STAYING AWAY
Today's reading: Job 1-2

"There was a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was blameless, a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil." Job 1:1 NLT

Job stayed away from evil.

That's what I want as my goal for the new year...to stay away from evil.

To see it around me, and excuse myself. To hear of it, and exit the conversation. To watch as it innocently begins to snowball and break it up.

To do my part in living a godly life.

To refuse to participate in, propagate or please the part of me that desires to turn away from my Savior, Friend and Redeemer.

LAUGHTER IN HEAVEN
Today's reading: Psalm 1-2

"But the one who rules in heaven laughs..." Psalm 2:4 NLT

I don't think I ever remember a time when I thought God was distant or aloof to the smallest of issues in my life. I don't recall ever once thinking He didn't care about me and didn't have my best interests at heart. I don't know if there has ever been a time in my life that I didn't know He was with me--right beside me, in me, directing my path.

That being said, I haven't always liked what He allowed, enjoyed the discipline due me or understood each and every circumstance He chose to weave in to my life.

Here is another thing I have always known...God laughs at me.

Is He sovereign? Absolutely yes!

Is He the Supreme Ruler? Yes, again.

Is He mighty, powerful and holy? Yes, yes and yes.

Is He just and right and magnificent? Oh, yes and so many more adjectives I cannot begin to type.

But I also know this King of mine laughs at me. His lamb. His daughter. His prodigal. His created one.

How could He not? Why would He not?

He laughs when I lay out plans for Him that would be best for me. He laughs when I attempt to do His job. He laughs when I try to worship Him with all I have and it comes out looking much like a two year-old's attempt at mimicking a Picasso. He laughs when I stand speechless before Him as He unwraps gift after gift for me to experience.

He loves me and I bring Him pleasure. Sure, I hurt Him at times, too, with my disobedience and faithlessness, but as His child, He thinks I'm great.  I make Him giggle. I make Him roar with laughter. I make the Creator of all that I see grab His sides and belly laugh.

That's how personal our relationship is.
  


 

TO YOU?
Today's reading: Joshua 1-5

"...In the future, your children will ask, What do these stones mean to you? Then you can tell them..." Joshua 4:6-7 NLT

I like the wording in this translation.

It says, What do these stones mean to you?

To you.

Not to your religion. Not to your denomination. Not to your church affiliation. Not to your circle of friends. Not to your Bible study friends. Not to your church friends who might be listening in on your answer or watching for your response.

What the memorial of stones mean to you?

When our kids ask, they're not asking for a deeply theological answer. They're not looking for what the preacher would say. They aren't wanting to hear what the world is already screaming in their ears. They aren't even looking for what they know they've heard some time or another in Sunday School...they want to know what it means to you.

So, what does your faith mean to you?

The monument built in your life to God, why is it there? How did it come to be? What brought you to the point in life where you realized your desperate need for Him? How did He come to be all you needed/wanted/desired/sought after/longed for?

What does He mean to you? Yes, you.

PATTERNED AFTER HIM
Today's reading: Genesis 1-3

"So God created people in his own image, God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them." Genesis 1:27 NLT

I used to sew. I'd make my own clothes, stitch up curtains, I've made a few quilts, I even made my own wedding dress.

I usually had to have a pattern. If I wanted a skirt, I'd use skirt pattern pieces. If I wanted a blouse, I'd lay out the pieces required for a blouse. I couldn't mix and match the pieces and have it turn out as I would hope.

As I read today's verse and think about the new year fast approaching, I'm hopeful.

You see, it tells me that I am patterned after God.

In my heart I desire to be more like Him this year than last. I'm even beginning a few challenges, goals and resolutions beginning today (Monday) rather than wait until the new year begins later this week.

I am tickled to think that I'm already made in His image. I'm not a leopard attempting to change its spots, rather a child of God whose spots(sins) have been washed away--and any new spots covered under His grace as I attempt to live as I ought.

I was made to reflect Him.

I was created to be godly.

I was knit together in my mother's womb so that the world would see Him in me.

That gives me hope! Lots of hope! Enough hope to consider the task at hand not too large or unattainable!

REASON TO WORSHIP
Today's reading: Hebrews 12

"Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be destroyed, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe." Hebrews 12:28 NLT

Sunday is here.

It's rainy. It's dark. It's dreary.

I'm tired. I'm down. I'm not feeling very social.

And worship service is approaching.

I needed this verse.

I needed the reminder that it is not at all about me.

How I feel. What I want to do. Whether or not I want to talk/visit with others.

It's about Him.

And how very much I owe Him praise.

Because of His love for me.

Because of the hope He holds for me.

Because of the promise heaven holds for me as His child.

I'm going to worship this morning, in spirit and in truth.

To really worship.

To worship the One who so rightly deserves my praise and admiration.

WHAT YOU BELIEVE
Today's reading: Acts 27-28

"But we want to hear what you believe,.." Acts 28:22 NLT

Who will this upcoming new year place in your path? With whom will you be allowed the privilege of sharing your testimony? Who will be desperate to hear about your God?

...about the Risen Savior?
...about true love?
...about joy?
...about peace?
...about hope?
...about the separation sin causes?
...about eternity?

They may act as if they don't, but down deep they are wanting to know what you believe--and more importantly, in Who you believe!

HE MET US
Today's reading: Luke 2

"And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the village inn." Luke 2:6-7 NLT

We didn't have to clean up and approach His throne.

We didn't have to straighten ourselves up and prove ourselves worthy enough.

We didn't have to do enough or be enough.

He came to us where we were. He met us in a barn.

In a smelly, stinky barn where things were not pristine, perfect or polished.

I am so glad this Christmas morning He met me where I was!

GOD WITH US
Today's reading: Matthew 1

"...and he will be called Immanuel, meaning God with us." Matthew 1:23 NLT

As I sat thru a Christmas candlelight service last night I heard what the pastor stated as being the most powerful statement in the Bible.

GOD with us.

Oh,how desperately we needed Him.

How lost we would be without Him.

This morning, this Christmas eve morning, I am still thinking about it.

How we still, if not more, need Him.

We need Him near us, with us, in us.

AS WE GO
Today's reading: Psalm 149-150

"Let the faithful rejoice in his honor. Let them sing for joy as they lie in their beds. Let the praises of God be in their mouths..." Psalm 149:5-6 NLT

What is the world hearing us say this  Christmas season?

Do they hear our rants against long lines and high prices?

Are they hearing us mumbled about Christ being taken out of the season?

Are they even hearing us speak as we rush here and there?

Do we have His praises on our lips? Do they hear the awe in our voice as we speak of the Baby? Do the hear gratitude in our words as we refer to the Gift of God to us?

PLUNDER
Today's reading: Esther 6-10

"Meanwhile, the other Jews throughout the king's provinces had gathered together to defend their lives. They gained relief from all their enemies, killing seventy-five thousand of those who hated them. But they did not take any plunder." Esther 9:16 NLT

A saved life.

A redeemed heart.

A purified soul.

Too often as we accept God's forgiveness, grab hold of His favor, watch our enemies fall at our feet and rest in the peace that comes from security in our Savior, we tend to want souvenirs.

Trinkets that point back to where we have been.

How bad we were.

Where our gutter was located.

Who we used to be.

Notches on our weapons.

Scalps on our belts.

And we struggle to carry them, keep them, shine them up. We spend alot of time talking about them and showing them off.

The Jews in the account of Esther wanted no part of their enemies, they just wanted peace. They did what God had led them to do and rested in what He allowed them to succeed.

No trophies. No postcards. No t-shirts. No plunder from the defeated ones.

They were content with God.

A sure lesson to learn.

YOUR LIFE
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 32-34

"These instructions are not mere words--they are your life!.." Deuteronomy 32:47 NLT

As Moses prepared for his departure. As he gave final words to the mass he had been guiding for forty years. As he looked over into the Promised Land. He gave these words.

He wanted them to know how valuable God's words should be to them.

They were not merely suggestions.

They were not outdated.

They were not old-fashioned.

They were not to be ignored.

They were not to be taken lightly.

They were life.

What are God's words to you? Is His Book simply a Sunday accessory? A nice decoration for the coffee table? A place to keep Sunday bulletins? A 9-1-1 sort of item?

Is the Holy Bible life to you? Does it give you breath to breathe, a reason for your heart to beat, hope that this is not all there is?

CHRISTMAS WISH
Today's reading: Jude

I don't know who will walk through your front door this Christmas.

I'm not sure what you will find wrapped under your tree.

I don't know what all you will feast on to celebrate His birth.

I don't know what's even on your wish list.

Not knowing all of this, here's what I wish for you...

"May you receive more and more of God's mercy, peace and love." Jude verse 2 NLT

CHRISTMAS LIGHT
Today's reading: Acts 25-26

"But God protected me so that I am still alive today to tell these facts to everyone, from the least to the greatest. I teach nothing except what the prophets and Moses said would happen--that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead as a light to Jews and Gentiles alike." Acts 26:22-23 NLT

The lights sparkle on our Christmas tree.

The house down the road is bedazzled with lights. Lights that, if like the past several years, will be up until almost Easter.

The section of our little town decked out in lights for block after block has cars lined up each and every evening this season.

Lights are everywhere.

But are they distracting us from the one Light that came for us all?

A WAR GOING ON
Today's reading: Revelation 12-17

"Then the dragon became angry at the woman, and he declared war against the rest of her children--all who keep God's commandments and confess they belong to Jesus." Revelation 12:17 NLT

If you are God's...

If you determine in your heart and try with all your might to keep His commandments...

If you confess Jesus with your words and your actions...

You will be in the battle.

There will be a war waging against you, for you, around you.

Satan will not be happy, but God will be enough--more than enough!

A DIFFERENT BREED
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 5-6

"Who is this, they ask, arising like the dawn, as fair as the moon, as bright as the sun, as majestic as an army with banners?" Song of Solomon 6:10 NLT

The young man of these songs is talking about his girl. He's telling all who will listen what the others are saying about her--what they're noticing about her--how taken they are with her--how they are coming to love her as much as he is.

Is it being said about you, Christian friend?

Are you a different breed?

Standing out in the crowd?

Are they noticing your peace?

Your joy?

Your love?

Are you making a difference in someone else's life by how you live yours?

EVERY PROMISE FOREVER
Today's reading: Psalm 146-148

"...He is the one who keeps every promise forever." Psalm 146:6 NLT

Those words are a gift to me this season.

Wrapped in loved.

Tied with a flourish.

Tagged with my name.

Malinda,
I will keep every promise to you, forever.
Love, God.

As He did for Noah. And for Abraham. And for Daniel as he slept beside the lion. And for David as he hid from his enemies. And for Saul-turned-Paul as he spread the Good News. And for the woman who anointed His feet with what was in her alabaster box--the one who thought she was gifting Him.

As I think this morning about all He has promised me, I'm falling back on my favorite--He will never leave me or forsake me.

I'm never alone. I'm never left to fend for myself. I'm never standing solo in a great big world. I'm never shivering alone on a long dark night. I'm never rowing my own boat against the waves. I'm never sitting in a waiting room by myself. I'm never not being heard. I'm not going to spend eternity in a grave. I'm not living this Christian life for my own benefit.

Every promise forever. What a gift!

REAL BEAUTY
Today's reading: Esther 1-5

"When the time came for her to go in to the king, she was given her choice of whatever clothing or jewelry she wanted to enhance her beauty." Esther 2:13 NLT

I think of young Esther as she stands in the jewelry vault or in the larger-than-walk-in closet holding the gowns of the day. The choices are before her. More choices than she's ever imagined. More choices than she could have ever dreamed.

What would one choose to enhance one's beauty? What would one put on? What color would one choose? What might one select for an audience with the king? What would one wear that would leave a lasting impact?

Our King has made that selection easy.

It's righteousness. It's a robe of white provided to those whose sins have been washed in the blood of His Son, Jesus. It's the clothing of one that's redeemed. It's the garment of salvation provided to His children.

I don't know what you are wearing today. To work. To school. To run errands. To conquer a mountain of laundry. Here's what I know, I do hope it is righteousness.

It has a way of making everyone more beautiful, or more ruggedly handsome if that's what you need to hear!
 

ALL THE QUESTIONS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 29-31

"There are secret things that belong to the Lord our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law." Deuteronomy 29:29 NLT

We have so many questions...

Why, Lord?

When, Lord?

We focus on what we don't know. We allow our unanswered questions to overwhelm our thoughts and overtake our minds. We worry and fret over secret things.

And why?

Why? When we are given so, so much to believe?

We can believe He loves us.

We understand He is able.

We have seen Him perform miracles in our lives, even in the quietest of lives.

We have His Word and we have His word.

We know His track record.

There is plenty of revealed things for us to focus on--why not leave the secret things in the hands of the One who knows all about them? 

BODY & SOUL
Today's reading: 3 John

"Dear friend, I am praying that all is well with you and that your body is as healthy as I know your soul is." 3 John verse 2 NLT

Medically speaking, there are a whole lot of tests that can be run to check your physical health. Doctors recommend yearly screenings to stay ahead of lurking problems. Blood tests reveal what your fluids say is going on in your body. Xrays reveal what no one else can see.

But a soul test?

Life, I think, is the soul test.

The rough days reveal your healthy hope.

The stormy nights tell you where your peace is resting.

The hard-to-swallow circumstances test the depths of your trust in the Lord.

Your reaction to the surprises thrown your way expose whether or not you believe the Lord, truly, truly, believe the Lord.

There is no co-pay involved. No appointment necessary. No referral. No filing with insurance. No waiting in the germ-infested waiting room.

My prayer is that both your body and soul are well--exceedingly well!

HOW WELL IT WENT
Today's reading: Acts 23-24

The first ten verses of Acts 23 take us to the moment in time when Paul stood before the Pharisees and the Saducees. It was his opportunity to state his case for Christ.

It didn't go well.

The high council wanted him slapped for blasphemy. His words divided the audience. There was violence. There was shouting.

So, as we come to verse 11, I believe I can see Paul sitting in his cell pondering the day's events.

Being I've been there before, I think he really felt as if he had bombed. Failed. Wasted the opportunity God had provided for him. And yet we see in verse 11--

"That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have told the people about me in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome." Acts 23:11 NLT

I can imagine the list of excuses Paul may have provided God for needing to choose another guy. I can just hear Paul shaking his head and asking God where He was during the fiasco--didn't He see? I know Paul's self-esteem was at an all-time low.

And yet God chose Paul to keep at it.

To continue on.

To be steadfast.

To open his mouth and share--and God would do the rest.

I believe He's telling me the same thing today. No matter how many conversations I've walked away from thinking I've really blown it.

To God, it's more about the obedience than the performance.

A PLACE FOR YOU
Today's reading: Revelation 7-11

"...Then he said to me, These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. That is why they are standing in front of the throne of God, serving him day and night in his Temple. And he who sits on the throne will live among them and shelter them. They will never again be hungry or thirsty, and they will be fully protected from the scorching noontime heat." Revelation 7:14-16 NLT

I don't know what you're going through right now.

Maybe it's a trying season you're walking through. A time of tribulation after tribulation. A gloomy, rainy, stormy kind of day--and an even worse kind of night. One that leaves long, scary shadows. One that howls. One that seems to last much longer that it should.

Here's the good news, hurting brother or sister--there is a place for those who endure.

It's the throne of God.

It's promised for those who have been washed in His blood.

It's promised that perseverance will promote a desire to praise Him--day and night, for all eternity.

It's a place where you'll not hurt again. Ever. No pain. No sorrow. No fears. No doubts. No hunger. No needs. No long, shadowy nights.

So, make it through today. Endure the next hour. Breathe through the next five minutes. Trust Him to sustain you, strengthen you and reward you.

This life lasts only a little while.

LOOKING FOR HIM
Today's reading: Song Of Solomon 3-4

"One night as I lay in bed, I yearned deeply for my lover, but he did not come. So I said to myself, I will get up now and roam the city, searching for him in all its streets and squares. But my search was in vain. The watchmen stopped me as they made their rounds, and I said to them, Have you seen him anywhere, this one I love so much?" Song of Solomon 3:1-3 NLT

What lengths have I gone to in order that I might find God?

I'm not asking myself if I've recently come up with a great new ministry idea, started a blossoming outreach program or sparked a budding Christian growth class...

But have I sought out God?

Where He is already at work, and come up alongside Him?

What He is busy at, and stepped in to do what He needs me to do?

Who He is already working on, and I repeat to them what He is already saying to their hearts?

I'm thinking this morning that God needs fewer 'trailblazers' in His church than we think He does.  He needs more and more of us to pitch in where He is already moving, changing, transforming and redeeming.

I'm going to go out looking for God today!

MEDITATIONS OF MY HEART
Today's reading: Psalm 143-145

"I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles." Psalm 145:5 NLT

I've glanced at the Lexicon this morning in regards to the word 'meditate'. Sure, I know what it means, but I wanted to know what was meant in its original intent. What I've found stirred my heart...

The Hebrew word for meditate is 'asihah'. A few of it's synonyms are meditate, talk over, think on, muse, ponder and sigh.

My favorite synonym was muse.

A muse, in artistic language, is an inspiration. A muse is what inspires a writer to write, a painter to paint and sculptor to sculpt. It's what stirs them. It's what makes them want to make art. It's sometimes what they fashion their artwork after.

When I think of all God has done or me, I am inspired. I am inspired to be more worthy, to be more thankful, to be more loving, to be more gracious. When I meditate on Who He is to me, I do pause and sigh. It overwhelms. It moves my heart. It makes me want to perform from the inside for Him to be glorified.

What does thinking about His greatness do for you?

NOT MY DAY
Today's reading: Nehemiah 10-13

"So I confronted the leaders of Judah, Why are you profaning the Sabbath in this evil way?" Nehemiah 13:17 NLT

I'll admit, some mornings it's easier to write what I believe He is speaking to my heart than others. On occasion the words flow quickly, on other occasions, there seems to be a block between what is in my head and heart and what I type. It's usually too personal on those days. It's about things God is chastising me for. It's about things He has found me to be doing and has brought to my attention. It's about sins in my own heart.

On those days, I cannot find anything witty to type. I cannot relay a cute 'from the farm' story. I cannot delve into historical fact or background.

Today is one of those days.

When this verse jumped off the page at me, I was taken aback. I didn't want to open up that can of worms. I didn't want to share my inadequacies and failures. I didn't want you to know about my sin.

You see, I'm guilty of making my Sabbath more about me than Him.

Oh, I'm in His house. I'm about His business. I'm in His Word. I'm serving. I'm respecting His sanctuary. I'm going through the motions of worship, but I am not making it all about Him--I am profaning the Sabbath.

I have, in my heart, been brought up before my Judge, facts have been presented, a verdict of guilty rendered in my case.

So what will I do? How will I change my course?

I don't know. He hasn't revealed all of that to me, yet. He's not talked specifics to my heart yet. He's not pointed out specific avenues of change I need to make. He's not spot-lighted any errors in my way. But I know they are there. In my heart. In the depths of my soul. In the marrow of my worship.

I do know that beginning today, yes it's only Tuesday, I'm preparing my heart and mind for His day--and I won't try to make it about me anymore. Maybe, just maybe, it won't look any different from your perspective--and maybe it will.

HIS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 26-28

"The Lord has declared today that you are his people, his own special treasure..." Deuteronomy 26:18 NLT

It's one thing for me to claim I'm God's. I can shout it from the rooftop. I can wear a t-shirt screen printed with the fact across the back. I can have it imprinted on the front of my Bible. I can gather in groups of others claiming the same thing.

But to have Him say I'm his? To have God make the statement? To have my Savior claim me as His own?

That's priceless! That's huge! It should be a life-changer.

There is no way in the world that knowing I'm His won't change the way I go about my day. There shouldn't be any doubt as to Whose I am with what I say, what I do or how I love others.

But is there?

He claims I'm His. I claim I'm His. But does the world see it?

The more godly a man is, and the more graces and blessings of God are upon him, the more need he hath to pray, because Satan is busiest against him, and because he is readiest to be puffed up with a conceited holiness.  -- Richard Greenham

REAL LOVE
Today's reading: 2 John

"Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning." 2 John verse 6 NLT

In my head, and heart, I'm going over what love is not.

It is not always easy.

It is not always pretty.

It is not just tolerating someone.

It is not walking around them in order to keep the peace.

It is not refusing to speak to them because of what they have done/said/acted out.

It is not putting on a smile that goes no deeper than the veneers on your teeth.

It is not just serving out of Christian duty, bare minimum service, I might add.

What is it then?

It's love. The kind of love you want showered on you. The kind that overlooks. The kind that shows concern-enough concern to love them into God's kingdom. The king that realizes they are just as imperfect as you are. The kind that hurts. The kind you know is genuine. The kind that lasts long after the meeting. The kind that changes hearts. The kind that others see as miraculous. The kind of love that points to Christ!

So, are you loving? That's what He is asking me this morning.

WHY NOT?
Today's reading: Acts 21-22

"But he said, Why all this weeping? You are breaking my heart! For I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem, but also to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus/" Acts 21:13 NLT

Paul's friends only thought they had caught a glimpse of all that Paul would endure if he continued on in his travels. They were afraid for him. They didn't want him to experience pain or even discomfort. They wanted to save him from all of that-and more.

And yet he was ready to accept all God had in store for him in order that God would be glorified.

Can I say that?

For myself? For my son? For my church?

I want to be the godly woman God has designed me to be, but I won't be without the journey He has ordered me to take. I want to know faith is the key. I want to have callouses on my knees from prayer. I want to see Him do miracles above and beyond my wildest dreams. I want to see His fingerprints in my life. I want Him to have a permanent impression of  my hands clinging to His.

I want my boy to walk even closer to God than I walk, but he won't have that personal relationship with God unless he experiences it himself--the good times, the faith-questioning times and the times when he will feel as if he is walking it alone. I want Him to know how good God is! I want Him to feel, no--know the power of his Creator.

I want my church to explode with God's power, love and might, but it won't without pain, division and the discomfort of multiplication. It may be ugly looking. It may hurt. It may look to the outside world like it's imploding.

You see, I want Him glorified, and I can truly say I want it more than anything else.   

HOLD TIGHTLY
Today's reading: Revelation 1-6

"...I will ask nothing more of you except that you hold tightly to what you have until I come." Revelation 2:24-25 NLT

A few facts up front:

-In my Bible, this passage of Scripture is written in red. Jesus' words. Not a commentary about what He said or what another understood Him to say. His words.

-It's written to the church of Thyratira. A church complimented for its love, faith, service and patient endurance.

-It's about the one complaint God had against this church. The critique. The constructive criticism.

-It's to let them know they were letting things in the church (idols) that did not belong.

So, I believe Jesus is telling them, and telling us, keep it simple. There is no need to add to His message or decorate His truth.

He's saying I've asked you to hold on to the hope of Me. Nothing else. No bells and whistles attached to it, just the assurance that My promises will come true. Don't watch others, make sure you're doing what I ask of you.

That being said--what are you wearing yourself out with? Is it holding on, or is it polishing, decorating and embellishing the hope He gave you at salvation? Is it trying to do it a new way? Is it attempting to spin plates in your church? Is it standing strong and stalwart on points of no interest to our Lord?

New teachings, worldly distractions and easier ways will distract us and cause us to wander from His one expectation for us.

    

WHAT WE NEED
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 1-2

"...How right that the young women love you!" Song of Solomon 1:4 NLT

I see a lot of hurting young women. Gals who are seeking. Girls who are considering themselves to be of less worth than they truly are. Young ladies who are settling for less than God's best for themselves--and those around them.

I know what they need.

It's not a handsome prince to come riding up on a white horse.

It's not a guy who can say all the right things.

It's not a fella with unlimited resources and a gifting heart.

It's not the man who can give her the attention and the admiration she's been longing for.

It's not someone who can make her feel pretty.

It's God.

Only God.

Nothing more than God--and certainly nothing less than God.

He can provide all she needs, all she wants, all she'll ever be able to hope for, and all she has no clue she will ever desire.

If a young woman (or any of us, for that matter) can find God, she (they) will live happily ever after.

TENSE
Today's reading: Psalm 140-142

"Surely the godly are praising your name, for they will live in your presence." Psalm 140:13 NLT

I'm a tense person.

No, not high strung, neck tendons bulging, eyes bugged out, kind of tense person...but one who, when reading the Bible, looks at the tense a verse is written in.

Like today's verse.

Shall we diagram a sentence? Oooh, I've not done that since Junior High school.

Surely-an adverb meaning in a confident way.

The godly-that's you and I. God followers. Born again Christians. Believers in the birth, death, resurrection and reign of Jesus Christ.

Are-present tense. Something you are currently involved in. What you are doing right now.

Praising-glorifying, exalting, extolling the virtues, singing the praises of.

Your name-the name of God, in this case. Jehovah. God Almighty. The King of Kings.

For-a preposition used to describe a place someone or something is going towards.

They-the godly, again.

Will-future tense. Something that is to happen. What is going to come to pass.

Live-really live, folks. Not just breathe and beat, but draw in the very presence of the Living God in all His glory.

In-a place.

Your-referring to God, again.

Presence-a noun meaning proximity, a place, near by or in the same location.

What I see is that we, believers, should be (present tense) praising Him because of where we will be (future tense) spending eternity.

Praise has nothing, absolutely nothing to do with circumstances, present or past, but everything to do with hope!

DEEP-SEATED RESPECT
Today's reading: Nehemiah 5-9

"...from early morning until noon and read aloud to everyone who could understand. All the people paid close attention to the Book of the Law...When they saw him open the book, they all rose to their feet." Nehemiah 8:3, 5 NLT

I take good care of my Bible. I don't leave it to linger in the car from Monday till Saturday. I don't use it as a coaster. I do write in it, but only things that touch my heart. I watch for curled pages and fix them. I have a special place for it on the shelf next to my prayer chair. It's going to be worn out, but not mis-used.

But reading what I have this morning has convicted me.

Do I value it to the extent to which I should?

Am I treating my time in its pages with the respect and honor due it?

Am I approaching Bible study with the attention and determination it deserves?

Am I quoting it with reverence, with power, with authority?

Am I praying over it each and every morning before I pass it on to you?

Am I thinking over each and every word as I jot down verses in a note or card?

Am I believing it? Truly believing it?

Am I in awe over the fact that God chooses to place these ancient, living, life-changing words into my hands and heart?

Am I allowing it to go deeper, much deeper, into me than just reading what it says?

Am I allowing myself to be improved by it every time I open its pages?

I've told kids, and any adults who would listen, for years that the Bible is my favorite book in the whole, wide world--is it just something I say, or do I prove it by how I use/read/stand on it?

BRINGING GUILT
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 23-25

"...You must not bring guilt upon the land the Lord your God is giving you as a special possession." Deuteronomy 24:4 NLT

These are instructions to the Israelites as they begin to inhabit their Promised Land. The land given to them from God. As a special gift. For their home.

He wants them to realize the enormity of this prize. He wants them to honor it. He wants them to come to grips with the love with which it was given.

He wants them to maintain its integrity.

I see that in all He has given to me...

The family He's blessed me with.

The home He's given me.

The church He's called me to be a part of.

The job He allows me to minister in.

The neighborhood He's called me to live out Christianity inside.

The community He's asked me to be a part of.

I must not bring guilt upon any of it. Because they are all gifts from Him. They are blessings straight from God's hand.

I don't want to dirty any of it with my own sins, make light of it's value in my heart, leave any of it untouched by His grace, refuse to acknowledge any of it as anything but expressions of His mercy in my life.

What about your 'land'?       

THIS
Today's reading: 1 John 4-5

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love..." 1 John 4:9-10 NLT

This verse makes me want to be a computer genius who could illustrate my devotion for today.

I wish I could animate some emojis.

I want so badly to be able to make flashing arrows and be able to draw your eye, and thoughts, to what I see this morning.

I'd have you read verse nine, then I'd apply my mad computer skills to the word 'this' as it points back to verse nine! I'd have you read verse nine again, and once again direct your attention as you approach verse ten to verse nine.

THIS (God's gift to us), friends, only THIS, is real love!

It's not the emotion we have for pizza, our kids or a favorite sweater.

It's not the stuff that sells Hallmark cards, roses in February or makes millionaires out of coffee-chain owners.

THIS, God's sacrifice of His only Son, is real love!

What are you doing with it?

ENCOURAGING
Today's reading: Acts 19-20

"Along the way, he encouraged the believers in all the towns he passed through..." Acts 20:2 NLT

I can imagine Paul in almost a different church every Sabbath.

New faces. Varying styles of worship. Different personalities.

And he encouraged in every one.

Makes me think about my plans for tomorrow.

I want to worship in song.

I want to hear God's Word proclaimed.

I want to pray with my Christian brothers and sisters.

I want to fellowship with other believers.

I want to gather as a united front against our enemy, satan.

But encourage?

Never really thought about it that way, but I want to do it.

And I don't know if it comes from an unselfish heart or not. You see when you encourage another, you are encouraged.

HE DOES NOT CHANGE
Today's reading: Malachi

"I am the Lord, and I do not change..." Malachi 3:6 NLT

Maybe your Thanksgiving table was different this year.

-A new addition to the family, little or big.
-A seat that was empty this year.
-A tension in the air that was never there before.
-A peace falling over the home where you celebrated that is new to the scene.

No matter how, there is probably some way your holiday is different from last year's.

Isn't it reassuring to know God doesn't change?

He's the same God who blessed Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

He's requiring the same allegiance from us as He did from Gideon.

He's changing lives today just as beautifully as He changed Saul's.

He's touching people.

He's accepting people.

He's still holy--and we cannot approach Him but through the blood of Jesus.

Nothing has changed about God.

THANKFUL FOR HIS WAYS
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 11-12

"God's ways are as hard to discern as the pathways of the wind, and as mysterious as a tiny baby being formed in a mother's womb." Ecclesiastes 11:5 NLT

We can look back over our life and scratch our heads in wonderment of how God worked out what He did, when He did and how He did.

We can look into present situations and have no clue as to what He will or can do to straighten things out.

We can worry over the future, what we don't understand or what scares us and harbor concern over whether or not He will come through for us.

But today?

Today look around the table at what He's done.

The faces.

The hearts.

The family.

His ways are mysterious and hard to discern until you look closely. Until you look deeply. Until you look with thankful hearts.

Seeing where He will go or what He will lead us through is hard, seeing where He is and has been is very, very easy.

YOUR HAND
Today's reading: Psalm 137-139

"You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You both precede and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head." Psalm 139:4-5 NLT

With tomorrow's holiday, I realize I am supposed to wax poetic and render you some words that will inspire, emote and humble you. Maybe you're expecting something you can print off and pass out to friends with a Thanksgiving blessing. Maybe you opened up your email wanting something inspirational and life-changing.

I get that, but here's what I have...

Lord,

I am full aware of your hand of blessing on me.

I cannot look, hear, smell, taste or touch without seeing all You have provided for me.

I know You are with me. I have experienced, first-hand, You going before me and following behind me.

I have to admit today's verse is what surprises me the most about Your love for me--that You know, even before I say it, what I'm going to say. And You love me anyway?

That's something for this loud-mouthed gal to be thankful for!

Another thing, Lord?

That hand of Yours that rests on my head, Your blessing hand? Is there any way You could slide it off my head and across my mouth more times than You do? Just to keep me from spewing unkind, untrue or unnecessary words? To keep my opinion to myself? To keep the condescending tone inside my head? To prevent me from mis-representing You in any way by what I say?

I mean, You do know what's about to come out (Your words, not mine)--don't You want to save us both some embarrassment?

Thanks and amen,
Malinda 

THE PATIENT PRAY-ER
Today's reading: Nehemiah 1-7

Nehemiah.

The name evokes awe. The account of his life stands as one to be admired. He's been called the wall-building, bending God's ear man.

He was a pray-er. Not just a before mealtime pray-er, but a from the bottom of his heart and about everything he did, pray-er.

I've always assumed, because he talked and walked with God, his prayers were answered immediately...and therefore gauged my own prayers (and the answers I'm still waiting for) against his and came up lacking. Sorely lacking.

But this morning God shone a light on a few words that reminded me that praying has less to do with the pray-er than it does about Him.

The first few lines of chapter one begin with, 'In late autumn...' That's when Nehemiah became aware of the trouble in Jerusalem. The last verse of chapter one tells us he prayed immediately for an opportunity to go before the king and seek help.

As I sometimes do, I jumped to the conclusion that because by the first verse of the second chapter he was standing before the king, holding his royal cup, his prayer was answered immediately.

But the first verse of chapter two says, 'Early the following spring...'

In my estimation that is a span of approximately, now this is based on the seasons in southern Illinois, at least 4 or 5 months. I'm thinking October to March or November to April.

Two thousand years ago or today, that's not immediate.

That encourages me.

That tells me that my own prayers need not just be persistent and based upon God's will--but also patient.

I'm going to keep praying. I'm going to keep seeking God in regards to some requests I'm wanting to see answered. I'm going to keep trusting that He will answer--in His time, in His way, in the season He believes to be best.

THE RAGING WAR
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 20-22

"When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The Lord your God who brought you safely out of Egypt, is with you...Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!" Deuteronomy 20:1, 4 NLT

There is a good chance that in comparison to the actual enemy you battle, war-ready horses and chariots would be like taking a walk in the park.

Maybe you're not even having to leave the house to fight your battle.

Quite possibly your battlefield moves with you, always present. Never giving you a break.

God is with you.

We are called to attend, to suit up for and to fight in these battles, but they are not battles we are called to win with our own resources.

He will.

Each and every time.

Without fail.

He wants you there to see how tough the battle was, how hard He fights for you and how victorious He is.

So, suit up. Prepare your heart and mind for battle. Walk out on to the battlefield. Prepare to be hurt. Plan on seeing the victory come at the hands of your Savior!

REALLY LOVE
Today's reading: 1 John 1-3

"Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other, let us really show it by our actions." 1 John 3:18 NLT

Really showing our love. That's a very tall order some days.

When we don't feel like it. When they don't deserve it. When our feelings have been hurt beyond repair. When our heart is showing on our face and everyone can tell.

And yet, we are asked to do it.

For our brothers and sisters. For ourselves. For our church. For Him.

UNKNOWN GOD
Today's reading: Acts 17-18

"...I notice that you are very religious, for as I was walking along I saw your many altars. And one of them had this inscription on it--To an Unknown God'. You have been worshiping him without knowing who he is, and now I wish to tell you about him." Acts 17:22-23 NLT

I've told you about the high school field trip last week to the sculpture park, the art museum and to the Basilica Cathedral. What I'd held in to this point is what happened at the church...and it's been hard to hold, but upon reading this portion of Scripture, I thought it time to tell...

Keep in mind, I'm having to keep an identity under wraps and not reveal too much.

My son has attended school with another student since kindergarten. This student is a lovely person, very friendly, very mannerly and always very pleasant. I have been privileged to come to know this child's parents over the years.

This student's family is from another country and follow a religion very foreign to me. Very foreign to me. I've spent a few hours over the past 10 years or so talking to the mom about general subjects and at times our personal worship practices. Nothing deep, just passing conversations.

At the beautiful cathedral we stopped at, this same student told me they'd never been in a church before. That's hard for me to understand. Fifteen years old, having been in the United States since an infant, living in a small town and never been in a church?

I made comment that I had been in alot of churches but never this one, and I knew they would really enjoy it. I also gave this student the opportunity to walk with me if it would make them feel more comfortable. The student did for a while, then wandered off with other students.

As we were in line to board the bus to leave the cathedral, this student approached me...

I asked if they had had a good time. Yes, it was beautiful.

I asked if it was informative. Yes, I found out alot of things.

I asked what all they saw. I went to the gift shop they replied.

In a box held in the student's hand was what they had purchased. I asked about it. I was told it was a small ceramic sculpture wrapped in bubble wrap for the trip home.

I said don't unwrap it, just tell me what it looks like.

I was told it's a family. A man, a woman and a baby.

My skin got goosebumps.

I said do you know who they are?

No, I was told.

The father's name is Joseph. The mother's name is Mary. The baby is Jesus.

At that point I looked into the student's eyes and said, That baby grew up to be my Savior and Redeemer. Their eyes lit up.

At that point a large group of kids came up and called out to this student.

The conversation was over...maybe.

I had the opportunity to tell a student at a school-sanctioned event about Jesus. I couldn't tell this student the whole story. I couldn't explain all I knew. I couldn't lead this child in a prayer of salvation.

But I believe a seed was planted.

I cannot wait to see this student again!!!

Who might you be able to tell about our God today.   

FINISH THE TASK!
Today's reading: Zechariah 8-14

"This is what the Lord almighty says: Take heart and finish the task!.." Zechariah 8:9 NLT

This dingy, dark, falling apart world is full of quitters.

It's littered with people who have given up and thrown in the towel.

The ones working the hardest are exhausted because there is no one sitting on the bench to give them a break.

I'm determined finish the task God has given me. The task of being a light in a dark world and salt to the lives of those needing godly seasoning.

Is it hard? You better believe it!

Is it always fun? Nope.

Do I sometimes feel like giving up? Yes, no doubt about it, yes.

But then I think about all the people over the past years that I've proclaimed Him to, who I've touted the benefits of following God to, who I've reached in Sunday School, Bible School and with a crazy blog--and I realize His words today are for me!

I don't want a small child coming back to me in their adulthood and find me not serving and believing. I don't want to be caught no longer in the faith. I don't want to be found later in life not having continued in the beliefs of this Bible I hold so dear. I don't want it to ever be said of me, 'What about all you told us about Him?'

I want to be a finisher. I'm going to tough it out. I'm going to do all He asks. I'm planning on being who it is He has created me to be--and trust Him.

IN THIS LIFE
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 9-10

"This, too, I carefully explored. Even though the actions of godly and wise people are in God's hands, no one knows whether or not God will show them favor in this life." Ecclesiastes 9:1 NLT

So good, and bad, may fall both into the lives of godly folks and outright sinners.

We've all seen it happen.

We've watched, while scratching our heads, as a too-sad-to-understand story line unfolds in the life of a saint and a downfall is dropped into the life of a scoundrel.

It makes no sense.

None what so ever.

But my focus this morning is not on the fairness of it, the right or wrong of it, the ability to understand it--my eyes went directly to the last three words of this verse...

"...in this life."

When we, as His children, remind ourselves that 'this' is not all there is--we can be comforted, if even for a short, painful time as we watch the plots unfold for our lives, knowing they've been written and appointed by God.

MY GOD
Today's reading: Psalm 134-136

"Their idols are merely thing of silver and gold, shaped by human hands. They cannot talk, though they have mouths, or see, though they have eyes. They cannot hear with their ears or smell with their noses. And those who make them are just like them, as are all who trust in them." Psalm 135:15-18 NLT

I don't depend upon a statuette perched on a shelf.

My hope doesn't hang on a cast reproduction of something or someone.

What gives me peace is not something that has been mass-produced or manufactured.

The One who changed me, forgave me, provides me with eternity is not merely human.

He speaks to my heart. He sees my future, He is my future. He hears when I call. He smells the fragrance of my feebly attempted sacrifices of praise.

In God, I trust.


 

PERSONAL INTEREST
Today's reading: Ezra 6-10

"Then they will be able to offer acceptable sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for me and my sons." Ezra 6:10 NLT

King Darius had uncovered old documents stating the government was to assist in the rebuilding of the Temple.

He was adamant it be done.

He was specific in giving the orders.

He made it very plain that no one in his cabinet would stand in the way of the construction process.

He was even determined to foot the bill.

Was he religious? No.

Was he Jewish? No.

Was he even going to be allowed inside the Temple when it was completed? No, probably not.

But he knew the influence it would have on him, on his reign, on the lives of his sons.

So he supported the church.

The church is where folks turn when the bottom falls out of life. The church is where people turn when there is a catastrophe. The church is where people go when they find out the world offers nothing--no peace, no hope, no life.  The church is where people run when their lives turn upside-down.

We have to be ready, Church.

A FESTIVAL OF HARVEST
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 16-19

"...Bring him a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings you have received from him." Deuteronomy 16:10 NLT

Lord,

If this coming Sunday were to be the day set aside for me to honor You and the blessings You have poured into my life, then I have a list of things to do...

-I must lease a fleet of semi-trucks.
-I must rent as many U-hauls as I can get my hands on.
-I must borrow every single pick-up truck I know of.
-I must get several of those box-trucks many warehouses now use.
-I will have to hire some drivers.

You see, Lord, if I were to give back to You in proportion to all You have given to me--I'd need a convoy of trucks to haul in my offering!

I think I'm a thankful believer. I am very much aware of all You blessed me with. And yet, it renders me speechless when I come face to face with how to 'really' thank You for all You have done.

My heart is as full as my life this morning. I'm overwhelmed with the blessings You've provided.

In my wildest imaginations, I cannot come up with sufficient ways to show You my gratitude. I can't think of anything that would truly and completely give You the praise You deserve. I couldn't purchase/rent/borrow/lease enough trucks!

So, I'll attempt to live my life for you.

Your Grateful Child,
Malinda

CONTROL
Today's reading: 2 Peter

"...For you are a slave to whatever controls you." 2 Peter 2:19 NLT

You know what it is. That certain thing that keeps you from complete surrender. That thought, habit or sound-bite from your past that continues to keep you chained. Enslaved.

They vary from person to person, much like the chains of DNA. They are unique to each individual, and yet they are common to man--so common that we all required a Savior.

They bind. They chain. They tie us down. They keep us from rising. They dilute life. They fog the senses.

So, what is it? Your thing?

Want to give it to God?

TIMELESS
Today's reading: Acts 15-16

"We believe that we are all saved the same way, by the special favor of the Lord Jesus." Acts 15:11 NLT

I spent all of yesterday gawking over old things...

Mosaics, an art form from the 4th century, in beautiful cathedral built in 1907. A baldachino, an elaborate altar I've come to find out, using pillars of stone from seven different continents. Wooden pews that have only gained in a deep glow from all these years of use.

Walking through many corridors of art in a museum. There were paintings by Picasso and Monet--and many others I'd never heard of. Pieces of art preserved, maintained and valued. Security systems set in place to prevent us from just reaching over and touching them.

And this morning I'm in an old book. Sure, the one I hold in my hand was pulled off the printing press in 1996, but the original manuscript dates back thousands of years. Its pages reveal to me life in a different time and place. Its verses provide me with peace, joy and hope.

Like today's verse.

I'm in awe that I can stand in an old church, gaze upon old paintings and hold near to my heart a book written so long ago--but what really touches my soul is that I'm saved by the same power--the power of Jesus Christ, that it refers to!

The same power by which Saul/Paul was saved.

The same power that saved Peter, forgave Peter and drew him back in.

The same power that changed Zaccheus' life.

The same power that changed a centurion's life.

The same power that reached back and touched the woman with the issue of blood.

The same power that met a woman at a Samaritan well.

I've been saved by the timeless power of Jesus' blood!

Old things look new and exciting to me this morning.

WHY I DO IT
Today's reading: Zechariah 1-7

"The Lord Almighty sent me this message, Say to all your people and your priests, During these seventy years of exile, when you fasted and mourned in the summer and at the festival in early autumn, was it really for me that you were fasting?" Zechariah 7:4-5 NLT

Do I do what I do for You, Lord?

Do I gather with other believers for You?

Do I bow for you?

Do I serve to bring You glory?

Do I lead a godly life because of the benefits it brings, or for You?

Am I staying away from sin because You ask it, or is it because I've found it benefits me?

Or do I do what I do out of habit? Routine? To look good around others? Because it's always been done in a certain way and at a certain time?

Zechariah asked the people, and the priests, just what You asked him to ask--Just why are you doing what you're doing?

Thanks for asking me the same question this morning.

TAKE IT TO THE BANK
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 7-8

"Being wise is as good as being rich; in fact, it is better. Wisdom or money can get you almost anything, but it's important to know that only wisdom can save your life." Ecclesiastes 7:11-12 NLT

Aaah, the value of age.

You see, there was a time, many years ago, that I wouldn't have agreed completely with this portion of Scripture.

Based on what I knew to be true...

...You couldn't walk up to the sales counter at any store and ask them to bag up your purchases because you were wise. No money exchanging hands. Wisdom being the only currency needed.

...Rich meant champagne (sparkling cider, in my case) and caviar(name brand cinnamon toast cereal, in my case) for breakfast every day in a monstrous mansion.

...Comfort, as in nice cars, nice clothes and no budgets, came from money--not from using the knowledge given to you.

But now?

Now I realize how right Solomon was!

Wisdom provides me with all I need--when I seek God's will and not my own.

Wisdom fills my stomach and warms my heart as I face the day surrounded by His blessings munching on generic cereal under a roof provided by Him.

Wisdom releases my mind from worries as I trust completely and solely on God.

Wisdom makes me aware of all I have.

Wisdom allows me to see the difference in temporary value and eternal value.

Yes, at this point in my life, I'll take wisdom over riches any day of the week!

AGENTS OF SALVATION
Today's reading: Psalm 131-133

"Your priests will be agents of salvation..." Psalm 132:9 NLT

"I will make its priests the agents of salvation;.." Psalm 132:16 NLT

Funny thing, Bible translations. How modern terms, at times, line up quite nicely--and at other times, there is little correlation between what was written thousands of years ago and what we say or understand now.

Take these verses, for instance.

In the King James Version, these verses state that the priests 'shall be clothed in righteousness'. In the New Living Translation, 'agents of salvation'.

Have these words been chosen because we, in 2015, don't know what clothing of righteousness look like? What would that uniform look like? Is the clothing of righteousness even made these days?

Have we come to accept the idea of 'agents' as something stalwart, steady, unmoving, completely backing their beliefs? Do you, like me, picture the dark suits, the dark glasses, the behind the scenes, sly movements of the agents we've watched on television? Do you think of someone representing another, an 'unknown'?  Do you think of a sold-out, no-matter-what-I'll-serve-till-the-end servant?

An agent of God dressed in clothing of righteousness--would that describe any one of us?

God has appointed this whole life to be all as a race or a battle; the state of rest, wherein we shall be so out of danger as to have no need of watching and fighting, is for another world.- Jonathan Edwards

CARD-CARRYING MEMBERS
Today's reading: Ezra 1-5

"Three families of priests--Hobaiah, Hakkoz and Barzillai--also returned to Jerusalem. (This Barzillai had married a woman who was a descendant of Barzillai of Gilead, and he had taken her family name.) But they had lost their genealogical records, so they were not allowed to serve as priests." Ezra 2:61-62 NLT

Maybe your Grand-daddy's daddy served in your church.

Maybe your family was one of the founders of your local house of worship.

Maybe you've contributed to each and every building project since the turn of the century.

Maybe there's a wing of your church's complex named after you, or at least your family.

What if that were all erased, those records lost, those bits of history forgotten...

What if no one knew you, or about you, or which family you came from?

Would your life be sufficient proof of your relationship to God?

Would you be recognized as His, even if you'd lost your 'card'?

NINETY-EIGHT DAYS AWAY

The cat is out of the bag. It's been a tough critter to keep in there, I have to admit! I've been sitting on this news, this God-sized news, since mid-May.

Not knowing how to share it.

Not wanting it to sound boastful.

Not wanting to draw attention to myself.

Not wanting to rush in, like I have been known to commonly do.

Here it is, if you've not heard (read)...

In ninety-eight days I will be boarding an airplane and flying to Israel. The Holy Lands. The land where my Bible, and yours, came to be.

I will admit there are so many emotions welled up inside me.

Firstly, gratitude. A deep-seated desire to go on a trip like this had been growing inside my heart and mind for the past almost 7 years. Members from my church, Pittsburg Free Will Baptist, have gone a few times before and I struggled with being excited for each traveler--thrilled for them, yet inside burning with envy. It was a request only God and I knew about. It was beyond any and all abilities I had to make it happen, so I never shared it with a soul. But my parents, I truly believe, led by God have gifted me with the trip. And as a cherry on top of a hot fudge sundae might have, I'll be traveling with some very dear to my heart Christian brothers and sisters!

Secondly, anticipation. I want to soak it all in. All of it. ALL of it. I want to experience the whole experience! I want to take a million pictures. I want to journal every step we take. I want to blog across the miles. I want to go as a sponge ready to soak every ounce of the opportunity into my pores. I don't want to miss a single thing. I want to be awed. I want to be spell bound. I want to stand speechless in every nook and cranny of Israel. I want to be able to share all I've seen/done/tasted/touched/smelled/felt with so many others.  

Thirdly, anxiety. The thought of a 14 hour flight doesn't bother me. The fear of visiting a country in unrest doesn't keep me up at night. The very idea of attempting to pack for 10 days and keep it under fifty pounds is daunting but do-able, thanks to Pinterest! What I'm most anxious about is who I'll be when I return. I DO NOT intend to come back the same person. I want to be changed. I want to be filled. I want to be seeing with different eyes, loving with a different heart and beholding things, especially my Bible, in a different way. I want to be a better wife, mom, daughter, sister, Sunday School teacher, church member, Christian.

So, if you would, please pray.

Our flight leaves St Louis on Monday, February 15th, 2016. Our tour is jam-packed with things to do and things to experience. I hope to post an itinerary of the 10 days before I leave. I want you all going with me via this very blog. I'm intending to post each day, filling you in, letting you know, carting you all along with me in a sense. We will be returning to the US on Wednesday, February 25th.

There it is. My over the top, could only come from God, I've been holding it in for a looonnnngggg time news.

Rejoice with me over being a recipient of a blessing straight from the hand of God!

Ninety-eight days and counting,
Malinda    

PROVING GROUNDS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 13-15

"...The Lord your God is testing you to see if you love him with all your heart and soul." Deuteronomy 13:3 NLT

The passage warns about idolatry.

It is very implicit in regards to what the children of Israel must do about things that tempt them to wander away from God.

Even the smallest things.

Even the tiniest of temptations.

Things will happen that draw our hearts away from God.

Good things.

Lives that unintentionally become crazy, hectic and godless.

Ministries that keep us from worship.

Rules and regulations that keep us from loving.

Abilities that keep you from giving Him all the glory.

We will all be faced with things that bear the marks of proving to God if He is our Lord, or not.

What might it be today? Who might it be today? How might it happen today? When might you be faced with it? Where will it occur?

A HARD ROW TO HOE
Today's reading: 1 Peter 4-5

"So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you are willing to suffer for Christ, you have decided to stop sinning." 1 Peter 4:1 NLT

I'm thrilled to report that according to this verse, and what God speaks to my heart about it, I'm not called to be perfect--just called to be uncomfortable with sin in my life.

But I have to admit, and if you've served Christ any length of time, I think you'll agree...

Denying one's self is unnatural.

Pushing aside temptation is hard to do.

Overruling the 'old man' is a constant battle.

Not giving in to satan's tactics will require a constant flexing of the muscles of self-control and a bending of the knees in prayer.

Not sinning, or continuing in sin to be precise, is going to be the hardest thing you'll ever do.

But when you do it, you're proving to yourself, to satan, to the witnesses of your faith and to God that you're determined to not make light of the work of the Cross.
  

FOR YOU
Today's reading: Acts 13-14

"Brothers--you sons of Abraham, and also all of you devout Gentiles who fear the God of Israel--this salvation is for us!" Acts 13:26 NLT

I notice a few things about Paul's words...

1.  He was excited to share the Gospel message. Notice the exclamation point?

2.  He was speaking to church folks. He could have assumed they knew. He could have gone on the assumption that they were 'good people'. He brought the message to the church people, who were supposed to know it already. He even spoke it to the blood-relatives of Christ!

3.  He included himself. He did not separate himself. He did not let them think he was exempt from the need of Christ's forgiveness. He was not selling them something he himself had not tasted for himself.

Makes me think about what I'm sharing. Who I'm sharing it with. With that intensity I'm sharing. Why I'm sharing what I'm sharing. If I'm sharing at all.

PROCRASTINATION
Today's reading: Haggai

"This is what the Lord Almighty says: The people are saying, The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord's house--the Temple." Haggai 1:2 NLT

I don't believe I am a procrastinator.

When there is work to be done, I like to get the worst done first (Eat the frog, it's called).

I attempt to prepare things in advance.

I'm not a 'put-it-off' kind of person.

I'm even partially packed for a trip I am making 101 days from today!

But I read, and re-read, this verse and I've been convicted of some things I've been putting off...

Like when I'd prefer to know what's going on on Facebook instead of the Holy Book.

Or when what He asks me to do for another gets put off until a more convenient time.

Or the times I've postponed praying until I can 'get in my prayer closet'.

Or when I've needed to approach a friend in Christ with what I've done wrong and ask their forgiveness and I just don't feel like doing it now.

Or when breaking a stronghold might be easier to tackle another day--another week--another month.

Or when my own temple repairs need done but laziness creeps in.

So, I'm thinking this morning about becoming less of a procrastinator of spiritual things.

And that's something I really don't want to put off!
  

I'M LISTENING
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 5-6

"As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut!.." Ecclesiastes 5:1 NLT

I'll let you in on the routine I follow each and every morning.

-My alarm goes off at 4:45.
-I shower, dress and apply as much make-up as I deem necessary to keep the world from being offended by the 'real me'.
-I drink 24 ounces of water.
-I pray over my sleeping boy.
-I write in my prayer journal.
-I open my Bible to the day's reading.
-I put my Bible aside and bow in front of my prayer chair asking God to come into my time with Him.
-I read the Word, watching for things He points out to me.
-I open up my computer and share with you what He's spoken to my heart, or what's happened lately that ties in with the day's Scripture, or what He and I have decided we're to work on that day (and probably the rest of my life).

Today, I don't want to share.

I really don't.

It's too personal.

It was written for me--might as well have had my picture pasted beside the verse.

It got too close to my heart and is going to hurt, or at the very least be very unnatural and possibly uncomfortable, as I carry out what I believe He's asking me to do.

Keep quiet when I go to worship. Listen more when I go to church. Talk less, only I believe He spoke to my heart, MUCH less when I gather with my brothers and sisters in Christ.

No, I'll not be going into church Sunday not speaking to anyone. That would be going against His desire that we be a family, a body, in one spirit with Him. I could hardly facilitate the Sunday School class I'm thrilled to be a part of. I thoroughly enjoy greeting new folks in our congregation.

But I believe I need to listen more and give opinion less. Listen more and provide fewer commentaries that I usually do. Listen more and offer His words, not my own. Listen more and cultivate the ministry of hearing what's said. Listen more and practice the art of conversation not of taking over the microphone. Listen more to what's being said and the heart issues behind it.

It can be summed up by me just listening more. Really listening.

I don't know what you'll do with what I'm sharing this morning. It doesn't matter to me. You might take it to heart as well. You might hold me accountable come Sunday. You might send me a report card after services as to how I did. You might pray for me--because you know me--because you know my propensity to fill in awkward quiet times with my incessant rattling--because you might have the same inclinations. You might notice I'm listening more and talking less, and that would thrill my heart!

COUNTING ON THE LORD
Today's reading: Psalm 128-130

"I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word." Psalm 130:5 NLT

I have an independent streak a mile wide and a yard thick. I admit, I don't like asking for help. I truly enjoy the blessing of being a help to someone, but to be helped--it hurts my pride.

That being said, I am counting on God for a few things above and beyond my abilities to do for myself, begin on my own or even believe enough to hope for.

I have some prayer requests between He and I that go deeper and farther than the abilities of my faith.

I have some mountains being moved that no one else around me even sees.

I'm waiting on Him to do a mighty miracle, because I know that's the only way my requests will be answered.

I'm needing Him desperately in regards to more than a few heart matters.

I'm counting on Him to come through. Again.

My hope, my only hope, is in Him.

BUT...
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 33-36

"However, the people still sacrificed at the pagan shrines, but only to the Lord their God." 2 Chronicles 33:17 NLT

Lord,

I asked You for something to renew my mind.

I asked for You to provide me with something to change my thinking.
 
I asked You to give me a word to share, only after it touched my heart and soul.

I asked, and this was in the 'fine print' of my prayer--that what You opened in my heart not hurt too badly.

It did. It cut. It exposed. It spot-lighted a part of me that I'd just as soon have kept in the shadows.

Your Word has shown me how very easily I have allowed sin to settle in my heart.

How easily I can add a 'but' to any of my attempts and make them sound sincere and righteous.

The people in Manasseh's time kept their pagan shrines, but worshipped God there--thinking it would okay a slight bit of disobedience(2 Chronicles 32:12). The people thought if they'd put a 'church spin' on a wordly thing, it would make it look good in Your eyes. The rules You gave them they followed--mostly.

That opened my eyes to what I'm doing myself. What I'm trying to make permissible. What I'm trying to re-name. What I'm attempting to gussy-up and make godly. What I take a whack at thinking it's good enough, close enough or at least better than Sister So-And-So's attempt at it. What I know You are calling me to do but (oooh, there's that word), I don't do because I see the circumstances as not warranting full and complete obedience(You understand, don't You, Lord? I mean, if things were different. If it didn't involve You-know-who.).

When I read this verse, Lord, I saw that in so many ways my disobedience to Your commands screams, 'I know better than You!'

That's not sitting well on my heart. It's making me uncomfortable. It's exposing a naked truth--one I'd have just as soon kept the wraps on.

So, for giving me just what I didn't think I wanted in a package I'd just have soon not had to open--thank You, Lord.

Thank You.

CLING
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 10-12

"You must fear the Lord your God and worship him and cling to him." Deuteronomy 10:20 NLT

It's more than a friendly relationship.

More than a high five in passing.

Much more than the occasional 9-1-1 cry for help.

More than a cordial thank you.

More than a quick mention before eating.

More than a visit on Sunday.

It's an admiration. It's an awe. It's a relationship built upon the simple fact that we are in desperate need of a Savior!

KINDNESS
Today's reading: 1Peter 1-3

"Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate when people say unkind  things about you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it." 1 Peter 3:9 NLT

Kill them with kindness the older folks would say.

Bless the socks off them.

RECOGNIZING HIS ANSWERS
Today's reading: Acts 11-12

"He knocked at the door in the gate, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to open it. When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the door, she ran back inside and told everyone, Peter is standing at the door! You're out of your mind, they said. When she insisted, they decided, It must be his angel." Acts 12:13-16 NLT

You'll have to read the whole account, Acts 12:1-18, to realize the extent of this portion of Scripture, but allow me to sum it up this way...

They were praying.

They were praying hard.

They had been praying all together.

They had asked God to help Peter.

They were asking God to show Himself to them.

And when God answered, they couldn't believe it. Or wouldn't believe it. Or the skeptical side of their minds said they shouldn't believe it.

Ever been there yourself?

Ever asked and asked and asked--and when He answered, you couldn't believe it, didn't recognize it or wouldn't allow yourself to hope that this was indeed the answer you'd asked Him for?

Do we even recognize His answers?

 

REAL HOLIDAYS
Today's reading: Zephaniah

I'm not a fan of Halloween. That being said, everywhere I look, it's evident a lot of folks are. Like I said, I am not, so I've asked God to distract my eyes and heart from it's hoopla during the next few days.

And He came through...

"For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior, He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exalt over you by singing a happy song." Zephaniah 3:17 NLT

No matter what the world celebrates, what is popularized by Wal-Mart, the media and the social networks or what happens one day of the year--this verse has to be acknowledged.

He has come.

He is here.

He will continue once decorations are put away, sales are ended and the next 'holiday' is being advertised.

ETERNITY
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 3-4

"God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end." Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

As His created we are filled with anticipation and angst for future things.

We are wired with a desire for heaven and a dread for what we must endure before getting there.

We have an innate longing for eternity with our Lord combined with flesh that is seduced by this world and its trappings.

He created us with a spirit intended for eternal praise in His presence and with a mission to reach the lost while on our pilgrimage.

He has given us blessed hope in our secure future interwoven with a faith in the unseen.

We all have souls only He can satisfy battling character traits that seek independence and self-sufficiency.

We hunger and thirst after Him even after attempting to busy ourselves with less holy pursuits.

In the end, and I believe this is where Solomon was going with his thoughts, God is God...and we are still only, but blessedly, His created.

SONGS OF HARVEST
Today's reading: Psalm 125-127

"Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest." Psalm 126:5-6 NLT

The little yellow kernels were placed in the dark brown earth. The tiny green sprouts appeared. The tall vibrant stalks reached for the sky. The ears developed, filling out as they grew.

And now?

We are awaiting the hum of the combines and semi-trucks, grain haulers and tractors. The songs of the harvest. The funeral dirge for things that have died.

Yes, that's what the corn has to do in order that it might be harvested--die.

And sometimes, as this psalmist writes, there are things inside us that must die in order that a harvest of righteousness be enjoyed.

Things that hurt.

Things that don't make sense.

Things that need to be released.

Things that we're completely comfortable with.

Things that require more energy, effort and time on our knees than we thought we had to give.

I think of the things I thought I had figured out and under control--and how He amazed me when I turned control over to Him. The things retaining my fingerprints from holding too tightly. The things I thought I could maneuver and manipulate. The things I didn't want to bother Him with. The things I'd just as soon not release to Him.

I think of the tears I've shed as I 'planted' those things into His care--and the songs of harvest I sang at the tops of my lungs as He did His work in them!

There is no blessed way of living, than the life of faith upon a covenant-keeping God - to know that we have no care, for he cares for us; that we need have no fear, except to fear him; that we need have no troubles, because we have cast our burdens upon the Lord, and are conscious that he will sustain us.            -- C. H. Spurgeon

I ASKED FOR IT
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 29-32

I asked for it, Lord. I know that.

I bowed before my prayer chair and in no uncertain terms asked you to make Your Word come alive to me in a special way this morning.

I asked You to speak to me through the pages of the Bible.

I asked You to talk directly to my heart.

I asked You to skim the dross off the top of my heart.

And You answered. Boy, oh boy, did You answer.

And I'm taking it like a big spoon of yucky-tasting medicine--because I know I need it and I know it's come from You.

"Do not be stubborn, as they are, but submit yourselves to the Lord. Come to his Temple which he has set apart as holy forever. Worship the Lord your God so that his fierce anger will turn away from you." 2 Chronicles 30:8 NLT

I looked up the word 'stubborn', since it seemingly jumped off the page at me and became imprinted in my heart...

refusing to change your ideas or to stop doing something; difficult to deal with, remove, handle or manage; unreasonably or perversely unyielding; firmly set in one's ways 

That's me. Anyone who knows me, knows that's me.

In attempting to be unlike 'them', I was floating along in the same boat 'they' were in. In praying that I'd be more like You, my unchanging heart and ways made me more like the Pharisees and the Sadducees you speak against...unchanging, unyielding, unmanageable. In seeking to honor You I'd settled into habits and routines that were comfortable but not worshipful. In taking a stand I'd forgotten on Whom I stood and how often You bent in service and love.

So, thank You. For hearing my prayer. For speaking to the matter at hand. For loving me enough to point out what needs fixing--no, removed. For giving me the gift of the Holy Spirit to make the changes needed. For allowing Your Word to come alive again.

BECAUSE
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 7-9

"The Lord did not choose you and lavish his love on you because you were larger or greater than others nations. For you were the smallest of all nations! It was simply because the Lord loves you..." Deuteronomy 7:7-8 NLT

I don't know who you think you are.

I don't know what all you think you've accomplished.

I don't know the resume you bring to your relationship with God.

But I know this, you and I are in the same boat--unworthy of His love, unable to receive His love apart from Him, incapable of fathoming the extent of His love for us.

The only, the only, reason we're in this personal relationship with God is that He has loved us into it!

  

BRINGING THEM BACK
Today's reading: James 4-5

"My dear brothers and sisters, if anyone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back again, you can be sure that the one who brings that person back will save that sinner from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins." James 5:19-20 NLT

Who can you bring back into the fold today?

Whose hearts can you apply a healing balm to today?

Which former believer can you welcome back today?

To whom can you be more than a Christian today, but be a little Christ?

SEEING WITH GOD EYES
Today's reading: Acts 9-10

"All who heard him were amazed, Isn't this the same man who persecuted Jesus' followers with such devastation in Jerusalem?.." Acts 9:21 NLT

Saul, turned Paul, was eyed as the enemy even after his conversion. Even after he spoke with great authority and sincerity as to the conversion he'd experienced. Even after having gone through what he did.

People still looked at him through their own eyes, not through God's.

Will we do it tomorrow in church?

Will we see gals who 'used to...'?

Will we see men who 'used to...'?

Will we see changed lives serving our loving and forgiving God who 'used to...'?

Will we see the old person or the new creation God has placed inside them?

If we think about it, which would you prefer they see in you?

IN THE LORD
Today's reading: Habakkuk

"Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the field and the cattle barns are empty, yet will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation." Habakkuk 3:17-18 NLT

I heard this quoted by a television evangelist as I surfed the channels last night and now I'm faced with it in black and white this morning...might be a clue as to my need to stop and rest on this verse, to chew on it a while, to let it soak in to my heart.

Joy. Real joy. From the inside of me reaching to the outside of me, kind of joy.

Because it's nothing to do with what He does for us--the balances in our checkbooks, the status of our barns, the blessings He chooses to pour into our lives.

It's not about things going well for me. It's nothing to do with His provision in my life.

It has nothing at all to do with how I feel, how the doctors say I should feel, how the world leads me to believe I should feel.

Joy, real joy, only comes when my focus is centered on Who He is.

"...rejoice in the Lord..."

"...be joyful in the God of my salvation..."

I have to make sure I'm centering my contentedness on Him, not His blessings on me.

What about you? What are you rejoicing in? Him or what He has given you?



 

MEANINGLESS
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 1-2

"But as I looked at everything I worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless. It was like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere." Ecclesiastes 2:11 NLT

I've felt as Solomon felt in this verse.

Disgusted.

Discouraged.

Like I was spinning my wheels in my attempts.

I've sat and surveyed some of the things I've thrown myself in to--and he is right, it all looked so meaningless.

And then I think, and I believe it's only by the Holy Spirit's leading, about what's already been done...

God sent His Son to die on a cross for me, spend three days in a borrowed tomb and rise again!

That's what been done--and everything beyond that is in response to it.

There is nothing I can do to compare.

There is nothing I can do to top that.

So how I live, what I spend my time doing, the legacy I might leave is, only by the grace of God, my reaction to what has already been done by my Savior.

So, yes, when compared to the cross of Christ, everything I do is meaningless, but worshipful.        

IF IT HAD NOT BEEN

Today's reading: Psalm 122-124

"If the Lord had not been on our side--let Israel now say--if the Lord had not been on our side when people rose up against us, they would have swallowed us alive because of their burning anger against us. The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed is." Psalm 124:1-4 NLT

Lord, it scares me to think where I would be today if You had not been on my side.

The long nights were so dark, the storms pounded the ship of my faith, the mountains were too steep for me to climb on my own.

Your love and grace are all that have rescued me from my sins.

Your sustaining power has kept me close to Your side.

If You had not been on my side--I will say to all who will listen--I am afraid of where and who I might be today.

KEY TO SUCCESS
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 25-28

"God helped him not only with his wars against the Philistines, but also in his battles with the Arabs of Gur and in his wars with the Meunites." 2 Chronicles 26:7 NLT

The 'him' refers to King Uzziah.

The 'why' is based solely upon what we can find just a few verses preceding this bit of information...

"...And as long as the king sought the Lord, God gave him success." 2 Chronicles 26:5 NLT

Maybe you feel like you're spinning your wheels in conquering your fears, laying aside your doubts and remaining victorious over your temptations.

Are you seeking God in regards to all of it?

Not just in the worst cases. Not only after expending all your effort and energy. Not just on Sundays and in regards to the holy wars of our hearts.

Are you seeking Him, His guidance, His instruction, His leading, His direction, His plans in regards to all your wars, your battles, your skirmishes, your arguments and your disagreements?

We won't find success if we don't.

OBEDIENCE
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 4-6

"Do not add to or subtract from these commands I am giving you from the Lord your God. Just obey them." Deuteronomy 4:2 NLT

"For we are righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us." Deuteronomy 6:25 NLT

Let me state up front, so that there is no question, so that you know there is no doubt--I wouldn't have picked these verses this morning for any reason.

They are heavy for a Monday morning. They are heart-pricking for a strong-willed gal like myself. They are too straight forward to be overlooked, made light of or disregarded.

They are just what I need. And, there are two of them--not just one!

You see, God and I have been having a battle of the wills here lately. Well, not so much Him--but you probably guessed that.

I want to obey Him. I truly do. But I want to do it when His ways and directions line up with what I want to do.

There, I said it. Obedience is easy for me when it goes along with my bent, my plans and my personality. Obeying Him is fun when the rewards are immediately poured into my life. Doing just what He asks is thrilling when the impact you made is evident as you are doing it. Following His lead is exciting when all things fall into place in my heart and my head.

But when it's a matter of doing it because He says? When obedience is not quickly rewarded? When following His instructions goes against everything in me? When the control is taken from my grasp and turned over to Him?

I'll be chewing on this morsel for the remainder of the week...savoring it some moments, choking it down others!

  

ONE LITTLE SIN
Today's reading:  James 1-3

"And the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as the one who has broken all of the laws." James 2:10 NLT

One little sin makes me as guilty as them, Lord?

One?

Even the grudge I believe I have the right to hold?

The bitterness they have caused me to have?

The scars I hear because of their thoughtlessness?

One little sin does make me like them...desperately in need of You.

THE REAL REASON
Today's reading: Acts 7-8

"When Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given when the apostles placed their hands upon people's heads, he offered money to buy this power. Let me have this power, too, he exclaimed, so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit." Acts 8:18-19 NLT

Why did Simon want this special power?

He said so that people would receive the Holy Spirit. That is admirable. That is evangelistic. That is a godly pursuit.  But was it that he wanted them to receive the Spirit, or that he wanted the accolades that would come with being the vessel it traveled through?

It sure makes me think about my own motives. The reasons I do things. The requests I present to God. The deep-down desires of my heart.

What about you?