Gift -- "And now at last they know that everything I have is a gift from you..." John 17:7
12/31/2020 — James 5:8
“You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord's coming is near.”
James 5:8 — Good News Translation
How impatient we humans are! I cannot wait an hour without getting antsy and irritated. I remember the Bible saints who waited years for God’s promises to come true and I am ready to thrown in the towel after a few days!!! How foolish!
God is developing me in this season of waiting. Stay full of hope!
12/30/2020 — Habakkuk 2:2-3
“The Lord gave me this answer: “Write down clearly on tablets what I reveal to you, so that it can be read at a glance. Put it in writing, because it is not yet time for it to come true. But the time is coming quickly, and what I show you will come true. It may seem slow in coming, but wait for it; it will certainly take place, and it will not be delayed.”
Habakkuk 2:2-3 — Good News Translation
I have stated my plea... I am on lookout for God’s reply... and now God says to record it... which I’m sort of doing.
Do I hear God’s voice? What is He saying to me? What do I need to record so that I can look back and see that He was in the center of chaos?
12/29/2020 — Habakkuk 2:1
“I will go up to the lookout tower. I’ll station myself on the city wall. I’ll wait to see how the Lord will reply to me. Then I’ll try to figure out how his reply answers what I’ve complained about.”
Habakkuk 2:1 — New International Reader’s Version
It’s amazing how easily my confidence in God can crumble... I’m worried and I don’t want to read promises or hear messages of hope and cheer. Only God is not surprised at my weakness.
I keep doing all the talking and pleading but am I listening? Watching? Waiting? And if I’m not then how can I hear God’s reply?
I hate being a fair-weather Christian. Why aren’t all the lessons I’ve learned over my life of faith upholding me now?
I continue praying for Takumi’s healing and for my own peace.
12/28/2020 — Habakkuk 1:2
“Lord, how long do I have to call out for help? Why don’t you listen to me? How long must I keep telling you that things are terrible? Why don’t you save us?”
Habakkuk 1:2 — New International Reader’s Version
Things are not exactly “terrible”. I have a new grand baby and Tony keeps close watch on Leiya and Luka.
But Takumi is still not good though Julieta is doing a fantastic job of caring for him, loving him, demanding medical care for him.
I cry occasionally because tests are not good... and plead with God to heal him and restore him. I cling to a faith that now seems wispy and insubstantial.
12/27/2020 — John 1:39
“Jesus answered, “Come and discover for yourselves.” So they went with him and saw where he was staying, and since it was late in the afternoon, they spent the rest of the day with Jesus.”
John 1:39 — The Passion Translation
Jesus invites ME to spend time with Him. To learn from Him.
What does this mean for me now?
Right now I need to remember God’s promises. That means reading His love letter, maybe noting each promise I find anew. It means finding things to be grateful for. It means saturating myself in praise.
12/26/2020 — Psalms 18:28
“O Lord, you give me light; you dispel my
darkness.”
Psalm 18:28 — Good News Translation
I’m falling into darkness and keep repeating “Satan, get out of my thoughts.”
Takumi is still not good and with California’s medical system collapsing, Julieta says they are being pushed aside with no answers.
My heart wrenches. I claim to holding tight to God’s hand but spend most of my time warding off despairing thoughts. Where is my faith?
I repeat the promises of God... I grasp what I know are truths.
12/25/2020 — Acts 2:25
...”I continually see the Lord in front of me. He’s at my right hand, and I am never shaken.”
Acts 2:25 — The Passion Translation
I am claiming this verse today but actually not living it well. My emotions are being shaken hour by hour.
Leiya had her baby yesterday and we are rejoicing! Tears of happiness and gratitude!
Hours later we hear that Takumi is sick and had to be taken to urgent care... we are waiting for updates on that situation.
Lord, why this joy and this fear on the same day... or any day... or in any life? It is hard enough to keep You in sight when the road is flat.
I read of Your promises to be with me but I need the promise that You are with my children too... in their joy, in their pain, in their devotion to You and in their independence.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
12/24/2020 — 2 Corinthians 3:5
“In ourselves we are not able to claim anything for ourselves. The power to do what we do comes from God.”
2 Corinthians 3:5 — New International Reader’s Version
All that I am and all that I will be, all that I do comes from the power of God. He is at the start of all I begin and in the center of every attempt. Reach for God, not for accomplishments.
12/23/2020 — John 8:25
“So they asked him plainly, “Who are you?” “I am the One I’ve always claimed to be.” Jesus replied.”
John 8:25 — The Passion Translation
Jesus never changed from his pure sinless self as a baby in Bethlehem to the cross on Golgotha. He came on that first Christmas for us and we were in His mind as He carried the cross.
Jesus was asked, “Who are you?” and He knew His answer.
The same question I pose to myself. “Who are you?” Don’t focus on doing but rather focus on being...
12/22/2020 — 2 Corinthians 1:20-22
“God has made a great many promises. They are all “Yes” because of what Christ has done. So through Christ we say “Amen.” We want God to receive glory. He makes both us and you remain strong in the faith because we belong to Christ. He anointed us. He put his Spirit in our hearts and marked us as his own. We can now be sure that he will give us everything he promised us.”
2 Corinthians 1:20-22 — New International Reader’s Version
We give God the gifts of faith and worship. God gives us the gifts of Jesus Christ, His Word and the Holy Spirit.
Jesus is the promise of eternal life and eternal forgiveness. God’s Word is the promise of daily revelation and strength. The Holy Spirit is the promise of God within us, Divine guidance, help and comfort. The Spirit in us is also the mark of being God’s children.
At this Christmas season remember all of God’s gifts!
12/21/2020 — John 4:23
“But the time is coming and is already here, when by the power of God's Spirit people will worship the Father as he really is, offering him the true worship that he wants.”
John 4:23 — Good News Bible
Christmas is Jesus’ birthday party yet we buy ourselves presents, eat satisfying feasts, concentrate on feeling happy. Where are the gifts we need to bring to God?
Faith and worship. These are the gifts that God wants.
Bring to the Savior of the world the gifts He deserves.
12/20/2020 — Isaiah 35:10
“Those the Lord has saved will return to their land. They will sing as they enter the city of Zion. Joy that lasts forever will be like beautiful crowns on their heads. They will be filled with gladness and joy. Sorrow and sighing will be gone.”
Isaiah 35:10 — New International Reader’s Version
I’m not sure right now if this verse is inspiring or wistful.
It is hard to see us joyful forever when things look dark and ominous. I know we will enter HEAVEN with singing and everlasting joy but for right now my joy comes and goes. It flickers like the cold night stars.
Joy... sorrow... hope... sigh... gladness... worry... faith... faith... faith.
12/19/2020 — Matthew 2:1-2
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who is born King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east, and have come to worship him.””
Matthew 2:1-2 — World English Bible
Isn’t it interesting that the Wisemen were from the East, not Jews, probably astrologers and mystics yet they recognized Jesus as the king and came to worship Him? Yet the Jews didn’t realize their king had been born for them!
I hope that I’m not so involved with religious customs and busyness that I don’t see the simple fact that Jesus was born for me. God spent 33 years of Jesus’ life preparing his sacrifice for ME. And the rest of history has been prepared for me also...
12/18/2020 — Luke 5:10
“I tell you, it is the same in heaven. There is joy in heaven over one sinner who turns away from sin.””
Luke 15:10 — New International Reader’s Version
Christmas is the season of JOY! There is JOY at Jesus coming into this world. There is JOY in our celebration and recognition of our new lives with Him. There is JOY when one person turns his back on his old life and chooses God’s purpose to be his own.
Don’t fold away JOY with the Christmas decorations. Celebrate it daily!
12/17/2020 — Psalms 103:14
“For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust.”
Psalms 103:14 — New Living Translation
With all the blessings that God has given me, that I’m supposed to use for others, I struggle with always being grateful, with practicing generosity, with being kind.
I can resolve to be intentionally loving and I can ask God to raise up these characteristics in my heart, but today I repent and am thankful that God knows me inside and out... and still considers me precious.
12/16/2020 — Lamentations 3:22-23
“The LORD 's unfailing love and mercy still continue, Fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 — Good News Bible
I wish I could wake up every morning with the verse running through my head. Every new day brings new blessings and God’s presence! Look around me! See the love! Respond with praise!
12/15/2020 — Romans 11:35
““Has anyone ever given anything to God, so that God has to pay them back?” ( Job 41:11 )”
Romans 11:35 — New International Readers Version
I’m embarrassed to think of how often I try to bargain with God. “I’ll do such-and-such if You’ll promise me this.” Or “if You give me what I’m asking for, I’ll do such-and-such.”
I am not in any position to tell God, to expect to be let in on His plans, to “deserve” (I hate that word) anything from Him. All I can do is receive my free gift and thank Him.
12/14/2020 — Ephesians 3:16
“I pray that God will cause you to be strong in your spirits. God has great and valuable things in heaven to help you. I pray that God's Spirit will help you with God's own power.”
Ephesians 3:16 — Easy English Bible
I have been considering, among many others) the word CAUSE as a word of the year... God does not (only) help us but instead CAUSES us to do, to experience, to be.
As our present lives pass through this pandemic, it is comforting to know that when needed, God will cause us to have strength and peace.
12/13/2020 — Romans 12:12
“Let this hope burst forth within you, releasing a continual joy. Don’t give up in a time of trouble, but commune with God at all times.”
Romans 12:12 — The Passion Translation
“Now we can join them in the line of believers who waited patiently for the Lord with joy as his perfect peace continues to unfold on this side of eternity.”
As the days grow closer to the end of the year, things are uncertain and it is hard to keep peace in my heart.
But the Bible says not to give up! Commit myself to prayer and staying close to God! The days may be cloudy but the Son is still with me!!
12/12/2020 — Psalms 16:6
“I am very pleased with what you have given me. I am very happy with what I’ve received from you.”
Psalm 16:6 — New International Revised Version
I recognize the bigger things in my life that I am grateful for... health, family, an income, but the little things go by me... a pretty dried leaf, a “just-right” pillow, reading glasses!
Look for the little things in my life to thank God for today. He is in the small as well as the great.
12/11/2020 — Luke 2:25
“In Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. He was a good and godly man. He was waiting for God’s promise to Israel to come true. The Holy Spirit was with him.”
Luke 2:25 — New International Revised Version
Simeon and Anna. Known in this Bible story for their devout faith and their advanced age.
God rewarded these two children of His. Think how long they waited! They prayed, they waited and they trusted.
I find it hard to wait hours. Now I’m in the last days of waiting for a new life to enter my family. I pray for the baby’s health, for his parents wisdom and judgement in raising him. I wait for the day I can join them physically in all their joy. Simeon and Anna waited most of their lives!!! And their secret was staying close to God through all those years.
12/10/2020 — James 5:15
“The prayer offered by those who have faith will make the sick person well. The Lord will heal them. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”
James 5:15 — New International Revised Version
What more reason is there to pray!
Thankfully, right now there is no one that I know who is sick with Corona. I wonder about the next few months without being defeatist and negative... the “what ifs” creep in however...
God says a prayer in faith will heal the sick so I’d better get ready to pray!!! (As if I’m not already).
I need to post this verse so I will have something to cling to as we pray through the next few months.
12/9/2020 — Genesis 22:14
“So Abraham named that place The Lord Will Provide. To this day people say, “It will be provided on the mountain of the Lord.””
Genesis 22:14 — New International Revised Version
God can and will provide! I have to ask, I have to wait, I have to trust. I don’t have to know why or how.
12/8/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:25
“Brothers and sisters, pray for us.”
1 Thessalonians 5:25 — New American Standard Bible
While my friends and family may not ask for prayer, my act of love for them is interceding for them and blessing them.
Lord, be with each of my children again today as they go about their day. Keep Satan away, uproot any danger lurking near. Turn all their hearts towards You. In Jesus’ name, Amen
12/7/2020 — 2 Chronicles 18:4
“Then Jehoshaphat said, “But before you do anything, ask GOD for guidance.””
2 Chronicles 18:4 — Message Bible
Before I do ANYTHING?! I’m thinking I should start the day, before I even get out of bed, by asking for God’s guidance... even in things I still don’t know I’m going to have to do! I may not remember to when the time comes! (But with practice I’ll surely get better.) I hope my choices will stay aligned to where I daily lay my trust.
12/6/2020 — Galatians 6:7-8
“Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.”
Galatians 6:7-8 — Message Bible
There are a number of weeds in my life that somehow got planted, that I’ve let grow. I am trying to keep my spiritual garden healthy by watering it daily with God’s Word. And prayer will be my weed killer!
12/5/2020 — Acts 12:11-12
“And Peter, being come to himself, said, Now I know certainly that the Lord has sent forth his angel... And having become clearly conscious in himself... The Acts 12:11-12 — Darby
Realizing that God has answered a prayer leads to trusting Him more. So often I pray and when it all works out (thanks to God!) I don’t even remember that I’ve prayed. I don’t even see that God has worked in my life because I’ve asked Him to!
Peter understood that his freedom was the result of his and his followers prayers. He saw clearly. May my eyes too be opened to the wonders, to the protection, to the guidance that God gives me daily.
12/4/2020 — Colossians 4:2
“Persevere in prayer, watching in it with thanksgiving;”
Colossians 4:2 — Darby Translation
I feel a need to pray for my children today. For protection from Corona which is creeping into their lives, for peace of heart and mind.
I want to learn to pray. I want to be an effective prayer partner with Jesus.
Lord, place Your banner of love over my four children.
Protect Julieta as she goes out to work. Protect her and her family from unseen viruses and fears. Keep her heart cheerful and filled with light. Protect Takumi in his solitary day. Bring him happiness and fulfillment in his new style of work. Help him establish married life he has hoped for.
Lord, protect Tony from all the invisible dangers of the hospital and patients. Give him wisdom and a light heart. Keep his mind and body healthy as he battles for his charges health. Protect Leiya in these last weeks of pre-motherhood. Keep her body strong and ready. Keep her from stress and fears. Make this new baby’s entrance into this world as easy as possible.
I know You are with us all. Unite our spirits in loving and trusting You. In Jesus’ name. Amen
12/3/2020 — James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect present comes from heaven; it comes down from God, the Creator of the heavenly lights, who does not change or cause darkness by turning.”
James 1:17 — Good News Translation
My word this year has been “gift”.
God has given me many gifts this year. A grandchild on the way, a new daughter-in-law. Good gifts!
He has also given us... the pandemic, which is not one I’d have asked for.
But because of the pandemic I’ve taken the time to think about life, to consider what is important to me, to grasp at peace when life is unsettling, to recognize what I miss, to take pleasure in basics.
God used even the pandemic to shower gifts upon me.
12/2/2020 — 1 Peter 4:10
“Every believer has received grace gifts, so use them to serve one another as faithful stewards of the many-colored tapestry of God’s grace.”
1 Peter 4:10 — The Passion Translation
I come back to this verse with the beautiful imagery or the colors of God’s world. We all contribute threads into God’s masterpiece! God chooses where to sew my thread and my color.
Don’t hide your gifts!
12/1/2020 — Acts 20:35
“I have shown you in all things that by working hard in this way we must help the weak, remembering the words that the Lord Jesus himself said, ‘There is more happiness in giving than in receiving.’ ””
Acts 20:35 — Good News Bible
I’m not sure why but I feel embarrassed receiving things, I’d much rather be on the giving end as I pat myself in my back for being generous or thoughtful or “gasp” not being indebted to someone.
This is all mixed up with pride and taking the upper hand and not really with giving...
Why not be on the receiving end and “give” the gift of giving to the other person!
11/30/2020 — James 3:17
“And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].”
James 3:18 — Amplified Bible
Spiritual maturity is the result of actively encouraging goodwill through peace. A good lesson for me and the world.
11/29/2020 — Acts 16:25
“At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.”
Acts 16:25 — Modern English Version
I think God is saying that if I go about as I’ve made it a habit to do, praying and praising God, then that is my testimony and others are listening whether I direct my communication to them or not.
Praise can be any way I choose to honor God.
11/28/2020 — 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love does not brag about one’s achievements nor inflate its own importance. Love does not traffic in shame and disrespect, nor selfishly seek its own honor. Love is not easily irritated or quick to take offense. Love joyfully celebrates honesty and finds no delight in what is wrong. Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 — The Passion Translation
This is such a beautiful translation to a well known set of verses. If only I could live out these instructions I might change lives (and mine included). Think of how many people we meet or communicate with every day.
Well, I will aspire towards this goal knowing all is unreachable but never giving up.
11/27/2020 — Colossians 3:12-4
“So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.”
Colossians 3:12-14 — Message Bible
When I get up in the morning what do I put on?
If one of the cats has urpped in the night I put on irritation as I clean up.
If John is in a bad mood (his usual morning mood) I put on a complaint.
If the weather holds for a walk I put on energy.
If the coffee is good and strong I put on contentment!
I need to choose from my closet some kindness, some compassion and some love!
11/26/2020 — Nehemiah 6:9
“They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination.”
Nehemiah 6:9 — New Living Translation
When I have my One Word I need to keep it in my mind. “Write it on your doorpost!” I keep it at the top of my blog page but how often do I look at that? I piece it out in fabric but that is sort of an after-the-fact project.
Satan wants to distract and get me to forget the purpose God has given me. KEEP REMINDERS FOREFRONT!
More words... Determination. Relax. Intention. Smile. Beauty.
11/25/2020 — Psalms 139:23
“Look deep into my heart, God, and find out everything I am thinking.”
Psalms 139:23 — Contemporary English Version
I am not choosing my One Word. God will give it to me. He knows me and my thoughts and He knows how I’m put together, what motivates me, what my strengths and weaknesses are. He made me that way!
Lord, search me, show me myself, give me my focus to make the most of myself for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
11/24/2020 — Philippians 3:13
“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead,”
Philippians 3:13 — New Living Translation
Focusing on One Thing... so much of what is troublesome is the past and what people have said, what has gone wrong before.
Forget. Is that a good word? Hmmm.
But we definitely need to look forward to the Hope and the Future that God has prepared for us. Two more words!
11/23/2020 — Psalms 27:4
“I have asked the Lord for one thing; one thing only do I want: to live in the Lord 's house all my life, to marvel there at his goodness, and to ask for his guidance.”
Psalm 27:4 — Good News Translation
It is getting along to that time of year when I’m thinking about my One Word...
What has God been saying to me this year? Stay positive. Reflect. Wait.
What do I need help with? Making the most out of what I have. Being grateful.
What words come to mind today? Seek. Wait. Live. Life. Enough.
I want to focus on this word in 2021. Seeking the Lord? Appreciating Life? Live fully? Having enough in all circumstances? Waiting out Corona?
I’ll keep adding words...
11/22/2020 — Numbers 6:24-26
“‘May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.’”
Numbers 6:24-26 — New Living Translation
How often have I heard these verses at the end of a worship service. I leave the consecrated hour with calmness and strength.
But this blessing isn’t just for me to receive, it is for me to pass on!! May I give my friends and acquaintances this same blessing in word or in thought.
11/21/2020 — Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know what I have planned for you,’ says the LORD. ‘I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. I have plans to give you a future filled with hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 — New English Translation
This is such an inspiring verse! What a promise to hang onto in this pandemic season!
God has a plan for me. GOD has a plan for me! Not my plan but God’s plan! And a GOOD plan!! Filled with hope and joy!
So keep my eyes on God, repeat His promises, stay positive!
11/20/2020 — Psalms 57:7
“My heart is steadfast, God, my heart is steadfast. I will sing, yes, I will sing praises.”
Psalms 57:7 — World English Bible
In the different translations on the Bible app “steadfast” is translated as “ right”, “confident”, “secure”, “decided”.
David’s emotions may have been wavering (hiding in a cave, uncertain of his future) but his HEART was steadfast! He had decided that no matter what was before him or happened to him, he was going to trust and love the Lord! And not grit his teeth and trust, but be joyful (in song) about it!
11/19/2020 — Isaiah 40:28
“Don’t you know who made everything? Haven’t you heard about him? The Lord is the God who lives forever. He created everything on earth. He won’t become worn out or get tired. No one will ever know how great his understanding is.”
Isaiah 40:28 — New International Revised Version
My question is, “What are intentional ways to be kind?” (And by the way, kindness can never be random, it is always intentional.)
When I don’t know how to be kind I must remember that God knows who needs a bit of kindness, what act of kindness needs to be done. His understanding of the problems of the world is greater than I can imagine and He controls everything including me.
Show me, Lord, where and when and how. In Jesus’ name. Amen
11/18/2020 — Proverbs 19:17
“Being kind to the poor is like lending to the Lord. The Lord will reward you for what you have done.”
Proverbs 19:17 — International Children‘s Bible
Who is the poor near me? We don’t have beggars on the street nor homeless in my area. People who need help have their pride too and it’s not like you can just hand a neighbor an envelope of money.
Poor in spirit? Poor in capabilities? I think I need my eyes opened to need and also nurture a generous heart.
“Kindness is not about taking a vow of poverty; it’s about making a commitment to generosity.” - Your Next 24 Hours
11/17/2020 — Romans 12:17
“Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone.”
Romans 12:17 — Amplified Bible
I’m still thinking...
What is right, what is proper? I don’t think I plan evil for evil but in doing exactly the same thing (avoidance) am I not repaying a hurt in the same way?
I have before tried an “approach” strategy and been rebuffed so this is why I hesitate reaching out again.
God, You are going to have to make the time and place!
11/16/2020 — Matthew 5:44
“However, I say to you, love your enemy, bless the one who curses you, do something wonderful for the one who hates you, and respond to the very ones who persecute you by praying for them.”
Matthew 5:44 — The Passion Translation
Okay, we’ve got be kind to yourself, and be kind to your family, be kind to the people you’re in contact with and now, be kind to your enemies.
How?!?
I can think of a neighbor we’ve had a falling out with. Months ago harsh words were exchanged, we’ve all avoided each other ever since.
My way of being kind is to not put myself in the vicinity. I also don’t speak to anyone about the incident not wanting to spread talk. That’s the extent of my kindness... but it certainly isn’t healing...
I’ve thought about going over to talk it out but don’t want any MORE reason to feel upset...
How does one be kind to an enemy? Pray for them...
11/15/2020 — Genesis 2:15
“The Lord God put the man in the garden of Eden to care for it and work it.”
Genesis 2:15 — International Children’s Bible
Isn’t it interesting where God has put each of us? I am in this place (small town in Japan) at this time (technology rich) with these people (husband, friends, acquaintances). What was the reason for this configuration?
It boils down to Bloom Where You’re Planted. I’m here not by my choosing (well, some choice was made about the husband) but because of God’s purpose.
I am to care for my place and time and use what is available to me to care for it and work it.
11/14/2020 — Deuteronomy 6:7
“Teach them to your children. Repeat them when you are at home and when you are away, when you are resting and when you are working.”
Deuteronomy 6:7 — Good News Bible
I hope that I have taught kindness to my children but more than that I hope they saw me (and my husband) practicing kindness in our home.
Kindness should begin in the home. Am I kind to Tetsu? Hmm. I get rather irritated sometimes but I try practicing kindness by not flying off the handle, by expressing gratitude.
There is always room for more!
11/13/2020 — Romans 8:12-13
“So, my brothers, we must not be ruled by our sinful selves. We must not live the way our sinful selves want. If you use your lives to do the wrong things your sinful selves want, then you will die spiritually. But if you use the Spirit’s help to stop doing the wrong things you do with your body, then you will have true life.”
Romans 8:12-13 — International Children‘s Bible
Before I can start serving others through kindness I need to be kind to myself. Just like the safety instructions on a flight tell us to save yourself first before trying to help someone else, the same principle applies here.
Be kind to yourself before trying to be kind to others. It will make the job much easier and it will be sincere not motions of sainthood!
11/12/2020 — Luke 11:5
“Then, teaching them more about prayer, he used this story: “Suppose you went to a friend’s house at midnight, wanting to borrow three loaves of bread. You say to him,”
Luke 11:5 — New Living Translation
I think the symbolism of knocking in this verse is praying not just for yourself but for someone else. We ask, we seek, and we also realize that we need to pray for friends when we alone cannot help them.
I have wondered why God even has a door there but I think it is there for us to see how much we are willing to keep knocking...
11/11/2010 — Jeremiah 29:13
“When you seek me in prayer and worship, you will find me available to you. If you seek me with all your heart and soul,”
Jeremiah 29:13 — New English Translation
Asking God to do something is great! But it is also rather passive, just waiting for an answer...
Seeking however requires action! Searching for God! Searching for God’s will!
In my daily prayers I will ask God but not just leave it at that, I will contemplate and seek God’s will for my request.
11/10/2020 — Matthew 21:21
“Jesus replied, “Listen to the truth. If you have no doubt of God’s power and speak out of faith’s fullness, you can be the ones who speak to a tree and it will wither away. Even more than that, you could say to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and be thrown into the sea’ and it will be done.”
Matthew 21:21 — The Passion Translation
I have no doubt of God’s power! Then what is it that keeps me from being certain God will answer my prayer? Do I think He doesn’t love me enough? No... do I think He has hard lessons that He wants me to learn? Maybe... sometimes I think that maybe I’m “protecting” God and myself... if I don’t expect then I won’t have to know God and I are not aligned and I also won’t be disappointed.
11/9/2020 — James 4:8
“Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.”
James 4:8 — New Living Translation
Do I always need to make the first step? “Come close to God and He will come close to you.” Or maybe God usually makes all of the first steps and I just don’t notice.
Another first step is “Knock and the door will be opened.” Or “seek first the kingdom of God and then all things will be given.”
God tells us to step out, to look, to do something... it is an act of faith. And faith large or small makes God happy.
11/8/2020 — John 7:37
“Now on the last and most important day of the feast, Jesus stood and called out [in a loud voice], “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink!”
John 7:37 — Amplified Bible
I am not a great water drinker... I remind myself and aim for six or seven glasses a day but I don’t often feel thirsty. Studies show though that our bodies need water even if we don’t think so.
A lot of people in this world don’t feel thirst for God or they may even mistake that need for something else!
Jesus says to come to Him when we thirst. We ought to recognize that we’re thirsting (for God!) even if we don’t feel that way!
I’m meeting with God part of my routine even when I’m tricked into thinking it is not vital.
11/7/2020 — Romans 12:12
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
Romans 12:12 — New International Version
So simple, so profound.
Even when things are not going well, stay hopeful. Joy will come. Even when life is hard, be patient. God is working. In good times and bad times continue to pray... It is how our faith grows.
11/6/2020 — Matthew 14:30
“But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!””
Matthew 14:30 — New International Version
Planned prayer time is good. A habit of praying at certain times of the day or making up a prayer list is a marvelous idea! But there are flash prayers... some that come with no thought to wording nor needing even a bowed head.
“God help me!” “God we need Your presence.”
I am the most concerned with the smallness of my own faith when I’ve gone through a crisis and in my panic I never thought to call out to God. After those times I say a belated prayer... “Forgive me. Thank You for working it out without my even asking.”
11/5/2020 — 1 Timothy 2:1-3
“The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.”
1 Timothy 2:1-3 — Message Bible
Lord, I pray today for the world, for the election going on today. You know whom I think would make the better leader but I leave it all to You. Whichever leaders are chosen give them wisdom and discernment, let them be seeking Your will. Give them a heart for the people whom they represent and the people that their decisions and actions affect.
We seek You and many if us wish to live in peace, not just free from fighting and arguing but free from fear and unrest.
Thank You for choosing the best leaders for this world. Cause us to accept all Your decisions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
11/4/2020 — Lamentations 3:23
“His great love is new every morning. Lord, how faithful you are!”
Lamentations 3:23 — New International Revised Version
God is faithful and every morning He gives new blessings and missions.
I long to have an iota of that faithfulness learning how to pray, joining my voice with other believers in the world.
Lord, You know I am here to study Your Word, to learn about You and to understand my purpose for today. Help me to find the words to tell You what is on my heart, to hear Your voice in a time of prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Make a prayer list of people and things to pray for.
11/3/2020 — Luke 6:40
“And how could the apprentice know more than his master, for only after he is fully qualified will he be at that level.”
Luke 6:40 — The Passion Translation
I don’t have a spiritual “Workman”, someone I am raising up spiritually. It is due to my lacking, not seeking out people, not being excited to share my faith.
This past year I’ve been “mentoring” a young woman in patchwork. She yearns to learn and do more, and she seeks me out.
I wish I could lead her to Christ as she needs so much confidence in herself, in her abilities, in her worth. But I don’t want to push her away with evangelism (I’ve made THAT mistake before).
I pray that my young friend catches the fragrance of Christ in our meetings and that she will seek Him and not just me.
11/2/2020 — Ezekiel 3:17
““Son of man, I have made you a watchman to the house of Israel. Therefore hear the word from my mouth, and warn them from me.”
Ezekiel 3:17 — World English Bible
I have had Watchmen in my life. People who teach me and pass on their wisdom to me. I think I need a Watchman (I probably do) but I realize that I am at an age and a stage in my life where I need to BE a Watchman for someone else!
Have I stayed close enough to God to be a teacher or model for someone else? I need to stop being a baby Christian.
11/1/2020 — Proverbs 27:17
“People learn from one another, just as iron sharpens iron.”
Proverbs 27:17 — Good News Bible
If I am a Walker in life, then I need to have Warriors beside me and I need to be a Warrior to others. My good and godly friends, where we can be honest with each other and be willing to step in when the Walker is in trouble or weak.
I can point to a Warrior or two in my life though I’m not sure I am a good Warrior for them.
Value godly friendships.
10/31/2020 — 1 John 2:6
“The one who says he resides in God ought himself to walk just as Jesus walked.”
1 John 2:6 New English Translation
I must be a “walker” with God before I can be anything else. I need to pursue God by reading the Bible. I need to speak and listen to Him in prayer. I need to worship Him with thanksgiving and praise. I need to do what Jesus did.
After that I can start thinking about my other roles.
10/30/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 2:8
“so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”
1 Thessalonians 2:8 — New International Version
In the book Wisdom Walks the author points out that we are a team walking through life. A Walker, a Warrior, a Watchman and a Workman.
I am the walker, a friend who stands beside me and is honest is the warrior, a mentor is the watchman who leads me in my faith and a workman is the person I work for and lead.
We each take a different position for each relationship. I can be someone’s mentor or warrior or workman.
10/29/2020 — Matthew 5:9
““How joyful you are when you make peace! For then you will be
recognized as a true child of God.”
Matthew 5:9 — The Passion Translation
If I’m assured of peace and God has put me in this world then I might as well be (am commanded to be!) an ambassador of peace!
My words may not convince people that God is among us but my actions can be a fragrance of His peaceful presence.
Smile, speak kind words, make a thoughtful gesture, listen.
10/28/2020 — Luke 1:78-79
“Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.”
Luke 1:78-79 — New Living Translation
It is a wonderful assurance that God will guide me to peace. I don’t have to go looking for it myself. In some Bible translations it says that the Word of God will guide us so if I want peace I need to stay close to God’s love letter to me.
God’s mercy and blessings are about to break upon us!!
10/27/2020 — Philippians 4:7
“And God’s peace will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. The peace that God gives is so great that we cannot understand it.”
Philippians 4:7 — International Children’s Bible
Do I have peace about COVID-19?
No, because I still can’t decide whether to risk going to the States to see my soon-to-be-born grandson. I wonder about bringing illness to the family after passing through airports and so many people. And I’m concerned about heading into a country (USA) with so many cases and bringing the virus back...
But yes, I have peace about what might be. If it comes upon us, God will provide. We are not particularly upset at sheltering down. I find many ways to enjoy the lack of busyness. Am I closing my eyes to reality? Has Covid-19 still just not hit close enough? Or am a being given a layer of acceptance and peace from God? Maybe God’s peace is here but I just don’t recognize it.
10/26/2020 — Hebrews 4:15
“We have a high priest who can feel it when we are weak and hurting. We have a high priest who has been tempted in every way, just as we are... — Hebrews 4:15
I suppose this is a good verse for me today who is laid up with a slipped disc and is feeling sick and weak and useless and a burden.
All I can do is let it go and let others and God take care of things. And try to be cheerful and grateful! Better tomorrow, Lord?
10/25/2020 — Psalms 57:1
“God Most High, have pity on me! Have mercy. I run to you for safety. In the shadow of your wings, I seek protection till danger dies down.”
Psalms 57:1 — Contemporary English Version
During this pandemic we take refuge in our own homes, behind masks and face shields, protected by soap and antiseptic. But shouldn’t our real refuge be with God? Under His protection, waiting until COVID passes in prayer for ourselves, our loved ones, our world.
Sometimes I find it hard to believe the day will come when COVID is not a threat. By then I hope I learn to rely on God for protection from anything and to stay near to Him always.
10/24/2020 — 1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — New International Version
Something (that turned out to be nothing) sent my heart racing today... all the terrible possibilities flooded my mind!
“No, wait. Lord, keep them safe! Lord, don’t let anything bad happen.”
It became a mantra for a few minutes and until my fears were calmed I kept saying,
“You are Lord. You are in control. I give everything to You. Don’t let Satan play with my mind.”
Today I threw my anxiety to God and clung to His love.
10/23/2020 — Isaiah 26:3
“Lord, you keep those people safe who continue to trust in you. You give them peace in their minds, because they believe in you.”
Isaiah 26:3 — Easy English Bible
The picture of peace is not quietness all around but being calm when all else is going crazy.
During this pandemic, during this crazy election, during this time of racial unrest and ecological eroding... God is here. He still knows what we need and He still controls all. The even greater gift is He will give me peace when I stay close to Him.
“...peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace.”
—Eric Célérier
10/22/2020 — Exodus 14:14
“The LORD will fight for you while you [only need to] keep silent and remain calm.””
Exodus 14:14 — Amplified Bible
Why do I forget that God will fight all my battles. All I need to do is find a quiet place and pray.
I always see animals as being better at trusting God. They don’t worry or plan or organize. While we humans try to keep everything within our control, God’s other creatures are in tune with God given instincts and know to follow God’s lead.
Trust and obey.
10/21/2020 — 1 John 4:18
“If we really love God, we will not be afraid of him. We cannot love him completely and also be afraid. We would only be afraid of God if we thought that he would punish us. So, if someone is afraid that God will punish them, it shows that they do not completely know God's love.”
1 John 4:18 — Easy English Bible
God loves me. God controls everything. God has my good in mind. There is no punishment from God for those who love Him. I have no need of worry and fear.
Okay! I think my future is all set!
10/20/2020 — Matthew 6:33
“But more than anything else, put God's work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well.”
Matthew 6:33 — Contemporary English Version
God isn’t withholding promises from me, He is preparing me for them.
Instead of worrying and wondering about God’s timing just do what is laid out before me and believe that at some point my will and God’s will will be joined.
10/19/2020 — Exodus 17:2
“But Moses’ hands became heavy. So they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. And his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.”
Exodus 17:12 — Modern English Bible
In this passage I’m reminded of two sets of friends who supported Tetsu and me during our “battle of August”. If it wasn’t for these friends I might have walked off in a huff and gone to live in the States I was so angry at Tetsu!!
My friend came to see me only because I’d told her I was down in the dumps. She listened to me spill out my anger, she said she would pray in my place because I was so upset I couldn’t even pray.
Later when I texted to say I was thinking about going off on my own she and her husband relayed concern to mutual friends (Marlene and husband) who rushed to our home early in the morning letting me go home with Marlene while Tetsu and her husband talked. If not for the intervention of these two couples I don’t know if Tetsu and I would have been able to end our battle...
When we are tired God is coordinating people and situations. He uses those people to support us and to do what we cannot do ourselves.
I will forever be grateful for our godly friends concern and courage.
10/18/2020 — Joshua 1:9
“I've commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9 — Contemporary English Version
I’m not sure it is courage I need but I do get rather discouraged by the state of the political world and the pandemic. I remind myself that God is in control. He knows our future. He has goodness in mind for us.
My job is to stay close to God and always seek His will. He will give wisdom and peace. He has the whole world in His hands.
10/17/2020 — Philippians 2:11
“And every tongue will proclaim in every language: “Jesus Christ is Lord Yahweh,” bringing glory and honor to God, his Father!”
Philippians 2:11 — The Passion Translation
I love that there will someday come a day when Jesus’ name will be shouted and praised and whispered and spoken in every corner of the earth in every language imaginable. What a awesome clamor of voices and pronunciations all giving glory to God!
10/16/2020 — 2 Corinthians 1:20
“Christ says ‘Yes’ to all of God's promises, so that they become true. So when we pray, we say ‘Yes, amen!,’ because we know that Christ has done it. And when we do that, we are saying that God is great.”
2 Corinthians 1:20 — Easy English Bible
All of God’s promises will someday be fulfilled. We can believe this because God sent us Jesus as the world’s savior. Someday every knee will bow to Jesus and everyone will recognize Him. That is the Yes.
My agreeing with this truth, my faith that God keeps His promises is my Amen. God’s promises, Jesus’ fulfillment, and my faith that God keeps His promises is our YES, AMEN.
10/15/2020 — Exodus 20:25
“You may use stones to make an altar for me. But don’t use stones that you have made smooth with tools. You must not use any tools on the stones. If you do, you make them unsuitable for use in worship.”
Exodus 20:25 — International Children’s Bible
God wants an altar of uncut, raw stones. He doesn’t want perfection and polish.
God asks us to come before Him as we are. I don’t have to (I can’t) clean up my life before I pray to Him. He actually wants me to recognize how unfinished, how sharp and rough I really am.
Don’t speak to God in flowery language. Don’t focus on appearing godly nor even humble. Take my broken, ugly, damaged heart and lay it before God. The altar is also an offering.
10/14/2020 — 2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, “My grace is enough for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” So then, I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 — New English Version
Negative thinking seeps in even when I’m not particularly negative.
“No, I don’t think I’ll participate. Things are likely to go wrong when I’m around.” “No, I’m not going to do that. Other people find a way but I don’t have the know how.”
It borders on superstition...
When I feel that my efforts, my presence, my participation is not enough, know that God is meeting me at that point to carry on, to give me strength or wisdom or whatever I need.
I will NEVER be enough but God supplies what I don’t have.
10/13/2020 — Matthew 7:7
““Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you’ll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you.”
Matthew 7:7 — The Passion Translation
If I want to be in God’s presence I only need to step through the door. He is never hiding. He never has it locked. He isn’t away.
Ask God to let me come to Him, and then take the first step through the door. His gift is the open door.
10/12/2020 — John 17:3
“And what is eternal life? It is knowing you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
John 17:3 — New International Reader’s Version
Knowing Jesus puts me with generations of people who have sought Him, loved Him, complained to Him, cried to Him, exalted Him. I belong and know there are others who have felt as I do. And I belong with future generations too.
Knowing Jesus gives me a beginning and an end. I know where I came from and I know where I’m going.
Knowing Jesus, allows me entrance into God’s holy presence.
Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You.
There is no greater thing.
You’re my all, You’re the best, You’re my joy, my righteousness. And I love You, Lord.
10/11/2020 — 2 Timothy 3:17
“Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be ready and will have everything he needs to do every good work.”
2 Timothy 3:17 — International Children’s Bible
Sometimes I think that I don’t know what God’s will is... what He wants me to do... But the Bible, His letter to me, His Living message is right here in front of me!
I’m not going to find specific instructions by reading the whole thing from cover to cover. I need to pray, ask what I should do, and then trust and expect God to speak to me through His Word.
I have everything I need.
10/10/2020 — Job 38:18
“Do you understand how big the earth is? Tell me, if you know all these things.”
Job 38:18 — New
International Reader’s Version
When I realize (which I actually cannot) how great God is I have a sense of futility about anything I should try to do or any influence I might make during my life.
BUT my smallness also makes me aware of why I can and should and must leave everything to God! Being humble before God is also a great comfort! I don’t need to try and manage everything. God is in control!!
10/9/2020 — Deuteronomy 8:3
“...He did this to teach you that human beings must not depend on bread alone to sustain them, but on everything that the LORD says.”
Deuteronomy 8:3 — Good News Bible
God let the Israelites go hungry so that they would learn that the needed Him. We are hungering now... for godly leadership, for the freedom go to church, to eat lunch with friends, to fly across the world, for a world free from contagion.
In this time of deprivation I sense a hungering not just for these THINGS but also for the presence of God.
God’s Word, everyday manna, sustains and strengthens me.
10/8/2020 — James 1:22
“But be careful to do what God says in his message. Do not only listen to it. Do not make that mistake!”
James 1:22 — Easy English Bible
Whether because of my age or because of laziness, I’m rather content to let the Bible inspire me with good thoughts but slow to change my quiet routine.
Am I deceiving myself?
Reading the Word, writing down Scripture, even studying the Bible is great, but if I’m not putting it into practice I’m missing the point.
What is one thing I can DO today that is from God?
Pray for my country (countries) and for their leadership.
10/7/2020 — Deuteronomy 11:18
“Remember my words in your hearts and souls. Write them down and tie them to your hands as a sign. Tie them on your foreheads to remind you.”
Deuteronomy 11:18 — International Children’s Bible
To make the Bible remain in my mind and in my life I need to put up physical reminders of God’s message of love. The Hebrews were told to put God Word on their doorframes, on their clothing, on their hands and heads.
I can keep Scripture on my phone. I can write down Scripture daily. I can hang Scripture on my walls. But I can also recite Scripture, sing Scripture, memorize Scripture.
Immersing myself in God’s Word is my gift to myself.
10/6/2020 — Psalms 119:15
“I spend time thinking about your rules. I consider how you want me to live.”
Psalm 119:15 — New International Reader’s Version
My hope is that making a habit of reading God’s Word and spending time with Him will give me the wisdom and the peace to maneuver my way through whatever comes my way. And I want to delight the Lord, and I want to have the character of love that I sometimes find hard to put forward.
Probably I need to use my time to “study” the Bible more... God speaks through the Bible so it is always good to seek understanding.
10/5/2020 — Hebrews 4:10
“As we enter into God’s faith-rest life we cease from our own works, just as God celebrates his finished works and rests in them.”
Hebrews 4:10 — The Passion Translation
God wants us to know the benefits of resting in Him. Not just a nap or a vacation, but a habit of giving Him our problems.
I think of the Brain Dumps of bullet journaling, letting the pressure valve release steam but in this case releasing it all to God.
Faith-rest today and everyday.
10/4/2020 — John 14:26
“But the Helper will teach you everything. He will cause you to remember all the things I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.”
John 14:26 — International Children’s Bible
Later in this chapter the Bible talks about the peace we can have with God. And peace and hurry are on opposite sides of the line!
God has given us a helper who guides us to peace, but I’m certainly not going to hear Him if the TV is on, if I’m checking my phone, if I’m behind on my deadlines.
Take time to make time. Stop and listen for the Spirit’s guidance.
10/3/2020 — Philippians 4:8
“Brothers, continue to think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.”
Philippians 4:8 — International Children’s Bible
It is easy to say, “I’m giving God my future.” The future is not mine to give! I have only the present!
Don’t wait to be happy or to find joy or peace. Do it, be it, think it now!
10/2/2020 — 1 Corinthians 13:4
“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.”
1 Corinthians 13:4 — Amplified Bible
God’s love is slow love. We talk about walking with God, not running with Him
God is patient, and He is patient with our mistakes, our dilly-dallying. He knows how busyness and hurry promotes irritation. And when I am irritated and pressed for time, I doubt very much that anyone around me feels love.
The speed of God is slow. Slow can be a very good thing.
10/1/2020 — Matthew 11:28-30
““Are you tired? Worn out?... Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.””
Matthew 11:28-30 — Message Bible
I heard many years ago, and have sensed it myself, that busyness hinders our relationship with God. We can’t find time for Him. He who MADE us and MADE time!
I suppose I’m not particularly busy during this pandemic... but I put pressure on myself to use my time to its utmost.
Keep in mind that my time is from God and it is a small thing to thank Him for it and to spend some of it with Him.
9/30/2020 — Philippians 2:9-11
“So God lifted him up to the highest place. God gave him the name that is above every name. When the name of Jesus is spoken, everyone will kneel down to worship him. Everyone in heaven and on earth and under the earth will kneel down to worship him. Everyone’s mouth will say that Jesus Christ is Lord. And God the Father will receive the glory.”
Philippians 2:9-11 — New International Readers Version
I want to remember the power of Jesus’ name. When I am tempted, let me rebuke Satan with Jesus’ name. When I need help, let me speak to God in Jesus’ name.
Because God has claimed me as His, I carry Jesus’ name with me on my heart, in my soul, placed over my name in the book of eternity.
9/29/2020 — Colossians 3:15
“The peace that Christ gives is to guide you in the decisions you make; for it is to this peace that God has called you together in the one body. And be thankful.”
Colossians 3:15 — Good News Bible
So I have a decision to make... I’m waiting for God’s assurance that one way or the other is His way. I usually base my decision on not taking the easy way out but I’m not sure...
I don’t think I have peace yet about this... but I am thankful that I have a choice and that God will direct me.
9/28/2020 — Matthew 14:29-30
“He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!””
Matthew 14:29-30 — Message Bible
Someone told me to find three things in my room that were red. I found a bag, a patchwork flower, the rim of children’s scissors. Then I was told to close my eyes and name one yellow thing I’d seen.
Um...
When we focus on something (red) we can’t see anything else (yellow) even though it has always been there.
Get your eyes off the problem and search out Jesus. Focus on Him.
9/27/2020 — Psalms 37:23
“A man’s goings are established by Yahweh. He delights in his way.”
Psalms 37:23 — World English Bible
My life and its steps, have already been established by God. My job is to stay close to God and follow His footsteps. God watches me closely and He delights in the details of my life. I please Him when I ask for direction and He draws me closer when I willingly give my hours to Him.
Your way, Yahweh
9/26/2020 — 2 Timothy 1:10
“Now Christ Jesus has come to offer us God's gift of undeserved grace. Christ our Savior defeated death and brought us the good news. It shines like a light and offers life that never ends.”
2 Timothy 1:10 — Contemporary English Version
My good friend’s mother passed away this week. How good to know that she is in heaven now. Through her faith her family knows Jesus and we all have the assurance of seeing her again.
The caring for a loved one living their last days on this earth is a strange set of gifts. The pondering and wondering about why this preparation to move to a new realm is necessary, is a gift to the career reflecting upon life’s purpose.
Of course there is the gift of the carers to the bedridden... “we love you this much. We stand by you and say without words what you mean to us.”
And in the end there is the promise of being together again.
9/25/2020 — Romans 8:39
“There is no power above us or beneath us—no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God’s passionate love, which is lavished upon us through our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One!”
Romans 8:39 — The Passion Translation
I am reminded of my word I chose for the year. GIFT.
It takes a bit of effort to imagine the pandemic as being a gift from God but I try and think of this unusual time as being set apart to reflect and draw closer to God. The busyness is gone, the family is centered in my heart if not in my home. I appreciate the daily blessings of health and chores.
God is with me and I still believe He is using this time for my betterment. I am social distancing but not distancing from God.
9/24/2020 — Philippians 4:6
“Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life,”
Philippians 4:6 — The Passion Translation
God is this amazing, magnificent, omniscient, omnipotent creator who loves us and saved us from hell, and He is still interested in the details of our lives!
God concerns Himself with the movement of the stars and He also listens to me cry about stray cats.
Nothing is too large for God to handle, but nothing is too small for Him either. Tell Him all.
9/23/2020 — 2 Chronicles 33:12-13
“Now that he was in trouble, he went to his knees in prayer asking for help—total repentance before the God of his ancestors. As he prayed, GOD was touched; GOD listened and brought him back to Jerusalem as king. That convinced Manasseh that GOD was in control.”
2 Chronicles 33:12-13 — Message Bible
Not unlike Manasseh, the very evil king of Judah, I fall on my knees before God when I’m in trouble. Oh the repentance, the pleading! Why will I not wise up and stay at the level of communication with God in satisfaction as well as in trouble?
In Manasseh’s favor, he did repent TOTALLY and he did change. It is the heart that God sees and the prayer of repentance that God hears.
Hopefully just because things go my way again I won’t have to be convinced that God is in control.
9/22/2020 — Mark 6:31
“But many people were coming and going. So they did not even have a chance to eat. Then Jesus said to his apostles, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place. You need to get some rest.””
Mark 6:31 — New International Version
Rest can mean the sleep the body takes at night or a retreat from routine on a vacation. It might mean the weekend but today it means for me a quiet few minutes thinking about God.
Jesus gave this rest as a command, not a suggestion. Maybe the morning intention is the most important as my “restful” weekends get filled with non daily chores... our vacations get filled with sightseeing and time schedules. The daily rest for my soul is as necessary as the nightly rest for the body.
God made humans on the 6th day. And on the 7th He said “rest!”
“What God? I’m ready to get out and manage the world!”
That comes later. First rest.
9/21/2020 — Mark 1:35
“It was very early in the morning and still dark. Jesus got up and left the house. He went to a place where he could be alone. There he prayed.”
Mark 1:35 — New International Version
The best reason to do something is because Jesus showed me how by His life. If Jesus got up early to talk to God that is what I should strive to do.
My own quiet time is not the first thing on my morning list but it ranks up there. I may not go off to a desolate place but I close the door and take a half hour alone.
Taking a scripture and pondering over it, trying to find God’s message for me this day starts my quiet time. Prayer probably gets the least attention in terms of requesting and praising. This is where I need to start making my time with God more like Jesus’.
9/20/2020 — 2 Timothy 4:13
“...Also bring the books for me. If you cannot bring all of them, then be sure to bring my special papers.”
2 Timothy 4:13 — Easy English Bible
What are my special books and papers? My Bible of course though recently I do most of my bible reading through You Version, comparing translations as I read. My New Standard American from college is so worn that the pages are falling out... do I need a new Bible?
You Version provided hundreds of devotions and I go to those daily.
My bullet journal/devotional journal where I write down my thoughts about each passage.
I guess those are my special papers that I keep by me as I talk to God.
9/19/2020 — Hebrews 13:7
“Don't forget about your leaders who taught you God's message. Remember what kind of lives they lived and try to have faith like theirs.”
Hebrews 13:7 — Contemporary English Version
It is important to have friends of faith so that we can observe how they go through their own trials and we can apply the principles in our lives.
I can’t think of just one spiritual friend or leader but I know Y-San has taught me about being godly, K-San has taught me about bearing up, M-San has taught me about being bold, L-San has taught me about deliberate living.
God uses all people and all situations to teach us and to mold us into the images He has planned for us.
9/18/2020 — Psalms 43:3
“Give me your lantern and compass, give me a map, So I can find my way to the sacred mountain, to the place of your presence, To enter the place of worship, meet my exuberant God...”
Psalm 43:3 — Message Bible
What is the lantern? Jesus himself. “I am the light of the world.” The Bible. “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet.”
What is the compass? The Holy Spirit. “For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”
And what is the map? Again, the Bible and its instruction. “...It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness.”
With these things I can find my way back to God in my deepest stretches of sadness and frustration.
9/17/2020 — Romans 15:2
“Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, “How can I help?””
Romans 15:2
Sigh...maybe that is the answer to yesterday’s problem.
I wasn’t being helpful and my neighbor and God may be disappointed in me.
9/16/2020 — Psalm 42:3
“...All day long people knock at my door, Pestering, “Where is this God of yours?””
Psalm 42:3 — Message Bible
I’m a bit discouraged this morning. About a neighbor... in my mind, a pestering neighbor...
I’m considering that I didn’t handle the situation well. I rather bluntly said that she couldn’t expect me to solve the problem she had seen. She was astounded that she should be expected to solve a problem by calling the city hall or the police herself...
I would love to go on defending myself but all I know for certain is she isn’t happy with me and she definitely didn’t meet God in my doorstep when she rang my bell.
Lord, am I expected to smile pleasantly at every demand?”
9/15/2020 — Acts 10:19-20
“While Peter was thoughtfully considering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Now listen, three men are looking for you. Get up, go downstairs and go with them without hesitating or doubting, because I have sent them Myself.””
Acts 10:19-20 — Amplified Bible
God-incidences are the “chance” encounters, the odd moments when you are thinking about something and the thought or person or word comes up again.
Nothing happens without God’s permission. With the God-incidences God is grabbing my attention, reinforcing what He wants me to know and act on.
Reflect upon what God put in my mind in a quiet time (review my journal). I may be surprised at how my day was shaped by the thought God gave me earlier.
9/14/2020 — John 3:30
This is the assigned moment for him to move into the center, while I slip off to the sidelines.”
John 3:30 — Message Bible
The more common translation is “He must become greater while I must become less.”
I like to think of myself as the main character of the story, the main actor, but it’s just not so. God’s overall plan includes things I see and things I don’t even know about but my lifespan is a very small walk-on part.
If I continue to try to be the center I will wear myself out physically and mentally.
God is the center. I am a supporting character and my job is to direct whatever light I have to spot-light Jesus, the only important role in our drama called life.
9/13/2020 — Acts 17:11
“...they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.”
Acts 17:11 — World English Bible
Some people meet God’s Word differently than others and for that reason they are more willing to accept the message.
In this verse the Jews of one city were more open-minded than the Jews in another city. They STUDIED. They TESTED. They didn’t write-off the message as gullible peoples’ faith, but they didn’t blindly follow either.
I am encouraged to study scripture myself and not just accept what a pastor or popular book says. It is MY faith.
9/12/2020 — Psalms 19:10
“The rarest treasures of life are found in his truth. That’s why I prize God’s word like others prize the finest gold. Nothing brings the soul such sweetness as seeking his living words.”
Psalms 19:10 — The Passion Translation
Reading God’s Word really does give me comfort and courage. The idea of knowing that God inspired someone, by the Lord’s circumstances to write the scriptures, that God has used a saint in a problem or joy that I can relate to, that God has brought ME to this message everyday is a wonder.
The sweetness of the day is just enough, much like the manna gathered in Egypt. Eat, taste and know that God’s message is good.
9/11/2020 — Psalms 119:93
“I will never forget your precepts, for with them, you have revived me.”
Psalms 119:93 — World English Bible
Well, in all honesty though I hope I won’t forget my morning’s resounding verse, a few hours later I sometimes think,
“Now what was that conviction I had when I was reading my Bible this morning?”
This is why the daily bullet journal Bible page has kept God’s truths on my mind but still I have a short memory. I’ve got a daily WORD that I pull from each devotion’s scripture (I’ve got the scripture written down too). Maybe I need a memory challenge...
9/10/2020 — 2 Timothy 3:16
“Every Scripture has been inspired by the Holy Spirit, the breath of God. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness.”
2 Timothy 3:16 — The Passion Translation
Hopefully, I’m not just glancing at the Bible, gleaming advice and wisdom. Do I understand I am not reading it as a self-help book but as set apart as God’s mission for me today?!
It teaches (thank You Lord!). It shows me where I’ve gone wrong. But more importantly, it EMPOWERS!
It is not enough to just understand that I’m not walking in God’s will. God gives me the desire, the strength, the
courage to follow those instructions! Praise the Lord.
Consider making more time to go deeper into learning God’s purpose.
9/9/2020 — Revelation 10:9
“I went to the angel and asked him to give me the small scroll. He said to me, “Take it and eat it. It will be bitter in your stomach, but it will be as sweet as honey in your mouth.””
Revelation 10:9 — God’s Word
The implications of this verse don’t follow what we’d normally consider good advice.
“Take the medicine... it tastes awful but it will cure your stomachache.”
Here the results are opposite. God’s Word will be sweet (uplifting, comforting, full of good news) but the true message is bitter (condemning, full of God’s wrath).
I reach for the Bible for strength and direction. If I take it half-heartedly or ignore the conditions I am setting myself against God’s will.
“...forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors...”.
Only claiming the lovely parts of the Bible is only hearing half of God’s message.
9/8/2020 — 2 Timothy 2:15
“Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth.”
2 Timothy 2:15 — Amplified Bible
As we say over and over, just studying the Bible isn’t the purpose. Putting the Bible into practice is the purpose and “practice” is the word!
I have a sewing machine. I have the inspiration and the desire to make beautiful quilts but it doesn’t happen without the practice. It gets easier as I do it and it seems to get better.
Following God’s course, becoming a useful tool in His world takes practice on my part too. Day by day, with PRACTICE I am becoming what God wants me to be!
9/7/2020 — 2 Timothy 2:26
“Their minds will start to think clearly. It is the Devil who has made them believe wrong things. He has made them do what he wants. Now they can get free from his power.”
2 Timothy 2:26 — Easy English
I start by reading this verse and thinking “Yes! My husband needs God to get him thinking clearly!”
But wait. I am the one reading this verse and spending time with God right now. I am the one who needs God to change my thinking and free me from Satan’s trap. My friend K-San pointed out how the devil was enjoying the havoc he was playing.
Stay close to God. Don’t let the devil play with my mind. Invoke Jesus’ name. Concern myself with myself not how God is working in someone else’s life.
9/6/2020 — James 1:21
In simple humility, let our gardener, God, landscape you with the Word, making a salvation-garden of your life.”
James 1:21 — Message Bible
The Bible verses I come into contact with daily, even the ones I think speak to my heart, are not chosen by me but instead are hand picked by God to be planted into the garden of my life. I am to water them with attention and meditation and help them to take root and produce ten-fold.
9/5/2020 — Psalms 119:11
“I keep your word close, in my heart, so that I won’t sin against you.”
Psalms 119:11 — Common English Bible
I do not want to sin yet I find myself delaying to obey, to rationalize it as “waiting on the Lord.”
I search the scriptures and write out verses, I memorize, I meditate. Yet all the treasuring of God’s Word does not necessarily produce the joy I’m hoping for.
Is it the pandemic and limitations that rob me of joy? Is it the carefully polite relationship Tetsu and I have eased into that lacks spark? Is it the humidity and heat that drains?
I am storing up God’s promises and clinging to them, but feel rather like play-acting.
9/4/2020 — Acts 18:28
“Some of the Jews there spoke against Apollos' message. But he argued strongly against them so that everyone could hear. He explained to them what God had said in the Bible. He showed them clearly that Jesus is God's Messiah.”
Acts 18:28 — Easy English Bible
Apollos clearly knew his scripture and he wasn’t afraid to be bold, and all his preparation seems to have been effective in bringing people to Jesus.
Where am I lacking? I know scripture but not in ways that convince, prove, or confirm. My scripture knowledge and the love for it is enough for me, but it is not systematic.
I am not bold. If people ask about my beliefs I’m willing to share but I’m not an evangelist (though I came to Japan as a missionary!)
Apollo’s must have had a love for the people he spoke with, he had a concern for their eternal future... and I? Though I claim love, I also practice acceptance of individual’s thoughts and different customs. Does my love not extend to eternity?
One step at a time. Understand the gospel message.
9/3/2020 — Psalms 107:43
“If you are truly wise, you’ll learn from what I’ve told you. It’s time for you to consider these profound lessons of God’s great love and mercy!”
Psalms 107:43 — The Passion Translation
Consider, think about, ponder, contemplate. These words engage the mind. To know more, to gain understanding.
The Bible doesn’t want us to go just on feelings because feelings change with situations and even health. We are urged to stand on what we know is true. We are drawn to worship the promises we know are certain.
9/2/2020 — Daniel 6:10
“...There, just as he had always done, he knelt down at the open windows and prayed to God three times a day.”
Daniel 6:10 — Good News Bible
Daniel had a quiet time. He praised and prayed to God three times a day.
My routine takes place in the sunroom looking out over Tetsu’s garden and the forest. I read the Bible with a Bible app and I usually follow a devotion, this week about quiet time.
Unlike Daniel, I let life’s upsets disturb my routine but in the end I come back to my window and time with God.
9/1/2020 — Psalm 119:18
“Open my eyes [to spiritual truth] so that I may behold Wonderful things from Your law.”
Psalms 119:18 — Amplified Bible
My purpose is to understand what god expects of me daily. I come to Him to quiet my own mind and to be renewed. His strength is enough, not my wisdom or effort. In my seeking, I need the Holy Spirit to open my eyes to God’s presence, to open my heart to His love, to open the scriptures to His instructions.
8/31/2020 — John 9:3
“Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but it was so that the works of God might be displayed and illustrated in him.”
John 9:3 — Amplified Bible
A cracked vessel. One that doesn’t hold water and is ugly to look at. One that seems ready for the garbage bin. But for a lot candle inside, the cracks are the very reason the vessel can be used!
All the faults and mistakes I have and make are used by God. He is the great creator who turns out beauty from what I see as failure.
All the problems in myself and even in the world will be transformed to purpose in God’s time.
8/30/2020 — Matthew 6:34
“So do not have trouble in your mind about what might happen tomorrow. Tomorrow will have its own problems. It is enough for you to be thinking each day about the problems of that day.’”
Matthew 6:34 — EASY English Bible
FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real.
I waste my time and worse, I squander the JOY that could be found today by planning control over tomorrow’s foreseen problems. The problems may never arrive! Why exchange today’s joy with anxious plans hoping to lessen tomorrow’s pain? Embrace the joy AND embrace the pain!
The GIFT of God is His PRESENT. Live in the present.
8/29/2020 — Philippians 4:6
“Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns...”
Philippians 4:6 — Message Bible
I’ve come to this verse before and it is a really hard one for me. Don’t worry. Pray instead. It sounds so simple and so true when everything is going fine with me but when things go wrong I find it hard to pray, let alone be grateful.
“...shape your worries into prayers”...
How? By petitions and praises.
Maybe write down the problem... reshape the phrasing using words of gratefulness. Add a word of trust in God. Sign off with a declaration of love to Him.
Does the anxiety/anger/sadness turn into a prayer? It’s a start to a habit.
8/28/2020 — James 4:7
“So give yourselves to God. Stand against the devil, and the devil will run away from you.”
James 4:7 — International Children’s Bible
Isn’t it true that the first move in a war is for an enemy to cut off lines of communication between the troops and their commander? Satan works the same way.
When I’m my angriest and sometimes saddest, I can’t even pray. If I go to the Word I find myself skimming, not searching and not even expecting. That is why I was comforted when my dear friend’s words to me was,
“I will pray for you when you cannot pray for yourself.”
The Holy Spirit is praying (interceding) for me when I don’t know what or how to pray myself. And a close friend praying in my stead removes a great burden from my heart.
8/27/2020 — James 1:6,8
“When you ask for something, don’t have any doubts. A person who has doubts is like a wave that is blown by the wind and tossed by the sea....A person who has doubts is thinking about two different things at the same time and can’t make up his mind about anything.”
James 1:6, 8 — God’s Word
If I sit around and go over and over my options, possible results, my emotions, working myself into a frenzy, what am I doing? I’m not trusting God. I’m trying to solve the problem on my own... I’m definitely of two minds! Be accepting and “godly”. (Is it really?) No, stand up for what I feel is unjust.
I’m actually STILL of two minds I see!
Trust God. He WILL work the situation out. Don’t ponder whether it will be what I want or not. It will always be good.
8/26/2020 — 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
Money, fame, status and also reputation, comfort, control, fears, feelings, pride. I cannot or maybe it’s better put, I tried but could not serve God and the other at the same time. I wanted to give my emotions to God but I also wanted to control my future. I wanted to be godly but instead I let my feelings and pride rule.
I’m not sure how to “surrender it all to God” in practical ways. In dark times it is hard to even pray let alone consciously return my life to God.
Take it all, take it all.
All I have are open hands. — Laura Story
8/25/2020 — Philippians 4:8
“So keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.”
Philippians 4:8 — The Passion Translation
My thoughts were pretty out of control last week. What thought is from God and what is from Satan? Things that are uplifting and honorable are God’s. Things that send me spiraling into confusion and sadness are a trick.
Learn to be aware of who I am letting control my thoughts. Recognize darkness and send it fleeing with Jesus name.
8/19/2020 — Mark 10:7
“That’s why a man will leave his father and mother and will remain united with his wife,”
Mark 10:7 — God’s Word
Still at a standstill. All is quiet in the home.
40 years ago this sounded like a simple promise. I wonder when my children are going to see that a marriage is not so easy, though I don’t think anyone ever said it was easy, just that we had dreams of growing old together (and we have) and looking into each other’s eyes with laughter (not recently).
God’s Word translation is interesting isn’t it? “...and will remain united with his wife.” Okay. So I guess I’ll put in the hard work of remaining.
8/18/2020 — Ephesians 4:29
“Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.”
Ephesians 4:29 — message Bible
I’m in the middle of a communication chasm with my husband. We are definitely having problems talking with each other and it’s not due to language.
At the very least, no ugly words have been thrown, well, criticisms but we tend to argue using the silent treatment. Obviously this isn’t great but I ask God to especially keep my words pure and kind.
“If you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all!”
That may be part of our problem.
8/17/2020 — Psalms 37:5
“Open up before GOD, keep nothing back; he’ll do whatever needs to be done...” Psalm 37:5 — Message Bible
God is telling me I don’t have to pretend to be the strong Christian, the loving wife, the perky neighbor, the happy blogger. At least not with Him. I can rant and swear and threaten and plot all I want and He will straighten everything out.
In the meantime, do I still adopt the fake-it-til-you-make-it philosophy? I don’t know how my friends or children would react to the anger I push aside... I don’t want to hurt people or make the problems bigger.
God often says to wait on Him. I guess I’ll rant in my Bullet Journal and call it a letter to God. God is in control.
8/16/2020 — 1 Corinthians 6:20
“You were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
1 Corinthians 6:20 — Modern English Bible
Glorifying God in my spirit is easy, with prayer and singing songs of praise. Glorifying God with my body is harder to pin down...
How is cooking glorifying God? How is making quilts or private Bullet Journaling?
Maybe it is not what I do, or even the result of what I do, but that I do it with joy, with love, with gratitude. God will take my drops of effort and bless someone else and THAT will glorify God whether I’m aware of it or not.
8/15/2020 — Proverbs 10:22
“It is the LORD’s blessing that makes a person rich, and hard work adds nothing to it.”
Proverbs 10:22 — God’s Word
Well, I’m sure this doesn’t mean ‘slough off and don’t care because God will do it all anyway’. But it does mean that all the running around stopping up holes is not the way to handle life. God sees, He knows what I need, He chooses to teach me through scarcity or He blesses. My part of the deal is to ask Him to cause things to go correctly, to ask for His blessing and to go out and do.
8/14/2020 — Exodus 31:3-5
“and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.”
Exodus 31:3-5 — English Standard Version
I’m thrilled to find this verse illuminating how God fills his people with skill and a passion for crafts. I’m not working in gold, silver and gems but “every craft” includes fabric and thread, right?
God gives the passion and the skills, we are called to use them for His glory.
8/13/2020 — John 15:8
“This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.”
John 15:8 — Message Bible
I get to feeling that if I’m not producing, if I don’t have something to show for my day (I love check-off lists) that I’ve let God down. That’s not true. The whole point is that GOD WORKS THROUGH ME! I’m not the one doing the glorifying, God is showing the world His glory through me!
So my only responsibility is to connect with God. “I am the vine, you are the branches.” A branch can only produces fruit when it is connected to God.
8/12/2020 — Proverbs 16:9
“A person may plan his own journey, but the LORD directs his steps.”
Proverbs 16:9 — God’s Word
What would I like to achieve, change, master in the rest of 2020.
Finishing three quilts by the end of the year. Make some more masks and send them to Takumi and Julieta. I want to get seriously into machine quilting. I want to learn more fonts and become comfortable with them for bullet journaling. I want to lose 2 kilos and/or tone up this body.
I don’t have places I want to go (well I want to get to Indiana, California, Morioka, go traveling with friends, attend church) but those are not things I can change the circumstances for).
I want to buy cushions, get rid of stuff. I want to take pictures.
So Lord. Direct me. Show me how to do the things I’d like to do. Help me to set up a plan, not just have vague wishes. Lead me. In Jesus’ name, Amen
8/11/2020 — Habakkuk 2:2
“Then the Lord told me: “I will give you my message in the form of a vision. Write it clearly enough to be read at a glance.”
Habakkuk 2:2 — Contemporary English Version
Another nudge for my Bullet Journaling. Visualize what God is saying to me. Improve my handwriting! (Well, maybe not...)
If I don’t have a vision, then I don’t have a direction... I’m too old for visions... my vision reaches to what dinner will be tonight. I don’t think that’s how God wants me to live.
My running goals... (is there such a thing?) to keep a clean, peaceful home. To make quilts I can give away. To draw closer to God. The only goal with a finish line is the one about quilts.
8/10/2020 — Acts 15:41
“...Every place they went, they left the church stronger and more encouraged than before.”
Acts 15:41 — The Passion Translation
Paul had a falling out with Barnabas and suddenly everyone’s plans were changed! Yet even so, God completed the work that had been started to strengthen churches.
Humans get in the way of themselves and do great damage. Even so, God turns everything around and makes those mistakes into blessings.
8/9/2020 — Luke 7:13
“When the Lord saw the grieving mother, his heart broke for her. With great tenderness he said to her, “Please don’t cry.””
Luke 7:13 — The Passion Translation
Jesus sees every tear that we cry. His heart breaks as mine does... for a struggling world, for missing my children, for stray animals, for helplessness.
He also makes everything right! In time, in His ways which are not my ways, in eternity.
Trust...hope...love
8/8/2020 — Luke 15:9-10
“When she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Let’s celebrate! I’ve found the coin that I lost.’ So I can guarantee that God’s angels are happy about one person who turns to God and changes the way he thinks and acts.””
Luke 15:9-10 — God’s Word
I tend to overlook this verse. In many translations it refers to sinners who repent. I blithely read it and think, “yes, well I’m a sinner who was found and I’ve repented and so let’s move on to more applicable verses.”
But I am forever a sinner and I can change my behavior on so many things... it’s not just a one shot deal!
“God, I want to be more positive, more hopeful. Keep me from being moody and self centered. Change me. Turn me from myself to others. Help me make my home one of peace and happiness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen”
8/7/2020 — Habakkuk 3:17-18
“Whatever happens, I will continue to thank the Lord. If there are no flowers on the fig trees, if there are no grapes on the vines, if there are no olives on the olive trees, if there are no crops in the fields, if the sheep are dying in the hills, if there are no cows on the farms, I will still sing to thank the Lord! I will be happy because God is the one who makes me safe.”
Habakkuk 3:17-18 — Easy English
I so hope I will be able to be the joyful follower when trouble rages around. Life is inconvenient now but I still find contentment. The world seems to be wobbling and scarcity and unrest look to be close behind.
I want to look to God. I want to carry on in joy and faith. I think I’m going to need the Holy Spirit’s power so much more in the next months and years.
8/6/2020 — 2 Kings 6:17
“Then he prayed, “ Lord, please help him to see.” And the Lord let the servant see that the hill was covered with fiery horses and flaming chariots all around Elisha.”
2 Kings 6:17 — Contemporary English Version
I am sometimes blinded by circumstances and only see the bad before me. This verse shows me how vital Christian friends can be who will pray for me to see a good future, to see God working in my life.
I am also reminded that I need to pray for others that they become aware of God working in their lives.
8/5/2020 — Exodus 33:19-20
“The Lord answered: All right. I am the Lord, and I show mercy and kindness to anyone I choose. I will let you see my glory and hear my holy name, but I won't let you see my face, because anyone who sees my face will die.”
Exodus 33:19-20 — Contemporary English Version
Moses made a request to God and God said yes. And then there was another request, not only that God be with them but also that Moses see God’s face.
And God said no. For good reason. But He also was gentle and understanding of Moses.
God says no sometimes. Not with a fire bolt but with love knowing that some things are just too big for us to take.
8/4/2020 — Isaiah 55:8
“The Lord says, ‘Remember! My thoughts are not the same as your thoughts. The way that you do things is not the same as the way that I do things.”
Isaiah 55:8 — Easy English Bible
I try to remember that the lucky coincidences in life are not lucky and not coincidences. They are choreographed by God.
When I come across the same word, a person’s name, a similar thought instead of being surprised by “chance” I remind myself that God is doing all deeds, directing all thoughts.
God is in control.
8/3/2020 — 1 Corinthians 2:9
“But it is just as the Scriptures say, “What God has planned for people who love him is more than eyes have seen or ears have heard. It has never even entered our minds!””
1 Corinthians 2:9 — Contemporary English Version
Think about it. I’ve put a lot of years into seeking God’s will. I’ve spent a lot of hours in Bible study, in praising.
These are my gifts to God who has prepared a wonderful eternity that I can’t even imagine!
Oh I think of my dancer friend now dancing joyfully beside God’s throne. I imagine my mother sitting with her parents. I hope that I will be surrounded by all my pets and animals..
But God is going to surprise me! I can only imagine...
8/2/2020 — Ephesians 6:12
“For our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
Ephesians 6:12 — Modern English Bible
Thinking of illness here, with the scripture of flesh and blood... in illness are we fighting viruses or cancer or old age or are we fighting the way satan destroys our joy, tempts is to doubt God’s love, feeds our own self-centeredness?
Even in illness, God is in control and is using the time to teach me dependence on Him. Determine to stand strong on the rock that He is with me, His goal is not my health but my abiding in Him.
8/1/2020 — Hebrews 10:36
“For you have need of patient endurance [to bear up under difficult circumstances without compromising], so that when you have carried out the will of God, you may receive and enjoy to the full what is promised.”
Hebrews 10:36 — Amplified Bible
God promises rewards! Just like training for an event might be hard, giving up before the goal robs me of fulfillment and joy.
Bear with the inconveniences of our sheltered down life. Stay rooted to God’s purposes for me... to love, to go about my daily life, to draw closer to God. The finish line might not be visible from this corner in my path but it is waiting for me!
7/31/2020 — Psalms 32:8
“You said to me, “I will point out the road that you should follow. I will be your teacher and watch over you.”
Psalms 32:8 — Contemporary English Version
God is not hiding His plans and His will from me. He is not expecting me to figure out life on my own. He gives me time to wait for Him to reveal all and throughout my life and experiences He has assured that I know His principles.
God points the path with His Word, with His daily messages (devotions), with the people He puts in my life, with His Spirit within me Who oversees my heart. And God promises to put me back on His path if I misread His signs. I can never be lost.
7/30/2020 — Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.”
Proverbs 3:5 —
Amplified
Even in the garden of Eden satan tricked Adam into wanting to have knowledge equal to God’s and today we’re still going around worshiping knowledge and wanting to know details and the why’s of everything.
“Why me? “What is God thinking?”
It is more important to trust than it is to know.
7/29/2020 — James 1:17
“Remember that every good gift comes to us from God. He only does what will help us. He is our Father in heaven. He made everything in the sky that gives us light. Those things do not give us the same light all the time. They change, but God does not change.”
James 1:17 — Easy English Bible
My word for 2020 is GIFT. I am committed to believing that everything God allows is a gift.
COVID-19 is a gift?
The struggles and hardships in life bring me to prayers and Bible reading. They strip away all the busyness and unnecessary. They direct me to depend on God.
That is my gift. God’s goal is not my comfort, it’s my character... God is molding me through all His situations.
7/28/2020 — Isaiah 64:4
“Since before time began no one has ever imagined, No ear heard, no eye seen, a God like you who works for those who wait for him. You meet those who happily do what is right, who keep a good memory of the way you work.”
Isaiah 64:4— Message Bible
I will remember all the good that God has done in my life and in the world. I will not ask for reasons why bad things happen (as if my knowing could make a difference). I will continue to do what I’m on earth to do and be content to wait for God’s answers and eternity when they come.
7/27/2020 — Deuteronomy 31:8
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.””
Deuteronomy 31:8 — New International Version
There are so many “nevers” in my thought process.
“God will never answer this prayer.”
“My life will never be the same.”
But God is a God of miracles. There is no “never” for Him except the “never” that He will NEVER leave me!
7/26/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 4:7
“God hasn’t invited us into a disorderly, unkempt life but into something holy and beautiful—as beautiful on the inside as the outside.”
1 Thessalonians 4:7 — Message Bible
The holiness of God means He is set apart to be revered. And the Bible tells us to be holy as God is holy which seems an impossibility.
I will remind myself in this period of sheltering down, that I am set apart to contemplate, to worship, to soften my heart to be more loving.
7/25/2020 — 2 Peter 3:11-13
“Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we’ll hardly notice. We’ll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness.”
2 Peter 3:11-13 — Message Bible
Lord, take away my unrest of yesterday. Give me a heart of love.
Yes, I want to lead a holy life free from bitterness and judgement and distrust. It is the balance of being forgiving and loving but at the same time not foolishly placing myself in the same situation to be burned again.
I love the image the we have nothing to fear at Jesus’ second coming. We will be facing away and looking hopefully at God’s new heaven and earth!
7/24/2020 — 1 Peter 5:3
“Don’t be controlling tyrants but lead others by your beautiful examples to the flock.”
1 Peter 5:3 — The Passion Translation
I am not even sure if the person I’m thinking of is in my care or not but I’d sure like to do a bit of controlling!! Right now I mostly feel angry...
But God says to NOT control, to trust Him to deal with the people who are irresponsible and unfair. My job is to be loving, to turn the other cheek and to encourage.
I can’t expect to change someone, only God can do that.
Help me Lord to be loving and take away this judgemental heart.
7/23/2020 — 2 Peter 1:5-8
“Do your best to improve your faith by adding goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. If you keep growing in this way, it will show that what you know about our Lord Jesus Christ has made your lives useful and meaningful.”
2 Peter 1:5-8 — Contemporary English Version
The purpose of my faith is not to get a ticket into heaven. It’s not even to keep me safe. I want my faith to be strong so that I am effective in God’s world. It means showing people the way to God. It means glorifying Him, myself and with others that I may lead.
Let me not forget that I’m not seeing God to gain knowledge or convince Him and others that I have it all together. It is to make myself useful to God.
7/22/2020 — Hebrews 12:8
“My dear child, don’t shrug off God’s discipline, but don’t be crushed by it either. It’s the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects. God is educating you; that’s why you must never drop out. He’s treating you as dear children...”
Hebrews 12:8 — Message Bible
I need to get it in my head that it is NOT a defeatist attitude to be accepting of hardships. Logic tells me life is being unfair but faith tells me that God has a plan.
I am learning. God is readying me, us, the world, for something. We are His dear children whom He loves.
7/21/2020 — Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13 — New International Version
The hope that God gives me doesn’t just end with me. It OVERFLOWS to others around me! Asking for hope or peace or faith for myself is asking God to put that quality before others. To cause others (not just help them) to be hopeful, at peace and faithful. What God wants in this world cannot be stopped!
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.” ― Mother Teresa
7/20/2020 — Philippians 2:15-16
“so that you may be blameless and pure, innocent children of God surrounded by people who are crooked and corrupt. Among these people you shine like stars in the world because you hold on to the word of life...”
Philippians 2:15-16 — Common English Bible
I live where the majority of the people I come into contact with are unbelievers. I’ve never been an effective evangelist but I go about my life with the hope (and prayer) that God’s light shines in my life. I hope (and pray) that my words, my attitude, my actions will be enough so that people will someday remember and think about seeking Jesus because they know I am a Christian.
7/19/2020 — Ephesians 4:12
“And their calling is to nurture and prepare all the holy believers to do their own works of ministry, and as they do this they will enlarge and build up the body of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:12 — The Passion Translation
“Their calling”, my calling, is to do the work that God has given me. I guess I see that as ‘encouraging’ people. As a wife, to encourage my husband. As a crosswalk guard, to keep the children safe and help them start the day off cheerfully. As a teacher... again to encourage enthusiasm about communication.
And also to prepare other believers for their own ministry... by encouraging word and example.
And God will use all these people to build up His family.
7/18/2020 — 2 Corinthians 1:4
“He always comes alongside us to comfort us in every suffering so that we can come alongside those who are in any painful trial. We can bring them this same comfort that God has poured out upon us.”
2 Corinthians 1:4 — The Passion Translation
If I count my problems and sadnesses they are there like red dots on my lifeline. But if I count my blessings and gratitude they make up that lifeline! Countless!!
I don’t like the trials and tribulations and it is hard to find meaning but the Bible says that they are there so that I can be blessed again by God and so that I can pass on those same blessings to others.
7/17/2020 — 1 Corinthians 15:58
“My dear friends, stand firm and don't be shaken. Always keep busy working for the Lord. You know that everything you do for him is worthwhile.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 — Contemporary English Version
Most of what I do, cleaning, cooking, walking the dog, sewing, seems like it is not really making much of a difference in God’s world.
I wonder how when the big picture of my life is displayed in heaven, what the different routines and activities are going to add to God’s art.
7/16/2020 — Romans 8:6
“The attitude that comes from selfishness leads to death, but the attitude that comes from the Spirit leads to life and peace.”
Romans 8:6 — Common English Bible
Two thoughts... what is living in the spirit? Is it the walking with God everyday? The connecting with Him and giving the day to Him that frees me?
And then, if living with the Spirit brings life and peace, then why don’t we (Christians, me specifically) live with a peaceful heart? I’m not NOT at peace but I’m not worry, confusion, anger free either.
Maybe the philosophical question is, would I have even LESS peace if I wasn’t already hanging onto God so tightly?
7/15/2020 — Acts 9:15
“The Lord said to him, “Go, because I have chosen him to serve me, to make my name known to Gentiles and kings and to the people of Israel.”
Acts 9:15 — Good News Translation
God chooses different people to do different jobs of His. He chose Paul with his background and strengths and weakness to broadly and vibrantly change the world and change history.
God chooses me also. I may not be a sweeping carpenter’s brush coloring life, but I am a small paintbrush adding dabs and detail in God’s painting of His plans.
7/14/2020 — John 13:35
“For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another, everyone will know that you’re my true followers.””
John 13:35 — The Passion Translation
It sure would be nice if I could witness to nonbelievers by pointing to the cross on my wall and then they’d recognize the truth of Jesus and arrive at salvation. But it doesn’t work that way...
God says that the proof of Jesus to others is seeing that we love one another. This probably means loving other’s who love Jesus and I already fail at that, but I’m sure loving non-Christians will shed light when hoping to be a witness.
Love is the way to everyone’s hearts.
7/13/2020 — Matthew 24:14
““Yet through it all, this joyful assurance of the realm of heaven’s kingdom will be proclaimed all over the world, providing every nation with a demonstration of the reality of God. And after this the end of this age will arrive.””
Matthew 24:14 — The Passion Translation
There is a block of time to prepare for the next stage of Corona. In my relatively safe daily life it would be prudent to buy (or make) more masks, get our bank account info in order, buy long term supplies.
God has given us a block of time to prepare for the end of the ages. And the instructions are to be ambassadors, lights on a hillside, a foretaste of what eternity with God means.
7/12/2020 — Matthew 6:26
““Look at all the birds—do you think they worry about their existence? They don’t plant or reap or store up food, yet your heavenly Father provides them each with food. Aren’t you much more valuable to your Father than they?”
Matthew 6:26 — The Passion Translation
We love sitting in our “sunroom” and watching the birds at our feeders. What joy it gives us to see them happy, rejoicing in the seeds they find there this new day!
Those birds aren’t concerned about whether seeds will be in the feeder. It took them awhile to find the feeder anyway! If there are no seeds they’ll go off and be happy when they find another source.
I, on the other hand, worry that the birds will be disappointed or not be able to find another source. My human ego thinks I am now responsible for the birds existence, but they got along without me before and God will supply them in other places.
I really need to take a lesson from God’s birds.
7/11/2020 — Jonah 4:1
“But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry.”
Jonah 4:1 — New International Version
I wonder... have I ever been angry at God? Well, I suppose I’ve resented Him.
“You PROMISED! I’m not going to trust You if You play around with my life!”
God is not surprised by my anger and He doesn’t punish because of my bad attitude. He comes looking for me and helps me start again.
7/10/2020 — Daniel 3:17-18
“The God we worship can save us from you and your flaming furnace. But even if he doesn't, we still won't worship your gods and the gold statue you have set up.””
Daniel 3:17-18 — Contemporary English Version
God will step in and save us... each of us believes that and place our faith on God’s promise of protection. Yet there are times when it seems God didn’t change the course of disaster... He is perfecting His plan for a time beyond what I can see.
I hope to hold fast to God no matter the immediate outcome.
7/9/2020 — Lamentations 5:21
“O LORD, bring us back to you, and we’ll come back. Give us back the life we had long ago,”
Lamentations 5:21 — God’s Word
Of course I wish life was like it had been 6 months ago... at least in the convenient ways. Air travel, no masks, freedom from worry about who I meet and where I go.
But God makes it plain that His children have to return to Him. If the way He does that is to upset the world system then so be it. He is still in control no matter that I see things as out of control.
7/8/2020 — Jeremiah 24:6
“I will watch over them for their own good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down. I will plant them and not uproot them.”
Jeremiah 24:6 — God’s Word
The setting for this verse is the exile and despair of God’s people. They had prayed for deliverance and here they were beaten and without hope.
But God says to wait for His plans. They were promised a bright future but better than that, God promised that He was watching over them even in their suffering.
We wonder why God is not acting. But He does promise our place in Eternity and He does promise to be with us as we live our lives now.
7/7/2020 — Song of Solomon 2:13
“Can you not discern this new day of destiny breaking forth around you? The early signs of my purposes and plans are bursting forth. The budding vines of new life are now blooming everywhere. The fragrance of their flowers whispers, “There is change in the air.” Arise, my love, my beautiful companion, and run with me to the higher place. For now is the time to arise and come away with me.”
Song of Songs 2:13 — The Passion Translation
I’m not sure I’ve got this right but every verse I read leads me to the expectation of the year of the Lord’s coming...
This verse has always been to me the herald of spring, of joy of tribulations ended yet the signs of the present are floods and earthquakes, rioting and epidemics.
Yet beyond that is God’s glorious fresh world. He is calling us to come away with Him.
7/6/2020 — Romans 8: 18, 23
“I am convinced that any suffering we endure is less than nothing compared to the magnitude of glory that is about to be unveiled within us.
And it’s not just creation. We who have already experienced the firstfruits of the Spirit also inwardly groan as we passionately long to experience our full status as God’s sons and daughters—including our physical bodies being transformed.”
Romans 8:18, 23 — The Passion Translation
It is easy to get caught up in the frenzy of the moment. What are we going to do about the pandemic? What is happening to the ecological imbalance of our earth? Where are the morals of the world as people riot against each other?
All of God’s plans point up to His glory. It is waiting for us, maybe not far off.
I look expectantly at meeting my Savior, either when He returns to take me or when He accepts my transition into His presence.
7/5/2020 — Deuteronomy 30:19-20
“I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Therefore choose life, that you may live, you and your descendants; to love Yahweh your God, to obey his voice, and to cling to him; for he is your life, and the length of your days...”
Deuteronomy 30:19-20 World English Bible
I know someone going through depression. I wonder if telling him that life is short and our time is not certain is more of an encouragement or a discouragement for him.
Choose life! Choose to treasure days given! Choose to make a difference! Choose to be mindful! Choose to be grateful! Choose God’s gift!
7/4/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:21
“But test all things carefully [so you can recognize what is good]. Hold firmly to that which is good.”
1 Thessalonians 5:21 — Amplified Bible
Making the right decision can affect our health these days... is it prudent to go the swimming pool? That restaurant? Is a face shield necessary?
God gives us challenges and choices but the Bible reminds us that we must seek God’s wisdom and use the experiences and principles He has already instilled in our lives to give good and godly lives.
7/3/2020 — 1 Kings 19:7
“The Lord 's angel returned and woke him up a second time, saying, “Get up and eat, or the trip will be too much for you.””
1 Kings 19:7 — Good News Translation
Practical advice for the hardships of life. Eat.
This is true for those in grief and people suffering from depression. Build up energy, become aware of tastes and aromas.
And Jesus says that He is the Bread of Life, the daily sustenance for the troubles of our lives.
7/2/2020 — 2 Samuel 15:26
“But if God says, ‘I’m not pleased with you,’ then I am ready. Let him do to me whatever pleases him.””
2 Samuel 15:26 — Common English Bible
How spiritual am I being when I ask God to do this for me, take away that pain, save me from another disappointment.
I want to be able to say, “Thy will be done”. “I accept God’s decision in everything... He knows best.”
7/1/2020 — John 16:33
“And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!””
John 16:33 — The Passion Translation
Though I’d like it to not be so... life isn’t fair. God isn’t even fair. There are Christians who are martyred, there are lukewarm believers who die with their blessings intact.
One stray animal gets picked up and lives a life of comfort, another dies in the street. All the unfairness of the world breaks my heart.
The end is only the end if you assume the story is about you.
This is not the end of the story. God’s glory awaits.
6/30/2020 — Judges 8:3
“Besides, God chose you to capture Raven and Wolf. I didn't do a thing compared to you. By the time Gideon had finished talking, the men of Ephraim had calmed down and were no longer angry with him.”
Judges 8:3 — Contemporary English Version
Gideon was able to change a potentially volatile situation and to keep the lines of communication open by his soft answer and attitude when confronted. My attitude and words can determine a relationship.
I want to be the peacemaker not the prideful know it all.
6/29/2020 — Hebrews 10:14
“By his one sacrifice he has forever set free from sin the people he brings to God.”
Hebrews 10:14 — Contemporary English Version
I have always disliked reading of the blood sacrifices in the Old Testament. What did the bull, the goat, the ram, the dove think about this?! Why was God unfair to them?!
I am grateful for our sake and animals’ sakes that the practice of sacrifices has been abolished though I know there is still uncountable unfairness in the world.
Thanks be to God that He loves all His creation and uses them for His glory.
6/28/2020 — Philippians 4:6
“Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.”
Philippians 4:6 — God’s Word
There are so many things that set my heart beating in worry.
“Lord! Don’t let this happen! I don’t like that!”
It seems to be all about me... even though God constantly tells me that He is good, that His plans do not revolve around me... His world is here to give HIM glory.
Thank You for being in control. In Jesus’ name. Amen
6/27/2020 — Hebrews 11:1
“To have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see.”
Hebrews 11:1 — Good News Translation
If I don’t have faith to take the first step that God has put before me, it is saying, “I don’t trust You.”
If I knew where every step was going to lead then it wouldn’t be a step of faith, but a posing stride of my own.
If I can’t be sure of my step be sure of God’s leadings.
6/26/2020 — Amos 5:24
“Justice must flow like torrents of water, righteous actions like a stream that never dries up.”
Amos 5:24 — New English Translation
This is what God says about the inequalities in our world today. We must learn to be fair, we must welcome all people, we must share, we must ask forgiveness and we must love.
The world must change and it must begin with me.
6/25/2020 — Ephesians 4:32
“But instead be kind and affectionate toward one another. Has God graciously forgiven you? Then graciously forgive one another in the depths of Christ’s love.”
Ephesians 4:32 — The Passion Translation
I have heard a term that makes me stop and think. “Structural privilege”. Is racism structural privilege? I am content with the privileges of my race, my place of birth, my English speaking abilities. But God gives blessing to be passed along.
Learn to be kind, to be generous, to have sympathy with others less fortunate and with a different starting point.
6/24/2020 — Ezra 9:6
“and said, “I am ashamed, my God. I am embarrassed to look at you. Our sins have piled up over our heads, and our guilt is so overwhelming that it reaches heaven.”
Ezra 9:6 — New English Translation
The Bible does stress to collective sin. It isn’t good enough to say,
“well, I didn’t hurt people. I don’t even like what is happening in the world. It is not my sin.”
The sin of humanity has been not caring about others, not stepping in to stop brutality, not being aware of injustices, of issues social and even environmental. As a part of this world I am guilty of the sin of thinking only of my self.
6/23/2020 — Psalms 51:12
“Let me again experience the joy of your deliverance! Sustain me by giving me the desire to obey!”
Psalms 51:12 — New English Translation
Lamenting is necessary when recognizing my sins and then stepping away from them. God shows me where I’ve gone wrong, I come to Him repenting and then He helps me to obey Him and not sin again.
I see my coldness toward the racial inequalities. I’ve asked for God’s forgiveness and now I’m depending on Him to adjust my thinking and to keep me in line with His love.
6/22/2020 — John 8:32
“and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.””
John 8:32 — New English Version
I have to admit that I tend to close my eyes rather than look deeply into the problems around me. I’m not proud of my attitude.
The issues of racial injustice has been in the news but I shield myself from the ugliness. This reminds me of the saying,
“If you’re not part of the solution you are part of the problem.”
I need to open my eyes to the truth of history, and to my own prejudices (no matter how much I think I am open-minded). I need God to show me how I should and can change.
6/21/2020 — Hebrews 4:16
“Therefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace whenever we need help.”
Hebrews 4:16 — New English Version
God says to come to Him not with doubts, not with second guessing, not with pessimism but with confidence! Expectation! Assurance! God does! God is! God will!
God is not my fall-to program when all my efforts fail. He needs to be first!
6/20/2020 — Matthew 14:22
“At once, Jesus made his disciples get into a boat and start back across the lake. But he stayed until he had sent the crowds away.”
Matthew 14:22 — Contemporary English Version
It makes me think... why didn’t Jesus just get in the boat with the disciples? Why send them ahead?
If Jesus is with me all the time, does He really send me ahead alone? Is it a test to show me how far my obedience will go if I think I’m on my own?
I know the end of the story, that Jesus walked on the water and Peter stepped out of the boat to go to Him. Can I step out of the fear of the pandemic to return to daily life or is that just foolhardy?
6/19/2020 — Proverbs 14:26
“Confidence and strength flood the hearts of the lovers of God who live in awe of him, and their devotion provides their children with a place of shelter and security.”
Proverbs 14:26 — The Passion Translation
First of all, I am a lover of God. I have the confidence of knowing where I’m going and Who is waiting there for me.
Second, I live my faith so that my family knows Who I worship and why.
God says that I have influenced my family by my faith to know where to seek their shelter.
Praise be to God!
6/18/2020 — Psalms 139:16
“but with your own eyes you saw my body being formed. Even before I was born, you had written in your book everything about me.”
Psalms 139:16 — Contemporary English Version
God has our lives planned and recorded in His book. He has already written my story.
I want to share this verse with Leiya. Her baby is growing, unknown to us whether it is a boy or a girl. But God knows and God has planned this new life with love and care.
Take joy in knowing that God is almighty!
6/17/2020 — Psalms 34:4
“Listen to my testimony: I cried to God in my distress and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears!”
Psalms 34:4 — The Passion Translation
I guess what we need to be freed from is not the situation but our fears.
Like my position in this pandemic, I’m not so much affected by the situation (thank you Lord) but by the fear of what MAY happen.
Realizing God’s presence and knowing that His angels stand guard removes much of my fear.
6/16/2020 — Psalms 91:15
“I will answer your cry for help every time you pray, and you will find and feel my presence even in your time of pressure and trouble...”
Psalms 91:15 — The Passion Translation
What more could I want? God promises to be attentive to me when I pour our my fears to Him. He isn’t going to make light of what I’m afraid of, He’s going to be there with me.
And He even says I will find and feel His presence when I draw near to Him.
Draw near to Him and He will draw near to me.
6/15/2020 — Psalms 91:14
“Because you love me, I will rescue you. I will protect you because you know my name.”
Psalms 91:14 — God’s Word
God’s clear message to me.
I love God so God will help me escape from problems.
God will protect me because I call to Him as the only true God. I know Who He is and what He can do.
6/14/2020 — Psalms 91:11-12
“God sends angels with special orders to protect you wherever you go, defending you from all harm. If you walk into a trap, they’ll be there for you and keep you from stumbling.”
Psalms 91:11-12 — The Passion Translation
It is nice to think that God has assigned angels to me... I’ve never given it much thought. The angels keep watch, they surround me, guarding me from...illness?
I’m supposing that the angels are supernatural beings but they may also be the people God sends into my life to help me. Am I also an angel assigned to help people?
6/13/2020 — Psalms 91:9-10
“The Lord Most High is your fortress. Run to him for safety, and no terrible disasters will strike you or your home.”
Psalms 91:9-10 — Contemporary English Version
God’s presence is my dwelling place, my second home, the place I return to to be loved and comforted and the place to relax. His presence protects me, His Word nourishes me, His Spirit comforts me, His love warms me. I find my peace relaxing where He is and my happiness in His joy.
6/12/2020 — Psalms 91:7
Today, I am thanking God for His promise to ME, His work in MY life, His plans for what I should do.
6/11/2020 — Psalms 91:5-6
The epidemic may surround me but God has my future planned.
6/10/2020 — Psalms 91:1-2
I am safe and comforted in God’s presence.
6/9/2020 — 2 Corinthians 4:17
So, just as the weekend’s problems have faded away, the larger, longer ones will seem as mist when I see them from eternity’s side.
6/8/2020 — Matthew 6:34
My children are safe and healthy. They are smart and positive and know to turn to God. Our lives are quiet. All the animals are good. There are so many blessings. Take one day at a time.
6/7/2020 — Joshua 1:9
Always and forever, He is near us.
6/6/2020 — Lamentations 3:21-23
On my own I would be anxious and in shadowed but because of God’s grace I am content today.
6/5/2020 — James 1:2-3
We will look back at today’s history as the turning point where God made the world better.
6/4/2020 — Psalms 118:6-7
My desire for my enemies? The people disrupting society, the people ignoring health warnings, the people choosing their own ways? I am much like them... I pray that all of us align ourselves under God.
6/3/2020 — Jeremiah 29:5-7
Make homes, plant a future, stay healthy, raise families, enjoy grandchildren. And pray. Pray for my town, my country and the world. Peace comes from being with God.
6/2/2020 — 2 Peter 1:5-6
To my faith, however small, add goodness. Just look around and find SOMETHING good. To goodness add knowledge. About...? A situation? About how God works? To knowledge add self control. I guess that means don’t fly off the handle, don’t try and solve the problem immediately. To self control add endurance. Don’t give up thinking good thoughts, seeing the situation from many sides, praying. And with the Spirit’s help a godly attitude will result. And I definitely need that!
6/1/2020 Ephesians 1:18
5/31/2020 — Malachi 3:3
I want to keep in mind the image of God the smelter sitting beside me carefully tending to me as my complaining, my self pity, my selfishness, my impatience burns away... a hard process but a necessary one for reflecting the purity of Christ in my life.
5/30/2020 — Isaiah 40:14
God may not be fair but He is good.
5/29/2020 — Ezra 4:4
5/28/2020 — 1 Samuel 7:12
I could name my new bullet journal Ebenezer a small monument to what God does in my life.
5/27/2020 — Lamentations 3:31-33
I don’t know what the plan is but I know we are all in God’s hands.
5/26/2020 — Matthew 16:24
5/25/2020 — Ephesians 5:1-2
5/24/2020 — Matthew 28:18-20
Maybe I need to rethink my attitude.
5/23/2020 — Acts 4:31
Creating a discipline of prayer may be my next step... How?
5/22/2010 — Acts 2:42
I suppose it would be nice to get my own crackers or cookies and milk or apple juice and have the pastor’s blessing over an odd online communion but until that happens I will mindfully consider Jesus’ act of love when eating my meals of rice and noodles and green tea.
5/21/2020 — Acts 2:44
For now, I am connected to other believers (well, my husband is here!) online. And we ARE connected and we DO share our thoughts and concerns and devotion. How grateful I am that I live in this cyber world able to connect so easily! I am not alone at all! Praise be to God!
5/20/2020 — 2 Timothy 3:17
God, speak to me in the snatches of Scripture that I read during this time with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/19/2020 — Acts 2:42
I am in a women’s group called “Devoted”. How do we stay as a group but stay apart? Considering each other, sharing our thoughts and concerns, praying, and being united in our devotion of God.
5/18/2020 — 1 Peter 2:9
Did I understand my assignment? Am I equipped? I am only a channel. God does the work.
5/17/2020 — Ephesians 1:21
In making choices and looking for guidance I will pray that God gives me a discerning heart.
5/16/2020 — Exodus 23:25
Lord, I know You love us and don’t want Your people to suffer. I know You can do what seems impossible. I know Your wisdom has reasons I cannot understand. From my weak position I ask that this virus be banished from our world, that we will appreciate the freedom and peace and blessings in our lives given by You. My prayer, Lord, Your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/15/2020 — Philippians 2:10
One day Jesus will be revealed and will reign whether we “agree” with the message or not.
5/14/2020 — James 1:12
5/13/2020 — 1 Timothy 2:2
Lord, the leaders of the world are right now making decision that will affect our health and safety and comfort in the days and months and future to come. Give them wisdom to aid You in Your work with as little suffering to those who heed their laws and advice. Help this world to work together globally to find a cure, so give economic relief, to provide a godly future to generations beyond. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/12/2020 — Isaiah 40:8
5/11/2020 — Matthew 4:20
My security does not rest on my pension, or a job. It rests on following Jesus, daily, hourly, for wisdom and guidance in our post Covid life. The disciples never lacked. Neither will I.
5/10/2020 — Hebrews 4:14, 16
Hold firm to what I know to be true. Come close to God asking for the gifts of peace, protection and faith.
5/9/2020 — Romans 9:2-3
5/8/2020 — Mark 1:35
God, if You wish for more of me, change my heart to desire You more. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/7/2020 — Matthew 4:75/6/2020 — James 2:14
“My brothers and sisters, if people say they have faith, but do nothing, their faith is worth nothing. Can faith like that save them?”
How do I show my faith during this pandemic?
5/5/2020 — Matthew 6:19
Pray. Not use up valuable medical care by becoming ill myself. Stay smiling. Purchase from places that need help...
5/4/2020 — John 14:1
Trusting that God’s promises will come true.
5/3/2020 — Matthew 26:39
I too, want to be aligned and think that the materialism, the selfishness, the desire for independence has passed... that I will center myself in God. This is the lesson He wants me to learn, that He wants his lost children to learn. May we all seek His will every day and every way.
5/2/2020 — Genesis 50:20
5/1/2020 — Romans 8:35,37
Some of these things I can answer “no”, I will not be separated. Some of these things I answer, “Lord, be it not so.” And then if I can not stay close to Him, He will not let me go. We will not be separated and it is not my strength that will keep me close. It is God promising to be with me through it all.
4/30/2020 — Ephesians 1:11
Leave it to God. He decides if I will continue on my mission on earth or will be needed in heaven. He has never promised that we will understand in this life.
4/29/2020 — 1 Samuel 2:2-3
4/28/2020 — Psalms 119:152
So I’m going to do what I like to do today, sew! I’m not going to think too far into the future and instead let God take me where He wishes. I’m not going to overthink the what ifs. I’m going to sing along to gospel music! I’m going to clean a bit, cook a bit, study a bit, (Duolingo), get a little exercise, and do more sewing!
4/27/2020 — James 4:14-15
I am not in control. God decides what I do and IF I’ll do it! If He decides I will live, great! I have things I’d like Him to put in my agenda. If God decides I die, well okay. He knows best. He will put nothing in my life that I can’t take. He is God and in love I accept His decisions.
4/26/2020 — Psalms 46:1
Hope for protection, home for good, hope for unity, hope for purpose, hope for strength, hope for peace, hope for guidance, hope for eternity.
4/25/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:10-11
4/24/2020 — Psalms 46:1
God is protecting. He is giving strength and calm when human policies fail. He is my salvation.
4/23/2020 — Isaiah 40:6-8
Praise the Lord for all His blessings.
4/22/2020 — Matthew 8:3
4/21/2020 — Psalms 122:1
4/20/2020 — 2 Corinthians 9:13
How do I practice service when I’m not meeting anyone?
4/19/2020 — James 1:27
Keep safe, stay at home, protect ourselves while protecting others.
4/18/2020 — Psalms 103:2
This Corona shows me how my life depends on others. Thank You Lord for all who make up my world.
4/17/2020 — Proverbs 22:6
I’ll sit back and wait.
4/16/2020 — 1 Timothy 6:17
4/15/2020 — Psalms 90:12-14
Tomorrow will be another gift or it will be a reunion in heaven.
4/14/2020 — Acts 4:28
We can only ask for guidance and strength and a trusting heart. I am small against nature and history and God. He has a plan.
4/13/2020 — Hebrews 4:14-16
The world has lived through pandemics and disasters before and God has always established us again. I live to serve God or I die to be with Him in heaven.
4/12/2020 — Romans 9:2-3
4/11/2020 — Mark 1:35
Get out of the phone. Get off the TV. Put limits on my information seeking. Start craving the simple quiet times that God has gifted me.
4/10/2020 — Matthew 4:7
There is a fine line between faith and foolishness.
4/9/2020 — James 2:14
Julie Fukuda’s church had this poem in their newsletter that she forwarded to me.
4/8/2020 — Matthew 7:12
Anyway, keep smiling and spread some cheer around.
4/7/2020 — 2 Corinthians 13:5-9
4/6/2020 — Philippians 4:6-7
Lord, give me peace in the midst of panic. In Jesus’ name. Amen
4/5/2020 — Roman’s 8:28
Thank You for taking my part when I don’t feel I can do it myself. In Jesus’ name, Amen
4/3/2020 — Proverbs 12:25
4/2/2020 — 2 Timothy 1:7
God’s power, the Spirit’s guidance and love are keeping me safe.
4/1/2020 — Proverbs 12:25
3/31/2020 — Matthew 6:27
Lord, help me ADD to my life! In Jesus’ name, Amen
3/30/2020 — Joshua 4:21-24
I want to leave milestones for the future to see.
3/28/2020 — Psalms 27:13
God has done miracles in the past. Do it again, Lord. God had changed people’s hearts. Do it again, Lord. God has healed the sick. Do it again, Lord. God has redeemed the world. Do it again, Lord. God has given me hope and joy and peace. Do it again, Lord.
3/27/2020 — 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
3/26/2020 — Jude:1-2
3/25/2020 — Mark 4:37-40
Emmanuel , God is with us!
3/24/2020 — Matthew 5:14-16
I hope that’s enough. Many people may fall into despair and I pray that I stay strong and courageous. And one reason for standing strong is to be a light for others to find and make their way to the hope I have in Jesus.
3/23/2020 — Acts 2:46
It is a relief and joy for all of us to be together understanding each other’s thoughts and pursuing God’s will and purpose with the same prayers and faith.
3/22/2020 — 2 Timothy 1:7
3/21/2020 — Hebrews 10:25
Be cheerful, give a smile, show solidarity.
3/20/2020 — Matthew 6:11
3/19/2020 — 1 Peter 2:19
Again and again I come back to the thought that ANYTHING that brings us closer to God is a gift to us. The desire to be comforted by hymns and praise music, the time to contemplate what is important and to “get right with God”, the prayers given and received, the realization that life is short and a life of plenty isn’t ensured. All of these are gifts that sharpen my awareness of Him.
3/18/2020 — Timothy 3:11
3/16/2020 — Ecclesiastes 7:1
I was present at my mother’s passing and it wasn’t joyful (to me) and I didn’t see any great peace on her face either. Just at birth we may not look our best, at death too our faces may not reflect the joyous occasion but I still claim the promise.
3/15/2020 — James 1:17
God is good. God cares. God is in control. And any situation that brings us to God is a gift from Him to us... moving closer to God.
3/14/2020 — Ecclesiastes 9:7-9
Yes, there is! We are healthy! We have lots to do at home! We have been relieved of worrying about old parents and young children. Both Takumi and Leiya have spouses (nearly, in Takumi’s case) who will share their joys and their concerns. We are content. Great news!
3/13/2020 — Proverbs 8:34
3/12/2020 — Proverbs 4:23
3/11/2020 — Proverbs 3:21-23
God is not a God of fear but of hope. Satan uses fear to grab hold of God’s people. I claim God’s love and I know all things work for good.
3/10/2020 — Proverbs 2:2
And how much of my training have I passed onto my children? Have they learned to trust God. To be patient. To seek joy?
3/9/2020 — Proverbs 16:9
“Within your heart you can make plans for your future, but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there.”
Proverbs 16:9 — The Passion Translation
We make our plans.
“We’re going to Mexico in May. We’re going to participate in our son’s fantastic wedding. We’re going to meet Julieta’s family. We are going to celebrate.”
Actually... God might be saying,
“My will is that You wait faithfully, knowing I have the best for you.”
That might not include Mexico (at least not inMa). That might mean we miss Takumi’s wedding, but our attendance is secondary to his start with Julieta and God at the start of their life. God’s plans may mean we meet Julieta’s family at another time.
And heaven knows! We can ALWAYS celebrate!! So many blessings God gives us. So much protection... so much comfort and love!
Wait. Wait. Wait. Trust. Trust. Trust.
3/8/2020 — Psalms 37:19, 39
3/7/2020 — Proverbs 13:25
If I turn my mind to what is lacking I will be upset. If I focus on the blessings I have I will be joyful!
3/6/2020 — Matthew 6:21
“For your heart will always pursue what you value as your treasure.”
Matthew 6:21 - The Passion Translation
This works both ways... my heart is where my treasure is. My treasure is where my heart is.
I can tell what my treasure is by how I spend my time... with family? Shopping? Sewing?
But I can also tell what’s important to me by how I spend my treasure... wow... we seem to spend a lot of money on eating out! I spent more on my animals last month than I did on my health...
Another good chance to check my priorities.
3/5/2020 — Luke 12:15
3/4/2020 — 1 Timothy 6:11
I want to lead a simpler life not controlled by accumulating more and more. I want clutter out and meaningfulness in. I need the courage to throw out and give things up. What is it that I really need and love?
3/3/2020 — Psalms 131:1-3
My head spins! Slow down! Don’t work yourself into a panic about things that are only in God’s control! Trust and wait and rest.
3/2/2020 — Ecclesiastes 4:6
Lord, keep my eyes on the positive, keep my trust in You strong. In Jesus’ name, amen.
3/1/2020 — Psalms 63:2
I’ve always believed that living the same life in upset as well as peace is admirable. I don’t think I’ll change today’s schedule for a “what if” scenario.
2/27/2020 — John 14:31
2/26/2020 — Luke 18:7
How do I keep aware of God’s presence in my life? The answer is actually simple. Pray day and night. Talk to Him about everything. Thank Him, praise Him, consult Him. God is interested in my life and my feelings and He loves me.
2/25/2020 — Colossians 3:17
2/21/2020 — Revelation 5:8
2/19/2020 — Psalms 51:1-2
Forgive me father for my self-centeredness. Forgive me for judging who is worthy of my prayers and concerns, for seeing myself always in the right, for not loving people as God has loved me. I still don’t know how far to reach out but I know You want me to stop thinking only if myself. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Teach me what You want me to do and be. In Jesus’ name. Amen
2/17/2020 — 1 Kings 19:11
Pause is His presence. Selah.
2/16/2020 — John 10:27
Do I recognize God’s voice? He may not speak to me in a voice I hear, but don’t I hear Him in the comments of my friends that resound in me. Or I might underline a line in a book, or something clicks on a TV program. I think those are God’s voice. They are the Easter eggs, the treasure hunt rewards that glimmer in daily life. With my heart turned to God I catch more and more of His messages scattered throughout my life.
2/15/202 — 2 Corinthians 3:16
2/14/2020 — Psalms 62:1
Lord, help me to learn to wait on You. I pride myself of never having my hands empty but is that really a virtue. Teach me to be silent with You and to bring You into my non-silent day. In Jesus’ name. Amen
2/13/2020 — Matthew 14:35
2/12/2020 — Exodus 32:14
Interceding prayer has power and though God has the whole picture our prayers do matter to Him.
2/11/2020 — 2 Chronicles 7: 14
God, my small prayer I know You hear. I pray for this world that we’ve polluted and ravaged and taken for granted. I know there are efforts that we can make to support the environment but You alone have the power to heal. Please take my confession of sin, my request for forgiveness, my turning to You, along with my prayer and add it to the millions who live on this earth You created for our pleasure and sustenance. In Jesus’ name, Amen
2/10/2020 — Luke 18:8
Wow, that’s about as simple and easy to remember as one can get!
2/8/2020 — Mark 10:52
Praying (asking) establishes my relationship to God, my faith in Him and acknowledges that I recognize my own intentions.
2/7/2020 — 1 Chronicles 16:25
Do not forget God’s holiness. Do not forget that even as “my Father”, He is also “Hallowed be Thy name”. Familiar but at the same time sovereign.
2/6/2020 — Matthew 6:9
God my Father, is loving, forgiving, good, caring, joyful when I approach Him, willing to listen, quick to comfort. And this is how I should strive to be with others who will see God through me.
2/5/2020 — Psalms 46:10
Lord, I desire to spend time with You and hear You. Help me to BE a prayer warrior not just DO some praying. In Jesus’ name, Amen
2/4/2020 — Matthew 6:11
Forgive me Lord for my audacity. Thank you for all my undeserved blessings. Help me put aside my self importance to spend time with You. In Jesus’ name.
2/3/2020 — Matthew 6:5
I really need You Lord to help me with praying. In Jesus’ name. Amen
2/2/2020 — Matthew 6:6
2/1/2020 — Luke 11:1
Lord, please teach me, guide me, walk with me and let me hear Your voice. In Jesus’ name, Amen
1/31/2020 — Zechariah 4:10
The Bible says what is seen and what seems are not always the truth. God continues to build, to use me, to do His will. There will be a day when His people are rewarded and rejoice with Him.
1/29/2020 — 1 Corinthians 10:13
1/28/2020 — Philippians 3:12
1/27/2020 — Hebrews 10:24
God made people to NEED each other. As I get older it is easy to want to pare down the connections I have with others just because it is too much trouble to be social. I keep reminding myself that God have me this life to be a helper to others so if it comes to a choice, I’m going to choose being with people!
1/26/2020 — Romans 7:15
I think my perception of myself is failing. I think of myself as a half-hearted, good intentioned, rat-race running housewife when really I should see myself as a daughter of God, a person with the Holy Spirit directing and guiding and cheering me on!
1/25/2020 — Isaiah 49:6
God calls me (us) to be lights... my only consolation is that He didn’t say “alarms” and a light is a rather quiet essence, allowing the lost to follow it or to go deeper into darkness. I’ve always hoped the quiet light of my life is enough for God’s commandment.
1/23/2020 — Mark 8:35
Sorry so say but that type of help doesn’t take a whole lot of “giving up my life...”
1/22/2020 — Philippians 4:17
The same goes for other people. When I allow them to help me, with their time, their efforts, their money, I am helping them to gain rewards too! Of course they need to know where the investment is banked which is all the more reason to direct them to Jesus!
1/18/2020 — Philippians 4:14
I want to be generous but I don’t want to be taken advantaged of.
1/17/2020 — Philippians 4:6-7
Thank God. Thanking Him tells Him I trust Him and I love Him. It might even put an end to my cycle of worry-pray-deep breath. And besides, everyone likes to be thanked.
1/16/2020 — Psalms 147:7
My praise, my thankfulness is directed at God. It is for Him. It lifts me up and focuses my heart on God’s goodness. Why am I different in the midst of others?
1/15/2020 — Habakkuk 3:2
1/14/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
1/12/2020 — 1 Corinthians 1:10
As a couple or maybe in any relationship, we have to be committed to continuance and we have to put in time for communication.
1/11/2020 — Psalms 15:4
1/10/2020 — Philippians 2:4
Why am I so stingy with the very things that God gives me freely?
1/9/2020 — Philippians 1:21
Living for Christ means I focus my life on Him, though it is so easy to look in other directions. And when I go to heaven I’ll be in His presence which means I will always be before Him!
1/8/2020 — Philippians 1:22-26
1/7/2020 — Philippians 1:19
“This will lead to my deliverance.” The result is always being in perfect harmony with God’s plan and only good can come from God!
1/6/2020 — Philippians 1:17
I do not have to get myself worked up when I don’t have someone’s approval. If I know I am doing my best in alignment with God’s will, then I will just have to ignore other people trying to drag me down. Does that sound cold? On the other hand, worrying about my ratings with someone who doesn’t approve is just a waste of my energy.
1/5/2020 — Philippians 1:12
Should I mind if I am only a minor, disposable character? My constant prayer is to be useful to God until He sees fit to use me in heaven.
1/4/2020 — Philippians 4:8
What are other ways of filling my mind with goodness?
1/3/2020 — Romans 8:32
Lord, please bestow on my a generous, giving, loving heart. You put me on this earth to serve. Help me to GRACIOUSLY serve my SIL showing her Your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen
My first gift from God this year? My SIL?
1/2/2020 — 1 Peter 5:7
Which course will I choose?
1/1/2020 — Philippians 2:18
“You will not be harmed, though thousands fall all around you.”
Psalms 91:7 — Contemporary English Version
A question mark forms over this verse for me. Am I supposed to be happy that others are suffering and dying but God promises me protection? What about all those poor people?
Thinking of what God is doing in other people could be Satan‘a tactic to take my gratitude about what God is doing for me.
Peter asked Jesus, “what about that man?” And Jesus answered “I’m telling YOU to follow me.”
6/11/2020 — Psalms 91:5-6
“You do not need to fear terrors of the night, arrows that fly during the day, plagues that roam the dark, epidemics that strike at noon.”
Psalms 91:5-6 —. God’s Word
There is no need to fear. God is for me. It is an easy lesson to remember but not so easy to do.
One way to keep fear at bay is to stay close to God. Reading His Word gives me courage. Praying lets the Holy Spirit talk to me in quietness.
6/10/2020 — Psalms 91:1-2
“Living in the Most High’s shelter, camping in the Almighty’s shade, I say to the LORD, “You are my refuge, my stronghold! You are my God—the one I trust!””
Psalms 91:1-2 — Common English Bible
I am sheltering down because of Corona but I want to remember that I am always sheltering down in God. Distancing myself from viruses will keep me healthy and distancing myself from negativity and sin will keep me at peace.
6/9/2020 — 2 Corinthians 4:17
“These little troubles are getting us ready for an eternal glory that will make all our troubles seem like nothing.”
2 Corinthians 4:17 — Contemporary English Version
The problems we have are not eternal. Some of them only last the weekend! But at the time life feels dark and unreliable.
Some problems last longer... weeks, months, years, but compared to eternity the bearing up with them is a short span.
6/8/2020 — Matthew 6:34
““Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”
Matthew 6:34 — Message Bible
Focus on today. Praise God for today. Health, peace, sunny days, birdsong. Yes there are problems in the future but worrying about them doesn’t change anything.
6/7/2020 — Joshua 1:9
“I repeat, be strong and brave! Don’t be afraid and don’t panic, for I, the LORD your God, am with you in all you do.””
Joshua 1:9 — New English Translation
A jolt to my daughter and son-in-law’s plans. Their lives are upset.
Oh God, please guide them and help them find Your path for them.
I believe that God is with them. And me.
6/6/2020 — Lamentations 3:21-23
“Then I remember something that fills me with hope. The Lord 's kindness never fails! If he had not been merciful, we would have been destroyed. The Lord can always be trusted to show mercy each morning.”
Lamentations 3:21-23 — Contemporary English Version
We enjoyed the songs of the birds this morning. They remind us that the day is fresh and new and wonderful things may happen.
God is kind. He supplies our needs, He gives us a new day to color with our attitudes. He has blessed us before, He promises to do so again.
6/5/2020 — James 1:2-3
“My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up power within you to endure all things.”
James (Jacob) 1:2-3 The Passion Translation
When I am weak, He is strong. Can I think of sheltering down as an opportunity for joy? Yes... it has been an awareness of the joy that is there and an acceptance of limitations.
How about the worldwide demonstrations? Can there be any joy in all of it? On the other side more of a commitment to work together perhaps. That would be joyful!
6/4/2020 — Psalms 118:6-7
“The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The LORD is for me among those who help me; Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me.”
Psalms 118:6-7 — New King James Version
With a world in confusion it seems like there is danger and disaster at the door. But God is for me! So many times in the Bible that promise is there.
God is with me when I cannot see Him but He is also with me in the people He uses to help me! God is in all His children, guiding and helping and protecting us.
6/3/2020 — Jeremiah 29:5-7
“‘Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there and do not decrease [in number]. Seek peace and well-being for the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf; for in its peace (well-being) you will have peace.’”
Jeremiah 29:5-7 Amplified Bible
This is the story of God’s people living in exile for 70 years. Though false prophets promised a return to normal life, Jeremiah told it straight. God’s people would not have the freedom they wished for... BUT God wanted them to go about their lives!
6/2/2020 — 2 Peter 1:5-6
“For this very reason do your best to add goodness to your faith; to your goodness add knowledge; to your knowledge add self-control; to your self-control add endurance; to your endurance add godliness;”
2 Peter 1:5-6 — Good News Translation
God has given us a step by step method to following His ways.
6/1/2020 Ephesians 1:18
“I ask that your minds may be opened to see his light, so that you will know what is the hope to which he has called you, how rich are the wonderful blessings he promises his people,”
Ephesians 1:18 — Good News Translation
It seems the world is falling apart. The pandemic, the economic crisis, now the rioting over police brutality.
I begin to worry about my family but I know my response should be prayer.
Lord, calm people’s angry, fearful hearts. Turn them from violence to working together. Your eternity is near. Help us all greet it with hope and expectation. Help me, Lord to be willing to bow to Your purpose and plan. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/31/2020 — Malachi 3:3
“He will sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver. He will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. They will belong to the LORD, presenting a righteous offering.”
Malachi 3:3 — Common English Bible
5/30/2020 — Isaiah 40:14
“Has the Lord ever needed anyone’s advice? Does he need instruction about what is good? Did someone teach him what is right or show him the path of justice?”
Isaiah 40:14 — New Living Translation
Where in the Bible does it say God is fair?
I might complain that it isn’t fair for someone to die young, or it’s not fair that people have lost their jobs. It’s not even fair that I was born and now live in a prosperous country, or that I had parents who loved me while others in the world have the challenges of poverty or abusive homes...
The Bible does say that God is just.
Fairness is my human viewpoint from being only aware of my narrow situations, my short timeline, my limited knowledge.
Only God sees the whole picture. Only God has the whole plan.
5/29/2020 — Ezra 4:4
“Then the peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building.”
Ezra 4:4 — New International Version
Discouragement is a tool of Satan. He uses situations and sometimes people to make us question the goodness around us.
I read the news and I am discouraged by the world, by the trends, by the economy, by the pandemic. It’s enough to make me want to cover my head and renounce society! (Which may be the tactics of the media). At any rate, I’m certainly not comforted and encouraged!
My response is to turn off the TV, skip over the sad stories, but I should probably have a go-to prayer or Bible verse.
“Now may the Lord Jesus Christ and our Father God, who loved us and in his wonderful grace gave us eternal comfort and a beautiful hope that cannot fail, encourage your hearts and inspire you with strength to always do and speak what is good and beautiful in his eyes.”
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 — The Passion Translation 5/28/2020 — 1 Samuel 7:12
“Then Samuel took a stone, set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and said, “The Lord has helped us all the way”—and he named it “Stone of Help.””
1 Samuel 7:12 — Good News Translation
Samuel names his stone of help, “Ebenezer” and he set it to remind him of all that God has done in his life.
Recording what God does for me is Biblical. A rainbow was set for Noah, tablets were given to Moses, Jesus told us to remember with communion.
How am I going to remember God’s work in my life? A cross on my wall, a cross around my neck.
Actually I’ve been nudged lately to start Bullet Journaling, a recording of what I need to do, what is going on, what I might have accomplished, daily delights. And my time with God?
I am afraid to start because I am afraid I’ll fail.
5/27/2020 — Lamentations 3:31-33
“...the Master won’t ever walk out and fail to return. If he works severely, he also works tenderly. His stockpiles of loyal love are immense. He takes no pleasure in making life hard, in throwing roadblocks in the way:”
Lamentations 3:31-33 — Message Bible
God has never promised to let me know why He does things but He has promised to love me and work His plans for good.
Problems arrive and God is distressed at my fear and worry and pain but He also knows what my future is.
5/26/2020 — Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples: If any of you want to be my followers, you must forget about yourself. You must take up your cross and follow me.”
Matthew 16:24 — Contemporary English Version
Being a Christian means obeying God. “Just do it” as Nike says... or “when should I act? Act now!” (That was from a Japanese TV commentator “ Ima desho!”)
It sounds easy but it isn’t. Might I add that for all the choices resulting in actions in our lives we should also say “Jesus, help me.”
God is always ready to provide help.
5/25/2020 — Ephesians 5:1-2
“Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.”
Ephesians 5:1 — Message Bible
It really is simple. Learn from watching God.
What does God do? He loves.
What should I do? Love.
How do I learn? By spending time with God.
5/24/2020 — Matthew 28:18-20
“...Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.””
Matthew 28:18-20 — Message Bible
It is so easy to blur this commission from Jesus.
“Well, people don’t want to be trained.” “I’m hardly a disciple myself. I’m not able to make new disciples.” “I’m in Japan trying to live a witnessing life. It’s up to You, God! (And remember the last time I tried bringing someone to Christ and that backfired? My heart was too broken!)”
But the commission still stands. To make a difference in my community. Which right now is my neighborhood. Which I have a good relationship with. But whose Home Owners’ Association I dislike and try to distance myself...
5/23/2020 — Acts 4:31
“And when they had prayed, the place where they were meeting together was shaken [a sign of God’s presence]; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness and courage.”
Acts 4:31 — Amplified Bible
I confess my prayer habits are very haphazard. It is not a JOY to sit and pray. I put the blame on God because I don’t see results but mainly I put the blame on myself because praying hasn’t become a discipline.
Do I respect people who have a centered prayer life? Definitely. Do I want God to communicate with me? Of course. If I saw results would I pray more? Probably. Is my current quiet time with God not enough? I suspect so.
5/22/2010 — Acts 2:42
“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper ), and to prayer.”
Acts of the Apostles 2:42 — New Living Translation
It just occurred to me that we haven’t had communion in awhile. When the congregation is sheltering down this celebration is hard (harder) to follow.
Or is it? Isn’t every meal an opportunity to remember Jesus and the giving of His life for us? Communion doesn’t have to be bread and wine does it?
5/21/2020 — Acts 2:44
“All the believers were together and shared everything.”
Acts 2:44 — New Century Version
As a sheltering down believer these verses make me sigh and wonder how literal I should take them... meeting together, sharing our food, going from house to house. This may be the Bible’s picture of the future or of my eternal relationships.
5/20/2020 — 2 Timothy 3:17
“that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.”
2 Timothy 3:17 — New English Translation
With the Scriptures in my heart and mind, God teaches me and directs me and gives me all I need to meet the day.
Is my morning devotion enough of God’s nourishment? I don’t feel I get as much from long “studies” of the Bible, but maybe I’m just lazy.
5/19/2020 — Acts 2:42
“Every believer was faithfully devoted to following the teachings of the apostles. Their hearts were mutually linked to one another, sharing communion and coming together regularly for prayer.”
Acts 2:42 — The Passion Translation
Being devoted... it is how I spend my time, where I rest my thoughts.
I am devoted to God’s Word but I am also devoted to God’s people and that means spending time with them and for them.
But right now we are not spending time together... does that lessen my devotion? No . I am devoted to my children yet I rarely get to spend time with them. But I think of them constantly, I pray for them, I imagine their daily lives. So devotion doesn’t just mean being together. The link is there even if it is not physical.
5/18/2020 — 1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people who are God’s own possession. You have become this people so that you may speak of the wonderful acts of the one who called you out of darkness into his amazing light.”
1 Peter 2:9 — Common English Bible
The Bible keeps telling me I am special, chosen, precious, loved... I don’t feel that way but it is a truth I choose to believe.
As a chosen ambassador I’ve been sent on a mission to tell of God’s love and protection and promises. I’m not just here to seek my own peace.
5/17/2020 — Ephesians 1:21
“He is far above all rulers, authorities, powers, lords, and all other names that can be named, not only in this present world but also in the world to come.”
Ephesians 1:21 — God’s Word
Jesus has more knowledge and power than anyone person or organization in the world.
I read about whether we are going to listen to the government or the World Health Organization. If this governor’s plans are better than that one’s. If this commentator has insight I should follow or someone else.
The bottom line is that God knows all, God controls all, God decides all, God will be here when all the others are gone.
5/16/2020 — Exodus 23:25
“If you worship me, the LORD your God, I will bless you with food and water and take away all your illnesses.”
Exodus 23:25 — Good
News Bible
God has the power to take away this pandemic. Not expecting Him to do so... well, I’m relying on my human logic. God wants us to go to Him with expectation and just praying what I think is likely for Him to do sounds very feeble...
5/15/2020 — Philippians 2:10
“...Everything and everyone will one day submit to this name—in the heavenly realm, in the earthly realm, and in the demonic realm.”
Philippians 2:10 — The Passion Translation
I have a friend who came so close to accepting Jesus but she suddenly realized the message that unless one believed they couldn’t be saved and she “balked”. She felt she couldn’t believe a religion that didn’t accept her unbelieving parents.
Even though my friend didn’t like it, it doesn’t change the truth and one day she and all creation will know that Jesus is Lord of all.
There was a lot I could have said if she’d wanted to pursue her dissatisfaction, but she didn’t. Why did she assume her parents could never believe? She could have been the door that opened Jesus to them.
5/14/2020 — James 1:12
“If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life’s difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God!”
James (Jacob) 1:12 — The Passion Translation
I think we can define this pandemic as a life difficulty. And it is easy to be blasé because maybe it’s not even a difficulty for me yet. It is still an inconvenience.
I need to keep my faith strong as the situation changes hopefully not for the worse. I don’t want my faith to be tested but I do want to be able to stand firm. God knows what I can and cannot endure. I’m praying that He will protect but also that He will give me strength.
5/13/2020 — 1 Timothy 2:2
“And pray for every political leader and representative, so that we would be able to live tranquil, undisturbed lives, as we worship the awe-inspiring God with pure hearts.”
1 Timothy 2:2 — The Passion Translation
Yes, I pray for a peace filled heart for myself during this pandemic. And yes, I pray for the protection of my loved ones.
The Bible says to pray for our leaders, that means even the ones we don’t particularly agree with.
5/12/2020 — Isaiah 40:8
“Flowers and grass fade away, but what our God has said will never change.”
Isaiah 40:8 — Contemporary English Version
Everyday the news changes. Good news. “There are less Corona patients!” Bad news. “The virus is coming back double fold in the fall.” And depending on which news programs we watch, the tone of the news changes... “Everything is under control.” or “Such and such a country is to blame!”
What to believe? What is true?
God’s Word, what He says to me today, what He’s said to me in the Bible, it never changes and it is 100% truth. I take hold of God’s promise of love, and doing the best for me and my loved ones.
5/11/2020 — Matthew 4:20
“They left their nets immediately and followed him.”
Matthew 4:20 — New English Translation
The disciples who followed Jesus were leaving jobs that were secure to go to unknown places and do things they weren’t used to. But they followed.
Times are strange now and jobs are no longer secure. As far as I can tell, our physical future rests on a pension and not a job (good). But will the government be able to provide pensions while giving out massive amounts of unemployment checks is another question.
5/10/2020 — Hebrews 4:14, 16
“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
Hebrews 4:14, 16 — New Living Testament
In good times I have believed that all things will work for my good, that God will protect and will provide. That God will give me peace, take away fear, stay beside me.
Why in uncertain times do I doubt this? He has not changed... only circumstances. He is a God who is all powerful, all loving, and keeps His promises.
5/9/2020 — Romans 9:2-3
“I have great sorrow and always feel much sadness. I wish I could help my Jewish brothers and sisters, my people. I would even wish that I were cursed and cut off from Christ if that would help them.”
Romans 9:2-3 — New Century Version
I’m not sure sorrowful is the term, though the Bible says it should be, but I have concern about my Japanese brothers and sisters who do not know Jesus. We are living in a situation when any of us could be called home to God, yet most of my Japanese friends don’t know Jesus.
Is it my lack of witnessing? I have never been pushy... to lax?
God, only You can change a person’s heart. Only You know who is in Your book of eternal life. I ask You to include her... and her... and her... and her... and her... and him... and all those that I love but have not reached.
In Jesus’ name. Amen 5/8/2020 — Mark 1:35
“In the morning, long before sunrise, Jesus went to a place where he could be alone to pray.”
Mark 1:35 — God’s Word
I have alone time now... or as alone as can be with only two people at home. It is rather nice... to have a routine, to mark things off my To-do list and feel the day has been profitable.
I’ve heard the recommendations to lessen screen time, but I don’t think I’m particularly dependent on the internet and social networks.
I don’t sit down to pray in my alone time but I do take time to reflect on God’s message for each day.
5/7/2020 — Matthew 4:75/6/2020 — James 2:14
“Jesus answered him, “It also says in the Scriptures, ‘Do not test the Lord your God.’ ””
Matthew 4:7 — New Century Version
It is easy to think,
“Well, God, You can do anything so why don’t You end the Corona virus with a miracle? You’re not acting very god-like with all this suffering going on!”
But isn’t that much like Satan who tested Jesus in the wilderness by suggesting He could throw Himself off a cliff and call in angels?
We are not to question what God’s wisdom and actions are. We are to live in the situation with faith and expectancy.
“My brothers and sisters, if people say they have faith, but do nothing, their faith is worth nothing. Can faith like that save them?”
James 2:14 — New Century Version
I feel like I’m doing nothing during this pandemic. It’s not like I was out spreading the gospel before the pandemic but I seemed to justify that if I met people and conveyed a positive, godly lifestyle and people knew I was Christian, then I was witnessing “without words.” Maybe that means I was witnessing without deeds also...
But now I’m not meeting people... how do I show faith with deeds? Donate? Stay connected to issues and support financially? Send uplifting emails and messages? (I am rather bad at this... the social networking groups I belong to I try to ignore... I dislike all the “chatting” that goes on at all hours of the day and night.
5/5/2020 — Matthew 6:19
““Don’t keep hoarding for yourselves earthly treasures that can be stolen by thieves. Material wealth eventually rusts, decays, and loses its value.”
Matthew 6:19 — The Passion Translation
God has given me material things to use to make my life more enjoyable, to use to help others. I’m not supposed to go stockpiling during this pandemic. I should trust that God will supply all my needs when they arise.
How can I help someone today? I don’t know anyone who needs extra toilet paper or who would want me to go shopping for them (and honestly speaking, I’m on the older generation end anyway). What can I do?
5/4/2020 — John 14:1
““Don’t worry or surrender to your fear. For you’ve believed in God, now trust and believe in me also.”
John 14:1 — The Passion Translation
Fear? Not yet, I hope never. Worry? Yes. I try to return to prayer every time worry sneaks in but before I know it I’m fretting about something again. Will we ever see our kids again? Are they safe and healthy and have an income?
For ourselves, we have tasks to do, nature to enjoy, a pension coming in. Our lives are inconvenienced but I am adjusting. I’m trying to learn how to depend on God, how to be meaningful when I meet and serve no one.
5/3/2020 — Matthew 26:39
“Then he walked a short distance away, and overcome with grief, he threw himself facedown on the ground and prayed, “My Father, if there is any way you can deliver me from this suffering, please take it from me. Yet what I want is not important, for I only desire to fulfill your plan for me.” Then an angel from heaven appeared to strengthen him.”
Matthew 26:39 — The Passion Translation
I think we are all praying this. “Hurry Lord. Heal us, save us, relieve our suffering.” But even Jesus prayed this, yet He knew that He wanted to be aligned to God’s will.
5/2/2020 — Genesis 50:20
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Genesis 50:20 — New International Version
Satan intended to destroy this world and kill millions of people with this virus. God intended to bring His loved ones back to Him, to change our way of thinking, to save our world from ourselves. He isn’t turning something that is going bad into something good. He MEANT to use this situation, He INTENDED to use the Covid19 to bring about His plans. Nothing is changing for Him, nothing is surprising to Him. He knows, He meant, He intended. He is doing something great even at this moment and I am witnessing it by living in these times.
5/1/2020 — Romans 8:35,37
“What will separate us from the love Christ has for us? Can trouble, distress, persecution, hunger, nakedness, danger, or violent death separate us from his love?
The one who loves us gives us an overwhelming victory in all these difficulties.”
Romans 8:35, 37 — God’s Word
What will separate me from God? Will a lock-down? Worry? Inconvenience? A pandemic? Falling ill to Corona? Losing a loved one? Losing my life?
4/30/2020 — Ephesians 1:11
“All things are done according to God's plan and decision; and God chose us to be his own people in union with Christ because of his own purpose, based on what he had decided from the very beginning.”
Ephesians 1:11 — Good News Translation
God is not surprised by the Corona virus pandemic. He has allowed things like this before in history, hHe is allowing it again. There is some lesson to learn, some purification, some opportunity.
4/29/2020 — 1 Samuel 2:2-3
“Nothing and no one is holy like GOD, no rock mountain like our God. Don’t dare talk pretentiously— not a word of boasting, ever! For GOD knows what’s going on. He takes the measure of everything that happens.”
1 Samuel 2:2-3 — Message Bible
I sure don’t like this pandemic and I sometimes catch myself wondering what God has in mind.
That is rather arrogant thinking. How dare I question God’s plan and His way of doing it.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” — Corrie Ten Boom
Trust. Trust. Trust. The Lord is my Rock.
“Long ago I learned about your instructions; you made them to last forever.”
Psalm 119:152 — Good News Translation
What are God’s instructions to me today?
To enjoy my life. To give Him control. To not worry. To make a joyful noise. To use my time wisely.
4/27/2020 — James 4:14-15
“But you don’t have a clue what tomorrow may bring. For your fleeting life is but a warm breath of air that is visible in the cold only for a moment and then vanishes! Instead you should say, “Our tomorrows are in the Lord’s hands and if he is willing we will live life to its fullest and do this or that.””
James (Jacob) 4:14-15 — The Passion Translation
I had made plans. To
attend Takumi’s wedding. To explore Mexico. To work until I’m 70. To make so and so many quilts.
4/26/2020 — Psalms 46:1
“And now, God, I’m left with one conclusion: my only hope is to hope in you alone!”
Psalms 39:7 — The Passion Translation
I’m not just putting my hope on the afterlife. I know where I’m going. Though hope is focused on the future, hope gives me cheer and purpose for today.
4/25/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:10-11
“He died for us so that, whether we are awake in this life or asleep in death, we will live together with him. Therefore, encourage each other and strengthen one another as you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:10-11— God’s Word
Right now we hear a lot of numbers. How many people have contracted the Corona virus. How many people have died. What percentage of the population will be economically affected. How much the stimulus checks will be. What the ages are of people most likely to be in danger... and on and on...
But there is certainty... certainty that God is love and the I will be with Him whether I live or die.
This is the good news... that in two weeks, two months, two years, in the rest of my life and into eternity, I am living with God and He is living with me!
4/24/2020 — Psalms 46:1
“God is our protection and our strength. He always helps in times of trouble.”
Psalms 46:1 — New Century Version
God is here. I need Him, He helps. He knows. He cares.
4/23/2020 — Isaiah 40:6-8
These people are nothing but grass, their love fragile as wildflowers. The grass withers, the wildflowers fade, if GOD so much as puffs on them. Aren’t these people just so much grass? True, the grass withers and the wildflowers fade, but our God’s Word stands firm and forever.
Isaiah 40:6-8 — Message Bible
As things change daily the freedom that we had, entertainment, education, health can no longer be relied upon. Where I once figured I’d live in comfort until I’m in my eighties, I am now reminded that life might be temporary. And more precious than I’d assumed.
Things fade away but God’s promises don’t. I will always be loved. I will always be protected. I will always have eternity with God.
4/22/2020 — Matthew 8:3
“Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man and said, “I will. Be healed!” And immediately the man was healed from his disease.”
Matthew 8:3 — New Century Version
I don’t think Jesus would have practiced social distancing. In a time when culture dictated that people with leprosy should be kept apart, Jesus leaned in to touch.
I don’t lean in. But then again I have no training to heal either.
The people in the medical field are Jesus’ hands daily. They comfort and treat and soothe and put their lives on the line...
Jesus acting in people’s lives.
4/21/2020 — Psalms 122:1
“I was overjoyed when they said, “Let’s go up to the house of the Lord.””
Psalms 122:1 — The Passion Translation
I love going to church, being welcomed by other believers, joining my voice to all the others praising the Lord. I am envious of the occasional person that I get a sideways glimpse of who stands in uncontrolled worship, the urge I have to join others lifting my hands in prayer.
I attend services now online but I miss the gathering. The family.
I imagine the day when this pandemic is over and we are called together again.
“Let’s go up to the house of the Lord!”
4/20/2020 — 2 Corinthians 9:13
“It is a proof of your faith. Many people will praise God because you obey the Good News of Christ—the gospel you say you believe—and because you freely share with them and with all others.”
2 Corinthians 9:13 — New Century Version
Being generous is the key... to learning to be grateful. To showing people God’s love. To expressing my faith to God.
The question is how. What do I have to share?
Time. Fabric. Cheer.
4/19/2020 — James 1:27
“True devotion, the kind that is pure and faultless before God the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their difficulties and to keep the world from contaminating us.”
James 1:27 — Common English Bible
Wow! That translation, taken literally, is really for our time and circumstances.
Think of others during this time. Help people when I can. Who?
4/18/2020 — Psalms 103:2
“Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.”
Psalms 103:2 — New Living Testament
I hope I’m going a heart of thanksgiving.
Thankful for the people working in the stores, thankful for the police and fire department at he ready. Thankful for the farmers. For the doctors and nurses. For the researchers. For the politicians!
4/17/2020 — Proverbs 22:6
“Dedicate your children to God and point them in the way that they should go, and the values they’ve learned from you will be with them for life.”
Proverbs 22:6 — The Passion Translation
No children in the home. I’m not influencing them much anymore.
I reflect on how I raised my kids... we were way too busy! And ironically, way too busy with church! I think I pushed them away rather then teaching the where their future is.
But... they were dedicated. And they were pointed in God’s direction. I wonder what values they learned and which ones they just shook their heads at...
4/16/2020 — 1 Timothy 6:17
“Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.”
1 Timothy 6:17 — New Living Testament
I could say that I am one of the rich in the world. We own a house. We put our kids through school. We have savings and a pension.
I could also say that I am healthy. I maintain an adequate amount of exercise, I consider our diet. I’m not dependent on medication and the ones we do take are readily available.
But if I’m putting my trust in my finance (the economy is shaking) or my health (this invisible virus finds people suddenly) then I’m going to be disappointed. God supplies both. They are both just blessings given to me to enjoy my life. Thank you, Lord.
4/15/2020 — Psalms 90:12-14
“Teach us to use wisely all the time we have. Help us, Lord! Don't wait! Pity your servants. When morning comes, let your love satisfy all our needs. Then we can celebrate and be glad for what time we have left.”
Psalms 90:12-14 — Contemporary English Version
Yes, a blessing of this pandemic for me is to learn how important my time is... what am I doing with my time if there is actually not that much left of it?
Life has never been on such a precipice before. I wonder if we will be here next year, next month, next week. It all depends on how careful I am about my health... it all depends on God’s mercy.
So, I try to wisely use my time... making things, cooking good meals, being cheerful. I praise God for the awakening of a new day and I thank Him for carrying me through till the night falls.
4/14/2020 — Acts 4:28
“They gathered to do everything that you by your power and will had already decided would happen.”
Acts 4:28 — Good News Bible
God has everything under control and He is not surprised by anything.
He knew of the Corona pandemic and He knows the outcome. He has put us in it to be of use to Him.
4/13/2020 — Hebrews 4:14-16
“So then, we must cling in faith to all we know to be true. For we have a magnificent King-Priest, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who rose into the heavenly realm for us, and now sympathizes with us in our frailty. He understands humanity, for as a Man, our magnificent King-Priest was tempted in every way just as we are, and conquered sin. So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to
strengthen us in our time of weakness.”
Hebrews 4:14-16
Did Jesus live through isolation? Fear? Illness? An uncertain future? Of course He did. He lived in a time when children died before their first birthday, when there weren’t medicines and hospitals. Where the average life span was... what?
We are so used to long life, advanced medicine and technologies so when they are taken away we feel that God is being unfair.
And the great mystery is that Jesus understands my frustration and worry and backsliding!!!
Be grateful for what I have. Find good in what is left. Choose joy!
4/12/2020 — Romans 9:2-3
“when I say how great is my sorrow, how endless the pain in my heart for my people, my own flesh and blood! For their sake I could wish that I myself were under God's curse
and separated from Christ.”
Romans 9:2-3 — Good News Translation
What is the worse that could come about? The suffering of my husband, my children? What if we come down with this dreaded disease. If we lose our lives?
I know where I’m going. I know where Tetsu’s going. I’m pretty sure about my children and their spouses but as my circle of friends and family expands I’m not sure they will be in heaven with me. For that matter I know many good friends who won’t!
It doesn’t matter what I know or don’t know. I pray that all of us will use this time to consider our eternal destination. I am frantic for my loved ones and me to be together with God forever.
4/11/2020 — Mark 1:35
“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.”
Mark 1:35 — English Standard Version
All the busy frantic times when I couldn’t find time to have a devotion time or pray and now I’ve got all this time and still don’t make a very big block of time. It is obviously my mindset and not time that is the hindrance.
My mind recently has been overloaded by this dang phone and iPad. I’ve turned into a news junkie!
4/10/2020 — Matthew 4:7
“Jesus answered, “The Scriptures also say, ‘Don't try to test the Lord your God!’ ””
Matthew 4:7 — Contemporary English Version
Though I know God CAN protect and perform a miracle, that is no reason to act foolishly in regard to my own safety. I am guilty of testing God if I decide to go out and visit with friends or whatever even though wisdom tells me to stay home.
4/9/2020 — James 2:14
“My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people say they have faith but do nothing to show it? Claiming to have faith can’t save anyone, can it?”
James 2:14 — Common English Bible
How do I show my faith while I am sheltering down?
I always come back to... staying cheerful... praying for people and the world... being grateful for the blessings around me. It’s pretty basic but these days we are all down to basics.
4/8/2020 — Matthew 7:12
““Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God’s Law and Prophets and this is what you get.”
Matthew 7:12 — Message Bible
What would I like people to do for me?
I’d like my kids to contact me daily with a picture of their smiling faces!!
As for the people around me? Yes, I’d like smiles... I’d like encouraging messages... I’d like ideas for simple meals!! Better yet simple meals themselves!!
So what should I do?
Keep posting/emailing/messaging my friends and family telling them that we’re okay and that we are praying for them, for us, for the world.
I don’t know about simple menu ideas... I doubt my neighbors want any sample of my meals.
4/7/2020 — 2 Corinthians 13:5-9
“Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay, that Jesus Christ is in you. Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it. I hope the test won’t show that we have failed...We don’t just put up with our limitations; we celebrate them, and then go on to celebrate every strength, every triumph of the truth in you. We pray hard that it will all come together in your lives.”
2 Corinthians 13:5-9 — Message Bible
Check what fears I have concerning if it is take away from me.
My children.
My husband.
My health.
My animals.
My savings.
My friends.
Those are the things most valuable to me. Have I given God control over all or am I still worrying about them, trying to keep them safe?
They are all safest with God. He knows that I depend on them. He knows how devastated I will be if they are taken.
Thank you Lord for this time of reflecting on my life and what is important. Help me to live with the constant knowledge that you are in me and those I love, that You hold all of us in Your hand.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
“Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.”
Philippians 4:6-7 — Common English Version
The “how to” of gaining peace. Prayer, thankfulness, and the knowing that I belong to God.
Peace will control my words and actions and of course my emotions.
God is near and He hears my continual prayer whether I vocalize it or not.
4/5/2020 — Roman’s 8:28
“Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”
Romans 8:26-28 — Message Bible
I try to be positive, to be strong in faith, to live each day separate from the future. I want to “enjoy” the quietness of the world’s sheltering down.
But, especially in the evenings, the fears return or my nights are interrupted by bad dreams. Something is going on subconsciously.
At those times I feel guilty about my doubts, my defeatist attitude to prayer. My body becomes tired and my irritations show themselves when there has never been a more important time to be loving!
This verse reminds me that the Holy Spirit is praying in my place. He is interceding where my own brain has slowed down. He is in me and alongside me, turning my thoughts and doubts into pure eloquent prayers.
4/3/2020 — Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”
Proverbs 12:25 — English Standard Version
Some good words that made me glad:
Pandemic
What if you thought of it
as the Jews consider the Sabbath—
the most sacred of times?
Cease from travel.
Cease from buying and selling.
Give up, just for now,
on trying to make the world
different than it is.
Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life.
Center down.
And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.
(You could hardly deny it now.)
Know that our lives
are in one another’s hands.
(Surely, that has come clear.)
Do not reach out your hands.
Reach out your heart.
Reach out your words.
Reach out all the tendrils
of compassion that move, invisibly,
where we cannot touch.
Promise this world your love–
for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
so long as we all shall live.
Lynn Ungar
March 2020 4/2/2020 — 2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
II Timothy 1:7 — New King James Version
Everyday I wonder if I’m making the right choices. Should I be sanitizing my house more? Should I go to that supermarket? Is it safe to meet up with this friend?
Life is simpler in some ways yet I still question what I do and think.
Are my kids safe today? (They were yesterday). Is staying at home constantly running my emotional health down? ( yes, but I’d better find another way to boost my emotional health!)
Fear seems to be creeping closer.
But God has given me the Holy Spirit who helps me make sound decisions. I’ve been led to decide to do whatever. I’m not tossed around by the storms of life.
4/1/2020 — Proverbs 12:25
“A person’s anxiety will weigh him down, but an encouraging word makes him joyful.”
Proverbs 12:25 — God’s Word
Truly I can’t think of any time in modern history that is causing so much anxiety. There is so much out of control and whereas I once assumed smarter people than me were going to figure out what to do, it seems that even as a whole humanity can’t control all circumstances.
I can only let God control my heart. (I can’t even say ‘I can only control my heart.’ I can’t!)
An encouraging word from my husband, TO my husband! Between friends. The lyrics to praise songs. The promises of God’s Word.
Trying to add joy daily.
“So, which one of you by worrying could add anything to your life?”
Matthew 6:27 — The Passion Translation
I know that worry does no good. As some translations say, it doesn’t add a moment to our lives, it doesn’t add a cubit to our space, it doesn’t add any height, width, or weight... except in my heart. My heart definitely becomes heavy.
Why purposely lessen my joy and my peace? Burying my head in the sand isn’t a great response but praying, preparing and hoping are all God given measures for dealing with anxiety.
I can add some music (praise!), some beauty (today nature is lovely, and some love (the cats’ purring is comforting).
3/30/2020 — Joshua 4:21-24
“He told the Israelites, “When your children someday ask their fathers, ‘What do these stones represent?’ explain to your children, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan River on dry ground.’ For the LORD your God dried up the water of the Jordan before you while you crossed over. It was just like when the LORD your God dried up the Red Sea before us while we crossed it. He has done this so all the nations of the earth might recognize the LORD’s power and so you might always obey the LORD your God.””
Joshua 4:21-24 — New English Translation
If nothing else, can we learn from this situation? Can we learn how important it is to work together? Can we learn that we are actually connected by every person on this earth? Can we learn how much family means to us? Can we learn how our choices in leaders affects our lives?
Can we tell of the peace coming from knowing God’s eternity is our destination?
3/28/2020 — Psalms 27:13
“Yet I totally trust you to rescue me one more time, so that I can see once again how good you are while I’m still alive!”
Psalms 27:13 — The Passion Translation
Max Lucado expressed a prayer this week titled”Do it again, Lord.”
3/27/2020 — 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“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. So I’m not defeated by my weakness, but delighted! For when I feel my weakness and endure mistreatment—when I’m surrounded with troubles on every side and face persecution because of my love for Christ—I am made yet stronger. For my weakness becomes a portal to God’s power.”
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 — The Passion Translation
C.A.L.M
Celebrate - celebrate God’s presence and love and control over all throughout this pandemic.
Ask - Ask for healing of those sick, of the world. Ask for protection over friends and family. Ask for freedom from fear for all of us.
Leave it - Leave the problems for God to handle. There is nothing my worry will help. I do not have the knowledge or the power to tackle the world.
Meditate - Meditate on what is good, on the truths I know of God, on His will for me daily.
In my rushed life I have been given this gift of time to find joy (celebrate), to spend time in prayer (ask), to acknowledge God as Lord of all (leave it), and to contemplate my life and my relationship with God and with others (meditate).
3/26/2020 — Jude:1-2
“I, Jude, am a slave to Jesus Christ and brother to James, writing to those loved by God the Father, called and kept safe by Jesus Christ. Relax, everything’s going to be all right; rest, everything’s coming together; open your hearts, love is on the way!”
Jude 1:1-2 — Message Bible
We ARE loved by God. That truth doesn’t change with circumstances. We ARE protected by Jesus Christ. Our lives, our inheritance, our eternal home is ready and waiting... no economic crisis will touch that.
Everything doesn’t seem all right but it is all right with God. If not so, He wouldn’t allow it.
“Do not look forward to what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father will take care of you tomorrow and everyday. Either He will shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations, and say continually: ‘The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart has trusted in Him and I am helped. he is not only with me... but in me... and I in Him.’”
—St. Francis de Sales
3/25/2020 — Mark 4:37-40
“Suddenly, as they were crossing the lake, a ferocious tempest arose, with violent winds and waves that were crashing into the boat until it was all but swamped. But Jesus was calmly sleeping in the stern, resting on a cushion. So they shook him awake, saying, “Teacher, don’t you even care that we are all about to die!” Fully awake, he rebuked the storm and shouted to the sea, “Hush! Calm down!” All at once the wind stopped howling and the water became perfectly calm. Then he turned to his disciples and said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Haven’t you learned to trust yet?””
Mark 4:37-40 — The Passion Translation
I do feel that I have found myself in a sudden storm that there is no human way to escape.
I do feel afraid in the last hours before slipping into sleep.
I do wonder why God isn’t banishing the sickness and suffering.
I do repent for having doubts, thinking primarily of my family and myself.
I wonder if God is asleep but I know He never slumbers. I wonder if God cares but I know He is a God who loves each and every one of us. I wonder if He is above it all only checking occasionally to rate my trust levels, BUT I KNOW HE IS WITH ME IN THIS VERY ROOM CARING ABOUT MY HEART AND MY QUESTIONS.
3/24/2020 — Matthew 5:14-16
“...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
As I feel in my heart, the Bible tells me not to hide out in my house with a spirit of fear, but instead to shine brightly!
Now how to do that? Be open. Find ways to help people. Be cheerful. Keep praying. Be confident in God’s control.
3/23/2020 — Acts 2:46
“Day after day they met together in the temple. They broke bread together in different homes and shared their food happily and freely,”
Acts 2:46 — Contemporary English Version
Yesterday we went to church to worship and remember God’s Words of hope.
Afterwards we went back to our very good friends’ house for lunch and laughter and a confirmation of the same concerns and strategies and visions for the future.
3/22/2020 — 2 Timothy 1:7
“For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.”
2 Timothy 1:7 — The Passion Translation
This daily influx of bad news and panic is bad for my heart... for ALL of us! I notice at night my mind goes to all the horrible “what if’s”. Fear is creeping closer.
But God is not a God of fear. I know that He is the God of hope and goodness!
I don’t think I can banish fear on my own but God has already given me the Holy Spirit who comforts, and teaches, and reminds me of God’s power and Word.
Rely on the Holy Spirit to intercede, to guide, to help my heart, to give me peace.
3/21/2020 — Hebrews 10:25
“This is not the time to pull away and neglect meeting together, as some have formed the habit of doing. In fact, we should come together even more frequently, eager to encourage and urge each other onward as we anticipate that day dawning.”
Hebrews 10:25 — The Passion Translation
Why is my mind set right now on “what viruses I might unwittingly transmit.”? On all the things that are contagious out in the world and the bad that can so easily be given to others?
There is the Good News that I can transmit! Whether it is as contagious as a virus or not I don’t know but keeping it locked down at home is definitely NOT going to allow it to spread!
My answer for today’s prayer is that I WILL go out... I will not lead a “protected” life. I am protected at any rate by God. And I’m not trying to be glib, ignoring the crisis because of a good luck charm of God on my side. My soul is protected and the mission is to still go out into the world.
3/20/2020 — Matthew 6:11
“Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil. For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen.’”
Matthew 6:13
God is with me in the storms of life. He comforts. He is present. He offers wisdom. He gives hope. He promises joy forever. He rescues when I can do nothing on my own.
3/19/2020 — 1 Peter 2:19
“God is pleased if a person is aware of him while enduring the pains of unjust suffering.”
1 Peter 2:19 — God’s Word
Whether the times are unjust or not is still a question, but at any rate, people are suffering physically, mentally, emotionally. We are living through strange times that are out of our control.
3/18/2020 — Timothy 3:11
“In the same way, women who are servants in the church should be dignified and not gossip. They should be sober and faithful in everything they do.”
1 Timothy 3:11 — Common English Bible
I guess this could mean that as a woman of God I shouldn’t be spreading
fear and rumor about the world’s situation now. Stand firm that God knows what He is doing and lead the type of life I’ve always lived. 3/16/2020 — Ecclesiastes 7:1
“A good name is better than fine perfume; and the day of death better than the day of one’s birth.”
Ecclesiastes 7:1 — World English Bible
Wow... this verse sort of stops me in my tracks. I never really noticed those last words, and what do they mean anyway?
What do I want to be remembered for? That I was faithful to Christ to the end and that He was faithful to me. I want to go out of this world with joy, knowing I will be meeting God face to face.
3/15/2020 — James 1:17
“Every good gift, every perfect gift, comes from above. These gifts come down from the Father, the creator of the heavenly lights, in whose character there is no change at all.”
James 1:17 — Common English Bible
I’ve got my “gift” word in this verse today!
Everything is changing. Circumstances, plans, emotions! I don’t know what to do or which way to turn! I question the decisions I make minutes after I make them... I find it hard to control my irritations over small things unrelated to the virus and health.
BUT GOD DOESN’T CHANGE!!!
His goodness, His omnipotence, His omniscience, His love doesn’t change.
3/14/2020 — Ecclesiastes 9:7-9
“So be happy and enjoy eating and drinking! God decided long ago that this is what you should do. Dress up, comb your hair, and look your best. Life is short, and you love your wife, so enjoy being with her. This is what you are supposed to do as you struggle through life on this earth.”
Ecclesiastes 9:7-9 — Contemporary English Version
God’s commandment to me for these days of worry and uncertainty.
I’m going to cook a good meal tonight! I’m going to put on a shirt that makes me feel pretty! I’m going to look at pretty photos we’ve taken with Tetsu. I’m going to sew today and teach a young friend tatting.
Leiya called this morning and was sighing about all the distressing news in the world.
“Isn’t there any good news?”
3/13/2020 — Proverbs 8:34
“If you wait at wisdom’s doorway, longing to hear a word for every day, joy will break forth within you as you listen for what I’ll say.”
Proverbs 8:34 — The Passion Translation
Wait. That’s what God says and that’s what we seem to be doing.
I’m not going to sit twiddling my fingers... I’m waiting positively. I’m telling God what my desires are but trying to be accepting. I’m choosing joy daily.
3/12/2020 — Proverbs 4:23
“Carefully guard your thoughts because they are the source of true life.”
Proverbs 4:23 — Contemporary English Version
We are concerned with what a long term self isolation/economic decline/health challenges, is going to do to the hearts and minds of ourselves and people all over the world...
Depression is a strong possibility and while physical health needs to be safeguarded, so does mental health.
We spent an enjoyable time with two other couples last night and that was very uplifting. A good dinner out, lots of laughter...
How do I protect my heart? By focusing on God’s promises. By saturating myself in praise music. By being purposeful...
10000 steps a day! 40 laps at the pool twice a week! 1800 millimeters of water daily! Morning devotion time! 15 minutes of sewing! Twice daily Duolingo study!
It keeps me busy. My self prescribed goals keep my mind focused on short term progress... Do they keep me positive? I’m not sure yet.
3/11/2020 — Proverbs 3:21-23
“My child, use common sense and sound judgment! Always keep them in mind. They will help you to live a long and beautiful life. You will walk safely and never stumble;”
Proverbs 3:21-23 — Contemporary English Version
In our strategy to avoid coming down with the Corona virus, it is easy to get panicked and neurotic.
“Should I hide out at home? Should I be sanitizing all surfaces? Should I be stockpiling my house?”
God says to use wisdom and principles to guide my actions.
I know to wash my hands. I know to avoid crowds...
I know to eat sensibly, get sleep and exercise, avoid stress.
And I know that God is for me, that He has already established His plans, that He hears my prayers.
3/10/2020 — Proverbs 2:2
“So train your heart to listen when I speak and open your spirit wide to expand your discernment— then pass it on to your sons and daughters.”
Proverbs 2:2 — The Passion Translation
I sort of wonder if I’m too late to start training my heart to listen to God’s speaking. Or maybe I’m still “in training” and haven’t mastered the skill.
Do I know what God is telling me to do? The generals I get. He is telling me to trust. He is telling me to consult Him before making decisions. He is telling me to count my blessings.
I’m NOT sure however about the daily instructions. Does God want me to stay quietly at home? Does he want me to act boldly and carry on as usual?
3/9/2020 — Proverbs 16:9
“Within your heart you can make plans for your future, but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there.”
Proverbs 16:9 — The Passion Translation
We make our plans.
“We’re going to Mexico in May. We’re going to participate in our son’s fantastic wedding. We’re going to meet Julieta’s family. We are going to celebrate.”
Actually... God might be saying,
“My will is that You wait faithfully, knowing I have the best for you.”
That might not include Mexico (at least not inMa). That might mean we miss Takumi’s wedding, but our attendance is secondary to his start with Julieta and God at the start of their life. God’s plans may mean we meet Julieta’s family at another time.
And heaven knows! We can ALWAYS celebrate!! So many blessings God gives us. So much protection... so much comfort and love!
Wait. Wait. Wait. Trust. Trust. Trust.
3/8/2020 — Psalms 37:19, 39
“Even in a time of disaster he will watch over them, and they will always have more than enough no matter what happens.
But the Lord will be the Savior of all who love him. Even in their time of trouble God will live in them as strength.”
Psalms 37:19, 39 — The Passion Translation
Another week gone and I am again wondering about attending church today.
Our lives are filled with uncertainty. Are we going to get to Takumi’s wedding in two months? Is the wedding even going to be held? Should we huddle down at home for two months hoping to avoid the virus?
How smart is it to go out? How foolish is it to become depressed in darkness?
Right now I think my heart needs the lifting of a time of praise and prayer with others, focusing on God, wrapped in love and God’s presence.
I don’t want my heart to become sick too.
I know I can stay home and pray, I can hear services on internet... yet my desire is to go and be with other children of God.
3/7/2020 — Proverbs 13:25
“The lovers of God will have more than enough, but the wicked will always lack what they crave.”
Proverbs 13:25 — The Passion Translation
It is my attitude that makes me poor or wealthy. If I always want more and don’t get it then I am annoyed. If I am satisfied with what I have then I live in peace.
3/6/2020 — Matthew 6:21
“For your heart will always pursue what you value as your treasure.”
Matthew 6:21 - The Passion Translation
This works both ways... my heart is where my treasure is. My treasure is where my heart is.
I can tell what my treasure is by how I spend my time... with family? Shopping? Sewing?
But I can also tell what’s important to me by how I spend my treasure... wow... we seem to spend a lot of money on eating out! I spent more on my animals last month than I did on my health...
Another good chance to check my priorities.
3/5/2020 — Luke 12:15
“...For your life can never be measured by the amount of things you possess.””
Luke 12:15 — The Passion Translation
I wonder about the psychology of buying. Why does it feel good to have money come into the household? And then I turn around and spend it an that feels good too, but then I’ve got to budget til more money comes in... but my purpose isn’t saving... nor is my purpose really acquiring. It just feels good to look, to gain a trinket as a reminder of the time spent looking... it is a strange cycle.
I also notice that if I find one thing I want to buy then I suddenly find lots of things I want to buy! It’s a contagion!
The strange cycle continues... buy... toss out clutter... buy... toss out clutter... add something to my house... wish for simplicity.... add more stuff...
This is definitely not how I want to define my life! So why do I acquire more stuff?
3/4/2020 — 1 Timothy 6:11
“Timothy, you belong to God, so keep away from all these evil things. Try your best to please God and to be like him. Be faithful, loving, dependable, and gentle.”
1 Timothy 6:11 — Contemporary English Version
3/3/2020 — Psalms 131:1-3
“Lord, my heart is meek before you. I don’t consider myself better than others. I’m content to not pursue matters that are over my head— such as your complex mysteries and wonders— that I’m not yet ready to understand. I am humbled and quieted in your presence. Like a contented child who rests on its mother’s lap, I’m your resting child and my soul is content in you. O people of God, your time has come to quietly trust, waiting upon the Lord now and forever.”
Psalms 131:1-3 — The Passion Translation
In recent years I feel that so many things are going over my head. I don’t understand technology, sometimes I don’t understand PEOPLE!
Right now we are thinking and rethinking the virus scare. Are we going to be able to go to Takumi’s wedding in May? Should we go to America early? Bypass America and go direct to Mexico? Are other countries going to quarantine incoming visitors? Will travel insurance even be available in a couple months?
3/2/2020 — Ecclesiastes 4:6
“Better a handful with quietness Than both hands full, together with toil and grasping for the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 4:6 — New King James Version
We are heading into times where we will have to do without. The virus is beginning to limit our activities.
I think this time of restriction is going to teach us to prioritize, to learn to live more simply and contented. We may not have a variety of foods and restaurants to enjoy, but we have health and family. We may not be able to take advantage of the pool much longer but we have the beauty of the outdoors and fresh air.
3/1/2020 — Psalms 63:2
“I’m energized every time I enter your heavenly sanctuary to seek more of your power and drink in more of your glory.”
Psalms 63:2 — The Passion Translation
So. Is this my answer from God this morning to my question of whether I’m going to church or not?
The Catholic Church in town has cancelled their
worship service because of the Corona virus. The government says to restrict activities where people gather... Tetsu is already busy today so it’s my decision... go to church because that is my normal life, or stay home because preventative caution is requested by the government.
Fear is not the issue. Being responsible is.
2/27/2020 — John 14:31
“I am doing exactly what the Father destined for me to accomplish, so that the world will discover how much I love my Father. Now come with me.””
John 14:31 — The Passion Translation
Jesus did exactly what God had sent Him to do. He had a mission to show the world how much God loves them.
God has given me a mission to and it isn’t much different fro the one Jesus had. It is to show the world how much God loves them.
My way of accomplishing the mission may be different from Jesus but the only way to do it is to obey God. Love people... even difficult people. Be content... show people that God is enough. Be grateful... show forgiveness... be helpful... spend time.
2/26/2020 — Luke 18:7
“Won't God protect his chosen ones who pray to him day and night? Won't he be concerned for them?”
Luke 18:7 — Contemporary English Version
2/25/2020 — Colossians 3:17
“Let every activity of your lives and every word that comes from your lips be drenched with the beauty of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One. And bring your constant praise to God the Father because of what Christ has done for you!”
Colossians 3:17 — The Passion Translation
Living with God everyday means thinking of Him, doing things for Him, speaking to people as if speaking to Him and praising and thanking Him moment to moment.
“And when the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures saw the Lamb had taken the scroll, they fell facedown at the feet of the Lamb and worshiped him. Each of them had a harp and golden bowls brimming full of sweet fragrant incense—which are the prayers of God’s holy lovers.”
Revelation 5:8 — The Passion Translation
My prayers join all the other saints of all the other ages to rise like incense to God.
Amen. Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty.
Be it as Thou wills. 2/19/2020 — Psalms 51:1-2
“God, give me mercy from your fountain of forgiveness! I know your abundant love is enough to wash away my guilt. Because your compassion is so great, take away this shameful guilt of sin. Forgive the full extent of my rebellious ways, and erase this deep stain on my conscience.”
Psalms 51:1-2 — The Passion Translation
What is my sin? Such a question! What ISN’T my sin might be more appropriate!
Is my judgement of my sister-in-law a sin? Yes, it is even though she...
Is my lack of fervent prayer for the virus patients this day a sin? Yes, since I only get down to real praying when someone I love is sick.
2/17/2020 — 1 Kings 19:11
“The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.”
1 Kings 19:11 — New International Version
God invites me to stand before Him. In another Bible version it says “I want you to be there when I pass by...”
I stand before God, waiting for His daily instruction, listening for His voice. (How much greater it would be if I could say ‘listening TO His voice.’)
He speaks in unusual ways, more often with nudges and thoughts rather than drama. I expect God’s voice to be booming and powerful and obvious but I need to attune myself to the still small voice of God.
2/16/2020 — John 10:27
“My own sheep will hear my voice and I know each one, and they will follow me.”
John 10:27 — The Passion Translation
2/15/202 — 2 Corinthians 3:16
“But the moment one turns to the Lord with an open heart, the veil is lifted and they see.”
2 Corinthians 3:16 — The Passion Translation
This is my desire. To live God with my whole heart. To see Him in His majesty. To touch Him and draw strength. To know His will. To live with peace in my heart.
Spending a quiet time with God, unhurried, devoted to Him is how I seek to be closer.
“I stand silently to listen for the one I love, waiting as long as it takes for the Lord to rescue me. For God alone has become my Savior.”
Psalms 62:1 — The Passion Translation
In all honestly I rarely stand silently and I actually feel closer to God when I have praise music playing or when I am praising God with a praise band.
Silence to hear God’s will. Silence to rearrange my thoughts. Silence to sacrifice my “important” time to being with God.
2/13/2020 — Matthew 14:35
“He walked a short distance away, and being overcome with grief, he threw himself facedown on the ground. He prayed that if it were possible, he would not have to
experience this hour of suffering.”
Mark 14:35 — The Passion Translation
There are so many times when I feel my prayers aren’t being answered, when I’m not going to be able to go through whatever God has planned. But even Jesus felt this way, asking God to take the cup of suffering from Him.
The important thing is to remember to be honest, to speak to God, to accept that God’s will is my purpose over my own.
2/12/2020 — Exodus 32:14
“Then the LORD changed his mind about the terrible things he said he would do to his people.”
Exodus 32:14 — Common English Bible
I’m not going to think about a theological discussion, just contemplate on the Bible story that God is influenced when His loved one speaks with Him.
God invites me to share in His decision making by bringing up topics of agenda (mine) offering an argument for making a decision in favor of my request, learning that what is important to God should be important to me.
2/11/2020 — 2 Chronicles 7: 14
“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 — New International Version
Does our earth need healing? Yes, it definitely does.
God says to intercede for our land. Prayers matter and we are told to be humble, ask forgiveness and pray. I already know that God has forgiven my sin. Now how about sending up a prayer asking God to heal the earth we live on and our hearts and our lives.
2/10/2020 — Luke 18:8
“God will give swift justice to those who don’t give up. So be ever praying, ever expecting.... when the Son of Man comes back, will he find this kind of persistent faithfulness in his people?”
Luke 18:8 — The Passion Translation
God’s gift to us is FAITH. Our gift to Him is FAITHFULNESS.
I was encouraged this weekend at a Christian women’s conference to make an acrostic poem. My mind wandered to my One Word for 2020, GIFT.
G - God
I - IS
F - FOR
T - TANYA
2/8/2020 — Mark 10:52
“And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.”
Mark 10:52 — New Living Translation
Asking for ANYTHING is an act of faith. Ask for a meal I have faith the restaurant will supply me with something filling and nutritious (and hopefully delicious). Ask my husband to drive me somewhere, I’m putting faith in his driving ability and his willingness to help me. Asking God expressed my belief that God can and will help me.
2/7/2020 — 1 Chronicles 16:25
“For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and he is to be feared above all gods.”
1 Chronicles 16:25 — English Standard Version
My perception of God is the loving, approachable father who smiles and wants me to be happy. I forget that He is also mighty, fearful, all deciding God. He could crush me and my dreams like a gnat... and yet...
2/6/2020 — Matthew 6:9
...‘Our Father in heaven, may your name always be kept holy.”
Matthew 6:9 — New Century Version
Addressing God as Father as comforting and also confusing. My own father was loving to me but judgmental to the world. He had his share of bad habits and I wonder how much of my relationship with him reflects on my relationship with God. That’s scary too when I wonder how MY attitudes shaped other people’s perception of God.
2/5/2020 — Psalms 46:10
“Surrender your anxiety! Be silent and stop your striving and you will see that I am God. I am the God above all the nations, and I will be exalted throughout the whole earth.”
Psalms 46:10 — The Passion Translation
I see the necessity of being quiet before God. Concentrating on Him, greeting Him with a smile rather than a request or demand or complaint.
But in reality, here I sit in the corner of the dining room with earbuds in my ears to muffle the gossipy TV show Tetsu has on, a wall away. Other rooms are cold and icy... so I choose warmth over quiet...
How do I expect to honor God with a rush-rush attitude, not even being able to hear my own heart let alone God’s voice?
God says we can develop the posture of prayer in ANY situation. In prison, in a hospital bed, driving down the street, in bustling family life.
2/4/2020 — Matthew 6:11
“We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.”
Matthew 6:11 — The Passion Translation
Just as I acknowledge God as my daily provider, I also need to acknowledge that I need to GO to Him daily.
“Lord, as long as we understand You’re the provider, I thought I’d remind You that I’m too busy to go get my supplies and I think Your service should include free shipping too.”
How ludicrous! I should be crawling on my knees into His presence grateful for the crumbs!
2/3/2020 — Matthew 6:5
““Whenever you pray, be sincere and not like the pretenders...”
Matthew 6:5 — The Passion Translation
How real am I when I pray? I pray for friends and I realize how “godly” I try to make my prayer, covering all the bases of praise and gratitude and confession. Am I real?
But when I pray silently I speed pray. “Thanks for this, thanks for that. You know my heart (better than me because I can’t even organize my thoughts). Your will. Amen”
2/2/2020 — Matthew 6:6
“Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.”
Matthew 6:6 — Message Bible
I remember when a missionary gave the grace at a lunch time
meal. He paused for a long time before he finally spoke.
“... Father, thank you so much.”
It was such a simple prayer but 40 years later I still remember that prayer. Other Christians that I knew used long difficult words that I hadn’t even learned yet in Japanese, but God doesn’t need fancy words. He wants a true heart and love.
Keep it simple, keep it real, keep it up.
2/1/2020 — Luke 11:1
...“Lord, teach us to pray....”
Luke 11:1 — Good News Bible
After being a Christian for over 45 years it sees odd that I’m still trying to learn how to pray. A prayer warrior I’ve never been though I yearn to be that connected to God.
Jesus taught his disciples to pray with the model of the Lord’s Prayer. I believe that God will teach me again (oh so patiently) as I renew my commitment to speaking with Him daily.
1/31/2020 — Zechariah 4:10
“...They are disappointed because so little progress is being made. But they will see Zerubbabel continuing to build the Temple, and they will be glad.””
Zechariah 4:10 — Good News Bible
It is so easy to get discouraged... my contributions are so small... they hardly make a dent in the world. The problem is so big and none of my efforts result in progress...
I feel this when my dieting and exercise don’t go well, when my relationship with God seems at a standstill, when my Spanish efforts are NOT resulting in fluent Spanish, when prayers don’t seem to be answered. I feel that one person’s attempt to help the environment doesn’t shift the events at all, that teaching English hasn’t led anyone to international outlooks. Ahh... so little progress over a lifetime.
1/29/2020 — 1 Corinthians 10:13
“...And each test is an opportunity to trust him more...”
1 Corinthians 10:13 — The Passion Translation
Just like each situation and person God brings into my life is the gift to know Him better, each trial and test is an opportunity to practice trust. God uses all in my life to better me.
1/28/2020 — Philippians 3:12
“I admit that I haven’t yet acquired the absolute fullness that I’m pursuing, but I run with passion into his abundance so that I may reach the purpose that Jesus Christ has called me to fulfill and wants me to discover.”
Philippians 3:12 — The Passion Translation
What is the purpose that Jesus has called me to fulfill? What am I supposed to discover today?
I am to be living and helpful. I am to recognize God’s control and be thankful. I am to keep my eyes open to God’s goodness and opportunities to share His love.
On my snowy Tuesday I’m not going to meet many people so my joyous presence is going to have to be poured out on my husband. I wonder how he’s going to feel about that!
1/27/2020 — Hebrews 10:24
“We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things.”
Hebrews 10:24 — Contemporary English Version
Just as God directs me to help others, He is also directing others to help me. It is a community project to lift each other up and build together.
1/26/2020 — Romans 7:15
“I do not understand the things I do. I do not do what I want to do, and I do the things I hate.”
Romans 7:15 — New Century Version
Ha! That sure sums up my resolution breaking mindset. I’m dieting. No I’m eating potato chips and chocolates. I’m getting in shape. No, I’m finding another great excuse to skip swimming. I’m going to have a meaningful prayer time. No, I’m going to speed through it because God understands my intentions and is so forgiving.
1/25/2020 — Isaiah 49:6
“...I will make you a light for all nations to show people all over the world the way to be saved.””
Isaiah 49:6 — New Century Version
This verse makes me uncomfortable. Which is crazy because I came to Japan as a missionary associate!! But I never like the nudge from God to evangelize, to spread the gospel, to go into the world and preach His name! I’m a failure at missionary work!
1/23/2020 — Mark 8:35
“If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it.”
Mark 8:35 — New Living Testament
Many translations of this verse say “whoever loses his life for me...”
It is easy to take this as literal but how often are we required to give up our lives? One life, one time!
But maybe this means giving up parts of our lives. Making time for someone else. Sacrificing time for someone else. Inconveniently sacrificing time when it messes up plans, causes irritation in others, means a loss of work time or enjoyable time, requires a lot of rearranging and headaches!
Sometimes when I help someone out I think, “that was convenient. I wouldn’t have been able to stop if it had been a different day...”
1/22/2020 — Philippians 4:17
“I mention this not because I’m requesting a gift, but so that the fruit of your generosity may bring you an abundant reward.”
Philippians 4:17 — The Passion Translation
God has eternal rewards waiting for us! It seem self-seeking to do something for the reward dangling in front of me, but Jesus often talked about storing up treasures in heaven.
I give of my time or energy or money and I’m making an investment in heaven.
1/18/2020 — Philippians 4:14
“It was good of you to help me when I was having such a hard time.”
Philippians 4:14 — Contemporary English Version
God put me on earth to help people and give to others. And God directs others to do the same for me. In God’s eyes and God’s time it all evens out.
If I really believe this, then why do I feel I’m being taken advantaged of? Why do I keep feeling I’m the one doing all the giving? And it is true that some people in my life are only takers continually asking for help, getting themselves into more problems and needing to get bailed out again. How do I or SHOULD I even, say no to their pleas for more?
1/17/2020 — Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God’s peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 — New Century Version
It is hard not to worry. I have a concern. I start to worry and blow the problem WAY up. I pray and remind myself of God’s love, His goodness, His being in control. I put aside my concern... FOR AN HOUR OR SO... and then I start all over again. Sigh.
1/16/2020 — Psalms 147:7
“Sing out with songs of thanksgiving to the Lord! Let’s sing our praises with melodies overflowing!”
Psalms 147:7 — The Passion Translation
I love singing along with gospel songs as I see in my sewing room. I love joining the praise band singing praises at church. When I am alone I sometimes feel impelled to raise my hands in praise as I sing (an impediment to my sewing progress) but at church I feel embarrassed to express myself in the same way.
Why is this? I think It shouldn’t be that way. I shouldn’t care who sees me. I shouldn’t care what Tetsu thinks.
1/15/2020 — Habakkuk 3:2
“LORD, I have heard the news about you; I am amazed at what you have done. LORD, do great things once again in our time; make those things happen again in our own days. Even when you are angry, remember to be kind.”
Habakkuk 3:2 — New Century Version
Knowing how God has worked in history and also in my life is part of moving into a relationship with Him.
Remembering how God has answered my prayer, even the prayers of others, and then thanking Him is part of communicating with God.
1/14/2020 — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
“...So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11
This morning I was inspired to text my son-in-law just to say I was going to try to text him more often just so that we can have a stronger connection between us. We hear so many wonderful things about him from Leiya but I thought we should text more directly since we don’t get to be together much.
I expressed my gratefulness and intentions and within seconds I heard back!
Putting God’s Word into practice!
1/13/2020 — 2 Corinthians 9:11-12
“You will be blessed in every way, and you will be able to keep on being generous. Then many people will thank God when we deliver your gift. What you are doing is much more than a service that supplies God's people with what they need. It is something that will make many others thank God.”
2 Corinthians 9:11-12 — Contemporary English Version
Generosity generates gratefulness... in me, because I am thankful that God has supplied me with excess, in others, because God has supplied through me and their eyes are (hopefully) lifted to Him.
Any giving I do is not done so that I can receive thanks but so that thankfulness from many can be sent up to God.
1/12/2020 — 1 Corinthians 1:10
“I urge you, my brothers and sisters, for the sake of the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to agree to live in unity with one another and put to rest any division that attempts to tear you apart. Be restored as one united body living in perfect harmony. Form a consistent choreography among yourselves, having a common perspective with shared values.”
1 Corinthians 1:10 — The Passion Translation
This is so true is our family life as well as out in the world in other relationships.
“Having a common perspective with shared values...”
My God’s grace and by knowing what’s important to me, my marriage is based on common perspectives and shared values. But I don’t think that means if something doesn’t match up perfectly at the beginning, that we’ve made a bad start. Values grow and new things become important. In order to keep the relationship close, we have to SHARE and talk.
1/11/2020 — Psalms 15:4
“...They keep their promises to their neighbors, even when it hurts.”
Psalms 15:4 — New Century Version
Who may live on God’s holy mountain...?
Among other things, they are people who keep their promises, who are trustworthy.
Being a person people can trust glorifies God. Staying steadfast to my word, doing what I say, not living by convenience. God honors the person who lives by His commands.
1/10/2020 — Philippians 2:4
“...Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.”
Philippians 2:4 — Message Bible
God’s system of relationships is that we are to love each other as we love ourselves. That we pray for one another. That we put other’s needs before our own.
Giving the gift of myself to others... the gift of time, the gift of talents.
It is so easy to measure out all that I have wondering if this person or that will live up to my expectations, whether I will be appreciated, whether I’ll have enough left over for my own needs.
1/9/2020 — Philippians 1:21
“My true life is the Anointed One, and dying means gaining more of him.”
Philippians 1:21 — The Passion Translation
For me to live is ____.
What would I honestly answer? Family? Time? Service? (That one sounds good) God?
1/8/2020 — Philippians 1:22-26
“As long as I’m alive in this body, there is good work for me to do....So I plan to be around awhile, companion to you as your growth and joy in this life of trusting God continues....We’ll be praising Christ, enjoying each other.”
Philippians 1:22-26 — Message Bible
It boils down to, what is my purpose. Paul’s purpose was to serve God by serving people (which is a pretty good purpose to emulate!). Everything was taken from him except his purpose, to serve God... by writing letters, encouraging people.
When all is taken away and things are out of control, what can I control and keep unchanged? My attitude, my purpose (which I’d better reaffirm), my love.
1/7/2020 — Philippians 1:19
“For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance.”
Philippians 1:19 — New Living Translation
“I know”. I know who God is. I know what are the truths in the Bible about His love and His power.
“As you pray for me.” With the prayers of others I feel strong and loved and close to God.
“With the Spirit of Jesus Christ.” The Holy Spirit intercedes for me, protects me and gives me guidance. He is within me.
1/6/2020 — Philippians 1:17
“but the former preach Christ [insincerely] out of selfish ambition [just self-promotion], thinking that they are causing me distress in my imprisonment.”
Philippians 1:17 — Amplified Bible
A lot of trouble caused by people is because of their insecurities, hoping to hold things and people back so that they themselves can seem smarter. I can’t control other people and their hang-ups but I can control my attitude.
1/5/2020 — Philippians 1:12
“My dear friends, I want you to know that what has happened to me has helped to spread the good news.”
Philippians 1:12 — Contemporary English Version
Not all that happens to me is only for me. God has a bigger picture and in it I am not always in the center. I know it sounds like I’m being used, in the bad sense, for God’s purposes but my desire is to be used, in the good sense, for God’s purposes!
1/4/2020 — Philippians 4:8
“Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart].”
Philippians 4:8 — Amplified Bible
The Bible clearly says to keep my mind filled with good things and my heart will be free from stress and worry.
I can sort of see that. Look at all the rot on TV that we call entertainment... I wonder why I find murder mysteries and detective shows entertaining. My goodness! People are depicted as dying and that is entertaining?! What is wrong with my brain?
At any rate... I suppose I can limit my TV viewing. I can fill my sewing room with praise music. I can start my day with a Bible verse and hopefully remember it, meditate on it throughout my day.
1/3/2020 — Romans 8:32
“God did not keep back his own Son, but he gave him for us. If God did this, won't he freely give us everything else?”
Romans 8:32 — Contemporary English Version
I have a problem with generosity towards my SIL. On MY terms I’m very generous.
“Can I get you this, take you here, buy you that?”
But when my husband is generous towards her because he “feels sorry” for her, then my irritation seeps in. And when she starts asking for things and playing for more, then I start getting annoyed at Tetsu.
Have I such a judgmental, ungenerous, unloving heart? Yes, I do.
I am lacking in nothing. There is nothing material that I desire. What do I need? I need God’s help!
My first gift from God this year? My SIL?
1/2/2020 — 1 Peter 5:7
“Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — The Passion Translation
I have heard that if I know how to worry then I know how to meditate. Worry is rolling my head around a problem, meditating on God’s Word is rolling my head around God’s promises.
Worry changes nothing and makes the problem seem larger. Meditating on God’s Word gives me peace and confidence and encourages prayer which is a direct connection to God.
1/1/2020 — Philippians 2:18
“And so no matter what happens to me, you should rejoice in ecstatic celebration with me!”
Philippians 2:18 — The Passion Translation
I found my One Word for 2020. It is GIFT. I was inspired by a blog friend who reminded me that everything is a gift from God.
I sort of thought I’d title this year’s thought page as, Gifts from God in 2020, but my rambles are just that, I don’t think of them as messages from God... they are so menial and fraught with complaints and irritations. Still, I do plan to claim for myself this year that whatever comes my way is a gift from God.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts 5/1/2020. Romans 8:"“What will separate us from the love Christ has for us? ...." has followed me for some time. It has showed up in different places and circumstances so it feels like God wants to imprint it in my heart so I never forget it no matter what happens.
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