As we approach what most in this world call “Easter,” have been pondering what it will take for people to wake up in this world. People live their lives, for the most part, thinking only of themselves, because that has been the enemies deception. Or, they live thinking only of others and never of self. Balance seems to be missing. Have people forgotten the cross daily, and now remember it only on a “holiday? ” 

How many people have to perish before God gets His way? The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy. But, should we let him? Absolutely NOT! God gives very clear instructions on how to handle the enemy. We must remind him that he is under our feet, according to the word of God. That because of God’s LOVE and sacrifice at the cross where Jesus died, and later the resurrection, the devil has NO authority. 

Yesterday while chatting with and praying with my spouse, he shared a story about some kids in the neighborhood. These kids are a bit on the different side. Not, that this is bad, but it definitely is noticeable. He said the oldest one, may have had a child, from what he gathered. He also said that there are many people living in one house, and that almost all of them are very lost. 

One day we were walking around the neighborhood and we saw one of the older girls and a guy walking. I smiled, and she smiled and waved shyly. It doesn’t seem like much, but it is. Because we had been praying for this girl, that she would be open to God. They had gone to church, but something tragic happened to their dad, and the family is blaming God it seems. This is not uncommon. The mother does not go to church, but God continues to send loving people into their lives to minister to them, and pray for them.

Also something that came up yesterday was what Sarah Elizabeth wants to be when she grows up. She thinks a veterinarian  I said, “Oh, so you don’t want to be a  pastor anymore?” She said, “Well I really love animals.” So then I explained to her, that being a pastor does not just mean you have a congregation. It is about being loving and nurturing, and letting GOD move in you to do so. She could do this as a veterinarian, just as well as she could a big church. 

You might think these stories have nothing in common, but what they do have in common, is the LOVE. It is that LOVE that people do not always receive, and it often gets distorted, because we are trained NOT to receive it. I know so many people who have kids, and lives and they pride their selves on a nice home, well behaved kid in public, and money in the bank. But, these are only surface things. All of these things fade away. 

Money is just PAPER. That is ALL it will ever be. It is printed paper at that. It is seeds used to plant for evil or for good. Nice homes, can get destroyed, as we have seen many this year, with all the harsh weather, and events. Kids, grow up, and without core values, rooted in LOVE that comes from GOD, often find the wrong path. Not to say God can’t fix all of these things when they go astray. He can! However, we should be doing our part to work with HIM instead of against HIM. 

Last night I had awful dreams. Sometimes I have nice dreams, but these were just all about my past, and who I was. But, every day, thankfully I don’t have to be THAT person anymore. God gives me and you a clean slate. Do we accept it or reject it? Do we wake up every morning and choose joy, hope, love, faith, and  truth? or do we just get up, pick something to wear, not caring what, get our kids ready, an in some cases, out the door, and do something mundane, and scheduled? Am not in any way mocking or picking on the ordinary lives or even working. It all has purpose, but we should enjoy it, not just get through it, and we should plant seeds of encouragement and kindness, and other positive seeds, that share God’s Love. He wants to use us for these, and desires us to let Him. 

We have been to functions with people from church where there was wine and drunkenness. Then, there were arguments and bickering.  We know of many churches that have potlucks with alcohol, and before the night many are not able to drive. Are we surprised?  Now it is just looked at as the norm for the days we live in, but it shouldn’t be. There are deep root of pain that create that craving for something like alcohol. Not to mention, as a church, we should be setting a good example. We should be addressing the issues, not ignoring them. 

Too much of anything is bad. If a person went out and got drunk  or high the night before, and came in to work the next day, are they going to do a good job at work? Odds are not as good as they would have without that extra baggage. So, what will it take? For people not to try and find escape in these things?

Why not find it in GOD? The word GOOD reminds us that anything good that happens is of GOD.After all GOD is in the word good. GO GOD ! Some may get get tired of us talking about God’s love and HIS plans. But, we are going to keep on doing it. We know it may come across as judgmental at times, but that is not our hearts. We have a heart for HIS Truth and ways alone. 

Our prayer is that God reveal to people that when anything is put above HIM it falls, and often gets destroyed. It is one of the 10 commandments, to not put any other God’s before Him. Anything can become more important than God in our lives. We cannot just go to church and call it good. In fact, this is a time, where many are not finding what is needed in church, so they are walking away. 

Another thing that came up last night was the internet. It can be a great tool, for sure, but it is also a very controlled tool. God is about order not about control. He is about loving not dictating from a place of meanness and condemnation. He is here to lift us up, not put us down. I remember once, that someone said, “I don’t know how you can say God is always nice to you, he sure isn’t to me.” I said, “Well it sounds like we may serve a different God.”

For years we have been warned of events coming, and often people panic instead of pray. But, here is a suggestion, try praying first and praising GOD. The pain and FEAR will then die out. I have to remember this too, because LIFE does get hard at times. Things happen that are sad, and unbelievable. But, everything has purpose, the GOOD, BAD, and the UGLY. 

So, are we going to be doubting Thomas where Jesus has to show us the wounds? What will it take to believe HIM? What will it take to fully surrender to HIS ways? How much are we willing to LOSE or LET GO of? Because one way or another, GOD will have HIS way, with or without us, but He created us to work as a team, united in HIM and HIS LOVE, GRACE and MERCY. 

Would like to share another song that has been on my heart for a few days…it is by an artist named Jeremy Riddle.

“Sweetly Broken”To the cross I look, to the cross I cling

Of its suffering I do drink
Of its work I do sing

For on it my Savior both bruised and crushed
Showed that God is love
And God is just

Chorus:
At the cross You beckon me
You draw me gently to my knees, and I am
Lost for words, so lost in love,
I am sweetly broken, wholly surrendered

What a priceless gift, undeserved life
Have I been given
Through Christ crucified

You have called me out of death
You have called me into life
And I was under Your wrath
Now through the cross I am reconciled

Chorus:

In awe of the cross I must confess
How wondrous Your redeeming love and
How great is Your faithfulness
To the cross I look, to the cross I clinOf its suffering I do drinkOf its work I do sinFor on it my Savior both bruised and crushed

Showed that God is love
And God is just

More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/j/jeremy_riddle/

In His Grace,

E

Today when I woke up, I was feeling really discouraged. I was aching, both physically and in my heart. All I could think about was the cross. Specifically, the crucifixion was on my mind. Thinking about all the pain and agony, and anguish that Christ endured all morning long. It really should change our perspective. But does it? That image alone should CUT us to the core. It should, if nothing else, bring tears to our EYES.

People said that the things JESUS did were impossible, but they were NOT impossible once the imps (evil ones) were removed. He never gave way to evil, I mean NEVER. Let’s think about that for a moment. I try and remember to ask GOD daily to fill me up, and cause me not to give way to evil, but I still fall, over and over in my eyes. Yet, in HIS eyes I am just a child learning and growing. You are too, which is important to remember. 😉

It is CHRIST who gives us strength, for HE does ALL things well! ~

I personally, still have battles with doubts, and questions of who I am, and who, most importantly, HE wants me to be. Do I make a difference, do people hear GOD through me? At my core, I know I am LOVED, and blessed and treasured, but something always opposes that mindset. That something is what makes things seem IMPOSSIBLE. Well, temporarily. 🙂

I was led to do some research on what IMP means and found it fascinating. here is a link that caught my attention.

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imp

The thing that intrigues me is the synonyms that it lists.

The number one synonym is the name of the enemy of God. That cannot be a coincidence.

Was reading a book today claiming it was about God, and was shocked how casually people use God. It should not be us using HIM, but He using us. We are the warriors He uses, we should not be trying to create fate, we should simply observe it, be grateful and choose to continue on in Faith.

The book seemed more new age, more than anything. My husband had gotten it for me to read. As I perused it, was astounded by how many examples given, could have been God, but might have been something else.  We must learn to TEST whether it is GOD or not. The word of God says to test the spirits. Because if we don’t do that, then we begin to call good evil, and evil good, and THAT is just plain dangerous.

God will USE everything and EXCUSE nothing. In the movie, the Never Ending Story there is wisdom, which is, we become what we believe we are. This boy saw himself as weak, and as He was led on an adventure, He became stronger, and PART of the story itself. Though there are a lot of oddities in the story, it is NOT impossible for us to become what we are around.

So, what IS impossible? Miracles, are they impossible? Resurrection, is that impossible? Birth without physical contact, is that impossible? The word that has been washing over me today, is this, “What is IMPOSSIBLE with man, is POSSIBLE with God.” But, if we never ask for change to come, it may never appear.

I know people who are desperately searching. Some are searching for jobs, some are searching for mates, some for children, some for freedom, and some for just more. The only common denominator that will show us the way is LOVE. Who created love? Was it the devil? Nope, it was GOD. Yet, we run from HIM and convince ourselves that it will never get better. Or, that we just have to settle for how things are.

This is our FAMILY Life verse. We choose this day, to remember the CROSS and the resurrection and be grateful,  for what is to come because of this ultimate sacrifice. ~

Come on now, no matter what happens, it WILL get better. I am speaking to myself here too, cause we are going through some challenges that many don’t know about. Overall we are very transparent people, and most we meet either love that or hate it. But, for better or for worse, it is just who we are, and how God made us. But, there are some things we have learned not to speak about as much, because doing so often creates confusion. We have learned to wait on GOD to reveal what needs to be, in HIS time. If confusion comes after it is revealed, it is HIS job to handle that, thankfully not ours.

Somehow we have to believe that GOD is going to DO the impossible. Because we deserve it? No, that is not why. Because we want it and need it? No, that is NOT why either. Simply, because HE loves us, and regardless of what comes that is the ONE thing that will NEVER ever change.

God’s LOVE seems impossible, but it isn’t. So today, challenge yourself to what LOOKS impossible in your life. Is it a healing that needs to happen? Or perhaps a marriage needing resurrection? A child or children learning to Obey? A deep desire or dream that needs to come to life again?

We know when God winks at us, by the peace that comes when it happens. It is always about HIM, and never about us. For example, I felt a nudge to write today, and I ignored it for a while, but it just kept returning, like a loving HUG. whether anyone ever responds, or gets anything out of what God reveals to us, this is a way of serving HIM. It is being obedient to what He calls us to do,and at times not to do.

While sitting here, I heard a song on the radio, I have not heard in ages. In fact, not since we moved here. This is the song, that some of you may know or recall.

CHRIS TOMLIN

“Holy is the Lord”

We stand and lift up our hands
For the joy of the Lord is our strength
We bow down and worship Him now
How great, how awesome is He

And together we sing

[Chorus]
Holy is the Lord God Almighty
The earth is filled with His glory
Holy is the Lord God Almighty
The earth is filled with His glory
The earth is filled with His glory

We stand and lift up our hands
For the joy of the Lord is our strength
We bow down and worship Him now
How great, how awesome is He

And together we sing
Everyone sing

[Chorus]
Holy is the Lord God Almighty
The earth is filled with His glory
Holy is the Lord God Almighty
The earth is filled with His glory
The earth is filled with His glory

It’s rising up all around
It’s the anthem of the Lord’s renown
Repeat

And together we sing,
Everyone sing

[Chorus]

Holy, Holy, is the Lord Almighty
Holy, Holy
[Repeat 2x]

My husband and I have been partners with a car company on and off for a while, and recently we once again walked away from it. It had been a huge investment, in time and finances. When I heard this song, I was reminded that the man who wrote it bought a car from the company when it first began. It gave me hope that God will bring fruit from the seeds planted. It also reminded me that it is about HIM and HIS timing, not us and ours.

It was impossible for Sarah Elizabeth to be healed of cancer, but she was. It was impossible to start a restaurant, but we did. It was impossible, to move away in 3 days, but it happened. It was impossible for my husband David to be healed of cancer and transformed, but he is. It was impossible for our cat to live, but she did. It was impossible for dad to survive, but he did. What is IMPOSSIBLE with man is ABSOLUTELY possible with GOD!

NOTHING and HE means NOTHING is impossible with HIM!!!!  ~

So, do the impossible, and TRUST (Take Ravaging Up Say Thanks) God, and work with HIM, and learn HIS ways. You won’t regret it, and ultimately the GOOD will FAR out way the challenges. Not to mention, what happened to JESUS at the cross, makes our lives look like  a cake walk. God NEVER condemns, never. He only affirms and chastens. Never lose sight of the LOVE that was given for you and me.

In His Grace,

E

Today when I woke up, and felt led to come write today, the topic I was given was panic. People seem so “terrified” in this world, that some even have panic rooms in their homes. Those rooms are put in place to “protect.” But, it has been shown in some cases, that the protection they offer has often back fired. 

The title of this entry came from a movie called Jerry McGuire. This movie is about relationships. It is about relationships with others, as well as a relationship that one has with self as well. It is a funny satirical look at the world, often through a child’s eyes. In fact, the child steals the show. Isn’t that always true?  There is a scene where 2 of the main characters are talking, and one gets really passionate and somewhat angry about something, and the other says, “see, that is the difference between the 2 of us, you think we are fighting and I think we are finally talking.” 

This stood out to me, because I have felt this way MANY times in my life. As a child I felt I had to fight for my place in the family. There were times, like the child in the movie, I would say outlandish things to get attention, or make someone laugh. There were other times I just quit. I was so wrapped up in my self, and what I thought I wanted. 

Cannot tell you how many times I wished someone had said, “Help me, help you.” I was the baby, a pain to everyone around me it seemed. They gave me stuff to shut me up, and in some cases keep me out of their hair, I thought. But now, I understand that all of the family, did the best they could. The loved me the only way they knew how. 

The openness that I expressed about what was going on, was something new to them, and most of them did not like it, and responded accordingly. This world is broken as a whole. But, Christ came to heal it. God is a God of second chances. Even now, with ALL of the judgement going on  in the world, He is still being merciful and giving Grace and LOVE to those who will receive it. 

Every decision I made then was from FEAR and PANIC. It was always about running from something, yet what I was running into every single time was God. There He was with open arms, He still is, but so much has come to pass, so many have fallen away, so now the arms are still open, for repentance, but discipline must come. 

Any GREAT parent disciplines their children. It is NOT done from meanness or control, it is done from LOVE. Was watching a show today and the person who was a guest was talking about her father. She had spoken something kind to him and it truly touched him. God used the kind words she said, to help him heal and experience God’s love. 

Now, this does not always have to be a face to face interaction, in fact often we have to wait on that so that God can do work behind the scenes. We have seen amazing miracles, God has raised from the dead many around us. yet, this is only the beginning of what is to come. He promises that those who seek HIM in spirit and TRUTH with PURE hearts will see HIS GLORY shine. 

So, think about the relationship with GOD as one where He says, “Help me, help you.” We can help GOD by surrendering to HIS ways, and letting go of past thoughts or patterns. Also, by forgiving ourselves and others, By, sharing HIS LOVE with even a smile, or sincere prayer we can be used by GOD to break through a wall of pain. We can learn about HIS ways, to be able to avoid falling into deceptions and traps. What else can we do to help God? 

Every single day, is NOT perfect, but it IS FULL of GOD’s LOVE. The very fact that we make it from one day into another is HIS mercy and GRACE. The enemy wants us discouraged, wants us to limit GOD and doubt HIM, but the fact is, no matter what, GOD comes through and HE alone will NEVER fail. We must choose to submit to HIM and ask HIM to take over, so what we try and do will succeed, because GOD will do it, not us. 

It must be a daily choice and act to cast our worries on HIM. We often have to choose not to judge and often not to even react. He is a BIG GOD and can handle anything. ~

Also, when we DO REACT, we cannot beat ourselves up about it for what seems like forever, cause this just feeds the enemies ability to cause problems. We must stay humble. ~ 

A few days ago, this came up in our house hold. Years ago, we used to have a huge issue with NOT expressing what we felt. It was especially key in my husband, and no matter what I did to try and teach the children differently, it seemed to affect them as well. 

So, I sat down and had a talk with Sarah Elizabeth, and said,” People fight from time to time. God never said, “don’t get angry.” He said, “Do not sin in the anger.” So, here is what we learned, we were not incredibly nice during this challenge, but we did END it in forgiveness, and it was very healing for ALL of us. 

What was meant for HARM, GOD used for our GOOD. We are grateful. It brought PEACE to our family, and as you know the peace multiplies. For all we know another family at the same time, was being affected by something similar, and suddenly, they felt peace. See, GOD is like that because HIS ways are mysterious. 

One last thing, when Sarah Elizabeth was in the hospital the second time, she felt driven to go. She had 100% peace. THAT was what mattered, it was because she stayed in the peace of GOD that He handled things with such LOVE. She left within 30 days, and while there said, “mom, God must have brought me back here to finish healing me, and to teach me some things that i was not strong enough to learn at age 3.” I said, “You know, God is so amazing that I bet He uses this experience not to just heal you, but to heal HIS whole land!.” She said, “Yeah, God is like that.” It was beautiful, and a precious moment in GOD’s LOVE. 

Today is the 22nd, which means LIGHT. So let yours shine for HIM today and watch HIM bring the GLORY of GOD to fall upon YOU! Help HIM help YOU! Let HIM shine in YOU!

In His Grace,

E

Forgive my bluntness of the title. But, the original one was from Shakespeare’s Macbeth. It was from a scene where there were 3 witches, a quite famous one. They say, “double double toil and trouble.” It is a funny line, and silly too. However, over the used we have learned that the spell used there, actually exists. You can google it, and see for yourself.

So, what the HELL is going on exactly? Well, the supernatural is entering the natural, more than ever before. The veil is being TORN away. What we used to NOT be able to see with natural eyes, we will begin to, more and more. The enemy knows his time is running out, so he is trying to bring as much destruction as possible. But, here is a point to consider, and live by, satan only has the POWER given.

God gave him power in the beginning, because GOD wanted to keep us humble. The enemy may come to kill, steal and destroy, but we do NOT have to LET him. In fact, our job as Children of GOD and warriors in HIM is simple. I was watching a show this morning with a well known best selling Christian author and teacher who said this, “our job is to dispel the darkness.” Something clicked, and I was grateful to GOD to hear this same person, who barely ever discusses real warfare, dig a little deeper.

I know this topic is not an easy one to discuss. Especially now because there are so many movies, books, and songs that talk about it. It is much easier to watch it on film and think, this is make believe, or read it, or even listen to it. But, we have been doing that for far too long as people of GOD. We have been observing long enough, it is time to learn to FIGHT, the right way! It is FAR TIME to stop believing the LIES of the enemy.

If people are intrigued by this topic of darkness, it is understood. As a kid I was always highly fascinated by it. Mainly because there was so much around me! There still is in the world, but thankfully not as much in our own personal life. Because GOD has made it very known, that He takes care of HIS kids. He will fight for you, you need only BE STILL. We are living PROOF!

If you have ever read the bible, you can see that the times that God warned us about are approaching. Now, some are 100% convinced we are so far a long, there is no turning back. That we are where it LOOKS like we are. Many are just terrified and often make poor decisions under the spells of the world. But, I ask this, “Would God ever give us every single aspect of HIS plan?” Or perhaps, would He save some surprises for later?

Looking at God’s track record, He absolutely LOVES us so much, that HE sends us small surprises, medium surprises, and BIG surprises. Every single one of them, is powerful! There are great surprises and ones that seem unsettling at first. But, when we surrender these to GOD and receive them as He desires, no matter the feelings or emotions that arrive with the surprises, GOD can take the ashes and make them beautiful.

So, the point is not don’t watch certain movies, or go certain places. It is more that if you do without being protected and under the shadow of HIS wings, it is just plain dangerous! As a kid I had deep depression. It started when I was abt 3, and kept getting worse. I was so sad, and I was taught to put on a happy face. My husband also struggled for years with depression. I am thrilled to say we do NOT struggle anymore. God healed us!

Now, we understand because we have learned this, that on the CROSS where Jesus died, all the pain we were feeling was TAKEN ON by HIM. For years we went through agony, trying to FIX the problems ourselves, or even going to “doctors,” like a GOD thinking they could fix the problem.

Sometimes only GOD ALONE can heal. He uses ALL kinds of avenues for sure, but the ones we used to see as safe have really proven not to be, at least NOT to the degree that we thought it would be. The enemy seems to have infiltrated government, and law enforcement, to name a few. But, to encourage you all, so has GOD!

We also know in our hearts, even though at times, we scratch our head and ask what IS going on, that it is ONLY temporary, and NOT always what it seems to be. I had someone share recently that someone planted nails outside of her brand new vehicle. It terrified her. Likely it was a kid just thinking it would be funny, but those kind of pranks are anything but.

It is time we start to take responsibility for our actions as a people. I mean, look at the country where we live. We have ignored things so long, and people have said, “Well it’s going to HELL in a hand basket.” So why are we surprised to see THAT playing out?

Here is another question, Can we be redeemed? Because as His PEOPLE we absolutely can and we already HAVE, as a country, well only GOD knows what it will take for that to happen. But, I do believe we can pray for mercy. Back to our friend who almost got hurt, well she didn’t. God saved her life. So, now her job is to forgive and to RECEIVE that protection and LOVE.

But, so often we FIGHT GOD, and one example is Jacob who wrestled with GOD. How many of US have done that? I can say we did it for years, and finally submitted to HIS ways. We still wonder about something and question God sometimes, but there is Grace to learn and grow. It is not from a place of meanness, or control anymore. It is from a place of a genuine and our heart for HIS people.

We used to say, ” We know that GOD will send us people just trapped in evil ways for HIM to use us to minister to.” So again, why were we surprised, when they showed up at our front door, literally?  Thankfully, what could have been really bad, and even deadly in some cases, was prevented. GOD always protected us, and still does. people still show up at our door, but because we learned in HIM how to decipher and discern, we are NOT shaken by it anymore.

He keeps what He does secret until time for it to be revealed. For many in this time of what looks like imminent FEAR and destruction, really “horrible” things are coming. But even those things that APPEAR at first to be terrifying, have a lesson and a purpose. He will teach you, if and when YOU are ready to learn.  For he desires to REACH you before you eternally BURN.

I remember when Sarah Elizabeth got sick, my very first thought was, “What did we do wrong?” I had friends that said, no kids just get sick. But to me, that was just an excuse. So, I put on my detective hat, and began to research WHY people get sick. What I learned was people get sick for several reasons. The most common reason is our environment.

Then, I started thinking about the kind of environment we had lived in since she was born. It was then anything but Happy. 🙁 We were angry, bitter, fearful, in pain, deeply hurt, and just plain BROKEN. My husband and I have now been married almost 7 years, and I am thrilled to say that about the 3rd year things began to dramatically change, for the GOOD. Now, at first it hurt like HELL, because it was so uncomfortable. We had developed habits of ignoring the bad stuff. We had to learn to go to GOD and deal with it, to get to the GOOD.

When we started to, in prayer and in daily LIFE,  to address what looked really BAD, the mountains crumbled, people were healed, and FREEDOM, JOY, PEACE, LOVE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, and ALL of the other fruits of the spirit came in place of the AWFUL stuff. You give GOD a happy home to inhabit, and evil cannot dwell there!!! 🙂

My  husband had 2 years prior to her diagnosis been very ill, in fact close to death with a similar thing. They wanted him to have surgery, but after A LOT of prayer, he opted NOT to. It was definitely the best decision for him, because when he said no to that, he said yes to something else. He said YES to GOD’s will for his LIFE. This does not mean surgery is bad. It simply should be a LAST resort. He then took  at least 5 months of of work, and spent time with GOD. He watched DVD’s, read the bible and received the healing. He took supplements, and did juicing, but most importantly He, for the first time in his life, ever nurtured the body, he was given, the temple of GOD.

It’s interesting that when he was ill, I took no responsibility. He was an adult, and then I did not see MY part in it. Thankfully I do now, by the Grace of GOD. I can see that as a wife I had a responsibility and still do to speak LIFE over my spouse and NOT death. I was so negative and spoke a lot from pain. I finally began to understand  and DIGEST that the POWER of LIFE and DEATH really is in the tongue.

However, when Sarah E was ill, I took immediate responsibility. Why is that? Well because when D was ill, it was not tangible to me. When Sarah E was ill, somehow it was. What we did learn is people don’t have to just GET sick. There was a healing ministry by a man named John G. Lake, which is still active today, and it was used by GOD to close hospitals down.

Not saying there is no purpose for hospitals, or doctors, but the point is this, if THEY heal you and THEY take credit, then GOD is just a word. Some give God credit, but many times, in medical experiences, we have looked at the circumstance and wondered why most physicians do not see the WHOLE picture. In the hospital with Sarah E, after she was out of the hospital, they would not give her any of the “perks” that she received while being a patient.

It may sound like we are upset, but we are NOT anymore. WE are just so passionate about healing, deliverance and salvation. We are DRIVEN by the things that are of GOD, and we desire to work with HIM to share HIS LOVE in ALL areas, wherever He leads us.  ~

In His Grace,

E

Hello everyone, today as I woke God impressed it upon me to talk about GAMES. One time someone told me, “life is what you make of it.” I would edit that a bit and say if we try to make it go a certain way, it back fires like an explosion in our face. LIFE is supposed to be an adventure, but if we PLAN everything how can it be?

This picture is from Laura Croft Tomb Raider. Though I have never seen the movie, and have heard much critique about the evil, I do believe we should be explorers, even in GOD. We cannot shut out evil and ignore it. It must addressed and dealt with or it begins to DEAL with us instead. GOD can use anything! He cannot be limited!!!

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

In the beginning, until about 3 years ago, I and actually we, had every intention of doing it my way and our way and calling it GOD. It was not like we were really aware that was what we were doing, and had to eventually realize it, and learn to stay surrendered to HIM and HIS ways. Not to mention say we were sorry to GOD for trying to do HIS job. Our pride had to be given up. This is still a daily reaffirmation of the covenant that we made with HIM. We committed to doing our part to stay healthy and be good examples.

We always desire only to give GOD the best we possibly can. We have devotionals almost daily as a family, as well as prayer time. GOD moves very strongly around us and uses us for HIS purpose, but it is HE that always gets the GLORY. It is a JOY to be loved by and to serve our awesome GOD!!!!

This does not mean we strive though, we used to because that was what we were taught, that we had to EARN God’s LOVE. This is an absolute fallacy, because HIS LOVE is there free and clear, and everything that we try and do to earn it, actually complicates the plan GOD has for us to receive it. There was a MAJOR price paid by Christ so that we could receive it.

So, now to the title of this blog post. Have always seen life as a game. There is even a board game titled LIFE. Kids and adults play video games, about creating LIFE and cities. We play games for entertainment and enjoyment. But the enemy has a plan for evil, and many things are hidden in those games.

I have never learned to play CHESS, but I do know the premise of the game. Basically THIS is how I see LIFE, like a BIG chess board. In our lives only GOD can say check mate. He moves people in and out of our lives. Games can be used for GOOD and for evil. Am in no way advocating that we should hate life.

But, looking at the fact that we all sin, we must not hate the sinner, but the games the sinner plays and the evil surrounding and at times within them. So, the phrase “Don’t hate the player hate the game,” is simply a new spin on LOVE the sinner NOT the sin.

Here is the danger with just saying that phrase. It indirectly excuses the sin, without it being dealt with. There is no accountability in it at all. There is only REBELLION and disobedience. NOTHING that is GOOD ever comes from a life filled with rebellion. It is sad, full of despair, often hard core drugs, alcohol, and other kinds of complications. For many it has led to death.

Only GOD knows whether those stuck in that place got out before breathing their final breath. I choose to believe that GOD is a merciful GOD, and that He gave them every chance available to reach their destiny in HIM. But, I also know that there are MAJOR consequences for intentionally coming against GOD.

So, here is my question, what if we were to LOVE the player and the GAME? How much difference would we see? Would we see instant relief and healing? Perhaps we would. 🙂 Maybe we should TRY it and see.

We all love animals, and if a person does not like animals, I dare say he or she has not experienced the love of God. Because they are each such a beautiful GIFT from HIM! The animals LOVE unconditionally. They RECEIVE discipline and correction. WE as humans could learn a lot from animals. This is why we study them so diligently.

Even though we did not come FROM the animals, we did come from the same place, from GOD who created us. 🙂 When I have been sad, and feeling disconnected, one of the cats would always come and nuzzle me, and LOVE on me. One day I became AWARE that GOD was sending them to do so.

In the same token, when we are not being consistently loving to them, they have gotten ill. Also true when we are not taking care of ourselves. Look at the sacrifices that animals make for us? I know they can be a harm to us, BUT only when we are in FEAR and not PEACE. They were made to work with us and in some cases FOR us.

So, regarding games, I personally do not think they are bad. I believe that they have a purpose, and it can be for GOOD or for EVIL. We always lead children to pray over what is watched, read, or played. The prayer that is said is LORD, protect us from what you don’t want us to see, and show us what you do; signed in JESUS name and blood for HIS GLORY.

Today, if you are willing ask GOD to teach you. We no longer tell people they should or should not watch, read or listen to something. But we do share information as it is given to us about what is hidden in movies, books, clothes, etc.. Mainly, because knowledge is an aspect of becoming wise. In the world we live in wisdom is essential.

However, worldly wisdom is not nearly AS essential as wisdom that comes from God. When we get a cold, we are trained to take medicine, but sometimes that cold has a point, a spiritual root. Some authors have researched it and found it relates to confusion. This is just one example. Our family does not hate doctors, but we do not use them until we are in PEACE.

God has purpose for everything. The medical field started out to be one of healing and hope, and over time has gotten distorted. The pharmaceutical companies are often led by GREED and PRIDE. Even at a hospital, it is hard to be seen if you have no insurance. GOD is working on it though, we are coming into a beautiful season of healing.

For those willing to seek GOD and partner with HIM, there will be what seems like no limits. Because GOD cannot be limited, and when He moves in us, we literally become SUPER HEROES in HIM!!!!

There has always been lots of judgement for us choosing GOD’s ways over the world, we don’t expect that to stop. People have said they don’t like something, or it makes them uncomfortable. But, here is our response. We were uncomfortable too at first. But now, we are at peace with the discomfort that sometimes comes. GOD is changing and transforming HIS people who are willing receive HIS LOVE.

So, LOVE the players in the GREATEST game ever, LIFE!!!!

In His Grace,

E

This morning, and even yesterday it was impressed upon me to write on Surrender. I kept trying to write about it, and I guess needed more time to understand it myself. Most people consider giving up an aspect of quitting. We think about a child who gets ANGRY and just says, “FINE then, I GIVE UP!” I recall saying this as a kid, and have said it a few times as an adult. But, thankfully He knows my heart. He knows that when I GIVE UP it is NOT about quitting, it is about HIM taking over. 

Because we seek HIM so much we are highly picked on, persecuted, ridiculed, mocked, slandered and even threatened. But, we are not surprised at all. Look at Jesus’s LIFE while here on earth. He endured the exact same thing! The word says we are to REJOICE when this happens. But, doing so takes a miracle and the POWER of GOD. 

In our FLESH and our MIND we are trained to just keep on going. But, sometimes we have to STOP and REST. Because entering into the REST of GOD is a weapon against the evil. When we “give up” it does not have to be BAD. It can actually be a VERY GOOD thing. When we GO GO GO too much, our bodies rebel and we receive sickness. The enemy strikes when we are TIRED, HUNGRY, HURT, UNSETTLED,  and feeling SAD or EMOTIONALLY DRAINED, 

Have you all noticed this? There is a phrase that is old which is “strike while the Iron is hot.” God’s word says IRON sharpens IRON. The enemy strikes when we are VERY UNCOMFORTABLE. So, let’s say there has been a death in the family. God can bring healing, but the enemy brings more pain. When my mother died in 2000, I grieved for 5 years straight. I know people in our family, who are still grieving, and she has been gone now, for over 12 years.

There is no judgement on how long it takes for someone to heal. Everyone does this at their own pace, and depending on where they are. What we do is just continue to pray. God leads us, but that does not mean GOD leads everyone. Oh what a world it would be, IF He did. But, in order to have GOD lead you, there must be a daily choice made for HIM and HIS purposes. 

There must be a complete SURRENDER in body, soul, mind, spirit, and emotions to HIM. Because if we do NOT do this, indirectly we surrender to the world and it’s god, instead.

The movie that has been kind of flashing through my mind is “The Wizard of Oz.” This movie has a lot of symbolism for both evil and good. But it has to be deciphered. Since I was a little child, I have wanted to pull things apart, get to the core. My mother was an English teacher, and I loved to then, and still now, read and figure out books.

In that film, the scene that comes to mind while sharing this, is  when Dorothy gets a message in the sky from the wicked witch of the WEST. Am certain almost ALL of you have seen it, where it says, “SURRENDER DOROTHY.” This is what the world is saying to us, if you do not surrender to me, you will die. She was in FEAR for her LIFE in the movie. But, what happened? She was rescued. Because she had a pure heart and soul. 

Do you need to be rescued? Cause I DO!!! Every singe day God rescues me, in fact our whole family. Another movie, which has kind of a similar plot line is “The Princess Bride.” It is my favorite film of all time. It is such a GREAT allegory of GOD’s RELENTLESS LOVE for US! My favorite part is when He falls down the hill, and cries out, “as you wish.” Buttercup then realizes that this man, the one she has been so mean and cruel to, IS her great LOVE. 

So here is a question to ponder, Do we do this to God? I know I have before. I am not ashamed to admit it, because if sharing my past and bad choices helps someone, it is worth it. I absolutely have been the MOST hateful to GOD. He loves me so much, and I have run from HIM, yelled at HIM, and in some cases denied HIS power. I know that when these things happened, I was very deeply wounded. I mean, in some cases just bleeding out from PAIN. 

Our Children belong to HIM, and came from GOD. The enemy cannot and will NOT ever produce LIFE! Because only GOD can and he, the devil, can only bring DEATH. 

I have even almost physically died, numerous times, as well as had one time where I was paralyzed for probably abt 15-30 minutes. I say these things not to scare anyone, and really it does not bother me if people don’t believe it. Because GOD alone knows my heart. He ALONE has saved me and resurrects me daily, as well as ALL of us in our family and in the FAMILY of GOD.

We kind of live in a FOG from this world, but in a good way. FOG is dense and it is hard to see through it. Just like GOD! 🙂 

So, here is another question to ponder, Can the enemy or the devil answer prayers of the people of GOD? there is NOTHING in the word of that says that he can. When we are surrendering to GOD daily, and when we are in 100% SURRENDER to GOD, the enemy has NO POWER!!!

This is HUGELY important! If you want FREEDOM, GOD has granted it! So just reach up and RECEIVE!!!!

Love to ALL and we welcome your comments and questions. 🙂 

In His Grace,

E

Today am being led to talk about faith without works. Last night we went to a great bible study, with people who love GOD. It was a huge blessing. As usual, the enemy tried to damper things, with his darkness, but he cannot undo God’s love and peace. What happened was before we left, a little boy about 6 years old had a big shelf fall on him. Thankfully, by God’s grace, it just grazed his face. More than anything, it just frightened him. We anointed his face, prayed over him, used some ice, and swelling went down. There is not even a mark on his face, praise GOD!!!

This started me pondering something, what happens when in LIFE a circumstance like debt, or lack, or pain falls on us? Who do we turn to first. My first instinct in the past when we felt a symptom, like pain, was to head to see a doctor. I used to really have issues with medicine. Thankfully, GOD brought me to a place of understanding in HIM. He taught me that He can use anything, but HE excuses nothing. Great parents use discipline in LOVE and don’t spare the rod.

When we experienced lack before or debt, there was major condemnation that came with it. It was like we had not held up our end of the bargain, so to speak. Which on some level, we probably had not, but there were also many obstacles put  in place creating conflict. But, last night my husband and I were talking about how when we did “have it all” according to the world’s standards, or even just had more, how complicated it was. Because of what we had learned from the world, and people in it, we did not know how to enjoy it, without guilt.

I remember before we moved, I was speaking to one of my beautiful sister’s in GRACE, and I said something along the line of, “we need a BIG change and I mean now.” She said, careful saying that, cause I sense something bad could happen. I began to wonder if that was something GOD showed her or not. When we left it was such a gift. Being able to walk away, and leave everything behind, and have a NEW LIFE and FRESH start, was beyond words a package of GOD’s LOVE!

Now, when we did those things, we had little time to react. people ask why we moved, and we can only say we felt the season was done. Some don’t understand being led by God’s peace. Not faulting anyone for that, but will say, there is no PEACE and no LOVE like that of GOD.

The topic here is 18 for LIFE because, as a kid around 18 most of what I had learned up to then was put into practice. I actually think if we all observe our life till now, we would say that it was a progression of getting to where we are now. I mean, that is kind of obvious, but let’s think about that age. 18, is the biblical number of bondage. So, statistics say that if a person does not come to know GOD by then, they likely won’t. I personally don’t know whether statistics are correct, but what I do know is if they have not experienced GOD, it is harder to recognize HIS LOVE.

Last night as I was going to sleep, I thought of a song from the past. One that resonates with a lot of what is happening in our world today. The song, was by a band called SKID ROW. It was called 18 and Life. In the song the band sings of a guy who had a hard life, tried to work hard but got mixed up with drugs and guns and violence. Ultimately this man’s life led him to prison.

It was ODD for me to think of this song. I have been doing a lot of research about music, and the industry and how the enemy, satan, has been trying to wreak havoc. We listened to and watched a video about it. So many are living life in that prison. They stopped growing around 18, and just decided they had to do whatever need to be done, so their needs could be met.

The only reason that we know this, is because it took the relentless LOVE of GOD to break US free. Eventually GOD will send us more and more places to meet with new people. I can say as a human, I would rather just sit home and pray. I know many people who do that. But, I can also say as  COGS (Children of GOD Supers) in HIS wheel, a CHILD of GOD, that He makes super when needed, I can’t do that. In fact, we shouldn’t do that.

God needs us! He created us to work with HIM and for a specific purpose and destiny.

Again, no judgement on those who sit back and just pray, and none on who don’t pray at all. Many are praying for you, that is for sure. But, if we want change to happen, we cannot look to government, or anyone else to make it so. WE have to step out in FAITH and trust that GOD will perfect our ways. Will we mess up sometimes? ABSOLUTELY! Has God accounted for that in HIS plan? ABSOLUTELY!

So, the last thing I feel led to add is this. Faith without works is DEAD. That means that when we do not OBEY God we are dead inside. Now, some will get defensive and that is very normal. I used to get defensive, so did my husband and even our kids. But, here is the bottom line, if defense happens, something is hidden and covered up.

When we WANT the change to happen, bad enough, we will work with GOD, not against HIM. Now some will say well I don’t work against GOD. But, when we choose every day to do it our way and not HIS way, we are not working for HIM or the goals and plans he has set into motion.

The fearful time of destruction does not have to be now, GOD gave us choice for a reason. He gave us LOVE for a purpose. FAITH without HIS WORKS in us, and through us as well as around us is dead. But, “take heart, for HE has overcome the world!” He will resurrect the GIFT of faith, just watch, pray and see HIS GLORY come to LIFE!!!!

Choose to GROW UP in HIM and you will be amazed what wonders you will enjoy even more. Not to mention the freedom that comes when HE breaks us out of prison after prison!!! Receiving HIS LOVE, and loving HIM in return, there is NOTHING better than that. ~

In His Grace,

E

Today is the 1st of March, and when I woke up I began to think about this month and all the connections. There are the Ides of March for one. It was a fateful day where much destruction came. Destruction can come in all forms. Something may look destroyed, and may actually just have a need to be put back together. It is also a month where Spring begins and harvest comes! We must be aware of the BAD but encouraged by the GOOD.

We had something like this happen yesterday. It was a minor thing, but has a great big major lesson. Our kittens that are now going on a year were playing. The male, knocked our puzzle off the table. We looked at it and at first thought,” well we could put it away.”Then, we rethought it and decided to restore it! Cause that is what GOD does with us.

After having a series of ODD dreams, the mind attack I got was, “God must hate me for such and such.” Immediately, I was convicted and reminded, almost as a gentle HUG that it just was not true. Papa LOVES us! In fact, He loves ME too. 🙂

So, ruminating on this, even with a child who has a strong will about her smoothie, and almost missed the bus, trying to get hubby off to start his day, and the animals settled, and anything else that comes, brings comfort. It is so common to go to that place, where we likely began as a child, feeling rejected like an old shoe that does not fit anymore.

To think in our minds, or even to speak it, “But, He hates me.” However, our prayer, as a family, is that people in this season; where things appear really scary and way colder, will experience even more the LOVE of GOD. It is the ONLY thing that can save us.

There is no natural weapon that exists that is more powerful than the LOVE of GOD. It says we love, because He first loved us. The word tells us we were loved even when we were still sinning. So, all those who may be caught in a web of sin, He loves YOU!

The point is to overcome whatever pulls us away from GOD. If our career does so, it has become idol, if our kids, family, friends, etc… God is clear about being a jealous God. He wants absolutely NOTHING above HIM. It is HE that has overcome and will do so in US!

The time is definitely changing, and everyday we praise GOD for having HIS way, no matter how it appears. Because if we let the appearances dictate our actions, from a fearful place, we will surely not make it very far.

I am by no means flawless, yet GOD sees me that way. He sees the potential of that spotless daughter and He stays focused on that. So, in turn, from respect I go, in fact we do as a family, and ask HIM to cleanse us of this world, and of any sin. We repent, which simply means to turn away from and change the choices.

Does this make life perfect? No. But, does it make it peaceful? YES! This is a time in the world we live in where we must REST in God. If someone is not a believer, we must pray and praise GOD for whatever his or her destiny is to become.

Grateful every moment that our destiny, and that of every child we receive is to serve GOD. Words cannot describe how grateful I am, and we are. 🙂 My heart aches for those who may never know or get an opportunity to see in action GOD’s LOVE.

If GOD did it for us, and does it for us, He can and will do it for you! We pray the armor of GOD over ALL believers. We speak LIFE and not DEATH. We speak blessings not curses. Remember though, that GOD will often have us experience the BAD and UGLY, holding HIS hand so that we can understand more, be able to see, and appreciate the GOOD!

The world, and the small god of it will try and make you terrified of the signs and wonders that are occurring. The enemy uses no new tactics, when doing so. The verse that came to mind this morning as a warning was this one in Luke.

He does NOT HATE us, so tell that devil to go! The lies of the enemy are not welcome among the COGS!!! (Children of GOD SUPERS)

In His Grace,

E

Do you want to experience the GLORY of God? I want you all to know something, if you had asked me this question a few years ago, I would have said NO WAY. This is because I really believed that I was unworthy, useless, worse than dirt of the ground. I had been pushed down, and kicked, betrayed, and hurt. Now, I know ya’ll can relate to this. Cause the enemy has no new tactics. 

If you are a non believer, it is even worse than if you are a believer. There are many who have said to us, “sometimes I wonder if I should have chosen to follow Christ.” Our response, well when you do so, there is a level of protection, mercy ,and grace that comes, that you cannot receive otherwise. You begin to find out that He sees you as worthy.

The word says He loved us while we were yet still sinning. So, this means, when we reject sin and choose HIM, that LOVE can shine even more. THIS is the GLORY of the LORD! This means that we consciously choose, and then practice the art of walking by Faith. Is this easy? NOPE. Is it worth it? YEP!

Long ago, in our lives we learned through Revelation that GLORY is about not just the finished product, or end result, but ALL the STUFF in between. When Sarah Elizabeth went through cancer we began to search the heart of God. We ask HIM to search our hearts, but transformation happens when we search HIS. 

When David had cancer, we also sought God. He taught us that sickness is not what we think. That, as humans it is common to be trained to look at the symptoms, and not the root. The root 100% of the time of disease is spiritual. That does not mean other aspects cannot be factors. But, the root is not of this world. 

Cannot count on both hands how many believers have said this, “:well, we live in a sinful world!” Here is the response we now give. Sin was actually cleansed, forgiven and redeemed at the cross with Jesus’s death and then resurrection or New LIFE came in return. This means the curses we should have experienced, we now can choose to claim FREEDOM from. This one act brought about an opportunity for deliverance, healing and salvation of everyone.

That does not mean that ALL will choose it. In fact in the book of Revelation, He talks about the many people who will not. But, our job is not to save them, it is to LOVE them. So many people are so concerned about saving people. They are trying to do a job that is not OURS to do! So, get this, that steals from God’s glory.

God is continually showing us that the CORE of the problems that plague us is SPIRITUAL! We fight not against FLESH and BLOOD. So many are dying and missing OUT on the GLORY of GOD. We are seeing this all over the place. Sickness does not have to be a death sentence. It can actually become an opportunity for God’s Grace, LOVE, Mercy, Peace and JOY to be birthed in us. 

God tells us He will turn our mourning into dancing!!!! He will turn our anguish to JOY!

Listen, we are living proof of this! Every single day, in fact, lately every moment, we choose HIS JOY! That does not mean we never screw up, or never sin. It means that it does not take ROOT in us anymore. The JOY of the LORD is our strength.

All of this is a portion of HIS GLORY! So, again, do you want to see HIS GLORY? Do u want sickness out of the homes, churches, and world? Cause if you do, there are things that must be put in place for it to come. God has given us a template and we must be trained in HIM, so we can train HIS babes. It is He in us that does so. So, guess what, we can’t fail! God does not FAIL!!!!!!

Papa, bring your GLORY GLORY GLORY for your people who love you. Help us to seek your way, not our own. To recognize that ALL we have been given is yours. Make us good stewards, and posses us for your purpose and plan. Protect, guard us, and put a wall of fire around us as you send us out to share your LOVE!

In Jesus of Nazareth’s name and BLOOD 

Amen

Continuing to pray that the GLORY multiplies in the BODY of CHRIST! Let us know if anyone is led, to share prayer requests. We Love you ALL!

In His Grace,

E