There is a song on the radio that has really spoken to my heart. It is called Blessings. Beautiful song that talks about how we can't understand the hurt and pain that we go through, but through it all God is there for us. She speaks such honesty that I find refreshing. She sings about crying out about doubting where God is. Sometimes as Christians we think this is wrong. It is not and it is healthy. At the same time the important thing to remember is that God is here. Just Friday morning I wrote in my prayer journal that I couldn't understand where God was and I was mad. I was feeling lonely ( once again) . And you know what happened. The rest of the day I felt better. God didn't desert me because I was honest. He reminded me throughout the day of his blessings. Nothing changed, but there was just this peace that all was going to be okay.
As I listen to the song I am reminded once again that God doesn't create the hurt in our lives but he can give us blessings in spite of the hurt that others and circumstances can create in our lives.
What are some blessings that have come out of maybe a hurtful or difficult time?
Maybe it is a closer relationship with a spouse
maybe it is a deeper appreciation for health
maybe it is deeper appreciation for family
a deeper walk with God
maybe God has introduced new people into your world as you share like circumstances
maybe what has been taken away from you as you given you more time for someone or something else
Whatever it is you may be experiencing remember God is there for you. He hears. He knows. Keep praying.
Take time to listen to the video
Love and Prayers,
Jen
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Grace in His Eyes
Had a few thoughts as I watched a video that a friend posted on facebook. It was exactly what I needed. Today so far has not been the greatest, maybe even the last couple of weeks. Still lots of good things happening like my girl going to prom. She was so beautiful. We loved seeing her happy and enjoying this moment in her life with her friend Ashton. It has been great to have family around supporting both of my kids. To be able to hug my nephew when his kitty died.
But even with all this my heart has been heavy. So much not nice stuff happening around us. So many that need love and some days it just feels like I can't make enough of a difference. Then there are days I am just tired of trying to love and wondering does it really matter? Where is God is this world?
Then I am reminded that my God does see and he does care, He loves!!! He will give me the love I need to keep loving. He is not a God of anger just waiting to lash out on us. He poured out his anger while Jesus was on the cross. Now we have his grace. He wants us to be part of his family. Our troubles and hurts, sickness and sadness are not God judging us and pouring out his wrath. Instead we have a God of grace who sees our worth and says I am here to walk with you. Our God is a good God. He sent his son Jesus to teach us how to be his people. We are to be vessels for grace, not judgement.
He is here wanting to love us, wanting to give us a family. wanting to help us walk through whatever life throws at us. Oh how He loves us so!!!!!
Please take time to watch this video and remember that you are loved! Thank you Heather for the reminder!
Love and Prayers,
Monday, May 9, 2011
On level ground
Good morning! The sun is shining! What a beautiful morning. This past month has went by so quickly( although happy it is over!) Been a busy one in the Loner household. We are so looking forward to warmer temps, sunshine and fun!
As I enjoyed my devotions in my beautiful little porch ( thanks to kids and Paul for the reno) I thought I would share what I read. Nothing new, but something worth being reminded about.
" God calls us not to a solitary sainthood but to fellowship in company of committed individuals."
The devotion went on to talk about how we are met to encourage each other, love each other, share each others burdens. That church is to be a haven for all.
" The church is God's way to have ALL people- regardless of race, weatlh, social standing, professional position, education, etc.-to stand equally before God, to stand on level ground at the foot of the cross."
I love that quote. We are all equal in God's eyes. We all have worth. And with that we are to treat each other like this by supporting and accepting all people that come into our lives and especially into our churches.
Here are a few verses you can look up for more on what God says to us about our relationship with others:
- Romans 12:10
Romans 15:14
1 Corinthians 12:25
Galatians 5:13
Galatians 6:2
Ephesians 4:32
Colossians 3:16
1 Thessalonians 4:9
1 Thessalonians 4:18
My devotion suggested picking 2 verses and make a special effort to put them into practice today.
you never know the difference you could make in a person's life!!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
As I enjoyed my devotions in my beautiful little porch ( thanks to kids and Paul for the reno) I thought I would share what I read. Nothing new, but something worth being reminded about.
" God calls us not to a solitary sainthood but to fellowship in company of committed individuals."
The devotion went on to talk about how we are met to encourage each other, love each other, share each others burdens. That church is to be a haven for all.
" The church is God's way to have ALL people- regardless of race, weatlh, social standing, professional position, education, etc.-to stand equally before God, to stand on level ground at the foot of the cross."
I love that quote. We are all equal in God's eyes. We all have worth. And with that we are to treat each other like this by supporting and accepting all people that come into our lives and especially into our churches.
Here are a few verses you can look up for more on what God says to us about our relationship with others:
- Romans 12:10
Romans 15:14
1 Corinthians 12:25
Galatians 5:13
Galatians 6:2
Ephesians 4:32
Colossians 3:16
1 Thessalonians 4:9
1 Thessalonians 4:18
My devotion suggested picking 2 verses and make a special effort to put them into practice today.
you never know the difference you could make in a person's life!!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
Friday, April 15, 2011
Women you are breathtaking and the Crown of Creation!
I have been reading "Captivating" unveiling the Women's Soul. I know as a woman that sometimes we can forget our worth so I wanted to share this one paragraph with you. So far I would recommend this book to every women.
"Given the way creation unfolds, how it builds to ever higher and higher works of art, can there be any doubt that Eve is the crown of creation? Not an afterthought. Not a nice addition like an ornament on a tree. She is God's final touch, his piece de resistance. She fills a place in the world nothing and no one else can fill. Step to the window, ladies, if you can. Better still, find some place with a view. Look across the earth and say to yourselves, " The whole, vast whole is incomplete without me.Creation reached it zenith in me." taken from page 25
Crown of Creation. I like that. Often in churches we are told about Eve as "The helper" sometimes implied as if Eve was created as an afterthought for Adam. The one who serves and is there for his purpose only. I love the way Stasi Elderidge goes deep into the word and God's heart to reveal that we are the crown of creation. We have our own unique purpose and reveal a part of God's heart like man cannot. I would really encourage you to read this book.
Love and Prayers
Jen Loner
"Given the way creation unfolds, how it builds to ever higher and higher works of art, can there be any doubt that Eve is the crown of creation? Not an afterthought. Not a nice addition like an ornament on a tree. She is God's final touch, his piece de resistance. She fills a place in the world nothing and no one else can fill. Step to the window, ladies, if you can. Better still, find some place with a view. Look across the earth and say to yourselves, " The whole, vast whole is incomplete without me.Creation reached it zenith in me." taken from page 25
Crown of Creation. I like that. Often in churches we are told about Eve as "The helper" sometimes implied as if Eve was created as an afterthought for Adam. The one who serves and is there for his purpose only. I love the way Stasi Elderidge goes deep into the word and God's heart to reveal that we are the crown of creation. We have our own unique purpose and reveal a part of God's heart like man cannot. I would really encourage you to read this book.
Love and Prayers
Jen Loner
Friday, April 1, 2011
Arms that Hold the Universe ... Holds us too!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGCHecATSGs
As I was listening to the Light Music station offered through Shaw this song came on that really spoke to me.
I was sitting at the computer looking up info for a sermon for Palm Sunday ( officers have their daughters wedding that weekend) and feeling some anxiety with this. I love preaching and getting ready for it so just having some memories come back. Need to focus on the here and now. I am so grateful for the officers that have given us time and been patient with us and have allowed us to be part of ministry.
We have decided to try and go back to The Salvation Army in Picton. We loved the church we had been going to. But...... both Paul and I felt this was not where God wanted us. I struggle with this. I have tried to convince myself that that is where we needed to be as a family but as I watch my children care for friends around them I see in them the Spirit of the Army and what it stands for it. We have always had an Army family and miss that. There is something unique, even with all its flaws the Salvation Army family has. It is part of who we are. So we went last night and practiced music. It was fun. It felt like "home." On the other hand today I am struggling with the feelings of loss. But that is okay. That is normal. I knew when we decided to go back I would have a harder time as it reminds me of so much but I felt God saying that he was going to take of me. That I would be okay. It is better to listen to God and trust that He will give me the strength and peace I need.
So I hear this song for the first time and loved the words
And the arms that hold the universe
Are holding you tonight
You can rest inside
It's gonna be alright
And the voice that calmed the raging sea
Is calling you His child
So be still and know He's in control
He will never let you go
You can hope, you can rise, you can stand
He's still got the whole world in His hands
You can hope, you can rise, you can stand
He's still got the whole world
The whole world in His hands
I still have lots of unanswered questions but I am thankful for what He has provided for me. I will trust this is where we are to be for this time and continue serving and loving Him with all that I have.
Maybe you can relate. You have unanswered questions but still see so much evidence of God's hand in your world. Keep believing and trusting and he will work out all the rest!
Love and Prayers
Jen
As I was listening to the Light Music station offered through Shaw this song came on that really spoke to me.
I was sitting at the computer looking up info for a sermon for Palm Sunday ( officers have their daughters wedding that weekend) and feeling some anxiety with this. I love preaching and getting ready for it so just having some memories come back. Need to focus on the here and now. I am so grateful for the officers that have given us time and been patient with us and have allowed us to be part of ministry.
We have decided to try and go back to The Salvation Army in Picton. We loved the church we had been going to. But...... both Paul and I felt this was not where God wanted us. I struggle with this. I have tried to convince myself that that is where we needed to be as a family but as I watch my children care for friends around them I see in them the Spirit of the Army and what it stands for it. We have always had an Army family and miss that. There is something unique, even with all its flaws the Salvation Army family has. It is part of who we are. So we went last night and practiced music. It was fun. It felt like "home." On the other hand today I am struggling with the feelings of loss. But that is okay. That is normal. I knew when we decided to go back I would have a harder time as it reminds me of so much but I felt God saying that he was going to take of me. That I would be okay. It is better to listen to God and trust that He will give me the strength and peace I need.
So I hear this song for the first time and loved the words
And the arms that hold the universe
Are holding you tonight
You can rest inside
It's gonna be alright
And the voice that calmed the raging sea
Is calling you His child
So be still and know He's in control
He will never let you go
You can hope, you can rise, you can stand
He's still got the whole world in His hands
You can hope, you can rise, you can stand
He's still got the whole world
The whole world in His hands
I still have lots of unanswered questions but I am thankful for what He has provided for me. I will trust this is where we are to be for this time and continue serving and loving Him with all that I have.
Maybe you can relate. You have unanswered questions but still see so much evidence of God's hand in your world. Keep believing and trusting and he will work out all the rest!
Love and Prayers
Jen
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
God is here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27KfKpmq9GQ
Good morning. Just have a little thought for today. I am suppose to be cleaning, so I need to stay focused. Anyone that knows me knows that I do not enjoy cleaning especially by myself! As I was actually cleaning I was listening to Casting Crowns and the song I Know Your There came on. When I first got this album from my sister a couple of Christmas's ago this was one of my favorite. In the move I lost some of my CD's but thankfully Paul put them on the computer.
Anyhow.... this song came on and I couldn't help but think how we need to remind each other that God is here!! He cares and listens! I hear of so many that don't know of His love and grace and think how can I make a difference? Will I make a difference? There are so many hurting people out there. As I listened God reminded me that I just need to love them so they can see His love through me. Love them like He loves me. Show grace - unmerited favor just because. To understand and believe in a God of grace, people need to be shown that grace first by us.
The verse that came to my mind was 2 Corinthians 2:15
"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."
What Aroma did Christ have? John 1: 17 when explaining Jesus states that grace and truth came through Him. Jesus not only taught grace he demonstrated it daily showing love and kindness to those he came in contact with.
The message puts it this way " Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go , people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognised by those as the way of salvation- a aroma redolent with life ( redolent means strong, I had to look it up!)
When I think of exquisite I think of beautiful. We have opportunity everyday to care and show grace which is such a beautiful thing to those around us and God through his Son allows me to be His person. Isn't that amazing!
I pray today that you will be an aroma for Christ or if you don't know Christ that you will ask someone about Him. God is everywhere and he is waiting to listen!
I have copied the link on utube for the song I was listening too. Hope you enjoy!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
Good morning. Just have a little thought for today. I am suppose to be cleaning, so I need to stay focused. Anyone that knows me knows that I do not enjoy cleaning especially by myself! As I was actually cleaning I was listening to Casting Crowns and the song I Know Your There came on. When I first got this album from my sister a couple of Christmas's ago this was one of my favorite. In the move I lost some of my CD's but thankfully Paul put them on the computer.
Anyhow.... this song came on and I couldn't help but think how we need to remind each other that God is here!! He cares and listens! I hear of so many that don't know of His love and grace and think how can I make a difference? Will I make a difference? There are so many hurting people out there. As I listened God reminded me that I just need to love them so they can see His love through me. Love them like He loves me. Show grace - unmerited favor just because. To understand and believe in a God of grace, people need to be shown that grace first by us.
The verse that came to my mind was 2 Corinthians 2:15
"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."
What Aroma did Christ have? John 1: 17 when explaining Jesus states that grace and truth came through Him. Jesus not only taught grace he demonstrated it daily showing love and kindness to those he came in contact with.
The message puts it this way " Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go , people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognised by those as the way of salvation- a aroma redolent with life ( redolent means strong, I had to look it up!)
When I think of exquisite I think of beautiful. We have opportunity everyday to care and show grace which is such a beautiful thing to those around us and God through his Son allows me to be His person. Isn't that amazing!
I pray today that you will be an aroma for Christ or if you don't know Christ that you will ask someone about Him. God is everywhere and he is waiting to listen!
I have copied the link on utube for the song I was listening too. Hope you enjoy!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Who Am I?
Good morning!! So happy spring has arrived. Although I am not fond of birds, I love to hear them singing and so glad they are back.
Life here in Hillier has been busy. It was nice last week to have a bit of break from the routine with March Break although I ended up sick with the flu. Oh well. At least I didn't have to worry about calling in sick.
Now back to routine.
This morning in my devotions I was reminded again about self worth. The other day I was looking at purpose. Self worth and purpose I believe go hand in hand. In order to believe we have purpose, that we can accomplish anything, we need to have a healthy sense of self worth.
So often we depend on those around us to give a sense of self worth. Of course we want those around us to love us which in itself is good. But our self worth can't just come from them. No matter how wonderful they are they cannot be the source of our self worth. Even the best partner in life will at some time fight with you, disagree with you and even hurt your feelings. That is normal and life. Our self worth also can't come from who we are. ( big one I am dealing with!!!)
I came across this quote: ( taken from book Search for Significance by Robert S. McGee)
The worlds system ( in regards to self worth)
Self worth=Performance ( what you do) & Other's Opinions ( what others think and say about you)
This system can leave us feeling unloved and not worthy. I see on facebook all the time people posting things like rate how much you like me. That is scary but shows how much we value what others think. I think of those that have been hurt by those who were suppose to love them. Their self worth is based on those people's opinions. So important as parents and friends to value and appreciate those God has given us to care for. Let them know their worth daily!
Thankfully there is another system to go by - God's System
Self Worth= God's truth about you
The bible is full of truths that God wants you to know about yourself. A beautiful version of this is on the website Freedom in Christ. http://www.ficm.org/newsite/index.php?command=textwhoamiinchrist I would encourage you to print in out and put it somewhere where you can see it each day.
It states that:
We are ACCEPTED- We are SECURE - We are SIGNIFICANT
Not because of anything we have done, but because God loves us unconditionally. Please take time to go to that website. Look at the bible verses. Read them and believe. Our part is to believe that God loves us and we will find our worth in Him. We just have to admit we need him, that we have done wrong and believe He sent His son to die for us so we can live with him in eternity. That He loves us because!!!
This is Easter Season. Please take time to find a church. Just go listen and hear the Easter story. Hear about the love that God has for you.
As I write this for you, I am also writing for myself. I so need to keep believing that my worth comes from Him. That other's opinions don't really matter and my job doesn't define me. I have to remember the truths of the bible as the world tries to tell you different all the time.
I hope and pray today that you will know that you are worthwhile!! That you have a God who sees you precious and dearly loved. That He has purpose for you!!!
Love and Prayers
Jen Loner
Life here in Hillier has been busy. It was nice last week to have a bit of break from the routine with March Break although I ended up sick with the flu. Oh well. At least I didn't have to worry about calling in sick.
Now back to routine.
This morning in my devotions I was reminded again about self worth. The other day I was looking at purpose. Self worth and purpose I believe go hand in hand. In order to believe we have purpose, that we can accomplish anything, we need to have a healthy sense of self worth.
So often we depend on those around us to give a sense of self worth. Of course we want those around us to love us which in itself is good. But our self worth can't just come from them. No matter how wonderful they are they cannot be the source of our self worth. Even the best partner in life will at some time fight with you, disagree with you and even hurt your feelings. That is normal and life. Our self worth also can't come from who we are. ( big one I am dealing with!!!)
I came across this quote: ( taken from book Search for Significance by Robert S. McGee)
The worlds system ( in regards to self worth)
Self worth=Performance ( what you do) & Other's Opinions ( what others think and say about you)
This system can leave us feeling unloved and not worthy. I see on facebook all the time people posting things like rate how much you like me. That is scary but shows how much we value what others think. I think of those that have been hurt by those who were suppose to love them. Their self worth is based on those people's opinions. So important as parents and friends to value and appreciate those God has given us to care for. Let them know their worth daily!
Thankfully there is another system to go by - God's System
Self Worth= God's truth about you
The bible is full of truths that God wants you to know about yourself. A beautiful version of this is on the website Freedom in Christ. http://www.ficm.org/newsite/index.php?command=textwhoamiinchrist I would encourage you to print in out and put it somewhere where you can see it each day.
It states that:
We are ACCEPTED- We are SECURE - We are SIGNIFICANT
Not because of anything we have done, but because God loves us unconditionally. Please take time to go to that website. Look at the bible verses. Read them and believe. Our part is to believe that God loves us and we will find our worth in Him. We just have to admit we need him, that we have done wrong and believe He sent His son to die for us so we can live with him in eternity. That He loves us because!!!
This is Easter Season. Please take time to find a church. Just go listen and hear the Easter story. Hear about the love that God has for you.
As I write this for you, I am also writing for myself. I so need to keep believing that my worth comes from Him. That other's opinions don't really matter and my job doesn't define me. I have to remember the truths of the bible as the world tries to tell you different all the time.
I hope and pray today that you will know that you are worthwhile!! That you have a God who sees you precious and dearly loved. That He has purpose for you!!!
Love and Prayers
Jen Loner
| I am accepted... | |
| John 1:12 | I am God's child. |
| John 15:15 | As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ. |
| Romans 5:1 | I have been justified. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:17 | I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 | I have been bought with a price and I belong to God. |
| 1 Corinthians 12:27 | I am a member of Christ's body. |
| Ephesians 1:3-8 | I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. |
| Colossians 1:13-14 | I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. |
| Colossians 2:9-10 | I am complete in Christ. |
| Hebrews 4:14-16 | I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. |
| I am secure... | |
| Romans 8:1-2 | I am free from condemnation. |
| Romans 8:28 | I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances. |
| Romans 8:31-39 | I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be separated from the love of God. |
| 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 | I have been established, anointed and sealed by God. |
| Colossians 3:1-4 | I am hidden with Christ in God. |
| Philippians 1:6 | I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me. |
| Philippians 3:20 | I am a citizen of heaven. |
| 2 Timothy 1:7 | I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. |
| 1 John 5:18 | I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me. |
| I am significant... | |
| John 15:5 | I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life. |
| John 15:16 | I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. |
| 1 Corinthians 3:16 | I am God's temple. |
| 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 | I am a minister of reconciliation for God. |
| Ephesians 2:6 | I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm. |
| Ephesians 2:10 | I am God's workmanship. |
| Ephesians 3:12 | I may approach God with freedom and confidence. |
| Philippians 4:13 | I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. |
| I am accepted... | |
| John 1:12 | I am God's child. |
| John 15:15 | As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ. |
| Romans 5:1 | I have been justified. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:17 | I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 | I have been bought with a price and I belong to God. |
| 1 Corinthians 12:27 | I am a member of Christ's body. |
| Ephesians 1:3-8 | I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. |
| Colossians 1:13-14 | I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. |
| Colossians 2:9-10 | I am complete in Christ. |
| Hebrews 4:14-16 | I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. |
| I am secure... | |
| Romans 8:1-2 | I am free from condemnation. |
| Romans 8:28 | I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances. |
| Romans 8:31-39 | I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be separated from the love of God. |
| 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 | I have been established, anointed and sealed by God. |
| Colossians 3:1-4 | I am hidden with Christ in God. |
| Philippians 1:6 | I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me. |
| Philippians 3:20 | I am a citizen of heaven. |
| 2 Timothy 1:7 | I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. |
| 1 John 5:18 | I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me. |
| I am significant... | |
| John 15:5 | I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life. |
| John 15:16 | I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. |
| 1 Corinthians 3:16 | I am God's temple. |
| 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 | I am a minister of reconciliation for God. |
| Ephesians 2:6 | I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm. |
| Ephesians 2:10 | I am God's workmanship. |
| Ephesians 3:12 | I may approach God with freedom and confidence. |
| Philippians 4:13 | I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. |
| I am accepted... | |
| John 1:12 | I am God's child. |
| John 15:15 | As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ. |
| Romans 5:1 | I have been justified. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:17 | I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 | I have been bought with a price and I belong to God. |
| 1 Corinthians 12:27 | I am a member of Christ's body. |
| Ephesians 1:3-8 | I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. |
| Colossians 1:13-14 | I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. |
| Colossians 2:9-10 | I am complete in Christ. |
| Hebrews 4:14-16 | I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. |
| I am secure... | |
| Romans 8:1-2 | I am free from condemnation. |
| Romans 8:28 | I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances. |
| Romans 8:31-39 | I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be separated from the love of God. |
| 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 | I have been established, anointed and sealed by God. |
| Colossians 3:1-4 | I am hidden with Christ in God. |
| Philippians 1:6 | I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me. |
| Philippians 3:20 | I am a citizen of heaven. |
| 2 Timothy 1:7 | I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. |
| 1 John 5:18 | I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me. |
| I am significant... | |
| John 15:5 | I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life. |
| John 15:16 | I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. |
| 1 Corinthians 3:16 | I am God's temple. |
| 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 | I am a minister of reconciliation for God. |
| Ephesians 2:6 | I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm. |
| Ephesians 2:10 | I am God's workmanship. |
| Ephesians 3:12 | I may approach God with freedom and confidence. |
| Philippians 4:13 | I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. |
| I am accepted... | |
| John 1:12 | I am God's child. |
| John 15:15 | As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ. |
| Romans 5:1 | I have been justified. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:17 | I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit. |
| 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 | I have been bought with a price and I belong to God. |
| 1 Corinthians 12:27 | I am a member of Christ's body. |
| Ephesians 1:3-8 | I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child. |
| Colossians 1:13-14 | I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. |
| Colossians 2:9-10 | I am complete in Christ. |
| Hebrews 4:14-16 | I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. |
| I am secure... | |
| Romans 8:1-2 | I am free from condemnation. |
| Romans 8:28 | I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances. |
| Romans 8:31-39 | I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be separated from the love of God. |
| 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 | I have been established, anointed and sealed by God. |
| Colossians 3:1-4 | I am hidden with Christ in God. |
| Philippians 1:6 | I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me. |
| Philippians 3:20 | I am a citizen of heaven. |
| 2 Timothy 1:7 | I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. |
| 1 John 5:18 | I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me. |
| I am significant... | |
| John 15:5 | I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life. |
| John 15:16 | I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit. |
| 1 Corinthians 3:16 | I am God's temple. |
| 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 | I am a minister of reconciliation for God. |
| Ephesians 2:6 | I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm. |
| Ephesians 2:10 | I am God's workmanship. |
| Ephesians 3:12 | I may approach God with freedom and confidence. |
| Philippians 4:13 | I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. |
Monday, March 14, 2011
Hand in hand
I would like to share with you a poem I read in my devotions this morning. The last 3 days I have had the flu, and with that the doubts seem to come a little more easily. It probably didn't help that this past week marks the leaving of full time ministry. Actually today was the day we arrived "back" and first saw our house in person!! Very thankful for the changes a year has made to this house! I know that I have kept my hand in His and need to keep trusting that the sadness ( darkness) will eventually lose all its strength!!
The day had gone; alone and weak
I groped my way within a bleak
And sunless land.
The path that led into the light
I could not find! In that dark night
God took my hand.
He led me that I might not stray,
And brought me by a new, safe way
I had not known
By waters still, through pastures green
I followed Him-the path was clean
Of briar and stone
The heavy darkness lost its strength,
My waiting eyes beheld at length
The streaking dawn.
On, safely on, through sunrise glow
I walked, my hand in His, and lo,
The night had gone.
Annie Porter Johnson
Maybe you can relate, you have something you are going through. Keep holding His hand ,believing He will guide you through.
With Grace,
Jen
The day had gone; alone and weak
I groped my way within a bleak
And sunless land.
The path that led into the light
I could not find! In that dark night
God took my hand.
He led me that I might not stray,
And brought me by a new, safe way
I had not known
By waters still, through pastures green
I followed Him-the path was clean
Of briar and stone
The heavy darkness lost its strength,
My waiting eyes beheld at length
The streaking dawn.
On, safely on, through sunrise glow
I walked, my hand in His, and lo,
The night had gone.
Annie Porter Johnson
Maybe you can relate, you have something you are going through. Keep holding His hand ,believing He will guide you through.
With Grace,
Jen
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Resting Places
Well, I have had alot of thoughts for a blog, but just haven't had time to collect them all. Then this morning as I was doing my devotions I came across this quote which stood out to me, so I will blog on it instead.
It stated, " God provides resting places as well as working places. Rest then, and be thankful when He brings you, wearied to a wayside well."
This week marks our one year anniversary of leaving full ministry. Lots of thoughts and feelings come with that. One that I have been having is that I want to be back in full time ministry. But... this creates conflict as I know my family needs a time of stability and more time with their mom and dad. I believe in this devotion God is once again reminding me ( the stubborn one that doesn't get it the first or seventh time!) that He has provided this time of rest in our Hillier Haven. This is from His hand and it is where I need to be for this time. The devotion went on to say that out of these times of being patient, even when you don't understand why you were taken from some ministry, that He will provide even more opportunity in the future for ministry. Of course I still have a lot of questions as to why does our family get rest and others don't? Why didn't God provide us with encouragement and help so we could have stayed in ministry and still been a healthy family? These are questions that I probably will never have the answers for.This is where I have to trust that God's hand is upon my family and He knows best!!
I am thankful for the support and love that have been given to us here. God knew we would could heal best here.
What is happening in your world? Where is God placing you today? Where do you see His hand on your life?
I will end with a favorite chorus of mine that just popped in my head
I'm in His hand, I'm in His hands
Whatever the future hold
I'm in His hands
The days I cannot see, have all been planned for me
His way is best you see, I'm in His hands
Love and prayers,
Jen
It stated, " God provides resting places as well as working places. Rest then, and be thankful when He brings you, wearied to a wayside well."
This week marks our one year anniversary of leaving full ministry. Lots of thoughts and feelings come with that. One that I have been having is that I want to be back in full time ministry. But... this creates conflict as I know my family needs a time of stability and more time with their mom and dad. I believe in this devotion God is once again reminding me ( the stubborn one that doesn't get it the first or seventh time!) that He has provided this time of rest in our Hillier Haven. This is from His hand and it is where I need to be for this time. The devotion went on to say that out of these times of being patient, even when you don't understand why you were taken from some ministry, that He will provide even more opportunity in the future for ministry. Of course I still have a lot of questions as to why does our family get rest and others don't? Why didn't God provide us with encouragement and help so we could have stayed in ministry and still been a healthy family? These are questions that I probably will never have the answers for.This is where I have to trust that God's hand is upon my family and He knows best!!
I am thankful for the support and love that have been given to us here. God knew we would could heal best here.
What is happening in your world? Where is God placing you today? Where do you see His hand on your life?
I will end with a favorite chorus of mine that just popped in my head
I'm in His hand, I'm in His hands
Whatever the future hold
I'm in His hands
The days I cannot see, have all been planned for me
His way is best you see, I'm in His hands
Love and prayers,
Jen
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
mIrror mirror on the wall
http://youtu.be/dsptGe50J40
Good morning. I hope that link works. Still trying to figure this all out!! It is a link to Barlow Girl's song Mirror. I just heard it for the first time on the radio yesterday. The words really struck home for me and made me think. I have been faciliatating groups for young teen girls and spending alot of time around all ages of youth and it saddens me to see how much pressure they have. Pressures to live up to the world's expectations and how they think they need to be in order to popular or just fit in. Then I thought even about myself, battling this middle age spread and thought it really doesn't matter what age you are, you still look in the mirror and judge yourself. So much is decided about a person by their outward appearance whether you like to admit it or not. I think if we are honest with ourselves we could say this is true no matter what age we are. You definately see this in the world. Even the video only shows thin girls. It would have been nice to see an image of all types of bodies, but that is not how the world is. Recently I was going through a teen magainzine of my daughters. There was ONE girl that was not thin and it was advertising a new show called Huge. How sad!!! It is not much different for the adult magaizines. People is full of hollywood stars in their forties that are thin!! How do they do it? Does no one battle middle age spread? Even the diet commercials have people on there saying I was a size 10 , now I am a 2!!! I would be okay to be size 10!! Since when are we suppose to be size two!!??
Now some may say they are healthier. Well I have been learning alot about healthy eating and lifestyles. Those that look thin may not be so healthy. Thankfully the social and health agencies are realising we need to teach our young people that it is about balance. It is about eating the right amount of foods, still enjoying the treats every now and then, and putting some activity in their lives. It is not about dieting. That is a bad word now. It is balance.
What if you are meant to be size 14 at 40? Eating properly, eating balanced meals ( not dieting, no cottage cheese please!!) Exercising some which can mean going for a walk a couple of times a week, taking the stairs. For some of us it comes down to our genes. I have been told many times over I look just like my mom. I have her genes and no matter what I do I will not be the thin little thing I was as a teenager. Some are born thinnier and will not have a problem weight while others of us will. I would hope that my kids also see me like my mom who loves her kids and would do anything for them, often giving up her own wants for them.
If we all, no matter our age could stop and see ourselves in God's eyes instead of the worlds and even our own how much better would be feel!!
The song is beautiful as it states:
Mirror I am seeing a new reflection
I'm looking into the eyes
of He who made me
And to Him I have beauty beyond compare
I know He defines me
We are the apple of his eye!! We are beautiful to him. Psalm 17:8 states that God will keep us, "as the apple of His eye."
He loves us for who we are you. He sees the perfect 10 on each of us! With Him we can know that we have worth. He sees the good in us and wants us to know that we are loved for who we are, not for what the outside looks like.
I continue to come to terms with this change of body that middle age has presented me, trying hard not to let the world's view bring me down, believing that I am beautiful in His eyes. I hope you can do the same!!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
Good morning. I hope that link works. Still trying to figure this all out!! It is a link to Barlow Girl's song Mirror. I just heard it for the first time on the radio yesterday. The words really struck home for me and made me think. I have been faciliatating groups for young teen girls and spending alot of time around all ages of youth and it saddens me to see how much pressure they have. Pressures to live up to the world's expectations and how they think they need to be in order to popular or just fit in. Then I thought even about myself, battling this middle age spread and thought it really doesn't matter what age you are, you still look in the mirror and judge yourself. So much is decided about a person by their outward appearance whether you like to admit it or not. I think if we are honest with ourselves we could say this is true no matter what age we are. You definately see this in the world. Even the video only shows thin girls. It would have been nice to see an image of all types of bodies, but that is not how the world is. Recently I was going through a teen magainzine of my daughters. There was ONE girl that was not thin and it was advertising a new show called Huge. How sad!!! It is not much different for the adult magaizines. People is full of hollywood stars in their forties that are thin!! How do they do it? Does no one battle middle age spread? Even the diet commercials have people on there saying I was a size 10 , now I am a 2!!! I would be okay to be size 10!! Since when are we suppose to be size two!!??
Now some may say they are healthier. Well I have been learning alot about healthy eating and lifestyles. Those that look thin may not be so healthy. Thankfully the social and health agencies are realising we need to teach our young people that it is about balance. It is about eating the right amount of foods, still enjoying the treats every now and then, and putting some activity in their lives. It is not about dieting. That is a bad word now. It is balance.
What if you are meant to be size 14 at 40? Eating properly, eating balanced meals ( not dieting, no cottage cheese please!!) Exercising some which can mean going for a walk a couple of times a week, taking the stairs. For some of us it comes down to our genes. I have been told many times over I look just like my mom. I have her genes and no matter what I do I will not be the thin little thing I was as a teenager. Some are born thinnier and will not have a problem weight while others of us will. I would hope that my kids also see me like my mom who loves her kids and would do anything for them, often giving up her own wants for them.
If we all, no matter our age could stop and see ourselves in God's eyes instead of the worlds and even our own how much better would be feel!!
The song is beautiful as it states:
Mirror I am seeing a new reflection
I'm looking into the eyes
of He who made me
And to Him I have beauty beyond compare
I know He defines me
We are the apple of his eye!! We are beautiful to him. Psalm 17:8 states that God will keep us, "as the apple of His eye."
He loves us for who we are you. He sees the perfect 10 on each of us! With Him we can know that we have worth. He sees the good in us and wants us to know that we are loved for who we are, not for what the outside looks like.
I continue to come to terms with this change of body that middle age has presented me, trying hard not to let the world's view bring me down, believing that I am beautiful in His eyes. I hope you can do the same!!
Love and Prayers,
Jen Loner
Saturday, February 26, 2011
No accidents!!
Good morning, nearly afternoon! I love Saturday mornings of doing nothing!! It has been nice and quiet. Snow was falling so felt nice to be safe and snug in my house. Lots to get done ( like housework) but needed and wanted to start off slow!
My devotions this morning again were good. The one line that jumped out at me that I would like to share is taken from the book The Grip of Grace. It states, " With God in your world, you aren't an accident or an incident; you are a gift to the world, a divine work of art, signed by God."
To often I hear youth and adults say to me that they were an accident. Not planned and therefore they go through life believing that they were a mistake. Often this leads them to believe that they are not wanted and needed. How sad!! I have told both of my children that although Paul and I didn't plan them they were definitely not mistakes but surprises!! And a wonderful surprise at that!! I remember clearly finding out I was pregnant with Alica which was 7 years ahead of our planned schedule for a family! Not my plan but God's. What a blessing she has been. Then Cory my precious boy who's pregnancy was fairly easy and helped heal the hurt of losing the baby we had planned just before him. Because God knew better than me, I had my kids before leaving for college to be ministers. I needed alot of help with my babies because of my epilepsy. I could have never managed without our families help, especially grandma Cory. God knew!!
No matter what the circumstances of your birth were, you were not a mistake. You are God's and He loves and has plans for you. Read Psalm 139.
Another good quote from this devotion was, " We are significant, not because of what we do, but because of WHOSE we are."
My children are mine and I love them because they are mine. They are special because they are mine and Paul's. They are the only two that are just ours. They are part of us and that makes them special to me. They have been special since they were little and couldn't even talk or walk. The same is with God. We are special because He made us. We are His. We were special the minute we were born. Not because of anything we could do, but because He made us and we are His.
You are God's child. His signature is written on your life and that makes you special. Have you ever had something that somebody signed? It increases the value. It means something special. That is just like us. WE are special because God's signature is on our lives.
I hope today that you feel like you are special, that you know that your treasured by your God in heaven and that you know that you have a purpose. You were not an accident!!That He loves you for you... not for what you do but because He just loves you. All He wants is for you to reach out to Him. Doesn't matter if this may be a bad day for you and you need to reach out in anger, in tears. Or maybe today is a good day and you just want to say thank you Lord for this day. He just wants us to reach out to Him.
Believe He loves you and that you have worth!!!
Blessings,
Jen Loner
My devotions this morning again were good. The one line that jumped out at me that I would like to share is taken from the book The Grip of Grace. It states, " With God in your world, you aren't an accident or an incident; you are a gift to the world, a divine work of art, signed by God."
To often I hear youth and adults say to me that they were an accident. Not planned and therefore they go through life believing that they were a mistake. Often this leads them to believe that they are not wanted and needed. How sad!! I have told both of my children that although Paul and I didn't plan them they were definitely not mistakes but surprises!! And a wonderful surprise at that!! I remember clearly finding out I was pregnant with Alica which was 7 years ahead of our planned schedule for a family! Not my plan but God's. What a blessing she has been. Then Cory my precious boy who's pregnancy was fairly easy and helped heal the hurt of losing the baby we had planned just before him. Because God knew better than me, I had my kids before leaving for college to be ministers. I needed alot of help with my babies because of my epilepsy. I could have never managed without our families help, especially grandma Cory. God knew!!
No matter what the circumstances of your birth were, you were not a mistake. You are God's and He loves and has plans for you. Read Psalm 139.
Another good quote from this devotion was, " We are significant, not because of what we do, but because of WHOSE we are."
My children are mine and I love them because they are mine. They are special because they are mine and Paul's. They are the only two that are just ours. They are part of us and that makes them special to me. They have been special since they were little and couldn't even talk or walk. The same is with God. We are special because He made us. We are His. We were special the minute we were born. Not because of anything we could do, but because He made us and we are His.
You are God's child. His signature is written on your life and that makes you special. Have you ever had something that somebody signed? It increases the value. It means something special. That is just like us. WE are special because God's signature is on our lives.
I hope today that you feel like you are special, that you know that your treasured by your God in heaven and that you know that you have a purpose. You were not an accident!!That He loves you for you... not for what you do but because He just loves you. All He wants is for you to reach out to Him. Doesn't matter if this may be a bad day for you and you need to reach out in anger, in tears. Or maybe today is a good day and you just want to say thank you Lord for this day. He just wants us to reach out to Him.
Believe He loves you and that you have worth!!!
Blessings,
Jen Loner
Friday, February 25, 2011
Being and doing
Well, it has been a while since I posted anything. I have had alot of thoughts, however it has taken over a week to work through them. The sadness as I call it was really trying to take over my thoughts. Although in the midst of this we celebrated Cory's 14th birthday and enjoyed a good family weekend. I think that as I struggled, God continued to bless me with my family, showing me that I am loved,needed and most of all wanted. I am so grateful for them and love them dearly.
So... some of my struggles I will share. Maybe you can relate. We are at a place where we have to decided where to commit to a church. I have been struggling with not "doing." I grew up in the Salvation Army where doing is prominent. The Salvation Army is a wonderful organisation and church that is well know for its acts of kindness and giving. I loved being part of it. I have also felt like I was to help people so it was a good fit for me. There was always alot to do in the Army and still is. This past year of not "doing" in the way I am used to has proven to be hard for me. I do believe God is telling me he wants be to just "be" for this time. Just this morning my devotion was entitled BE Still. I have been praying that God would show be clearly where he wants my family to worship. I would love to go back to the Army and be part of worship. I know that there is ministry I could be part of. It would be familiar and that is how I always thought I pleased God. But there is still some healing to be done in my heart in regards to the Army. My family has enjoyed another church and are actually listening and liking the sermons. I think we all have hurts from the Army and although this is my home church, maybe I need to step back for a bit. One of my biggest prayers is that my kids will know God personally and want to worship and this seems to be more possible at another church for this time. Paul is so great to be patient and work through this with me. He just wants to do what is best for our family. Although it is hard for me to sit in the congregation, maybe that is what my kids need. For me to be there with them just as my heavenly Father just wants me to sit with Him. Maybe He is tired of watching me run around trying to impress Him with my works. He just wants my time just as I love when my kids just want to be home with me.
I felt like I was to look on my book shelf this morning. I told myself you are crazy, you know nearly every book on there, but I looked anyhow as when I have been told in the past to look there was a reason. Immediately my gaze fell to Max Lucado'sIn the Grip of Grace. I thought that is odd as I have not read all that book yet and it is on my favorite topics, Grace. So I start reading. He talks about 4 brothers. The jist of the parable taken from Romans is that only one brother accepts grace. When I was reading about the Legalistic brother I was floored to realise I could relate. Anyone who knows me knows I can't stand legalism. But Lucado points out that when we are legalistic we are trying to work our way to God's grace. This can either lead to despair or arrogance. I have never been able to stand those who stand up with chests puffed out saying look at how great I am and don't believe I fall into that category (although I think of have done this with God). But oh how I could relate to feeling despair. Despair that I will never gain God's favor, especially since I left full time ministry and most of all the Salvation Army. I know I should know better. I know my scriptures fairly well. I know what God's word says about grace and works ( as my husband pointed out to be last night) Our main theme in ministry has been preaching and most of all showing grace. Telling everyone else that God loves them just because but never taking it to heart for myself. But... years of thoughts are hard to change. Maybe that is one of the reasons we are in the season of change. For me to know that God's grace is free to me without works. So my heart will start to believe this! I hope this is true. Even as I write I am guarding my heart. Questioning in my head is it okay to enjoy this time with my kids, to make them and Paul my priority? To love the kids at the ROC?To care for the women and kids at the shelter and Bayfield? Is this enough? The thought that just popped into my head is it is fine even without those jobs. I think maybe God doesn't need be to there but has given them to me as He knows my heart and the desire to care for others.
Hmmm, lots of thoughts. Some may think I am crazy and that is okay. Some days I feel like I am!! But writing honestly helps me and maybe there is someone else out there struggling with this same issue of being and doing. If so I hope and pray you are able to work it out with your God. Thankfully He is patient and just wants to hear from us.
Just some thoughts from my little Haven in Hillier that I am truly grateful for!
Blessings,
Jen
So... some of my struggles I will share. Maybe you can relate. We are at a place where we have to decided where to commit to a church. I have been struggling with not "doing." I grew up in the Salvation Army where doing is prominent. The Salvation Army is a wonderful organisation and church that is well know for its acts of kindness and giving. I loved being part of it. I have also felt like I was to help people so it was a good fit for me. There was always alot to do in the Army and still is. This past year of not "doing" in the way I am used to has proven to be hard for me. I do believe God is telling me he wants be to just "be" for this time. Just this morning my devotion was entitled BE Still. I have been praying that God would show be clearly where he wants my family to worship. I would love to go back to the Army and be part of worship. I know that there is ministry I could be part of. It would be familiar and that is how I always thought I pleased God. But there is still some healing to be done in my heart in regards to the Army. My family has enjoyed another church and are actually listening and liking the sermons. I think we all have hurts from the Army and although this is my home church, maybe I need to step back for a bit. One of my biggest prayers is that my kids will know God personally and want to worship and this seems to be more possible at another church for this time. Paul is so great to be patient and work through this with me. He just wants to do what is best for our family. Although it is hard for me to sit in the congregation, maybe that is what my kids need. For me to be there with them just as my heavenly Father just wants me to sit with Him. Maybe He is tired of watching me run around trying to impress Him with my works. He just wants my time just as I love when my kids just want to be home with me.
I felt like I was to look on my book shelf this morning. I told myself you are crazy, you know nearly every book on there, but I looked anyhow as when I have been told in the past to look there was a reason. Immediately my gaze fell to Max Lucado'sIn the Grip of Grace. I thought that is odd as I have not read all that book yet and it is on my favorite topics, Grace. So I start reading. He talks about 4 brothers. The jist of the parable taken from Romans is that only one brother accepts grace. When I was reading about the Legalistic brother I was floored to realise I could relate. Anyone who knows me knows I can't stand legalism. But Lucado points out that when we are legalistic we are trying to work our way to God's grace. This can either lead to despair or arrogance. I have never been able to stand those who stand up with chests puffed out saying look at how great I am and don't believe I fall into that category (although I think of have done this with God). But oh how I could relate to feeling despair. Despair that I will never gain God's favor, especially since I left full time ministry and most of all the Salvation Army. I know I should know better. I know my scriptures fairly well. I know what God's word says about grace and works ( as my husband pointed out to be last night) Our main theme in ministry has been preaching and most of all showing grace. Telling everyone else that God loves them just because but never taking it to heart for myself. But... years of thoughts are hard to change. Maybe that is one of the reasons we are in the season of change. For me to know that God's grace is free to me without works. So my heart will start to believe this! I hope this is true. Even as I write I am guarding my heart. Questioning in my head is it okay to enjoy this time with my kids, to make them and Paul my priority? To love the kids at the ROC?To care for the women and kids at the shelter and Bayfield? Is this enough? The thought that just popped into my head is it is fine even without those jobs. I think maybe God doesn't need be to there but has given them to me as He knows my heart and the desire to care for others.
Hmmm, lots of thoughts. Some may think I am crazy and that is okay. Some days I feel like I am!! But writing honestly helps me and maybe there is someone else out there struggling with this same issue of being and doing. If so I hope and pray you are able to work it out with your God. Thankfully He is patient and just wants to hear from us.
Just some thoughts from my little Haven in Hillier that I am truly grateful for!
Blessings,
Jen
Monday, February 14, 2011
We are all loved!! Valentines thought
I am so blessed to be loved by Paul and the kids, extended family and friends. Yet still sometimes I feel sad and doubt the love my God has for me, especially these last few months with so many changes in our life, changes I did not expect or want. I find that no matter how much those around me love me, I need to know that my God loves me most of all. Satan is good at getting in our thoughts. He wants us to doubt the love that God has for each one of us. He wants us to believe that we have to be certain way, have a certain job, have a certain past etc... before our God will truly love us. One of my favorite books is by Henri Nouwen "The Return of the Prodigal Son." When we arrived back in Ontario I found that there was a devotional that goes with it "Home Tonight." This devotional helped remind be that God just wants us to be in a relationship with Him first and foremost. I would highly recommend it! Even though I am in God's word regularly I still can doubt. But God is so good. He keeps reminding me how much He loves me!!! Whether I am an officer in the Salvation Army or youth worker in Picton!!!
The song I just posted today reminded me how special we are. Whether you are the person who really doesn't believe you are special because you have heard different all your life, whether you are the teen who feels alone and like no one cares or sees your hurt, the middle aged person wondering if this is all there is to life and does anyone see or care or the elderly who feels forgotten... We all need to be reminded this Valentines Day that we are chosen, we are special and most of all we are loved. None of us have to be alone! We have a God who does see and does care. Whether we have made mistakes or not, no matter what age we are or what we do, God wants to come into our lives!! He desires to see his children feeling loved and cared for. We have to be willing to believe, admit we need him and accept His love. When we do believe, as His people, we are to show each other this love. I am thankful for wonderful people that God has used to care for me, to remind me that He cares. I hope today that if you are reading this that you take it to heart. YOU ARE LOVED!! Lets go out and share this love today! Happy Valentines Day!
The song I just posted today reminded me how special we are. Whether you are the person who really doesn't believe you are special because you have heard different all your life, whether you are the teen who feels alone and like no one cares or sees your hurt, the middle aged person wondering if this is all there is to life and does anyone see or care or the elderly who feels forgotten... We all need to be reminded this Valentines Day that we are chosen, we are special and most of all we are loved. None of us have to be alone! We have a God who does see and does care. Whether we have made mistakes or not, no matter what age we are or what we do, God wants to come into our lives!! He desires to see his children feeling loved and cared for. We have to be willing to believe, admit we need him and accept His love. When we do believe, as His people, we are to show each other this love. I am thankful for wonderful people that God has used to care for me, to remind me that He cares. I hope today that if you are reading this that you take it to heart. YOU ARE LOVED!! Lets go out and share this love today! Happy Valentines Day!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Storms
Being my first real blog I thought that would clarify why I am doing this. I want this to be a place where we can come and share honestly with each other. I don't want this to be like facebook where we just write everyday little thoughts without being real with each other. Facebook is great for just keeping track of friends, but I want this for those who may need real authetic sharing of information. My prayer would be that we can respect each others feelings and thoughts with an open mind and non judgemental attitude. Lets use this to support each other and be real. If you disagree with my post great. Lets dialouge with grace. If you can relate then share also and we can pray for each other. I want this for all ages.
My first thought is taken from my devotion this morning.
"Jesus Christ is no security AGAINST storms, but He is perfect security in storms. He has never promised you an easy passage, only safe landing."
Taken from devotional " Streams in the desert."
We have had our fair share of winter storms this season here in Ontario. It feels like each one I ended up working in Belleville at night which means driving on side roads where you can't see in front of you. Can be a little scary and nerve wracking. One such night I almost stopped at my sisters even though I was nearly home. But I didn't because I so wanted the safety and warmth of my own home. I had a destination to reach and wasn't going to allow the storm to stop me. I knew the road well and just had to take it easy and be extra careful.
As I think about this I think this is like life. We have seasons of stormy like weather. Where the road seems hidden and we are scared. For me that is what the last few months have felt like. There have been moments of some clarity but then like the storms some wind(or thought or circumstance in life, doubt) picks up and it once again I can't see in front of me. I can choose in these storms to quit believing in my God who loves me and has a place for me in heaven or I can choose to keep believing, having faith. This may mean slowing down in life so speak, taking more time with God so I have the strength to keep on the journey even though I cannot see in front of me. It may also mean that I can't be as busy as I would like. That some changes are needed in my life so that I can continue walking with Him. Thankfully I do know that Jesus is with me as my guide and he knows the way when I can't see. I am still battling the doubts as to why the storm in the first place. I have no answer for that other than we live in a fallen world and we are given free choice so of course there will be storms. Whether it is sickness, abuse, injustice or whatever the storm may be it is still hard and can make us wonder about our faith. For me to not believe doesn't seem to be a choice for me. Those days become too dark. I need prayer and His word.Believe me I have tried in these past few months to say I don't need God but it doesn't work. Just when I think it could be true someone comes to me and reminds me how loved I am by them and by God, or finances work out just when needed. When I look around at how my God provided a haven, a rest for our weary hearts I can't say that it is coincidence or just because I have had wonderful help from family ( although that is such a blessing and so grateful!). I have to believe that our Haven here in Hillier is from God. That He loves me that much that He knew exactly what I needed. I don't feel like I am out of the storm yet. Still have hurts to heal and things to work out in my heart. Also hopefully alot more years to come that will bring other storms, but I do know that Jesus is my security through it and He has kept me safe so far.
As I write I would like to be honest. Today is a good day which is great becasue lately there has not been many of those. Yes life has been okay and all is going well, I am still able to love and care for my family. I like my jobs I have. But I am talking about my heart. I think we often mask our feelings with each other in fear that people will think less of us or honestly gossip about us. I just have some heart things to work through. Hopefully we will be able to journey together being open and honest, no judgements just love and support.
My first thought is taken from my devotion this morning.
"Jesus Christ is no security AGAINST storms, but He is perfect security in storms. He has never promised you an easy passage, only safe landing."
Taken from devotional " Streams in the desert."
We have had our fair share of winter storms this season here in Ontario. It feels like each one I ended up working in Belleville at night which means driving on side roads where you can't see in front of you. Can be a little scary and nerve wracking. One such night I almost stopped at my sisters even though I was nearly home. But I didn't because I so wanted the safety and warmth of my own home. I had a destination to reach and wasn't going to allow the storm to stop me. I knew the road well and just had to take it easy and be extra careful.
As I think about this I think this is like life. We have seasons of stormy like weather. Where the road seems hidden and we are scared. For me that is what the last few months have felt like. There have been moments of some clarity but then like the storms some wind(or thought or circumstance in life, doubt) picks up and it once again I can't see in front of me. I can choose in these storms to quit believing in my God who loves me and has a place for me in heaven or I can choose to keep believing, having faith. This may mean slowing down in life so speak, taking more time with God so I have the strength to keep on the journey even though I cannot see in front of me. It may also mean that I can't be as busy as I would like. That some changes are needed in my life so that I can continue walking with Him. Thankfully I do know that Jesus is with me as my guide and he knows the way when I can't see. I am still battling the doubts as to why the storm in the first place. I have no answer for that other than we live in a fallen world and we are given free choice so of course there will be storms. Whether it is sickness, abuse, injustice or whatever the storm may be it is still hard and can make us wonder about our faith. For me to not believe doesn't seem to be a choice for me. Those days become too dark. I need prayer and His word.Believe me I have tried in these past few months to say I don't need God but it doesn't work. Just when I think it could be true someone comes to me and reminds me how loved I am by them and by God, or finances work out just when needed. When I look around at how my God provided a haven, a rest for our weary hearts I can't say that it is coincidence or just because I have had wonderful help from family ( although that is such a blessing and so grateful!). I have to believe that our Haven here in Hillier is from God. That He loves me that much that He knew exactly what I needed. I don't feel like I am out of the storm yet. Still have hurts to heal and things to work out in my heart. Also hopefully alot more years to come that will bring other storms, but I do know that Jesus is my security through it and He has kept me safe so far.
As I write I would like to be honest. Today is a good day which is great becasue lately there has not been many of those. Yes life has been okay and all is going well, I am still able to love and care for my family. I like my jobs I have. But I am talking about my heart. I think we often mask our feelings with each other in fear that people will think less of us or honestly gossip about us. I just have some heart things to work through. Hopefully we will be able to journey together being open and honest, no judgements just love and support.
Getting started
I thought that I could start a blog to share with you my journey as I travel through this season of life. I thought that maybe there are others out there in whatever season you are in, struggling with some of the same questions. Hoping that this may be a source of encouragement for others and also a tool of healing for myself. Still trying to figure out how blogs work so bear with me. I am not a professional writer but do want to share what I feel God is saying to us and our world today.
Love and Prayers
Jen
Love and Prayers
Jen
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