In Romans 4:15 it tells us, "Abraham decided to live not on the basis of what he saw he couldn't
do, but on what God said God would do."
"Simple, huh? Paul, in Romans, sends us a good reminder of what often goes wrong in a Christian's life. Too often we don't trust God because we know our shortcomings. Abraham knew he and Sarah were too old to have a child, but God had said they would have a child, and He would see to it. So Abraham had faith. He chose to believe God would do it, rather than what his common sense was telling him. God promised; God delivered. Abraham and Sarah had one son, Isaac.
"So simple. Just trust in what God promises. If God wants something I believe God will make it happen. So there is no need to obsess or even grieve because something didn't happen or hasn't yet worked out. God will do what God promises. God has promised to love me and be with me always. He has promised me a place in His Heaven. What more could I want? (What about you? He has promised you, too, I believe!)
"So, God, I thank you for the privilege of believing in the Christ, my Savior and your Son. And I shall praise you always. Amen."
Many frightening things and dark thoughts can come upon us in this day and age. But it is God's world of love and light that we must remember, and His Word is for us and about us and Him, and will carry us through any darkness. We are apt to forget! But let us remember always, "If God said it, He WILL do it!
Jo INMN
Monday, November 30, 2015
Saturday, November 28, 2015
EXTRAVAGANT SERVICE TO JESUS
Matthew 26:6-13 tells us "while Jesus was in the house of Simon, who had been a leper, as he sat at table a woman came in to him and poured an alabaster jar of very costly ointment on Jesus' head. The disciples felt she should have sold the jar for money to give to the poor. But Jesus reprimanded His disciples and proclaimed, "Why do you trouble this woman that has performed a good service for me?..Truly, I tell you, what she has done for me will be proclaimed all over the world where the Good News is preached, in remembrance of her." ("This woman's act of sacrificial love won higher praise from Jesus than any other in the New Testament." From the Bible's footnotes)
"This woman gave to Jesus something that cost her a great deal and gave it without a moment's hesitation. Whether she knew beforehand that Jesus would be beaten and crucified is not revealed. What is revealed is that this act drew more praise from Jesus than any other recorded."
This is the kind of extravagant witness that Jesus seeks from us. Never mind the money value, but think of the witness. The "cost" of this ointment from the woman in the scripture, must have been costly to her in many ways, but primarily its rarity. She did not give a moment's hesitation. We must never give Jesus anything but the very best of ourselves, our resources, our time, and our talents.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to be extravagant in your service to respond to your extravagant love for us. Amen.
Jo INMN
"This woman gave to Jesus something that cost her a great deal and gave it without a moment's hesitation. Whether she knew beforehand that Jesus would be beaten and crucified is not revealed. What is revealed is that this act drew more praise from Jesus than any other recorded."
This is the kind of extravagant witness that Jesus seeks from us. Never mind the money value, but think of the witness. The "cost" of this ointment from the woman in the scripture, must have been costly to her in many ways, but primarily its rarity. She did not give a moment's hesitation. We must never give Jesus anything but the very best of ourselves, our resources, our time, and our talents.
Lord Jesus, give us hearts to be extravagant in your service to respond to your extravagant love for us. Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, November 27, 2015
MY JOB; THY JOB
Matthew 24:46, "Servants are fortunate if their master comes and finds them doing their job."
"I am a servant; Jesus, my master. When Jesus returns, I want to be doing my job. Now the thing is, what is my job?
"Matthew 25:35,36 says about that, "When I was hungry, you fed me. Thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me; naked, you clothed me. When I was sick, you cared for me. When I was in jail, you visited me." Jesus' own words tell me what my job is. When I care for those around me, I am caring for Jesus himself. God brings people into our lives that we might care for them, and thus, care for Jesus.
"But I don't always run into the hungry, the thirsty, or strangers. I don't always know who needs clothing, who is sick, or who is in jail. I must trust God to bring this information to me and pray that I will be obedient. There are good people out there who have arranged for people to learn what one can do to help the poor, the sick, and those incarcerated. It is up to me to find them first to begin my usefulness.
"Dear God, I ask that you continue to teach me to be a better servant, that I will not disappoint you regarding my "job." And I will be more and more watchful for those who have needs. Amen."
And here we are, the day after Thanksgiving! Now in our eighties, Jerry and I were rounded yesterday by most of our children and their children. It was a festive, thankful day, a day of rest and indulgence! Now, to begin my work once again for Christ. And I happily say, all those present yesterday will be available to begin work for Him, as well! God's Blessings To All!
Jo INMN
"I am a servant; Jesus, my master. When Jesus returns, I want to be doing my job. Now the thing is, what is my job?
"Matthew 25:35,36 says about that, "When I was hungry, you fed me. Thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me; naked, you clothed me. When I was sick, you cared for me. When I was in jail, you visited me." Jesus' own words tell me what my job is. When I care for those around me, I am caring for Jesus himself. God brings people into our lives that we might care for them, and thus, care for Jesus.
"But I don't always run into the hungry, the thirsty, or strangers. I don't always know who needs clothing, who is sick, or who is in jail. I must trust God to bring this information to me and pray that I will be obedient. There are good people out there who have arranged for people to learn what one can do to help the poor, the sick, and those incarcerated. It is up to me to find them first to begin my usefulness.
"Dear God, I ask that you continue to teach me to be a better servant, that I will not disappoint you regarding my "job." And I will be more and more watchful for those who have needs. Amen."
And here we are, the day after Thanksgiving! Now in our eighties, Jerry and I were rounded yesterday by most of our children and their children. It was a festive, thankful day, a day of rest and indulgence! Now, to begin my work once again for Christ. And I happily say, all those present yesterday will be available to begin work for Him, as well! God's Blessings To All!
Jo INMN
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
IT'S A DONE DEAL!
Matthew 17:2 says this, "There in front of the disciples, Jesus was completely changed. His face was shining like the sun, and his clothes became white as light."
On a certain mountain, at a certain hour, Jesus was changed from his earthly pallor to having a heavenly glow. Peter, James, and John witnessed this and were amazed. Their lives were changed because of hearing God the Father correspond with His Son.
I can understand what the disciples went through in a very small way. One night, doing homework for Bible Study Fellowship in the book of John, I read that Jesus died for forgiveness of our sin and carried our guilt and sin onto the cross in perfect sacrifice. My sins! Mine!
Being forgiven meant a lot to me, as did His death for all my sins. But carrying my guilt? That blew me away! I wept in pure thanksgiving. I had carried excess guilt for a lot of things and had a hard time forgiving myself. And now I learned that Jesus had taken care of that guilt, along with my sin! My tears continued to flow over and over, thank you, Lord Jesus! Thank you."
To this day, I am still grateful and again cry out to the Lord with the purest joy! But, the Lord gently reminds me, "It's over. It's already done. Be at peace."
And once again, He shines like the sun!
JO inMN
On a certain mountain, at a certain hour, Jesus was changed from his earthly pallor to having a heavenly glow. Peter, James, and John witnessed this and were amazed. Their lives were changed because of hearing God the Father correspond with His Son.
I can understand what the disciples went through in a very small way. One night, doing homework for Bible Study Fellowship in the book of John, I read that Jesus died for forgiveness of our sin and carried our guilt and sin onto the cross in perfect sacrifice. My sins! Mine!
Being forgiven meant a lot to me, as did His death for all my sins. But carrying my guilt? That blew me away! I wept in pure thanksgiving. I had carried excess guilt for a lot of things and had a hard time forgiving myself. And now I learned that Jesus had taken care of that guilt, along with my sin! My tears continued to flow over and over, thank you, Lord Jesus! Thank you."
To this day, I am still grateful and again cry out to the Lord with the purest joy! But, the Lord gently reminds me, "It's over. It's already done. Be at peace."
And once again, He shines like the sun!
JO inMN
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
THE COMPASSION OF CHRIST
In Matthew 115:32 it says, "Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, "I have compassion for the crowd; because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat, and I do not want to send them away hungry for they may faint on the way.""
"In many areas of Jesus' ministry he identifies human, earthly needs: heal the sick, raise the dead, feed the hungry. Jesus told his disciples then and us now that we are to emulate him, our Master Savior, and Lord. Jesus wanted spiritual conversion of their hearts, of course, but he recognized human needs had to first be met before people would listen.
"Jesus' guide to me is very clear. Help people with their needs firsts. Become a friend they will listen to, and then share the good news of the gospel. As a disciple of Jesus, I can do no less than what He did while here on earth. He came to save the last, the lost, and the downtrodden, but first He met their human needs. He says to me, "Jerry, go and do likewise." (Then, Jerry prayed.) "Lord Jesus, give me listening ears and open eyes to see where need exists, that I might meet that need and lead others to faith in you. Amen."
Years ago, I was on a retreat where I was to give a short message on this very topic. Its basic message was this, "Find a friend. Be a friend. Bring that friend to Christ." Simply said, but all truth. I hope you and I can re-promise to share what we have this Thanksgiving, both of worldly goods and our faith. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I hope you have someone to share it with!!
Jo INMN
"In many areas of Jesus' ministry he identifies human, earthly needs: heal the sick, raise the dead, feed the hungry. Jesus told his disciples then and us now that we are to emulate him, our Master Savior, and Lord. Jesus wanted spiritual conversion of their hearts, of course, but he recognized human needs had to first be met before people would listen.
"Jesus' guide to me is very clear. Help people with their needs firsts. Become a friend they will listen to, and then share the good news of the gospel. As a disciple of Jesus, I can do no less than what He did while here on earth. He came to save the last, the lost, and the downtrodden, but first He met their human needs. He says to me, "Jerry, go and do likewise." (Then, Jerry prayed.) "Lord Jesus, give me listening ears and open eyes to see where need exists, that I might meet that need and lead others to faith in you. Amen."
Years ago, I was on a retreat where I was to give a short message on this very topic. Its basic message was this, "Find a friend. Be a friend. Bring that friend to Christ." Simply said, but all truth. I hope you and I can re-promise to share what we have this Thanksgiving, both of worldly goods and our faith. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I hope you have someone to share it with!!
Jo INMN
Monday, November 23, 2015
YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW
Galatians 6:7,8 reads "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh, but if you sow to the Spirit you will reap eternal life from the Spirit." It seems to me, this application seems so obvious it shouldn't need to be explained. If you plant corn, there's no chance you will be able to harvest wheat. If you learn French, you should not expect to suddenly speak Spanish. The thing speaks for itself. If we seek to follow God, it stands to reason we must make the effort and motions to plant His spirit in our hearts.
"When I move away from God's will for my life, I can be certain that good things, Godly things will never result. God, the Creator of all things will not be mocked. I alone must decide; do I submit my will to God's will? My eternal destiny and my usefulness to God on this earth hang in the balance.
(And my husband prayed:) "Lord God, give me a heart that seeks to sow seeds of the Spirit in my life. Amen."
When re-reading this old message, I thought of a word God had given me sometime ago regarding my need to be a "better person", worried about my own imperfections. These are His words to me...
"God isn't measuring your worth. He is only interested in revealing His worth!" If these words can be of use to you...wonderful!
Jo INMN
"When I move away from God's will for my life, I can be certain that good things, Godly things will never result. God, the Creator of all things will not be mocked. I alone must decide; do I submit my will to God's will? My eternal destiny and my usefulness to God on this earth hang in the balance.
(And my husband prayed:) "Lord God, give me a heart that seeks to sow seeds of the Spirit in my life. Amen."
When re-reading this old message, I thought of a word God had given me sometime ago regarding my need to be a "better person", worried about my own imperfections. These are His words to me...
"God isn't measuring your worth. He is only interested in revealing His worth!" If these words can be of use to you...wonderful!
Jo INMN
Saturday, November 21, 2015
SHEEP AMONG WOLVES
Matthew 10:16 says, "See I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves." Jesus warns His disciples--and us today--to understand that they and we are like sheep among a pack of hungry wolves. (Does this not remind you somewhat of the enemies in our world today?) The difference is that Jesus sends them and us out with His power. We are not lost sheep, but sheep obedient to the shepherd sent out with the shepherd's power. We are aware of the predatory and insidious ways of the wolves of the world. Jesus is always there as our shepherd, even when we're surrounded by wolves. The wolves with ways of this world will always try to ridicule and diminish the sheep of God in their midst.
We must not forget when we feel anxious or afraid when surrounded by wolves of the world, that Jesus is there beside us and in us. He has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you." When I am weak or unaware as a sheep often is, and neither wise nor completely innocent, Jesus becomes like a lion, the shepherd that protects.
Our call is to seek Jesus and His help. Lord Jesus, I thank you that you don't send us into the world on our own. May those who fight against your spirit see the Truth of your majesty.
JO inMN
Friday, November 20, 2015
TIME AND PRAYER=HUMILITY
In Matthew 5:44 it tells us "When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves."
"Time. Just take a tiny, little bit of time. time to pray. the energy needed to take that time is the most important energy I'll ever use. Time to remember to pray. And to pray for the person or persons who may be giving me a hard time. Or to just pray to God, remembering that He cares, and ask "How do I handle this?"
"God will surely answer. I know for a fact that God does answer. Many times in my desperation, I have prayed. God gives me wisdom and humility. And even if you only were to pray first to God once in a lifetime, God would give you wisdom and humility, too. If only once in your lifetime instead of lashing back at someone, you were to respond with acceptance and humility instead of hot words of pride, you would find a return of that same acceptance and humility.
"God, when I'm feeling attacked, help me to remember your gift of time and prayer that I might respond with humility, wisdom, and love. Thank you. Amen."
This prayer is just as important today as it was years ago. My own self is like many others, wanting to become more like Jesus. Thank you, Lord, for loving us in spite of our imperfections.
Jo INMN
"Time. Just take a tiny, little bit of time. time to pray. the energy needed to take that time is the most important energy I'll ever use. Time to remember to pray. And to pray for the person or persons who may be giving me a hard time. Or to just pray to God, remembering that He cares, and ask "How do I handle this?"
"God will surely answer. I know for a fact that God does answer. Many times in my desperation, I have prayed. God gives me wisdom and humility. And even if you only were to pray first to God once in a lifetime, God would give you wisdom and humility, too. If only once in your lifetime instead of lashing back at someone, you were to respond with acceptance and humility instead of hot words of pride, you would find a return of that same acceptance and humility.
"God, when I'm feeling attacked, help me to remember your gift of time and prayer that I might respond with humility, wisdom, and love. Thank you. Amen."
This prayer is just as important today as it was years ago. My own self is like many others, wanting to become more like Jesus. Thank you, Lord, for loving us in spite of our imperfections.
Jo INMN
Thursday, November 19, 2015
FAITH BUILDING, STORY BY STORY
In Matthew 13:58, we read "Because the people did not have any faith, Jesus did not work many miracles there." The people of Nazareth, the village of Jesus' birth, watched this boy grow up. After all, he was only the carpenter's son. So they did not have any particular hope for him as an adult. He was a rather strange child, one who loved the animals and the grass he walked on, was kind to the smaller children, and obeyed his mother. He did not join in to the mischief-making enjoyed by the other neighbors' children. Jesus would not work many miracles there; but he loved the reading of the scriptures read by the elders.
"How do we, today, go about making sure that we have faith so Jesus can do many miracles in our lives? What must we do as a family of God and as individuals to guarantee that our faith is real and deep and growing? Throughout our lives Jerry and I look for ways that we can share our faith stories. Different places we have lived, different churches, different neighbors and friends each have given us some kind of opportunity to share who we are, and hear who others are in Jesus. Many good people have entered our lives so we might hear their stories and they might listen to our story.
"Faith really grows by sharing it. So, we share our lives, remembering always that it is God we must trust, God who is in charge. It is God, then, who is totally faithful. Yet, I am certain that God is pleased by our sharing. As for us, perhaps we will be more attentive for His miracles.
"God, build my faith into a mountain! Let me be a sign of faith in you for all the world to see, and let the miracles you do in my life be my testimony to your goodness. I will not doubt your love and faithfulness to me and my family. Amen"
What today have I done to share the joy of the Lord? Nothing big. Words to a blog? A doctor appointment? Showing kindness to the nurses rather than annoyance? Our youngest daughter arriving this afternoon, and for all of these moments, and more, I praise you, Lord.
Jo INMN
"How do we, today, go about making sure that we have faith so Jesus can do many miracles in our lives? What must we do as a family of God and as individuals to guarantee that our faith is real and deep and growing? Throughout our lives Jerry and I look for ways that we can share our faith stories. Different places we have lived, different churches, different neighbors and friends each have given us some kind of opportunity to share who we are, and hear who others are in Jesus. Many good people have entered our lives so we might hear their stories and they might listen to our story.
"Faith really grows by sharing it. So, we share our lives, remembering always that it is God we must trust, God who is in charge. It is God, then, who is totally faithful. Yet, I am certain that God is pleased by our sharing. As for us, perhaps we will be more attentive for His miracles.
"God, build my faith into a mountain! Let me be a sign of faith in you for all the world to see, and let the miracles you do in my life be my testimony to your goodness. I will not doubt your love and faithfulness to me and my family. Amen"
What today have I done to share the joy of the Lord? Nothing big. Words to a blog? A doctor appointment? Showing kindness to the nurses rather than annoyance? Our youngest daughter arriving this afternoon, and for all of these moments, and more, I praise you, Lord.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
THE SIGNS OF THE SON
Matthew 3:17 says, "This is my own dear Son, and I am pleased with him."
"Here we have the Father speaking to the crowd watching as Christ is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. Here He is, born as a man, yet the very Son of God. The sign of the Holy Spirit, seen as a dove, comes down and sits upon Jesus. Is this vision intended for the people? For John? Or for Jesus?
"Perhaps things, signs, of the Spirit are revealed for us, for those of us watching for God-signs. God's signs are not necessary for Jesus. He may have a memory of being God's very self! To trust in God and God's Son one does not have to be certain of these ambiguous facts. Jesus is the son of God! For me there is no question, only a curiosity to know more about Him.
"Thank you, God, for questions of curiosity. Even doubts would assure me of your love for us through your love for your Son. May all of us doubt, and receive the assurance only you can give. Amen."
In this time of world conflict, doubt bumps into us all of the time. Every newspaper or news release that comes, we hurry to read or listen. Help us to remember our own job, asked of us by the Father.....Love our neighbors as ourselves. Love yourself as loved by God. Love is the only Light one has in the darkness of Despair.
Jo INMN
"Here we have the Father speaking to the crowd watching as Christ is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. Here He is, born as a man, yet the very Son of God. The sign of the Holy Spirit, seen as a dove, comes down and sits upon Jesus. Is this vision intended for the people? For John? Or for Jesus?
"Perhaps things, signs, of the Spirit are revealed for us, for those of us watching for God-signs. God's signs are not necessary for Jesus. He may have a memory of being God's very self! To trust in God and God's Son one does not have to be certain of these ambiguous facts. Jesus is the son of God! For me there is no question, only a curiosity to know more about Him.
"Thank you, God, for questions of curiosity. Even doubts would assure me of your love for us through your love for your Son. May all of us doubt, and receive the assurance only you can give. Amen."
In this time of world conflict, doubt bumps into us all of the time. Every newspaper or news release that comes, we hurry to read or listen. Help us to remember our own job, asked of us by the Father.....Love our neighbors as ourselves. Love yourself as loved by God. Love is the only Light one has in the darkness of Despair.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
GRIEF WITH GOD
"In 2 Corinthians 7:10, we read, "Godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation and brings no regret, but worldly grief produces death."
"Here, Paul emphasizes that when God brings to our attention an area of our lives where we fall short, it calls us to grieve over falling short of God's hope for us. In this grief, we repent and are forgiven and when Jesus looks at us He can say, "What sin?"
"When we grieve as the world grieves over the loss of a loved one, being caught in a situation of loss of trust, losing our job, home, or what we think is our future, we feel as if we may wither and die, or at least, find it very difficult to move on. Somehow, we must remember to trust in God in spite of our situation. It is as if we are being held up by God and we enter our grief with God. Shared grief brings forgiveness for your situation, and opens up a lighted, glorious pathway to walk and learn with the Lord. He walks beside us, encouraging us, lifting us up.
When I ask for and receive Godly grief, all that is needed from me is to say and believe, "Only against you, Lord, have I sinned. Forgive me." Immediately, Jesus says,, "What sin are you talking about?"
Lord I praise you for the gift of Godly grief. Amen.
JO inMN
"Here, Paul emphasizes that when God brings to our attention an area of our lives where we fall short, it calls us to grieve over falling short of God's hope for us. In this grief, we repent and are forgiven and when Jesus looks at us He can say, "What sin?"
"When we grieve as the world grieves over the loss of a loved one, being caught in a situation of loss of trust, losing our job, home, or what we think is our future, we feel as if we may wither and die, or at least, find it very difficult to move on. Somehow, we must remember to trust in God in spite of our situation. It is as if we are being held up by God and we enter our grief with God. Shared grief brings forgiveness for your situation, and opens up a lighted, glorious pathway to walk and learn with the Lord. He walks beside us, encouraging us, lifting us up.
When I ask for and receive Godly grief, all that is needed from me is to say and believe, "Only against you, Lord, have I sinned. Forgive me." Immediately, Jesus says,, "What sin are you talking about?"
Lord I praise you for the gift of Godly grief. Amen.
JO inMN
Monday, November 16, 2015
NEVER ENOUGH OF CHRIST
In the 2nd Book of Corinthians 5:18 it says "God has done it all! God sent Christ to make peace between God and us, and God has given us the work of making peace between God's self and others."
What a responsibility Paul gave to the people of Corinth, and yet, what an opportunity!
"We recognize that this lesson is also for us, yet it comes with a warning. We must first have the promised peace from Christ through an intimacy with him so that we recognize when our helpfulness is appropriate. We must be careful not to get involved with incidents between two people unless we are asked to help. Triangulation may strangle their own process of making peace. (I learned the hard way!)
"As our intimacy with Christ grows, opportunities to be Christ for others will become more natural and pure. Love will be more forthcoming, as Christ's was. Our character will be more generous with others. Our body language will be more Christ-like. Who would not want to be related in this way to the Lover of us all?
And now for Today: As I once prayed, I pray now: "God, I come to you for your blessing of grace and love. I praise you always, for the infinite measure of your love, your grace, and your pure holiness. Amen."
Today, again, as the full measure of our world's situation begins to really take hold in my heart and mind, I want to assure those who may read this that God is still loving the world. I believe He will love this world forever, in spite of the viciousness of some. Martin Luther King once said that only Light can take away the Darkness. This is pure Truth, capitalized because of the word's importance. Truth will remain Truth, just as Love, Peace, and Joy will always remain important in life. These things may not be in abundance here and there, but they are things of the Light and they will ultimately win.
Help us, Lord, to Trust in You, and to remember the beauty of Trust, in case we have to wait for Truth! As the Light shines, may it shine in you and in me. Jo INMN
What a responsibility Paul gave to the people of Corinth, and yet, what an opportunity!
"We recognize that this lesson is also for us, yet it comes with a warning. We must first have the promised peace from Christ through an intimacy with him so that we recognize when our helpfulness is appropriate. We must be careful not to get involved with incidents between two people unless we are asked to help. Triangulation may strangle their own process of making peace. (I learned the hard way!)
"As our intimacy with Christ grows, opportunities to be Christ for others will become more natural and pure. Love will be more forthcoming, as Christ's was. Our character will be more generous with others. Our body language will be more Christ-like. Who would not want to be related in this way to the Lover of us all?
And now for Today: As I once prayed, I pray now: "God, I come to you for your blessing of grace and love. I praise you always, for the infinite measure of your love, your grace, and your pure holiness. Amen."
Today, again, as the full measure of our world's situation begins to really take hold in my heart and mind, I want to assure those who may read this that God is still loving the world. I believe He will love this world forever, in spite of the viciousness of some. Martin Luther King once said that only Light can take away the Darkness. This is pure Truth, capitalized because of the word's importance. Truth will remain Truth, just as Love, Peace, and Joy will always remain important in life. These things may not be in abundance here and there, but they are things of the Light and they will ultimately win.
Help us, Lord, to Trust in You, and to remember the beauty of Trust, in case we have to wait for Truth! As the Light shines, may it shine in you and in me. Jo INMN
Saturday, November 14, 2015
ACTS OF HATE; ACTS OF LOVE
I Corinthians 13:7 reads, "No matter what I say, what I believe and what I do I'm bankrupt without love."
"Everything on this earth knows love. Love was in the designing and the making of this earth. God cannot or does not exist without love. Sometimes things happen to us in this life that seem totally without love and we wonder where God is. What is God doing? This is not an act of love! Doesn't God care?
"Bad things do happen on this earth, totally wrong things, acts totally without love. And we wonder how God--who is supposed to be all-knowing--would have allowed a thing so horrid to happen.
"I believe God understands how we feel, how we want to turn away. All feels lost. We become confused, angry. this "thing" is not an act of love. Where is our loving God?
"God is always right here. God may be holding your hand. Some act of love is here holding, caring, helping serving. God is here in those acts of love. This world is beset with evil. Evil is the criminal. God is the Justice and the Love.
"Help us understand, O God, and help us to trust that you are in the acts of love that follow tragedy. Help us to accept that you allow evil to be in the world until you come again. Amen."
This blog today was written for a book Jerry and I wrote for our kids several years ago. It was scheduled for the Nov. 14 entry. What better day to blog it?
We are all bent low because of the tragedy in Paris yesterday. How could this happen in this day of specialization of intelligence techniques? What kind of evil is this in a world longing for peace? I am just a responder, not an active participant. My words have little worth unless you are searching for God. But I abhor these merciless acts of violence and wonder where God is.
Help us to understand, O God, and help us to trust that you are in the acts of love that will follow this tragedy. Help us to offer ourselves in whatever way we can to help those who are in need. Help us to love where we can and accept love when it is given. Help us to accept this difficult truth, that you allow evil to be in the world until you come again.
Come soon, Lord Jesus! Amen.
Jo INMN
"Everything on this earth knows love. Love was in the designing and the making of this earth. God cannot or does not exist without love. Sometimes things happen to us in this life that seem totally without love and we wonder where God is. What is God doing? This is not an act of love! Doesn't God care?
"Bad things do happen on this earth, totally wrong things, acts totally without love. And we wonder how God--who is supposed to be all-knowing--would have allowed a thing so horrid to happen.
"I believe God understands how we feel, how we want to turn away. All feels lost. We become confused, angry. this "thing" is not an act of love. Where is our loving God?
"God is always right here. God may be holding your hand. Some act of love is here holding, caring, helping serving. God is here in those acts of love. This world is beset with evil. Evil is the criminal. God is the Justice and the Love.
"Help us understand, O God, and help us to trust that you are in the acts of love that follow tragedy. Help us to accept that you allow evil to be in the world until you come again. Amen."
This blog today was written for a book Jerry and I wrote for our kids several years ago. It was scheduled for the Nov. 14 entry. What better day to blog it?
We are all bent low because of the tragedy in Paris yesterday. How could this happen in this day of specialization of intelligence techniques? What kind of evil is this in a world longing for peace? I am just a responder, not an active participant. My words have little worth unless you are searching for God. But I abhor these merciless acts of violence and wonder where God is.
Help us to understand, O God, and help us to trust that you are in the acts of love that will follow this tragedy. Help us to offer ourselves in whatever way we can to help those who are in need. Help us to love where we can and accept love when it is given. Help us to accept this difficult truth, that you allow evil to be in the world until you come again.
Come soon, Lord Jesus! Amen.
Jo INMN
Friday, November 13, 2015
BUILD UP ONE ANOTHER
Corinthians 13:4-7 & 14:1-5 tell us, "Love is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, doesn't insist on its own way, rejoices in the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things....Pursue love and strive for the gifts of the Spirit...so that the church may be built up."
"Paul stresses that those who would be disciples of Jesus must always act and speak out of love to build up the Body of Christ on earth which is the church. He cautions against dissent, discord, jealousy, envy, a critical mind, and a loose tongue. If we are to follow the great commission of Jesus to go and make disciples, we must always act from a heart of love for others. We must get our own needs, ego, and self out of the center and place Jesus as our center to see every person through the eyes of Christ.
"My task is to build up and never build fences or walls. My job as Jesus' disciple is to be inclusive, never exclusive. The body of Christ is never to be a fraternity or sorority, but an open door to all comers.
"Jesus, may I be used to build up your church where you've planted me. Amen."
This written, long ago by my husband, Jerry, is still useful as a reminder for me to love others no matter what. Pursuing love with all people still is first in my desire to be like Christ. Christ pursued each of us through one thing or another, such as: through a book we may have read, through a neighbor or friend needing help, being in a difficult situation that seems to have no remedy, and just being lonely. When I feel lonely, I may wish for a phone call, when my Lord is only a prayer away. The first thing I must always remember: He is only as far away as my voice speaking His name.
I pray you and I will always remember His name....Jesus!!
Jo INMN
"Paul stresses that those who would be disciples of Jesus must always act and speak out of love to build up the Body of Christ on earth which is the church. He cautions against dissent, discord, jealousy, envy, a critical mind, and a loose tongue. If we are to follow the great commission of Jesus to go and make disciples, we must always act from a heart of love for others. We must get our own needs, ego, and self out of the center and place Jesus as our center to see every person through the eyes of Christ.
"My task is to build up and never build fences or walls. My job as Jesus' disciple is to be inclusive, never exclusive. The body of Christ is never to be a fraternity or sorority, but an open door to all comers.
"Jesus, may I be used to build up your church where you've planted me. Amen."
This written, long ago by my husband, Jerry, is still useful as a reminder for me to love others no matter what. Pursuing love with all people still is first in my desire to be like Christ. Christ pursued each of us through one thing or another, such as: through a book we may have read, through a neighbor or friend needing help, being in a difficult situation that seems to have no remedy, and just being lonely. When I feel lonely, I may wish for a phone call, when my Lord is only a prayer away. The first thing I must always remember: He is only as far away as my voice speaking His name.
I pray you and I will always remember His name....Jesus!!
Jo INMN
Thursday, November 12, 2015
BELIEVE IN GOD'S GRACE
Still reading from Job, we find Job 38:1 which says, "From out of a storm the Lord said to Job, "why do you talk so much when you know so little?"
"Wow! Job must have sat back on his heels when he heard that! Imagine, Job is fighting for justification having lost everything. His three friends have found him having a pity party. He has plenty of cause, but the friends have not been at all sympathetic. Job believes he had not sinned, therefore God had no reason to "punish" him. Then God comes along and basically says, "You know nothing about why I do what I do, or why I did what I did! Why don't you just be quiet?"
"Job may have been the most righteous of all men and totally undeserving of his burdens, but it rains on both the just and the unjust. Yet we usually question God, "Why me?"
"Perhaps someday we will get a chance to ask God that question. But while we are on this earth, the question "why me?" only frustrates us and leads us to bitterness, because there is no answer. It's really tough to understand, but the question, "Why not me?" leads us to acceptance. Acceptance is a part of grace and God offers grace with every burden.
Now, many years after writing this, I can see clearly that each of us have difficulties to accept. Instead of wondering "why?", I believe God teaches us more and more how to trust him in spite of what we are going through. Each hardship should lead us closer to the heart of God. Out of our need, we find Him. When we are suffering, we need Him the most, and our need drives us straight to His heart. Hardship draws us to God and out of our need, we find Him.
God, I pray to remember always your past kindnesses when my life becomes burdensome. I appeal to you for your continued grace and may I witness your grace and believe it no matter what. Amen.
Jo INMN
"Wow! Job must have sat back on his heels when he heard that! Imagine, Job is fighting for justification having lost everything. His three friends have found him having a pity party. He has plenty of cause, but the friends have not been at all sympathetic. Job believes he had not sinned, therefore God had no reason to "punish" him. Then God comes along and basically says, "You know nothing about why I do what I do, or why I did what I did! Why don't you just be quiet?"
"Job may have been the most righteous of all men and totally undeserving of his burdens, but it rains on both the just and the unjust. Yet we usually question God, "Why me?"
"Perhaps someday we will get a chance to ask God that question. But while we are on this earth, the question "why me?" only frustrates us and leads us to bitterness, because there is no answer. It's really tough to understand, but the question, "Why not me?" leads us to acceptance. Acceptance is a part of grace and God offers grace with every burden.
Now, many years after writing this, I can see clearly that each of us have difficulties to accept. Instead of wondering "why?", I believe God teaches us more and more how to trust him in spite of what we are going through. Each hardship should lead us closer to the heart of God. Out of our need, we find Him. When we are suffering, we need Him the most, and our need drives us straight to His heart. Hardship draws us to God and out of our need, we find Him.
God, I pray to remember always your past kindnesses when my life becomes burdensome. I appeal to you for your continued grace and may I witness your grace and believe it no matter what. Amen.
Jo INMN
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
GLORIFY GOD IN ALL YOU DO
In I Corinthians 10:23,31 it reads, "All things are lawful, but not all tings are beneficial. All things are lawful but not all things build up....So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God."
"As Paul writes to the believers in Corinth which he had planted and to whom he had preached the Good News of Jesus Christ, he wrote a summary of the things to do and the things not to do. "Whatever you do, do it for the Glory of God." Paul says if what you are doing builds up and is beneficial to the Christian body on earth, then it is correct. He continued to say there is no discrimination of Jew or Greek, rich or poor, slave or free, male or female. In all we do we are to advance the gospel, not derail it.
"The freedom of the Gospel is so wide that it gives me (Jerry)great latitude to what I do. However, I must always ask, "Is this beneficial and will it build up the faith of those who are directly affected by it? If not, it's not God's plan for me.
"Lord Jesus, your message of personal freedom of choice lets me decide what I can do. May I always build up others and never tear down. Amen" (End of Jerry's entry)
I remember well when this was written. A man and woman we knew had a relationship outside of their marriages. The resultant two who had not invested outside of their marriages were terribly hurt.
These things do happen in our "real life" scenarios, but how does one react to each of the four people? Do we forgive those who acted out of his and her marriage? We could not fix it or demand them to "fix it." We prayed for God's leading. And we forgave. We gave comfort to those who were hurt. And we prayed that we would always keep our own marriages sacred.
Lord, help me to see my marriage vows as a promise to You. Help me to see all of my future decisions to honestly decide if it entails hurting another, and therefore, hurting You. Amen.
Jo INMN
"As Paul writes to the believers in Corinth which he had planted and to whom he had preached the Good News of Jesus Christ, he wrote a summary of the things to do and the things not to do. "Whatever you do, do it for the Glory of God." Paul says if what you are doing builds up and is beneficial to the Christian body on earth, then it is correct. He continued to say there is no discrimination of Jew or Greek, rich or poor, slave or free, male or female. In all we do we are to advance the gospel, not derail it.
"The freedom of the Gospel is so wide that it gives me (Jerry)great latitude to what I do. However, I must always ask, "Is this beneficial and will it build up the faith of those who are directly affected by it? If not, it's not God's plan for me.
"Lord Jesus, your message of personal freedom of choice lets me decide what I can do. May I always build up others and never tear down. Amen" (End of Jerry's entry)
I remember well when this was written. A man and woman we knew had a relationship outside of their marriages. The resultant two who had not invested outside of their marriages were terribly hurt.
These things do happen in our "real life" scenarios, but how does one react to each of the four people? Do we forgive those who acted out of his and her marriage? We could not fix it or demand them to "fix it." We prayed for God's leading. And we forgave. We gave comfort to those who were hurt. And we prayed that we would always keep our own marriages sacred.
Lord, help me to see my marriage vows as a promise to You. Help me to see all of my future decisions to honestly decide if it entails hurting another, and therefore, hurting You. Amen.
Jo INMN
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
HONOR THY FATHER
Job 35:6-8 asks us, "Do your sins hurt God? Is any good you may have done at all helpful to God? The evil or good you do only affects other humans."
"This was argued in the Old Testament by Elihu to Job, but doesn't ring true to me at all! Although I may be wrong, I think that my sins directly hurt God. In fact, they probably hurt God more than those affected by my sin on earth! If I was not a child of God, living in Christ, living eternal life day by day, I don't think my sin would hurt God. But once I have given my life to God, what I do is of great importance to God--both the good that I do and my sinful acts. Each affect God and God's love for me. The good I do is done to give God honor and when I deny God through my pride or anger, I hurt God's honor.
"What God's children do, whether good or not, affects others around us, our family, our church family, our church's reputation, Christians in general, and ourselves. Plus it reflects upon God and God's honor, as we are One in Him.
"God, help me remember that when people see or hear me, as your child I am an extension of You. Help me to live in a way that you might always be honored by my actions. Amen."
Hope you are with me on this one.
Lovingly, Jo INMN
"This was argued in the Old Testament by Elihu to Job, but doesn't ring true to me at all! Although I may be wrong, I think that my sins directly hurt God. In fact, they probably hurt God more than those affected by my sin on earth! If I was not a child of God, living in Christ, living eternal life day by day, I don't think my sin would hurt God. But once I have given my life to God, what I do is of great importance to God--both the good that I do and my sinful acts. Each affect God and God's love for me. The good I do is done to give God honor and when I deny God through my pride or anger, I hurt God's honor.
"What God's children do, whether good or not, affects others around us, our family, our church family, our church's reputation, Christians in general, and ourselves. Plus it reflects upon God and God's honor, as we are One in Him.
"God, help me remember that when people see or hear me, as your child I am an extension of You. Help me to live in a way that you might always be honored by my actions. Amen."
Hope you are with me on this one.
Lovingly, Jo INMN
Monday, November 9, 2015
STUMBLING BLOCKS
In I Corinthians 8:9 it says, "But take care that the freedom you have in Christ does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak."
Jerry reminds us that in this discourse to the people in Corinth, Paul is going over the freedoms we have in Christ in many areas of life. Paul admonishes in 8:1 that knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. He is saying that as Christians, our bottom line is, "Does the love of Jesus Christ shine through" whatever it is we are doing, that others might be drawn to Jesus? If in our knowledge of our own freedom we cause another to stumble in their faith walk, we've not shown love. For instance, we have opinions on governments, etc. that may not be the same as another's. It's best to stay out of those discussions lest it becomes a stumbling bloc for someone in their faith.
"I (Jerry) must always remember that I might be the only Bible that others are ever exposed to in life. I must guard what I say or do that I not become a stumbling block that will turn others away from a faith walk in Jesus Christ.
"Lord Jesus, May I only show your love that I not cause another to stumble. Amen."
I won't change a word, as Jerry has spoken well, in my opinion. I remember a time when I argued something with a guest we had for dinner. It was not that important in the first place that I would want to make a desperate attempt to be right.I'm embarrassed about it today, and try not to argue over things. We have a right to opinions, and so does everyone else. Choose to love, instead of needing to be right!
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me once again, that what I think is not as important as being a compatible friend!
JoINMN
Saturday, November 7, 2015
A PRIVILEGE, AN HONOR, A JOY
1 Corinthians 3:23 says: "You are privileged to be in union with Christ, who is in union with God." That is clear enough, yet I still forget these words on occasion. And I forget how truly privileged I am. Paul's letter to Corinth implies that the Corinthians too, sometimes forgot what being One with Christ really means.
"God accepts me,as He did the Corinthians who were mostly Gentiles. Each of us have been brought to a loving place in Christ Jesus. What a blessing that is! I am honored, privileged that in spite of my imperfections, Christ allows me to be part of Him. What a joy! I am part of Christ's One-ness with God, the Creator, the Over-seer, the Perfect "Papa!" I'm certain there are times that I disappoint God, but still, I am One with God because of Christ's perfection and His perfect sacrifice!
"Lord, How can I ever thank you for this great privilege? I shall try to always trust in you and not myself. For where I am weak, you are strong! And may it ever be so. Amen."
Do you sometimes find yourself wondering how this connection with God can be real? Not from doubting God, but from doubting yourself? If so, tell yourself you are strong only in Christ and not in your own Self. Only with Christ can we be perfected, and guess what? We will not ever know it about ourselves!!
Jo INMN
Friday, November 6, 2015
AM I A CRAZY LADY?
Galatians 3:3 says, "Only crazy people would think they could complete by their own efforts what was begun by God."Well, call me crazy! It seems ridiculous to not try and finish a job which has not been finished yet, especially when one can see it would be better if it were finished now. More than one person has intimated that it was my job to "Pull yourself up!; Stand straight and tall! You can do it! It just takes a little will power!"
"Yes, but even Popeye said, "I yam what I yam!" Perhaps, like Popeye, part of me refuses to change. Yet, I swear to those who may be reading this,"I would really like to change!" I would like to be a person who can handle all irritations with serenity and kindness. But it doesn't seem to happen, and I don't quite know how to make it happen.
Am I crazy? NO! But, I do need to remember to have faith that God will not let me down. My faith cannot be in who I am, but in who God is. And God will use me as He wills and change me if he wants. Now, doesn't that sound crazy? It may, but it's not!
LordGod, sometimes I am a puzzle even to myself. Have mercy on me and keep me grounded in faith in you so that I can accept whatever you wish to do with me. Amen.
Have you been troubled with questions about unanswered prayer, too? Probably so. But Let's hold each other up in prayer, so we do not fail the faith that we have been given. God has reasons that we rarely understand and yet we must hang on to the precious faith He has given us.
Jo INMN
Thursday, November 5, 2015
LAMENT AND DISTRESS
Jerry, in reading Job 30:26, Psalm 120:1; and Galatians 3:11,13 decided to write about what he read. "When I looked for good, evil came; when I waited for light, darkness came...In my distress, I cry to the Lord that He may answer me....Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for "the one who is righteous will live by faith." Christ Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law.
"Job and the Psalmist both lament that they are trying to be right with God through following all the Jewish laws and good works, yet find no answer from God when in the midst of distress. Jesus came to set humanity free from those laws and He said, "I will be with you always; I'll never abandon you." Jesus doesn't prevent us from going through pain, sorrow, or grief, but He said, 'Just reach out and hold my hand; I'll walk with you.'
"When darkness comes over me, I am now assured that Jesus walks with me. There may be distress as Job experienced, but Jesus will be there through all my sufferings.
Lord Jesus, I praise you that you are there for me when I face distress in my life. Amen."
As Jerry spoke, so say I, and I hope you agree and hope especially that you, also , have experienced Christ in your life if you have needed help! We're all in this together!
Jo INMN
"Job and the Psalmist both lament that they are trying to be right with God through following all the Jewish laws and good works, yet find no answer from God when in the midst of distress. Jesus came to set humanity free from those laws and He said, "I will be with you always; I'll never abandon you." Jesus doesn't prevent us from going through pain, sorrow, or grief, but He said, 'Just reach out and hold my hand; I'll walk with you.'
"When darkness comes over me, I am now assured that Jesus walks with me. There may be distress as Job experienced, but Jesus will be there through all my sufferings.
Lord Jesus, I praise you that you are there for me when I face distress in my life. Amen."
As Jerry spoke, so say I, and I hope you agree and hope especially that you, also , have experienced Christ in your life if you have needed help! We're all in this together!
Jo INMN
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
CAN'T NEVER TRIED!
Mark 15:31 b,32 a reads, "He saved others, but he can't save himself. If He is the Messiah, the King of Israel, let him come down from the cross. Then we will see and believe." The word "can't" in this passage reveals the ignorance of the people. Jesus could have saved himself, but chose not to.
"My parents had a saying, "Can't never tried." I hated hearing that. If I said, "I can't," someone surely would add, "Can't never tried." If people insist that the only reason Jesus didn't come down from the cross was because he couldn't or because he didn't try, they would be sadly mistaken. Jesus has saved thousands by not saving himself. He was being obedient to His Father.
"Those folks so long ago were mistaken. Jesus could have saved himself, but chose to die on the cross in obedience to the Father's plan to show the way for the world to become right with God. And that way is to accept Jesus as the Son of the Father, God on the earth. " And I might add, accept His presence here on earth, born of a virgin, and being right with God as a Son is right with His Father. He was to die that we might live, to recognize our imperfections and His perfection. Jesus was obedient so that we might have forgiveness and life in God, now and eternally.
(Now back to the reading...)"God I am in such awe of your Son. I am amazed to think that He chose to die for me rather than to save himself. May I have a history of self-less-ness when I finally go to You. Please, Lord, center me in You. Amen."
Jo INMN
"My parents had a saying, "Can't never tried." I hated hearing that. If I said, "I can't," someone surely would add, "Can't never tried." If people insist that the only reason Jesus didn't come down from the cross was because he couldn't or because he didn't try, they would be sadly mistaken. Jesus has saved thousands by not saving himself. He was being obedient to His Father.
"Those folks so long ago were mistaken. Jesus could have saved himself, but chose to die on the cross in obedience to the Father's plan to show the way for the world to become right with God. And that way is to accept Jesus as the Son of the Father, God on the earth. " And I might add, accept His presence here on earth, born of a virgin, and being right with God as a Son is right with His Father. He was to die that we might live, to recognize our imperfections and His perfection. Jesus was obedient so that we might have forgiveness and life in God, now and eternally.
(Now back to the reading...)"God I am in such awe of your Son. I am amazed to think that He chose to die for me rather than to save himself. May I have a history of self-less-ness when I finally go to You. Please, Lord, center me in You. Amen."
Jo INMN
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
WILLING SPIRITS; WEAK FLESH
November 3, some years ago, Jerry read from Mark 24:38, "Jesus said to His disciples as they had fallen asleep while he was off by Himself in prayer to the Father, 'Keep awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak.'"
"Jesus never put His trust in humans (though he loved them) for He knew that humans were born with a sinful nature inherent. He told His disciples that life would need to be filled with continual vigilance because, although their spirit wanted to follow Him, the human flesh and the desires of this world would always be present to go against God's ways.
"My own human condition is exactly like that of all mankind. My spirit is willing yet my flesh is weak. The approval and values of this world are always there lurking about, awaiting an opportune moment to come in.
"Lord Jesus, keep me alert and vigilant to the tempting ways of the world that I may turn away. Amen."
Jerry's prayer is very much like one that I have made many times. I'm aware that those friends of mine who love the Lord, pray much the same way. It is the human condition. Our spirits' long for the perfect obedience God hopes for, yet we make the same mistakes over and over because we are weak. Complete obedience is our aim, but our humanity closes in, and we miss the bulls-eye!
Lord, Jesus, be with us as we start over and over, and help us to close in on the mark that you have made for us--continued prayer for the weak points in our own lives and the lives of others we love.
Jo INMN
"Jesus never put His trust in humans (though he loved them) for He knew that humans were born with a sinful nature inherent. He told His disciples that life would need to be filled with continual vigilance because, although their spirit wanted to follow Him, the human flesh and the desires of this world would always be present to go against God's ways.
"My own human condition is exactly like that of all mankind. My spirit is willing yet my flesh is weak. The approval and values of this world are always there lurking about, awaiting an opportune moment to come in.
"Lord Jesus, keep me alert and vigilant to the tempting ways of the world that I may turn away. Amen."
Jerry's prayer is very much like one that I have made many times. I'm aware that those friends of mine who love the Lord, pray much the same way. It is the human condition. Our spirits' long for the perfect obedience God hopes for, yet we make the same mistakes over and over because we are weak. Complete obedience is our aim, but our humanity closes in, and we miss the bulls-eye!
Lord, Jesus, be with us as we start over and over, and help us to close in on the mark that you have made for us--continued prayer for the weak points in our own lives and the lives of others we love.
Jo INMN
Monday, November 2, 2015
AS IT IS WITH ANGELS
"Mark 12:25 says, "As it is with angels now, all our ecstasies and intimacies then will be with God." And scholars conclude from Mark's words that when the dead are raised , that is how it will be for us. We will be intimate and ecstatic with God.
"As a living human, I try to be intimate with God and yearn for ecstasy with God, but it is hard to find this in my human experience. I am content with study, services, and having faith that God is with me in all His majesty.
"Perhaps some have true intimacy, like Mother Theresa; others may know ecstasy. I live on faith that God's presence is real. My eyes have not seen God, but only the results of God's presence. That's enough for me. I have not heard God's voice but have heard the voices of others who love God teach me, and have sensed His leading in my thinking. Both bring me peace and assurance. I have not fainted with rapture or been "slayed" by His Spirit, but I have known God's healing power in sickness and for that I am ever thankful. My trust and love for God have grown strong. so I am content to wait until the dead are raised to know God in a different way. As of now, God is here, near me. God's Spirit is within.
"Thank you, God. Amen."
And I pray the same for you, dear friend.
Jo INMN
"As a living human, I try to be intimate with God and yearn for ecstasy with God, but it is hard to find this in my human experience. I am content with study, services, and having faith that God is with me in all His majesty.
"Perhaps some have true intimacy, like Mother Theresa; others may know ecstasy. I live on faith that God's presence is real. My eyes have not seen God, but only the results of God's presence. That's enough for me. I have not heard God's voice but have heard the voices of others who love God teach me, and have sensed His leading in my thinking. Both bring me peace and assurance. I have not fainted with rapture or been "slayed" by His Spirit, but I have known God's healing power in sickness and for that I am ever thankful. My trust and love for God have grown strong. so I am content to wait until the dead are raised to know God in a different way. As of now, God is here, near me. God's Spirit is within.
"Thank you, God. Amen."
And I pray the same for you, dear friend.
Jo INMN
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