I really did not want to write today. At least NOT in my flesh, anyway. But, my spirit always wins out, no matter how I “feel.” I like to write when I feel upbeat and encouraged. But, I was commanded to do so now, so here we go. Just bare with me, because I have been crying for hours.

I don’t know why I am weeping. The tears just started, and won’t stop. I get tired of people telling me I am depressed. That lie has been told to me since I was born. I am a warrior and intercessor. All of our children are as well. It just is the life we live. It is one where almost 100% of the time, someone misunderstands us. But, it is just our existence.

Often, we never know what is coming next. I say this, not to gain anyone’s understanding or even compassion. It is simply a fact. So many have said, “You choose the life you live, or the hand you are dealt.” But, for some that is just not true. For some, a few it is chosen before you ever take your first breath on earth. It is not like you got to choose. Your destiny is quite frankly, “called to suffer.”

People often say, “Don’t lose your faith.” But, they do not even remotely get that is NOT possible. Because, even that does NOT belong to you. I know this is a more passionate entry, because it is about how we HEAL through the LOVE of Jesus. Do we really honestly believe that we can stop the plans of God? Because, neither we nor satan can stop what God desires.

Can we complicate the process, yes. But, can it actually be aborted? Heaven’s NO it cannot be stopped, because God’s LOVE exists to conquer evil. So many are so confined and trapped in prisons, that they do not even see. My heart aches for them. Jesus’s heart aches for them. If you REALLY know Jesus, you grieve with Him.

So many have said to me, “I wish I had your faith.” I think to myself, “Me too.” Everything I have and AM belongs to Jesus. “It’s like I am standing in the middle of the room screaming, and no one even looks up.”That is a line from the movie. One of my favorites. I remember seeing this, and thinking, “God sees you.” If I’m really being RAW about it all, I can say I thought one other thing. It was pretty simple. The thought that crossed my mind was, “I feel like that too.” Don’t we understand that WE have grace to feel? That God wants us to express ourselves, but in a way that is meant for healing and NOT destruction.

Faith by Jesus’s LOVE is all about, everything being directed back to Him. I often wonder why it takes such severe circumstances, for God to get our attention.

God has a habit of waking me early. Today, He was particularly merciful to me. Instead of waking at 3 or 5, He waited until close to 7. Was wrapping up a good dream, and was happy to awaken. I woke up, thankful, sleepy and ready for whatever He chose. My head, heart and spirit is so full of life today.

Now, don’t get me wrong. That  does not mean, I woke up, naturally feeling great. But, what I know is, it is so WORTH it, to come inside Jesus’s world. So here I sit, before His throne. Come and join me, won’t you? It is time for a glimpse into the world of Heavenly Eternal.

Inside Jesus’s world, it is always peaceful. But, we’ll get back to that. The intent here, is not necessarily to compare. More to reveal what is rare and precious to our amazing God. Stay with me, because it is about to get good. 😉 He speaks a lot in the mornings.

I asked the LORD, “What would you like others to know about your world?” His answer was simple. He said, “In my world there is LOVE. It is not love as your world knows. But, it is LOVE that is real. There is nothing false in my world. ”

He’s taking this post a whole new direction. I thought, that this was going to be about a movie we saw. We’ll get to that part, in a moment. The movie was about THIS world, and what happens when it works apart from God. But, before we go there, let’s focus on the LOVE.

“When I was a child, I thought like a child. But, then I became a man, and put away childish ways.” This is scripture, from the word of God. He talks to us, about His life. Jesus never apologized for who He was, and is. So, why do we? Especially, when WE are willing vessels, for His Glory to shine. We must stop apologizing for the LOVE of God arriving.

Looking back to the Garden of Eden, when the choice was made, to betray God; we see clearly several things. One, immediately, they felt guilty. Why? Because the decision was life altering. Two, that guilt and condemnation was a generational curse. The curses took roots, through the agreement with the enemy.

So, what happened when the agreement was changed? Well, first there was discipline for His kids. Why did God discipline them? Why does He discipline US today? The answer is simple. He LOVES us. The word of God states, “He disciplines those He loves.”  God’s LOVE itself is not conditional. But, receiving the LOVE, is conditional. There is a reason. If WE are not willing to walk away from the enemy’s plans, WE will NEVER fully receive the plans of God.

Now, to the movie that He led us to watch. We watched “Jurassic World.” This movie was interesting. It shows the torment that the world is currently battling. Why were people killed by these creatures? Because they were afraid, and they gave into that fear. You might say, they were married to the fear. It was what was leading the way for them.

Those that were the lead characters, were led by passion and purpose. Ultimately, they were not just trying to survive and conquer. They wanted to SAVE the people that they loved. It was not a perfect film. But, it sure did have a lot in it. Starting at the beginning, it began in a lab.

Therein, begins the problem. These people were trying desperately to create. Yet, not even bothering to consult the REAL creator. They created a world, from another world, that was before. Don’t we see that all around us? I don’t know about you, but I have noticed quite a few “mini worlds.” The film centers on a theme park. A place built to bring joy, they say, but really at the core is about MONEY.

No place that is made for that purpose, in God’s eyes is a success. However, that does NOT mean, that God cannot and will not move there. Because, God is not limited by anything. We can temporarily stop blessings from arriving. But, we cannot and will NOT ever stop God, or His LOVE. Not even the enemy can do that.

In this film, the man who is the hero, has a bond with the dinosaurs. I saw this, as compassion. It is a major aspect of LOVE. If we do not have that, we are a clanging symbol. We have a pointless existence without LOVE. If you have ever felt useless, worthless, like there was no reason for living; love may be missing.

In the end, the children are the ones who have the answers. Please take note of this. That is scriptural. To let the “Little children come to HIM.” He says, “Let nothing hinder them, because the KINGDOM of Heaven is made of such as these.” The child in us, is what taps into Jesus. But, we have been taught not to feed that. We have been taught in error. Jesus desires us to have child like faith, yet to allow HIM authority. This means, that we have faith of a child, and even renewed and redeemed experiences. But, when it is time, we put away childish ways.

In the film, what is interesting, is the evil creature, that usually would destroy the people, destroys the OTHER evil creature. It destroys the one, who is trying to take it’s job. In psalm 37 it refers to evil. Specifically it states, “The wicked will destroy themselves.” Also, what I thought of, was as the team was united, the enemy became the footstool.

I also thought of the book of Esther. In this book God’s name is never mentioned. Yet, as one theologian pointed out. His name is clearly ON the book. This movie, I don’t believe ever mentions God. But, He was clearly present in a way, that should become more obvious. Especially for those of us, who go on a God hunt every single day.

So, here is my question. Are you looking for a way into Jesus’s world? In the film there are 4 people who conquer. The number 4 stands for Biblically, creative miracle in the earth. These heroes, are the starts of this film. But, who are you? Are you a conqueror? If you are hidden in Jesus, you most definitely ARE.

But, if you are stuck in bitterness, and hopelessness, grief, despair, unforgiveness, and anything else that is unholy, you will stay there. You have to ASK for a way out. You must seek HIS ways. He will come and rescue you. He is here, and waiting. Have you said YES to HIM? Because, if you have, then it is NOT too late. He can and will redeem the time. Why, will He do this? Because He LOVES YOU.

He is not focusing on every sin, or mistake. He sees the flaws that we have as intricacies. He developed each of us, as a special and unique gift. He just wants our mistakes, and brokenness surrendered before HIM. Because, then, WE can participate MORE with HIS world.

There comes a time, when you know the word of God. But, you may not KNOW God. It is then, that He will bring you out into the ocean of the world, and SHOW OUT. He will prove HIMSELF to you, because HE LOVES you. SO, I say to you, keep believing, and receiving, the GOOD. Not, from a way that you ignore the bad. But, more from a place of KNOWING and be able to REST in the facts.

The facts are, that in JESUS’s world, death leads to resurrection and new life. In His world, He always wins. He NEVER sleeps or slumbers. The enemy is already defeated there, and is NOT allowed entry. In Jesus’s world, everyone gets along, and works in holiness and Heavenly unity. In His world, there is freedom 100% of the time. Shouldn’t we live there? In the land that HE promised, is where His world resides. It is finished, and WE don’t have to worry. But, WE do have to obey the plans of God.

If you have chaos in your life, and there is no peace. Then, the fact is, the REAL Jesus, does not have full authority there. SO, the wisdom is to seek HIM for the changes. They will be good, in the end. But, that does not mean that they will not, at times hurt like hell. Because, suffering here, through Jesus, is an honor to Him. If you know the weapons of warfare, but they sit on the floor, and never get use; expect attacks.

But, if you are allowing JESUS to fight for you, and through you, then the peace will NOT stay hidden forever. The more you THANK HIM and praise HIM, the more you will notice the manifestations of HIS GLORY. Come visit Jesus’s world. He created it for you. He desires you to move in, and take up residency there. It is a GREAT place to live, and the ONLY place that WE can survive and thrive. The ticket into His world, is repentance. Will you come inside today?

This title, just has so much in it. First off, the enemy, as we know can come in like a flood. It can just feel like a storm of chaos at times. I think WE all can agree on that. But, HERE is the best part about God. HIS power, for the purpose of GOOD, puts satan’s attempts to flight. The fact is, that most of us were simply taught a lot of error. Not going to blame anyone. It is just true.

We need to KNOW, not just believe God will fight for us. In the movie “Hitch” the main character talks about LOVE. The way He speaks of it, is mostly how the world defines it. There is a scene where He points to HIS gut. He says, “I feel it down deep, like in THIS area.” Do we digest God’s LOVE? I mean, DO WE? Because, it would be wonderful to say that, each time we get hugs and kisses, we thank God. I can’t say that I always have. In fact, to be really transparent, I RAN AWAY from the LOVE of GOD, for years.

It is so funny, how God works. He knows EXACTLY what WE need and when WE need it. I started this blog article, by His Grace, days ago. I had a plan to come back and finish that day. BUT GOD. You see, HE has NO limitations. WE as HIS kids, have NO LIMITS through HIM, and HIS LOVE. He reminded me, again, as He does daily, that I, nor anyone else, can MESS up HIS plans. Isn’t that incredible to know? That, as WE stay repentant before GOD and in full surrender to HIS will, HEavEN will eventually arrive. WHAT A PROMISE!!!!!

Every day, ever since I can remember, I have been JUst consumed by the LOVe of God. Let me be VERY clear, this does not mean it felt good. There were times that because of this consumption, I was pulled into VERY dark places. Even at that time, He was using me to plant seeds of HIS LOVE, and to rescue. I don’t think I was aware of that then. Looking back on my past, from HIS perspective, and seeing it ALL had purpose, only recently has comforted me.

God’s LOVE is like a tornado, an earth quake, a volcano erupting, a tsunami, a hurricane, a plane crash, a car crash, and everything else that the world considers a disaster. I have NEVER experienced it, to the degree, that I and WE, did in 2013. It was the day, that it felt like the MUSIC died in our lives. I had a vision, and in the vision, I saw a HUGE tornado. I was standing outside the tornado, and I was watching. I remember seeing a vision of all those who had been considered enemies, and the plans they had to destroy. Again, but God. Then, I saw a vision of the Lion of Judah, a Holy Rainbow Flame representing Holy Spirit and the Incredibly bright light, to represent the Heavenly Father. I saw our family in a gold circle. Later, that circle, would turn to fire. I will never forget what was said to me. The LORD spoke and said, “No matter what THIS LOOKS like I WIN.”

Lots of people say that they follow God. But, Jesus commands us to TEST the spirits. Another way of saying this, is to look at the fruit. The vision I had reminded me, that my JOB is to LOVE. To always forgive, especially when undeserved, and to KEEP speaking blessings and JOY upon every one WE come in contact with. Even if, those people are sent on assignment for evil, God can move. HIS hand is NOT too short. It NEVER will be.

Many of YOU, may be standing outside watching the twister, like I was. But, I say this to you about the LOVE of God. It will pull you INTO the storm. You know why??? Because inside the STORMS, is where HIS rescue takes place. FOLLOW the PEACE of JESUS. It is NOT like any other that exists. It is HIS PEACE that anchors us to HIS desires. It TRULY surpasses ALL other understanding. It was and IS His peace that carries us. It causes us to reach up and out every day to God, and THROUGH HIM.

Lord, we repent for things known and unknown. We thank YOU for the storms in our lives. YOU Jesus, are so faithful!!!!! Help us, to receive MORE of Heaven. To be not religious, or forceful and fearful. Help us to EMBRACE your LOVE. To the VERY fullest, make us to overflow LORD JESUS. In Your Holy name, and blood. The name of Jesus REIGNS supreme. AMEN

The day I mentioned, the one where the music seemed to die, was the day our youngest daughter went HOME to be with Jesus. WE will always be her parents. I told my husband that, just the other day. But, WE are still here, and WE, through the power of GOD, must move forward. HIS LOVE wins every battle set before us. Because of what JESUS endured on a cross, in Calvary, WE can CHOOSE HOLY FREEDOM.

It is time, to NOT be afraid of HIS LOVE in you anymore. It is TIME to not be afraid of HIs LOVE, in HIS babies anymore. RECEIVE it! Yes sometimes, just to be real with you, it WILL hurt like HELL. But, JESUS has made promises, and HE will KEEP them. WE will see them, sooner than we thought. HE IS FAITHFUL. Through the STORMS, HIS LOVE will RAIN. He is Sovereign, and I thank GOD for HIS REIGN in our lives.

In His Grace and GLORY,

E and Fam

Who wants a happily every after???? If you asked me, as a child I would have raised my hand. I would have said, “I DO I DO!!!!!” I think WE ALL do, deep down inside. 🙂 When this topic came to me, I was somewhat excited, but yet trepidacious.  Always passionate, about sharing what He gives me. But, battling 100% confidence that it will be received well. So, back to Happy Ever After. 🙂 Is that not what the world teaches us? That we deserve it, that WE should make it happen, or something like that. Has anyone ever said, “Happily EVER After belongs to Jesus?” Cause it absolutely DOES.

I remember Sarah would say to me, “I just want a HAPPY family.” I would think to myself, “THAT is ALL I have ever wanted. At that time, I felt like, it would NEVER happen. In fact, though that should be our aim, through the LOVE of Christ, do we believe it? Do we REALLY believe that it is POSSIBLE through HIS LOVE? I know it has been a REAL challenge for me to accept it. How bout you? Have you noticed how tough being FAMILY can be? But, YET it can be SO very rewarding too. 🙂 I have to say I dreaded marriage. I have mentioned before how my husband and I got put together. It was an arranged marriage. NOT exactly MY idea of a perfect fit. AT least NOT then.

I had this ridiculous thought that I deserved to have someone SAVE me. Well, it was silly from one stand point. But, from another, in God’s eyes, and mind, it so makes sense. Jesus saves us, NOT because we deserve it, from a place of striving. BUT, simply because HE LOVES US. He took on HELL long ago, and takes on HELL every day for us. He was not just killed and resurrected one time. Overtime WE die to self, and surrender more to HIM, HE LIVES. More of HEAVEN begins to THRIVE in us, as we say YES to JESUS and NO, to the enemy.

https://bible.org/article/myth-happily-ever-after

This is a link I found with more insights about the myths, and lies.

While writing this, I was just OVERWHELMED with Heaven. The LORD Jesus LOVES us so much. HE is our prince charming. ONLY HIM. Not our natural spouse here on earth. Not saying that HE cannot use our spouse. He absolutely can and WILL. But, HE deserves HIS TITLE as PRINCE OF PEACE. He is our HEAVENLY KING. Our GREATEST GIFT! WE simply must remember THAT fact, because WE can never stray too far from our FIRST LOVE.

In my marriage, in the beginning, I looked to my husband as a rescuer. It was always, ” I do not know what I would DO or BE without him.” It was similar with Sarah, and our other children. But, the TRUTH is, ONLY JESUS deserves THAT honor. Forgive us Lord. Myself included, for anytime WE have ever unknowingly or knowingly placed something, or someone, on the throne of our hearts in place of you. YOU deserve the honor JESUS.

This world will tell you that you own your own truth. It will tell you that YOU deserve to be happy. It will tell you that if you wait too long, it will be too late. THIS world is full of lies. It is run by the master manipulator. The ONLY thing the enemy is good at, is LYING. So, it should be a red flag, when you see someone operating in that place. Jesus commands us, as disciples to TEST the spirits. The most important places to do so, are around you, your spouse, kids, animals, friends, and family. Why is this? Because, if you do NOT, you could fall into a trap set by the enemy.

TO have a HAPPY LIFE requires FULL surrender to God. The GOD who created us, LOVES us and LIVES to bless us. 🙂 It is done by FAITH in HIS finished work and tasks. Not by our own, through HIS. We must have complete confidence in GOD that HE can use even us when HE needs to. That for HIS GLORY to shine, He is not limited by anything, but our disagreement. He wants full TRUST for HIS plans to come to pass. FULL ACCESS, not just a feeling. BUT a FAITH MUSCLE being worked every single day. WE will be refined by HIS GREAT LOVE.

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/addisonroad/whatdoiknowofholy.html

“What Do I Know Of Holy”

By: Addison Road

Who is giving YOU your happily ever after? Is it JESUS? Because, A REAL HAPPILY EVER AFTER cannot and will NOT exist without CHRIST. Is your happily every after tied to others? Because, God will place us together for reasons, seasons and lifetimes. But, OUR LIFELINE is JESUS. NOTHING else, can or will ever fulfill us. A little butterfly that took her flight HOME, was used to teach me that.

It begins and ENDS with JESUS. He is the KEY to ALL of HEAVEN. Not from a place of religion, as the world see it. Simply from a place of Honor. There is a LOT happening in the world right now. Persecution appears to be increasing like fire. But GOD. HIS LOVE is like HOT LAVA, and it will conquer. You want your HAPPILY EVER AFTER? Then, come to JESUS. He holds it in HIS HANDS.

In His Grace and Favor,

E and Fam

When I was a child, I thought as a child. Then, I became a MAN and put away childish things. Reflecting a lot on this scripture. I believe what it is about is simple. It is referring to growing up. WE grow up, when we HAVE to. Some don’t see the need, so they stay stuck in immature mindsets. This has been a battle for me personally. I LOVE to do fun things. But, yet I cannot forget that God has me here for a purpose. It is to LOVE HIM, be LOVED by HIM, and to SHARE that LOVE with others.

“He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.” — Malachi 4:6

We do NOT move without OUR Father’s LOVE. We cannot, because HIS LOVE is what leads us. WE are a peculiar breed, those who DO ONLY for HIM. We exist ONLY to BRING HIM GLORY. I had a great earthly dad. HE was kind, and loving and compassionate. I miss him. I have no regrets, because I know every detail was as God called it to be. The Father’s LOVE lives is us. It consists of The HEAVENLY FATHER, HIS SON JESUS, and the HOLY SPIRIT. His LOVE FLOWS as LIFE WATER.

God sees those who are hurting. He sees the bitterness, anger, entitlement, fear and SO MUCH MORE. HIS LOVE truly covers a multitude of sins. WE must choose HIS ways, and REPENT of the OLD ways. The world seems to be looking over the fathers. But, WE must stay focused on RECEPTION of the FATHER’s LOVE. Are you receiving? When you spend time with YOUR family, is HE LOVING on you?

Because TODAY, of ALL days we must be willing to GIVE UP what is in the way. The things that are blocking US receiving the BLESSINGS of our KING, must GO! Life is NOT easy. At times, it feels like it sucks the LIFE out of us. BUT GOD. he restores, resurrects and rebuilds us. The OLD wine skins must burn. They must be destroyed before the NEW ones can come. Are you willing? Are WE willing?

What if JESUS said to you, “If you will GIVE up everything that means ANYTHING to you, then, YOU can have my Heaven. He does though beloved COGS. He absolutely DOES say this. “Follow ME and I will make YOU fishers of MEN.” JESUS is clear. GOD is a jealous GOD. He wants us ALL! he deserves every ounce of US. Doesn’t GOD deserve the BEST of us, instead of the REST? What is your response to HIM?

1 Corinthians 13

13 If I [can] speak in the tongues of men and [even] of angels, but have not love (that reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion such ^[a]as is inspired by God’s love for and in us), I am only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.

² And if I have prophetic powers (^[b]the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), and understand all the secret truths and mysteries and possess all knowledge, and if I have [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but have not love (God’s love in me) I am nothing (a useless nobody).

³ Even if I dole out all that I have [to the poor in providing] food, and if I surrender my body to be burned or^[c]in order that I may glory, but have not love (God’s love in me), I gain nothing.

⁴ Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastfulor vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.

⁵ It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong].

⁶ It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail.

⁷ Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening].

⁸ Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (^[d]the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth].

⁹ For our knowledge is fragmentary (incomplete and imperfect), and our prophecy (our teaching) is fragmentary (incomplete and imperfect).

¹⁰ But when the complete and perfect (total) comes, the incomplete and imperfect will vanish away (become antiquated, void, and superseded).

¹¹ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; now that I have become a man, I am done with childish ways and have put them aside.

¹² For now we are looking in a mirror that gives only a dim (blurred) reflection [of reality as ^[e]in a riddle or enigma], but then [when perfection comes] we shall see in reality and face to face! Now I know in part (imperfectly), but then I shall know and understand ^[f]fully and clearly, even in the same manner as I have been ^[g]fully and clearly known and understood [^[h]by God].

¹³ And so faith, hope, love abide [faith—conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope—joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love—true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but the greatest of these is love.

http://www.ibtimes.com/fathers-day-bible-verses-2015-15-scriptures-about-fatherhood-parenting-share-dads-1975141

There are MANY good Fathers. But, there is ONLY ONE GREAT ONE. I thank GOd for my husband, my dad that raised me, and ALL the amazing wonderful Fathers who contribute to my life. I thank GOD that because of the ONE Great Father, they and many other dads can become NEW again. You did not miss the snow. It is coming soon. You will see. HIS GLORY will shine, and the promise will be fulfilled.

GOD LOVES US THIS WAY….WE MUST LOVE HIM AND OTHERS THROUGH HIM…THE SAME

It is NOT about US, yet it ABSOLUTELY IS about HIS LOVE FOR US and OTHERS.

Grateful, Humbled, LOVED, and FAITHFILLED. JESUS will shine. Will YOU give HIM a HOME? Is there a manger available for the KING? The HONOR of THE FATHER MUST BE MADE KNOWN. WE LOVE YOU MIGHTY GOD and we SEEK to be a LIGHT through your LOVE to be the BEST parents we can. YOU do NOt fail, and YOU are the best FAMILY WE could ever HAVE.

HIS LOVE CONQUERS>>>A FATHER’s LOVE

In His Grace and GLORY,

E and Fam

Occasionally I get titles for entries. I keep them until I am released to write. This one came to me early this morning. So, I sought whether it was for NOW or Later. I immediately, knew that this one is an important topic. One that did not need to wait.  I woke reflecting on the scripture from psalm 37. I was reminded of just how MUCH God fights for His kids.

Psalm 37

[A Psalm] of David.

¹ Fret not yourself because of evildoers, neither be envious against those who work unrighteousness (that which is not upright or in right standing with God).

² For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.

³ Trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) in the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and feed surely on His faithfulness, and truly you shall be fed.

⁴ Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart.

⁵ Commit your way to the Lord [roll and repose each care of your load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also in Him and He will bring it to pass.

⁶ And He will make your uprightness and right standing with God go forth as the light, and your justice and right as [the shining sun of] the noonday.

⁷ Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him; fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass.

⁸ Cease from anger and forsake wrath; fret not yourself—it tends only to evildoing.

⁹ For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait and hope and look for the Lord [in the end] shall inherit the earth.

¹⁰ For yet a little while, and the evildoers will be no more; though you look with care where they used to be, they will not be found.

¹¹ But the meek [in the end] shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

¹² The wicked plot against the [uncompromisingly] righteous (the upright in right standing with God); they gnash at them with their teeth.

¹³ The Lord laughs at [the wicked], for He sees that their own day [of defeat] is coming.

¹⁴ The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows to cast down the poor and needy, to slay those who walk uprightly (blameless in conduct and in conversation).

¹⁵ The swords [of the wicked] shall enter their own hearts, and their bows shall be broken.

¹⁶ Better is the little that the [uncompromisingly] righteous have than the abundance [of possessions] of many who are wrong and wicked.

¹⁷ For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the Lord upholds the [consistently] righteous.

¹⁸ The Lord knows the days of the upright and blameless, and their heritage will abide forever.

¹⁹ They shall not be put to shame in the time of evil; and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

²⁰ But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of lambs [that is consumed in smoke] and as the glory of the pastures. They shall vanish; like smoke shall they consume away.

²¹ The wicked borrow and pay not again [for they may be unable], but the [uncompromisingly] righteous deal kindly and give [for they are able].

²² For such as are blessed of God shall [in the end] inherit the earth, but they that are cursed of Him shall be cut off.

²³ The steps of a [good] man are directed and established by the Lord when He delights in his way [and He busies Himself with his every step].

²⁴ Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down, for the Lord grasps his hand in support and upholds him.

²⁵ I have been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the [uncompromisingly] righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread.

²⁶ All day long they are merciful and deal graciously; they lend, and their offspring are blessed.

²⁷ Depart from evil and do good; and you will dwell forever [securely].

²⁸ For the Lord delights in justice and forsakes not His saints; they are preserved forever, but the offspring of the wicked [in time] shall be cut off.

²⁹ [Then] the [consistently] righteous shall inherit the land and dwell upon it forever.

³⁰ The mouth of the [uncompromisingly] righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks with justice.

³¹ The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

³² The wicked lie in wait for the [uncompromisingly] righteous and seek to put them to death.

³³ The Lord will not leave them in their hands, or [suffer them to] condemn them when they are judged.

³⁴ Wait for and expect the Lord and keep and heed His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land; [in the end] when the wicked are cut off, you shall see it.

³⁵ I have seen a wicked man in great power and spreading himself like a green tree in its native soil,

³⁶ Yet he passed away, and behold, he was not; yes, I sought and inquired for him, but he could not be found.

³⁷ Mark the blameless man and behold the upright, for there is a happy end for the man of peace.

³⁸ As for transgressors, they shall be destroyed together; in the end the wicked shall be cut off.

³⁹ But the salvation of the [consistently] righteous is of the Lord; He is their Refuge and secure Stronghold in the time of trouble.

⁴⁰ And the Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they trust and take refuge in Him.

Years ago, I was in prayer. In this time, that is precious to HIM, I received some revelation. I realized, by HIS Grace, that we must consistently CHOOSE every day, to serve God. I mean, for some of us, that is a no brainer. But, let’s be really real and raw for a moment. Is that easy to do? Well, sometimes it seems easy. Other times, it seems like walking on FIRE. Which, we know would not be even possible, without JESUS.

I heard the LORD say, “The enemy will hunt you, but there will be a point, where they shall become the hunted. Your job is to LOVE anyway. The evil will be around you, but YOU are to choose ME, and MY ways. I must be your best friend, your confidant, your very breath. I must be in FULL authority in your life. Do you understand my child?” I remember looking up to God, with a gulp in my throat. I recall saying, “Yes sir, I understand.”

Yet, even now I am still gaining wisdom, knowledge and understanding, even on that. I received it to a point. I mean, don’t we all? We don’t consider whom the enemy could use to try and turn us toward evil. But, let’s take a moment and do just that. What weapons does the enemy use? He uses the weapon of fear, but so does God. It’s just the fear that GOD speaks of is pure, and from a place of reverence and respect and awe. What we have observed, is he uses vessels who are struggling, but again, so does GOD. You see the parallels here?

In the word of God it let’s us know that the only power the enemy has was given to him by God. Meaning, the power started with GOD. Yet, we must be VERY careful, to keep it there. To not try and manipulate or change something, that God put into effect is critical in this season. Let me explain a bit more. We have to be acutely aware of our environment. When we become MORE aware, the battle appears more intense.

But, does that mean it is? Not necessarily so. Jesus is a HUNTER and He hunts evil. You will notice in scripture, that He did not seek it out. But, He was always willing to help others, ready to be FREE from it. In our life, I don’t believe we, on purpose sought out evil things, or those influenced by them. Yet, it seemed to find us. It often looked like, we lived in a prison of evil, to the onlooker. But, GOD.

Things are rarely as they seem on this earth. Here is how you absolutely know that GOD alone and not man is leading you; God brings peace. The Heavenly Father, The Holy Spirit, and JESUS united, brings peace. GOD has no chaos in HIM. Yet, it does not mean He cannot be in the center of it. Because, He often IS in the center of the storms.

As much as WE tire of being hunted, so did Jesus. Plus, HE had then, and NOW,  NO impurities in HIM, and because of this was hunted even more. I thought of this today. I woke recognizing even MORE His mercy. Jesus, is and was then, not only the Greatest Time Traveler, but also the Greatest spy. Not in a negative way, but in a “get in, get out” kind of way.

I don’t wake up every day consciously thinking, “Let’s slaughter some evil today.” But, I do believe by HIS Grace and mercy and LOVE, I do wake up more joyful daily. I wake up excited to be used by HIM, for HIS GLORY and purpose. I get pumped up about the PLANS of GOD. I do, more often than not, look at Jesus and say, “Let’s do this!.”

I would say the number one thing that we have observed hindering the body of Christ, is witchcraft. People are often scared of the word itself. When, in actuality, that word is older than dirt. I admit, in the beginning, learning about enemy tactics was a bit daunting. I watch our kids challenged with it as well. I even notice, that our animals can at times, look noticeably affected. But, HERE is where WE keep focus. Because GOD has given us ALL authority to trample on snakes and scorpions.

It is HIS authority that has been gifted to, and entrusted to US. That, NOTHING shall by any means harm us. So, then why do we have to deal with trials? Because, they purify our hearts. God uses them to cleanse us and bring us to deeper levels of intimacy with HIM. He uses them to BREAK off confusion from us, and to often teach us how to remain peaceful in the midst of it all. Thank GOD for HIS LOVE!

The revelation that came just today was this; we can be the hunted or the hunter. One is from a place of fear and defeat. I repented for any vestiges of that. Two is from a place of VICTORY. We are going to go a bit deeper here, so hang tight. A hunter can hunt to steal, kill and destroy right? It is often for sport, according to the world. The hunted, are constantly looking around in fear to see if their enemy has found them.

The bible speaks on these topics. Here is what it says…

http://www.openbible.info/topics/hunting

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We often FEAR what we do NOT understand. I cannot recall who said that, but it is true and scriptural. In the word it speaks of “MY people perish, for lack of knowledge and vision.” That refers to the fact that WE often look at the logic, instead of seeking Jesus about it. Forgive us Lord.

I don’t know about you, but I want to be so DEEPLY intertwined with Jesus, that when people run away, or can’t handle it about me, I am not even moved. That is my LIFESONG, to be fastened to JESUS. I want to take a 747 to Heaven every day, so that I can learn more about my HOME. I LOVE getting to interact with others, and hear their stories, as well as share ours. I have always said to God, “If I ever feel like I can fix it without you,  please remove me from being a minister.” Because, I am certain that I cannot and neither can you, or Joe Smoothe and Sally Sue Shmofen. NO ONE can fix anything, in a way that honors God without HIM.

Jesus is our cornerstone. He is the MASTER in everything. He is a hunter, a worshipper, a lover, a fighter, you name it. There is absolutely NOTHING that he cannot do. Will we let HIM though? I mean that is the biggest question. I often hear people speak of others. They say, so and can’t make up his or her mind or involved in such and such.  I admit, I have even said these things. I tend to call out evil, because I want it no where near me.

But, WE are coming into a season, where we should receive GOD’s LOVE so much, that even when it is called out, WE LOVE anyway. We forgive ourselves, others, God and really any and all circumstances that give the illusion of hindering HIS plans. We must, first and foremost let JESUS be our hunter. We must recognize that because He is, we will be hunted. I am not saying we have to be defeated in it. In fact, quite the opposite. The evil is being hunted even more than WE are. Believe me when I say, revival is hitting the land, because heaven is invading. But, so many are so focused on how it “LOOKS” that they cannot see what is actually happening.

Sometimes God sends us out to change the atmosphere. Because, JESUS lives in us, as well as the Holy Spirit and the Heavenly Father, WE become a weapon, in and of itself. We become signs and wonders, by HIS LOVE. You never know who is watching and listening. HIS LOVE, will be the FRUIT that is made known. It will either be LOVE through JESUS, or hate through the enemy. Jesus hates evil, but yet has compassion for those trapped in it. He loves anyway. So, WE must do the very same thing. WE must, through HIS LOVE, speak LIFE into the people trapped in the prisons of darkness. It may be what He uses to set them FREE.

Lord, give us intangible eyes. Help us to NOT be afraid to see where we come from, or where we have been. Give us your LOVE in abundance so that every cell is filled up with it. WE LOVE you JESUS. We thank you for your unfailing and unending Grace, Mercy, and LOVE. You fight for us to death and beyond, and WE are grateful beyond words. We come with repentant hearts, seeking you to bring Heaven, so that WE can share it with others. You are GLORY. We come and drink of you and eat of you today. Thank you for NEVER giving up on us. ~ Your babies. In Jesus Holy name, Amen

It is TIME to seek the ways of the LORD. Seek HIM, while HE can be found. Let Jesus be your spy, and your VERY best friend. Love your spouse, children, animals, friends, foes, and DO SO through JESUS. He does ALL things well. I mean ALL things. WE will falter, and WE will fall sometimes. But, JESUS never has and NEVER EVER WILL. We can REST in that fact. IT is finished. The game is over and the WAR is won for those 100% on the side of JESUS.

Where does your loyalty reside?

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam

Years ago in 2009, the year Sarah was diagnosed, my husband and I went out to a movie. I was so intrigued by it. The movie, “The time traveler’s wife.”  I often get flack, for my LOVE of films. But, here is the reason I do. It reminds me of Home. I see glimmers, and redemption, and remnants of Heaven. Is it through my eyes? Well, no it actually is not. It is THROUGH the eyes of Jesus. Did I know that then? Well, not like now, but somewhere I knew. I came into this world. awoken to Heaven. But, events that took place here, caused me to “travel in time” into darkness.

As a kid, I was ALL about feelings. I mean, they were ALL over the place. They are something that every day, must be surrendered to God. He gifted us the ability to have emotions. Yet, He wants us to not allow those emotions to HAVE us. They cannot and SHOULD not control us, manipulate us, or become OUR God. Only ONE deserves that title and HIS name is JESUS! He is united with the Heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit. The 3 in one, full of GLORY and directors, writers and producers of our story.

As a child, I had a babysitter, that most would probably see like a nanny. She was NOT live in. But, she was there a lot. Her name, Robbie Shadoen. I adored her. I mean, when I think about her now, I still smile. I was in preschool, and my parents had her keeping me for a few hours, until they came home. I remember vividly that she watched “stories” and that she loved asparagus soup. I also believe she loved the Lord. Such a precious soul. She was a gift to me. She let me be a kid, without much restriction. She was a portion of Jesus in my life.

For, WE must remember that HIS LOVE surpasses ALL space and time. His LOVE heals, conquers, delivers, FREES us, and LEADS us out the darkness and into the light. Out of the FRYING pan and into the FIRE of HIS LOVE, should be our hope. Our dreams should match His dreams. At least, in time, we should be gradually surrendering MORE and MORE until WE are fully emptied of any complexities of the past.

Back to the movie I mentioned. “The TIME Traveler’s Wife.” I have seen this movie LOTS of times. Every time I see it again, God reveals something new and amazing. The last time I watched, I saw the child, who grows from a seedling child to an adult. He was singing a song. It was something joyful. He did NOT care how he sounded. Then, ALL the sudden, the car crashed. But GOD. In relation to our LIFE, I was singing a song when Sarah went HOME to be with Jesus. That song was one of PERFECT FREEDOM. But, what I wanted was PERFECT JOY.

This is a bit tough to talk about. But, I will because I have been told I MUST. I asked every day for an angrl, and for JOY. I left that typo in, because, it means something. I asked for an angel. Yet, I believe I was asking for a female to assist me. You see, I was so LOST. I had given up my friends when I moved. In fact, so had she and so had my husband. We gave up a lot that we loved. But, we knew it was required, and honored our King.  I had one or two friends, but NOTHING like what I had before. One of them, we would later find, was working against us. Again, but God. I learned so much about compassion, mercy and forgiveness from Jesus in Sarah. I asked daily for this angel, and she resided in my home.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/time_travel

Time Travel

After the car crash, everything changes. I was thinking about another movie as well. This one is called, “P.S. I Love You.” It is about a woman whose husband dies. I remember i was watching it one day. It was shortly before Sarah entered into the Pearly gates. She could not watch the film. She actually got up and walked out. because, she knew, even then, what was soon to come.

These movies have a common ground. That common ground is LOVE. the common core component is just that. The kid, in the first film, lost his mom. The woman, in the second one, lost her spouse. Our LOSS is HIS gain. Yet, in the films, most of the time, the characters do NOT appreciate what they had. They spend so much time, either trying to move on, or dwell on what was. very rarely do you see healing taking place. Why is this? Because the characters are often looking to MAN to save them, they do NOT really GET free. Only JESUS can save us. Without HIM, we have NO REAL LOVE.

People will lie, scheme, plot, manipulate, and attempt to control, when under influence of evil. but, GOD has NO EVIL in HIM. I was in the ocean recently. I swam, laughed, giggled with glee, and thanked God for HIS clarity and healing. As did our kids, and my husband and MANY others that were enjoying the LOVE of heaven. We ALL basked in the glow of HIS Glory. Some received it, others ran from it. But, what i know is, those who did the evil attempts, did NOT succeed. His Love, as always conquered.

When you have been brow beaten, and picked on, and told you are nothing, it can be darn near impossible to receive good things. But God. here is a word from my dear sister Kathi Pelton. She truly LOVES the LORD and graciously receives and shares it with ALL who meet her. 🙂

http://oceansinthedesert.com/

Though you may have felt framed by the enemy for a life of confinement and closed prison doors, the Lord is about to change that!

No one seems to get it, but Jesus. I know that some do try. But, without HOLY UNITY, we are dead walking. The enemies team knows to stay united. You foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you??? Your words can birth LIFE or death. They can bring JOY or sorrow. Do you want a heart that has sharp edges and cuts people to shreds? All because YOU cannot and will NOT surrender to God and receive LOVE?

Father forgive us for being used to cut people to shreds. Forgive us for speaking death, for any time we have. Help us to forgive, especially when it is undeserved. We want to be a hatchet against evil, not to cause additional wounds, or butcher your plans. I believe that you desire THIS too. I ask you to soften the hearts of those who once loved you, as the latter rain falls.

I. as a child, lived a lot of my life with sharp edges on my heart. I’m sure at times, it was like a hatchet. To this day few understand, because to them, it looks like everything was given to me, on a silver platter. Although, that is NOT at ALL how it was or is. What I do have is HIS LOVE. Jesus is my cornerstone. If He were not, I would be as dead as a lukewarm believer.

Because of this place that I lived, which was basically HELL, I was not naturally very kind. I am NOT saying I blatantly served the devil. I mean, I just did NOT know how to adjust to my environment. No one heard me. I still struggle with this, to some degree. But, finally there is healing happening on my side. I can’t say how quickly others will heal. Some don’t feel the need or desire to forgive. I pray someday they awaken to Heaven.

I own what I was NOT. I don’t avoid discussing it. But, I also own what I am. I am a NEW creation. When people meet me now, they see the NEW me. They may not like it, and that is okay. But, God justifies me, and I don’t have to explain myself to others. If they don’t know him, and refuse to receive HIS LOVE through me, then God separates, and ejects HIS KID. Whether or not a return is made, is up to HIM.

I urge you to repent for times you have spoken, thought or acted from a hatchet heart. Ask Jesus to smooth out ALL rough edges. Because time is changing my friends, and HIS plans will move forth with or without our assistance. He desires to work with us, and to LOVE the HELL out of those made captive. Will you continue rejecting HIS LOVE? Or, is today the day you lay the hatchet down?

Create in US a clean HEART LORD…and RENEW a right spirit within us. WE LOVE YOU.

In His Grace and GLORY,

E and FAM

Today is a NEW day of FREEDOM. Yesterday, someone who loves me, said something to me. In fact, Jesus used this person to speak it. The person said, “You must NOT believe even, the MOST well dressed lie. Something broke in me, when this was said. I cannot even explain it. My husband and I were praying and talking. He said, “Honey, remember that movie we watched?” I wondered which one, and asked accordingly. He could not recall the title, but started referring to actors, and movies they may have played in. So, I went on a hunt to figure out which movie it was. Finally, it was revealed that the movie was called, “The UGLY Truth.”

In this movie, a woman who is a studio producer, encounters a man who is a radio show host, making a transition to TV. Now, this man is NOT a bad man per se. But, He is NOT exactly her kind of man either. They are like fire and ice. Eventually, one thing leads to another, and they fall in “love.” Now, it is VERY much a typical world film. Looking past that, at the core it is 2 hurt people coming together to hurt less. In relation to my LIFE, I had to face the UGLY truth about some things. TRUTH does not always look or sound friendly. But, TRUTH, even spoken brutally, has some purpose.

I personally, receive A LOT better when someone speaks TRUTH in kindness, with compassion and understanding. Maybe that is just me, but I doubt it. 😉 The worst TRUTH I have ever had to face, is LIFE will NEVER be picture perfect. No matter how GREAT the picture may appear, there are always hidden flaws. Often the diamonds with those hidden flaws sparkle the most, and are most beautiful. I have had a picture in my head, that I don’t even think I came up with. I laid down the desire to have that. But, until yesterday the picture still kind of stayed in the background. NOT anymore though, and to GOD be the GLORY.

I lived in a house where we were not supposed to “air our dirty laundry.” Yet, if the laundry never reached the air, no matter how much it was washed, it might NOT get clean. Our pictures looked great. But, behind closed doors, there were SO many secrets. Some of them came out, and usually I was to blame. So, I became hurt and angry and at times vengeful. I was not the ONLY one, but for some reason, I was the most OBVIOUS one. The UGLY truth is, I was a brat a lot of the time. Because, I just did not know how to do things differently.

Some thought I enjoyed it. I suppose it could look that way. But, what I really wanted was a LOVING and HAPPY FAMILY. I did NOT want to hide behind the picture. In fact, for parents who talked about Jesus, I wanted THAT. I craved to SEE that, and stop seeing the ugliness. GOD did not and does not see me as a brat. Yet, He does not and will not permit me to justify my behavior either. I realized that I was the teen who took boyfriends out to dark places, just to “get away” with something. I had no clue how BAD of an idea that was. It was NOT discussed, and when I tried, it was shut down.

I’m going on 39 years old. There is A LOT I have done wrong in my life. But, to GOD all that matters is what is done right. He erases ALL the errors, and keeps no record of ANY wrong. So, why do we? The UGLY truth IS the BEST DRESSED LIE. Meaning, the things that come from guilt, shame, hurt, anger, and all negative emotions, are what the enemy counts on to snare us.

Today begins a BRAND NEW SEASON of TRUTH. Not the UGLY TRUTH anymore. Ready for the TRUTH of Heaven? Someone recently spoke of Cinderella. I had know idea that this story originally had a Godly theme. But, it does make sense to me, on so many levels. I heard the same person say she felt more like the ugly step sister. I believe JESUS wants us to understand, WE don’t have to be just Cinderella or the UGLY step sister. We could have aspects of both. BUT, when ALL of these are surrendered b4 God, then our prince takes His place.

The last 3 days have been VERY interesting. Life is a lot like the ocean. It is beautiful, deep at times, sparkling, has danger, and can be healing. Time at the BEACH is always a gift. I could not help but think of how the weekend began. It began with utter chaos, and everyone NOT wanting to go. So, of course, WE knew that WE would go. Then, there were appointments, and misunderstandings. There were a few things that could have been quite complicated. But God. The first place we stayed was okay. Out of the many places we had been, it was NOT the worst. We enjoyed a wonderful conference. Then, today, while in the water, something happened to us.

I realized that when I began FACING the UGLY TRUTH, my husband did too. Plus, our kids, and ultimately others we would come in contact with. You SEE, the UGLIEST TRUTH when surrendered before God will bring healing, when WE see HIS way. David was in the ocean, and we began to check the time, knowing there was a plan to head back. But, it is funny how God moves in the process. He ALWAYS SEES the PURE TRUTH. He gives us GRACE while HE ERASES the UGLY. He replaces HELL with HEAVEN, but ONLY when WE receive it.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/scripture_about_ugly_truth

UGLY TRUTHS…

I don’t always act like a GREAT wife, mom, friend, daughter, and more.

I am NOT perfect.

I am NOT always happy.

PURE TRUTH…

I AM A GREAT MOM, because JESUS is GREAT in me.

HE is perfect, even when I falter. He loves my surrender before HIM.

I am ALWAYS CONTENT and FULL OF JOY, BECAUSE HE LOVES ME. No matter how it appears.

I was thinking today about a shattered mirror. So many sharp pieces that can cut us. But, surrendered before God, WE see HIS image, as He places each piece in it’s proper place. Such a GIFT to be LOVED by HIM. Others will let us down sometimes. THAT is inevitable. We cannot change another person. But, WE can LOVE them anyway. THIS is how they will SEE the pure TRUTH and turn from the UGLY.

For weeks, I have been seeking wisdom from the Lord on this post. I knew when it was given, that it would probably be one of the MOST gutwrenching entries, I have ever been used to write. When I was a child, all I remember is my parents trying to appease me. My brothers saw me get lots of attention, and a lot of stuff. To them, it looked like I had a perfect life. To them, and to many others, there was nothing to complain about.

But, the TRUTH is, my life was not what I saw as perfect. Don’t get me wrong, because I had a roof over my head, parents who loved me, and most basic needs provided for. But, I did NOT really know LOVE. It is still a daily struggle, to receive LOVE, even though it should be something that just comes natural. It just NEVER has to me, except with children. I can LOVE any child on the planet. In fact, I can connect with children, and animals, better than most adults. I guess, because they can SEE God in me. They LOVE HIM, and it seems most others either want to use HIM, or reject HIM on the spot. SO few just receive. I did not know how. Everywhere I looked seemed to be the wrong direction. I lived a very isolated life. Even when I was with others, I was never really present.

I remember my mother would hug me, and I would pull away. It wasn’t that she did NOT care. IT was that when she hugged me, I did not just feel LOVE. I felt so much more than that. I pulled away, because I could not handle the pain. Sometimes being around others, can be so intense for me, that I have to take days away, just to recuperate. No one understood then, and few do now. It is not an easy existence, because most days, I feel I just do NOT belong here. I wonder why God still has me here? Only He knows for sure.

But, perhaps, it is to help me appreciate the gift of the intangible. Maybe God will connect me with others whose testimony is like a treasure hunt. Those who suffered in silence, for whatever reason, and need  voice or platform, are crying out. The LOST need to be found. Time is running out, and it is time to LOVE anyway. It is time to forgive often, and choose HIS way, everyday. Sometimes people will agree, and others they will agree to disagree. But, nonetheless, it is NOT time to speak ill of others. On the contrary, it is indeed time to speak LIFE. It is time to speak HEAVEN to come.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/intangible

According to definition, to be intangible means, unable to touch.

It seems my whole life has been ONE of a search for the tangible. In fact, don’t most of us do this? Don’t we admire those who tangibly have a strong testimony? Isn’t it the obvious that usually gets acknowledged? I mean, when something is the best or lasts the longest, that can be intangible and tangible. I suppose it depends on perception.  As a child I wanted friends. I saw them as tangible representations of love. Everywhere I looked around me seemed to be full of loss. I never fit. Very round whole, into very square peg. It just did not work.

It was like I was LOST and I could NOT be found. Yet, somehow in the midst of ALL the darkness around me, that often looked like light, He found me. As a child I remember vividly everyone telling me, “It is NOT about YOU.” I mean, this was drilled into my head. It was like a broken record that would NEVER ever stop playing. Occasionally, I would hear, “The world does NOT revolve around YOU.” They were right, but what they did not mention, or perhaps did not know was significant. It is about HOW MUCH God LOVES ME! It IS about HOW MUCH GOD LOVES ALL OF US!!!

As a child I was very affected by justification. I would justify everything. I would do it for fear that NO ONE would see the tangible in me. Because I could NOT see it.  A lot of times I justified my own sins, and indiscretions. I, of course, had to eventually repent before God, and ask forgiveness. People who don’t really know me, or us, often think I’m just a religious crazy person. That used to bother me. But, it does not as much as before. Because in scripture it says, that NOT everyone will understand.  It specifies that we should not expect them to get it, until they GET HIS LOVE.

So many people have a package waiting outside their hearts door. It is filled with LOVE, and the wonders of Heaven. But, because it is NOT TANGIBLE, to us it often goes unopened. The tangible things, like hugs and kisses, and kind words, and music, people, and movies, are so much easier to connect to. Or are they? We are designed to LOVE God. Yet, we get distracted by the world. WE are designed to be LOVED by GOD, yet we want to dictate how it looks or feels.

We want to HOLD the intangible….don’t we, don’t YOU???

When I was a teenager, I was attracted to Christian music. I mean, I loved ALL kinds of music. But, as a kid, there was something about people singing about God. It was tangible to me, though intangible to many. Anyway, there was a Christian folk singer I liked. Her name, Susan Ashton, and I remember buying a tape years ago. You know, back when those were a dime a dozen. 😉 There was a song she sang about this topic.

SUSAN ASHTON

Hold The Intangible Lyrics

Source: <a href=”http://www.elyrics.net/read/s/susan-ashton-lyrics/hold-the-intangible-lyrics.html” rel=”nofollow”>click here</a>

Only RECENTLY did I realize that I was holding the desire to have something tangible, as an idol of my heart. When you have had it, even for a little while, it is easy to miss when it is gone. I laid down the desire for things I can touch, and I do every single day lay down that desire. Do, I miss what was? Oh, so much sometimes it is tough to breathe. But, am I thankful for the GIFT to be able to LOVE tangibly? YES. I am thankful for my husband, our children, animals, friends, family members, and so much more.

Ecclesiastes 2 Amplified Bible (AMP)

2 I said in my mind, Come now, I will prove you with mirth and test you with pleasure; so have a good time [enjoy pleasure]. But this also was vanity (emptiness, falsity, and futility)!

² I said of laughter, It is mad, and of pleasure, What does it accomplish?

³ I searched in my mind how to cheer my body with wine—yet at the same time having my mind hold its course and guide me with [human] wisdom—and how to lay hold of folly, till I might see what was good for the sons of men to do under heaven all the days of their lives.

⁴ I made great works; I built myself houses, I planted vineyards.

⁵ I made for myself gardens and orchards and I planted in them all kinds of fruit trees.

⁶ I made for myself pools of water from which to water the forest and make the trees bud.

⁷ I bought menservants and maidservants and had servants born in my house. Also I had great possessions of herds and flocks, more than any who had been before me in Jerusalem.

⁸ I also gathered for myself silver and gold and the treasure of kings and of the provinces. I got for myself men singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of men—^[a]concubines very many.

⁹ So I became great and increased more than all who were before me in Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me and stood by me.

¹⁰ And whatever my eyes desired I kept not from them; I withheld not my heart from any pleasure, for my heart rejoiced in all my labor, and this was my portion and reward for all my toil.

¹¹ Then I looked on all that my hands had done and the labor I had spent in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after the wind and a feeding on it, and there was no profit under the sun.

¹² So I turned to consider [human] wisdom and madness and folly; for what can the man do who succeeds the king? Nothing but what has been done already.

¹³ Then I saw that even [human] wisdom [that brings sorrow] is better than [the pleasures of] folly as far as light is better than darkness.

¹⁴ The wise man’s eyes are in his head, but the fool walks in darkness; and yet I perceived that [in the end] one event happens to them both.

¹⁵ Then said I in my heart, As it happens to the fool, so it will happen even to me. And of what use is it then for me to be more wise? Then I said in my heart, This also is vanity (emptiness, vainglory, and futility)!

¹⁶ For of the wise man, the same as of the fool, there is no permanent remembrance, since in the days to come all will be long forgotten. And how does the wise man die? Even as the fool!

¹⁷ So I hated life, because what is done under the sun was grievous to me; for all is vanity and a striving after the wind and a feeding on it.

¹⁸ And I hated all my labor in which I had toiled under the sun, seeing that I must leave it to the man who will succeed me.

¹⁹ And who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have dominion over all my labor in which I have toiled and in which I have shown myself wise under the sun. This is also vanity (emptiness, falsity, and futility)!

²⁰ So I turned around and gave my heart up to despair over all the labor of my efforts under the sun.

²¹ For here is a man whose labor is with wisdom and knowledge and skill; yet to a man who has not toiled for it he must leave it all as his portion. This also is vanity (emptiness, falsity, and futility) and a great evil!

²² For what has a man left from all his labor and from the striving and vexation of his heart in which he has toiled under the sun?

²³ For all his days are but pain and sorrow, and his work is a vexation and grief; his mind takes no rest even at night. This is also vanity (emptiness, falsity, and futility)!

²⁴ There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink and make himself enjoy good in his labor. Even this, I have seen, is from the hand of God.

²⁵ For who can eat or who can have enjoyment any more than I can—^[b]apart from Him?

²⁶ For to the person who pleases Him God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy; but to the sinner He gives the work of gathering and heaping up, that he may give to one who pleases God. This also is vanity and a striving after the wind and a feeding on it.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/intangible

After a LONG hard look at ME, I have realized that I am not a huge fan of the tangible. The place that God has met me is intangible to most. But, yet I am learning that even when I want to hold the intangible, that it is still NOT about me, and it IS about how He LOVES. I pray every day, that He will LOVE through me not only in a intangible way, but someday a tangible one too.

Was thinking of the Velveteen Rabbit. I know there is an entry somewhere about it, on here. But, what I will say, is that LOVE made the rabbit become REAL. The LOVE of Jesus, and the Heavenly Father, as well as the HOLY Spirit, is intangible, at first. But, the more we receive it, the more TANGIBLE it becomes.

I invite you today to say YES to the intangible. Say Yes to the one who made you and LOVES you more than words can express. His Glory will shine, with or without us, but we were created to participate in Heaven’s arrival. Somewhere inside, the seed that He planted is still present. As LONG as your heart beats you still have choice. Choose HIS LOVE today.

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam