NEW HEAVEN, NEW EARTH!

Revelation 21:2 and 22 says, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, and I saw the holy city Jerusalem coming down from heaven.....and there was no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God Almighty and Jesus, the Lamb."


"John saw in his revelation of the new heaven there was no physical temple building because Jesus would be the temple within those who love Him.  We don't go to the temple; Jesus comes to us as His Holy Spirit and dwells within us.


'There is no sacred building for us to go to find and worship Jesus, because He lives in you and me.  His Spirit abodes in us, His people.  Paul said "Did you not know that your very body is the temple of the Holy Spirit?"  Because Jesus lives in and with me, I never need question if this is God's will, for he will direct my ways and light my path as I let go of my old need to control and grasp my trust in Him.


"Lord. we give you praise and thanks that you have placed the Temple of your Holy Spirit within me and all others who love you. And we give you thanks for those who teach us of you and help us to worship you together in our churches. Amen."


In this new year on its way, we are thankful for God and His goodness and for His plans for His people.  We hold each other fast in our hearts.


Jo INMN

KEEP WATCH; BE READY!

Revelation 16:15 tells us, "Keep watch!  I come unannounced, like a thief.  You're  blessed if,  awake and dressed, you're ready for me.  Too bad if you're found running through the streets, naked and ashamed!" Oooh, not a pretty picture!!


"Revelation sends a warning--Be alert! Be ready!  Watch for Jesus.  Watch for signs of those who need Jesus, for you are His hands and feet in the world.  Christ is counting on His people.  So watch the world to see where His love is needed! Revelation tells us to stay ready, insisting on it.


Yes, be ready!  Pray, pray, pray.  Stay centered on the Holy One and the Holy.  Think Jesus! Sleep Jesus!  Especially in a crisis when it is more difficult to think clearly, think and act: Jesus, Jesus, Jesus! If failure comes, remember Jesus and His blood of redemption and God's kindness because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and be ready once again.


All this, done not to be found naked and ashamed.  All this, done to give honor to the Father, Creator God. All this, given because this is who I desire to be.  All this, given because I am His.


Thank you, God, for the great privilege of being Yours.  And thank you for your Word that reminds me of your desire for me... and all that love you... to keep watch and to be ready.  Amen.


Let's each one of us stay firm in Him, ready to show the world and those within it, what the Lord Jesus is all about!


Jo INMN

DIVINE WAR

In Revelation 12:9, 13:7, and 14:9 and 10, we read, "The great dragon called the Devil and Satan along with his angels were thrown down to earth....Satan was allowed to make war on the saints of God and to conquer them, and was given authority over all the earth...Those who worship the beast and receive his mark, 666, will drink of God's wrath."


"In this passage, we see God has removed the deceiver from heaven and given him the power to deceive those on earth. Therefore, we humans have a distinct choice to make.  We can either be God's children or Satan's slaves.  God never demands that we follow Him, but always allows a freedom of choice.  When one chooses, one becomes a servant or a slave of the one chosen.


"I chose Christ, and I chose to follow Him.  God, I thank you that you have allowed freedom of choice.  Amen."


Although this was written long ago by Jerry, it is the same step that I made, too, and I pray that many of you have chosen God, as well. Choosing God rather than Satan does not make us perfect.  The opportunity is there for perfection, but most people struggle along with some imperfections that don't seem to go away.  Have patience and faith, for the Holy Spirit is working on those areas for all of us. He, also, needs us to overcome, for His need for us in the world is great, imperfect or perfect.


I want to be a tool for Christ.  Maybe you do, too.  Ask Him, and He will lead when we are ready.


Jo INMN

AMEN! THE BEGINNING AND THE END!

Revelation 7:12 shouts, "Amen!  Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever.  Amen!"


Angels and elders shout this message to the Lord God in this passage of the Revelation of John.  Without question, they offer these things to Him.  Shall we not do so, also?


We praise you, Lord, for your goodness and your might.  We see your Glory in all the world.  We hear your wisdom spoken by brothers and sisters, and read of your wisdom in your Word.  We give you our heartfelt thanks for your enduring mercy to us.  We try to honor you by doing our best and encourage your honor being given in the service of others.  We feel your power within us at times when we least expect it, and we wait for your promised power after asking for it.  We have been given our strength through our prayers and the prayers of others. We feel strength in our hearts and body as if it was a growing thing. May you always abound with all the great goodness that you are and may we be included in your bounty as your children and heirs.  In your most Holy Name, Amen.


Thanks be to God!


Jo INMN

BEING IN GOD'S SERVICE

John 16:2b says, "Whoever kills you (who believes in me) will think that he offers God service."


"As I read this, and perhaps as you read it, we can't help but think of the young Muslims who eagerly blow up themselves to kill Westerners and those who assist the West toward democracy. Having just recently seen this in Paris and other spots in the world, even touching the U.S., we are quite aware of the problem.  In their minds, all Westerners are evil, and perhaps it is thought all Westerners are Christian.  In their zeal they believe they are dying in God's service, even worshipping God by their acts. Christians who profess their faith are killed by those of other beliefs, as well, because of the belief that Christianity should be eradicated.


"When  I, Jerry, confess and live for Jesus, I can expect to be persecuted, perhaps even killed on His behalf.  As Jesus gave love to me, so I must openly give love to Him by loving others as He loved, so that the world might see love, not this hatred that kills. This will be our greatest task, to love those who hate us.  We will need the heart of Jesus Christ to do this.  


Lord, We give you praise that you have called us to love, being yours  in service.  Help us to show your love to those who hate us.  Guide us, teach us, and do not leave our side.  Amen.


Jo INMN

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Wishing each person reading this blog today or any other day a most Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  God loves you!  Check Him out and He'll show you His love!


Bless us, Lord, on this your Birthday!


Jo INMN

MUST-TRUST TROUBLES

John 14:1, tells us, "Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God; trust also in me."


"What is one doing when one's heart is troubled?  Worrying, that's what!  My mother, Verle, and her mother, Mable, felt their jobs were to worry.  I have known for a long time that worrying is not my job.  No, my job is to trust God, and that's not so easy, either.  There are times when my heart becomes sad because of the deaths from the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria.  And not only the deaths, but the horrible mutilations left among the wounded. Or, too, something happens to one of one's family. Or some dad loses his job or the mom becomes terribly ill.  These things do happen, but the sadness becomes a reason to pray incessantly.


When Jesus says, "Trust in God; trust also in me," it appears that he is separating the two.  But later, we are told that they are One.  So, by praying to either the Father or to Jesus, it is no problem for they are One.  And so we shall do that, right now!


Father and Son God, thank you for keeping my heart untroubled by your generous spirit.  May I always remember that no problem in this world need be on my shoulders, that you are in charge, and will do what you deem best.  Help me to always trust in you and to know, "Wherever One of You is, so shall the Other be."  Amen.


So shall the Other be, today and always.


Jo INMN

MY TIME IS YOUR TIME

In John 7 verse 6 Jesus is speaking to his natural brothers, born of Mary and Joseph a question about why he did not go back to Judea where he was known.  Jesus answered, "My time is not yet come, but your time is always here."


"When Jesus' brothers questioned Jesus about why he did not go back to Judea in order to let himself be more well-known, Jesus answered that His time had not yet come.  His brothers were not believers in his being the Messiah, but they did hear word of Jesus' miracles and perhaps hoped to gain something from his fame.  Jesus answered them that His time had not yet come.  His brothers were not believers in Jesus being the Messiah, but they did hear word of Jesus' miracles.  Jesus also told theme that their time is always here.


"What Jesus said fits into today's Christian activities.  Jesus' time to return is still not yet here, but our time is always here--to  reach out, to feed and clothe the poor, to find peace with others, to create goodness, honesty, and beauty.  Jesus will return some day and then His time for ruling will be upon the earth.  But the world until then, will not become changed and adoring of Christ if we don't pick up Jesus' work and carry it out."


At this moment, I interrupt Jerry's words and put some of my own in, for the time now is more desperate even than it was when these words were originally written.  The spell now is that a great enemy is at hand trying to get different faiths to war with one another, rather than the world fighting against the terror that this enemy is pushing upon the world.  How can we fight against it without weapons?


Oh, we can.  Yes, we can.  We can love one another.  We can love the people who yet do not know Christ.  We can love each other and try to protect, in love and with love, one another...male or female, children and the old, mothers, fathers, all nationalities, all faiths, all color, rich or poor,
everyone we meet or contact. Spoken word, written word, repeated word, handshakes, smiles, tears, any loving emotions we can share.  And fighting against fear, everyone, all together trusting God is with us, for us, and not against us.


Can we do it?  God, Now is the time.  May we not be afraid to use the power you are sending to each one of us to continue your work in the world that has been set before us. Give us your grace, your peace and the certainty that you are with us once again. Amen.


Onward, as Christian Soldiers!


Jo INMN

THE BREAD OF LIFE

John 6:35 tells us more about Jesus, "I am the Bread of Life.  Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.  Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me and I in them.  Because of these words many disciples turned back and no longer went with Jesus."


"Jesus' words were spiritual in meaning, but those whose ears were not opened by the Father took the words literally as though it meant something cannibalistic, and many including some of His followers said, "This is too hard.  He can't possibly be the Messiah!"


"But Jesus went on to say that no one can come to Him unless granted by God to have an open heart.  I thank God that my heart was opened to hear these words and understand their spiritual meaning.  Those of us today have communion services to help us understand that the bread is symbolic for Jesus' flesh and wine for His blood, yet also believe that Jesus is somehow present in these symbols.


"Thank you, Father, for drawing us to Jesus and for giving us open hearts.  Amen"

MISPLACED ZEAL

In John 2:17 John tells us, "Zeal for your house consumes me." He speaks about Jesus' house, the Temple in Jerusalem.  Jesus cleared the Temple of thieves in one mighty act.  Angry at the money changers with their devious ways, He cleared them out, showing righteous anger.


"What Jesus did was right and good. But the zeal Jesus had was born of love of God who appointed the Temple to be His dwelling place.  Jesus was honoring God.  His zeal was for God, spilling over into love for God's house.


"Many of us can relate to Jesus' act of anger in the temple, for the temple was being misused by the money-changers.  But sometimes we humans take our zeal for God and end up with an obsession for "doing."  First and foremost, God wants us to "be."  Be a child of God, be teachable, be loving, be willing to learn, be willing to obey, and be trusting of God, always turning toward God, not zealous for proving oneself to be right and righteous.  God will show us what he wants us to "do" after we learn to "be" His.


"God, dear God, I'm still just  beginning to see how I shifted into works that I hoped would prove I have some goodness.  Forgive me.  May my zeal be for You.  May my insecurities about myself be let go and may my love for you be in your safe-keeping.  AMEN"


Push on, my friends, push on!


Jo INMN

SLAVES

"In 2 Peter, he says, "People are slaves to whatever masters them."  Peter declares what we all know!


 "Whatever is in the center of our being and our focus in life becomes our master.  We block out anything that interferes with our  progress toward that goal, and it in effect, becomes our master.  We become enslaved to pursue that goal above all else.  It might be education, money, personal fitness, acceptance by others, a love relationship, or whatever.  It doesn't matter, because that particular thing becomes our singular focus.  If Jesus Christ is Lord and Master of our lives we become "slaves" in the best way to Him, just as Paul, Peter, and the other early leaders of the faith.


"How do I keep a check on who or what is my master today?  I can tell by my checkbook and see where I spend my money.  Where my money is, there is my heart!


"I want Jesus Christ alone to be my Master, with everything else second on down.  I want to be His, to walk and talk with Him and to share His love with all I meet.  That is my goal.


"Lord Jesus, I desire to be yours, to be your slave, and you my Master.  Amen."


Jerry wrote these words years ago, still believing today that it is the right road to follow.  It is the right way to go.  He may not do this perfectly, but well enough to prove his love for Christ.  And, after all, that is what we are all about, is it not?


Lord, each of us here on this earth wants to prove our love for you.  Help us to cherish and reveal your worth and not measure our own in any selfish way. Amen.


Jo INMN

SUFFER IN SILENCE

I Peter 2:23," (Christ) suffered in silence, content to let God set things right."


" Peter continually stressed in his letter, "Be like Jesus."  And in the verse above the words tell us that Christ suffered in silence.  Now, we know that to be true.  Christ's silence before the Sanhedrin, which was the group of leading rabbis, and before Pilate, the Roman governor of Israel, as he was about to be crucified revealed His wisdom and humility.  Jesus knew God's plan, and He accepted it.  He was much troubled by what lay ahead, yet He took it all silently, accepting His task, knowing that God would make it right.


" If only I had learned earlier in my life to suffer in silence.  I talked about my suffering to anyone who would listen!  I am not sure that I have yet learned this thing.  But, I hope that I may learn this as I'm sure suffering will come once again someday.  I hope I might have wisdom and humility to accept what comes my way, so that I might take the lesson and use it for compassion when others may suffer.


"Lord, let it be so.  Have mercy on me, a sinner.  Amen."


Well, that was said years ago.  And I still suffer for I have discovered I am far from being "like Jesus."  I pray that the Holy Spirit will work His work in me, but I wonder...for I act before I pray far too often. I don't think God has given up on me as yet.  I  hope not, as I love Him dearly. but, I fear I love myself more, sometimes. This grieves me much.  But, I do not give up hope that my Lord will still have time to touch my heart in a way that I will receive the work He is longing for me.


Lord, if there is another like me anywhere in the world,  I pray for your forgiveness and for their perfect attention to your Spirit. And that, I too, will learn and accept your compassion and teaching.


Jo INMN

THE ROYAL LAW

James 2:8 tells us, "You do well if you really fulfill the royal law according to the scriptures, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." (James is the natural brother of Jesus, and a leader of the synagogue in Israel.)


"James is quoting the words of Jesus in answer to the question, "Which of the commandments is the greatest.?" James reminds us that this is not just a generalized concept, but one that we must really abide by.  This is the attitude that must be exhibited, even when my "neighbor" is obnoxious or repulsive to me.  Jesus came to save lost sinners.  He does this even while we are sinning and far from the Kingdom of God.  As disciples of Jesus can we do less?


"This is a commandment for me that is easy to say, but hard to fulfill when I feel I'm being used, ridiculed or ignored.  If I'm to follow Jesus, this must be my action, my work, even when my "neighbor" is not kind or loving.


"Lord Jesus, empower me to show love and kindness to all, especially to those with whom I have no natural  affinity.  Amen."


Love and kindness to all......ALL!  Is this really right?  In this day and age? How can we be kind or show love to another nation which hates us?  We call the U.S. a Christian nation, but we have others living here in peace who are fine citizens.  We have many others who belong to different faiths, and  we have lots of different types of Christians, as well.  All of us together are a great testimony of being the united of the United States. We definitely have our differences and our quarrels. But we have agreed to disagree peacefully in order to have unity. Staying united as One is our main purpose, and it takes a lot of work and consideration of one another.


Now the world about us is pressing upon us.  Some are insistent that only their way is perfection, and the rest of us are to be destroyed, and not only destroyed but destroyed with utter horror.  This, of course, brings out a terrible fear into our world as we stand in the way of this new movement.


Personally, I would rather die than give into the fear they delight in , but I am now old.  But my grandchildren are not old.  And their children are not old.  So, this world must hang onto our  Lord and Savior, our Jesus who died on a cross so we could live in Him. Living in Him is better than living in the fear of what others would have us be. I'm with Christ all the way! And I will show the world my love for Him in whatever way God will ask! And I will love my enemy..if it kills me!


Are you with me? O, help us, God, to do the difficult, if not the impossible.


Jo INMN

MY HEADS TOO SMALL FOR MY HAT! YEA!

Hebrews 12:7, 9b explains this strange title.  "Be patient when you are being corrected....Isn't it even better to be given true life by letting our Spiritual Father correct us?"


"I would surely like to be given true life but  being patient while I'm corrected, I find, is a hard one.  Yet, I've got to give it a go.  The writer, unknown according to scholars, has a lot of good things to say, but they are hard to hear.  Our granddaughter Jenna, when she was about 6 years old, loved to spell, but she would say, "Too hard!" when she couldn't figure out how to spell a word.  I know how it feels to find some correction I must make to be "Too hard!"


"Correction usually makes me feel like I've failed completely--in every way.  I hit bottom. Why that is, I don't know; I can only guess.  But, I simply must learn to take it and take it good-naturedly and patiently.  If I can just remember that God corrects those He loves.  And that He usually corrects them through comments of others. This is the way to "true life."  True life doesn't just mean being truthful, but it means accepting truth abut yourself with grace and humility.


"God, I am proud and stiff-necked about being corrected, an old so and so just like your Old Testament people.  But I want to humbly take correction, grin and accept it, and try again.  Root out that pride, Lord, through a zillion corrections, if necessary." 


And I thank you in advance for the day when I can bow my head at correction and agree.  "You are absolutely right," I will say. "And thanks for reminding me!"  


Jo INMN

BE STILL AND KNOW

Hebrews 6:1b says, "We shouldn't need to keep talking about why we ought to turn from deeds that bring death and why we ought to have faith in God."


OK, so I won't!


I am going to turn to happy things: getting something written that will please all our friends near and far at this coming great time of the year, the celebration of our Lord's birth. Yes. you guessed it:  Christmas Cards!  We'll try to get a picture taken to prove we're still alive! And let others know that we have moved--once again!


But with all of the notorious killings, gun use by inappropriate folks, and harsh words thrown about by those who we are supposed to choose for our nation's leadership, I think there should be some--a few--words to settle us down in a practical way.


We are called to love one another and love God.  I think loving God first, and always, helps us to love one another. Actually, loving God is an absolute to loving others. This is hard to remember when fear is upon us. So, I suggest we think of words short and sweet.  What do you think?


             "Be still and know that I am God."
                        " Be still and know that I am."
                                    "Be still and know."
                                               "Be still."
                                                         "Be."


By the time we finish repeating the above, we will no longer be afraid.  We will be One with God, holding His hand. Without fear....Without questioning whom we are to love....Without wondering who to worship.  God says, "Worship only me."  God says, "Love one another."


Remember:  "We" means everyone! "One another," means you and everyone else.  It might be hard to do, but with the help of God, WE CAN!


Jo INMN

WHEN I REMEMBER

"Philemon, verse 4 says, "When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God."


"These words of Paul as he wrote to his friend and co-worker for the Lord are important for us also to remember.  He says, "When I remember you in my prayers."  That means when God calls to our mind a person or a situation, we are to listen to His call and respond.  We are not necessarily to  pray in rote for everyone and every situation as a memorized list but in sincerity waiting for God's leading.  If it's important enough for God to bring it to our mind we are to be obedient servants and pray.


"This is really important to me, for through the years I've been blessed with many Christian friends that I  have prayed with, traveled with, laughed with, or cried with.  God knew that each and every one of them was important, and still is.  However, there are too many to pray for every day so I trust the Lord to bring to my mind those who are in need of prayer.  When someone asks me to pray for them, I tell  them, "I promise I will pray for you every time God brings you to my mind."  I can keep that promise.


"Lord Jesus, make my heart receptive for your bringing to mind those that need prayer or praise.  AMEN."


These words of Jerry are straight from his heart. But, I would add just a bit.  I know of many, usually women, who do pray from a list. Perhaps they are stay-at-home moms who have set aside a special prayer time for themselves and have made arrangements for their children during that time.  You can imagine the difficulty of trying to be quiet and pray for friends who have asked you to pray for them, while at the same time trying to be a good mom.  Nothing is perfect, so a list for promised prayers may help cut down the time needed for prayer.  God doesn't find fault when we pray. Either way, it's fine!! Just pray!


When I was a beginning pray-er and learn-er, God woke me up in the middle of the night to read the word and pray.  I was up each night for about an hour, say from two to three, and never missed the sleep! My heart was just bursting with joy in the Lord! I thank Him to this day for those nights!  I hope and pray you are comforted, too, by your own unusual prayer time!!


Jo INMN

FROM WHOM OUR STRENGTH COMES

 "In 2 Timothy 2:1A, it says: "You must let Christ Jesus make you strong." Paul writes to Timothy to encourage him.  Paul is in prison, speaking about his experience of Christ giving him strength.  If I ever pass anything on to another person about God, it would be this:  We don't gain strength without the power of Jesus.  Only God can give it to us.  I know this from past experience.  And I also know that to receive God's strength, the strength to do anything, does require something of you and me.


"First, it requires "belief". We must have faith that God will put strength in us for whatever task is ahead that He wills.  Have faith that Christ is more than willing and has the power to make us strong.  Believe it!  or forget it.


"Second, we must not look back to past moments where we lost our strength.  Stay positive, firm in your belief.  God will give the strength and gifts we need at the appointed time.  And pray.


"God, Everlasting Goodness, may I impart to others your desire to make us all strong in whatever way we need your strength.  I will not forget from whom my strength comes.  Amen."


Still helpful today..those words! Won't you join me in this prayer whenever you feel your strength wavering?


Jo INN

GIVING BLESSES THE GIVER

In 1 Timothy 6:10 it says, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to become rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains."


"This statement is often misquoted to say that money is the root of all evil.  Yet that is not at all what scripture tells us.   It is the love of money that causes our downfall because what we love we give our entire self to, forgetting and setting aside everything else.  When money is the center of our love and our life God is pushed out of the center and we begin down the path to catastrophe. The scripture says not only do we lose our faith focus in Jesus Christ, but we actually set in place the circumstances that will inevitably result in much pain to ourselves and our loved ones.


"(Jerry says), I must always remember that money is not evil in itself.  It is simply a tool, a means to an end.  Money can be used to be generous to help others in need, strangers or family, to pull them out of poverty.  Money is simply to be a vehicle for good, never my central focus.


"Lord Jesus, may I never put anything at the center of my life except my love for you, and may I keep everything else subordinate.  Amen"


These words and prayer, written long ago, still have great meaning today. Every family the world over desires to have money enough to keep their family healthy.  Sadly, this is not the case, even in our own country. Do you not think that God is so generous with those who love Him that they have at least a little they can give to those going through hardship and God does allow us to be in that position now and then.  I know, especially at Christmastime, folks think of other families and their needs. We also think of our favorite charities, and give a little extra.  Many can afford a lot; many just a little.  Whatever one gives to those who are in need is blessed, and the blessing continues around the circle  of love, until the giver is given the blessing most blessed.


May you and I receive a Giver's Blessing from God!


Jo INMN

IF I ONLY WAS A DOG!

"In Philippians 2:6 it reads, "Christ was truly God.  But he did not try to remain equal with God."  This verse says without question that Christ is God, yet somewhat disqualifies the first statement by saying He didn't try to say He was equal to God.  Being all human as well as God, Jesus seems a major impossibility, someone we can't really understand.  But he was 100% human with God tendencies while with humans and he was probably 100% God with God, but able to truly understand humans.  It's hard for my human brain to wrap around this, so maybe my being a dog might help.


"If I am a human that becomes a dog, I would be able to be both dog and human. Although I would look like a dog and bark like a dog, I would be able to understand and think like a human.  Yet, at the same time,  I would understand and act with the nature of a dog. If I did not act with the nature of a dog, other dogs would not want me around.  (And the common people loved having Jesus around, for He understood their needs.)


"God, I am not asking to become a dog, although it might be fun--just waiting around to be petted, sleeping in the sun, or racing to my bowl to eat.  Maybe, I might run away for mischief making and chase the birds.  Yet, I don't think trying to think like a dog has helped me to totally understand you, but I humbly accept all that you are in Jesus and am very glad you are forever Holy and good.  I love you, Father, and I love you, Son, and you too, Holy Spirit!  Amen."


God in Three Persons loves us all!  Amen.


Jo INMN

IN THE NAME OF JESUS

Thousands of years ago, the angel Gabriel stepped before a young woman named Mary in a town named Nazareth. Golden light lit up around this angel and Mary who stood dumbfounded in  awe and respect.  The angel told Mary that she would in the months that followed, carry and bear a son in a place called Bethlehem, and He would be named Jesus.  Mary said, "But I am not married and have not known a man!" But the angel went on to say that Mary would become pregnant by the Holy Spirit and her son would be known as the Son of God.


Mary did as she was told and sensed the Person of the Holy Spirit within her.  Her beloved friend and mate-to-be, Joseph,  found it hard to understand, but married Mary and in time they went off to find the village of Bethlehem, staying estranged from one another until after the Babe was  born.


I find it interesting that Mary did not quarrel with God regarding the birth of His Son.  She was honored, yet apprehensive that she be obedient.  And Joseph, too, loved God and although he felt frustrated as any male in love, he made no argument.


Both knew that the Lord had something important for them to do. And their obedience did not waver.


Today is Monday, Dec. 7th--a day most of us will never forget, a day most of us wish we had never had to witness it's iniquity---the bombing of Pearl Harbor by the Japanese--the first stroke for us  in World War II..  Today we are faced with another kind of war.  It is nothing like 1941.  This war is filled with individuals who hate.  They are not searching to take over our domain.  They are searching to take over God!! They may say their god is the true god. But it is a god of fear and disloyalty and treachery and lies.


Sunday, in our church, our beloved pastor told the story of God meeting with Mary and made arrangements for His Son, Jesus Christ, to be born.  This Son was to be all of what God the Father is, plus all that a human being is, and only God could accomplish this!  But, God needed a human couple to carry out His plan--a woman to be the Mother of God's child and a male to protect the woman and the child born, the Child of God, Son of the Holy Spirit. And Mary did not refuse. Nor did Joseph who protected both the mother and the child. The Son of God was born because two people obeyed out of love for God.


Now, here we are contemplating today's world.  Terrible things happening.  People are fearful, so much so they are buying terrible guns to return the terror. What will become of us?  What are we to do? Can we be as obedient to God's call as were Mary and Joseph?


Yes, we can!  The Holy Spirit is right with us, you and me!  And He is saying..."Follow me.  Follow in the steps of Mary.  Be obedient and listen.  Hear me and obey.  Trust and Believe.  Trust and Obey.  All will be well.  I am with you always even until the end of the days. Love one another.  Love brings peace.  Do not be afraid.  I will be with you always."


He is with us...always!  Do not be afraid.
Jo INMN

GIVE THANKS

Reading Ephesians 5:17,20 which says:  "So do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is...giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."


"These chapters in Ephesians describe Paul's hope for unity in the church.  Christians are not to be foolish, taking  on the actions of the world, but focus on doing the will of God in this world.  We are to be always in a state of giving thanks for the wondrous gift of grace in Jesus Christ, whether a situation is helpful for our lives or difficult or destructive, we always have God's grace available to us, therefore we must always give thanks.  "Always" means in every situation. This is a hard thing, as it's hard to thank God for something which has hurt us.  But, every hurt brings a healing which protects the past hurt from further pain, and for that we can give thanks.


"Whenever I begin to feel out of sorts with someone or something, Jesus calls on me to stop and give thanks with a sincere heart, for good does and will come from each situation eventually.


"Lord Jesus, I praise and give thanks to you for each day I can walk with you on this earth.  Amen."


Jerry, of course, wrote this.  But, it has my stamp of approval  on it, for it is true all the way.  I still need the reminder to myself that sometimes others hurt us unintentionally. And the words of Jesus at his death on the cross comes to me, "Forgive them, for they know not what they do." 


Thanks be to God for His teaching.
Jo INMN

A GIFT FOR GOD

Ephesians 1:6 tells us, "God wanted us to enter into the celebration of God's lavish gift-giving by the hand of God's blessed Son."


"Here we are entering the Christmas season and this beautiful verse pops out at me!  God has lavished incredible gifts upon us!  Paul wanted the Christians of Ephesus to be excited abut God's gifts and that excitement carries over to us in this time.  What are those gifts Paul is talking about?


"The Church itself is a gift.  trusting in God is a gift.  Love for God and one another is an  incredible gift.  The desire to obey is a gift.  Forgiveness? What a great gift!  Freedom is another.  Being free to choose God or not is, perhaps, God's most unselfish gift.  And then there are all of those individual gifts that make each of us who we are and yet mold us into the Church itself.


"There really is no end to God's gifts.  Just look around.  the world, created by God and given to us...all s eye candy.  Gift upon gift upon gift are ours to enjoy...and use.  And the use of them is up to us.  Now, what am I giving God this Christmas?"


Lord Jesus, you were the greatest gift of all.  And your Holy Spirit, as well.  May I utilize all you are and become a gift to you?  And, Lord, may I see others in this world, whether or not they are like me or entirely different, those that may even cause me harm, may I see each one individually as one whom you love. Amen.


Jo INMN

CHOSEN BY GRACE

Romans 11:5,6,29 tells us, "So, too, at the present time there is a remnant (of people)chosen by grace; it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise, grace would no longer be grace....for the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable."  Here, the Word tells us that God chooses us for Himself on the basis of the love we have for Him, rather than the works we try to do.


"Before Christ, the path of being right with God was to obey the laws and the commandments.  Each person was to work to be right with God by their own effort.  When Jesus came, He turned this concept upside down.  He said that no one comes to the Father unless the Father calls him.  That means, God alone by His grace chooses us irrevocable.  We can accept or reject His grace and His calling.


"I know that nothing I do, can on its own, keep me right or wrong with God.  He has called me to be His.  I've been chosen by Him to receive His grace through no merit of my own.


"Lord Jesus, your death and resurrection have once and for all paid the price for sin in me.  Praise you for calling me to be yours.  Amen."


Needing no addition or subtraction, the words are as true today as they have been for centuries!




Jo INMN

GOD'S CHOICE, MY ACCEPTANCE

Romans 9:11,12 says, "The Lord preferred Jacob to show that God makes God's own choices and that it wasn't because of anything Jacob or Esau had done."


"God has pity and mercy on anyone God chooses; we are not to question God.  In the case above Jacob was the younger twin.  The eldest was usually given the most honor in a family and would receive the blessing of the Father.  In this case, Jacob tricked his brother, Esau, into giving him the blessing.  God did not stop him.


We have each been given life and a purpose in that life.  Whatever our purpose, whether servant or king, we are to perform it with grace,  and God will be pleased. Think of the Pharaoh at the exodus of the Jews from Egypt.  God hardened his heart.  We don't really know why, other than to assume it was because it was important that God needed the Jews to truly want to get out of Egypt.  It was God's choice to have Pharaoh  stubborn.


I have been granted a kind, generous husband who loves God and also I have been granted children who love God, too.  My grand-children are numerous and hold the promise of faith to come and three great-grandchildren hold the same promise.  God has given this family gifts, talents and opportunities to use these gifts.  I do not have great riches or fame, but I am more rich than many by comparison and have more attention than I deserve.


God, I thank you for the reminder that my pride may over-reach what your plan is for me.  Let my mind and heart be cleansed from those aspirations which do not come from you.  Amen.


Hello, to all my blog friends!  And I hope these words are a help to you!


JO inMN

THE GREATEST GIFT

This is the month when we being to think about gifts.  In Romans 5:1 and 8, we hear about the greatest gift ever given. " Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ because......God proved His love for us in that, while we still were sinners Christ died for us."  Peace and love comes through Jesus Christ!


"To me this is the most overwhelming statement in all of history.  God loved us even when we were far away from Him, rejecting and denying Him.  He came to earth in human form to teach, heal and redeem a very lost and forlorn humanity.  God demonstrated once and for all that He deeply cares for the well-being of His creation.  In order to complete this offer, we must will ourselves to accept it without reservation and with absolute confidence.  That is what faith is--belief when it can't be measured or proven.


"God gave me, a sinner, the gift to turn my life away from a path without meaning to the way to come to Him to receive me.  I alone could make that step, as God would never force it.  This is the greatest part of faith.  God calls; we choose.  Keeping Faith is our job; and in doing it, Love and Peace are bestowed upon us by our wonderful God.


Praise you, Jesus, for these most wonderful gifts of all.  Amen.


Jo INMN

COULD OR WOULD?

 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SLIVERS IN THE CROSS OF CHRIST

Mark 8:34 and Job 22:21, "You must forget about yourself...Surrender to God All-Powerful."
A writing by Weisgram says, "We are called to carry our own cross.  That is the hardest thing, to carry our own true cross.  This is giving up--surrendering to God All-Powerful that which our human soul does not want to submit."


"I think my own cross is to submit to God my so-called "right" to defend myself against that which I perceive to be an offense, injustice, or insult by another person.  All  I can do is turn the situation over to God, for I  need God's help and His mercy, to be obedient to this submission. I hope there will be a loosening of that awful tie that binds my quick reactions and my defense mechanisms to my heart so that I will be able to carry my cross, this need to be defensive, with grace.


"God give me the heart to truly want to submit to you the rights to myself that I have for so long carried and coddled. Give me a sense of urgency to recognize my need to come to you and the discernment to do so.  I have faith in your help and thank you in advance of that help. Amen."


And Lord, on this Halloween Day of 2015, I also ask for your safety in the lives of the countless children out tonight on their search of candy.  And may they see more than goblins; may they see the hearts and smiles of those who love you. Amen.


Jo INMN

WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?

"Mark 8:27-29 says, "Jesus asked His disciples, "Who  do the people say that I am?" And they answered, "John the Baptist, or Elijah or a prophet."  Then Jesus asked His disciples, "But who do you say that I am?"  And Peter answered, "You are the Messiah."


"This is the fundamental question that Jesus asks of each one of us. Who do you say that I am? On this answer stands the pivotal questions of all of life. If we can't proclaim Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God,  the Redeemer of the world, nothing else matters.  There is no gray area here.  Jesus either is who he says He is or he is a farce and a liar of the greatest measure.


"My answer (Jerry's answer  and mine) to Jesus was without any hesitation.  "Jesus, you are the Messiah sent from God to redeem and bring forgiveness of sin and eternal life to me and to all the peoples of the world.  You are not a Messiah for a few select people, but for the entire world.


"Lord Jesus, You are God's chosen, the Messiah, chosen to redeem a broken world.  Amen."


Today, tomorrow and yesterday, Lord, you are the One.  This is what we say that you are.  You are the Messiah of the Scripture, and the Lord of our lives.  Thanks be to God.  Amen


JoINMN

THE UNIVERSAL LAW

Mark 4:24, "Listen carefully to what you hear!  The way you treat others will be the way you will be treated!"  This is the Universal Law.  If someone treats you badly in some particular way, look to see who you are treating in the same way.  If someone is gossiping about you, chances are you have gossiped about someone yourself!  If you are being treated unfairly, look to see who you are treating unfairly or have done so in the past.---The Universal Law.  At the same time the Universal Law works for good deeds, but it is less likely to be watched as closely, for good deeds are not to be done for the purpose of having them returned.


"God, give me the grace to examine myself so that I do not become a victim of my own thoughtless acts.  Help me to see when I have done wrong and repent, making amends to the person victimized.  Give me the grace to listen and be aware of hurtful acts and help me to center on you and your grace given to others.  Amen."


Written long ago, this lesson still applies to me today.  However, I have learned one thing more about  acts done wrongly, and treating someone  badly from the book MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST, by Oswald Chambers. We have been justified by faith for our wrongdoing.  We are born again and can have new beginnings solely because of the atonement of our Lord by His death on the cross. God Himself paid for our sinfulness.  Therefore, going to God when we treat someone wrongly
 and give thanks for God's atonement on our part, helps us to realize our imperfections and gives us grace for the one we may have hurt and grace for ourselves. We don't  beat up others nor do we beat up on ourselves.  Christ paid for our mistakes already. Praise His Holy Name!! Forgiveness all around.  Yet, sometimes it is up to us to say the words, "Forgive me!"


Yours, in the Forgiveness of God.
Jo INMN

QUIET PRAYER

Mark 1:35:  "Early in the morning after a packed day of healing and casting out demons, Jesus got up and went out to a deserted place, and there He prayed."


"Jesus knew that he needed to pray to the Father in a quiet place away from the noise and demands of people.  He knew that there would be large crowds wherever He went, and the way to prepare for that was with solitude and prayer.


"In the business and demands of life, this model teaches me that I must take time to be quiet and come before God in prayer.  When my gas tank is low, I go to the filling station for gas.  I don't go to the grocery or hardware store to fill my spiritual tank either.  I must go to a solitary place, be silent and listen for God's leading.


Lord Jesus, what a wonderful gift you've given us with the need for quiet, listening prayer.  Amen.
(This prayer was made years ago by my husband, and he still finds it useful today.)


It reminds me of a year ago when my daughter's husband came home about dinner-time and confessed that he had been fired.  Both of them were in shock.  But our daughter began to pray.  And while she prayed, her husband smiled at her, grateful for her faith. She went to the Lord and the two of them remained there all year through one disappointment after another.  But God had a lot to teach.  And He taught not only that wonderful family, but he taught all their outside family, their neighbors, their friends and many on Facebook. God can be trusted and He uses each of us in our own circumstance.  He did not start the circumstances.  But, He saw them through their circumstances...Royally. We are His children; we are princes and princesses to Him.


Thank you, Lord, for being with us in our darker moments.   Amen.


Jo INMN

WE WANT MIRACLES!

Mark 1:45 says, "So Jesus kept to out-of-the-way places, no longer able to move freely in and out of the city.  But people found him and came from all over."


"The people came from all over, desiring healing.  Jesus wasn't against healing.  He healed repeatedly, undoubtedly following God's direction, but He had teaching to do. Yet the throngs of people found Him, coming from all over, saying, "Heal me!  Heal me!"  They weren't as interested in what He taught.  They just wanted to be healed.


"Jesus chose the mountainside, the boat on the water, the olive gardens, or any other place where He could catch His breath and teach.  Yet they came.  And Jesus loved them. He told them stories, stories that taught.  But, most of what He said went over their heads.  It was His miracles they wanted.  The Pharisees however, are the ones who started the real trouble.  They wanted Jesus to stop with His stories and His miracles. And, above all, they didn't want to hear that He came from the Father.


"How are we different?  We're not.  My first prayer that I can remember came when I was about thirteen, "Lord Jesus, change me.  I don't like who I am!"  And I prayed that it would be so.  I, too, wanted a miracle."  (From my notes of an earlier teaching.)


But, Jesus saw fit that I learn what He was teaching me.  He opened my heart to the Bible and to studying it.  I read daily and wrote on what I read. I began to feel less  sad about my short-comings and grateful for the goodness God was trying to place within me.  God pointed out that I longed to be perfect, for my imperfections seemed so monumental to me.  He reminded me that Christ died for my imperfections, my sins. Therefore, He saw me as without sin!


I guessed it was about time I saw myself the same way.  Now, this is not easy for me, and I still struggle with it, but God insists.  And I am trying.  I'm doing my best to practice what he teaches.  And that will be a miracle!!


How about you?  Lord Jesus, Help us to be wise about our imperfections, and willing to change that which you reveal to us.  Amen.


Jo INMN

I AM WILLING

In Acts 21:14 we read, "Since we could not get Paul to change his mind, we gave up and prayed, "Lord, please make us willing to do what you want."


"Paul and Paul's associates were receiving different messages from the Holy Spirit.  How can this be?  Paul was insistent upon going to Jerusalem.  His friends were saying, "Do not go.  You will be harmed there."  Both sides were firm in their beliefs concerning Paul's trip.  When he would not give in, the disciples gave up and prayed to be willing to do what God wanted.  Were they praying for themselves--or for Paul?  They were praying for God's will to be revealed to all.


"The important fact is they gave up trying to control by convincing Paul and instead prayed.  Not just prayed.  PRAYED.  Just praying suggests that praying is a lesser thing. NOT SO!  Praying is the most important thing a disciple can do.  Whatever is difficult,, burdensome, unfair or seemingly impossible to see clearly, must be placed under prayer.  Only God has the answer, the direction, the timing or the reason.  And so we pray.


"God, I don't completely understand, so I am depending upon you.  Whatever you show me, Lord, whatever you desire of me, Lord, make me willing to accept, or do, or wait upon , that your perfect will might be done.  Amen.


I am still praying this prayer. This old world can become so confusing, as evil seems to lurk around all of our corners.  And what seems  right may not be.  What seems wrong...can it possibly be right?  And so we come to you with our hope in you.  Perhaps this is what you are desiring.  We trust in you.  Please guide the walks we walk, the talk we talk, and the prayers we make to you.  We pray that you are guiding and leading us to the good of your Holiness in the world.  Amen


Jo INMN

SHARE THE SPOTLIGHT!

Job 1:5 reads, "The wisest thing one can do is to keep quiet and listen." Job had such a time with his friends!  All they wanted to do is give advice, without any sympathy for him at all.  So, he turned it around and suggested they keep quiet!  And listen! And they did, finally.


I give myself this same advice.  No matter where I go, if I come in contact with others, I try to stay quiet about myself. But I ask questions of them, like, "How is your family doing?"  What's the most exciting thing that happened to you or your family this past year?  "How  is the new job/work/baby doing?  Are you still enjoying life?  Have you got a busy winter planned? People love to answer questions about their life and their family.  It's an easy way to get people to talk about themselves, and the best way to encourage, support, and show them you are a friend.


Sometimes folks need to unload what is bothering them.  If so, let them!  You won't have to carry their load very long, just long enough to let them know you care.  And finally, let them know they can call you if they ever want to "kick the cat."  You'll listen.  (Remember this, Jo!)


Lord Jesus, keep me from talking about myself when I meet a new person. Help me think of ways to ask questions of another's life that he or she may know I'm interested.  Help me to be a true friend that does not need to be spot-lighted.  Amen.

ONE DAY LATER.......

Yes, only one day later I am rejoicing because I hold the hand of Jesus! And all because of a little book called JESUS CALLING! Today, I write holding Jesus' hand.  I am enjoying His blessings and trust in His goodness regardless of the situation in the world.  Yesterday, I wrote out  of fear.  Today I write out of hope and something else...the certainty of God's goodness!


 What we usually see as goodness, you and I, is not always a perfect picture of goodness.  What we may see as hardship and causes us fear, is often God's goodness for the world in its entirety. Hardship is part of the life on this earth.  Hardship helps us in the long run as we find Christ through our need.  So, when part of the world is under hardship, God is at work there, bringing goodness after the hard times which is important for those in the process of finding God.  We suffer, we work, we learn to pray in our suffering, and God answering, reveals Himself.


The world can be a terrifying place, and at times, we resent it.  We rebel against it.  We may not be looking for God at work there, for it looks the opposite of control.  But chaos may be a needed factor for any part of the world before God can be revealed, and like Job, we lose heart.  Fear encroaches upon us and the world seems to be a terrifying place.


If we really have what God has already given us, hope in Him and trust in His goodness, we must remind ourselves that God works His work in spite of our rebellious  tendencies to fear and distrust.  His Spirit is aware of our attitudes.  Would not God prefer to have us trust Him?  Would not God prefer to have us believe that He is in charge and have reasons and purposes we may not yet understand?


We are not very good at understanding our own losses or thwarted hopes. How can we begin to understand losses going on in other parts of the world? Wherever losses occur, here on our doorstep or across the ocean somewhere, God is in charge.  Praying for those in another part of the world is the best answer we will ever find.  Trusting in the work of God there will give us hope for our own time of hardship.


Now, hear from JESUS CALLING! "The best response to loss or thwarted hopes is praise.  The Lord gives and the Lord takes away.  Blessed be the name of the Lord. Remember that all good things--your possessions, your family and friends, your health and abilities, your time--are gifts from Me.  Instead of feeling entitled to all my blessings, respond to them with gratitude.  Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you, but never let go of My hand!"


So, whether our resentment may come from personal hardship or what we fear is happening beyond our shores, we are advised well to continue to PRAISE GOD. And be prepared to let go of anything taken from us, bur never let go of Christ's hand!  Trust in Him, always.


I am holding His hand as I perceive my world and the world around me.  I will be at peace because of trust in Him. Are you with me?


Jo INMN