LAUGHING
Today's reading: Genesis 16-19

"Then Abraham bowed to the ground, but he laughed to himself in disbelief. How could I become a father at the age of one hundred?" Genesis 17:17 NLT
"And since Abraham and Sarah were both very old, and Sarah was long past the age of having children, she laughed silently to herself..." Genesis 18 11-12 NLT

How does God like it when we laugh at Him?

Does He take it as a personal challenge?

Does He see it as us throwing down the gauntlet?

Does He see it as using the toe of your tennis shoe to draw a line in the sand?

Does He consider it a double-dog dare?

In your life what are you thinking He cannot do?

What problem is too big?

What issues are too messy?

What answers that you are seeking, miracles you're needing to claim or missions you're being called to accomplish that you see as laughable?

Watch out-- you've quite possibly pushed Him too far! He may have to prove it to you!

YOU CAN STOP
Today's reading: Matthew 11-13

I've looked for a lot of things in this almost forty-year journey. I've looked for my car keys, looked for my favorite lip gloss, looked for my cell phone on more occasions than I care to think about.

I've looked for that special diet that'll work in less than twenty-four hours. The one that allows me to continue eating the way I like and requires no exercise.

I've looked for that perfect pair of blue jeans. The ones that fit just right, feel just right, wash up well and have the mis-labeled tag a few sizes smaller than my actual size.

I've looked for the potluck recipe that'll knock the socks off every member of my church family with one bite.

I've looked, and looked, and looked, for that magical anti-wrinkle cream that I'm pretty sure will take away all the crow's feet and fine lines overnight.

Oh, don't laugh--you've spent plenty of time looking yourself...

For that knight-in-shining-armor. Here's a clue: I've found the last one--and am raising the next!

For that perfect church. And pastor. And set of deacons. And Sunday School teacher. And music minister. And door greeter. Need I continue?

For that magic pill that will erase ugly pasts, set into motion brilliantly bright futures and fill you with patience in the present.

Well, you and I are going to be looking for a long time for a few things--but not the most important, most relevant, most life-changing, most amazing thing there is...

Jesus Christ.

"Are you really the Messiah we've been waiting for, or should we keep looking for someone else?" Matthew 11:3 NLT

NO OBLIGATION
Today's reading: Romans 7-8

What a relief!

Really, what I've read during my quiet time provided the breath of fresh air I so desperately needed. The incentive to keep trying. The 'prize' at the end of the race seems, as of this morning, seems more attainable.

"So, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation whatsoever to do what your sinful nature urges you to do." Romans 8:12 NLT

All the sins I've been struggling with...

All the temptations I've been staring at...

All the opportunities to act in an ungodly manner...

All the time I've had the monumental desire to spew just what I was thinking...

I am, and it tells me right here in His Word, under no obligation at all to follow through with any of it!

I hold in my hand, my heart and my mind the choice to be victorious over satan's ploys!

And, dear friend, so do you!

NO OBLIGATION
Today's reading: Romans 7-8

What a relief!

Really, what I've read during my quiet time provided the breath of fresh air I so desperately needed. The incentive to keep trying. The 'prize' at the end of the race seems, as of this morning, seems more attainable.

"So, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation whatsoever to do what your sinful nature urges you to do." Romans 8:12 NLT

All the sins I've been struggling with...

All the temptations I've been staring at...

All the opportunities to act in an ungodly manner...

All the time I've had the monumental desire to spew just what I was thinking...

I am, and it tells me right here in His Word, under no obligation at all to follow through with any of it!

I hold in my hand, my heart and my mind the choice to be victorious over satan's ploys!

And, dear friend, so do you!

JUST A GLIMPSE
Today's reading: Isaiah 18-22

"In that day the Lord will make himself known to the Egyptians..." Isaiah 19:21 NLT

You and are are falsely believing God is required to show us where it is He's working. We have bought into the lie that God must show us in miraculous and mysterious ways that He is still in control.

He's not required to do anything of the sort!

He, in His knowledge, is willing, at just the right time and just the right place in our life, to show us a glimpse of Himself.

He is in the air around us. He is in the sky above us. He is in the ground below our feet. He is in the make-up of the DNA that courses through our bodies with every beat of our hearts.

And when He will be most glorified, He chooses to make Himself known to us.

Will we notice?

HE HAS IT
Today's reading: Job 7-8

"As for strength, he has it..." Job 9:19 NLT

Is strength what you're lacking today?

The strength to continue?

The strength to get out of bed?

The strength to take the same stand you've been taking--again today?

The strength to believe?

The strength to love?

The strength to live?

Our bodies tire. Our minds attempt to defeat. Our thoughts become clouded with doubt, fear and utter despair. Our efforts seem worthless and unnoticed. Our abilities seem lacking. Our best intentions unappreciated. Our church family fails us. Our pastors don't select the right Scripture to inspire and convince us. Our mountains seem to grow higher, wider and more treacherous overnight. Our friends take sides: some encourage and prod, others lovingly mention it might be time to throw in the towel.

But, there remains hope...

Our God has all the strength you need to continue in the purpose He has for your life!

Tap into it. Hook up to it. Soak it in. Ask for it again, and again, and again.

"As for strength, he has it..." Job 9:19 NLT

BECAUSE OF YOU
Today's reading: Psalm 9-11

Normally, I read through the day's scripture the first time to be reading it. The second time around I try to acknowledge what it is God's trying to show me--what jumps out at me, what stops me in my tracks, what causes me to sit up a little straighter or curl up into a convicted ball of flesh.

But not this time. This time I was excited by what the first two verses said and couldn't go any farther with my reading or thinking!

"I will thank you, Lord, with all my heart. I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you..." Psalm 9:1-2 NLT

I will...because of You.

I will...because of You.

I will...because of You.

It's a decision to be made. It's a choice we're confronted with. It's a fork in the road we're traveling on.

What will you do with your freedom in the matter?

It's nothing to do with what you're enduring. It's nothing to do with what you're expecting. It's nothing to do with what you're led to believe will come to pass, what's promised you or what you've been taught in the pew.

We will because of Him.

HOW LONG?
Today's reading: Joshua 16-20

"Then Joshua asked them, How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the Lord, the God of your ancestors has given to you?" Joshua 18:3 NLT

I'll let you guess where I might go with this verse. Go ahead, read my mind. Ah, come on, go ahead and forecast what I'm thinking.

Could it be that I might ask you how long you're going to allow satan to keep you defeated in a battle that your Savior has already won?

Might I go the route of stating that you're going around empty-handed while satan sits atop your spoils, your blessings, your rewards?

Maybe I'll be so bold as to mention it might be time for you step up to the challenge satan is presenting you and step out on the faith our Father has a great track record with?

Or maybe after you read the verse for yourself, you'd already taken the first steps down the road I'm attempting you to travel!

FOR THEM
Today's reading: Genesis 12-15

There's nothing I like more than receiving gifts, accolades and pats on the back for a job well done.

Well, that's not true...there is one thing I like more than getting blessed myself, and that's seeing my son blessed, applauded and encouraged.

I think I'm a little like Abraham on that account.

"Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, I am going to give this land to your offspring! And Abram built an altar there to commemorate the Lord's visit." Genesis 12:7 NLT

After packing up all he owned. After saying good-byes to all his family and friends. After being told by the Lord to move, and to move a substantial distance away from all that was comfortable and known to him, now God's telling Abram that the blessing of land would go to his seed.

A seed he had yet to know. A child he had still to see born. A successor he had yet to even name.

Abram's desire that his child know the Lord was more important than anything the Lord might be willing to give himself.

And that's my desire.

I want to serve the Lord wholeheartedly and enthusiastically so I may be able to pass that on to my son. I want him to have a zeal for God. I want him to know God personally. I want my child to inherit any and all blessings God's got lined up for him to receive.

Oh, don't get me wrong--I want the blessings He has in store for me, too. But then again, our God's quite big enough to bless us both, isn't He?

SEEING HIM WITH NEW EYES
Today's reading: Matthew 8-10

"And Jesus answered, Why are you afraid? You have so little faith! Then he stood up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly all was calm. The disciples just sat there in awe. Who is this? they asked themselves. Even the wind and waves obey him!" Matthew 8:26-27 NLT

The same Jesus they had been traveling with day in and day out. The same Jesus they had watched heal broken people. The same Jesus they had listened to and trusted.

And this day He amazed them.

Will He do the same for you today?

We have seen Him work. We have felt His power. We have watched in awe and admiration as His plans, His timing and His ways were played out perfectly amidst a conflict. We have heard the testimonies. We have read the books. We have listened to the sermons. We have experienced His cleansing power...

But none of us know Him to the fullest extent still.

My prayer for today is that He do something in our lives that leave us breathless, amazed, in awe--and wanting more!

POWERLESS
Today's reading: Romans 5-6

"Our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin." Romans 6:6 NLT

As a child of God's, sin has no power in your life, if I read the verse correctly.

As a believer in Christ's saving grace, I am no longer a slave to sin, if I understood the meaning of this verse.

As a Bible-believing, blood-washed, faith-filled, sticking-with-God-no-matter-what kind of gal, who I was has died and I'm a new creation, according to the Scripture jumping off the page at me this morning.

Satan, sins, demons and temptations are powerless in my life. Unable. Incapable. Handcuffed. Helpless. Paralyzed. Weak. Hog-tied. Impotent.

What will I do with that knowledge? How will my living look different? What will I accomplish, defeat or rise above knowing what I know now? Knowing what He's done for me through His crucifixion?

What will you do/be/achieve/accomplish?

DON'T WORRY
Today's reading: Isaiah 12-17

"The Lord Almighty has sworn this oath: It will all happen as I have planned. It will come about according to my purposes." Isaiah 14:24 NLT

You're worrying about something. I can tell.

You have that look about you. Your brow is furrowed. The corners of your mouth remain in a downturned position. The glitter in your eyes has diminished.

I'll tell it to you straight: You have nothing to worry about!

God's got a plan. God's got you included in that plan. That plan will prosper you, not harm you and will glorify Him.

No one can thwart His plans. Nothing throws a kink into what He has purposed.

He's set this entire universe into order, He can surely see that His plans for you are carried out to completion!

DON'T I?
Today's reading: Job 5-6

"Don't I have a right to complain?" Job 6:5 NLT

I'd never noticed it before. I guess I'd overlooked it. Maybe I'd assumed he didn't do it, but he did. Quite possibly I'd thought it was sinful, arrogant and disgustingly ungodly. But it's there. It's really there!

Job complained.

Honestly, didn't you think he'd risen above that? I mean, there's a book named after him and all.

Then again, Job had gone through a lot. Why shouldn't he complain, wail, whine and moan?

There's nothing wrong with it, in its self.

But we never stop with just complaining, do we?

We complain, then we throw ourselves down on the ground like children.

We complain, then we begin wringing our hands in despair and fear.

We complain, then we throw in the towel.

We complain, then we begin criticizing, condemning and playing the role of Holy Spirit in the lives of those around us.

Another point to consider about Job's complaining--he was known for being a fine man, one filled with integrity, one who feared God and had nothing to do with evil. He was not known for complaining.

Ouch!

We can state our case. We can claim 'it's not fair'. We can whine and moan. But in the end, get up and praise Him. When you've spilled your guts, cried your eyes out and shouted until you're hoarse, continue on the journey He's marked for you. Go ahead, complain, if that's what you feel you need to do, but once it's out of your system, move on and up!

ME, LORD
Today's reading: Psalm 6-8

"...Save me because of your unfailing love." Psalm 6:4 NLT

I'll borrow David's words because I couldn't come up with any better ones myself.

You see, Lord, I cannot ask you to save me because of anything I've done, I've defeated, I've given up or I've committed to do.

I've made open-ended promises to you before, You know that.

I've vowed allegiance and dedication in the storm and failed to come through when the rainbow appeared.

I've talked big. I've walked tall. I've spoken out. I've gone up front and spoken before the crowd.

But I've also not spoken when I should have. I've stumbled and fallen. I've refused to take a stand when I could have pointed someone to You.

I've fasted, until my stomach growled.

I've taken hold of your promises, gathered up Your blessings in my arms and feasted on miracles.

But I've also refused to let go of a few things You've asked me to hand over. I've held tightly to some characteristics, plans and ideas that need Your attention.

So, Lord, I cannot ask You to save my soul for any reason other than Your love for me. Your unfailing love.

HE'S IT
Today's reading: Joshua 11-15

"Moses did not assign any land to the tribe of Levi. Instead, as the Lord had promised them, their inheritance came from the offerings burned on the altar to the Lord, the God of Israel." Joshua 13:14 NLT

Tell me, if you were of Levite descent, would you have been satisified not to have a piece of the Promised Land to call yours? Would you have been content to receive the left-overs from the altar of sacrifice? Would you have been happy to receive all you'd ever have from the generosity of others? What you had would be based upon their obedience and offering to God?

Maybe--some of you mumble.

No--a few of you honestly answer.

I might, for a while--several of us say in a very low voice.

Yes? Did I hear anyone say, 'yes'?

For the Levites, it wasn't a matter of them choosing, it was a choice that was made for them based upon their lineage. And, God's people or not, I'm sure they had the same responses to His decision as we do.

Some days their inheritance was tremendous! After an especially bountiful harvest, a plundering of a nearby town or a revival of the nation--boy, did the tribes bring in the loot!

Some days their inheritance, or lack of it, caused them to scrape crumbs out of the bottom of the barrel! A dry spell in giving. A time of sinful living. Months and years when the chosen people of God decided to go their own ways, instead of going His.

And back to you. If God were all you had, might you be content? If the praises your Savior received were all the praises you'd get, would you be satisfied? If at the end of the day the worship you bestowed upon your Creator was all He got, would the surplus carry you through until tomorrow's opportunity to serve Him?

One mustn't get to the proverbial end of their rope to realize He's all we have. He is our inheritance, what are we doing to invest wisely and soundly into the 'fund' He has set up in our names?

ONE LANGUAGE
Today's reading: Genesis 7-11

"At one time the whole world spoke a single language and used the same words." Genesis 11:1 NLT

I know, I know, God's talking about the time of the tower of Babel here, but I also believe He's talking about the good ole USA, also.

Forty hits next month, and even at this youthful age I can recall a time when appropriate language was normal. Men did not speak of certain things in the presence of a woman and dirty words were saved for the places where dirty words belong--bars and hostile places. Expletives were gasped at, not accepted as the norm.

But now?

'Potty mouth' is a rampant disease across our nation. Our school yards, our homes, our work places and our televisions--when certain shows are on. Our finest Christians even attempt to put a spin on the bad words by substituting them with a close facsimile...but doesn't it mean the same?

There are definitely different languages now. Three I can think of--foul, godly and whatever fits into the crowd I'm hanging around with. Two of the three are innapropriate--which one are you fluent in?

SPENDING MY DAYS WISELY
Today's reading: Matthew 5-7

"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not." Matthew 6:27 NLT

We know all the statistics. We've heard about the studies. We know, personally, it to be true. And yet, we continue to worry.

Why do we do it? Why do we waste away minutes, hours, days and months of our lives worrying? Why do we put all the energy, time and effort into something that leaves us worn out and with less time on our hands than we had prior?

What is it really that we do no think God is capable of handling?

What area of our lives do we believe He doesn't care to be involved in?

In what matters do we consider His hands to be tied?

Who in our life do we deem unreachable by the Creator, the Savior, the God of the universe?

Because isn't that what worry is--considering our God incapable?

DEAR SINNER
Today's reading: Romans 3-4

"For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard." Romans 3:23 NLT

Dear Sinner,

All of Christianity can take a deep breath because I have figured it out.

It's not about the sins we commit, it's about the fact that we're sinners.

It's not what we tell Him we've done/are doing, it's all about coming to Him and admitting we need His Son's blood to wash us up. You see, He knows all about it.

It's not about comparing our sins against the sins of another. It's not about grading the depravity of anything but ourselves and our roles--sin committers.

It's not about seeing how gracious He is or how merciful He can be, it's about Him falling in love with us and using that love to saving us from ourselves.

It's not about measuring yourself against another but measuring ourselves against God.

And when it's all said and done, we fall short--very short of the glorious standard He has set.

But there's good news--He makes up the difference!

Sincerely,
Fellow Sinner

STANDING OUT
Today's reading: Isaiah 7-11

What makes you different from the crowd? What is it about you that's unique? What about you testifies to the fact that we are all genuinely created? Really, think about it for a minute--what makes you, well, you?

Is it how you think?

"The Lord said to me in the strongest terms: Do not think like everyone else does." Isaiah 8:11 NLT

Oh sure, there are some thing we must agree on. There are projects that require putting our heads together and working on a common goal. There are issues that leave absolutely no room for differing opinions.

And then, there are the times when you must, as a Child of God, stand out in the crowd!

-Like when you use the talents He has given you.

-Like when He speaks to your heart concerning your personal conduct and conviction.

-Like when the Holy Spirit leads you.

-Like when everyone is swimming downstream and you know it's wrong.

So, do you think like everyone else or not?

BALLOON BUSTER
Today's reading: Job 3-4

I'm going to make a confession here and now. As much as I love getting in to God's Word, as adamant as I am that it's my all-time favorite book in the world...there are times when, well...there are times when I do not appreciate what it has to say, do not like where it takes my mind and do not want to apply what it asks me to apply.

There, I said it.

Today is one of those days.

A seemingly easy day was blown out of the water by an envelope received in the mail.

I did not expect to read what was typed on it. I received quite a curve-ball with its news.

And what did I do with the information? Did I fret? Did I worry? Did I mope, whine, complain and spew unkind words? No, I've kept it in. You see, I'm using all my energy to plan a huge pity party for myself--complete with balloons.

And that's when it happened. God's Word bursted all the balloons I'd blown up!

"In the past you have encouraged many a troubled soul to trust in God, you have supported those who were weak. Your words have strengthened the fallen, you steadied those who wavered. But now when trouble strikes, you faint and are broken. Does your reverence for God give you no confidence? Shouldn't you believe that God will care for those who are upright?" Job 4:3-6 NLT

This information-packed mailing did not surprise my Lord. The news did not cause His mighty jaw to drop wide-open in amazement. The impact of the note did not knock my Savior, my Creator, my Friend, for a loop.

And the verse reminded me of that. I'm cancelling the pity party. I'm going to use my energy instead to praise Him for having filtered through His hands all that will come in contact with my life--all!

BALLOON BUSTER
Today's reading: Job 3-4

I'm going to make a confession here and now. As much as I love getting in to God's Word, as adamant as I am that it's my all-time favorite book in the world...there are times when, well...there are times when I do not appreciate what it has to say, do not like where it takes my mind and do not want to apply what it asks me to apply.

There, I said it.

Today is one of those days.

A seemingly easy day was blown out of the water by an envelope received in the mail.

I did not expect to read what was typed on it. I received quite a curve-ball with its news.

And what did I do with the information? Did I fret? Did I worry? Did I mope, whine, complain and spew unkind words? No, I've kept it in. You see, I'm using all my energy to plan a huge pity party for myself--complete with balloons.

And that's when it happened. God's Word bursted all the balloons I'd blown up!

"In the past you have encouraged many a troubled soul to trust in God, you have supported those who were weak. Your words have strengthened the fallen, you steadied those who wavered. But now when trouble strikes, you faint and are broken. Does your reverence for God give you no confidence? Shouldn't you believe that God will care for those who are upright?" Job 4:3-6 NLT

This information-packed mailing did not surprise my Lord. The news did not cause His mighty jaw to drop wide-open in amazement. The impact of the note did not knock my Savior, my Creator, my Friend, for a loop.

And the verse reminded me of that. I'm cancelling the pity party. I'm going to use my energy instead to praise Him for having filtered through His hands all that will come in contact with my life--all!

CHIN UP, DAUGHTER
Today's reading: Psalms 3-5

Ashamed. Embarrassed. Disgusted. Frustrated. Exasperated. Depleted. Despairing.

In desperation I sought Him. In awe I approached Him. In humility I bowed. In tears I confessed. In need I asked.

He accepted what little I had to offer. He drew me near, despite the smell of my sins. He held me close enough I had the imprint of His robe on my cheek. He lovingly lifted my face towards Him saying, Chin up, daughter--you're mine!

Honor. Gratitude. Peace. Joy. Relief. Rest. Security. Pride.

"But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts my head high." Psalm 3:3 NLT

KING ADONI-ZEDEK
Today's reading: Joshua 6-10

Know who King Adoni-zedek was?

This king reigned over the area of Jerusalem prior to it being captured and settled by the Israelites. He governed and maintained a rather large city for the time and took his job very seriously. He was a man of power and someone kept up to date on current events. He was an enemy to God's people. He stood in the way of the multitude reaching and claiming the Promised Land.

"Now Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem, heard that Joshua had captured and completely destroyed Ai and killed its king, just as he had destroyed the city of Jericho and killed its king. He also learned that the Gibeonites had made peace with Israel and were now their allies. He and his people became very afraid when they heard all this..." Joshua 10:1-2 NLT

God's power scared him.

God's people, filled with God's power scared him.

God's people, filled with God's power, doing what God asked them to do scared him to death.

King Adoni-zedek was a lot like satan is today. He afraid, very afraid of God's kids taking God up on His word! Satan himself is full aware of all that can be accomplished under God's command and power--and he trembles with fear!

But? And I'm only passing along the question God asked me this morning--is he afraid of you? Are you partnering with God on any battles, or doing it on your own? Are you accomplishing huge things for Him, through Him, by His power--or attempting a strategy of your own making? Are you filled with the power of the Almighty God, or are you a little too filled with yourself?

ANSWER FOR YOURSELF
Today's reading: Genesis 4-7

"At harvest time Cain brought to the Lord a gift of his farm produce, while Abel brought several choice lambs from the best of his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his offering, but he did not accept Cain and his offering. This made Cain very angry and dejected." Genesis 4:3-4 NLT

I won't begin to tell you I can 'read between the lines' in the account of the two brothers and their two offerings. God hasn't given me any special insight as to what occurred, but can I take a guess as to the order of events for the day?

Cain woke up late. Cain had forgotten that this day was 'the day' to present something to the Lord. He mumbled, grumbled and fumbled around getting ready--and then grabbed up a few medium-sized zucchini and a handful of not-too-wilted radishes out of yesterday's garden basket. He pulled into the parking lot on two wheels, having to park at the back because he was running late. And then? While he waited to approach the priest with his offering, he had to sit in a seat that wasn't his.

Abel? Abel had set his alarm. Abel had selected, weeks prior to the holy day, which of his lambs looked the best and he had them fluffed and ready for the ride to the Tabernacle. Abel left in plenty of time to deal with the flat tire he had on the way, the slower senior citizen driving ahead of him and the long line at the donut shop. He quickly found a parking spot and herded his sheep into the alotted place for the priest to approve.

Cain left church feeling a little hot under the collar, embarrassed and put out. Abel headed home filled with awe of the Lord and a deeper appreciation of the privilege of being able to worship the Holy One.

Nothing's really changed from that day to this, have they? People are the same, aren't they? God's not asking for more or less today than He did way back then.

If we were to get down to the nitty-gritty of it all, we'd have to survey our visit to the Temple yesterday. What we took. What we expected to receive. What we went to do. What we prepared for. What we took home from the service. How we served. How we sang. How we greeted. How we listened. How we responded. How we worshipped our Savior.

So? Based upon your own inventory...who were you more like? Cain or Abel?

YOUR LIST
Today's reading: Matthew 3-4

"News about him spread far beyond the borders of Galilee so that the sick were soon coming to be healed from as far away as Syria. And whatever their illness and pain, or if they were possessed by demons, or were epileptic or were paralyzed--he healed them all." Matthew 4:24 NLT

I do not believe this is an all-inclusive list of the 'issues' Jesus healed while here on earth. I hesitate to think they could all be recorded. I believe for every single person He came in contact with, there was a healing of some sort take place. I doubt a person walked away from having met Him unchanged--regardless of their acceptance or rejection of His gift.

Just think of the list you could jot down about all He's relieved you of...

Fear?

Doubt?

Hurt?

Burdens?

Weaknesses?

Shame?

Hell?

Death?

He heals us all when we approach Him! Each and every one of us!

WHY?
Today's reading: Romans 1-2

Why do I do it? Why do I get up early each morning to read the Bible? Why would I even think anyone would want to read what I write about what I find in His Word? Why would I divulge to complete strangers, and some of you are, so much information about myself, my struggles, my convictions and my life? Why?

I don't consider it a job. I don't dread the morning routine. I don't consider it drudgery.

I don't see this as an opportunity to amass a small fortune from my writings.

I don't do it in order to add 'writer' to my resume.

"I'm eager to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours. In this way, each of us will be a blessing to the other." Romans 1:12 NLT

I need the accountability. I need, because of the self-control and self-discipline I lack, to know it's something I've contracted myself to do. Some of you have checked in on me when I didn't 'post' due to internet problems, vacation or illness. I thank you for keeping my heart to the task, the privileged task.

I do it for the connection I've gained with some of you. I've made new friends. I've been introduced, via internet, to some of the finest new friends I have. My circle of prayer warriors and Christian brothers and sisters has been expanded beyond my wildest dreams.

I do it because of the enthusiasm I have for God's Word! I am thrilled with its contents, it's life-changing power. I have found a cure to alot of what ails the world, and I won't keep it to myself.

I do it as my 'relief valve'. My writings are an overflow of all He's poured into my life. There is no way possible that I could hold in all He speaks to me, does for me, shows me and allows me to be a part of. I cannot hold it in.

I do it for God, I do it for you---and I do it for myself, too. Yes, that's why I do it!

BARE MINIMUM
Today's reading: Isaiah 1-6

If I were a fish, I'd be hooked.

If I were a rat, I'd be trapped.

If I were a criminal, I'd be caught.

If I were not covered with His grace and adorned with His mercy, I'd have looked over it completely...thankfully, He's taking care of me and opening my eyes to things I've overlooked for years! What's He's revealed, I am in awe of. The words He's spotlighted, have settled on my heart and has given plenty of reason for me to ponder them--and pass them along to you.

"Stop putting your trust in mere humans..." Isaiah 2:22 NLT

Do you know what words Merriam-Webster uses to define the word 'mere'? Being nothing more than. A synonym? Bare.

I've allowed 'barely there church folks' to ruin an opportunity to worship, instead of honoring God because of Who He is.

I've succumbed to the considerations and critiques of people who are nothing more than sinners saved by grace, like myself, instead of measuring my worth and attempts against His measuring stick--Christ's blood.

I've been stopped dead in my tracks, trying to be obedient, by mere humans displaying jealousy in the form of spiritual maturity and tradition, instead doing what He's asked me to do.

I've hit the 'delete' button on numerous occasions, instead of sending just what He spoke to me about--because I was afraid it would be taken as too personal, too preachy, too judgemental, instead of honoring Him.

I've settled. I've back-pedaled. I've given up. I've thrown in the towel. I've washed my hands of it all. I've huddled bruised and beaten in a pew. I've watched my blessings go to others. I've felt the sting of discipline. I've fallen and stayed down. I've had my feelings wadded up and tossed in the trash. All because I've carelessly placed my trust in mere humans.

But today? Today,I've sent the devotion on, but I'm trusting God, not mere humans, to accept what I've written and learned from time in His Word.

ETHICAL INVESTING
Today's reading: Job 1-2

The new word being spoken around social circles is 'ethical investing'. A neat term used for making stocks and bonds purchases only of companies maintaining Christian ethics, selling non-offensive products and using tactful advertising. Businesses are scored according to their commitment to charitable giving, employee relations and impact on the community. The premise behind the idea is that good stewardship should prompt us all to use our money as wisely as possible, because afterall, it's not really ours! One could also say that in placing our money into God-honoring businesses, we are using it to spread the Gospel even farther.

"Then the Lord asked satan, Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth--a man of complete integrity. He fears God and will have nothing to do with evil." Job 1:8 NLT

Job and his oxen/sheep/donkey/camel business could have been listed as a company of choice on the ethical investors Top Ten in his day. It's stated, by God himself, that Job was a man of complete integrity. And let's be honest, if God says that about someone, you can take it to the bank!

Makes me do a little soul-searching. You see, would the company I work for be considered a good Christian investment because of me? Do my work ethics point to God? Does my idle time honor Christ? Do the jokes I tell, the jokes I laugh at, the conversations I allow myself into--do they show integrity on my part?

Put aside the titles I have: church member, Sunday School teacher, Cubbie leader. Do I show godliness throughout the week? Does my Monday through Saturday actions and attitudes match up with my Sunday face?

Would I be recommended by God as worthy, as filled with integrity, as a good and godly investment, like Job?

DESTINATIONS
Today's reading: Psalms 1-2

I'm here to burst your bubble. To set things straight. To clear up a common misconception. To unravel an untruth.

Here it is: Just because you're His, does not entitle you to an easy walk in the park of life!

What reminded me of the big fat lie we'd all like to believe? A verse in today's reading...

"For the Lord watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction." Psalm 1:6 NLT

But, Malinda, you say, it says '...the Lord watches over the path of the godly...'.

I know.

Read on, dear friend, read on! You see, the verse continues on to state that the real point is the destination, not the path.

Your path, even those of the the godliest among us, will be littered with detours, landslides, construction zones and policed road blocks. Your path may take you to the take-your-breath-away vistas and careening by the smelliest of landfills. Your path might entail days of sunshine-y saunters and forced marches during downpours. Your path may be on level terrain scented with the wafting smell of wildflowers and fresh-cut grass and uphill trudgeries that leave nothing but the smell of sweat in your nostrils.

No matter the trip, it's the destination we're gearing up for. Nothing that occurs on your journey surprises our Lord--He sees the path.

You see, He's preparing us for glory, eternal glory, not a continual, blister-evoking hike through this old world!

Press on, destination is everything!

HIS PROMISE TO YOU
Today's reading: Joshua 1-5

"I promise you what I promised Moses: Everywhere you go, you will be on land I have given you...No one will be able to stand their ground against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail or abandon you." Joshua 1:3-5 NLT

Promises, promises, you say. You've been burned enough times to put very little stock in spoken promises--anyone's, to be quite honest. You've suffered embarrassment, pain and emotional stress over someone's so-called promises.

The thing is, brother and sister in Christ, it's not just someone making these promises to us--it's the Risen Lord!

The One who came back after His death--like He said He would!

The One who suffered and died for you to gain eternity--like He said He would!
The One who walks beside, ahead and carries you--like He said He would!

I understand you're a little gun-shy of the promises made by people, but this promise? This promise spoken to you today? The promise that He has secured the very place you'll set your feet? The promise that He is with you--at all times? The promise that He won't leave or let you down?

Those are His promises to you, as His child. And those promises, along with the many others He's made, you can take to the bank!

SINGLE WORDS
Today's reading: Genesis 1-3

"Now the serpent was the shrewdest of all the creatures the Lord God had made. Really? he asked the woman..." Genesis 3:1 NLT

I can remember it as clearly as if it had happened yesterday. I can hear the sing-song in my voice. I recall just the tone I would use.

And it worked. Every time, it worked.

You see, I could (past tense only, I'm far too mature for that sort of thing now) push my younger sister's buttons.

Oh, it seldom took much. She was, in the science experiment kind of way, the reactant...I was the catalyst. I was the instigator, she was the one who couldn't ignore me! Oh, I've repented of my past sins and have some of the scars to prove that retaliation hurts. We, I more than her, even joke about it these days.

A single word would usually set off fireworks between us. Nothing loud. Nothing harsh. Nothing, in all reality, that meant a thing. A single, well toned and pronunciated word and I had her fired up and ready to rumble. A single, solitary word.

But it worked.

It worked with Eve, too.

A single word. A seed. A simple question that evokes doubt, fear and disobedience. You? Now? Why? All? Them? That? There? Really?

Dog gone that serpent! It still works on us in the same way, doesn't it?

YOU'LL FIND MY NAME
Today's reading: Matthew 1-2

I'm not usually a fan of the 'begats'. In my list of less than desirable Bible verses, the genealogies would be found. But this morning, things are different.

Maybe it's the new year? Could it be the extra sleep I allowed myself this morning? I'm hoping it's just a matter of the Lord speaking to me--and me actually listening, but I've been excited over the list of ancestors found in the first sixteen verses of Matthew 1. Especially the final verse...

"Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Mary was the mother of Jesus, who is called the Messiah." Matthew 1:16 NLT

That verse in it self is great news, but let's fast-forward several generations. Let's continue to extend the genealogy. Let's add a page or two to the begats. Let's carry on for another several generations and there you'll find the most amazing of news...my name!

You see, I'm a child of God! I've invited Christ into my heart, which places me in the family! I've asked forgiveness and received His grace and mercy, that, dear friend, places me at the table with the King!

Christ's birth, and more importantly His death and resurrection, my acceptance of His gift of salvation and His acceptance of me gives a spot in the family to me! I'm kin!

BEGINNINGS
Today's reading: Genesis 1

"In the beginning..." Genesis 1:1 NLT

The beginning, Lord? Just what I needed to talk to you about this morning. You see 'beginnings' are very scary things to me. Why? Well, it's not the start of things that frighten me, it's the sad, awful fact that I fail at the follow-through.

In the beginning of this year I hope to attack the Bible with excitement and a desire to glean from it wisdom and knowledge. I want to make Bible study, not just Bible reading, a very important part of my daily life. But I know how 'project's like this fizzle out after I attempt them a day or two.

In the beginning of this year I hope to take better care of this temple you've wonderfully and fearfully created. I want to make wiser choices in what I take in and what energy I expend. But my track record with dieting is worst than my track record with Bible study--far worse.

In the beginning of this year I hope to make more effort to control my tongue. I want to speak peace, love, joy and truth in every conversation I'm in. I desire to nix all inappropriate responses, critical remarks and smart-aleck reactions. Right now it's pretty easy, my family's still in bed and it's just me. Tomorrow it'll be simple because I'll be at church. But Monday? Next week? The week after than when my hormones rage and the desire to speak my peace bubbles within in?

In the beginning of this year I have so many goals, but so little hope.

But You, Lord, You're great with beginnings, and endings! Won't you take me under Your wing? Make me your special project? Send an extra bit of strength my way? Cover me more thoroughly with Your grace, more evidently with Your mercy--so much so that I respond from the realization of all You've done for me.

Happy New Year, Lord...I do believe it's going to be the beginning of something special between us!