Isaiah 64:3,4, "Since before time began no one has ever imagined, no ever heard, no eye seen a God like you who works for those who wait for Him."
"No. No one has ever seen God. We hear of God, a lot. We hear about God. We see God's works, but we have not seen God. Many saw Jesus, but didn't know He was God in human form. He looked and sounded like a man. His works told us of His God-ness. Still today we only see or hear of God's works, examples below.
"Like, a daughter who arranged for yellow ribbons to be tied on the trees in her neighborhood to honor the young man from the same neighborhood leaving for war in Iraq. The young man's mother cried over this act of God's love. And then, another daughter who gave her car to a friend because the friend didn't have one. Like a son who traveled back and forth overseas in three days to attend the memorial of a friend's mother. Like a granddaughter who gave up her summer to teach other kids through song and dance the importance of a relationship with God. These are just a few examples from my own family and all of them over a period of many years. These are ways that I have seen God.
"And just this evening, me with a shoulder still aching, I was treated with a caramel sundae with pecans. This is the way we see God, through the gifts of one another given and received in love. So, I see God through the love of others in this world. Oh, yes! Eyes do see and ears can hear God at work--through His people, my friends, through you and me, and His others around us."
God, help us to be your hands and your feet to serve and your eyes and ears to see and hear the needs around us. Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, July 31, 2015
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
A NEW DAY, A NEW TOMORROW
I am still recovering from shoulder surgery, but feeling good enough to try to type. I see it's working, so tomorrow morning, I will begin again and do a shortie on the God who Hears our Prayers.
Thanks for your patience!
Thanking God for His love and for yours!
Jo INMN
Thanks for your patience!
Thanking God for His love and for yours!
Jo INMN
Saturday, July 18, 2015
KEEP A NOBLE MINDSET
Jerry, 10 yrs. ago, serves well today. His entry for the journal is based on Isaiah 32:6,8, "For fools speak folly and their minds plot inequity. But those who are noble plan noble things, and by noble things they stand."
"The prophet Isaiah makes very clear that our lives will go down the path that dominates our mindset. If we think nobly, noble deeds will result. If we think foolishness, foolish and destructive actions will occur, and we will deny our faith. When our minds are allowed to wander into areas that are destructive, our actions become perverted and not Christ-like. Nothing just "happens." All actions are first determined in the mind!
"The mindset I have determines the road that I will travel. If I focus my mind on high things, noble things, good things, that is the action I will take. It can be no other way. I don't stray into foolish actions without first considering those actions in my mindset. "Lord Jesus, Keep my mind on you so that my actions, words, and deeds will reflect your love and grace to and for others. Amen."
I couldn't agree more with Jerry's suggestions. Now, I have something coming up that will put me out of commission for a while. So, I need to warn you: I will probably not feel up to typing for a few days. Tomorrow is Sunday, and I do not blog on Sunday. The following Monday I will be in surgery, getting a new left shoulder that should work without so much pain. So, when the healing lets me type without discomfort, look for us again and read Jo's blog about Jerry's and Jo's journal entries of
10 yrs. ago. I hope you are enjoying the teaching! I seem to need to hear it all once again. Looking forward to your presence!
Jo INMN
"The prophet Isaiah makes very clear that our lives will go down the path that dominates our mindset. If we think nobly, noble deeds will result. If we think foolishness, foolish and destructive actions will occur, and we will deny our faith. When our minds are allowed to wander into areas that are destructive, our actions become perverted and not Christ-like. Nothing just "happens." All actions are first determined in the mind!
"The mindset I have determines the road that I will travel. If I focus my mind on high things, noble things, good things, that is the action I will take. It can be no other way. I don't stray into foolish actions without first considering those actions in my mindset. "Lord Jesus, Keep my mind on you so that my actions, words, and deeds will reflect your love and grace to and for others. Amen."
I couldn't agree more with Jerry's suggestions. Now, I have something coming up that will put me out of commission for a while. So, I need to warn you: I will probably not feel up to typing for a few days. Tomorrow is Sunday, and I do not blog on Sunday. The following Monday I will be in surgery, getting a new left shoulder that should work without so much pain. So, when the healing lets me type without discomfort, look for us again and read Jo's blog about Jerry's and Jo's journal entries of
10 yrs. ago. I hope you are enjoying the teaching! I seem to need to hear it all once again. Looking forward to your presence!
Jo INMN
Friday, July 17, 2015
PERSONAL MESSAGES
Here we go...a 10yr. old message , written by Jo, and credited to the book of James, chapter 1, verses 21 and 22a. "Be humble; accept the message that is planted in you to save you..Obey God's message."
"James speaks to the early Christians of a message that has been planted within each of us when we become a Christian. I'm curious. Is this a message given individually regarding the sin each of us carries? Or is it a general message to love and honor God that we might be one of God's chosen children? Or maybe it's both.
"Well, it could be specific in my case. I had a lot of anger in my life for a long time, smarting anew whenever someone found fault with me. It was as if I was saying, "Don't you know how hard I am trying? Can't you give me credit for that?" But, I have mellowed some. I realize an early perception of being an un-favored child was faulty. I'm more gentle with my errors now. I still am a coward regarding criticism, but realize it is needed for growth and humility.
"God, You are the perfect teacher and I see now how important it is to hear your suggestions that bring growth. Keep working on me, Lord! I need it! ( I love to please you, Lord!) Amen."
That was my old journal entry! It is hard for me to believe that so much time has gone by and I still need to have God working on me! Anger doesn't scare me quite as often as it did...and I thank God for that! But when I do have an outburst of anger, I am immediately mortified and know I am blaming someone faultily. I am thankful that God shows me my anger is not rightfully placed; I am the one who is at fault. Forgiveness is what I look for and given to the one whom I have faulted. God is teaching me, day by day. I am grateful for the love that surrounds me and for those who offer me forgiveness.
I pray that you are working on your humility, too, if there is a need. I am thankful I can give my frustration a name, and that I have the trust that God is in charge. I hope you have that trust, also, to be thankful for!
Jo INMN
"James speaks to the early Christians of a message that has been planted within each of us when we become a Christian. I'm curious. Is this a message given individually regarding the sin each of us carries? Or is it a general message to love and honor God that we might be one of God's chosen children? Or maybe it's both.
"Well, it could be specific in my case. I had a lot of anger in my life for a long time, smarting anew whenever someone found fault with me. It was as if I was saying, "Don't you know how hard I am trying? Can't you give me credit for that?" But, I have mellowed some. I realize an early perception of being an un-favored child was faulty. I'm more gentle with my errors now. I still am a coward regarding criticism, but realize it is needed for growth and humility.
"God, You are the perfect teacher and I see now how important it is to hear your suggestions that bring growth. Keep working on me, Lord! I need it! ( I love to please you, Lord!) Amen."
That was my old journal entry! It is hard for me to believe that so much time has gone by and I still need to have God working on me! Anger doesn't scare me quite as often as it did...and I thank God for that! But when I do have an outburst of anger, I am immediately mortified and know I am blaming someone faultily. I am thankful that God shows me my anger is not rightfully placed; I am the one who is at fault. Forgiveness is what I look for and given to the one whom I have faulted. God is teaching me, day by day. I am grateful for the love that surrounds me and for those who offer me forgiveness.
I pray that you are working on your humility, too, if there is a need. I am thankful I can give my frustration a name, and that I have the trust that God is in charge. I hope you have that trust, also, to be thankful for!
Jo INMN
Thursday, July 16, 2015
BE DISCIPLINED AND BECOME TRAINED TO RIGHTEOUSNESS
Jerry chose Heb. 12:7,10,11 in 2006 to write about and here it is today, just as important to know now as then. "Endure trials for the sake of discipline as God disciplines us for our own good, in order that we might share in His holiness...Discipline always seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
"The writer of Hebrews energizes the reader to remember that discipline is not pleasant for us but it does train us to righteousness. As I look over my life, I can see that discipline in many areas of life experience has helped me to become a better person, a person who loves to be a friend of Jesus and to help others come to Him. Without discipline and testing my life may have gone down a wrong path, a path leading to destruction, pain, and death. Lord Jesus, I praise you for disciplining me to bring me to the place that I can walk with you. Amen."
Perhaps you are wondering.."What does a trial for the sake of disciplining from God look like?" Illness might be one trial, or loss of a job, a child dying or extremely ill, loss of a home, an extreme disappointment of any kind might bring one a sense of life being too painful , and it feels as though there is little hope. It is not that God causes tragedies, but it is that God uses tragedy to teach us better ways to live our lives. We have read of trials in the bible, the most powerful, I think, was the one of Job. And yet, Job did not quit God; therefore, God did not quit Job.
You may also ask, "What does one do in case of a Godly trial in your life?" Give a prayer of thanks for all God has previously done for you, is right to do. Acknowledge your faith in God. Ask for guidance, that you do not become overwhelmed, and do what you rightfully can for yourself and your family. Always pray, and ask others to pray. Accept help when offered, but be sure you need help, and advise others when you do not. Keep trusting, even if things look gloomy. Read about Job. Never stop believing that God has things under control, even when things look the darkest. Don't keep track of the amount of time that has gone by, except to see it is amazing that you have made it without pain this far! Cheer yourself up at a drive-in treat, rather than be sad that you can't afford the steak-house! And keep trusting God, no matter how much time has gone by. Thank Him for all He is teaching you about faith and keeping on, faithfully. And God will bless you. And others will see your faith and be blessed, too. I have seen all of this in the life of those I love.
These things are wonderful to learn, either by having a trial in your own life or by seeing one being worked out in another's life. Hanging on by your toenails is a grand thing to learn. Watch for it!
Jo INMN
"The writer of Hebrews energizes the reader to remember that discipline is not pleasant for us but it does train us to righteousness. As I look over my life, I can see that discipline in many areas of life experience has helped me to become a better person, a person who loves to be a friend of Jesus and to help others come to Him. Without discipline and testing my life may have gone down a wrong path, a path leading to destruction, pain, and death. Lord Jesus, I praise you for disciplining me to bring me to the place that I can walk with you. Amen."
Perhaps you are wondering.."What does a trial for the sake of disciplining from God look like?" Illness might be one trial, or loss of a job, a child dying or extremely ill, loss of a home, an extreme disappointment of any kind might bring one a sense of life being too painful , and it feels as though there is little hope. It is not that God causes tragedies, but it is that God uses tragedy to teach us better ways to live our lives. We have read of trials in the bible, the most powerful, I think, was the one of Job. And yet, Job did not quit God; therefore, God did not quit Job.
You may also ask, "What does one do in case of a Godly trial in your life?" Give a prayer of thanks for all God has previously done for you, is right to do. Acknowledge your faith in God. Ask for guidance, that you do not become overwhelmed, and do what you rightfully can for yourself and your family. Always pray, and ask others to pray. Accept help when offered, but be sure you need help, and advise others when you do not. Keep trusting, even if things look gloomy. Read about Job. Never stop believing that God has things under control, even when things look the darkest. Don't keep track of the amount of time that has gone by, except to see it is amazing that you have made it without pain this far! Cheer yourself up at a drive-in treat, rather than be sad that you can't afford the steak-house! And keep trusting God, no matter how much time has gone by. Thank Him for all He is teaching you about faith and keeping on, faithfully. And God will bless you. And others will see your faith and be blessed, too. I have seen all of this in the life of those I love.
These things are wonderful to learn, either by having a trial in your own life or by seeing one being worked out in another's life. Hanging on by your toenails is a grand thing to learn. Watch for it!
Jo INMN
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
HAVE I A HITCH IN MY GET-ALONG?
As usual, this is a copy of a 2006 item in our journal for the kids. But, it fits for me today. From
Heb. 12:29, from THE MESSAGE. "God is not an indifferent bystander. God is actively cleaning house, torching all that needs to burn and He won't quit until it's a cleansed. God is Fire!"
God is surely not indifferent in my life; rather, I make God's clean-up job in me difficult, to say the least. I keep hoping this "old nag" can learn to take God's gentle lead, but I keep repeating the same mistakes. I seem to feel burrs under the saddle frequently and I get a bit unpleasant! But, it is encouraging to me to believe that God is not indifferent to my mistakes, even if it means God is unpleased. God doesn't just sit on a fence-rail and watch. God is actively working within me. I, on the other hand, fear that I don't always listen. Am I such a wild one, unteachable, one impossible to break, fearful of being controlled, incorrigible by nature? Will I never be tamed?
"Oh, God! I so want to be gentled and able to race ahead on your command. Don't forsake me, Holy Spirit, even if I try to throw you off. You are my hope in life! Amen."
Imagining myself as an old grey mare isn't as hard today as it was ten or so years ago, yet the mare hasn't changed that much in her wildness. God has to work especially hard with me, I'm afraid. Or maybe it saddens me more and more now when I forget to call on God and find myself back in the pasture for awhile. He is still my hope in Life, and my precious Leader.
I hope He is your Leader, too, and the two of you are having a great ride!
Jo IMN
Heb. 12:29, from THE MESSAGE. "God is not an indifferent bystander. God is actively cleaning house, torching all that needs to burn and He won't quit until it's a cleansed. God is Fire!"
God is surely not indifferent in my life; rather, I make God's clean-up job in me difficult, to say the least. I keep hoping this "old nag" can learn to take God's gentle lead, but I keep repeating the same mistakes. I seem to feel burrs under the saddle frequently and I get a bit unpleasant! But, it is encouraging to me to believe that God is not indifferent to my mistakes, even if it means God is unpleased. God doesn't just sit on a fence-rail and watch. God is actively working within me. I, on the other hand, fear that I don't always listen. Am I such a wild one, unteachable, one impossible to break, fearful of being controlled, incorrigible by nature? Will I never be tamed?
"Oh, God! I so want to be gentled and able to race ahead on your command. Don't forsake me, Holy Spirit, even if I try to throw you off. You are my hope in life! Amen."
Imagining myself as an old grey mare isn't as hard today as it was ten or so years ago, yet the mare hasn't changed that much in her wildness. God has to work especially hard with me, I'm afraid. Or maybe it saddens me more and more now when I forget to call on God and find myself back in the pasture for awhile. He is still my hope in Life, and my precious Leader.
I hope He is your Leader, too, and the two of you are having a great ride!
Jo IMN
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
FAITH...YOURS AND MINE
First 10 yrs. ago and even earlier, 12 yrs. ago, Jerry spoke about his faith. Using Heb. 11:1,6,13,and 16, He chose, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Without faith it is impossible to please God. By faith, God's early followers confessed they were strangers and foreigners on the earth...making clear they sought a homeland...that is, a heavenly home...and God has prepared a city for them."
"Faith is a characteristic that cannot be measured scientifically. It is a firm conviction of what is unseen, has not occurred fully, but believed with certainty that it will occur. Without faith in God we are a truly lost people, open to the persuasions of darkness. God empowers believers with the understanding that our time on earth is temporary and short-lived. He has prepared a heavenly homeland for those who believe and trust in Him where there is no end--eternal life, in God's presence.
"With Christ as my center and beacon, all things are possible, nothing is impossible. Jesus came to earth to give me--and all--belief that we can be forgiven of our sins and be in eternal union with our Creator, Redeemer, Savior--God. This, I believe, and therefore, have faith in Him, and in His promises. Lord Jesus, I praise you that you saved, for me, the gift of faith. Amen."
Jerry. my husband, wrote the above long ago, and he prays that those with whom he comes in contact will see, somehow, the God who lives within. And that is my prayer, too, that those who read this will begin to see and know the wonders of Faith in God!
Jo INMN
"Faith is a characteristic that cannot be measured scientifically. It is a firm conviction of what is unseen, has not occurred fully, but believed with certainty that it will occur. Without faith in God we are a truly lost people, open to the persuasions of darkness. God empowers believers with the understanding that our time on earth is temporary and short-lived. He has prepared a heavenly homeland for those who believe and trust in Him where there is no end--eternal life, in God's presence.
"With Christ as my center and beacon, all things are possible, nothing is impossible. Jesus came to earth to give me--and all--belief that we can be forgiven of our sins and be in eternal union with our Creator, Redeemer, Savior--God. This, I believe, and therefore, have faith in Him, and in His promises. Lord Jesus, I praise you that you saved, for me, the gift of faith. Amen."
Jerry. my husband, wrote the above long ago, and he prays that those with whom he comes in contact will see, somehow, the God who lives within. And that is my prayer, too, that those who read this will begin to see and know the wonders of Faith in God!
Jo INMN
Monday, July 13, 2015
FORGIVENESS
Hebrews 10:29 reads, "But it is much worse to dishonor God's son and to disgrace the blood of the promise that made us holy. And it is just as bad to insult the Holy Spirit who shows us mercy."
"This statement by the writer was made regarding people who make an active decision to sin after they find out about the truth of Jesus Christ, that He is God's Son and was meant to die for the sins of the world. The truth is that God who loves us above all was willing to die to prove His claim upon each person. And His claim is being the Beloved of God who can transport the act of sin from the place of caring that we sin to a place of grief because we chose to sin.
"Of all the things I might have grief about in this world, my own sinfulness grieves me the most. However, God forgives and loves me, unbelievingly, in spite of my imperfections. The statement, "I'm a jerk; you're a jerk?" helps me and today I heard, "I'm not O.K.; you're not O.K., but that's O.K.! I love ya' anyway!" This is the attitude to have. Lord, Help me to have it. AMEN"
There is such a thing, they tell me, as an "inflated ego" that can compel a person to think that they cannot be forgiven as their sins are great and cannot be forgotten or forgiven. Then, there is the person who is not concerned at all at the nature of his or her sins, but simply does not see the hurt in them, until he or she becomes hurt by the sin herself. Either way, God does forgive. One must see how he or she is hurting the self or others by actions coming from forgotten sin. And God holds us accountable until the words are said and meant, "Father, Forgive me, for the hurt I have caused myself, you, and those I have sinned against." When you can, make reparations to the "others." If your sin persists, look for help in giving it up. A forgiven man or woman will always help another to have the same freedom! And God will help you find help!
Happier lives ahead with Forgiveness.
Jo INMN
"This statement by the writer was made regarding people who make an active decision to sin after they find out about the truth of Jesus Christ, that He is God's Son and was meant to die for the sins of the world. The truth is that God who loves us above all was willing to die to prove His claim upon each person. And His claim is being the Beloved of God who can transport the act of sin from the place of caring that we sin to a place of grief because we chose to sin.
"Of all the things I might have grief about in this world, my own sinfulness grieves me the most. However, God forgives and loves me, unbelievingly, in spite of my imperfections. The statement, "I'm a jerk; you're a jerk?" helps me and today I heard, "I'm not O.K.; you're not O.K., but that's O.K.! I love ya' anyway!" This is the attitude to have. Lord, Help me to have it. AMEN"
There is such a thing, they tell me, as an "inflated ego" that can compel a person to think that they cannot be forgiven as their sins are great and cannot be forgotten or forgiven. Then, there is the person who is not concerned at all at the nature of his or her sins, but simply does not see the hurt in them, until he or she becomes hurt by the sin herself. Either way, God does forgive. One must see how he or she is hurting the self or others by actions coming from forgotten sin. And God holds us accountable until the words are said and meant, "Father, Forgive me, for the hurt I have caused myself, you, and those I have sinned against." When you can, make reparations to the "others." If your sin persists, look for help in giving it up. A forgiven man or woman will always help another to have the same freedom! And God will help you find help!
Happier lives ahead with Forgiveness.
Jo INMN
Friday, July 10, 2015
GOD'S NO-LIMIT WHOLENESS!
I wrote this journal-entry July 11, 2006, and it still applies today. From Isaiah 9:6, "His names will be Amazing Counselor, Strong God, Eternal Father, Prince of Wholeness. His ruling authority will grow, and there will be no limits to the wholeness He brings." (The Message)
"Counseling, strength, like a father, and bringing wholeness--what a list on God's resume! Plus, God brought more to us by His son, Jesus Christ. There are no limits to the wholeness and peace Christ brings. Think what "no limits" means. It means each of us individually, all people, without any discrimination, will receive wholeness. All people--nations, states, and individuals--are capable of incredible relationships with one another with absolutely no limits to the wholeness between them that Christ can--and would--bring.
" So why do we hesitate to use or remain ignorant of this blessed gift? Too busy being self-absorbed? Too busy with our own agendas? Not trusting God in other people? Here is our God, waiting to give us His Spirit, waiting to see that we are attuned to Him more and more, waiting to bless us as His very own. Here He is, and all we have to do is turn to Him and know He is there, waiting. And we can then say, "I'm sorry, Lord, that it took me so long to come to you. I was afraid. But I want to belong to You. I want to be Yours forever. Will you make me whole? Will you make me as you want me to be? Help me to believe, to be patient, and to KNOW You, as you know me. AMEN"
And then, God, Prince of Wholeness, will reveal Himself to all who ask with His promise of wholeness. So much depends on all people knowing and responding, "Yes!" The world is waiting. Let us be a part of bringing this to others, and not worry about "self." Amen.
Until the whole world knows!
Jo INMN
"Counseling, strength, like a father, and bringing wholeness--what a list on God's resume! Plus, God brought more to us by His son, Jesus Christ. There are no limits to the wholeness and peace Christ brings. Think what "no limits" means. It means each of us individually, all people, without any discrimination, will receive wholeness. All people--nations, states, and individuals--are capable of incredible relationships with one another with absolutely no limits to the wholeness between them that Christ can--and would--bring.
" So why do we hesitate to use or remain ignorant of this blessed gift? Too busy being self-absorbed? Too busy with our own agendas? Not trusting God in other people? Here is our God, waiting to give us His Spirit, waiting to see that we are attuned to Him more and more, waiting to bless us as His very own. Here He is, and all we have to do is turn to Him and know He is there, waiting. And we can then say, "I'm sorry, Lord, that it took me so long to come to you. I was afraid. But I want to belong to You. I want to be Yours forever. Will you make me whole? Will you make me as you want me to be? Help me to believe, to be patient, and to KNOW You, as you know me. AMEN"
And then, God, Prince of Wholeness, will reveal Himself to all who ask with His promise of wholeness. So much depends on all people knowing and responding, "Yes!" The world is waiting. Let us be a part of bringing this to others, and not worry about "self." Amen.
Until the whole world knows!
Jo INMN
WHO WILL SPEAK FOR THESE?
This will be a tricky one to use today, written over 10years ago, and in 10years much has changed regarding the family. So, I will, in my prayer, use today's people and hopes instead of those of t0 yrs. ago. Now, the scripture from Heb. 7:25, where Jesus is being described: "He is forever able to save the people he leads to God because he lives to speak to God for them."
"Jesus forever lives; He never dies. When we came to God through Jesus, we found Jesus is always alive to God and speaks to God for all people including us. What an incredible gift to receive! We are the objects of love about whom Jesus speaks--to God, the Father! His speaking involves prayers of supplication for us--for you and me! What a great love! I wonder, God, will I be at your feet someday praying , supplicating for those I love who remain on this earth? I hope so. Starting now, I will practice being at your feet and I will speak to you my supplications for those I love, and those I newly meet.
"Lord, I pray for our granddaughter, T. and her husband who want to have a child, but are unable. Bless them in their marriage in other ways, that they may not feel loss, but recognize their right to live a life of love and joy in you. I pray for the marriage of D., that he and his wife and child will find peace in you and courage to become filled with health. I pray for all of the other grand-children and spouses-to-be, that they, too, may know you by name and by sight, leaving all pretenses aside. I pray for my children and their spouses, or their aloneness, that they may continue to seek you and follow you all of their days. I pray for neighbors, friends, those in our school systems, our local, state, and national governments, and, Lord, I pray for the differences between all of us in the U.S. and the world, that we might find loving your neighbors to be the answer to a lot of the world's problems. Give us wisdom, Lord, to understand; give us love for those who don't love us; give us peace when some are urging war; give the world yourself that we may look for no other! Amen."
I have asked for the ultimate. I am not ashamed of asking, for our Lord will give us what He will when He wills it.
Jo INMN
"Jesus forever lives; He never dies. When we came to God through Jesus, we found Jesus is always alive to God and speaks to God for all people including us. What an incredible gift to receive! We are the objects of love about whom Jesus speaks--to God, the Father! His speaking involves prayers of supplication for us--for you and me! What a great love! I wonder, God, will I be at your feet someday praying , supplicating for those I love who remain on this earth? I hope so. Starting now, I will practice being at your feet and I will speak to you my supplications for those I love, and those I newly meet.
"Lord, I pray for our granddaughter, T. and her husband who want to have a child, but are unable. Bless them in their marriage in other ways, that they may not feel loss, but recognize their right to live a life of love and joy in you. I pray for the marriage of D., that he and his wife and child will find peace in you and courage to become filled with health. I pray for all of the other grand-children and spouses-to-be, that they, too, may know you by name and by sight, leaving all pretenses aside. I pray for my children and their spouses, or their aloneness, that they may continue to seek you and follow you all of their days. I pray for neighbors, friends, those in our school systems, our local, state, and national governments, and, Lord, I pray for the differences between all of us in the U.S. and the world, that we might find loving your neighbors to be the answer to a lot of the world's problems. Give us wisdom, Lord, to understand; give us love for those who don't love us; give us peace when some are urging war; give the world yourself that we may look for no other! Amen."
I have asked for the ultimate. I am not ashamed of asking, for our Lord will give us what He will when He wills it.
Jo INMN
Thursday, July 9, 2015
GOD IS NOT UNJUST
Micah 4:5b and 7b, and Hebrews 6:10 read: "We will walk in the name of the Lord our God forever and ever...and the Lord will reign in Mt. Zion now and forevermore...For God is not unjust; He will not overlook your work and the love you showed for His name (sake) in serving the saints, as you still do."
Jerry wrote, "Earlier in Hebrews Six it tells the reader that there is the danger of being cut off from God if we've been enlightened by the Holy Spirit and then fall away, like the people of Israel did again and again. But the writer also says in 6:10, "God is not unjust and sees the good work and love that is done in His name and counts it as "good." When we repent, as we must do, God says many times in the scripture, nothing can separate us from the love of God, except our own will. We can choose to turn our backs on God and reject Him, crucifying Jesus over and over.
"God knows the hearts of the people, and knows what we are up to. Sometimes He must call me again and again when I turn my back on Him. He waits for me to invite Him to reign in me like He did at Mt. Zion, and must be disappointed when I let Him wait. God never gives up; but I sometimes do, as did the Israelites. Lord, Keep my eyes, ears, heart and soul focused on you, always. Amen."
So goes the human race. Sadly stupid, at times. But, intelligent enough to see when we are going the wrong direction. We can be severely selfish, but still anxious to help others who are needy. We are proud and like to succeed, and yet we have often failed because of our pride. We want to be loved, and yet deny the most wonderful God who loves us all without fail.
God, Help us to open our eyes to see You and to insist on a life described in the words of Micah and Hebrews.
Jo INMN
Jerry wrote, "Earlier in Hebrews Six it tells the reader that there is the danger of being cut off from God if we've been enlightened by the Holy Spirit and then fall away, like the people of Israel did again and again. But the writer also says in 6:10, "God is not unjust and sees the good work and love that is done in His name and counts it as "good." When we repent, as we must do, God says many times in the scripture, nothing can separate us from the love of God, except our own will. We can choose to turn our backs on God and reject Him, crucifying Jesus over and over.
"God knows the hearts of the people, and knows what we are up to. Sometimes He must call me again and again when I turn my back on Him. He waits for me to invite Him to reign in me like He did at Mt. Zion, and must be disappointed when I let Him wait. God never gives up; but I sometimes do, as did the Israelites. Lord, Keep my eyes, ears, heart and soul focused on you, always. Amen."
So goes the human race. Sadly stupid, at times. But, intelligent enough to see when we are going the wrong direction. We can be severely selfish, but still anxious to help others who are needy. We are proud and like to succeed, and yet we have often failed because of our pride. We want to be loved, and yet deny the most wonderful God who loves us all without fail.
God, Help us to open our eyes to see You and to insist on a life described in the words of Micah and Hebrews.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
THE ONLY WAY...FAITH IN HIM!
From Hebrews 4:3, "The promises (of resting in God) didn't do them (the Israelites) a bit of good, because they didn't receive the promises with faith." The writer of Hebrews gives an explanation of why the Israelites struggled so much with choosing God over pagan idols. They never developed their faith to the place where they were able to receive God and God's promises. They never found how to rest in Him.
"What does resting in God mean. Does it literally mean to rest, to sit down, get off your feet, rest your body? Am I resting if I watch TV? or Reading? Whether I'm sitting or standing, walking or whatever, I can rest in God. But it takes my will to choose to turn from what I am reading or watching or thinking and rest in Him. I picture the Holy One as light that is whiter than the sun. I think of Jesus, smiling, standing by me. He has watched and read that which I have watched and read. He is with me as I rest no matter if I am doing something or if I am in prayer. He is always there, in me and with me. I am secure, connected to the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Jesus in me.
But the will is willful, and doesn't always find its way to God, although God is always there. God may sneak into my thoughts while I am watching TV or reading and I know He is there. It is up to me to recognize Him, to listen to His returning thoughts, to thank Him for His interest. Sometimes, God sneaks into my dreams and may give me an answer to a problem. Always, He waits to connect with us, waiting for each of us, trying to give us rest in Him.
God shows us as He tried to show the Israelites. It takes faith in God to find Him in our rest. Thank you, God, for teaching us that faith in You is the only way to go.
Jo INMN
"What does resting in God mean. Does it literally mean to rest, to sit down, get off your feet, rest your body? Am I resting if I watch TV? or Reading? Whether I'm sitting or standing, walking or whatever, I can rest in God. But it takes my will to choose to turn from what I am reading or watching or thinking and rest in Him. I picture the Holy One as light that is whiter than the sun. I think of Jesus, smiling, standing by me. He has watched and read that which I have watched and read. He is with me as I rest no matter if I am doing something or if I am in prayer. He is always there, in me and with me. I am secure, connected to the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Jesus in me.
But the will is willful, and doesn't always find its way to God, although God is always there. God may sneak into my thoughts while I am watching TV or reading and I know He is there. It is up to me to recognize Him, to listen to His returning thoughts, to thank Him for His interest. Sometimes, God sneaks into my dreams and may give me an answer to a problem. Always, He waits to connect with us, waiting for each of us, trying to give us rest in Him.
God shows us as He tried to show the Israelites. It takes faith in God to find Him in our rest. Thank you, God, for teaching us that faith in You is the only way to go.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
BEING TESTED
Jerry , 10 yrs. ago, wrote on being Tested from the scripture reading Heb. 4:14,15. "Since then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the son of God. Let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested, as we are, yet without sin."
"This passage affirms to us that when we are tested by ridicule, pain, adversity, illness etc., we know that our Savior Jesus had felt those same pangs of pain that we feel. Jesus was very human, yet very God, so He endured without sin. Jesus never yielded to testing by taking the easy road. He endured testing to show us how we, too, can endure when we're under fire. What a great blessing it is to know that nothing I experience was not also experienced and endured by Jesus. With His hand in mine, nothing is able to be victorious over me. Lord Jesus, I praise you for demonstrating endurance and testing victoriously. Help me to remember You when I must endure the same. Amen."
Today, it has been verified that I, Jo, must also endure another unwanted experience. As I am in my 80's now, there have been many experiences I would not have chosen. But, God has always been there, and I am trusting that He will be with me during this surgery on my left shoulder. It has been promised that my shoulder will be like new! I hope that is true. This surgery is relatively new, and it is patterned like hip and knee replacements. What has been done so far has been good, so I am hoping. And I am also trusting that my Lord knows what is going on and will be right by my side.
I value your prayers, as well as your friendship. We are His forever, and that means you and I are friends forever. Until then,
Your friend, Jo INMN
"This passage affirms to us that when we are tested by ridicule, pain, adversity, illness etc., we know that our Savior Jesus had felt those same pangs of pain that we feel. Jesus was very human, yet very God, so He endured without sin. Jesus never yielded to testing by taking the easy road. He endured testing to show us how we, too, can endure when we're under fire. What a great blessing it is to know that nothing I experience was not also experienced and endured by Jesus. With His hand in mine, nothing is able to be victorious over me. Lord Jesus, I praise you for demonstrating endurance and testing victoriously. Help me to remember You when I must endure the same. Amen."
Today, it has been verified that I, Jo, must also endure another unwanted experience. As I am in my 80's now, there have been many experiences I would not have chosen. But, God has always been there, and I am trusting that He will be with me during this surgery on my left shoulder. It has been promised that my shoulder will be like new! I hope that is true. This surgery is relatively new, and it is patterned like hip and knee replacements. What has been done so far has been good, so I am hoping. And I am also trusting that my Lord knows what is going on and will be right by my side.
I value your prayers, as well as your friendship. We are His forever, and that means you and I are friends forever. Until then,
Your friend, Jo INMN
Monday, July 6, 2015
THE MASTER'S TOUCH
Back on July 5, 2006, I wrote an entry for our journal and it fits with today's happenings. We lived in Arizona at the time this was written and Arizona rarely gets rain. But, once and awhile it does rain and freshens up the summer, which is hot, really hot down there. So, sit back and imagine, really hot weather. But first, hear a word from Hosea 6:2b and 3. "We're ready to study God, eager for God-knowledge. As sure as dawn breaks, so sure is God's daily arrival. God comes as rain comes, as spring rain, refreshing the ground." Israel, on that day, finally returns to their loving God, and the people exhort their readiness to be His!
"Yesterday it rained in Mesa. Most of the morning it rained, first just a sprinkle, then solid rain. Everything became fresh and sweet. Newly potted flowers perked up their heads and even the tormenting sun that followed the rain didn't bow them down again.
"I felt the same. It was new life. I love the rain, even thunder and lightening. There is power in rain and its accompaniments. And there is power, too in studying God. Not just studying about God, but studying God. I hunger to know God in person and the Son He gave up for us. I am eager to know more and more. I see God in the lives of others...."Hello! I'm Jesus with skin on!" Still I am eager to see Jesus-God face to face. Perhaps even in eternity we will not see God's face but I believe God's light will be seen as well as felt, everywhere at that time.--that auspicious time. I am eager for God's touch, finger-tip to finger-tip, if nothing else. O God, my God, when I die may I be in You. Amen."
That was then, and now? I feel just the same. Awaiting the results of an MRI for a troublesome shoulder, I walked Max just before the rain started here in MN. Soon, I will make some lunch. And while looking out the window, chewing a sandwich, I will watch the birds at the feeder. They are now a bit frazzled and pecky from the rain, but gobbling up that which has been prepared for them. And that is still a favorite thing for me to do...gobbling up that which has been prepared over the centuries for me and others like me, hungering for that which has been readied for us, the Word of God.
I hope you, too, are reading what has been prepared and sopping it up like the flowers do the rain and the birds do the food in the feeder. He is equipping us for the days ahead. Thanks be to God.
Jo INMN
"Yesterday it rained in Mesa. Most of the morning it rained, first just a sprinkle, then solid rain. Everything became fresh and sweet. Newly potted flowers perked up their heads and even the tormenting sun that followed the rain didn't bow them down again.
"I felt the same. It was new life. I love the rain, even thunder and lightening. There is power in rain and its accompaniments. And there is power, too in studying God. Not just studying about God, but studying God. I hunger to know God in person and the Son He gave up for us. I am eager to know more and more. I see God in the lives of others...."Hello! I'm Jesus with skin on!" Still I am eager to see Jesus-God face to face. Perhaps even in eternity we will not see God's face but I believe God's light will be seen as well as felt, everywhere at that time.--that auspicious time. I am eager for God's touch, finger-tip to finger-tip, if nothing else. O God, my God, when I die may I be in You. Amen."
That was then, and now? I feel just the same. Awaiting the results of an MRI for a troublesome shoulder, I walked Max just before the rain started here in MN. Soon, I will make some lunch. And while looking out the window, chewing a sandwich, I will watch the birds at the feeder. They are now a bit frazzled and pecky from the rain, but gobbling up that which has been prepared for them. And that is still a favorite thing for me to do...gobbling up that which has been prepared over the centuries for me and others like me, hungering for that which has been readied for us, the Word of God.
I hope you, too, are reading what has been prepared and sopping it up like the flowers do the rain and the birds do the food in the feeder. He is equipping us for the days ahead. Thanks be to God.
Jo INMN
Saturday, July 4, 2015
JULY FOURTH, 2015
For those of you who will take a quick peak at the 4th of July's blog, please accept my joyous salute to you and the rest of our wonderful, but imperfect, country. The United States has a lot of things that could stand perfecting, but you do have to give us a salute for trying! I am proud to be an American, and also proud to be an American Christian. I hope you join me in my salute, and in some way, show your pride of country. Thanks be to God for freedom: from threats, from bullies, from hopelessness, and from lack of love. Thanks to our forefathers who gave us laws and protection from lawlessness. Lord, help us to be faithful to these laws and thankful, always, for the protections they bring. Bring us another year and many more of security, and thanksgiving. And thanks, too, for the Lord who provides for us within this great country.Amen
Friday, July 3, 2015
AN ADDENDUM TO YESTERDAY'S BLOG
After re-reading yesterday's blog, already published, I realized I had forgotten the most important information about Sunday's sermon which suggested the need to pray for our enemies. This info is a direction from the Lord Himself. God Almighty is the core of today's Hebrew's thinking, and beliefs. I can't completely quote it to you, as I don't know the exact place it is found in our bible. It is called the Shamah (spelling?) and it is said twice daily by all Jews. Our pastor agrees that it should be said by our congregation in the same way; it should be the core teaching for all of us, everyday. It goes like this, "Love the lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your might. Keep this in your heart and all things will go well by you." Jesus, remember, was a Jew, and said this Shamah every day of His life. But, Jesus didn't stop there! His teaching was even more radical! He taught His disciples the 10 commandments and added two to the list. First, He added the Shamah: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind,' and for the second part, 'And love your neighbor as yourself.' Then, began the puzzle, 'Who is your neighbor?'
Here is the great discussion. Who is our neighbor? Jesus' answer was to love without exception; to even love your enemies. Our neighbor is not just the one in need! Christ says to love our enemies! And He also says to Be perfect, even as our Heavenly Father is perfect!
Therefore, we add to our list of praying for salvation...our enemies. Lord, we don't completely understand, but we pray for our enemies who right on this particular day are the ISIS people. We pray for better understanding on our part of why they hate, and we pray that you will enter their lives in a substantial way that they will know you are not the enemy. We pray for their loved ones whom they have lost. We pray for forgiveness of our own hate for them and also for them, for the callous way they have treated the innocent. We pray that you will know how difficult this is to show love to those who show such hatred, and ask that you continue to teach us how to live in love, even with those who hurt us. Thank you for your incomparable love for all of us. In your most Holy Name, Amen.
There you have it! God's love supercedes hatred.
Jo NMN
Here is the great discussion. Who is our neighbor? Jesus' answer was to love without exception; to even love your enemies. Our neighbor is not just the one in need! Christ says to love our enemies! And He also says to Be perfect, even as our Heavenly Father is perfect!
Therefore, we add to our list of praying for salvation...our enemies. Lord, we don't completely understand, but we pray for our enemies who right on this particular day are the ISIS people. We pray for better understanding on our part of why they hate, and we pray that you will enter their lives in a substantial way that they will know you are not the enemy. We pray for their loved ones whom they have lost. We pray for forgiveness of our own hate for them and also for them, for the callous way they have treated the innocent. We pray that you will know how difficult this is to show love to those who show such hatred, and ask that you continue to teach us how to live in love, even with those who hurt us. Thank you for your incomparable love for all of us. In your most Holy Name, Amen.
There you have it! God's love supercedes hatred.
Jo NMN
Thursday, July 2, 2015
LET MERCY FALL LIKE RAIN
The following journal entry was first written in 2005, by me. It comes from Jude 23:23 and says,"'Be helpful to all who may have doubts (about God.) Rescue anyone who needs to be saved as you would rescue someone from a fire. Then, with fear in your own heart, have mercy on everyone who needs it."
"In this letter to Jude, the writer is speaking to those who are established Christians. His direction helps me to look outward from my own discipleship to those who bounce into my life, either for a moment, or for a lengthy time. He's suggesting to me to not be concerned about how my life, my work, my needs are affecting others, but to be ever watchful and aware of the needs of those around me. Those lives and how I react to them are what is crucial to God. God is in charge of their reactions and any outcome there may be.
"And even if I become filled with fear of being rejected or of failing in my efforts, I must have mercy toward those I encounter and for myself. That is the loving way.
"God, help me to be filled with the desire for other-ness, to be able to set aside any weight of my own, and instead, measure the weight on the shoulders of another in order to have---and to show---mercy. God, help us all--your people here--to be others-minded no matter the cost. May our real work be to have mercy. Thank you, God. Amen."
I needed to see this again, as my heart, once more, needed filling. Mercy is so very important, and especially in this day. I heard from the pulpit this past Sunday that we must have love and mercy for everyone. Now, that is hard these days with the threat of ISIS around the globe. However, I do pray for ISIS and all others who hate the Christian world. In fact, they hate all other worlds except their own. So many innocent have been murdered; and so many are hearing their message and because of being forgotten themselves, have turned to ISIS and their murdering of others. So, pray about this, and if you find your heart ready, pray that those who hate will witness our love, and find themselves questioning the practices of hate, and begin to love. If we all pray for this, at least it will be known to the world that love is the better way. God will be pleased. This I believe!
Until the whole world knows Him!
Jo INMN
"In this letter to Jude, the writer is speaking to those who are established Christians. His direction helps me to look outward from my own discipleship to those who bounce into my life, either for a moment, or for a lengthy time. He's suggesting to me to not be concerned about how my life, my work, my needs are affecting others, but to be ever watchful and aware of the needs of those around me. Those lives and how I react to them are what is crucial to God. God is in charge of their reactions and any outcome there may be.
"And even if I become filled with fear of being rejected or of failing in my efforts, I must have mercy toward those I encounter and for myself. That is the loving way.
"God, help me to be filled with the desire for other-ness, to be able to set aside any weight of my own, and instead, measure the weight on the shoulders of another in order to have---and to show---mercy. God, help us all--your people here--to be others-minded no matter the cost. May our real work be to have mercy. Thank you, God. Amen."
I needed to see this again, as my heart, once more, needed filling. Mercy is so very important, and especially in this day. I heard from the pulpit this past Sunday that we must have love and mercy for everyone. Now, that is hard these days with the threat of ISIS around the globe. However, I do pray for ISIS and all others who hate the Christian world. In fact, they hate all other worlds except their own. So many innocent have been murdered; and so many are hearing their message and because of being forgotten themselves, have turned to ISIS and their murdering of others. So, pray about this, and if you find your heart ready, pray that those who hate will witness our love, and find themselves questioning the practices of hate, and begin to love. If we all pray for this, at least it will be known to the world that love is the better way. God will be pleased. This I believe!
Until the whole world knows Him!
Jo INMN
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
THE WATER OF REBIRTH
On July 1, 2006 we choose this item for our journal, written by Jerry from Titus 3:3,4,5. " Paul, in verse 3, tells Titus of the kind of person he was before his encounter with the risen Lord. Paul said, 'I was foolish, disobedient, and led by passions and pleasures.' In verse 4, 'But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us not because of any works or righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.'
"These words of Paul demonstrate that no sinner is beyond salvation by the water of rebirth. Sin is washed away from the past and we are reborn into a new life. All this is only by the grace and mercy of God when we come to God on our knees and repent. There is nothing that we can do to earn it through brownie points or good works.
"Jesus came to set me free from the burdens of past sin and to make me a new creation. He washes away greed, envy, jealousy, discrimination, hatred, anger, etc. In Christ, I became a totally new person...unbelievable, but true. Lord Jesus, I praise you for the water of rebirth that gave me freedom and new life in you. Amen."
Even with childhood baptism we are forgiven. For what, you might ask? I believe we are forgiven at baptism for the sins of the world that invade us as children and hang on right through adulthood. Children lie. I did. "No, I didn't glue my sister's curls to her head!" Saying this to my mother with the glue stick in my little fist. "No, I didn't bite my brother." But the teeth marks were on his back. My parents worked hard to get me to be truthful, and when I was older, I was truly sorry for hurting my brother and being naughty with my sister's hair. It was already in me to be sorry. But it was not in me to care enough to not hurt or be mischievous in the first place. The truth of showing love to others had to be learned and how to be loving came from others showing love to me. Jealousy lived in me. Anger lived in me. And it had to be invited "out." But children learn kindness and love by those around them. And they learn that Jesus loves them through it all.
Thank you, Lord, for the forgiving spirit you taught my parents, and later on, to me and my family. Praise you, Jesus, for being the Lord of our Lives.
And yours, too, I pray!
Jo INMN
"These words of Paul demonstrate that no sinner is beyond salvation by the water of rebirth. Sin is washed away from the past and we are reborn into a new life. All this is only by the grace and mercy of God when we come to God on our knees and repent. There is nothing that we can do to earn it through brownie points or good works.
"Jesus came to set me free from the burdens of past sin and to make me a new creation. He washes away greed, envy, jealousy, discrimination, hatred, anger, etc. In Christ, I became a totally new person...unbelievable, but true. Lord Jesus, I praise you for the water of rebirth that gave me freedom and new life in you. Amen."
Even with childhood baptism we are forgiven. For what, you might ask? I believe we are forgiven at baptism for the sins of the world that invade us as children and hang on right through adulthood. Children lie. I did. "No, I didn't glue my sister's curls to her head!" Saying this to my mother with the glue stick in my little fist. "No, I didn't bite my brother." But the teeth marks were on his back. My parents worked hard to get me to be truthful, and when I was older, I was truly sorry for hurting my brother and being naughty with my sister's hair. It was already in me to be sorry. But it was not in me to care enough to not hurt or be mischievous in the first place. The truth of showing love to others had to be learned and how to be loving came from others showing love to me. Jealousy lived in me. Anger lived in me. And it had to be invited "out." But children learn kindness and love by those around them. And they learn that Jesus loves them through it all.
Thank you, Lord, for the forgiving spirit you taught my parents, and later on, to me and my family. Praise you, Jesus, for being the Lord of our Lives.
And yours, too, I pray!
Jo INMN
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