Word of the year: WITH
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is WITH you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
12/31/2021 — Luke 2:13-14
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!””
Luke 2:13-14 — New King James Version
Yesterday I pointed out how God interrupts our lives and takes us along His path. Well, there’s nothing saying we can’t interrupt our own lives to just sit back and praise God! We don’t have to wait for Sunday praise service or for something that we think is wonderful to happen! Praise Him where I am! Interrupt my day to just give glory to God in the highest!
12/30/2021 — Luke 2:8-9
“That night, in a field near Bethlehem, there were shepherds watching over their flocks. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared in radiant splendor before them, lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God, and the shepherds were terrified!”
Luke 2:8-9 — The Passion Translation
“Suddenly” something interrupts our lives.
“Aghh! I’m so busy and THIS happens!”
God works this way and He doesn’t wait for our schedule. The shepherds let God’s plan take priority over their own chores. How about me?
12/29/2021 — Psalm 18:30
“What a God you are! Your path for me has been perfect! All your promises have proven true. What a secure shelter for all those who turn to hide themselves in you! You are the wrap-around God giving grace to me.”
Psalms 18:30 — The Passion Translation
I can imagine Mary reciting this psalm when her baby was born. The circumstances were not what she planned, the surroundings looked miserable, but God had brought her this far and He had put a protective cloak around her and her little family.
12/28/2021 — Luke 2:4
“Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and
family of David,”
Luke 2:4 — New American Standard Bible
We say that most of our family live in the States. But that is only half true. Tetsu’s half of the family lives within a day’s drive yet our relationship is so strained that we no longer see them.
I know this is not good but it is what it is. I pray today for Tetsu’s sister and her health and other situations. I pray for his brother’s family and their happiness.
12/27/2021 — Psalm 16:5-6
“You, Lord, are all I have, and you give me all I need; my future is in your hands. How wonderful are your gifts to me; how good they are!”
Psalm 16:5-6 — Good News Translation
I’m considering my One Word for the new year and this seems like a good verse to start with.
My future is set. I have chosen Jesus as my Way. God is so good to me. He holds my past and my future.
12/26/2021 — Luke 1:49
“For the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name.”
Luke 1:49
Mary is bubbling over with gratitude to the Lord. For choosing her, for Jesus, for saving the world. She has much uncertainty ahead of her, uncertainty for HER but not for God. And she gives praises for God’s blessings! Not just one, but for the many planned.
12/25/2021 — Luke 1:46-49
“Mary said, “My soul gives glory to the Lord. My spirit delights in God my Savior. He has taken note of me even though I am not considered important. From now on all people will call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me. His name is holy.”
Luke 1:46-49 — New International Reader’s Version
I read Mary’s song and think, “this should be my song! What God did for Mary, God has done and will do for me.
God has taken note of little me. He blesses me abundantly. He has done great things and through my life people will give Him glory. (At least that is my desire.)
12/24/2021 — Psalms 13:5
“But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.”
Psalms 13:5 — New Living Translation
God has rescued me before and He will rescue me again. What more is left but to trust Him and His love for me again and again.
12/23/2021 — Luke 1:30
“But the angel reassured her, saying, “Do not yield to your fear, Mary, for the Lord has found delight in you and has chosen to surprise you with a wonderful gift.”
Luke 1:30 — The Passion Translation
I like the Passion Translation of this verse because it always has seemed that fear is something that cannot be controlled. It is an automatic reaction and though God does replace fear, it is an effort to bring my mind back to God’s promise and purpose. Not yielding to fear is something I can choose.
“Do not fear” is a constant Biblical message. Living in God’s love is a constant hourly choice.
12/22/2021 — Luke 1:28
“The angel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.””
Luke 1:28 —Berean Standard Bible
In Gabriel’s eyes Mary’s identity is rooted in what God thinks of her. Highly favored.
My identity is not just my own label (which would be “wife”, “English teacher,” “aging woman”, “Christian”.) My identity is what God gives me. His child, His follower, His ambassador. His.
12/21/2021 — Luke 1:14
“You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.”
Luke 1:14 — New American Standard Bible
Zechariah and Elizabeth had their prayers answered but the answer wasn’t just for them. God had a more intricate plan and it included blessing the whole world.
The prayers I give and the answers from God do not just end with me. God answers my prayer with the whole universe, the whole timeline of His creation in mind. Hallelujah!
12/20/2021 — Luke 1:13
“But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John.”
Luke 1:13 — New Living Translation
Zechariah had been praying for a long time… and had been disappointed for a long time too! But an angel reassured him. “God has heard your prayer.”
God hears MY prayers too! He keeps my tears in a bottle. He records my life in His book.
When I pray, end my prayer with “God has heard my prayer.”
12/19/2021 — Psalm 5:11
“But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You.”
Psalms 5:11 — New King James Version
There are disappointments and regrets in any life and maybe especially during the holiday season for some people they loom huge and dark.
I pray that you will bless and strengthen and fill with hope those who are in darkness this season.
Especially bless ____ in her disappointment about marriage, ____ in her suffering though depression, ___ and her family in their wait while disease takes its course. In Jesus’ name. Amen
12/18/2021 — John 13:15
“I have set an example for you, so that you will do just what I have done for you.”
John 13:15
There was a movement some years ago called WWJD. What would Jesus do?
Jesus modeled humility and service by washing His disciples feet and He told His disciples to “do as I have done.” Jesus wasn’t telling people to wash each other’s feet but to be humble and to serve others.
“What Would Jesus Do” is a good phrase to keep in mind daily.
12/17/2021 — Exodus 20:8
““Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”
Exodus 20:8 — New Living Translation
How do I keep the Sabbath holy? Or any day? Like our forefathers do I ban watching movies or cooking dinner or playing cards. Do I sit quietly and read the Bible? It’s not really practical in these modern times, but rushing to church, hurrying to get lunch ready, sleepily browsing my iPhone isn’t the way either.
Keep God in the front of my mind. Choose praise and joy before annoyance and complaining. Take the easy road and forgive myself for it.
12/16/2021 — Mark 6:31-32
“There was such a swirl of activity around Jesus, with so many people coming and going, that they were unable to even eat a meal. So Jesus said to his disciples, “Come, let’s take a break and find a secluded place where you can rest a while.” They slipped away and left by sailboat for a deserted spot.”
Mark 6:31-32 — The Passion Translation
In these verses Jesus knew that his disciples needed to spend time alone with him and they started on their way…. But actually when they got to the deserted place, it wasn’t deserted!
Did they miss out? No, they spent time alone with Jesus on the boat, along the way. It was a short interval and one that didn’t turn out as planned but it was enough.
Jesus can be met in the small moments.
12/15/2021 — Exodus 3:12
“And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.””
Exodus 3:12 — New International Version
It seems that worship is related to service and action. In doing God’s will and following His instructions, we are performing an act of worship.
Look at my work today. Cooking, cleaning, walking the dog, as an action of worship to God. Sing a praise song while I’m at it!
12/14/2021 — 2 Samuel 2:9
““He protects the lives of his faithful people, but the wicked disappear in darkness; a man does not triumph by his own strength.”
1 Samuel 2:9
God is the source of authority and of power. It is by Him that we succeed and He decides the ways of our lives.
What more can I do but admit my smallness and ask for strength? What more is my mission but to obey and thank God for His provision?
12/13/2021 — John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
John 1:14 — New American Standard Bible
“Dwell”. God with us. God’s Word in human form, showing us, teaching us, giving us a visible example of God’s purpose for us.
If Jesus is God’s Word, then God’s Word, the Bible, is Jesus. Living, waiting, ready to speak to us, still ready to guide us.
Spend time in the Bible. Spend time with Jesus.
12/12/2021 — Luke 2:6-7
“When they arrived in Bethlehem, Mary went into labor, and there she gave birth to her firstborn son. After wrapping the newborn baby in strips of cloth, they laid him in a feeding trough since there was no available space in any upper room in the village.”
Luke 2:6-7 — The Passion Translation
Last year at around this time we were waiting for the birth of our first grandchild. We’d pondered the pros and cons of home birth, of breastfeeding, of doulas and midwives.
Mary didn’t have any of these choices. She had a husband and animals to help her. She didn’t have comfortable beds or sterile sheets. Yet, she did what she was supposed to do and trusted God for Jesus’ birth and the rest of His life.
In my life, do what God gives me to do and trust Him with the outcome and the future.
12/11/2021 — Colossians 3:12
“You are always and dearly loved by God! So robe yourself with virtues of God, since you have been divinely chosen to be holy. Be merciful as you endeavor to understand others, and be compassionate, showing kindness toward all. Be gentle and humble, unoffendable in your patience with others.”
Colossians 3:12 — The Passion Translation
God shows me how to be more like Him. I have Jesus as my model, the Bible as my guide and the Holy Spirit living within me helping me. Do I know what the virtues are? Patience, compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness. Keep these in mind as I head into stressful times.
12/10/2021 — Luke 2:10
“But the angel reassured them, saying, “Don’t be afraid. For I have come to bring you good news, the most joyous news the world has ever heard! And it is for everyone everywhere!”
Luke 2:10
Christmas comes each year and reassures us. The truth of angels amongst us. The news that though on the outside things may look discouraging, God has good news for us! We are saved, we have a place in heaven, we are remembered and loved! And it is news to be shared with everyone on earth! Spread the good news! Christ has been born for us!
12/9/2021 — John 8:12
“Then Jesus said, “I am light to the world and those who embrace me will experience life-giving light, and they will never walk in darkness.””
John 8:12 — The Passion Translation
My Christmas again this year is filled with family and decorations and many, many things for which to give thanks. But there are so many who have lost loved ones during this year, or who are fighting new health battles. I pray that I may count my blessings over my complaints and annoyances, that I may be a vessel of light for people who find themselves in shadows. May Jesus’ light guide them to joy again.
12/8/2021 — Isaiah 9:6
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6 — Berean Study Bible
In today’s world of confusing and leadership struggling against one another, it is good to be reminded that the world’s government is on Jesus’ shoulders. Our eternal Father IS the Wonderful Counselor if we go to Him. He IS mightier than all the world’s powers. He IS the Prince that will keep us in His peace.
12/7/2021 — Romans 5:15
But God's grace is much greater, and so is his free gift to so many people through the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ.”
Romans 5:15 — Good News Translation
I am thinking about what gift I can get for my Luka, for Takumi and Julieta…. I have people I want to give cards to.
What is the purpose of a gift, or a card, or an email? To the let person know that I’m thinking of them, that I wish the best for them. It can also be a time to place each person before God in prayer.
My prayer may not cost me anything but I think it has great value!
12/6/2021 — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17
Be happy in your faith and rejoice and be glad hearted continually, always; be unceasing in prayer perseveringly. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 — Amplified Bible
The peace of Christmas and the magic of that holy night refreshes my soul. But the busyness of making Christmas cards, decorating the house and finding the perfect gifts makes me sigh at the beginning of each December.
All the joy is from God’s side. All the stress is from the human side. Where am I laying my focus?
12/5/2021 — James 4:6
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.””
James 4:6 — New International Version
Sin is going your own way, putting yourself over others. My sin is thinking of myself first, wanting to always be right, letting someone else do the hard work, demanding my rights.
Teach me Lord how to be humble as You are humble not in weakness but in holiness.
12/4/2021 — John 6:37
“But everyone my Father has given to me, they will come. And all who come to me, I will embrace and will never turn them away.”
John 6:37 — The Passion Translation
Such a promise! God will never turn away anyone who comes to Him! That means we only have to keep ourselves secure in Him and He gives us the Holy Spirit to help us!
So my prayer is not the Jesus will save but that those who seek Him will claim the promise and not let their heart waver.
12/3/2021 — Psalms 46:10
““Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.””
Psalms 46:10 — Amplified Bible
Winter can actually be a great time for quiet and stillness and reflecting on God. The nights are long, going out becomes difficult. Though December has its own deadlines and schedules, take time to experience God’s presence. Rejoice and exalt Him!
12/2/2021 — Psalm 27:5-6
“In his shelter in the day of trouble, that’s where you’ll find me, for he hides me there in his holiness. He has smuggled me into his secret place, where I’m kept safe and secure— out of reach from all my enemies. Triumphant now, I’ll bring him my offerings of praise, singing and shouting with ecstatic joy! Yes, listen and you can hear the fanfare of my shouts of praise to the Lord!”
Psalms 27:5-6 — The Passion Translation
Covid is taking another turn in the world and I wonder if we will be back living with limitations. This last year we’ve had times of inconvenience but not yet fear.
Lord, keep me remembering that You are my safety, my peace and my hope. In Jesus’ name. Amen
12/1/2021 — Psalms 135:13
“Lord, you will always be proclaimed as God; all generations will remember you.”
Psalm 135:13 — Good News Bible
… and I hope that I will be one of God’s people who will remind the next generation of our wondrous God!
11/30/2021 — Lamentations 3:26
“It is good that one should hope in and wait quietly for the salvation (the safety and ease) of the Lord.”
Lamentations 3:26 — Amplified Bible
I realize I’m not a very patient person. I’m annoyed with what I consider a waste of my precious time. If I have some extra time, I make sure to use it well with a book or some handwork. Heaven forbid I should just sit and wait!
God is always working in His time, even when I can’t see it. Trust Him and learn to wait.
11/29/2021 — Galatians 4:4-5
“But when [in God’s plan] the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the [regulations of the] Law, so that He might redeem and liberate those who were under the Law, that we [who believe] might be adopted as sons [as God’s children with all rights as fully grown members of a family].”
Galatians 4:4-5 — Amplified Bible
God’s timing is always the right time. He uses the time of our wait to mature us and to experience more joy when our expectations are fulfilled.
We are waiting for Takumi’s wedding. We are waiting to hold Luka. We are waiting for the pandemic to be over. Give us faith and hope and patience, Lord.
11/28/2021 — Psalms 55:20
“I was betrayed by my friend, though I lived in peace with him. While he was stretching out his hand of friendship, he was secretly breaking every promise he had ever made to me!”
Psalms 55:20 — The Passion Translation
It is a sad day when friends break their bonds of friendship. But it can happen so easily.
Remember Tanya, not to take offense easily. Take a few breaths to pray before speaking. And remember, the person in question probably feels exactly the same way as I do. Annoyed, betrayed, misunderstood.
11/27/2021 — Matthew 11:28-30
““Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light.””
Matthew 11:28-30 — Good News Bible
Sometimes the hardest times can only be expressed as “I’m tired.”but those may be the words most alarming.
When a person says he’s tired he can mean that he’s come to the end of himself. At that point people will choose to step into eternal nothingness or into the love of God. I would hope that my life could point them to God’s arms.
11/26/2021 — Psalms 25:4-5
“Teach me your ways, O Lord; make them known to me. Teach me to live according to your truth, for you are my God, who saves me. I always trust in you.”
Psalm 25:4-5 — Good News Translation
I have a hard time planning ahead three days of meals. You would think after 40 years of cooking I could come up with menus. You would think I wouldn’t get home from the store and realize I’d forgotten something.
If my small brain can get so confused at such a simple routine why do I think I can take on the whole world’s problems. Why do I think I can plan my future months ahead of time?
God knows, God has the wisdom and the power but most of all He has the love for my good.
11/25/2021 — Isaiah 55:8-9
I don’t think the way you think. The way you work isn’t the way I work.” God’s Decree. “For as the sky soars high above earth, so the way I work surpasses the way you work, and the way I think is beyond the way you think. Isaiah 55:8-9— Message Bible
My prayer today is to have God’s perspective. I see small, see what’s around me. I work at solving problems one step at a time. But God sees the whole situation, the history of it, the future. He is never overwhelmed He is always in control. Take a breath and let Him mold me to His will.
11/24/2021 — Philippians 4:8
“Finally, my brothers and sisters, always think about what is true. Think about what is noble, right and pure. Think about what is lovely and worthy of respect. If anything is excellent or worthy of praise, think about those kinds of things.”
Philippians 4:8 — New International Reader’s Version
There are always things to worry about. But I don’t want to become a worrier nor do I want to become a negative person. I want to be known as positive and I want to enjoy the life God has given me not waste it in moping.
How many times have I said it? Focus on the good. Leave the rest to God.
11/23/2021 — John 3:16
““For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 — New Living Translation
Even if God never gave us any other blessings, the gift of eternal life through Jesus would be enough.
11/22/2021 — 2 Chronicles 20:21
“Jehoshaphat asked the people for advice. Then he appointed men to sing to the Lord. He wanted them to praise the Lord because of his glory and holiness. They marched out in front of the army. They said, “Give thanks to the Lord. His faithful love continues forever.””
2 Chronicles 20:21 — New International Reader’s Version
My most important weapon when fighting the enemy is THANKSGIVING! Jehoshaphat sang song of thanksgiving even before the battle was won!
Practice with the weapon of thanksgiving in easy times so that I will be skilled in using it in hard times.
11/21/2021 — James 4:2
“One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, To gaze upon the beauty [the delightful loveliness and majestic grandeur] of the Lord And to meditate in His temple.”
Psalms 27:4 — Amplified Bible
Can I get away from asking God for things? Not just material things but things like, “Lord, give me Your protection.” “Lord, bless my life.” “Lord, take care of my family.”
There’s nothing wrong with asking for these, it’s just that shouldn’t asking to live in God’s presence, be the focus? It is the ONE GOOD THING. Try asking only to be in God’s presence… nothing else.
11/20/2021 — Psalms 100:4
“Enter with the password: “Thank you!” Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him.”
Psalm 100:4 — Message Bible
In a world filled with blame and criticism and fault finding we can be people who lift others up. Our simple words of gratitude can keep Satan from gnawing at their hearts wondering if they’re appreciated, wondering if their efforts have meaning. Thank God. Say thank you to the people around you.
11/19/2021 — Isaiah 61:3
“To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.”
Isaiah 61:3 — New Living Translation
God, I really need you to change worry into praise, to keep fear a bay and put a cloak of protection around us all. We ask You to keep our minds positive and assured that through hard times a heart of joy and thanksgiving will become stronger. In Jesus name, Amen.
11/18/2021 — 2 Corinthians 5:17
“So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away – look, what is new has come!”
2 Corinthians 5:17 — New English Translation
It may be hard to bring captive EVERY thought but I can capture ONE thought and bring it to God.
I capture the thought that I CAN CHOOSE. I can choose to believe God’s Word when things are tough. I can choose to pray in the midst of worry. I can choose to seek out beauty and joy. I can choose to do for God when I can’t do for myself.
Look! What is old has passed away! Look, what is new has come! Choose God’s new way.
11/17/2021 — 1 Corinthians 2:16
“Isaiah’s question, “Is there anyone around who knows God’s Spirit, anyone who knows what he is doing?” has been answered: Christ knows, and we have Christ’s Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 2:16 — Message Bible
The Bible tells me to leave my questions to God. He knows and that is enough. There is nothing that says I need to understand how God works. Trusting is the key to my faith.
On the other hand, the Bible also says that God has given me His Holy Spirit so that I may discern His will, be enlightened to His message.
It works both ways according to God’s plan for me. He allows me to know, He tells me to walk in faith.
11/16/2021 — Romans 8:15
“And you did not receive the “spirit of religious duty,” leading you back into the fear of never being good enough. But you have received the “Spirit of full acceptance,” enfolding you into the family of God. And you will never feel orphaned, for as he rises up within us, our spirits join him in saying the words of tender affection, “Beloved Father!””
Romans 8:15 — The Passion Translation
My image of myself changes when I see in the truth of being God’s child. Feelings don’t matter as much as the truth of my position in God’s eyes.
11/15/2021 — 1 Timothy 1:12-13
“My heart spills over with thanks to God for the way he continually empowers me, and to our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, who found me trustworthy and who authorized me to be his partner in this ministry. Mercy kissed me, even though I used to be a blasphemer, a persecutor of believers, and a scorner of what turned out to be true. I was ignorant and didn’t know what I was doing.”
1 Timothy 1:12-13 — The Passion Translation
It IS possible to change. In my human mind I can’t imagine so-and-so making an about-turn into faith but God can work in anyone’s life. I don’t see a huge change from who I was and what I am but who but God knows what my life today would be without my faith. There might be a huge gap!
I pray for___ and ___ asking God to turn them to Himself. Help me be a beacon leading them home.
11/14/2021 — Philippians 4:8
“In conclusion, my brothers and sisters, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honourable.”
Philippians 4:8 — Good News Bible
Mental illness is everywhere and we all have a bit of eccentricity in us.
I don’t want my “unique” individualism to limit me and the Bible says to take captive every thought and bring it captive to Jesus. The Bible also shows HOW! Focus on the good. Repeat songs of praise. Look for beauty. Recite God’s promises to me. He will see me through my dimmer times.
11/13/2021 — Psalm 23:5
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over.”
Psalm 23:5
My heart needs to overflow with prayers to God and His blessings will overflow in my life. And then my prayers will overflow with thanksgiving as His love continuously saturates my being. It is a marvelous, endless circle of love and prayer and blessings and thanksgiving!
11/12/2021 — Matthew 25:25
“so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’”
Matthew 25:25
Fear so limits us. When we are afraid and the “what ifs” crowd in, so much gets left undone, gets un-experienced, gets unshared. God’s gift is hidden and we don’t shine for Him. The glory He deserves is rerouted through someone else.
It is hard to be bold and fear is sometimes an automatic response, but step back, breathe, recite God’s promise and remember that God is always there.
11/11/2021 — Psalms 138:14
“I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well.”
Psalms 139:14 — New American Standard Bible
I seem to fret a lot about this body of mine. Too much flab, too many spots and wrinkles, too frizzy hair.
But it is this same imperfect body that has carried me for 66 years, that allows me to do my hobbies, that keeps me enjoying life.
My body will not last forever but I hope I don’t hold it against it when it at last fails. It has done such a faithful job!
11/10/2021 — Hebrews 12:1
“As for us, we have this large crowd of witnesses round us. So then, let us rid ourselves of everything that gets in the way, and of the sin which holds on to us so tightly, and let us run with determination the race that lies before us.”
Hebrews 12:1 — Good News Bible
There are people cheering for me. People who know me and encourage me. There are even souls of people who have loved me, who are connected to me in the family of Christ, and they too stand around me protecting me from dangers and my own sin.
What an example, on this earth and when I arrive in heaven.
11/9/2021 — Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Lord and King is on me. The Lord has anointed me to announce good news to poor people. He has sent me to comfort those whose hearts have been broken. He has sent me to announce freedom for those who have been captured. He wants me to set prisoners free from their dark cells.”
Isaiah 61:1 — New International Reader’s Version
God keeps sending people into my life who are living with mental health issues. Panic attacks, anxiety, agoraphobia…. I know nothing. I think maybe the only thing I can do is to pray for them and maybe bring them God’s Word (though some of them are doors shut tightly…
11/8/2021 — Matthew 24:35
“Heaven and earth will pass away. But my words will never pass away.”
Matthew 24:35 — New International Reader’s Version
When did my life begin centering on the Bible? As a college student, true, but it took many years before I became a consistent reader. A sporadic studier, yes, but an accountable reader not until 10 years ago.
My way of staying in the Bible changes but it’s drawing power and message never changes.
11/7/2021 — Romans 15:4
“Everything written in the past was written to teach us. The Scriptures give us strength to go on. They encourage us and give us hope.”
Romans 15:4
God uses everything! All my tears and problems, all my outbursts and failures. All my moments of thrill and excitement. He uses my past to help me recognize His work in my life so that I seek Him for my future.
11/6/2021 — Proverbs 30:5
““Every word of God is perfect. He is like a shield to those who trust in him. He keeps them safe.”
Proverbs 30:5
God’s Word shows up in all the seasons of my life. He gives me His thoughts, His guidance, His wisdom every time I open my Bible. He has a word ready for anyone who seeks Him and He will give comfort and hope.
11/5/2021 — Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.”
Hebrews 13:7
I am grateful for the people who led me to Christ and to the people who have taught me in my walk. They were diligent in their witnessing but even before that, the kind of people they were, the dedicated lives they led was what attracted me to them.
May I be that type of person for someone else.
11/4/2021 — Ephesians 3:20
“God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He does everything by his power that is working in us.”
Ephesians 3:20 — New International Reader’s Version
God uses small people and has them do great things.
There is no question that I am small and I’m not doing anything great, but God still uses me. Who am I to complain even if my color is only a dab in God’s great picture? The picture is great even if my role isn’t.
11/3/2021 — Acts 11:24
“But the hope of God’s kingdom kept spreading and multiplying everywhere!”
Acts 12:24 — The Passion Translation
Because of scribes recording God’s Word, because of translators who were dedicated to
putting the Bible into common languages, because of people who shared God’s message to me, I became a reader and a believer.
Am I connecting the chain of the gospel to other people? Share God’s Word with someone. Don’t be afraid.
11/2/2021 — Isaiah 40:8
“The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.””
Isaiah 40:8 — New Living Translation
The Bible is not history. It tells the story of the world’s past but it illuminates the future also. The Bible is not beautiful words. It encourages, inspires, gives direction, raises hope. The Bible is not a reprimand. It shows me how to put my past aside and embrace God’s plan. The Bible is not a book. It is God’s love letter to me.
11/1/2021 — John 1:14
“Now the Word became flesh and took up residence among us. We saw his glory – the glory of the one and only, full of grace and truth, who came from the Father.”
John 1:14 — New English Translation
Jesus knows our struggles but more than that, He lived them! He took care of parents, He had a job, He was at the beck and call of hundreds! He knew the limits of time, He felt the pressures of getting things done.
My life might have its stresses, but Jesus understands them all.
10/31/2021 — Ephesians 2:8-10
“For it was only through this wonderful grace that we believed in him. Nothing we did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the gracious gift from God that brought us to Christ! So no one will ever be able to boast, for salvation is never a reward for good works or human striving. We have become his poetry, a re-created
people that will fulfill the destiny he has given each of us, for we are joined to Jesus, the Anointed One. Even before we were born, God planned in advance our destiny and the good works we would do to fulfill it!”
Ephesians 2:8-10 — The Passion Translation
I think I have chosen God, but He has chosen me. By his plan, I have been saved from working hard, trying to please, measuring myself by human standards. There is NOTHING I can do to make God love me more, that can give me a surer salvation, that can give me more confidence in life. My actions and productively are purely an expression of my love and gratefulness to God.
10/30/2021 — 1 Corinthians 3:9
“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
1 Corinthians 3:9 — New International Version
If I am working in God’s will, if I have God’s purpose in my heart, then He has set me in His field, He has put me in the time and position and circumstance that I’m supposed to be. My to-do list may not get done but if it is God’s to-do list, He will ALWAYS complete the job.
10/29/2021 — 1 Corinthians 15:21
“All people die because of what one man did. That was Adam. And it is because of another man that people can rise up after death to a new life. That is Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:21 — Easy English Bible
Because of sin, all of our lives have to now be fitted into a timeframe, and honestly speaking, o this earth we will NEVER cross off everything on our to-do lists.
But Christ gave us back endless time and the work we rejoice in will be for a wonderful eternity!
10/28/2021 — Ecclesiastes 3:11
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Ecclesiastes 3:11 — New International Version
I want to leave my thoughts, my efforts to my children and my children’s children, even to friends and acquaintances. Is it pride that wants acknowledgment and praise? It is fear of being forgotten?
The Bible says God has set eternity in our hearts. The desire to live forever, with God, with loved ones. To be known forever…. My place is secure. I know God knows my name and my heart. And He will never forget.
10/27/2021 — Romans 12:2
“Do not become like the people who belong to this world. But let God completely change the way that you think, so that you live differently. Then you will understand what God wants you to do. You will know what is good. You will know what pleases God. You will know what is completely right.”
Romans 12:2 — Easy English Bible
I come back to this verse in various translations over and over again. Placing my life before God. Giving it back to him as an offering. Letting Him change my thinking and my mind.
I worry about my friend who has so many mental struggles. If she could only see this and claim this promise…. But would God really change her thoughts? He says He will but will it be that easy? But what could be worse than trying to second guess all the problems of life….
Speak out boldly Tanya! God give me the opportunity!
10/26/2021 — 2 Chronicles 16:9
“God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God’s help…”
2 Chronicles 16:9 — Message Bible
Why is it when there is a problem, I seek out human help before going to God. When I am pushed to my limit I remember to pray, but I’m ashamed to say it is not always my first response.
Help me to learn and train my heart to always seek You FIRST Lord. You know all, love all, have control over all. I want to chose You before anything and anyone else. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
10/25/2021 — 2 Corinthians 3:15-16
“Yes, even today when they read Moses’ writings, their hearts are covered with that veil, and they do not understand. But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.”
2 Corinthians 3:15-16
When I am so excited with a verse and I want to share its hope and light with a struggling friend, I think, “She’s not going to understand this…. The eyes of her heart are still shut tight…”
How do I share and the unbeliever see? Maybe by saturating the verse and the situation in prayer.
10/24/2021 — Romans 8:17
“And since we are his true children, we qualify to share all his treasures, for indeed, we are heirs of God himself. And since we are joined to Christ, we also inherit all that he is and all that he has. We will experience being co-glorified with him provided that we accept his sufferings as our own.”
Romans 8:17 — The Passion Translation
My foundation is my faith, Christ Himself. I chose Him, or rather, I chose not to weigh about choosing or not choosing, every day. In that decision God has given me all the treasures, all the blessings, all the protection of His kingdom. I also lay down my “right” to know all the reasons of problems and darkness in the world. It is in God’s hands.
10/23/2021 — Romans 8:5
“Those who live as their human nature tells them to, have their minds controlled by what human nature wants. Those who live as the Spirit tells them to, have their minds controlled by what the Spirit wants.”
Romans 8:5 — Good News Bible
“Do not believe everything your brain tells you.”
I think this is so true. My emotions and my brain send me in all directions. I want to rely on God. On where the Holy Spirit is leading. That is why it’s important to make a decision to trust God and stick to it because sooner or later my mind is going to start playing tricks on me! That’s what human nature is!
10/22/2021 — Colossians 2:15
“Then Jesus made a public spectacle of all the powers and principalities of darkness, stripping away from them every weapon and all their spiritual authority and power to accuse us. And by the power of the cross, Jesus led them around as prisoners in a procession of triumph. He was not their prisoner; they were his!”
Colossians 2:15 — The Passion Translation
We are in a battle against Satan and evil. But it is already a battle that has been won! Satan no longer has authority over us. We must ready ourselves to stand against him but he is not worthy of touching Jesus or His loved ones. Prepare yourself for keeping the devil at bay!
10/21/2021 — John 11:43
“Then Jesus called in a loud voice. He said, “Lazarus, come out!””
John 11:43 — New International Reader’s Version
Jesus called Lazarus from death. He called me too!
“Tanya, come out!”
Jesus took me from death, from sin, from my past, from my worries about the future. Jesus freed me completely!
10/20/2021 — Psalms 19:13
“Keep your servant from deliberate sins! Don’t let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin.”
Psalms 19:13 — New Living Translation
I am rather annoyed with Tetsu. And he may not even know it! I could lash out and tell him why I think I’ve been wrong… but that would ruin the day for both of us because he isn’t one to back down. Or I could take a deep breath, get some distance and hope for a time when a discussion might be less flammable…. Lord keep me from deliberately putting a rift between us.
10/19/2021 — Psalms 122:1
“I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.””
Psalms 122:1 — New American Standard Bible
The church’s purpose (as a whole, not just the church I attend) is to worship God. But is it to provide a place to worship? I don’t think so. I am worshipping every moment of my day and night. Meeting with other Christians (God’s church) is our opportunity to join all of our worship together into a resounding, echoing masterpiece of glorifying God. I bring my worship to the communal worship and add another note to its chorus.
10/18/2021 — Romans 1:20
“Ever since God created the world, his invisible qualities, both his eternal power and his divine nature, have been clearly seen; they are perceived in the things that God has made. So those people have no excuse at all!”
Romans 1:20 — Good News Translation
In Japan, people want to cover all the bases in religion. There are Buddhist and Shinto altars in the same room. Weddings are Christian.
God has shown himself in the world and has given us a way to Him through Jesus Christ. And He is a jealous God! None of this covering all the bases! It seems so clear to me… why not to my Japanese friends?
10/17/2021 — Colossians 1:16
“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”
Colossians 1:16 — New International Version
Humans like to worship something. That’s what we were made for! People worship rock bands and sports. The other day in preschool a little girl told me she wanted to be an idol! (the cutest group singers of Japan).
We were made by God and FOR God! While I might admire someone I ONLY worship God!
10/16/2021 — 1 Corinthians 8:5-6
“It is true that people call many things their gods. Those are things both in heaven and on earth. Those people have many gods and many Lords. But for us there is only one God, who is the Father. All things come from him. We live to serve him. For us, there is only one Lord, who is Jesus Christ. All things are there because of him. And we ourselves live because of him.”
1 Corinthians 8:5-6 — Easy English Bible
We are made to worship. Even people who are not religious…. All of us worship something. Who I believe to worship (Jesus Christ) might be proved wrong when you look at how I spend my time. Do I worship my sewing machine? My iPhone? Food?
Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
10/15/2021 — Romans 12:13
Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down.
Romans 12:13 — Message Bible
Maybe the most important way to show people God is to relate with them. Instead of telling them the way… no questions allowed… the way into their hearts is to listen and sympathize.
I once asked some senior missionary what they would have done differently in their mission for Christ. The answer surprised me.
“I would have learned more about the people’s beliefs.”
I’m still not much interested in learning about Shintoism and Buddhism but I understand the importance of knowing a person’s heart.
10/14/2021 — Colossians 3:16
“Christ's message in all its richness must live in your hearts. Teach and instruct one another with all wisdom. Sing psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing to God with thanksgiving in your hearts.”
Colossians 3:16 — Good News Translation
For Christ’s message to live in my heart I must put it there…. Reading God’s Word. Thinking of it throughout the day. Praying to God for wisdom and guidance. For myself alone, peace of mind and heart, filling my heart is vital but it also readies me to witness to others.
10/13/2021 — Acts 22:15
“For you will be his witness to every race of people and will share with them everything that you’ve seen and heard.” Acts 22:15 — The Passion Translation
A witness in a courtroom is called to tell what he has seen and heard first hand. As a witness to Christ I am only asked to tell how I met Jesus, what He means to me, how He helps me.
It is not up to me to convince or persuade. That is God’s work. It is not up to me to soften my words. It is up to me to shine, to be approachable, to be authentic.
May God prepare me and use me today.
10/12/2021 — Matthew 5:14-16
““Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16 — Message Bible
God has given me an opportunity to talk of His love. My witness is not to talk about who I am but WHOSE I am.
I pray that opening my heart and being simple and honest will cause the loved one to open their heart to God.
10/11/2021 — Psalms 139:13
“Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother’s womb.”
Psalms 139:13 — New English Translation
What a wonder! God created the heavens and earth! The wonders of the universe! And he created me. He created the smallest. He knows the visible and the invisible. He has seen the past and the he has seen the future.
All this He counts as good.
10/10/2021 — Psalm 27:14
“Here’s what I’ve learned through it all: Don’t give up; don’t be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and never lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting—for he will never disappoint you!”
Psalms 27:14 — The Passion Translation
Waiting on the Lord is not easy…. But it can be active. I think about this time we’ve had of uncertainty and fear during Corona. It was a time of waiting, of quiet. It was a time to learn more of God and learning to trust. It was a time to find joyful things within our confinement. It was a time for hope to grow brighter and bigger. I think we’ll someday look back and see what an important time this was in our lives.
10/9/2021 — Deuteronomy 32:9
“For the Lord’s portion is His people; Jacob is the place of His inheritance.”
Deuteronomy 32:9 — New King James Version
I am God’s portion! He has chosen me to be part of His special family and I have chosen Him to be my Savior!!!
“God made man and creation for His glory and His glory alone. Everything we do—from the way we love one another to the way we use our talents and gifts—ultimately serves to honor and glorify Him. Despite our selfish tendencies, we are His greatest treasure.”
- Lindsay Williams
10/8/2021 — Galatians 5:1
“Christ has set us free to enjoy our freedom. So remain strong in the faith. Don’t let the chains of slavery hold you again.”
Galatians 5:1 — New International Reader’s Version
God has set us free, set us apart, so that there is nothing for us to worship but Him. We do not have to let people’s approval, money, our own perfectionism capture us again. Keep God as my focus. Enjoy His blessings, don’t be controlled by them.
My chains are gone, I’ve been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love,
Amazing grace
10/7/2021 — Romans 8:31
“So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us?
Romans 8:31 — Message Bible
Because I am on Jesus’ side, God is on my side! There is nothing to be afraid of or worried about because He has everything good ready for me. The victory is already mine!
What is something I can do today just because I know God has already put His stamp of approval on it. And what is stopping me from stepping out in faith?
10/6/2021 — Psalms 30:12
“How could I be silent when it’s time to praise you? Now my heart sings out loud, bursting with joy— a bliss inside that keeps me singing, “I can never thank you enough!””
Psalms 30:12 — The Passion Translation
How I love Matt Redman’s 10000 Reasons. My heart does sing when I hear it and am reminded of the uncountable blessings that God has given me! I want to praise God continually and throughout eternity!!
Bless the Lord o my soul
O my soul. Worship His holy name
Sing like never before, O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name.
10/5/2021 — Romans 8:38
“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.”
Romans 8:38 — New Living Translation
My fears and my worries try to pull me from God. My own mind circles around and around so that I forget to seek Him out or it refuses to believe that I am steeped in God’s love. I am so grateful that though I may temporarily forget His presence, God will never forget me!
10/4/2021 — John 16:27
“For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God.”
John 16:27 — Berean Study Bible
God is so kind to give us Jesus, a physical form of love and sacrifice and forgiveness. He could have left us to just experience his greatness through nature, hear His works through the Bible, but He gave us Jesus to show us who will be like in eternity.
10/3/2021 Revelation 5:13
“Then every living being joined the angelic choir. Every creature in heaven and on earth, under the earth, in the sea, and everything in them, were worshiping with one voice, saying: “Praise, honor, glory, and dominion be to God-Enthroned and to Christ the Lamb forever and ever!””
Revelation 5:13 — The Passion Translation
When John saw this vision, this revelation, he saw ME standing with the myriads and myriads of angels and God’s believers and all His creatures. I was there in his vision of eternity!!! My voice joined with all creatures who love God to reverberate praises and worship forever!
10/2/2021 — 1 John 3:1
“Think about how much God the Father loves us. He calls us his children. He loves us that much! And we really have become children of God. The people who belong to this world do not understand who God is. Because of that, they do not understand who we are.”
1 John 3:1 — Easy English Bible
God as my Father, not just Lord or King or friend. God as my dad!
Then recognizing myself as His daughter. Not just His emissary or disciple or follower. I am a baby in God’s care and under His protection. And He isn’t insisting I grow up! He loves the wobbly attempts at life and smiles when I get up and try again!
10/1/2021 — 2 Corinthians 6:18
“And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” Says the Lord Almighty.”
2 Corinthians 6:18 — New American Standard Version
God began the relationship of father to child from Adam and Eve.
Out of love we were brought to this world but we turned away from it and from God!
With Jesus we are given the chance to claim our position again accepting all the gifts and treasures that God has prepared for us. God is our FATHER!! What could be more wonderful than that!
9/30/2021 — Matthew 7:11
“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.”
Matthew 7:11 — New Living Translation
This is surely a rabbit hole to fall into. How does my image of my father tint my perception of God as my father. Or, what kind of mother was I to my children that now influences their ideas of an eternal Parent?
My Father’s love surpasses the love I was given, it surpasses the love that I so dearly have for my family. Can I ever really understand God’s love for us?
9/29/2021 — Luke 11:2
“So Jesus taught them this prayer: “Our heavenly Father, may the glory of your name be the center on which our life turns. May your Holy Spirit come upon us and cleanse us. Manifest your kingdom on earth.”
Luke 11:2 — The Passion Translation
The Lord’s Prayer is not a mantra. We can’t just recite it and be happy that we’ve covered all the bases. It shows what should be the meat of our prayers.
Acknowledging God as the only authority over us and the world.
Thankfulness for His provision.
Confession of my sins and selfishness.
Releasing ourselves to God’s protection and salvation.
Thy will be done in my life Lord.
9/28/2021 — Luke 11:1
“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.””
Luke 11:1 — Good News Bible
I’ve begun to think that the problem is not that I don’t know HOW to pray, I just don’t feel drawn to do it (the word is “feel”) and I haven’t the discipline.
I think my first prayer should be,
“Lord, bring me to DESIRE prayer. Draw me to it so that I long to meet with You each time.”
And then I need to have God’s strength to be DISCIPLINED to continue whether I feel like it or not.
“Lord, keep me accountable to meeting with You. Help me to remember my first desire.”
9/27/2021 — 2 Corinthians 3:18
“We show the power of the Lord to other people. It is like God has removed a cloth from over our faces. He is changing us so that we become more and more like him. We show how great God is more and more clearly. It
is the Lord who does all this, by the work of his
Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 — Easy English Bible
How wonderful that the Spirit is changing us and doing the work of using our lives to show people God! With time and closeness to God we will see that the problems God has taken us through show others how God can work in their lives also.
9/26/2021 — Hebrews 11:6
“Unless we trust God, it is impossible for us to make God happy. Anyone who comes to God must believe that God is there. They must also believe that God helps everyone who wants to know him.”
Hebrews 11:6 — Easy English Bible
“Sometimes when you are in a dark place you think you are buried. But actually you’ve been planted.” — Christine Caine
Something good will always come from our difficulties. We might learn from it. It will always change us! And it is possible that the problem and solution is for someone else’s benefit entirely. God using our suffering to help someone else.
9/25/2021 — Colossians 3:2
“Think about things that are in heaven. Don’t think about things that are only on earth.”
Colossians 3:2 — New International Reader’s Version
When a problem comes up the emotions and feelings kick in and the habits fall away. In truth, my habit of prayer and Bible reading and PRAISE falls away and I get mired in anger and fear and hopelessness. And then the problem seems (SEEMS) to get bigger. It is logical to get back to my custom of connecting with God…. It may take effort but it always makes the problem lighter.
9/24/2021 — Matthew 27:46
“And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabaktanei?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?””
Matthew 27:46 — New American Standard Version
It is impossible for God to turn His back on us or forsake us. He did it ONCE when Jesus was fulfilling His purpose to save the world so that it would never have to be repeated. God is ALWAYS with is.
9/23/2021 — Psalms 23: 4
“Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, Lord, for you are with me. Your shepherd's rod and staff protect me.” Psalm 23:4 — Good News Translation
My day yesterday was at a low because of headaches and nausea…. Probably brought on by new glasses…
My day shut down and I couldn’t read, sew, journal, do art etc. How dependent we are on being able to see! Without glasses I could only sleep and my mood and happiness went lower and lower.
I considered that this small thing, a headache, ruined my plans, my day, my sense of self-worth and my attitude. How will I handle the bigger problems of life?
Lord, keep reminding me that You are with me even when I can’t see You or feel You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
9/22/2021 — Psalms 47:7-8
“God is king over all the world; praise him with songs! God sits on his sacred throne; he rules over the nations.”
Psalm 47:7-8 — Good News Translation
God is God over all the world. Not just where I live, not just countries with Christian culture. The nations may not recognize Him as ruler yet but someday all will bow down to Him.
9/21/2021 — Psalms 103:5
“Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the [soaring] eagle.”
Psalms 103:5 — Amplified Bible
What do I need in my years now? What blessings can I count today?
Hmm…. Today I can be grateful that John didn’t manage to bite me. (He certainly tried!) I can be grateful for the many texts and pictures from Leiya. I am grateful for the vaccination that offers us protection so that we feel we can go out. I am grateful for friends who stay in contact (and I need to reciprocate today!)
9/20/2021 — Psalms 10:17
“Lord, you know and understand all the hopes of the humble and will hear their cries and comfort their hearts, helping them all!”
Psalms 10:17 — The Passion Translation
Thank You Lord for hearing me, for knowing why my heart aches when I don’t even know why myself. Keep me close to You and keep my heart full of joy. Help me to find Your blessings in my everyday life. Show me how to live as You desire me to do.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
9/19/2021 — Psalms 5:3
“At each and every sunrise you will hear my voice as I prepare my sacrifice of prayer to you. Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on the altar and wait for your fire to fall upon my heart.”
Psalms 5:3 — The Passion Translation
Reading this verse in different versions, some translations say “I direct my prayers to You.”
Prayer can be so habitual. I say grace before meals but where is my prayer directed? Am I really thinking of God at all when I pray, or am I going through the motions?
My prayer is “laid out” before God as a sacrifice…. I am giving Him every part of my life and wait for His presence and His purification.
9/18/2021 — Psalm 44:17-19
“Despite all of this, we have not forgotten you; we have not broken covenant with you. We have not betrayed you; our hearts are still yours. Our steps have not strayed from your path. Yet you have crushed us, leaving us in this wilderness place of misery and desperation. With nowhere else to turn, death’s dark door seems to be the only way out.”
Psalms 44:17-19 — The Passion Translation
I say that I have not turned my back on God but if life takes a hard turn, how closely will I cling to God?
“I have not betrayed You…” yet I betray Him everyday when I forget to be grateful for His blessings.
“My steps have not strayed…” yet how often have I not followed through with prayer and praise?
I deserve nothing from God, but still He comforts, protects and loves. And teaches, sometimes through suffering. And blesses, with my eternal life.
9/17/2021 — Matthew 6:21
“Your heart will be where your riches are.”
Matthew 6:21 — New International Reader’s Version
My list of my riches are: my family… my friends…my pets…. my faith… my health… my hobbies.
I wonder about the order of those I’ve listed. Work should have been listed, but I didn’t give it much thought even when I worked many hours…
9/16/2021 — 1 Peter 5:7
“If you have any kind of trouble in your mind, give it to God. God has promised to take care of you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — Easy English Bible
I may think that just telling God isn’t going to solve my problem, but recognizing that I can’t solve a problem by myself is an important step on relying on God. Relaxing in God, trusting Him is the process we develop as our faith matures.
9/15/2021 — 2 Corinthians 12:1
“We can’t gain anything by bragging. But I have to do it anyway. I am going to tell you what I’ve seen. I want to talk about what the Lord has shown me.”
2 Corinthians 12:1 — New International Reader’s Version
Another verse that makes me think. All my journaling, my posting of quilts and sketching. My newly begun Instagram…. Is it only boasting? Only a way to fish for compliments? It is very nice, it is what God gives me in life. It is glossed over a bit (“focus on the good”), but is it really pointing to God? That should be the purpose. Not the applause.
9/14/2021 — 1 Chronicles 4:10
“Jabez cried out to the God of Israel. He said, “I wish you would bless me. I wish you would give me more territory. Let your power protect me. Keep me from harm. Then I won’t have any pain.” God gave him what he asked for.”
1 Chronicles 4:10 — New International Reader’s Version
This is such an uplifting verse! But is it really that simple, to just pray to be protected and that’s what God will do?
I think this verse needs to be read along with Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 and
“There is a time”.
God isn’t our magician. He controls the times that we live in. There are good times and hard times but they are all God’s times.
9/13/2021 — Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 — Amplified Bible
“Suffering is not the absence of God or good.” Kara Tippets
There must be meaning in suffering if God is allowing it in our lives. He doesn’t even have to tell me what the meaning is! …it is so easy to get caught up in understanding WHY something is happening.
There is a reason. I probably will never know why. God says it is good. It IS good.
9/12/2021 — Philippians 3:10
“There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear, because fear involves [the expectation of divine] punishment, so the one who is afraid [of God’s judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God’s love].”
1 John 4:18 — Amplified Bible
What do I fear? Sickness? Loss of family members? It happens…. Even close to God, suffering can happen. Suffering can be expected to happen! (Gulp). In Him we live and die.
“All I want is to know Christ and to experience the power of his resurrection, to share in his sufferings and become like him in his death,” Philippians 3:10
But whatever happens, God’s love for me doesn’t change. He is cheering me on to stay fast to the end.
9/11/2021 — 2 Thessalonians 2:8
“And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming.”
II Thessalonians 2:8 New King James Version
The world isn’t in great shape…. I’m not searching out signs but Jesus’ return in my lifetime wouldn’t be a surprise. Though evil seems rampant now, with Jesus’ appearance the Antichrist will be destroyed and goodness and glory will reign!!
Be ready. Make sure my loved ones are with me in heaven!
9/10/2021 — Matthew 16:24-26
“Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?”
Matthew 16:24-26
This verse resonates with me. I am drawn to Self-improvement books but Jesus is not concerned with my improvement. He wants me to be saved, (I am) He wants me to rely on Him. (I try to.)
“Finding oneself” could be like an onion. You keep peeling the layers and there is nothing there! Finding God is the all important!
9/9/2021 — Revelation 19:16
“On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all Lords.”
Revelation 19:16 — New Living Translation
To exalt God, I must know His greatness. I must worship Him in spirit, not just because it feels good. Not because the church provides me a place to do so. God is authority over all, He is all knowing and all powerful. He is MY King! He is My Lord!
9/8/2021 — 1 Samuel 15:22
“But Samuel replied, “What pleases the Lord more? Burnt offerings and sacrifices, or obeying the Lord? It is better to obey than to offer a sacrifice. It is better to do what he says than to offer the fat of rams.”
1 Samuel 15:22 — New International Reader’s Version
I’m so glad I don’t live in the age of burnt sacrifices and I wonder if I consider my church offerings my sacrifices. Those are done as routine, and I admit I don’t give them much thought. WHICH IS OBVIOUSLY NOT THE SACRIFICE GOD DEMANDS!! Any unthought offering is not worthy of God!
Considering daily how I can obey God gives him much more pleasure and praise.
9/7/2021 — Psalms 100:3
“Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.”
Psalms 100:3
I am one of God’s many sheep living in His pasture, guarded by Him, led by Him. Carried when necessary, loved even in my foolishness. What a simple peace.
9/6/2021 — 2 Corinthians 4:18
“So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”
2 Corinthians 4:18 — New Living Translation
I think someone I once knew committed suicide. It was a long time ago and I won’t ever really know and it makes no difference my knowing or not. I don’t feel I could have helped but there is a sadness there of thinking for so many years I just assumed she was living her life as I lived mine…
I’m embarrassed to confess that I have blurted in frustration “I don’t even want to live if this is the situation I am stuck in!”, but the situation didn’t last long…. And I had friends who stepped in and reminded me of God in my life.
Realizing that everything works within God’s plans. Knowing problems are temporary. Having friends who remind us to hope when one’s own eyes can’t see…
9/5/2021 — Isaiah 65:21-22
“They will build houses and live in them; They will plant vineyards and eat the fruit. They will not build and another occupy; They will not plant and another eat [the fruit]. For as the lifetime of a tree, so will be the days of My people, And My chosen [people] will fully enjoy [and long make use of] the work of their hands.”
Isaiah 65:21-22 — Amplified Bible
The Bible says we will be working alongside God in heaven! Imagine! We will build houses and plant gardens! We’ll have time to start all the things we want to start and finish all the projects we want to finish! And the work will be joyful and fulfilling! Nothing will stop us because we are “too old” or “too weak!” God will be our manager, teacher, director. How could we go wrong?!
9/4/2021 — Hebrews 6:10-12
“For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do. Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance.”
Hebrews 6:10-12
Praise the Lord that He watches our lives and more importantly our hearts, and that He promises to finish the work He has started (through us).
Thanks be to God that we will continue to channel His love to others no matter how old or feeble we become. That love doesn’t need us to be healthy or strong, we just need to be connected to Him. It requires no result and no measurable success. Just love. By deed (when I can), by prayer and a turning of thought when that is all that is left to me.
9/3/2021 — Ecclesiastes 2:17-18
“So I hated life. That’s because the work done on this earth made me sad. None of it has any meaning. It’s like chasing the wind. I hated everything I had worked for on earth. I’ll have to leave all of it to someone who lives after me.”
Ecclesiastes 2:17-18 — New International Reader’s Version
These are strong words. But as we get older I think about what I’ve done and it seems so little…. Teaching English…. Did it change anyone’s life? That is such a prideful way to think. It was a joint effort of so many people, so many moments of English movies or books or TV that planted seeds of interest in someone’s mind and I was a drop that was added.
And though Solomon bemoaned the idea of someone gaining from the efforts that he’d worked for, to me there is the fear that it WON’T leave any benefits for anyone after I am gone. All the housework, all the quilts, all the journaling…. I can see why it seems like chasing the wind…
But we have a life AFTER this world and we have fit in THIS life according to God’s plan!
9/2/2021 — Colossians 2:6-7
“You received Christ Jesus as Lord. So keep on living your lives in him. Have your roots in him. Build yourselves up in him. Grow strong in what you believe, just as you were taught. Be more thankful than ever before.”
Colossians 2:6-7 —New International Reader’s Version
It is not such a difficult message. I gave myself to Christ, I have walked with Him and He has been leading me. Continuing with Him daily will only make me more like Him. Be thankful for all the things that He leads me to and through.
9/1/2021 — Psalm 91:9-10
“When we live our lives within the shadow of God Most High, our secret hiding place, we will always be shielded from harm. How then could evil prevail against us or disease infect us?”
Psalms 91:9-10 — The Passion Translation
If I live SHELTERING-DOWN in God, I will be protected in His shadow.
Why can’t I just rejoice and relax? Why does my brain say, “What about all the Christian martyrs in the world? What about all the people who devote themselves to God yet Corona invades their homes?”
Is this Satan speaking to me, taking away my trusting, childlike heart? Be gone, Satan! Jesus says I am His and as I live in Him, He lives in me! There is nothing to fear!
8/31/2021 — Mark 12:29-31
“Jesus answered him, “The most important of all the commandments is this: ‘The Lord Yahweh, our God, is one!’ You are to love the Lord Yahweh, your God, with every passion of your heart, with all the energy of your being, with every thought that is within you, and with all your strength. This is the great and supreme commandment.
“And the second is this: ‘You must love your neighbor in the same way you love yourself.’ You will never find a greater commandment than these.”
Mark 12:29-31 — The Passion Translation
I don’t guess I’ve ever had to choose God over other authority… even living in a non-Christian country, but of all the laws and rules and royal decrees in the world, loving God, loving my neighbors goes above whatever else man devises.
God speaks to each of us causing our hearts to discern our duties with society and making us at peace with where He has placed us.
8/30/2021 — Hebrews 13:2
“Do not neglect to extend hospitality to strangers [especially among the family of believers—being friendly, cordial, and gracious, sharing the comforts of your home and doing your part generously], for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:2 — Amplified Bible
I have two problems with obeying this verse. One, NO ONE comes to our house these days so I’m not being hospitable to ANY ONE!
But if I’m being honest, our home has never been very open to guests and visitors. I don’t cook meals for people, my animals make entertaining difficult, in general we are a quiet, singular family…
How can I be hospitable without guests?
8/29/2021 — 2 Corinthians 12:10
“So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God’s strength].”
2 Corinthians 12:10 — Amplified Bible
I doubt if I’m going to be at peace if someone in my family gets Corona. I fear I’ll find out how weak my faith really is. But God gives strength when we need it and I’m choosing to trust that He will supply strength and peace and even joy when the need is there.
“The suffering that actually comes in our life
Is not as hard as the fear of suffering
But when it comes in your life
He will give strength to take up your cross”
(translated from a Dutch poem)
8/28/2021 — Psalms 122:6-9
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Say, “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace inside your walls. May your people be kept safe.” I’m concerned for my family and friends. So I say to Jerusalem, “May you enjoy peace.” I’m concerned about the house of the Lord our God. So I pray that things will go well with Jerusalem.”
Psalm 122:6-9 — New International Reader’s Version
I’m taking the name, Jerusalem to mean my town, my country, my society in general.
I pray for world peace… from fighting, from fear of disease.
I pray that we who love God will be strong and feel safe in His love while around us there may be fear.
I pray that I can keep my home a comforting and happy place.
I pray for my friends and family to be covered by God’s wings of safety.
I pray for this world so that God’s power, God’s love, God’s glory will be clearly seen by all!
8/27/2021 — Psalms 100:5
“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.”
Psalms 100:5 — New International Version
The stories of the faith of my grandparents is something I treasure. I don’t know if I ever witnessed it myself because I was rather young, but hearing of how their families in Japan were part of the Hidden Christians, hearing how they served in their church with flowers from their gardens, makes me proud to have their God in me.
I hope stories of my faith, (what are they?) will be passed to my grandchildren.
8/26/2021 — Romans 15:13
“God is the one who causes us to hope for good things. I pray that God will bless you very much. I pray that he will cause you to be happy and to have peace in your minds. He will do this because you believe in him. As a result, God's Holy Spirit will make you strong with his power, so that you hope even more certainly.”
Romans 15:13 — Easy English Bible
God is the source of hope. Not better times, not informational data. Don’t put your hope in numbers or the daily news. That changes too drastically and hope will soar or plummet.
God loves me! Hope for the best! God knows what I need! Hope for good to prevail. God has my future set! Hope for eternal peace in heaven!
8/25/2021 — Proverbs 18:24
“The man of too many friends [chosen indiscriminately] will be broken in pieces and come to ruin, But there is a [true, loving] friend who [is reliable and] sticks closer than a brother.”
Proverbs 18:24 — Amplified Bible
Such an interesting verse, especially for these times of social distancing! God wants us to have friends who guide us, rejoice with us, support us (and vice versa), but it is not the quantity but the quality of our friend (and in the Bible the word is singular!)
Thank you, Lord, for Marlene, for Keiko, for Mrs. Nakazawa. You’ve given me THREE good friends!
8/24/2021 — Philippians 2:14-15
“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be innocent and pure as God's perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and sinful people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky,”
Philippians 2:14-15 — Good News Bible
I want to shine…. And the Bible says I need to learn to live without grumbling or complaining. If I am to shine to my neighbors, my husband, to the generations to come, I must focus on trusting God and not questioning what He does in my life…
Our times are hard and becoming darker…. Can I trust God to work things for our good even if we are sick and suffering? Learn now!
8/23/2021 — Psalms 5:8
“Yahweh, lead me in the pathways of your pleasure just like you promised me you would, or else my enemies will conquer me. Smooth out your road in front of me, straight and level so that I will know where to walk.”
Psalms 5:8 — The Passion Translation
Though I know I am taught through the rocky roads of life and hills and struggles prepare me for greater things, still I pray that my children and grandchildren will have a smooth journey filled with successes.
Please Lord lead Luka and cause him to choose You as his leader throughout his life. I know the road is not always straight but make it easy for him to follow you. In Jesus name, Amen.
8/22/2021 — 2 Thessalonians 3:3
“But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect and guard you from the evil one.”
2 Thessalonians 3:3 — Amplified Bible
I pray for Luka and the grandchildren of my future. I pray for their protection and their faith. If nothing else, I can lay down my own firm belief in God that they can step upon someday. My foundation is built on trusting God. I hope they will add on with their own faith.
8/21/2021 — Psalms 71:18
“God, now that I’m old and gray, don’t walk away. Give me grace to demonstrate to the next generation all your mighty miracles and your excitement, to show them your magnificent power!”
Psalms 71:18 — The Passion Translation
Yes. What am I demonstrating to the generations after me? Through loving me God has shown me how to love. My legacy is to encourage and point others to the source of that love.
I would hope that each of my children and grandchildren and generations to come would receive God’s love and return it to the world. My dearest wish is for us all to glorify God together in eternity.
8/20/2021 — Psalms 92:14
“[Growing in grace] they will still thrive and bear fruit and prosper in old age; They will flourish and be vital and fresh [rich in trust and love and contentment];”
Psalms 92:14 — Amplified Bible
Isn’t this a lovely image? In my old age God says I can still having fresh ideas and energy. My new leaves and fruit will be of trusting the Lord, loving the people brought to mind and being content and at peace with the life I’ve been given.
Those are the gifts I can pass on to my children. Trust, love and contentment.
8/19/2021 — Psalms 103:17
“But Lord, your endless love stretches from one eternity to the other, unbroken and unrelenting toward those who fear you and those who bow facedown in awe before you. Your faithfulness to keep every gracious promise you’ve made passes from parents, to children, to grandchildren, and beyond.”
Psalms 103:17 — The Passion Translation
I was in a funk about what kind of world will be left to our children. What suffering will meet the generations beyond with diseases and wars and climate devastation that we haven’t controlled.
But today I think that though there is a mess that remains beyond my lifetime there is God and His love and His promises to care that will comfort generations to come.
8/18/2021 — Isaiah 40:31
“But those who wait for the Lord’s help find renewed strength; they rise up as if they had eagles’ wings, they run without growing weary, they walk without getting tired.”
Isaiah 40:31 —. New English Translation
It is good to remember that even though I may be tired or at a loss about to do next, God is with me, empowering me and regulating my energy. I may not be doing all that I once did but God does not love on the basis of deed. He will renew me for His works.
8/17/2021 — Luke 12:19-20
“…Self, you’ve done well! You’ve got it made and can now retire. Take it easy and have the time of your life!’ “Just then God showed up and said, ‘Fool! Tonight you die. Luke 12:19-20 — Message Bible
Wow! This hits close to
home! We’re retired and tired. We have monetary security and with the extra time we enjoy ourselves and relax.
Is this what God wants? Are the rest of our lives to be used for ourselves? But is my heart into volunteering, or church work? Is this a sign of my selfishness?
God is going to ask me to show him my results with what He gave me. I certainly don’t want to have LESS than I started with!
8/16/2021 — Proverbs 19:20
“Listen to advice and receive discipline, that you may become wise by the end of your life.”
Proverbs 19:20 — New English Translation
Though I do recognize how little I really understand, I also realize how stubborn I could get in my own age, protecting what I think I know.
I want to be open to advice, to correction (especially from Tetsu! Keep me from flaring up!) and be able to live in peace and joy with God.
8/15/2021 — Exodus 4:1-2
“Moses answered again, “And if they do not believe me or pay attention to me, but say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you’?” The Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A staff.””
Exodus 4:1-2 — New English Translation
I get to thinking… “what am I now? Getting old, not much motivation, not a lot of extra cash.”
But when Moses complained after God asked him to serve, God asked “what is in your hand.”
In my hand I have a sewing machine. I have pens. I have a computer. I am limited but actually I have a lot. I just need to think how to use them to glorify God.
God prepared Moses with a staff, David with a sling, a little boy with five loaves and two fish. What is in my hand?
8/14/2021 — Psalms 90:12
“So teach us to number our days, That we may cultivate and bring to You a heart of wisdom.”
Psalms 90:12 — Amplified Bible
I seem like I wander through life not planning for the future but as Covid closes in, I can’t help but wonder if our pleasant life isn’t in a precarious position.
In a blink, one of us could get Covid…. Symptoms could escalate… hospitalization could develop…. One of us could be left alone…
No! No! Don’t jump to the worse scenario! God is a God of hope! Praise Him for this day!
And consider how I could be living more wisely. With joy, with gratefulness, with love and kindness.
8/13/2021 — Matthew 6:9-13
“Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are. Set the world right; Do what’s best— as above, so below. Keep us alive with three square meals. Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil. You’re in charge! You can do anything you want! You’re ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes.”
Matthew 6:9-13 — Message Bible
My prayer begins with praise…. God reveals Himself in nature, in people, in the Bible. How marvelous His beauty! How kind His love! How deep His wisdom!
Yes, Lord! Set the world right!
Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
8/12/2021 — John 15:4
“Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me.”
John 15:4 — Amplified Bible
Living in God means staying in touch with Him, talking to Him and including Him. Just as I don’t need to be constantly babbling to my husband, I can relax near God and tell Him my thoughts or ask Him to figure something out for me. We share space and love.
My source of energy and well-being comes from being connected to God.
8/11/2021 — 2 Kings 1:19
“Now, O Lord our God, please, save us from his hand so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know [without any doubt] that You alone, O Lord, are God.””
2 Kings 19:19 — Amplified Bible
Look at King Hezekiah’s prayer. He had a major problem and logic (and doubters) told him the situation was hopeless. But he laid out the problem before God and GAVE THE CORRECT REASON FOR WANTING GOD TO COME TO HIS AID.
So that all the kingdoms of earth may know God.
Not… so that my problem is solved or my comfort is restored etc. Anything focused on ME may not be aligned to God’s will.
Make sure the “so that…” of my prayers focus on giving God the glory!
8/10/2021 — James 1:5
“If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father…”
James 1:5 — Message Bible
That pretty well covers it as I go about life usually not knowing what I’m doing….
I DO know that I’m following the Father and it works out!
8/9/2021 — Philippians
“Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.”
Philippians 4:6 — Good News Translation
With all that God has given me, how can I not be thankful?! He blesses me with family, He blesses me with health. He blesses me with a convenient place to live, He blesses me with talents. He blesses me with hobbies, He blesses me with finances. He blesses me with entertainment. He blesses me with faith.
Thank You, Lord!!
8/8/2021 — Proverbs 28:13
“Anyone who hides their sins doesn’t succeed. But anyone who admits their sins and gives them up finds mercy.”
Proverbs 28:13 — New International Reader’s Version
I remember the apologies that people have given me, not the issue so much.
God is the same, so many times more, so much purer than me. In a prayer, “coming clean” with God and confessing my attitude and mistakes is the only way to “become clean”.
8/7/2021 — 1 Chronicles 29:11
“O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, magnificent, glorious, and sovereign over all the sky and earth! You have dominion and exalt yourself as the ruler of all.”
1 Chronicles 29:11 — New English Translation
I’ve been thinking about adoration in my prayers… I seem to start my prayers the same way and run out of words…. I should make a list of how David starts his psalms…
Or I could begin each prayer time by listening to or singing praise music!
My job on earth, and in heaven eventually, is praising and glorifying God!
8/6/2021 — Daniel 6:10
“…And in his upper room, with his windows open, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days.”
Daniel 6:10 — New King James Version
Daniel was in a crisis situation and he went to his Lord in prayer, but actually he didn’t really change his normal habit of praying three times a day. He already had the custom of turning to God.
God will be with us in trials but during times of peace, cultivate a close relationship with Him with praise and thanksgiving.
8/5/2021 — Ephesians 6:6
“Always do what is right and not only when others are watching, so that you may please Christ as his servants by doing his will.”
Ephesians 6:6 — The Passion Translation
I watched winners in the Olympics and losers. But actually the one’s who lost, who congratulated the winners, the ones who sat defeated on the sidelines but continued their support, those were the ones who who chose right over pride, blessings over disappointment.
We don’t have crowds watching us in our lives but God is always our audience of One.
8/4/2021 — 2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he answered me, “My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.” So I will celebrate my weaknesses, for when I’m weak I sense more deeply the mighty power of Christ living in me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 — The Passion Translation
No matter how damaged or tired or how unfit for a job I feel, God is enough. He leads me quietly with love revealed in friends and family. He teaches me to look to Him. I may not yet rejoice in my weaknesses but I know that His hands are over mine, His feet will take me where I need to go.
8/3/2021 — 1 Thessalonians 5:17
“…pray all the time…”
1 Thessalonians 5:17 — Message Bible
Conversation prayers are a good habit to have. Instead of specific times and places, a running conversation with God will keep His presence uppermost in my mind and I will learn to include Him in the mundane as well as the intensive times of my day and life.
8/2/2021 — Job 42:2
““I know that you can do anything. No one can keep you from doing what you plan to do.”
Job 42:2 — New International Reader’s Version
God has His plans. There is a phrase “God laughs at the plan’s of man” which I don’t think is quite accurate because God doesn’t belittle our ideas and efforts, but the phrase does make clear that we need to keep our plans aligned to God.
My plans are good but maybe small. God can do anything and He will allow us to work with Him.
8/1/2021 — Matthew 6:24
““No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord].”
Matthew 6:24 — Amplified Bible
The old question…. “What do you spend most of your time doing?” I guess we know where your heart is!
We MAKE time for what we love. I spend a lot of time sewing…. I spend a lot of time being a wife. (Whew!) I spend a lot of time recently doing arty things that are a stab at reflecting my faith…. Is my time devoted to my love of God? That’s what God wants most. Don’t let other interests crowd out God.
7/31/2021 — Colossians 3:17
“Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks through him to God the Father.”
Colossians 3:17 — Good News Translation
All these athletes are striving for medals and one of them wins some may say “God gets all the glory.”
I would say that God gets all the glory even when we don’t win the medal. He gets the glory when we do our best, when we show good sportsmanship, when we bounce back from disappointments.
Live to give God the glory…. The gold of heaven is in my future.
7/30/2021 — Philippians 3:14
“I am like a runner who wants to reach the end of the race. I run straight towards that point, so that I can win God's gift. Because I belong to Christ Jesus, God has called me to live with him in heaven. That is God's gift to me at the end of the race.”
Philippians 3:14 — Easy English Bible
It is easy to lose sight of my goal and then tiredness and despair clicks in the place of determination.
It is scary to live through this pandemic but my goal is not complete health nor even a long life. My goal is to be faithful to God and to the business He has set me to (wife, neighbor, mother, teacher, pet owner, quilter…) And my eternal goal is glorifying Him in heaven, and that’s already promised me!
7/29/2021 — Hebrews 12:1
“As for us, we have this large crowd of witnesses around us. So then, let us rid ourselves of everything that gets in the way, and of the sin which holds on to us so tightly, and let us run with determination the race that lies before us.”
Hebrews 12:1 — Good News Bible
While watching the Olympics I think of how all the athletes have trained their bodies, dieting, exercising, refusing immediate temptation for the dreams of their futures. God gave them the gift of a strong body and they, in turn, are honoring Him by taking care of that body and using it to the best of its ability.
We too, who are not athletes, have been given bodies to do whatever it is God has set us to do… and our bodies are the vehicle for that purpose. Take care of the “temple” that we live in!
7/28/2021 — Luke 11:1
“THEN HE was praying in a certain place; and when He stopped, one of His disciples said to Him, Lord, teach us to pray, [just] as John taught his disciples.”
Luke 11:
C.S. Lewis wrote that the habit of prayer doesn’t change God, it changes us. Actually I pray hoping that God will step in, fix things, change things to match my wishes. But really God is allowing me speak with Him, molding me to His will and giving me knowledge of His presence.
“THEN HE was praying in a certain place; and when He stopped, one of His disciples said to Him, Lord, teach us to pray, [just] as John taught his disciples.”
Luke 11:1
C.S. Lewis wrote that the habit of prayer doesn’t change God, it changes us. Actually I pray hoping that God will step in, fix things, change things to match my wishes. But really God is allowing me speak with Him, molding me to His will and giving me knowledge of His presence.
7/27/2021 — Psalms 103:19
“God’s heavenly throne is eternal, secure, and strong, and his sovereignty rules the entire universe.”
Psalms 103:19 — The Passion Translation
God is intimate… He knows me inside-out, He loves me, He cares about what I do and think… and He is infinite…. He rules over all, His power and authority is bigger than the universe, more vast, more wonderful than I can imagine.
Praise be to God for nothing can upset Him or take Him by surprise. He is Lord of all.
7/26/2021 — Matthew 5:44
“But now I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
Matthew 5:44 — Good News Bible
It’s embarrassing to admit that while they not be considered enemies, relationships have become strained and there are former friends I now avoid. I feel bad for the harsh words, I feel bad for not being able to smooth things over, I feel bad for not forgiving and not being forgiven.
Those names who come to mind… I will pray for their happiness and their peace today.
7/25/2021 — Psalm 3:3
“But you, O LORD, are always my shield from danger; you give me victory and restore my courage.”
Psalms 3:3 — Good News Bible
Just knowing that God is always with me I am encouraged and feel empowered. His presence assures me that with God, there is always His victory in the end.
“Victory may not be yet, but through Him who loves us ultimate victory is offered us. No matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, no matter how much goes against us, the final outcome is assured. The Christ Presence says to us, ‘In this world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
David Adam - Eye of the Eagle
7/24/2021 — Ephesians 6:18
In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.”
Ephesians 6:18
The Bible puts so much emphasis on prayer. Though God can do anything, it seems that the prayers of His loved ones weakens the evil in this world and protects us and enables us to prosper.
Still I struggle at prayer… always going over the same things listed on my prayer wall, prayers either too guaranteed (healing for Tetsu’s cold) or too huge to measure (my children’s faith and happiness.)
Pray today and always.
7/23/2021 — Jeremiah 29:7
“Seek the prosperity of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord in its behalf; for in its prosperity will be your prosperity.’”
Jeremiah 29:7 — New American Standard Version
As COVID-19 moves across our country, more than ever I need to pray. Prayer will do more for Japan than complaining about how the government is handling things.
7/22/2021 — Colossians 1:9
“That’s why we have not stopped praying for you. We have been praying for you since the day we heard about you. We keep asking God to fill you with the knowledge of what he wants. We pray he will give you the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.”
Colossians 1:9 — New International Reader’s Version
This is my prayer for my children, for the people going through problems and suffering that I hear about, for myself.
Pray this prayer with people’s names inserted.
7/21/2021 — Romans 15:13
“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13 — New Living Translation
I want to base my hope on God.
It is easy to base hope (or hopelessness) on numbers. The Covid numbers are increasing…. Oh no! The Covid numbers are decreasing…. Yeah! I get thrown back and forth daily.
God loves me. God plans the best for me. God holds the world in His hand. That is the unchanging hope of my life.
7/20/2021 — Psalms 46:10
“Let be and be still, and know (recognize and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth!”
Psalm 46:10 — Amplified Bible
Let be and be still. I think that will be my theme this month. The heat is already doing me in and it is completely discouraging to be doing nothing and be so exhausted. I think I’m going to let drop all my goals and routines and just sit in someplace cool.
And how will God be exalted? Maybe by my not complaining about the heat.
7/19/2021 — James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.”
James 1:5 — Amplified Bible
I need to make a decision about when we are going to try and get to America. The decision is easy when we don’t have a choice.
“Lord, let me know when Your timing is right to travel again. Give us wisdom.
7/18/2021 — Romans 1:20
“Ever since God made the world, he has been showing people clearly about himself. We cannot see God. But the things that he has made show us clearly what he is like. We can understand his great power that continues for ever. We can know that he is the true God. So there is no reason for anyone to say, ‘We could not know about God.’”
Romans 1:20 — Easy English Bible
We had an amazing sunset this evening! What power and art and beauty!! There was a feeling of expectation, of God touching the earth or raising those He loves to the heavens!
Hallelujah!
7/17/2021 — Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
Psalms 46:10 — New King James Version
We are in a tiz about the Olympics scheduled to start next week in Japan amidst soaring COVID numbers and an unvaccinated country. This could go down in history as the turning point for the end of the world…
If it goes well, politicians will pay themselves on the back for their handling skills. If it goes poorly, God will be damned for not stepping in to save us all.
In heaven, we will be glorifying God and exalting His plan.
7/16/2021 — John 14:26
“But the Father will send the Friend in my name to help you. The Friend is the Holy Spirit. He will teach you all things. He will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
John 14:26 — New International Reader’s Version
What an amazing gift from the Father! He gives us the direction and He doesn’t even expect me to learn it all myself! He provides the teacher and even a prompter who will remind me when I forget!!
7/15/2021 — John 10:4
“And when he has brought out all his sheep, he walks ahead of them and they will follow him, for they are familiar with his voice.”
John 10:4 — The Passion Translation
Listen.
God speaks but unless I am listening, His voice gets lost in the rumble of everyday life. God speaks through people, through music, through the Bible. But for today I’m going to just sit and listen and see what I hear.
7/14/2021 — Luke 11:1
“One day, as Jesus was in prayer, one of his disciples came over to him as he finished and said, “Would you teach us a model prayer that we can pray, just like John did for his disciples?””
Luke 11:1 — The Passion Translation
I think I am too dependent on model prayers. I seek them out and read the beautiful words, savoring them and wishing I was so eloquent but I’m not sure if I learn to pray the same way. My halting, simple prayers seem to me only a sign of an immature Christian.
It is a comfort to know that God ears don’t just hear my words but also hear my heart.
7/13/2021 — Philippians 4:7
“Then God will get you to feel happy and quiet inside yourselves. You belong to Jesus Christ, and he will do that to look after your minds, so that you will think properly. Nobody knows how God does it, but he can do it.”
Philippians 4:7 — Plain English Version
Becoming quiet within myself…. God will cause that, protecting my mind.
God wants me at my best and He knows what makes me sad, what sends me into a panic. He knows my greatest fears. In all of that He is standing guard and promises to grant me peace when I ask for it…. I don’t understand how that will happen, but I trust that it will.
7/12/2021 — Matthew 28:20
“And teach them to faithfully follow all that I have commanded you. And never forget that I am with you every day, even to the completion of this age.””
Matthew 28:20 — The Passion Translation
This verse makes me think, who am I teaching to follow God? I can imaging maybe guiding a young grandchild but at this distance I’m not sure I’ll ever have the chance. I don’t even meet with people very much… and when we do we don’t talk about God. I feel like I’m missing the mark but hoping that my unspoken faith speaks louder than words.
7/11/2021 — Philippians 4:6-7
“Don’t worry about anything. No matter what happens, tell God about everything. Ask and pray, and give thanks to him. Then God’s peace will watch over your hearts and your minds. He will do this because you belong to Christ Jesus...”Philippians 4:6-7
God knows my list of worries. Animal problems, family faith, health concerns.
I can write them down. I can give thanks for them. I can pray and leave them to God. I can be in peace.
7/10/2021 — Exodus 17:9
“…Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.”
Exodus 17:9 — New Living Translation
God told Moses to use his staff to do God’s will. With this staff, miraculous things could be done and Moses was reminded each time he saw it and used it that God was using him to change the world.
God gives me so many things, needles, thread, pens, books. And He expects me to use them to change the world around me! I may not be working miracles but God can do anything if I just let Him work through me.
7/9/2021 — Luke 11:3
“Give us each day our daily bread.”
Luke 11:3 — Amplified Bible
God always has my daily bread prepared. He sets out his plans, his protection, his guidance, his comfort, his lesson, his discipline for me daily, depending on what I need. It is up to me to come to his table and take it. Here I am Lord. Send me.
7/8/2021 — Psalms 88:13
“But I have cried out to You, O Lord, for help; And in the morning my prayer will come to You.”
Psalms 88:13 — Amplified Bible
My Bible time here is in the morning but though I’ve set aside a prayer space, my prayer time is rather haphazard. Mornings, afternoons , before bed.
The Bible so often talks of praying in the morning and I know asking for guidance for the day is the wise thing to do…
7/7/2021 — Luke 11:1
…”Lord,” he said, “teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.””
Luke 11:1 — New International Revised Version
In some ways, praying is spontaneous, only a sudden cry to God for help or for guidance. But so many times more, I don’t really know what I want to pray for. I find myself thanking God instead of giving Him adoration and praise as I’d planned. I have to have intention or else I pass praying by by saying “God, already knows.” Even after all these years, I’m still learning to pray.
7/6/2021 — Psalms 57:10-11
“Your constant love reaches the heavens; your faithfulness touches the skies. Show your greatness in the sky, O God, and your glory over all the earth.”
Psalm 57:10-11 — Good News Translation
When I see the sunrise or more often the sunset I see God’s greatness as an artist. The colors he uses, the lights and shadows. How great are His works! How marvelous and frequent are His gifts of love and inspiration to us!
7/5/2021 Psalm 34:3
“Join me in giving glory to the Lord. Let us honor him together.”
Psalm 34:3 — New International Reader’s Version
I imagine hordes of birds gathered together tweeting and singing together. I imagine hundreds of bees swarming and buzzing and happily doing bee things. I imagine the whole earth recognizing Jesus as Lord and praising Him together with hands raised.
Hallelujah!
7/4/2021 — Psalms 104:33
“I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.”
Psalms 104:33 — New King James Version
Right now I think that I will always sing praises to the Lord, but I know when I am angry or sad or worried that the last thing I want to do is sing.
God sees my today as also my past and my future. Let my song of love still ring in His ears and my memory when circumstances make singing difficult.
Hallelujahs by Chris Rice
A purple sky to close the day
I wade the surf where dolphins play
The taste of salt, the dance of waves
And my soul wells up with hallelujahs
A lightning flash, my pounding heart
A breaching whale, a shooting star
Give testimony that you are
And my soul wells up with hallelujahs
Oh praise Him all His mighty works
There is no language where you can't be heard
Your song goes out to all the Earth
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
O cratered moon and sparrow's wings
O thunder's boom and Saturn's rings
Unveil our Father as you sing
And my soul wells up with hallelujahs
Oh praise Him all His mighty works
There is no language where you can't be heard
Your song goes out to all the Earth
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
The pulse of life within my wrist
A fallen snow, a rising mist
There is no higher praise than this
And my soul wells up
O my soul wells up
Yes my soul wells up with hallelujahs
7/3/2021 — Psalm 95:6
“Come, let us bow down and worship him. Let us fall on our knees in front of the Lord our Maker.”
Psalm 95:6 — New International Reader’s Version
Why do we not kneel down to pray anymore? I “play prayed” at my bedside as a child because I’d seen a picture of a kneeling child, but as an adult?
I remember when i first came to Japan, the wife of the elderly Japanese pastor of the Holiness denomination church I attended always kneeled when she prayed. She was so bent and wizened that there wasn’t much difference in her posture but the kneeling image of her remains in my memory.
7/2/2021 — Genesis 22:14
“Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which means “the Lord will provide”). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.””
Genesis 22:14 — New Living Translation
I remember Corrie Ten Boom’s story of father telling her that as a good father he gives her her train ticket just before the train arrives so she doesn’t lose it, so God provides the strength, the faith, the patience when we most need it. I believe when my need is greatest God will provide even though I don’t see it in my hand or self now.
7/1/2021 — Psalm 111:2
“How amazing are the deeds of the Lord! All who delight in him should ponder them.”
Psalms 111:2 — New Living Translation
Thank You, Lord. I praise Your name. You are all that is good, all that is right. You have claimed us as Your own, You have promised to keep us safe, You cause us to stay close to You.
I want to remember Your wondrous character, Your marvelous deeds, Your great love.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
6/30/2021 — Genesis 22:3
“The next morning Abraham got up early. He saddled his donkey and took two of his servants with him, along with his son, Isaac. Then he chopped wood for a fire for a burnt offering and set out for the place God had told him about.”
Genesis 22:3 — New Living Translation
God gave Abraham a mission. It sounds terrible (even up to having to slaughter a ram). Abraham did NOT want to obey God! But he did. He even made plans and preparations to obey. He prepared for the trip, he brought support, he kept His faith that God knew best and could be trusted.
My commitment to obedience has to be followed with a plan. Listen, read, prepare, get support, pray, do.
6/29/2021 — Psalms 105:4
“Seek more of his strength! Seek more of him! Let’s always be seeking the light of his face.”
Psalms 105:4 — The Passion Translation
How do I seek God’s face, God’s strength? How do I look for God? What’s my plan?
Knowing where do look! In nature! In anything beautiful. In people. Of course in the Bible.
And the other part of my plan is to seek Him regularly... daily in a quiet time, taking photos of lovely things, spending time with friends who know and love God!
6/28/2021 — John 13:17
“So now put into practice what I have done for you, and you will experience a life of happiness enriched with untold blessings!””
John 13:17 — The Passion Translation
Jesus obeyed God, giving up His own will for what His father willed, and now He tells me to do the same. Jesus loved others. He tells me to do the same. He spent time with God, He prayed, He changed peoples’ lives.
Do as Jesus did.
6/27/2021 — Psalms 26:2
“Examine me, Lord, and put me to the test; Refine my mind and my heart.”
Psalms 26:2 — New American Standard Bible
I don’t much like tests and I guess I’d prefer to guarantee my grade by studying long and hard. Which is interesting
because God’s test doesn’t require effort, just submission to His will. And I find that harder to do than by my own striving!!!
Obedience is the key.
6/26/2021 — John 5:30
“Jesus went on to say, ‘I can do nothing by myself. I hear what the Father says to me. Then, because of what he says, I judge. So, I judge in a way that is right. I am not trying to do what I myself want. The Father sent me, and I want to do what he wants.”
John 5:30 — Easy English Bible
As Jesus did, before an action, before a decision, ask God, LISTEN to Him and then make your move.
“Holy Spirit, think through me till your ideas are my ideas.” — Amy Carmichael
I DO want to do what God wants.
6/25/2021 — Psalms 25:14
“There’s a private place reserved for the lovers of God, where they sit near him and receive the revelation-secrets of his promises.”
Psalms 25:14 — The Passion Translation
I’d so like to think this verse points to my prayer space where I adore, confess, give thanksgiving and ask God to incline His ear (supplication). But the Word is more likely talking about my heart which needs to be open, honest, and willing to obey.
In that, I don’t consider my heart much of an altar to God. It is stubborn and self-serving. My first prayer today is that God will soften my heart and mold it to His will.
6/24/2021 — Psalms 32:8
“The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalms 32:8 — New Living Translation
God offers the love, the safety, the instruction, my choice is to obey or not. But a sign of loving God is obeying so why is it so hard to do? Even now, I hear myself saying in my head, “I’m just not going to do that Lord. You will have to work out another way or at the very least show me forgiveness.”
Help me, Lord, to be obedient to You. Thank you for knowing my fears and the feelings of my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen
6/23/2021 — Isaiah 47:8
“So now, listen to this, O one who lives so lavishly, who lives securely, who says to herself, ‘I am unique! No one can compare to me! I will never have to live as a widow; I will never lose my children.’”
Isaiah 47:8 — New English Translation
We watch the news and hear terrible and sad stories of crime, of illness. Just the non-reaction proves that I believe that could never be me!
And when disaster strikes the question is always, “why me?” “Why that loved one?”
When storms happen it does not mean I’ve fallen out of favor with God. Now, while life is calm, nurture a relationship and learn God’s ways so that I won’t be washed away in the tempest.
6/22/2021 — Mark 28:30-31
“You should love the Lord, your God completely: Love him with all your mind. Love him with all that you are. Love him in all that you think and all that you do.” The second most important rule is this: “You should love other people as much as you love yourself.” No other rules are as important as these two.’”
Mark 12:30-31 — Easy English Bible
What does this really mean? How do I love God with my whole self. I dedicate some time to worship and prayer. I declare my love. Is that enough?
I come back to the unconscious act of breathing. Breathe in God’s love, breathe out worship.
And how do I love my neighbor as myself? By praying for them. By giving everyone a smile. By being a presence in their lives.
6/21/2021 — John 15:12
““So this is my command: Love each other deeply, as much as I have loved you.”
John 15:12 — The Passion Translation
The ministry of presence. As God is always present, as much as I can I should practice being present to my friends and family. Of course when they are down and need comfort, be with them, not preaching, not giving advice, not trying to save them. Just be there as a listener, as God’s love in my flesh.
And why not make it a practice to be present in my daily encounters and conversations. Not distracted, not half listening. Be fully present.
6/20/2021 — Romans 6:11
“...Since you are now joined with him, you must continually view yourselves as dead and unresponsive to sin’s appeal while living daily for God’s pleasure in union with Jesus, the Anointed One.”
Romans 6:11 — The
Passion Translation
What pleasure do I put before the pleasure of being with God? None of them are necessarily bad but it is when they take priority over God, then I have put a crown on them.
In so many ways I fail to seek God first. But I do seek Him and find ways to spend time with Him. There is a long ways to go but I have come far. God recognizes that.
6/19/2021 — Psalms 51:6
“Sincerity and truth are what you require; fill my mind with your wisdom.”
Psalms 51:6 — Good News Bible
Who I am to the world and who God knows I am are disturbingly different. And yet He loves me.
The person I sometimes am, who can be irritable, explosive and cold is not the cheery, sociable, God-focused person I try to be. And God knows the struggles.
Help me Lord, to be what You know I can be. In Jesus’ name, Amen
6/18/2021 — Isaiah 7:4
“Tell him to keep alert, to stay calm, and not to be frightened or disturbed...” — Isaiah 7:4 — Good News Bible
God is with us. All else is ash and dust. There is protection and power and love behind me if I turn to face Jesus. Nothing really separates me from Him.
He is my shield, my strength, my portion, deliverer, my shelter, strong tower, my very present help in time of need. — He Has Made Me Glad
6/17/2021 — Jeremiah 29:12-13
“Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:12-13 — New King James Version
I have gone to my prayer corner. I have set my timer and listened to what God says to me. It is my prayer commitment start along with a prayer devotional...
I hope the ears of my heart will open wider to recognize God’s voice.
6/16/2021 — Luke 11:10
“Every persistent person will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he needs. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door.”
Luke 11:10 — The Passion Translation
God wants to answer our prayers. Keep remembering that as I wait. The glory of God is shown through answered prayer and God is not just trying to make a point or punishing because I don’t see the answer right away. The act of going to God in prayer makes Him happy!
6/15/2021 — Mark 11:24
“This is the reason I urge you to boldly believe for whatever you ask for in prayer—be convinced that you have received it and it will be yours.”
Mark 11:24 — The Passion Translation
The key word is “boldly”. My prayers seem so measured, like I’m weighing the probability of God answering it. Why not be outlandish?!
As long as I am close to God, as long as I know God’s will is more important than mine, then put those requests forward and wait on Him!
6/14/2021 — John 14:13
“And I will do whatever you ask for in my name, so that the Father's glory will be shown through the Son.”
John 14:13 — Good News Bible
If God says that answered prayers allow His glory to be shown, then He wants to answer our prayers. But if I don’t even remember what I’ve prayed about or thank God for giving me the answers, then how is that giving God the glory?
I’m thinking I need to get back to a prayer list.
6/13/2021 — Luke 18:1
“One day Jesus taught the apostles to keep praying and never stop or lose hope...”
Luke 18:1 — The Passion Translation
I get to thinking that if I’ve prayed about something once and it doesn’t go my way then God must have decided that He knows best and there is no reason for me to nag Him.
But the Bible says Elijah prayed numerous times for people and situations. Jesus said to not give up praying! So... it’s not nagging or being stubborn to pray for the same thing over and over!
6/12/2021 — Psalm 51:12
“Let my passion for life be restored, tasting joy in every breakthrough you bring to me. Hold me close to you with a willing spirit that obeys whatever you say.”
Psalms 51:12 — The Passion Translation
Adoration Confession Thanksgiving Supplication
My life with God begins with love for Him, trusting Him, thanking Him, following Him.
6/11/2021 — 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
“I do live in the world. But I don’t fight my battles the way the people of the world do. The weapons I fight with are not the weapons the world uses. In fact, it is just the opposite. My weapons have the power of God to destroy the camps of the enemy.”
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 — New International Readers Version
I’ve got a sewing room but it probably should be my prayer war room too. Though I haven’t seen the movie (waiting on the library book) I understand the need for a prayer strategy.
First step... pray before beginning any endeavor. God knows the problem, God knows the solution.
6/10/2021 — James 2:9
“But if you treat people according to their outward appearance, you are guilty of sin, and the Law condemns you as a lawbreaker.”
James 2:9 — Good News Bible
I am surely not prejudiced! But wait... do I judge people because of their outward appearance? I step away from the homeless... I raise my eyebrow at heavily tattooed young people... I speak in a different voice when talking with the elderly...
Lord, help me to see people as You see them. Let me observe their hearts rather than their appearance. In Jesus name, Amen
6/9/2021 — Ecclesiastes 4:9
“Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9 — New International Reader’s Version
What do I look for in a friend? Actually having a Christian friend is important to me because I don’t have to pretend. With other friends I feel I can’t admit my sadness or frustration or anger or discontent because they will think that my faith isn’t enough.
By the same standard I want to accept people with all their failures and quirks.
6/8/2021 — 2 Corinthians 10:5?
“...I keep every thought under control in order to make it obey Christ.”
2 Corinthians 10:5 — New International Reader’s Version
It is not so easy to keep thoughts under control. The more I say “I’m not going to think about this.” the more my mind goes to that very thing.
Instead, refocus. Whatever is good, whatever is lovely... get your mind on another project, on another person other than yourself.
6/7/2021 — Isaiah 61:3
“To give to those who mourn in Zion Joy and gladness instead of grief, A song of praise instead of sorrow. They will be like trees That the LORD himself has planted. They will all do what is right, And God will be praised for what he has done.”
Isaiah 61:3 — Good News Bible
When there is grief and sadness, it is hard to imagine that any day will ever be bright again. I wonder if I will ever have the strength, the faith, to face a loss too terrible to speak of...
But I have before, (the loss of our daughter, Maya) and here I am... content and happy in my life.
God is faithful.
6/6/2021 — James 1:6
“But when you ask God for something, you must trust him completely. Do not have other ideas in your mind. Anybody who is not sure that God will help him, is like the water that is in the sea. The wind blows the water one way and then it blows the water another way.”
James 1:6 — Easy English Bible
This is why, before making a decision, I should ask God for wisdom. Then I believe He will direct me with thoughts, intuition, and circumstances. Do not go over and over about whether I’ve made the right decision or not. No second guessing! I can trust God’s path because I know He is involved in the decision.
6/5/2021 — Proverbs 13:20
“If you want to grow in wisdom, spend time with the wise. Walk with the wicked and you’ll eventually become just like them.”
Proverbs 13:20 — The Passion Translation
Having godly friends is a way to uplift each other and remind each other of God’s wisdom.
I have a couple Christian Japanese friends but with social distancing keeping us from church I’m slowly losing touch with them.
Watch who my friends are. Find ways to connect with my wise friends.
6/4/2021 — James 1:25
“But those who look closely into the perfect law that sets people free, who keep on paying attention to it and do not simply listen and then forget it, but put it into practice — they will be blessed by God in what they do.”
James 1:25 — Good News Bible
There are steps in becoming a quilter. See something inspiring. Desire to do it. Read up on it. Practice. Teach someone else.
Making God’s Word my own starts with being touched by His message. Desiring to live with God. Reading the Bible for instruction and intimacy. Putting God’s commands into actions. Telling someone else of what God has done for me.
6/3/2021 — James 1:2
“My brothers and sisters, you will face all kinds of trouble. When you do, think of it as pure joy.”
James 1:2 — New International Revised Version
It’s your choice to rejoice.
What does rejoicing mean to me? It’s not just singing praise songs or smiling a lot. It is not positive thinking...
But it combines all that by remembering that all things work together for my good because I love God.
Today I will sing and dance (yes I will!) in rejoicing in my Lord!
6/2/2021 — James 1:5
“And if anyone longs to be wise, ask God for wisdom and he will give it! He won’t see your lack of wisdom as an opportunity to scold you over your failures but he will overwhelm your failures with his generous grace.”
James (Jacob) 1:5 — The Passion Translation
In all of the trials and hardships we face, the question “why?” turns up. “Why did this happen?” “Why did God allow this?” I ask it all the time but then I realize that God never promised to tell me the reasons for anything He does. He only said to trust Him.
The more important questions might start with “what?” “What am I suppose to learn?” “What can I do that will please God the most?”
The “what” is more tied to wisdom than the “why”.
6/1/2021 — Isaiah 43:2
“When you go through deep water, I will be with you. When you cross dangerous rivers, you will not drown. When you walk through fire, it will not burn you. The flames will not destroy you.”
Isaiah 43:2 — Easy English Version
Thanks be to God, my life is pretty quiet right now... is there something that I fear right now?
When my thoughts go to “what if...” maybe that is a glimpse of the fear I may have.
“What if our health doesn’t hold?”
“What if we have to move in the near future?”
“What if Corona life continues for years to come?”
God has me and knows my future and has plans. He is good.
5/31/2021 — Colossians 3:13
“Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. You must forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven you.”
Colossians 3:13 — Good News Bible
When we start talking about forgiveness I start getting antsy. It is the spiritual topic I least like thinking about. And the reason why is because I have some forgiveness issues I haven’t dealt with.
God tells me to forgive and I choose to do that daily. I just don’t like the idea of greeting the person again like nothing has happened. That would make me feel fake.
What is the answer?
5/30/2021 — Proverbs 15:1
“Respond gently when you are confronted and you’ll defuse the rage of another. Responding with sharp, cutting words will only make it worse. Don’t you know that being angry can ruin the testimony of even the wisest of men?”
Proverbs 15:1 — The Passion Translation
I can attest that responding with anger when my husband is angry with me only makes the problem much much worse. Gentleness is the key (but sometimes I think I’m the only one trying to practice gentleness). And I can also say that after any hard words on my part I really do feel that my testimony of God’s peace in me has been sullied.
Take a deep breath, say a quick prayer, walk away and forget it.
5/29/2021 — James 2:20
“How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?”
James 2:20 — New Living Translation
Faith is something you do.
5/28/2021 — Psalms 23:4
“Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me.”
Psalms 23:4 — Amplified Bible
In order for there to be a shadow, there has to be a light. When fear is my shadow then look for God who is the light. Walk past the shadow to the light.
5/27/2021 — James 1:21
“So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you.”
James 1:21 — Good News Bible
When I accept God’s Word I am not saying that I will understand everything or even think it is a reasonable instruction. I am saying that even before I open my Bible I will believe that it is God’s message for me and that it is good and perfect.
I may not understand nor want to obey nor even agree but I ACCEPT that it is from God and directly to me.
5/26/2021 — 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.”
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 — New Living Translation
I think back into the clashes with Tetsu in the last year. At times I really did despair of getting back to smiles and cheerfulness. And I certainly didn’t feel God’s presence.
Things change. The source of the clashes disappeared. The friendship and love came back.
I regret my lack of understanding and faith. I realize how fragile relationships are. I ask God’s protection from a repeat, and I hope I’ve learned to live through problems with hope of a better future.
5/25/2021 — James 2:18
“But someone will say, “One person has faith, another has actions.” My answer is, “Show me how anyone can have faith without actions. I will show you my faith by my actions.””
James 2:18 — Good News Bible
This is actually a confusing verse for me. My actions (or my scope of actions) grow smaller as I grow older and even more so during the pandemic. I don’t think my faith is shown by my works. I cook, I clean, I sew.
And my attitude hopefully doesn’t reflect my faith because I’m often moody or negative. Yet I strive to trust God daily. I am comforted my His promises. I reflect on my day according to God’s guidance.
Where is my faith reflected?
5/24/2021 — Matthew 12:34
“...For what has been stored up in your hearts will be heard in the overflow of your words!”
Matthew 12:34 — The
Passion Translation
It seems pretty clear. If I want my words and deeds to be good then I’d better work on my heart. Conversely, if I want my heart to be filled with love, then I’d better check and see how my words and my activities are going.
I need to fill my heart with positive thoughts, peace and love, and the surest way to do that is to keep God and his love settled deeply there.
5/23/2021 — Proverbs 29:11
“Foolish people let their anger run wild. But wise people keep themselves under control.”
Proverbs 29:11 — New International Revised Version
There is a good way to be angry and a bad way. Obviously flying off at the handle isn’t a great choice but holding it all in isn’t the godly choice either. (Though some translations say just that.) I don’t show my anger well but boy, do I let it fester inside me! That definitely isn’t biblical!
Have a plan for when anger strikes. Count to ten, say a prayer, write your feelings down, talk it out at a calmer date.
5/22/2021 — James 2:22
“So you see that what he believed and what he did were working together. What he did made his faith complete.”
James 2:22 — New International Revised Version
There are things I can control and things I can’t. I can’t control the pandemic. I can’t control how the government responds. I CAN control my attitude and my own actions.
My faith is shown by my actions. I will trust God with what I cannot control and focus on making good choices with what I can.
5/21/2021 — Galatians 6:2
“Carry one another’s heavy loads. If you do, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2 — New International Revised Version
I have a friend whom I can tell my problems to and who will pray for me. Yet often I don’t leave it at that. I tell my problems to someone and then to someone else again until I’m probably just playing the martyr.
Talk to God. Tell a godly friend. Leave it alone.
5/20/2021 — James 4:6
“But he continues to pour out more and more grace upon us. For it says, God resists you when you are proud but continually pours out grace when you are humble.””
James (Jacob) 4:6 — The Passion Translation
“Grace is when God gives you what you need not what you deserve.”
Grace is a beautiful name. (My mother’s name was Grace.) Grace is kindness and gentleness.
Because God has granted grace to me, He tells me to give grace to others... be kind. See things their way. Be understanding. We all have bad days, worries, a history that makes us sensitive to slights. Who knows but the person who is rubbing me the wrong way may just need me to let it go and not make a fuss. Give the person grace, because God has given me enough.
5/19/2021 — James 2:1
“My brothers and sisters, as believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, you must never treat people in different ways according to their outward appearance.”
James 2:1 — Good News Bible
I remember once walking in down town LA with my brother’s family when we were approached by a homeless person. I tensed up, tried to hide behind my brother. The lady asked my brother for a cigarette and my brother handed her one and proceeded to light it for her. ...Treating her as the lady she was...
The problems with the homeless are beyond my understanding. I don’t approve of smoking. But my brother’s pleasant, lighting up, one smoker with another, stays in my mind these many years later.
5/18/2021 — 1 Samuel 16:7
“But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature... ...For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.””
I Samuel 16:7 —New King James Version
What if we all saw each other as God sees us. A variety of personalities, experiences and talents.
God looks at my heart (which isn’t the cleanest) and he sees the good within me. May I look at everyone in the same way.
5/17/2021 — 2 Chronicles 19:7
“Now then, let the fear of the LORD be upon you; be careful about what you do, for the LORD our God will have no part in injustice or partiality, or in the taking of a bribe.””
2 Chronicles 19:7 — New American Standard Bible
Prejudice and racism. I don’t even want to think about it or wonder if it has anything to do with my life.
But, I can be blasé about the race issue in Japan (always the foreigner), or open minded and a bit proud about how my own family has married and mixed the races. Isn’t the awareness at all a type of prejudice?
Lord, search my heart and purify my thoughts. Let me love EVERYONE because You made variety and love us all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
5/16/2021 — James 2:8
“Your calling is to fulfill the royal law of love as given to us in this Scripture: “You must love and value your neighbor as you love and value yourself!” For keeping this law is the noble way to live.”
James (Jacob) 2:8 — The Passion Translation
The people in my neighborhood are having a battle. The more we have to do with each other, the more the gossip and bashing occur.
I want to be a good neighbor but I’m not stepping in to take sides and I don’t like listening to the complaints. How can I express love while closing my ears?
5/15/2021 — James 2:17
“So then faith that doesn’t involve action is phony.”
James (Jacob) 2:17 — The Passion Translation
Who am I helping today? It seems very selfish to just stay safe and be content. Japan’s need during this pandemic must be great, but I don’t see the need in my immediate area...
I don’t want a phony faith... how am I making a difference by sewing and smiling and being content?
5/14/2021 — James 2:14
“Dear friends, do you think you’ll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? James 2:14 Message Bible
Especially in this time of staying home, and even just because our retired lifestyle is limited and quiet, I wonder where my faith is acted out. I can declare it all I want, but do my attitude and actions follow?
Salvation is by faith, not actions. But actions are the evidence. When I am no longer required to act out my faith, then God will take me to eternity. Praise and worship will continue there!
5/13/2021 — Matthew 4:4
“...The Bible says that food alone cannot cause people to live. They need to hear every word that God speaks. Then they can really live.’”
Matthew 4:4 — Easy English Bible
Which has changed me more this year? The world situation or God’s Word?
If I’m honest, as the world changed I changed... in the way I socialize, in the way I spend my time.
BUT... it is God that has allowed the world to change and He has enabled me to adapt and to live in peace BECAUSE I spend some time in the morning thinking on His Word.
Staying steadfast in God’s Word doesn’t always bring about flashy changes and being rooted is another of His gifts.
5/12/2021 — Philippians 4:13
“I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13 — New English Translation
The first step is the most important. Everything begins with the first step.
Or maybe the second step is the most important. The power of continuing is the secret to success.
Or maybe the idea is the most important. Without the idea no dream could be born.
God supplies the inspiration (idea), the motivation (my step of faith) and the energy (the ability to continue) to do His will.
5/11/2021 — 1 John 2:6
“the one who says that he remains in Him ought, himself also, walk just as He walked.” 1 John 2:6 — New American Standard Bible
With each minute of the day, I have the choice of walking to the tune of my own desires or choosing to obey Jesus.
WWJD was a big movement years ago and it holds true today, though instead of imitating Him I would add consult Him as he walks beside me minute to minute.
5/10/2021 — Psalm 118:24
“This [day in which God has saved me] is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalms 119:24 — Amplified Bible
God gave me life and then He gave me eternal life. The time on this earth is made for rejoicing and learning and helping others.
Don’t label each day of the week as a checkmark pointing to the weekend. Each day is an opportunity to help, to learn and to rejoice.
5/9/2021 — Psalm 90:12
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.”
Psalms 90:12 — Modern English Version
There are no ordinary days. Do not go around wishing for extraordinary and grumbling about routine as if life is a burden. Every moment is special.
Learn to fix your mind on the good and rejoice. Learn to accept the bad and claim them as lessons.
Do not sort things into ordinary and special. Each of the 1440 minutes in a day are from God.
5/8/2021 — Ephesians 5:15
“Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people],”
Ephesians 5:15 — Amplified Bible
1440. Everyday God gives us 1440 minutes in a day to enjoy.
Do not spend those precious 1440 minutes regretting the past. Even the pleasures and wisdom of yesterday are processed during the minute of today.
Do no spend those precious 1440 minutes worrying about the future. Even the plans and precautions made for tomorrow are processed during the minute of today.
The present is God’s PRESENT to us.
5/7/2021 — 1 Peter 1:18-19
“You were set free from an empty way of life. This way of life was handed down to you by your own people of long ago. You know that you were not bought with things that can pass away, like silver or gold. Instead, you were bought with the priceless blood of Christ. He is a perfect lamb. He doesn’t have any flaws at all.”
1 Peter 1:18-19 — Nee International Revised Version
Is it so hard to accept Jesus and the new, vibrant life he brings? Patients will accept blood transfusions... blood that will restore health and vitality, blood that changes their weak state into strength.
The blood of Jesus has renewed me and given me life.
5/6/2021 — Exodus 4:10
“Moses spoke to the Lord. He said, “Lord, I’ve never been a good speaker. And I haven’t gotten any better since you spoke to me. I don’t speak very well at all.””
Exodus 4:10 — New International Revised Version
I relate to Moses. Probably even before I came to Japan I wasn’t good with speaking in front of people. I was shy and hated having to give an opinion or praying aloud.
And now that I’m in a different language, well I have an even harder time though I’m not as shy and figure any strange things I say can be written off that I’m a foreigner.
I remember a missionary once saying grace at a meal we were sharing.
“Father, thank you.”
What more needs to be said?
5/5/2021 — James 1:17
“Every gift God freely gives us is good and perfect, streaming down from the Father of lights, who shines from the heavens with no hidden shadow or darkness and is never subject to change.”
James (Jacob) 1:17 — The Passion Translation
I’ve tried to figure out which gifts God has given me and how He wants me to use them. Are they just the things I enjoy? Are they the situations God puts in my life? Are they the changes I fear?
My life changes but God never does. He plans only good for me.
5/4/2021 — James 1:25
“But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a [careless] listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does [in his life of obedience].”
James 1:25 — Amplified Bible
Like most things, we learn by doing, not just by reading or explaining.
I’m teaching a friend to quilt. She’s reading quilting magazines, she’s listening to me explain the finer points, she might be explaining to her family what she’s been doing. But my biggest advice is “do it.” There is a motor memory that kicks in with repetition.
With God’s lessons too. “Just do it!”
5/3/2021 — Psalm 73:28
“But as for me, it is good for me to stay near to God. I have gone to the Lord God as the place where I can be safe. I will tell people about the great things that you have done.”
Psalms 73:28 — Easy English Bible
God is my safe place. His Word gives me comfort when I am sad, encouragement when I’m worried, guidance when I seek what to do. I am protected when I feel alone, I am strengthened when there is a battle in my future.
5/2/2021 — John 16:32
“Look, a time is coming – and has come – when you will be scattered, each one to his own home, and I will be left alone. Yet I am not alone, because my Father is with me.”
John 16:32 — New English Translation
I think both my husband and I worry about being left on our own someday, but it’s highly possible (being younger, being a woman) that I’ll be the left behind spouse... our children live far away, with their own families... if Tetsu isn’t here then who is with me?
God is. I want to remember that even if I’m left alone, I am not really alone. Jesus felt the same way. It is all the more reason to lean more and more on God now.
5/1/2021 — Isaiah 26:3
“Lord, you will give perfect peace to those who commit themselves to be faithful to you. That’s because they trust in you.”
Isaiah 26:3 — New International Revised Version
Some waiting is easy and some is very hard. I admit that God has blessed me with interests and hobbies that have made this pandemic more bearable than I expected. On the other hand, waiting for my mother to pass a couple years ago, waiting for Takumi to return to health last year, those periods of waiting made me teary and doubting.
I do have peace today, both in the present and in the outcomes of waiting on family... in God’s eyes it is all in His present. May I see the periods of waiting in my life through God’s eyes.
4/30/2021 — Psalm 37:7
“Wait patiently for the LORD! Wait confidently for him!...”
Psalms 37:7 — New English Translation
I understand that we are to wait patiently. In some versions the translation is ‘trusting’ or ‘faithfully’. But I love this version that says ‘confidently’!
What if we wait with our heads high, our chests full and boastful.
“Yes! My God is coming through for me! There is no possibility of disappointment or failure!”
There’s no reason for pinched faces or apologetic excuses. God has already aced this!
4/29/2021 — Psalm 119:105
“Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your word makes my pathway clear.”
Psalms 119:105 — The Passion Translation
God’s message to me today is written in His Bible! It is not by chance that I read a verse! He has a message of truth or comfort or command there for me this very day!
4/28/2021 — 2 Thessalonians 1:3
“Our Christian friends, we ought always to thank God because of you. It is right that we do this, because you are learning to trust Christ more and more. All of you are also loving each other more and more.”
2 Thessalonians 1:3 Easy English Bible
I do not miraculously lose weight. I do not suddenly become an artist. I have not instantly become satisfied with my quilting. John is not a loving dog just because we adopted him.
IT ALL TAKES TIME!!!
Learning to walk with God takes time too. Everyday I take a new step to make my faith stronger, to focus my eyes more on God.
Sometimes I despair at how little progress I make in drawing, in quilting, in training John, in losing weight and is being godly. But everything begins with a first step and we are to be praised for continuing the journey.
4/27/2021 — Matthew 21:22
...”Absolutely everything, ranging from small to large, as you make it a part of your believing prayer, gets included as you lay hold of God.”
Matthew 21:22 — Message Bible
God is in the small things. The small things I do in life are all guided by God. There are no coincidences, all is orchestrated by God.
God speaks to me through circumstances probably because I don’t understand His will automatically. I try to keep in touch with what I know of His nature, what I’ve gleaned from the Bible and then my training ground is life with all its tiny frustrations and joys.
4/26/2021 — 1 John 4:10
“Here is what love is. It is not that we loved God. It is that he loved us and sent his Son to give his life to pay for our sins.”
1 John 4:10 — New International Revised Version
My desire is to love God completely... but I am so far off the mark. And then I realize again that love is not from me, it originates from God. God loves me first and I claim that and return that love in worship. And then I pass that love along to others around me, those lovable and unlovable.
4/25/2021 — Colossians 1:10
“We pray that you would walk in the ways of true righteousness, pleasing God in every good thing you do. Then you’ll become fruit-bearing branches, yielding to his life, and maturing in the rich experience of knowing God in his fullness!”
Colossians 1:10 — The Passion Translation
God waits for us to let Him into our lives. Everything is laid out so simply for us. No appointments, no degrees, no waiting or standing in lines. No danger, no fees. Only believe in Jesus, invite Him to control our lives, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
4/24/2021 — Isaiah 40:28
“Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The LORD is the everlasting God; he created all the world. He never grows tired or weary. No one understands his thoughts.”
Isaiah 40:28 — Good News Bible
We are encouraged to know God. And yet we are told that He is too great to be known! Which is it?!
I will never understand God’s plans and ways and I remind myself that He is not required to let us in on everything... as if my understanding changes a situation...
But I do know that the peace of my heart comes from knowing the nature of God. He is loving. He loves me. He is good. He is almighty.
4/23/2021 — 1 Timothy 6:6
“We have a “profit” that is greater than theirs—our holy awe of God! To have merely our necessities is to have enough.”
1 Timothy 6:6 — The Passion Translation
I have enough! If my
necessities are met (and they always are) then I have the choice of being content or discontent. Do not let other’s abundance, advertising, or my own short sightedness take away the simple joys God gives me each and every day.
4/22/2021 — Romans 8:28
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
Romans 8:28 — New Lining Translation
Humans have learned to fix a lot of things. I can repair a hole in a sweater or mend an old seam in a quilt. Tetsu is pretty good at fixing doors and appliances. A few years ago doctors fixed my knee problem with surgery.
But there are things that only God can fix and since He has the overall blueprint for the way our world works, he knows best.
4/21/2021 — 2 Corinthians 4:18
“So we don’t spend all our time looking at what we can see. Instead, we look at what we can’t see. That’s because what can be seen lasts only a short time. But what can’t be seen will last forever.”
2 Corinthians 4:18 — New International Revised Version
When traveling our family adopted the saying,
“problems should be seen as adventures and they will become memories.”
Instead of getting frustrated or disappointed at life’s turns, think of them as opportunities for God to show and teach and gift us with new experiences.
4/20/2021 — Luke 6:45
“People are known in this same way. Out of the virtue stored in their hearts, good and upright people will produce good fruit. But out of the evil hidden in their hearts, evil ones will produce what is evil. For the overflow of what has been stored in your heart will be seen by your fruit and will be heard in your words.”
Luke 6:45 — The Passion Translation
“What you have overflowing is just evidence of what is in your heart.” - From the Shadow of My Front Porch
I have quilts overflowing from my closets. I guess we already knew where my heart was. Hopefully this is a storing up of good rather than evil.
On the other side, there is an awful lot of junk in this house too... stuff I procrastinate about, close my eyes to, the dust and mold is disgusting.
I want to keep my house AND my heart fresh and sparkling! I want to adorn it with quilts and God’s radiance!
4/19/2021 — Psalm 51:7
“God, create a pure heart in me. Give me a new spirit that is faithful to you.”
Psalm 51:10 — New International Revised Version
Some days I’m blue and some days I’m joyful. Some days God feels far away and some days I feel Him guiding me.
Each day God creates as a new start with a new heart. Each day I can choose to stay faithful to Him and to the things He gives me to care for.
4/18/2021 — Mark 4:24
“Then he said to them, “Be diligent to understand the meaning behind everything you hear, for as you do, more understanding will be given to you. And according to the depth of your longing to understand, much more will be added to you.”
Mark 4:24 — The Passion Translation
My husband and I have different ideas of faith... I want to search, apply, think about. My husband considers believing, declaring and resting in God enough. And I think we are both right.
My forever seeking to be closer smacks of working for my faith... but just resting in it seems too complacent for me.
God’s faith is different for different people. The raise your hands in praise, the kneel at the bedside in prayer... God sees the heart.
4/17/2021 — 2 Corinthians 4:7
“We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.”
2 Corinthians 4:7 — New Living Translation
I so love a praise song we sing in our Japanese church about being a cracked and broken vessel of clay.
God has fashioned us, clay that is rough and full of flaws. We are kneaded, shaped, fired and sometimes there are still cracks that God didn’t remove, or chips resulting from trauma later...
But God’s light shines through those cracks making more beauty than something whole.
Maybe I’ve been made not to hold water but to glow!
4/16/2021 — Psalms 46:10
“He says, “Stop your striving and recognize that I am God! I will be exalted over the nations! I will be exalted over the earth!””
Psalms 46:10 — New English Translation
What am I striving for today? Maybe for ideas for a new quilt... for greater skills in improving my lettering and drawing... for my fitness goals.
I strive to know God better, to stay healthy during this pandemic!
God will do what He plans, he will add to me as He wishes. My job is to follow his guidance for TODAY.
Tanya, be cheerful today, be encouraging today, get your chores done and enjoy the hours that are left.
4/15/2021 — Ephesians 6:13
“So put on all of God’s armor. Evil days will come. But you will be able to stand up to anything. And after you have done everything you can, you will still be standing.”
Ephesians 6:13 — New International Revised Version
Things do not look so good for Japan and the pandemic this month. It is very likely that dark days are in our future.
We prepare with hand gels and masks but I’m also writing down God’s encouragement, lifting my heart with praises and song so that I can remember and flip back to them later.
God’s Word is my armor.
4/14/2021 — Psalm 126:6
“So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.”
Psalm 126:6 — Message Bible
I guess you could say that I’m a big believer in small steady steps. The key word is steady.
Cleaning a LITTLE every day. Doing a BIT of sewing regularly. Nowadays it’s sketching for five minutes each day.
The beginning is always filled with groans of frustrations and sighs that this is an effort that is maybe better to abandon. But I trust, have faith, that the small attempts will add up... Someday.
God smiles at my effort and blesses my daily projects.
4/13/2021 — 1 Corinthians 15:58
“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 — New Living Translation
I consider the people I’ve witnessed to and brought to church who turned their backs on God and me.
“What a waste of effort. How tired I feel after being rejected.”
But God says that it WASN’T a waste! It just is in a different time frame. God will use every bit of my work!
4/12/2021 — Isaiah 46:9
“Remember the former things long past, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me,”
Isaiah 46:9 — New American Standard Bible
I remember my grandparents’ dedication to their church... they made flower arrangements for the altar, they participated in their church activities.
I remember my mother always at her church serving in quiet ways, not very vocal about proclaiming her faith maybe, but living it.
What will my family remember about my faith? What will be my legacy? I fail God in so many ways... maybe my effort?
4/11/2021 — Isaiah 30:21
“If you wander off the road to the right or the left, you will hear his voice behind you saying, “Here is the road. Follow it.””
Isaiah 30:21 — Good News Bible
I think my husband needs a hearing aid. It’s either that or he chooses what he wants to hear!
I’m guilty of choosing to listen to God but I’m afraid I truly miss a lot of His messages to me. I want to be the kind of Christian who is able to hear God at all the turns of my life.
What is my “hearing aid” in this life? The Bible? Prayer?
4/10/2021 — Romans 10:3
“For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law.”
Romans 10:3 — New Living Translation
I’m rather bummed out with myself. I made a huge mistake yesterday causing a friend A LOT of wasted time. On top of that I was bashing her, (to Tetsu) blaming her for our misunderstanding. I’m hoping she didn’t hear my complaints though I realized we were still connected (30 minutes - cell phone!)
How dark and dirty I am. Even if my friend didn’t hear, blaming her, bashing her in word or in thought, doesn’t change who I am.
What this has to do with today’s verse, I don’t know but I need forgiveness from God and my friend.
4/9/2021 — John 10:29
“My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”
John 10:29 — New American Standard Bible
I worry that I am so weak (I know myself) that when trials or sickness or despair comes I’ll turn my back on God and my faith.
But I put myself into God’s hand many years ago and He has brought me through all sorts of disappointments and sorrow. He is not going to let me slip through His fingers. He is not going to let Satan steal me away.
And that is true of other believers who are going their own ways now. God still has claim on them.
4/8/2021 — Hebrews 12:5
“And have you forgotten his encouraging words spoken to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t underestimate the value of the discipline and training of the Lord God, or get depressed when he has to correct you.”
Hebrews 12:5 — The Passion Translation
I’m not even sure I can differentiate between God’s discipline and the disappointments I bring upon myself or are just part of life. Illness isn’t caused by God. Problems are so often because of my own stubbornness.
But maybe the challenges of learning to live with problems are part of the training that God allows.
4/7/2021 — Ephesians 1:3
“Every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realm has already been lavished upon us as a love gift from our wonderful heavenly Father, the Father of our Lord Jesus—all because he sees us wrapped into Christ. This is why we celebrate him with all our hearts!”
Ephesians 1:3 — The Passion Translation
I get to go with God wherever He goes, because He is my father. I’m not going to get kicked out or left behind. What God has (everything) I have.
As long as I stick close to God I won’t get lost. And if I stray, God will come looking for me!
4/6/2021 — Romans 12:1
“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”
Romans 12:1 — New Living Translation
This is a small thing... my body and how I care for it. Over the past year I’ve gained about 5 pounds and I’m not happy about it and beat myself up.
At my age why am I concerned with appearance? God doesn’t care what I look like! But I do and I don’t feel good about myself.
I remember reading about someone who was overweight and sick, yet she thanked her body for carrying her all her life despite the negative input from her family. My mind either needs to be accepting of what I am, or I’ve got to take action.
Lord help me sacrifice my BODY to You and get back to thinking about more important things than weight.
4/5/2021 — Psalms 19:14
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Psalm 19:14 — English Standard Version
“If you can’t be kind, be quiet.”
If my heart is bitter, the words I speak become bitter too. I need to train my heart to find beautiful things, happy things, things I’m grateful for. My words will follow and in the meantime I’d better hold tight to those angry words.
4/4/2021 — Philippians 1:6
“I know that God has begun to do good things in you. And I am sure that he will continue to work in you. Then, on the day when Jesus Christ returns, his work in you will be finished.”
Philippians 1:6 — Easy English Bible
Even though I get tired of trying to be faithful, positive, prayerful, and loving, God does not give up on me.
Humans say,
“I’ve tried to help you and you need to change your ways, and since you won’t, I wash my hands of you.”
I’ve said it to myself!
But God led me to His salvation and He will see me through into eternity with Him.
At least I know where I’m going.
4/3/2021 — Genesis 28:16
“Jacob awakened out of his sleep, and he said, “Surely Yahweh is in this place, and I didn’t know it.””
Genesis 28:16 — World English Bible
Is there any place where God isn’t? That was my first thought when I read this verse. Does God leave a place when it is not as He wishes?
So if I believe that God is in every place then I believe He is with me at all times. If I believe He is with be al all times then I believe He knows my situation and hears me when I talk with Him.
4/2/2021 — Psalms 32:7
“Lord, you are my secret hiding place, protecting me from these troubles, surrounding me with songs of gladness! Your joyous shouts of rescue release my breakthrough. Pause in his presence”
Psalms 32:7 — The Passion Translation
I would have thought that this period of sheltering down would have resulted in a quieter, more spiritual time with God. My schedule was less busy, I wasn’t going out and about. I was in my hiding place... with a journal and pens and my thoughts.
Did I hear God more this past year? I cried out to Him more but the quiet got lost in the pandemic.
I think I’ll turn my sewing room into a physical hiding place with God...
4/1/2021 — 1 Kings 19:12
“After the earthquake, there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. After the fire, there was a soft whisper.”
1 Kings 19:12 — New English Translation
I want to hear God’s voice. But He wants me to know His love. I fret because I don’t hear Him but God tells me it is more important to trust and relax in His love.
When someone speaks softly, quietly, in a whisper, the act of leaning in, sharing something only the two of us can hear, there is a sense of intimacy. And that’s what God wants! Intimacy with us!
God speaks in a whisper so that we will draw near to Him.
3/31/2021 — 1 Samuel 3:10
“Then the LORD came and stood and called as at the previous times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.””
1 Samuel 3:10 — Amplified Bible
A lot of my problem is I don’t listen to God. Or I don’t hear Him. Or I can’t discern His voice from the others around me.
Maybe I’m not giving myself enough quiet so that I can hear.
It is encouraging to note that God keeps on calling even when I don’t get it the first time.
3/30/2021 — John 20:16
““Mary!” Jesus said. She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”).”
John 20:16 — New Living Translation
Jesus is ready to surprise us. When I am at my saddest, there is someone who still can make me laugh or at least smile. At the very least I can still see something to be thankful for.
Jesus came to Mary, called her name and surprised her.
He can come to me and call “Tanya” and surprise me too.
3/29/2021 — Mark 15:38
“At that moment the veil in the Holy of Holies was torn in two from the top to the bottom.”
Mark 15:38 — The Passion Translation
At the cross Jesus removed the veil that kept us from the holiness of God. So why do I try to tack it up again.
“I’m a lousy Christian.”
“How can I be a herald of God’s love when there are so many people I can’t love.”
“I can’t even TALK with God today I’m so upset!”
The distance, the wall, the veil has been removed. God welcomes me hourly to step into His arms.
3/28/2021 — Mark 15:29
“Those passing by were hurling abuse at Him, shaking their heads and saying, “Ha! You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days,”
Mark 15:29 — New American Standard Bible
So... in our most heated arguments, some angry words were hurled. And they remain in the back of my head...
Jesus did not throw back insults when He was mocked. He also did not complain to God. Unlike me, who was firey as my adversary and ran to my friends to lick my wounds together. Sigh.
“Forgive them because they know not what they do.”
Okay. I’ve learned another lesson today. I only hope I can remember it when the next argument rolls around.
3/27/2021 — John 17:21
“Father, I pray they will be one, just as you are in me and I am in you. I want them also to be in us. Then the world will believe that you have sent me.”
John 17:21 — New International Reader’s Version
Jesus desires that we be connected with each other. And I already know that Satan is the great Divider. So when a wall or a wedge comes up between me and someone else, especially another family member in Christ, I know that we both are not aligned to God and that we are causing Him sadness.
I am waiting for God to work and I am gradually easing back into a trusting relationship.
3/26/2021 — Mark 14:35
“He went a little farther on, threw himself on the ground, and prayed that, if possible, he might not have to go through that time of suffering.”
Mark 14:35 — Good News Bible
Thinking of the coming of Easter...
I have the image of Jesus kneeling peacefully in the Garden of Gethsemane but that isn’t really how it was... Jesus was in despair about the future. He threw Himself to the ground and cried out to God. He asked God to remove the horror He faced.
And God didn’t do it. Not even for Jesus.
Because there is a plan.
I’ve been upset this week, about stupid things. And I’ve cried and complained and made a pest of myself to my friends... I’ve asked God to take me out of all this.
And God has a plan.
3/25/2021 — Galatians 6:9
“So we must not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9 — New English Translation
At first glance I thought,
“Oh good. I don’t need to wear myself trying to be good. I’m too tired to put in any effort.”
Aha! But the last part of that verse is “do not give up.”
Keep on keeping on.
Don’t throw in the trial.
There is a rainbow after the storm.
God makes all things work for my good.
3/24/2021 — John 12:47
“If you hear my words and refuse to follow them, I do not judge you. For I have not come to judge you but to save you.”
John 12:47 — The Passion Translation
I suppose this is a heartening word today for me. God commands me to be loving, forgiving, non-judgmental, at peace... and I just cannot do it. I’m just not going to obey today. I’m going to sit back and not think about what’s the “right” thing to do. I’m just too tired. Sorry Lord.
3/23/2021 — Matthew 7:5
“You pretender! First take the piece of wood out of your own eye. Then you will be able to see clearly to take the bit of sawdust out of your friend’s eye.”
Matthew 7:5 — New International Revised Version
Well, that’s pretty clear and that is exactly how I feel. A pretender. Pretending to be perfect, pretending to be a great wife, a great Christian, pretending to be happy.
Maybe it isn’t biblical but I’ve always repeated the “Fake it til you make it.” mantra. Trying to be positive by looking positive.
Seeing myself as I really am isn’t particularly motivating. It actually makes me think I should just give up.
3/22/2021 — Luke 6:12
“On one of those days, Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray. He spent the night praying to God.”
Luke 6:12 — New International Revised Version
It would be nice to go off today with my journal and a pencil and sit in some beautiful place and pray on paper.
My heart is heavy again. It is annoying how quickly my emotions jump back and forth.
Pouring out to friends is my first thought but they can not solve my frustration, only God.
Maybe I don’t see myself accurately. The vision in my mirror isn’t reflecting reality. Maybe I’m not the hurt party. God will have to straighten me out.
3/21/2021 — Ephesians 6:18
Pray passionately in the Spirit, as you constantly intercede with every form of prayer at all times. Pray the blessings of God upon all his believers.”
Ephesians 6:18 — The Passion Translation
“...With every form of prayer...”
Pray standing, pray kneeling, pray in a group, pray alone, pray with words, pray with music, pray with dancing, speak my prayers aloud, say them silently, write my prayers down, pray with joy, pray with tears, close my eyes, raise my hands on high. Pray in Jesus’ name.
3/20/2021 — Romans 8:26
“God's Spirit also helps us to do this. Because we are weak, we do not know how we ought to pray. But God's Spirit himself prays for us. He cries to God on our behalf in a way that nobody could say with words.”
Romans 8:26 — Easy English Bible
Prayer comes in many forms. When words aren’t enough, I have felt the power of music reaching to God as I immerse myself in sound.
I have heard the same can be said for art... for any creative act. God is a God who creates and our words, music, art respond to His heart.
3/19/2021 — Psalm 9:1
“I’m thanking you, GOD, from a full heart, I’m writing the book on your wonders.”
Psalm 9:1
The ARTS of prayer.
A — Adoration
R — Repentance
T — Thanksgiving
S — Supplication
My prayer needs all of the above. Adoration is easy to do, just start my prayer by praising God. But it gets to feeling rote... I’m not sure why.
I ask forgiveness all the time and it seems like everyday there is a new sin... and then they pile up. Is it right to wipe my former sin from my repentance list. The Bible says God has.
Thankful prayers are the easiest! There are so many things to be thankful for! My gratitude list is an important daily reflection.
And then getting to the heart of asking God... My hang up is that I always think “God already knows.”
3/18/2021 — Matthew 4:10
“Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’””
Matthew 4:10 — English Standard Version
If quoting Scripture to remove damaging thoughts is good enough for Jesus, it is good enough for me!
Yes, that will be my strategy! Read the Bible. Write down Scripture. Memorize it! Repeat it whenever my thoughts turn dark!
3/17/2021 — Colossians 3:2
“...Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.”
Colossians 3:2 — Message Bible
Getting rid of damaging thoughts is one step, filling my mind with things of God is another step, and it can be proactive! Look to God now and focus on Him so that the habit and the truths will already be in place when problems arise.
3/16/2021 — 2 Corinthians 10:5
“casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,”
2 Corinthians 10:5 — Modern English Version
I can see where a lot of my negative thoughts are just the products of my imagination. I make up a story in my head that is far worse than what actually is. I assume someone thinks something so maybe...
Almost always, I’ve spent my time letting my imagination think up the worse scenarios...
Instead, claim a promise, a verse of the Bible and repeat it over and over, taking captive any negativity!
3/15/2021 — Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Philippians 4:8 — English Standard Version
A verse to test my thoughts.
True: God’s Word is true, not my feelings.
Honorable and just: my thoughts reflect that I am a child of God.
Pure and lovely: think of beauty and calmness.
Commendable and excellent: God is good. He is excellence. There is nothing above or beyond Him.
Worthy of praise: The only thing worthy of praise is God Himself. Think of God.
3/14/2021 — Romans 12:2
“Do not become like the people who belong to this world. But let God completely change the way that you think, so that you live differently. Then you will understand what God wants you to do. You will know what is good. You will know what pleases God. You will know what is completely right.”
Romans 12:2 — Easy English Bible
It is easy for me to get caught in negative thoughts. Is it Corona? Or age? Loss of the forest? The adverse effects of Tetsu’s Home Owners Association ?
I want to be a positive person. I want God to renew my thoughts. I want to kick Satan out of my brain. I want to fill my life with goodness. I want to live to the fullest that God wants me to be.
I plan to write down (bullet journal!) more inspiring quotes and encouraging scriptures.
I want to be able to see where God has led me.
3/13/2021 — Isaiah 40:6
“You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings. Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand — you don’t require burnt offerings or sin offerings.”
Psalms 40:6 New Living Translation
I’m not sure this verse says this but I think we humans are too caught up in understanding things... it’s like if we understand why we are in a situation then it will be okay. When we don’t understand we cry “Why God?!” as if by knowing we’ll have peace.
God isn’t required to explain anything. We may never understand some things but we always “stand under” God’s love and protection. It should be enough.
3/12/2021 — Revelation 21:3
“I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.”
Revelation 21:3 — New Living Translation
Because I long for the perfect home of Eden, my future searches out God and longs to return to Him forever. From the beginning of the Bible to the end, God’s story is of love and being with us.
He will live with us and we will live with Him.
My word WITH for this year!
3/11/2021 — Genesis 1:31
“God looked over everything he had made; it was so good, so very good! It was evening, it was morning— Day Six.”
Genesis 1:31 — Message Bible
God made for His children a perfect world... and then we were sent out of it and since then we are always longing for that perfection.
Perfect relationships... perfect marriage... perfect finances... perfect health... perfect situations.
I can think of at least one concern in each of the categories I listed. Not one of them is perfect!
Maybe the good thing is that longing for perfection again points the way back to God. The assurance of eternal perfection makes the problems of this life livable and bearable.
3/10/2021 — 1 Corinthians 15:57
“But let us give thanks to God! He gives us the victory because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done.”
1 Corinthians 15:57 — New International Reader’s Version
All of my problems will be, already are, overcome by Jesus. I am still looking at the middle of the story and I won’t know how it ends until I’m in heaven... but I know the story has a happy ending (just not how it gets to that point).
I don’t know why it is so hard to remember this lesson each time another disappointment drops in my lap... God is for me. What is impossible for me, God says to not worry.
“Impossible, Tanya? I’M POSSIBLE!”
3/9/2021 — Ephesians 4:1
“I urge you, then — I who am a prisoner because I serve the Lord: live a life that measures up to the standard God set when he called you.”
Ephesians 4:1 — Good News Bible
Yep. I know. I want to do better... for my own happiness, for a louder testimony, just to please God.
I will continue staying in the Word, asking God to make the way clear to me and rebuking Satan when he gets in my mind.
Praise be to God. He is present in this process.
3/8/2021 — Luke 6:36
“Show mercy and compassion for others, just as your heavenly Father overflows with mercy and compassion for all.”
Luke 6:36 — The Passion Translation
Forgiveness, compassion, kindness, mercy, holiness. They are all related and used interchangeably in different Bible versions.
Forgiving someone doesn’t mean that my actions will change the other person’s actions. They may still be angry, they might still treat me coldly. My job is to see them as God sees them.
“(Forgiveness) is an intentional decision to treat them the same way that God, through Christ, has treated you.”
3/7/2021 — Psalms 51:4
“Against you – you above all – I have sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. So you are just when you confront me; you are right when you condemn me.”
Psalms 51:4 — New English Translation
It comes to me that in my blowup with Tetsu, my apology should be to God more than to Tetsu. (Well, Tetsu might not think so.) Losing my temper, saying hurtful words, sending us both into black moods and pulling us far from God, is a sin against God!
Pulling away from God... Satan is saying to me, (and Tetsu is thinking it)
“And you call yourself a Christian. Some ambassador from heaven YOU make! Where is the love, the peace, the FORGIVENESS you talk about? You’re a big phony!”
My only answer is,
“imagine what I would be if I WASN’T reading my Bible, praying to God, singing my praise songs!”
3/6/2021 — 2 Corinthians 7:10
“God designed us to feel remorse over sin in order to produce repentance that leads to victory. This leaves us with no regrets. But the sorrow of the world works death.”
2 Corinthians 7:10 — The Passion Translation
So today I’m feeling sadness over a major blowup with my husband. It is probably my sin of trying to control him and his sin of pride and
martyrdom. In any case, our blowup was not pretty and the lingering electricity remains.
Hopefully I am repenting today of my emotionalism and can get out of my high and mighty attitude. The promise is that this will lead to victory... in the meantime I’m left with sadness.
3/5/2021 — Jeremiah 31:3
“Before now, the Lord showed himself to us. He said, ‘I have loved you with a love that has no end. So I am showing my love to you so that you will move towards me.”
Jeremiah 31:3 — Easy English Bible
Believing that God loves me, that I am holy, that all things work for my good, I can step out boldly, not worrying about what people think or if my actions will be misunderstood... I should be living as if this day was the only day left to enjoy, this person the only one who matters, this deed the last one in my legacy.
God has me in His mind and I only need to step closer.
3/4/2021 — Genesis 3:5
“For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.””
Genesis 3:5 — New King James Version
Christians forget their identity, that they are holy, forgiven, saints of God. It is all part of Satan’s plans to fool us into being unsatisfied with what we already are...
Satan did the same thing in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve had been formed by God, had God’s breath breathed into them, and were made in God’s image, yet Eve (and Adam) forget and at Satan’s treachery went searching to be more “like God”. They already WERE like God!
Remember today that God made me the way I am and that in accepting Christ there is nothing more I need to do.
3/3/2021 — 1 Peter 2:9
“But God chose you to be his people. You are royal priests. You are a holy nation. You are God’s special treasure. You are all these things so that you can give him praise. God brought you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
1 Peter 2:9 — New International Reader’s Version
Being holy is not my destination or my goal. It is my identity. I am already holy. ...in God’s eyes, and I need to see it myself.
God’s holy creatures in heaven have the task of proclaiming God’s holiness day and night. My task is the same here on earth.
3/2/2021 — 2 Corinthians 5:17
“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
2 Corinthians 5:17 — New Living Translation
I believe this, that I am a new person in Christ, that I don’t have to be stuck in old moods and habits. I’m just not sure how to shake off the old attitudes... they have become comfortable.
Lord. You have given me a new day. Why do I stay with my old thoughts and reactions? Will prayer banish the remnants of old? Will tracking habits cause me to focus on change? Or is it only waiting for You to work in me? Give wisdom and guidance. In Jesus’ name. Amen
3/1/2021 — Psalms 24:1
“The earth belongs to the Lord. And so does everything in it. The world belongs to him. And so do all those who live in it.”
Psalm 24:1 — New International Reader’s Version
Generosity is not rational. Generosity is born in God in which all things belong. He gives to us from His bounty and we are to enjoy it and pass it along.
I get in a huff about the loss of MY forest but it was never mine to begin with. It was lent to me to enjoy and God saw fit to change the circumstances. He continues to give to me and I might notice if I just removed my “dark” glasses.
2/28/2021 — Matthew 6:21
“for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; that on which your life centers] will be also.”
Matthew 6:21 — Amplified Bible
I have this verse bright and bold on one of my word quilts. My treasure ( my family, my home, my animals) is where my heart is.
I THINK that is where my heart is or where I want it to be but I often don’t act that way... my goal, my resolution doesn’t always have a strategy.
My heart is right now wanting to have a strong prayer life but I still don’t have a strategy...
Pray more... well sure...
God I’m asking You to guide me in this.
1/27/2021 — Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to tenderly loving your fellow believers as members of one family. Try to outdo yourselves in respect and honor of one another.”
Romans 12:10 — The Passion Translation
Why do I think of myself as the center of the story? It is so selfish, so egotistic. I KNOW what the Scriptures say... to put others wishes before my own... but even when I DO manage to step back, it is not always with a pure heart.
Lord, give me JOY to serve others as a wonderful offering to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen
2/26/2021 — Proverbs 4:23
“Be careful how you think. Your thoughts make you the person that you are.”
Proverbs 4:23 — Easy English Bible
I’ve been considering my thoughts which are not always cheery. I find my attitude to be punctuated with a lot of sighing and a “who cares” outlook.
Then I think about my bullet journal, which I try to keep uplifting with Scripture and color, and my blog, which is hopefully upbeat. But is it all honest?
Life isn’t always perfect but I certainly don’t want to dwell in gloom. I’d rather paint a pleasant picture and attempt to live up to it than let negativity show and take root in my heart.
As I said to the kids at the crosswalk today.
“It’s Friday! Be happy!”
2/25/2021 — I Thessalonians 5:17
“be unceasing and persistent in prayer;”
1 Thessalonians 5:17 — Amplified Bible
God wants me to depend on Him. And each time I pray to Him I’m acknowledging my dependence upon Him. Conversely, if I go about my life never praying, then I am saying to God and others (and myself) that I am independent of God.
The purpose of prayer? Not results that I desire but the recognition to myself that I am dependent on God. For everything.
2/24/2021 — 1 John 2:15-17
“Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.”
1 John 2:15-17 — Message Bible
Another thought for Lent and my daily walk with God. What is my focus on? What gives me satisfaction away from Christ? I don’t mean to live a life of denial and austerity to prove my devotion, but I am grateful for this time to see what I may hold too close to my chest.
My creative heart? I spend a lot of time making and putting things down on paper. My health? I am always caught up in the diet or exercise of the season. My animals? Their comfort seems to take priority a lot of the time. My house? I blow a fuse when I feel encroached upon. (By the woodcutters.)
In perspective, God is my center and I must stay close to Him. Give up claim on all else.
2/23/2021 — Hosea 6:4, 7
““What am I to do with you, Tanya? What do I make of you....? Your declarations of love last no longer than morning mist and predawn dew... I’m after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know GOD, not go to more prayer meetings...”
Hosea 6:4, 7 — Message Bible
I can only hope that my desire to draw nearer to the will of God and the attempts to keep God’s Word uppermost in my mind will teach me to obey God more. He knows my weaknesses and He does not expect me to grow on my own.
Lead me on the way to be more loving. Teach me to trust You and show me how to be joyful in obedience to You. In Jesus name, Amen.
2/22/2021 — Matthew 6:16
“When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don’t make a production out of it.”
Matthew 6:16 — Message Bible
I’ve never thought much about fasting but in this season of Lent, it makes sense.
“...intentionally creating space in our lives to hear God by removing things that give us immediate satisfaction...” (You Version)
It doesn’t have to be food. It could be from TV. From the iPhone. From sewing. Gulp. Maybe food would be the easiest fast... but that would negate the whole practice!
Lent — Create space for God
2/21/2021 — Psalms 37:7
“Be still before the LORD; wait patiently for Him and entrust yourself to Him...”
Psalms 37:7 — Amplified Bible
I’m going to make excuses today. God calls us to go away and spend time with Him in peace... I picture a quiet cozy place with God’s beautiful world outside the window, sounds of birds or water adding to the calm.
Instead I sit in my chair in front of the TV, the living room being the only warm room in the house, and having my quiet time with God amidst commercials for aspirin, accident insurance and diapers. The daily news and gossip inundates the house. There is no quiet.
Honestly, maybe I don’t like quiet. I listen to music or audiobooks while I sew, even when I walk outdoors. How do I have a chance to hear God in all my noise?
No solution today, just seeing the habits that have evolved.
2/20/2021 — Proverbs 19:17
“He who is gracious and lends a hand to the poor lends to the LORD, And the LORD will repay him for his good deed.”
Proverbs 19:17 — Amplified Bible
Just as Jesus used two loaves and five fishes that were given to Him, He uses the small things that I give to Him also... what can I give? And actually to whom?
I’m skilled with my hands... I can give God my talent to...? Help a friend make a quilt? It seems like such a nothing, unimportant thing. What good is that going to do for the world except make for two of us having quilts? But I don’t have any great visions so I’ll be small and do the small things. God uses them.
2/19/2021 — Joshua 1:8
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”
Joshua 1:8 — New Living Translation
Meditation is a way to refocus and reconnect with God and His Word. I am not losing myself in auras and nothingness, I am mindfully considering each word of Scripture.
I am drawing nearer to God and turning my heart so that I can hear His message to me.
I am learning to see the world and the situations I am in from a holy perspective.
Pause in God’s presence and meditate.
2/18/2021 — Philippians 4:6
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.”
Philippians 4:6 — New Living Translation
Can I make prayer a more focal part of my life? I wonder why it doesn’t come easily for me when I spend so much time thinking about God in my life.
Is it because I know that God already KNOWS what I’m thinking and what I will say, so why bother?
I’ve thought about prayer journals or prayer lists in my bullet journals. I’ve tried writing out prayers or what I think are God’s words but that hasn’t worked so well.
Lord, I need a prayer system, a method, a BOOK or something to put me on the right path to being a prayer warrior. I desire this but haven’t figured out my way yet. Please give me an answer. In Jesus’ name. Amen
2/17/2021 — Matthew 4:11
“Then the devil left Jesus. Angels came and took care of him.”
Matthew 4:11 — New International Reader’s Version
Jesus was in the wilderness for 40 days and He was confronted with deviousness and evil, confusion and chaos. Jesus knew what was important and He knew how to resist Satan.
When I have doubts and Satan starts playing with my brain, (“What if...?” “How can God...?”) go back to the Scriptures and remember God’s promises and comfort. When all is done I will have angels caring for me. I probably have them caring for me now as I go through daily small battles.
2/16/2021 — Romans 5:20
“So then, the law was introduced into God’s plan to bring the reality of human sinfulness out of hiding. And yet, wherever sin increased, there was more than enough of God’s grace to triumph all the more!”
Romans 5:20 — The Passion Translation
When I think of what my husband must think of my “faith put into practice” I’m sure he’d be able to point at a lot of places where I’m lacking. I hide my sinfulness well except from him. All my impatience, grumbling, resentment, stubbornness etc. etc. ETC. comes to light. And heaven forbid, I’m getting worse in my old age! Gasp! My sins are increasing!
So this verse is so encouraging. Even as my sins increase, God’s grace increases even more. I can’t outdo God. He will always have more love and forgiveness and mercy than I have sins.
2/15/2021 — Proverbs 4:23
“Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts.”
Proverbs 4:23 — Good News Bible
We hear on the news about how contagious the COVID-19 virus is but I’ve been thinking that the news, the grumbling, the politics, the anger, the me-first... the attitudes around me are much more contagious.
I worry more about what might get into my body than I concern myself with what gets into my mind.
Today let’s keep a barrier of encouraging friends, comforting scripture, loving family and positive thoughts and protect ourselves from the virus of negativity.
2/14/2021 — Philippians 2:14
“Do everything without complaining or arguing.”
Philippians 2:14
Even though the sheltering-in-place life is inconvenient and lonely do I really have the right to complain? I have God and without Him I would be headed for eternal destruction.
Paul wrote this letter to the Philippians when he was in JAIL and even then, he was finding that there was more to be joyful about than I seem to with health, conveniences, family and finances. In perspective, I’m going to try and zip up my grumbling mouth and put on a smile instead.
2/13/2021 — Hebrews 12:2-3
“Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And he is the one who completes the journey of faith... ...So think about him. Then you won’t get tired. You won’t lose hope.”
Hebrews 12:2-3 — New International Reader’s Version
I am getting tired of doing the same routine every day. I’m getting tired of seeing the same face (my husband’s), and having the same conversations (“dinner is ready.”)
I’m tired of the dumb mask that is either too hot or slips down my face or gets damp with condensation. I’m tired of only seeing the same supermarket every three days. I’m losing any joy and interest that I had before Corona...
The Bible says in order to not lose hope and not get tired that I am to keep my eyes who Jesus who is in control of Corona, of my time on this earth, of my eternity with Him!
In Jesus name, I press on.
2/12/2021 — Psalms 96:1
“Go ahead—sing your new song to the Lord! Let everyone in every language sing him a new song.”
Psalms 96:1 — The Passion Translation
Jesus is known in every country in the world. People from all cultures sing praises to His name 24 hours a day!
I am honored to be part of this worldwide, history reaching chorus. Let my simple tune never stop adding to the harmony of God’s people.
2/11/2021 — Ephesians 1:11
“Through our union with Christ we too have been claimed by God as his own inheritance. Before we were even born, he gave us our destiny; that we would fulfill the plan of God who always accomplishes every purpose and plan in his heart.”
Ephesians 1:11 — The Passion Translation
God has a plan for this world and he doesn’t have to tell anyone what it is. He is God!
His plan is set to His time schedule and is never too late or too early. He is God!
He chose me to work in a tiny part of His plan whether I feel qualified or not. He is God!
God’s plan is ALWAYS successful. He is God!
2/10/2021 — Ephesians 6:12
“We are not fighting against human enemies. Instead, we are fighting against the rulers and the powerful spirits that have authority over this dark world. We are fighting against the bad spirits who live in the heavens.”
Ephesians 6:12 — Easy English Bible
I spent some time this morning listening to an acquaintance rant about her relationship problems. She is angry with everyone and has a fight to pick with people alive and already passed on...
I think my acquaintance is not really fighting humans but an attitude that has taken her heart... She is in a dark place of frustration and distrust. No light of goodness dispels her anger...
My fight is not with the people who frustrate me... it is with the spirit that instills the frustration... Put the Holy Spirit in its place.
2/9/2021 — Acts 7:51
““You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That’s what your ancestors did, and so do you!”
Acts of the Apostles 7:51 — New Living Translation
The Bible talks about opposing the Holy Spirit, resisting the Holy Spirit and grieving the Holy Spirit.
I’m hopefully not openly opposing the Holy Spirit but I guilty of resisting and I’m ashamed to think how often I grieve Him. And yet, I keep on with my ways and sometimes suffer a lack peace, joy, love, patience, kindness goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. And those are the FRUITS of the Spirit!
So if I notice I’m slipping in these areas I know I need to go to God and pray and ask to be brought back into a spiritual relationship.
2/8/2021 — Psalms 94:19
“When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your comfort delights my soul.”
Psalms 94:19 — New American Standard Bible
Bullet Journaling or Bible Journaling or whatever it is that I do daily, really does comfort my soul. Writing God’s promises out every day, recording my thoughts at the time is a contemplative process. Drawing God’s Word in large print with many colors pulls my eyes to forgotten scripture and I feel that God is reaffirming directly to me.
2/7/2021 — Philippians 2:14
“Do everything without murmuring or questioning [the providence of God],”
Philippians 2:14 — Amplified Bible
Yesterday I had my rant about the loss of the forest and the changes that I don’t like. Today I’m going to focus of the good things that are left to me! Changes are not bad! Something good can always come out of a questionable situation!
SMILE!
2/6/2021 — Matthew 5:16
“You must be sure that your light shines well. Then you will give light to other people. They will see all the good things that you do. Then they will praise God, who is your Father in heaven.’”
Matthew 5:16 — Easy English Bible
I have a light, that was lit by God. The reason it shines is that it is fueled by God. So to insure that it shines well I must refuel it daily by going to God in prayer. Once I am shining I just need to keep God’s light above me, lighting my way and showing others where I am and what God is doing in my life. It is up to God to bring them to Himself.
2/5/2021 — Philippians 2:13
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”
Philippians 2:13 — New Living Translation
Now this is good news! Not only will God give me the power, He gives me the desire! So I know if I’m wanting to do something, then it comes from God. And if the desire is from God then the ability will come from God too. That really takes off the pressure!
Right now I WANT to get my prayer life in order (that desire is from God, right?) and He will direct me to the very best way... lists? Journal? A power spot?
My desire pleases God and He will cause me to do His will.
2/4/2021 — 1 Corinthians 10:4
“The weapons we use in our fight are not the world's weapons but God's powerful weapons, which we use to destroy strongholds...”
2 Corinthians 10:4 — Good News Bible
Whatever trial, problem, disaster that Satan is using against us, God’s weapons are stronger!
I am not fighting alone. God is WITH me and my power switch is PRAYER!
Praying is my unending source of authority over the evil in this world.
2/3/2021 — 1 Corinthians 12:5
“We serve the Lord in different ways, but all of us serve the same Lord.”
1 Corinthians 12:5 — Easy English Bible
I have gifts different from other believers who serve the Lord. I understand that. But I do get stressed with non-believers who have different values than I do.
But wait... aren’t they serving the Lord also...? Even if they don’t know it? God can use everyone and He allows them to go about their lives and He controls the situations that we are all in.
I think I need to be less prone to take offense with others. Stop comparing. God is using their lives too.
2/2/2021 — 2 Timothy1:6
“This is why I remind you to help God’s gift grow, just as a small spark grows into a fire. God put his gift in you ...”
2 Timothy 1:6 — New International Revised Version
I remember going through the exercise when reading Purpose Driven Life, of finding the gifts God gave me. I think I came up with, being good with my hands, having a love of animals, seeing both sides of a situation.
But how do I fan those gifts into a flame?
There are so many verses in the Bible that I enthusiastically say, “yes”, but applying them stumps me...
It seems like I just appreciate my gifts and go on with my everyday life... which includes doing handwork, loving my pets, and being rather non-passionate about anything at all...
2/1/2021 — Luke 2:49
“Jesus answered them, ‘You should not really have had to look for me. I must be doing what my Father wants me to do. Really, you should have known that.’”
Luke 2:49 — Easy English Bible
Jesus was what... twelve when He said these words? I’m still futsing around at 65 trying to align my activities and attitude to God’s plans and purposes.
It should be very easy. I must be doing what God wants me to do.
Get my mission from God every morning and step out to do it!
1/31/2021 — Ephesians 5:16
“Many bad things are happening in these days. So, whenever you have a chance to do something good, do as much as you can.”
Ephesians 5:16 — Easy English Bible
I read on a Reddit thread
that a quilter had finally finished a late Christmas present quilt for her grandparents. Her question/joke was, should she give it to them late or keep it for 11 months to mark off NEXT Christmas’ present?
My thought was,
“Wait? During COVID? Her grandparents? Do it now lady! Who knows who’s going to be around next Christmas!”
Our time is not guaranteed. Our precious gift of time has to be used mindfully, for and with others.
1/30/2021 — 1 Chronicles 16:9
“Sing to Him, sing praise to Him, recount all His wonders.”
1 Chronicles 16:9 — Modern English Bible
I don’t feel much like singing today... stuck in the house, outside the woodcutters are cutting down another forest.
I’ve got a lousy voice and can’t keep a rhythm. I like praise music a lot but for the life of me I can’t get into classical (and with all my classical music friends I keep a low profile!)
For all that, I really do see music as a way of prayer... whether people know it or not, they are pouring out their hearts and souls in music!
So if I’m going to put music into my life today I guess I’ll go turn on some praise music and saturate myself!
1/29/2021 — Psalms 94:19
“When I worried about many things, your assuring words soothed my soul.”
Psalms 94:19 — God’s Word
The bottom line for me is that I am human and I am going to worry. That may be just how God made me, but HE made me and understands. It is not my sin to have worried but I must make my first response to go to God and God’s Word.
Seeking out God’s promises and comforting Scripture in the midst of problems is not denying the problems, it is the response of a child loving and trusting her Heavenly Father.
1/28/2021 — Psalms 139:3-4
“You see me when I go out, and you see me when I stay at home. You know everything that I do! Yes Lord, before I open my mouth to speak,
you know what I will say.”
Psalms 139:3-4 — EASY
English Bible
I was feeling grumpy and bored and thinking that everything is a waste of time and all the days just blend into one another. COVID stay-at-home blues?
And then I came across this verse in this Bible version... “You see me when I stay at home...”
God is WITH me at home just as He is WITH me at church or in His majestic nature. And He knows how I feel about being cooped up. He understands my dissatisfaction.
How glad I am that God knows me and draws me close! My stuffy house is as much a temple to Him as any cathedral!
1/27/2021 — Psalms 119:52
“Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth!”
Psalms 119:52 — The Passion Translation
When I look at my faith I am embarrassed at how it stands and fluctuates. It goes from praise to complaint, from comfort to fear. I have sobbed on a friend’s shoulder on one day and spoken learned words of wisdom to another friend on another day.
God knows and loves ALL SIDES OF ME! He doesn’t expect me to be strong all the time and He sees my past self and my future self in His time frame. I will go to God’s unchanging Word for encouragement at each of my ever changing emotions.
1/26/2021 — 1 Samuel 17:45
“Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel...”
1 Samuel 17:45 — Amplified Bible
When the pandemic seems to overtaking us and there seems like sheltering down is not enough, I remember that I am not fighting a virus... God is fighting it! He stands at the front of every battle, He stretches out His arms to protect me.
My weapons are prayer, worship and praise. Besides that it is just trusting God and knowing He is in command.
1/25/2021 — Psalms 24:3
“Wise people are builders— they build families, businesses, communities. And through intelligence and insight their enterprises are established and endure.”
Proverbs 24:3 — The Passion Translation
This proverb made me think about how I hope I have built my home on God’s wisdom. And since the US administration change, the way I want the world built too.
We must be open to God’s guidance. His will will be done anyway, in our families and in our world, so allowing Him to teach us and use us will make our lives so much easier.
1/24/2021 — Psalms 71:20
“You, who have shown us many and bitter troubles, you will let me live. You will bring us up again from the depths of the earth.”
Psalms 71:20 — World English Bible
In some translations this verse starts with, “You have sent troubles upon us...”. Well, God HAS let us be in this COVID situation, but I prefer to think that He is letting us live in these times to teach us and show us.
He is teaching us to rely on Him, to value the small things of life, to teach us that we need to work together... we can’t get through this pandemic without medical, political, individual cooperation.
He is showing us that we can change our habits and lifestyles, that the future lies with the wisdom of the next generation.
And God has promised to bring us up from the hardships after we have learned the lessons.
1/23/2021 — Psalms 42:7
“My deep need calls out to the deep kindness of your love. Your waterfall of weeping sent waves of sorrow over my soul, carrying me away, cascading over me like a thundering cataract.”
Psalms 42:7 — The Passion Translation
Even though Jesus tells us to worry about nothing, He knows humans worry. God gave me emotions and the situations of my life cause worry and fear.
I think God is saying that the response to natural worry is to call on God to reach down and lift me back up. When life is overwhelming, it is still a life that God has given me and a life with God in it.
God sees, God understands, God saves, God restores.
1/22/2021 — Psalms 16:7
“The way you counsel and correct me makes me praise you more, for your whispers in the night give me wisdom, showing me what to do next.”
Psalms 16:7 — The Passion Translation
I’m a pretty good sleeper but occasionally I do find myself waking up in the middle of the night.
Last night I woke up with the melody of a gospel song running through my brain and I was comfortable thinking that my heart was pressing towards God even as I sleep.
Does God speak to me in my dreams? He does, molding my heart and my ideas closer to Him. Guiding my days before they have even begun.
I can sleep peacefully because I know He never does.
1/21/2021 — Psalms 42:8
“May the LORD show his constant love during the day, so that I may have a song at night, a prayer to the God of my life.”
Psalms 42:8 — Good News Bible
The Psalms are actually prayers set to music. Prayers of hope, prayers asking for protection, prayers praising and worshiping God.
The hymns we sing, the gospel music that impels me to raise my hands heavenward, these are my prayers to God also.
In my evening journaling I am glad to write of God’s guidance during each day and then enter a time of sleep with a prayer in my heart.
1/20/2021 — Psalms 23:4
“Lord, even when your path takes me through the valley of deepest darkness, fear will never conquer me, for you already have! You remain close to me and lead me through it all the way. Your authority is my strength and my peace. The comfort of your love takes away my fear. I’ll never be lonely, for you are near.”
Psalms 23:4 — The Passion Translation
We are walking through the valley of the shadow of Covid death with the numbers rising daily. Are we at the bottom of the valley? Fear makes me hesitant about the next steps in my life but I’m praying that it will not conquer me!
Comfort means that God is close to me. I can be afraid but even with my eyes closed, God is leading me.
I accuse myself of hiding my head in the sand thinking that things will work out... and they will! Covid is changing the world but God’s goodness and love never changes! I am with Him, now and forever.
1/19/2021 — James 1:3
“Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace].”
James 1:3 — Amplified Bible
God has a lesson for me to learn. He is a God of reason and organization. In His plan I must stand firm and wait because someday I will understand and with the rest of the world we will recognize His purposes and praise His glory.
This time of sheltering down and Covid consciousness is building my spiritual stamina for the work God has for me ahead.
1/18/2021 — Philippians 3:14
“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:14 — New King James Version
Take one day at a time. Don’t worry about tomorrow. Look up. Stay positive. My goal is upwards so keep my heart, my posture, my eyes on the sights above.
When the valley is deep
When the mountain is steep
When the body is broken
When we stumble and fall
When the choices are hard
When we’re battered and scarred
When we’ve spent our resources
When we’ve given our all
In Jesus’ name we press on
In Jesus’ name we press on
Dear Lord, with the prize
Clear before our eyes
In Jesus’ name we press on
1/17/2021 — Jeremiah 29:12
“Then you will ask for my help. And you will come and you will pray to me. And I will listen to you.”
Jeremiah 29:12 — Easy English
If I want my faith to be stronger then I have to pray more... the two things go together.
All these basics. Read God’s Word. Go to God. Trust.
I really need to set up a prayer book or page or something. It hasn’t worked well for me in the past (a list of names that gets longer and longer). But I really would like to be a prayer warrior!
1/16/2021 — Romans 15:4
“Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.”
Romans 15:4 — New Living Translation
The Bible is here for me because God knew that I would need it. He has brought past believers through the storms of life and He has inspired them to write His encouragement for ME to read now when I go through my own storms.
I wait for the fulfillment of peace and eternal life and I daily draw hope and courage from the Word written just for me.
1/15/2021 — Isaiah 40:31
“But those who trust in the LORD for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak.”
Isaiah 40:31 — Good News Bible
I get to thinking, “I don’t think I will be able to stand firm if the pandemic situation becomes worse. If something happens to my family I will fall apart.”
I cling to this Word of God that I will “find my strength renewed.” I don’t have to be building up spiritual muscles (though it won’t hurt) and instead, that God will do the renewing, that I will be surprised at the strength that is there when I need it. God is a faithful God. My trust is that He will supply what is needed.
1/14/2021 — Isaiah 41:10
Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.
Isaiah 41:10 — Message Bible
I read something interesting about Japanese. The word CRISIS in Japanese is, kiki, 危機. The first character means, danger. The second character is used in the word, opportunity, kikai, 機会.
We are living in a danger period... but might this not also be a time of opportunity? The opportunity to become closer to God, the opportunity to be bright beacons when all else is dark, the opportunity to help others even when the natural response is to hide...
Lord, give me wisdom to know when to step out to serve and when to shelter down. Keep me positive so that I can spread Your light. Today and through everything, may I always seek You first. In Jesus’ name, Amen
1/13/2021 — Romans 15:13
“Now may God, the inspiration and fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with his super-abundance until you radiate with hope!”
Romans 15:13 — The Passion Translation
I may have bouts of hopelessness BUT GOD IS NEVER HOPELESS!!! He is the fountain, the source of hope. Pause and pray when you feel hope seeping away.
Tanya, fill yourself WITH joy and peace the comes with God’s eternal fountain of hope. And from there, let that hope overflow from you also, ask God to make you a conduit of His hope.
1/12/2021 — Mark 6:30
...“Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.”
Mark 6:30 — Message Bible
Instead of thinking about sheltering down and quarantine as limitations, use this time to change my attitude. Consider the informal lockdown as a quiet time... a time to reflect, to be un-busy, to develop a prayer life and to learn more about God.
Restrictions can be blessings.
1/11/2021 — Ezekiel 37:14
“I will place my breath in you and you will live; I will give you rest in your own land. Then you will know that I am the LORD – I have spoken and I will act, declares the LORD.’””
Ezekiel 37:14 — New English Translation
Such comfort. Such joy.
While the world fears the airborne transmission of the Covid virus and we filter the breaths we take, God offers to breathe life into our spirits. Jesus breathed on His followers and gave them the Holy Spirit. (John 20:22.)
Exhale fear. Breathe in God’s love and peace.
All scripture is breathed on by God and we inhale God’s pure life with ever breath we take when our hearts are immersed in God’s Word.
Lord, be today with those people on ventilators struggling to breathe because of Covid. Strengthen the hospital workers who put their own lives in danger to bring patients back to health.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
1/10/2021 — Luke 8:45
““Who touched me?” Jesus asked. Everyone denied it, and Peter said, “Master, this whole crowd is pressing up against you.””
Luke 8:45 — New Living Translation
Jesus did not let the woman leave with an impersonal encounter. He looked into her eyes and spoke to her and listened to her.
God wants us to go beyond a nod to Him. The woman, by the day’s standards was considered unclean but Jesus didn’t shun her. Because of Covid, we distance ourselves and avoid touching too but Jesus has never avoided the unclean and calls us to Him.
God also expects us to show the same personal interest in the people in our lives. Connect even if it is only through email, and FaceTime.
1/9/2021 — Psalms 43:1-2
...”Do not be afraid — I will save you. I have called you by name — you are mine. When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you; your troubles will not overwhelm you...”
Isaiah 43:1-2 — Good News Bible
God says not to fear.
Even when there are so many things around us to fear. Our daily conversations begin with how many COVID cases have been counted in our prefecture... we cried in uncertainty when Takumi was sick last month... our thoughts drift to what will happen if either or both of us will succumb... fear is creeping in!
But God says not to fear... that love casts out fear! So maybe my only job today is to love and love and love some more!
1/8/2021 — James 1:12
“Blessed is the person who keeps on going when times are hard. After they have come through hard times, this person will receive a crown. The crown is life itself. The Lord has promised it to those who love him.”
James 1:12 — New International Reader’s Version
Stay with it. Continue to pray. Believe in belief. God has taken care of me all these years and He will continue in the future also.
Things are not rosy but God says He BLESSES us when times are hard. There is always an end to trouble and God has given me the promise of a joyful eternity if I am honest with Him and if I wait for His answers.
1/7/2021 — 1 Corinthians 3:11
“For God has already placed Jesus Christ as the one and only foundation, and no other foundation can be laid.”
1 Corinthians 3:11 — Good News Bible
God has laid Jesus as the foundation of the world and all the earth will recognize Him someday.
I have laid Jesus as the foundation of my life and therefore all that I see and do is built in that faith. The typhoons of life may shake me and even blow me down but I know my foundation is always there for me to build again.
1/6/2021 — Psalms 62:6
“For he alone is my safe place. His wrap-around presence always protects me as my champion defender. There’s no risk of failure with God! So why would I let worry paralyze me, even when troubles multiply around me?”
Psalms 62:6 — The Passion Translation
I have been reading Habakkuk and have been inspired by his faith. I read that the name Habakkuk means “to wrestle, to embrace”.
In my wrestling with God over how He guides me in my life, I realize He is embracing me also. I am fearful of the ways He takes me but He holds me tight as He tugs me along.
“Why worry?” my faith mind says, but it seems to be my default mode... God is holding me in my struggle.
1/5/2021 — Habakkuk 3:19
“The sovereign LORD is my source of strength. He gives me the agility of a deer; he enables me to negotiate the rugged terrain.
Habakkuk 3:19 — New English Translation
God supplies when I need. I look at myself and think, “I will never be able to do that. I will never be able to bear that. I will never be able to overcome that.”
I may not be able to now but God gives the ability to pass over and through hard places. Trust that He will chose the path and give me the strength.
1/4/2021 — Habakkuk 3:18
“Yet I will [choose to] rejoice in the LORD; I will [choose to] shout in exultation in the [victorious] God of my salvation!”
Habakkuk 3:18 — Amplified Bible
Yet.
I can chose to have faith even when God isn’t answering my prayers the way I want. It is not hiding my head in the sand. My faith is not based on the assurance that God will grant my wishes but that God is at work doing good.
Though the world is falling apart yet our God, our good and loving God, is in center of it all.
1/3/2021 — Habakkuk 3:2
“I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.”
Habakkuk 3:2 — New Living Translation
Am I alive? Yes. Alive and content. Do I have any needs unmet? I can’t think of anything. God has given me so many luxuries in this difficult world. I have health, income, a warm house, fantastic friends, a most wonderful family, sweet pets. I have many interests and many conveniences. AND IT IS ALL GOD’S BLESSINGS!!!
Remember! I’ve cried out to God before, doubting His love, doubting His choice to bless us. BUT HASN’T HE ALWAYS COME THROUGH?!
I almost lost Takumi before he was born, but God blessed us and here he has always been! Trust God again!!!
1/2/2021 — Matthew 19:26
“Jesus looked at them and said, “With people, this is impossible. But with God, all things are possible.””
Matthew 19:26 — New International Reader’s Version
There are things I cannot change... I find that there are a lot of things I can’t change, not even my own mind and thoughts.
Humans are not conquering this pandemic. But God will. My thoughts are scattered and out of control. But God will calm them and shore me up.
With God all things are possible.
Word of the year: WITH
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is WITH you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
My word of the year is an odd one... WITH can go so many ways... Living WITH God. Living WITH COVID. Also learning to live WITH family when we are so obviously not WITH but separated. I figure I can find WITH inspiration daily, in the Bible, in my daily life.
I’m committed to living my life this year WITH faith!
1/1/2021 — Hebrews 11:13 — The Passion Translation
“These heroes all died still clinging to their faith, not even receiving all that had been promised them. But they saw beyond the horizon the fulfillment of their promises and gladly embraced it from afar. They all lived their lives on earth as those who belonged to another realm.”
Hebrews 11:13
Why does this verse make me tear up? Because I don’t want to know that I won’t see God’s promises to me? Because I don’t want to let go of this earth?
If God doesn’t answer my prayers like I want, He still has answered.
If I don’t see God’s promises in my lifetime, I will see them from heaven's side.
I recently stumbled over a YouTube site with wonderful hymns sung in 4 parts a cappella by 1 man! You would search for Acapelridge on YouTube...there are dozens of hymns to listen to, many of which have the lyrics on screen or in the description section.
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