. I go to Him now, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Joining Brie and our prayer warriors in lifting up Emm and her son to the Throne of Grace. God only knows the whys of our particular situations, and our job is to trust wholly and completely in Him. Trusting in God's perfect timing for answers to our prayers. Keep the faith, Emm. He is always with both of you.
DeleteBlessings from California
Good morning JC family! Thank you for your sharing your insights, thoughts, challenges and prayers! Praying for all of you!
ReplyDeleteMy husband is leaving for a very important business trip. Asking for prayers for his safety, for his health and for successful meetings!
Thank you all! Blessings!
sweet4G - praying for safe travels and successful meetings for your hubby and peace for you. JE
DeleteMay the Lord bless him and keep him; may the Lord make His face to shine upon him and be gracious to him; may the Lord lift up His countenance upon him and give him peace. (Numbers 6:24-26, the benediction of Aaron upon the Israelites and upon your husband, sweet4G.)
Deletesweet4G, Joining the family here in keeping your hubby in prayers for God's traveling grace and mercy as well as favorable outcomes. God is able!
DeleteMaplewood NJ
Thank you all! I sent him your messages and he teared up. Your prayers are so appreciated! I know HE has our hand but it’s nice knowing we have each other’s as well! Love to you all!
DeleteHappy belated birthday Sassy Mom! Hope you had the most wonderful of days!
ReplyDeletesweet4G - I'm still celebrating 87 years - Optometrist appointment (he said most people have had cataract surgery, but I have "dodged the bullet for cataract surgery". Please pray I keep dodging the bullet!!! Travel safety prayers for your husband.
DeleteCorrection - I have appointment with optometrist today. Thank you for praying.
DeletePraying for you Sassy!
DeleteThanking my Father for a peaceful heart as my family returns home. For giving me His peace instead of my anxiety over this renovation. Beating myself up for not going to bed earlier last night and now wanting only sleep. Maybe just another 30 minutes will restore me.
ReplyDeleteLooking back at a year ago this day, reminds me of what is really important. Chris Peyton's honest sharing - all of you on here. Maplewood, I read your devotion from yesterday several times. Again - raw honesty and then bringing it back to the Word. Thank you, Audra and all of you, my JC Family for your prayers yesterday. Know that you are in mine and that surely makes God smile.
Pondering your Lenton sharing, Bob and I thank you.
Putting my best efforts into "trusting Him and keeping Him close" my Lenton sacrifice is to be on constant guard of the words that are released from my lips. This is indeed a discipline! Identifying why my mind goes to complaining and criticizing are the steps that follow. It is alot quieter in my world and hope my Mind will be free to think on lovelier and more satisfying spaces...then I believe my tongue will become a vehicle of love and hope and forward progress instead of keeping me stuck to sinking deeper into the muck and darkness of Satan.
ReplyDeleteHow was it said previously " that the Holy Spirit can then act & repair the hurts that linger deep within" What a glorious gift to lay at the cross which serves so many including myself.
God always has the antidote for our poison. Thank you Lord for your continued love despite our sins. Thank you for your words of encouragement in The Bible and stories for us to relate to. I am a prodigal everyday as I wander away on my own path. So greatful my Father is always expecting and awaiting my return with His loving solution..Him.
Thank you all for your words of honesty and truth. I cannot wait to see how God uses my day today. Peace.
God loves you!
What a wonderful Lenten sacrifice to guard the words of your mouth so they will always please and glorify God!
DeleteLet the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my Redeemer.
Lord help me, "... I am a prodigal everyday as I wander away on my own path."
DeleteThank you Lord for reminding me what is real today. Thank you to this extended Peyton Family for sharing all that you do, your blessings truly inspire daily living in Christ! -audra
ReplyDelete"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me." (Psalm 51:10)
ReplyDelete(Matthew 8:28-34). "Little did I know that upon landing at the other side of the lake in the country of the Gadarenes, I would be in for an experience in spiritual warfare. As we are approaching the city, two individuals come screaming at us out of the tombs. I am thinking, "let's get out of here." But Jesus has a different frame of mind; He holds His ground and faces these individuals. The demonic within them takes over and starts screaming at Jesus for they realize He is the Son of God and they are no match for His divine authority. So they beg Him to send them into the herd of swine (an unclean animal according to the Law) which He does and the swine run down the hill into the sea and drown. The swineherders, realizing they have just failed in their responsibility, run into town to tell the people it was not their fault but that this person, Jesus, has caused this economic loss to the community. The people come out to see Jesus and beg Him to leave their community...and He does and we do. Oh, how tragic."
The demonic wants to take hold of any piece of our heart it can gets its filthy hands on to distract from God glorifying Himself in us. The demons have all kinds of methods; gluttony, lust, greed, anger, indifference, envy, pride, and the list goes on and on. They look to see where we are weakest and attach themselves there. And in a time of vulnerability, even when we know better and can even hear in the distance the Spirit cautioning us, they cause us to do the things we shouldn't do or not do the things we should do (as Paul confesses in Romans 7:14-25). (Now this is scary to admit) and in those moments, like the Gadarenes, I ask Jesus to leave because I know He can overpower whatever it is that the demon is luring me into and my desire for the false gratification it promises. But, He will not leave per my request, He refuses to leave. Because He knows I am going to really need His help when the moment has passed and He will be there for me and He will show me undeserved mercy and He will restore me out of His eternal, unconditional, and uncontainable love for me. Thank you, Lord, for not leaving when I chose to listen to the serpent in the garden of my soul!!!
God be with you and especially when/if you have chosen not to listen to Him. Peace, sisters and brothers, in Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven! With love, Bob
I have been following and being blessed by you all for several months now. Reading these powerful insights into Matthew 8 really hit home, Bob, especially your last line about " listening to the serpent in the garden of my soul". I do this more than I like to admit. I take hope in your words, " Jesus will not leave per my request ...He will restore me out of His eternal, unconditional and uncontainable love for me"
DeleteThank you, Bob, for this encouragement today.
Amen Bob! We are so blessed that when we get distracted and tempted by the world and we let go of the Unchanging Hand, our Lord chases us down and grabs our hand again.
DeleteThank you Bob. "Listening to the serpent in the garden of my soul" Forgive me Lord; thank you for your everlasting presence and love. Thank you for not giving up on me. Jesus, my love have mercy on me.
DeleteHoly Spirit, show me how to silence the serpent that works so hard on my vulnerabilities. I ask, I pray, in Jesus's name.
DeleteLord I am asking for your help. You, The Good Lord Know, I need Your Mega help when I choose to listen to the serpent in the garden of my soul!!! Thank You for sending Saint Michael, Your ArchAngel to defend me in my battles, be my protection against the wickedness and snares of satan, to rebuke satan in the Name of Jesus as I humbly pray. And do, thou O Good Prince of God's Heavenly Host, smash, crash, and burn alive in hell, satan and all satan's evil works and workers who worm their way in this world, seeking the ruin of our souls!
DeleteMay evil get turned around and out of my life, until I get to LIVE in You and You in me forever. Amen
Yo, satan... Your destiny is the LAKE OF FIRE. Go directly there, do not pass GO, do not connect $200. There is nothing for you here.
DeleteLord, I strive each day to live closer to You. I want You to guide my steps on Your path for me. Sometimes it is a struggle but I begin each day anew. Help me to increase my faith, hope and trust in You. Thank You for being The God who goes before me and is always beside me. Please work Your plan in my life.
ReplyDeleteAnd in my life as well. Amen. Thanks, Mark L.
DeleteAmen Mark.
DeleteAmen!!
Delete10-4- per your post yesterday, I pray the healing powers and wonders of Jehovah Rapha upon you. I plead the blood of Jesus over you, may it grant you strength and cause you to overcome all ailments in your body, in Jesus name!
ReplyDeleteIt shall be well.
Maplewood NJ
Thank you Maplewood. HIS healing is already in process.
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I were commenting this morning how great it would be to be able to meet each of this virtual family in person. We'll just have to wait for eternity.
Oh, how great it will be when our hope for eternity is realized. We'll be freed of combat with the forces of darkness that plague unrelentingly.
As I view the time stamps, I realize that our earth turning under the sun, that He created, makes for a time lapse between our posts. The hours that spread between us are but a flash in His eternity.
ReplyDeleteAs well as the years, 10-4 :)
DeleteSo true Brie! This time on earth is just a flash in the pan but the long line we are following in Christ goes on forever.
DeleteGlory Praise and Honor to Thee Redeemer King! and thanks to my entire JC Family for all of your prayers. Yet again with God's help and your prayers, I feel like Aladdin riding high above it all being carried on His Carpet.
ReplyDeleteIn all of the above, I give thanks and Glory to God for all His Goodness, which include you, my JC brothers and sisters.
As it often happens, Yesterday's life situations prepared me well for today's devotion:
Continue on this path with Me, enjoying My Presence even in adversity. I AM always before you, as well as alongside you. See Me beckoning to you: Come! Follow Me. The One who goes ahead of you, opening up the way for you, is the Same One who stays close to you and always holds your hand. Amen
Larry's unemployment claim was finally settled and clearly explained by SG, a very very nice and competent person.
AND
I received this from IN, the assisted living leasing agent: Your Brother has been approved. When would he like to schedule his move in date :)
Thanks you Jesus! Thanks You JC Prayer Warrior Family!
The Double VICTORY THANKSGIVING Dance is in order before HIS next intercession, i.e., Jesus communicating the move to my brother in a way my brother accepts it. Stay tuned with me. I am so excited to see what Jesus does and how He goes about it! I'm sure it will be better than anything I could ever ask for, dream of, or even imagine.
Humming, He's Got The Whole World In His Hands, and adding all of your names to every stanza I hum. Praying Blessings now and forevermore.
Amen Brie for answered prayers. Just read through 3/5 posts God is absolutely amazing!!!!
DeleteI have walked the road you and Kathy and many others are on with my dad who had alzheimer's, my mother in law who was declining in her physical health and other love ones. God will guide you because you seek his guidance. I count on him doing it for myself and all the fun intracite parts of my unique situation. My sister brought dinner for us last night and she said "At the woman's meeting I asked for them to pray for you. That you have 6 people in your home and everyone is handicapped including yourself and you do it all". I wasn't sure how to respond so I said thank you for the prayers. I wanted to say thank you for dinner and pointing out why I walk around in circles trying to figure out what I'm suppose to do. Falling asleep as I type and I still need to pray with 2 kids. Love to all
Hallelujah Brie. Another wonderful victory in Jesus Christ! God is good. God is great. God is so good to us. Peace be with you and Larry and God bless 🙏.
DeletePTL! Brie, celebrating & doin' the dance with you, Larry & brother. God is good! Hallelujah!
DeleteThats great Brie! I raise my Hallelujah here! Your faith and wisdom is a blessing and Yes, God is so Good!
DeleteGLORY and PRAISE to the KING!
DeleteThe song says: "VICTORY belongs to JESUS"!!!
So if you are His, it belongs to you too! Thanking God for your family Brie.
Maplewood NJ
Hallelujah! Thank You Jesus for two victories and more answered prayers. So happy Brie! Rejoice and be glad in this new day because we serve a good and faithful God and we are taken care of!!
DeletePraise praise praise Him!!!
DeleteLord, you are my God;
I will exalt you and praise your name,
for in perfect faithfulness
you have done wonderful things,
things planned long ago.
Psalm 25:1
I raise a hallelujah for all these answered prayers and the answers yet to come!
DeleteThanks All,
Deletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awkO61T6i0k
My Full Glass of Hallelujah is lifted high!
I have been asked to share this prayer request with JC Warriors. This is the only information I have and I quote. I will share future updates on Marlas condition.
ReplyDelete"Glenna's sister Marla fell and in a medical coma at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky following brain surgery and seizures. We are looking to God for a miracle. Thank you for your prayers."
Praying now Sassy Mom!
DeleteFather, please help Marla. Place Your healing hands on her and wake her up from this coma. May Your gift of a miracle be seen by the world. Comfort, strengthen, and place peace in Glenna's heart while she is enduring this time. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.
DeletePraying SassyMom for Marla. May the Lord use this coma to have the sweetest communion with this dear girl & to awake remembering every detail, and the His touch of healing upon her injury. Amen.
DeleteJoining in prayer for Maria to Jehovah Rapha! He is able! I cover her this moment and trust in the One true God to grant her healing and restoration, in Jesus' name!
DeleteMaplewood NJ
Joining in all prayers for Marla that the Great Physician is already healing all the weaknesses in her brain and will wake her up and bring her to a full recovery in His perfect timing. Thank you Father in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
DeletePray with me as I go to get my car today. May it work well until the new car gets here, may God provide fuel and may God be with us as we ride in it
ReplyDeleteFather, please help Min Ahadi with all her transportation issues. Help lift her up above life's circumstances and place Your perfect peace in her heart. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.
DeleteHave been & will continue to hold you & the car in prayer Min Ahadi🙏🥰
DeleteThank you Father for providing a wonderful car and fuel for our dear sister Min Ahadi! Bless her and guide always.
DeleteContinued prayers for your positive outcomes, Min Ahadi!
DeletePraise the Lord ! Just reached home, the car didn't overheat at all. I have realised that the car parts are worn out and I am praying for wisdom on the next steps. I have faith that a new orange car is on the way.
DeleteThank You Jesus. Praise the Lord continually and always 🙏.
ReplyDeleteJesus whispers to us here in JC with: "Continue on this path with Me, enjoying Presence even in adversity. I am always before you, as well as alongside you." Today, Saturday morning, it begins. A two shot injection twice a day of a drug that triggers your immune system in to "hyper-drive." Then on Tuesday through probably Thursday, they will collect stem cells for the transplant procedure at the end of the month.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing what they are doing with the chemistry and knowledge of these drugs, and what by comparison to Jesus' time here on earth are truly "miracles." Further, it is comforting to know that God exists outside time and has been with me and you holding our hands with no limitations, like we have within the constraints of time and thus ever-decaying bodies. I've already experienced miracles of healing, and am thankful for the powerful prayers from all of you on my behalf.
My biopsy results were excellent and showed significant reduction in the disease and thus the transplant is a "go" provided I stay healthy and sufficient stem cells are collected. Praying here for Norah's husband to show minimal progression and that treatment will be simply a reintroduction to one of the many new miracle drugs developed since he was first diagnosed. I also pray for all the needs mentioned here over the past few days. God is able and willing, may we see His hand heal those needs. In Him we pray. AMEN.
Madfox you don’t know me but I know you and all of this beautiful JC family for 2 years now. Someday I’ll share my story. I want you to know that I pray for you daily and think of you often. You are an amazing man and I just love your sense of humor and your love for Jesus and complete trust in Him. Keep that positive attitude and I’ll keep praying for you 🙏🙏🙏
DeleteJoy, we would love to hear your story. Thank you for the prayers you have sent up to the heavens for us. God bless you dear one🥰
DeleteAmen and THANKS to the King!!! He who started the good work, is sure to complete it!!!! We give Him the PRAISE!!
DeleteMaplewood NJ
Rejoicing in you MadFox and your good report! Now we move forward together - all of us here and walking with our Lord's hand. Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow.
DeleteAnd we have a sister Joy! Welcome to your writing here whatever you feel like sharing when you're ready. I have prayed for the "unknown" and "the one who nobody is praying for" sometimes because I knew there were some of you out there. God Bless you all!
Joining in prayer Madfox and for Norah’s DH and all facing the unknown and uncertain in this day. Praying you sense God’s presence in amazing and precious ways. You are beloved!!
DeleteYes, Joy, MadFox is an amazing man and God has great plans for him! God is lifting him up to very high places! All glory and praise to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Amen!
DeleteDear MadFox. Holding you always in my heart and prayers. Go forward in Christ with your treatment and know you are surrounded by His love and peace and all of our prayers and love. I believe you will see many more miracles because you seek Him with a sincere heart of true trust and faith. Much love.
DeleteWelcome dear Joy! Thanks for all your prayers. God bless and heal you in all things.
So Good to hear MadFox. Keeping you in prayer and Praising God for His Goodness, Grace, Mercy and Healing bringing our dear Brother MadFox through it all, trusting in Jesus and Trusting in God!
DeleteWelcoming Joy to the posting side of town!
Our Dear Joy, thanks for praying for us. We pray for You and all the anonymouses, unknowns, and silent partners in this JC Prayer Warroom.
Feel free to treat it like a buffet: Come in as often as you want, feast on as much as you want, take as many free refills as you want, try anything that interests you if you want, and leave whatever you don't want. We are always open 24/7, night and day, and happy to serve up heaping amounts of Faith. Hope, and Love!
Blessings to all as they enter in to pray and leave out to practice! Amen
Just imagine that this AMAZING BUFFET in all its splendor pales in comparison to the banquet feast that awaits us in HEAVEN! All are welcome, thank you Jesus!!!
DeleteThanks for the update on your journey, Mad🦊. Staying and praying with you along the way.
Thanks for sharing MadFox . I pray that God will bring healing to your body . Remain strong and focus on Him .
DeleteMadfox praying and praising on your behalf! Thank you Jesus!!
DeleteI raise my Hallelujah Glass up high, because in this room, there is no need for masks nor social distance, although frequent cleansings are still required. Love To ALL of you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
DeleteHumbled by the kindness and the prayers that have been said, and continue to be offered on my behalf. Godspeed to you all. Amen.
DeleteHolding you tight in my love and prayers dear MadFox! Thanking God for His faithfulness in your life and health.
Delete"Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105).
ReplyDeleteLoving Father, You have set a path before me with the option to follow You or not. I choose to follow in that path and listen to Your voice, because I know listening to You is essential to walking with You. It is also the most important thing I can do for the sake of my eternal soul, heeding Your Word and acting on it. When I make mistakes, please allow me to experience godly sorrow—the kind that leads me away from bad decisions and back to You. Give me the courage to repent when I mess up, and to choose abundant life.
Father, I know You require me to obey You as part of my trusting You. I trust You completely to meet all my needs in Your perfect timing, and according to Your methods. I will continue to obey You by the power and help of the Holy Spirit, believing that as I do, You will take care of me. Thank You for JESUS, the name that is above all names! Amen.
"Then Jesus spoke again saying, I am the light if the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light" (John 8:12).
Blessings and Peace.
Maplewood NJ
Sweet Maplewood, Your beautiful and heartfelt prayer echoes the words in my heart. Praying it with you dear Sister. Have a blessed day.
DeleteMadFox, rejoicing with you dear brother for every step of victory the Lord has taken you through. You have experienced first hand His goodness, faithfulness & love. He knew already the journey that you have to travel through. He has to be so pleased with how you have trusted and kept the faith as you & He walk in it. Through the sharing of your plight you have inspired us. I for one count it an honor & a privilege to pray for each procedure you have endured. Keep running the race brother. We cheer you on.
ReplyDeleteHumbled by the kindness and the prayers that have been said, and continue to be offered on my behalf. Godspeed to you all. Amen.
DeleteGod continues His blessings on All of His Believers.. God Speed, MadFox... praying for you and yours.
ReplyDeleteHumbled by the kindness and the prayers that have been said, and continue to be offered on my behalf. Godspeed to you all. Amen.
DeleteThank you to everyone who answered my request yesterday. I asked God to provide answers through you since I can't audibly hear God. I got exactly what I needed and can now know the Christian way to move forward. Thank you with all my heart to you and to our great and awesome Lord. Love to you and continued prayers for your concerns dear JC family. Love, Kathy
ReplyDeleteRejoicing with you dear Kathy!!
DeleteAmen! Blessings to you Waiting
DeleteWonderful Kathy! Love and prayers to you dear Sister!
DeleteGood to hear your great God Guided news, our dear dear Kathy. Proceed with God and He will provide the light for your Journey, some days, it will be just enough light for the step you are on. But His Light is still Light. We have your back in prayer. Thanks for your prayers as well, and for all the helpful prayers you give to our blindness when we are trying to get across noisy busy intersections. Blessing to you and yours dear sister. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
DeleteKathy so thankful that you received your answer from God through this JC family, your family, the body of Christ. Sometimes he whispers in our ear and other times he speaks through his children to his child. I'm united with you and trusting that he hears your prayers and will guide you through each step. Sometimes we fall into the roll of "parenting" our parents as they take on the roll of a "teenager or toddler". This is a very delicate place to be, because they are always first and foremost our parent. They have well of wisdom and life experience within themselves that they can draw from and other times they can't dip into that well. As the Holy Spirit guides you He will help you treat your mom with respect and dignity. Always reminding her how much you love her and of the wonderful times you've shared together.
DeleteMy dad loved us, but he didn't know how to parent. He was often very harsh to the point of being mean or not present at all. I spent my younger years afraid of him, but as he became older, weaker more vulnerable I was able to see the man he truly was. I learned what a kind man he was and that he parented the way he had been parented. The day he passed away while I was pushing his wheelchair I leaned over and kissed his neck and told him what a good Daddy he was and how much I loved him. He patted my hand and said "you're a good one too" I asked him "a good one what?" His response was "a good one of those". We laughed together ( I'm sure you can tell I cherish this memory). I knew he hadn't always been the best dad but there was no reason to remind him of that. Walking out our faith and being Christ like to others is putting them first and not needing the last word. I don't want to imply that you and your mom have a strained relationship, but as you have shifting roles even within a given day things can get complicated and it's easy to stumble on a pebble when we slip off the rock for even one moment. This is a reminder to myself as I walk through my day. Thank you Lord all praise and honor to you!
Amen TERRI and thanks for the reminder. When my Dad was on his deathbed, I tried to process forgiveness with him. Before I got the second Please forgive me for...sentence out of my mouth, he put his finger on that Angel indent above my upper lip, and said "SHHH! It's all forgiven" One of my treasured inheritances many decades later!
DeleteKathy in Waiting, I just finished reading and "sitting with" (as our Dear Brother BOB would say) Psalm 37, one of our JC Bible Readings for today. You and your Mom were in my heart throughout, along with all of us who are in role reversal seasons, when I read, "When you are delighted with The Lord, then He will give you all of your heart's desires. TRUST AND COMMIT EVERYTHING you do to The Lord. TRUST HIM TO HELP YOU DO IT and HE WILL!"
DeleteI am praying for God's Choicest Blessings to reign over all of our situation and inside all of our circumstances. Amen
Brie, thank you! You once again brought tears of joy to my eyes. God calls us into different rolls at different times. Now my session is raining my beautiful grandchildren. My prayer is to cherish each day with them.
DeleteNow my season is raising my beautiful grandchildren
DeleteThank you all! Your words are gems on my path and smiles in my heart. God Bless you!
DeleteLove the prayer . Especially what stood out for me when I sin may seek God for restoration .
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed Sunday! Let us all keep trusting in the Lord and doing good!
ReplyDeletePraying for a sweet end to our trip. Leaning on His Word and promises. After Church we’re leaving our son and his family early to return home. Our other son’s family is coming over today for dinner. I’m sure I can get a nice dinner made.
Thank You Father for leading us safely home and guiding everything perfectly.
Travel mercies. Enjoy your wonderful dinner with your family. God bless 🙏.
DeleteThanks dear Janet! God bless you in all things sweet sister!
Deletehttps://youtu.be/n_aVFVveJNs
ReplyDeleteWonderful song dear Sister. And so true. There's not a day ahead that He hasn't seen. He's prepared all our tomorrows. So we should not be afraid. Trust in Him and follow hard after righteousness.
DeleteExistence, which is the continuous
ReplyDeletefunction of the body, is something which
everyone experiences. However, genuine
living is living a life in Christ . Living is more
than existing; it is growing and knowing the
Giver of life. Once He is a part of your life,
you can live!
Christ is spoken of as the Bread of Life -
our nutrition , our sustenance. He not only
gives us life, but He helps us to continue on
in it. When things or people are not there,
Christ, our life, is still within us.
Job, after all that he had was swept away,
cursed the day of his birth, wisning he had
never tasted life. God used this to show Job
that life exists in Him, not in things around
us.
Too, Jeremiah lamented the day of his
birth because people did not respond to
God's word. This was used of God to show
Jeremiah that life is not from the people
around him, but in God Himself. Jonah
experienced much the same lesson.
Job, Jeremiah, and Jonah all found that
life, real living, does not come · from anything
external; it comes with a genuine relation ship with God.
" ... I am come that they might have life,
and that they might have it more abundant ly, ' ' (John 10: 10).
Amen, good word Min Ahadi. In Him we live and move and have our being.
DeleteFor to me, to live is Christ, to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21).
DeleteThank you so much for that Dear Min! May we all open our hearts to His guiding Hand leading us to a more abundant life in His presence. A life that gives Him glory.
DeletePraise God always. Thank You Jesus.
ReplyDeleteAmen! Always and ever! Praise and Gratitude.
Delete** Joy, who wrote above, did you share your story? please do or let us know the day you did! **
ReplyDeleteTo the JC prayer warriors. I have been reading along each day with little to add of late. Praising God for your prayers and others as I remain in remission, a miracle of modern science, the intelligence of skilled docs and their team, and, of course, our Lord. It is hard to believe in this covid era of fractured time, that on Tuesday, I head to Emory, the Multiple Myeloma experts, for the one year "poke and prod" evaluation of my stem transplant and the maintenamce program.
With my case requiring weekly infusions, it is necessary to collect blood and test it prior to that week's dose of miracle drugs. An unique blessing is that requirement thereby allows the team to see if any markers have "gone astray." And since they haven't, our expectation is that the annual review post transplant will be favorable.
So, in the end, the higher risk diagnosis has allowed for a better weekly barometer of the disease status then a quarterly or even one year "gotcha!" appt. God meets our needs sometimes in the most mysterious ways. I certainly didn't consider myself lucky with the diagnosis but given my Type A need to know personality, it is so much more manageable going into these tests with some idea of where I stand! This is NOT to say that the results can't be negative - as those with cancer or their family know - relapses can occur unexpectedly IN ANY day. week, or month.
But our hope in Christ is that we can all muster each day, sick or well, to the promise of God being with us throughout all time and space. "... Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Mathew 28:20. Praying for each of the needs here and hoping that the words here comfort or help in your journey today. Godspeed. Amen
MadFox! Thanks for your prayers my brother. I am thanking our loving Father for His continued faithfulness in your treatment and health and I’m believing with our family here that all will go well with your annual tests and treatment! Rest assured you are in the best of Hands.
DeletePRAYING always for you, our dear brother friend in Christ, Madfox. I continue to be amazed by the faith in GOD that exudes from the poster children, regardless of the trials.
Delete… We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet Your love is way too much to give us lesser things
… 'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
… We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe
… When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not our home
… What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise
Songwriters: Laura Story
That is very moving dear Brie. The trials and tears bring us closer to Him. He allows things to happen to strengthen our faith and draw us near.
DeleteI really love this song. Laura Story has such a sweet voice too. Thanks my dear sister!
DeleteSo happy for your summary of events, Madfox, and praying and expecting for continued Great results in the measurement of God’s healing work. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI am always so uplifted by the humility, honesty, openness and vulnerability (the good kind) of the writer of the "My Prayer". I too, as a father, fall short in parenting. It took me a long time to stumble upon the scriptures in the New Testament that follow the Old Testament Commandment, "Honor your father and mother". Jesus instructs that "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother . . . Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger (or exasperate them)." Ephesians 6: 1-4. "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged (or cause them to lose heart)". Colossians 3:20-21. I can honestly say that I have many times fallen short of these very clear instructions. Raising children is challenging. No one knows better than God, the Father almighty. How many times have I provoked them to anger, caused them to lose heart, be discouraged or exasperated them. Conversely, Jesus shows us another way that I try to follow, even now as an "older" parent. Continued Blessings to you all and to the Payton Family.
ReplyDeleteWe all fall down, yet we get up and move on with God’s Help. We pray He makes the crooked ways straight for the remainder of our and our children's journey, and more importantly, we and they know Him, Love Him, and serve Him, in Jesus' Name. AMEN.
DeleteDear Anonymous, As a parent I also fall short because I'm a bit of a backseat driver and I must leave all the parenting to my children because they are now the parents and they're doing a great job. We must not lose heart. Our Heavenly Father is a great Father but He is perfect, while we are human and imperfect. The best we can do is love our children and do our best not to provoke them to anger, and we should remember to give them room to grow, and also praise them for their good works. I pray they'll all have a strength of faith because that's the most important thing of all. Thanks for the blessings!
Delete"and more importantly, we and they know Him, Love Him, and serve Him" - "and we should remember to give them room to grow, and also praise them for their good works. I pray they'll all have a strength of faith because that's the most important thing of all" AMEN!
DeletePlease pray for Rick. His heart just went back into A-Fib. Thank you 😊💗🙏
ReplyDeleteJeanne - Joining in prayers to Jehovah Rapha our great physician for supernatural healing.
DeleteThank you dear Brie and Sassy Mom. Your prayers mean everything to me. We pray for each other. Much love and gratitude.
DeleteContinue on this path with Me, enjoying My Presence even in adversity;
ReplyDeleteToday's devotion has me singing BLESSINGS by Laura Story, again today.
Such a beautiful song. Wish I could hear you singing it dear Brie!!! Let your light shine. Praying Keith's recovery is going well. Get some rest now.
DeleteDear family, praying for all requests and thanking our Lord for answers and victories. Strength and healing to those we have come to know...Mad 🦊, Rick, Jeannie, Brie and Larry and Keith. A simple thank you to our heavenly FATHER is on my lips.
ReplyDeleteThank you dear Audra. Praying for your comfort and healing.
ReplyDeleteGiving thanks to my Jesus for blessing me with 90 years of life. Sending love and thanks to my beloved JC Family for joining my 90th birthday celebration with many happy wishes for my HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY. This is the best birthday ever! I have been dubbed "Party Animal" because I have been partying all week. I received greetings from "All my kids" who call me mom. Flowers, visits, phone calls, text messages and gift cards. Pastor Greg surprised me on the day of my birthday with a visit when he came by to sing Happy Birthday to me on his way home from work. My daughter Dr. Denise asked me to stop by her office at 12:30 the day before my birthday. When I arrived her office was decorated with Happy Birthday streamers. My fur baby, Chanel was covered with pink "Happy Birthday Grandma" note stickers on her white as snow fur and joined the party wagging her little bushy tail as fast as it would wag. The employees surprised me with a delicious apple pie baked by the office manager, covered with a big scoop of ice cream. On Saturday the day after my birthday my daughter made 2:00 PM reservations for a late afternoon lunch and surprised me by inviting 10 of my oldest dearest still living friends. I told the oldest one who is 84 "You are next!" and I'm hanging around to celebrate your 90th BD. We left the restaurant and went to my daughters home to open my gifts and enjoyed a 3 layer birthday cake baked by my daughter Denise who is a gourmet cook. The party lasted til 6:00 PM and I was exhausted, still exhausted when I went to church Sunday and received more birthday greetings. BTW no bungee jumping on this birthday like I did at 86 years old on birthday cruise.
ReplyDeleteOh, Sassy Mom, you are so loved!!! Great Blessings and Love to you for many, many more years! I place you In His Grip of Grace! JJ
DeleteYou got just the Birthday you deserved! So much love and good friends and family, and great food, and cake, and surprises, and your little dog all dressed up, flowers, visits, phone calls, and presents. Was praying for special Birthday blessings. God heard our prayers. That blessed me because you are so loved! Loved by us, your dear ones, and loved by God. Joining dear JJ in praying for many more happy years "in His Grip of Grace". Amen.
DeleteRomans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Sassy Mom, I'm so glad to hear that you had such a wonderful birthday! You are an inspiration and encouragement to me and many others. Thank you for letting your light shine bright in the world. May you be blessed with many more birthdays! In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏. God bless.
DeleteWow, Wow! SassyMom I was exhausted just reading your post & I'm only 75! Whew, did you ever celebrate! You go girl🥰. 90 is the new 60, so party on! So, so happy that you were surrounded by all of your loved ones. You are truly blessed! We love you 😍💞
DeleteGod bless you Sassy Mom!!! What a gift for us all. MadFox said it perfectly- I can’t wait to show my 89 yo mom ( who sounds a lot like Sassy Mom and Madfox’s MIL) this thread. December she turns 90 and joins this incredible “club”. What a gift that generation gives us all❤️
DeleteSweet, Sassy Mom- happiest of birthday wishes to you. I’ve so enjoyed “getting to know you” through this blog. Your posts and faith are beautiful reminders and examples for all of us that visit this blog. I’m so happy you had a wonderful birthday weekend and wish you many many more.
DeleteSC Anonymous
Oh what blessedness, oh, what Joy Divine, Sassy Mom. I am so thankful to hear you received some of what you so freely give to us - Joy and Blessings and Faith and Strength and Openess and Love, so much love and so much more... May the party continue! With Much Love and Many Prayers for the next 90 years and beyond! In Jesus' Name. Amen!
DeleteI love that you were so well celebrated, Sassy Mom, by all who know, appreciate, and love you! You've obviously been a joy and a meaningful person in their lives...just as you've been to all of us here. How blessed are we to have gotten to know you and witness your walk and intense love for God...always sharing your words of wisdom about God's Word and life in general. Continued blessings for good health, Sassy Mom!
DeleteThe more I read today's devotion, the more I know it is fulfilled in your life Sassy Mom, beginning with, "Continue on this Path with Me...through, "your best efforts are trusting Me and living close to Me."
DeleteThanks for setting a great example for us 60 and 70 somethings to emulate when we grow up! With Much Love and Many Prayers. In Jesus' Name. Amen!
Sassy Mom! Coincidentally, my MIL turned 90 a few weeks ago. Was so proud that all our kids went to see her with us to celebrate for the entire weekend. You and she at 90 are remarkable women. I wrote this about her and think it applies to you, so will share here as it fits as to how your generation has impacted us all.
ReplyDeleteMadFox's MIL and Sassy Mom, are unheralded leaders, 90 years young in Feb 2023. Most folks who know or know of these remarkable women are amazed at how well they live life. MadFox MIL still visits friends, runs errands, and drives to attend church regularly. My observations of her humble LEADERSHIP over four decades can be summarized as:
1. Measure your words. Always a generous listener and a person with a kind word to all.
2. Be dependable. If you say you’ll do something – DO IT! She always has.
3. Keep active. Volunteer, meet with friends, read, travel, but don’t be idle. At 90, she’s still a very active and busy lady.
4. Don’t complain. I really can’t think of a time that she has about anything, including her own hardships and tragedies.
5. Love people unconditionally. She surely has to her friends, family, and to all she meets.
GREAT TRAITS to EMULATE for any business executive, manager, employee, or Christian. And you better believe that I consider myself extremely blessed and grateful to have her as my mother-in-law. Yes, you read correctly... my mother-in-law! She is quite the consummate, quiet, humble Christian leader.
Thank you Father for the blessings of Sassy Mom and my MIL... 90 years of Christian leadership as women of faith. Godspeed. Praying for more years of witnessing YOUR servant hearts. Amen.
Amen Madfox 🙏.
DeleteMadfox, Thank you for introducing your beloved young MIL to JC group. We are blessed beyond words.
DeleteThanks for allowing us to meet your MIL, MadFox, and for introducing us to 5 of her great traits. May we seek to emulate them. Much Love and Many Prayers in Jesus' Name. Amen!
DeleteThanks dear MadFox! What an amazing woman your MIL is! Just like our wonderful Sassy Mom! I felt so much love and admiration in your words. May God bless them both with many more good years filled with God’s blessings and good health.
DeleteYes please, I'll have what Sassy Mom and MIL to Mad 🦊 has. There by the grace of God go I.🙏
DeleteYou will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:11). Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men. (Psalm 31:19).
ReplyDeleteJanet - Echoing your words.
ReplyDeleteTHE BLESSING by Laura Story
ReplyDeletehttps://youtu.be/XQan9L3yXjc
Thanks dear Brie! I love that song. Just sent the link to my friend who is having major surgery on her uterus on Thursday. She has endometriosis and many related issues. Her name is Jessie. Thanks for your prayers. Holding her tight in mine. Much love.
Delete"Continue on this path with Me, enjoying My Presence even in adversity."
ReplyDeletePsalm 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord; And He will give you the desires of your heart.”
The EHV ( biblegateway) puts it this way "Take pleasure in the Lord, and he will grant your heart’s desires".
Taking 'pleasure' in the Lord gives me a better understanding.
Take pleasure in His company, enjoy Him.
Spend time with Him, not just in blocks of time, but throughout the day (or night if you're a night person).
Talk to Him about any and every thing.
Sing to Him (He's listening to you heart, not your voice)
Recognize that through the Holy Spirit, He IS our constant companion, never absent.
Listen more than you speak. (That's a hard one for me)
Think in human terms concerning the one who is your spouse. Before you married, you spent time together, talked, sometimes just sat, maybe hand in hand. Told each other your hopes, dreams, desires. Wrote love letters. Ran up phone bills. Enjoyed each others company. When parted, couldn't wait to be together again.
What we have with our wife or husband or girlfriend or boyfriend is a love relationship.
What we have with our Lord is a love relationship, only far far deeper, purer, and complete than any other relationship.
Take delight, take pleasure, enjoy Him daily.
' I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever' https://youtu.be/ChsHo4KLUJ4
Thanks dear Peter! I always say my husband is my one true love but God is my first and greatest love. He knows and understands me so much better than Rick does I’m blessed and encouraged that He is my best friend, my great God, and my loving Father. I do talk to Him about everything and feel His presence throughout my day. I couldn’t get through anything without Him. What a Friend we have in Jesus. I’m so thankful.
DeleteHe IS our constant companion, Peter, yes! How blessed are we?! Regarding singing...I'm so glad you said He is listening to our heart not our voices because I am not a singer but enjoy singing worship songs when I'm by myself. Only God could love a singing voice like mine, lol.
ReplyDeleteAnd mine too! NJS
DeleteFor us...Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear, just sing, sing your song!...
Mine too, NJS! His has blessed me with many talents, but singing is not one of them. Grateful that He knows my heart though.
DeleteYour singing is beautiful to Him because He created you. He listens for your voice.
ReplyDeleteGood Monday morning everyone! What a blessing it has been to start the week by reading all of your encouraging posts.
ReplyDeleteSassy Mom- so glad to hear your birthweek was a huge success. You deserve to be pampered and celebrated. Keep partying!
MadFox- thank you for including us in your MIL’s birthday celebrations too. Sounds like a great time was had by all. Cheers!
Peter- in reading your post about ‘love relationships’, it reminded me of something I read recently. Fr Robert Barron described the path of love is willing the good in someone else. He explained how we have relationships and show love for people we may not even know. AKA compassion. Random acts of kindness, if you will. Which in turn enhances our love relationship with our Heavenly Father. Thanks for sharing!
That was wonderful Suzanne! Thanks! Amen! We share God’s compassion with others. His indwelling Spirit guides us to care more about others than ourselves all for God’s glory.
ReplyDeleteOh, Dear Sassy Mom, what a blessing to read about your Birthday!! I don't know why I'd be surprised - though I have to tell you, I'm still reeling over you 86th when you bunji jumped!! HAHAHA. Your are a stellar Woman of God & ai got to read about 2, after hearing about MadFox's MIL. SO VERY THANKFUL.
ReplyDeleteMy computer was hacked this morning so it has been a day & I'm posting from my phone. Just couldn't go to bed without stopping on to read & how blessed I am that I did!
God's richest blessings to Sassy Mom & all of you Saints. Love & prayers to each of you.
❤️🙏⚓🥰
Norah
Holding our dear Norah and her Best Man in my heart and in my prayers. Thanking God that He will guide this day and give them a good outcome, and cover them and their family with His peace. All will be well because He is in charge.
ReplyDeleteThank You dear Father for this in the Name of Christ Jesus our Risen Lord. Amen.
Today’s devotion is all about trusting in the Lord and living close to Him. We are staying in His presence and in His loving care because we trust Him. Rest in Him who cares for you. Trust that He is answering our prayers and His faithfulness will continue to shine like the sun. Thank You Jesus.
Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Sleep has evaded me, Dear Jeanne, but I m turning in, regardless. Thank you, my dear friend/sister in Christ. So very tired just thinking about my Best Man's procedure. God, be with him!
DeleteUp praying 🙏 and continuing in prayer for your Best Man and for you Norah, our dear sweet sister friend in Christ. In Jesus' Name. AMEN! ❤️
DeleteYESTERDAY'S UPDATE: Thanks be to God for all of your prayers for me to make friends with the problem, I named Bertha.
ReplyDeleteTESTimony: God's Holy Spirit took the wheel, steered, and guided the conversation!
At first it was awkward with a sensation of defensiveness hanging heavy in the air before any words were said.
I was "nudged" to ask,
How can we help you with my brother's hygiene? (We were both stunned, silenced, and thoughtful about that question.)
She mentioned a brand of razors she preferred. We promised to get them, which we did.
We gave her a spreadsheet listing the tasks he needed her to do, and to check off.
We let her know we have to be his voice, since he no longer has one.
She played music as she performed the items on the list. I mentioned the name of one of the songs my brother really really likes.
(It was Good Morning Heavenly Father by Gladys Knight and the Pips.) She found it and played it for him and when she heard it she smiled and hugged me.
Thank You Holy Spirit for opening the conversation door!
At the end of the visit, she thanked us.
I thanked The Master.
I thanked The Savior.
I thanked God
Time will tell when things improve.
I pray and believe they will, thanks to your prayers.