At the Start of This Week....

At the start of this week...

Should you feel alone, abandoned, or confused...remember that the Lord Jesus desires to hold you close. Turn to Him now...He is a gentleman and won't force His way into your life unless you extend an open hand and surrender your plans for His. James 4:8, Romans 12:1-2

Should find yourself up against overwhelming circumstances...place them into the One who is greater than anything you can face. Next...wait quietly for what He might have you do or not do in your situation. He holds you close and you don't have to walk this way alone. Hebrews 13:5

Should you find yourself feeling irritated, impatient, or agitated with someone...Truly! Take a minute to laugh at yourself! Talk to the Lord and shake it off! The irritation you are facing is nothing in the light of God's unfailing love and joy for you. LOL! Get over yourself and let the Lord's joy overflow your soul to the person who may seem difficult. He holds you close. Galatians 5:22-23

This is a week of new beginnings, hopes that will be realized, and miracles to watch for. Keep your eyes open, your heart tender, and your mind from distraction. This week will be awesome in Jesus because Who is in you is greater than anything! 
(1 John 4:4)

photo: Lauren Conrad

Desert and Wilderness (nope!)

Anyone in a…wilderness time in your life? Or, a desert season?

Seems like I spent several years in one or the other. No…not totally barren, dry, or drought-ridden in my soul. The Lord moved much during those times. Nevertheless, I seemed more often to be dry in the Spirit…rather than…drenched in Him.

Know what I am talking about?

“The poor and needy seek water, but there is none,

Their tongues fail for thirst. I, the LORD, will hear them;

I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.

I will open rivers in desolate heights,

And fountains in the midst of the valleys;

I will make the wilderness a pool of water,

And the dry land springs of water.”

Isaiah 41:17-18

Really…we don’t have to live in the desert or the wilderness. It really isn’t to be found in God’s Word, especially in the prophet Isaiah’s book and all of Paul’s letter (let alone the four Gospels!).

Whatever state you are in…God will meet you their. Your circumstances may be dry or barren, but your soul and spirit don’t have to be. Really. This is where Christianity meets the highway of real life.

So…go back to full, total surrender…of everything. Literally. Everything. Don’t try to make your own way and listen carefully for the Lord’s direction. Spend time in His presence alone and with His Word. And see…if you don’t hear and feel the raindrops of His Spirit start to quench your heart, right where you are at.

photo: Shop Style