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B
e encouraged by the faithfulness of
the Lord.
"This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope...his compassions fail not. They are new every morning:" Lamentations 3:21-23
May the faithfulness of God be your encouragement for today and for all your tomorrows!
Greetings in this new year! With it will come new
challenges, opportunities, and changes. I pray that for each of you that it will
be a year of personal and spiritual growth and filled with God's surprises and
strength for each day. It's been awhile since I've written; because of computer
problems I couldn't e-mail from my computer. Another reminder that we aren't to
depend on anything, but on God alone. A closer walk with Jesus, trusting God no
matter what happens, is my desire as I face the year ahead.
The last few weeks of 2004 I read the book of Job
containing his experience with adversity. In this letter I want to share with
you the messages God gave me.
Don't
try to explain God; you will fall far short. (chapter 40) You might even speak
badly about God. (42:7) Have you noticed how God gets blamed for things? How He
is misunderstood? Even as I try to see the larger picture in the framework of
the great controversy between God and Satan I don't have answers for many
things. The bottom line is that God is
trustworthy and in control. What He allows serves His plan and purpose. He will
bring good out of bad. If for no other reason trials can draw us closer to God
as we realize our need.
Today
we discuss and philosophy, as did Job and his friends, concerning
how God deals with the wicked and the righteous. Disasters and destruction
occurs and everyone tries to explain God's hand in what happened. We ask the
same questions Job did. Where is God when the wicked hurt and abuse innocent,
helpless people? Why do the wicked prosper and God's children suffer? Is God
really fair, just, and loving? (see chapter 24)
In Job's suffering, as he cried out to God, I saw a glimpse of what Jesus bore as Satan endeavored to get Him to give up His trust in God. Jesus became human so He can intimately understand our suffering and be a true Friend to empathize with us. Job wanted answers. He wanted someone to be his mediator. (chapter 9) He may not have realized his position with God in Christ, but Job did have a Mediator. However, Jesus didn't. None stood by Him. No one could take the burden of sin from Him. He cried out, "My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?" It's okay to ask why, but God wants us to trust Him even when we don't have answers to our questions. One of the loudest messages that continued sounding in my ears throughout the story of Job was "Don't Judge!" If I don't have something encouraging to say in pointing others to hang onto Jesus hand, that He can be trusted, that He understands, and He is faithful to keep His promises then I need to remain silent. Pointing out supposed sins to others, serving up false explanations of how God is, blesses no one. My personality bent is to be critical and judgmental of others, not that I want to be, but it's within me. God is teaching me to be silent and pray for others, letting Him do the speaking. He doesn't make messes of situations or hurt feelings like I am prone to do.
It seems to me that as a community of believers we are more in tune to the physical needs of others than the emotional and spiritual. It is the anguish of spirit that is more painful than physical suffering. Just ask Jesus. Providing a piece of pottery to scrape the pus seems to be the sort of encouragement we usually give, rather than embracing our sister and mingling our tears with hers. Like Job's friends I may spout off a Bible promise and say, "Just hang in there." Wouldn't it be better to acknowledge that I don't have any answers, that I came to just sit and listen? There's nothing comforting about being alone, but it's better than having friends who are miserable discouragers! I have never been so depressed that I wished I'd never been born or that God would just let me die, but many, like Job, have. If you are struggling within your spirit and long for release, I encourage you to tell Jesus everything, all your hurt and pain, and trust Him to bring something good out of your situation. In every trial I have found a faithful Friend in Jesus, and He has never let me down!
After reading Job's words in chapter 13:20-22 I wrote in my journal, "Even when I don't understand the trials I'm going through, I, like Job, desire two things. 'Don't leave me. Don't let me be afraid to keep talking with You. Through whatever I face I want to do so together with you.' It was this union with His Father that sustained Jesus, and when He could not feel His Father's presence because of the darkness caused by our sins it broke His heart." Jesus has promised never to leave me, nor forsake me and He invites me to come boldly to His throne of grace in my times of need. (Heb. 13:5 & 4:16)
Another life changing thought comes out of the book of Job. "There is none
righteous. No, not one." (Rom. 3:10) All our good works will not save us, nor
recommend us to God. No matter how many good deeds we may do for others it won't
give us enough points to get into heaven. Only God is righteous. Jesus is the
only righteous man who lived, and accepting Him
is the only way of receiving the gift of eternal life. When Job realized this
fact he said, "I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes." (42:6) Through his
terrible experience, when God allowed Satan access to him, Job continued to
trust God and in the end testified, "I have heard of You by the hearing of the
ear, but now my eye sees You." I want to know God intimately, and if it takes
trials and troubles for me to "see" Him, and myself as I really am, then my
prayer is, "when He has tried me may I come forth as gold." (23:10)
The ending picture of Job's story is restoration. God abundantly blessed him materially as well as giving Job another family of 7 sons and 3 daughters. I find it interesting that his three daughters are mentioned by name, were given an inheritance along with their brothers, and described as women of outstanding beauty. This is the ending picture in the story of the great controversy. God will restore what Satan has destroyed, giving us blessings beyond measure. As daughters of God we have an inheritance and a home with Jesus! Hallelujah!
My
prayer for you this year I take from the inspired words of Peter, "Blessed be
the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy
has begotten us again to a living hope through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and
undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in
heaven for you. . . . In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little
while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness
of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is
tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of
Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 1:3-7)
With
hope,
Barbara
Have any of you ever had your plans rearranged; or completely changed? When I was 10 years old I decided to be a missionary nurse when I grew up. Since I was living in Chiapas, Mexico I saw the need for medical help and health evangelism, and so my goal became to get my education and return to work with the Indian people I loved. I planned to marry a doctor and work as a team in service for others. That was the planned agenda I had for my life. I did take a two year nursing course and got my RN. However, the man I grew to love was not training to be a doctor, but a mechanic. That’s okay, I thought, because he is the practical type of person that is really needed in the mission field--just like my Daddy, who could repair anything from practically nothing. Together we planned to spend some time at the mission station my parents founded in southern Mexico.
We were married in May, right after our graduation from college, and lived in the camper on wheels which we’d be driving to Mexico with supplies for the mission. We left the first of October on an adventure neither of us will ever forget. I was heading “home” but my husband was leaving “home”, the place he was born and raised. I could speak Spanish, but he had only a small vocabulary and wasn’t the social type to just jump in and learn. My Daddy asked me to teach health and English classes to the academy students, and I felt that I had reached my goal. I also went on a couple fly out clinics and helped deliver several babies. I conducted a class for young mothers, which I enjoyed more than seeing patients. My hubby, however, struggled to fit in. He worked at gardening and did some mechanical work for people, but mostly he felt lost and left out. My Daddy was gone most of the time on flights and business for the mission. If Irdene could have gone with him more, and been included as a son in his life, his outlook might have been different. As it was, when we left after 4 months to return to the states and his job at Public Works for the City of Collegedale he never looked back. Being a missionary wasn’t his calling.
So, my life plans had to change. I outwardly adjusted my life to fit with my husband’s, but my inner self struggled through the years to be content. As my brothers and their families and childhood friends served in Africa, South America, and Mexico there were times I shed tears, longing to join them and do for God where my heart was calling me. When my oldest daughter turned 7 I begin home schooling, and my heart affirmed that teaching was what I enjoyed doing. For 15 years I taught my children along with my career of motherhood and home making. As the years passed I finally surrendered my childhood dream and learned to be content living in one place. The last few years the Lord began showing me the mission field of my community and has led me into avenues of ministry where I can bless others.
Now major change has happened to me again. My children are grown and my teaching career is over. I haven’t any major plans for my life in this world, only to be faithful day by day to what God calls me to do. My focus has changed through the years from following my plans, to making no plans for myself but being open to God’s plans for me. I’m trusting in God’s guidance. While I’m longing for personal fulfillment I’m also committed to His plans for my life. And for my kids. Yes, and my husband.
Presently I’m reading through the book of Acts, and this morning I was contemplating how God directed Paul’s life. Even when it seemed Satan would defeat his missionary work, as he enraged the Jews to where they wanted to kill him, God was in control of His servant’s life. He gave Paul the opportunity to speak before governors and kings as His witness. While Paul was in prison he wrote to the churches letters of instruction and encouragement, which has had greater audiences through the centuries than Paul preached to in Asia on his missionary journeys.
God’s plans are best. Perfect. Jesus followed day by day His Father’s plans for His life. He is my example. I’ve discovered an amazing thing about God and His way of working. Even when I have chosen to follow my plans and done my own thing He has taken the mess I made and used the circumstances to make something good. He reminds me, “Commit your works to me, and your thoughts will be established. I will lead and guide you in the way you should go.” (Proverbs 16:3; Psalms 32:11)
Looking back on His leading in my life I am happy to be married to a farmer rather than a doctor, to have been a teacher rather than a nurse, and to live in one place while raising our children. I can testify that God has blessed me abundantly.
God’s Daughter,
Barbara
One can’t enter a store in February without becoming aware of a day called Valentine’s. Flowers, cards, and candy beckon the buyer to purchase a gift for their sweetheart. I usually write my husband a note or bake him some treat rather than buy a gift. What amazes me is that he can deliver ivy to florist shops all day around this date and never acknowledge that I’m special to him on Valentine’s Day! Any of you women relate? Gifts just isn’t his love language, so I don’t think it enters his head to bring me anything. I’m learning to accept that about my husband, and look for the ways he does show me that I’m loved. (For the record, he did give me flowers in a vase one year!)
I think there is a need in every women’s heart to be affirmed as special by their loved one—especially if they didn’t receive this as a child by their parents. No, I don’t need flowers that will die (nor do I want my hubby to spend money on expensive roses), I certainly don’t need chocolate hearts, and cards don’t always say what I long to hear. I do need to know I am his one and only and that he loves me above and before anyone else. There are some of you who are widowed, divorced, or never married who may struggle with this “sweetheart day” passing without those words and acts of endearment that you long for.
I have discovered that my Jesus is the Person who will never let me down and will always be there for me. He is my Beloved and I am His! He tells me, “I have loved you with an everlasting love. I have drawn you to Myself with loving kindness.” (Jer.31:3) Jesus whispers to me every day words of love and affirmation, telling me of my value to Him. He fills my love cup until it runs over.
I awoke early this morning from a bad dream, and as I lay there thinking about what it could mean and praying away the fear that tried to surface, Jesus told me that it’s okay. After talking with Him I was able to go back to sleep, and when I awoke later it was with the realization that Jesus is my soul mate Friend with whom I can share everything and be understood. I am emotionally secure in Him, which is a wonderful feeling of comfort and peace. Just this morning He reminded me, “You are of more value to me than many sparrows. I see and know all about you, and still love you!” Later during my quiet time I read this assuring promise. “All who have put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness will stand before Him as chosen, faithful and true. Satan has no power to pluck them out of the hand of the Saviour. Not one soul who in penitence and faith has claimed His protection will Christ permit to pass under the enemy’s power.” (Prophets and Kings page 587) This thought reminded me of Christ’s words. “I give you eternal life, and you shall never perish nor be taken out of my hand.” (John 10:28, my paraphrase) “I have graven you upon the palms of My hands,” is another note of affirmation from my Beloved.
Our husbands can fail to meet our expectations, or you may not have someone special to share with you. I invite you to look for a love note from Jesus this Valentine’s Day and quietly listen for His personal words of love. You might begin by reading Isaiah 43:1.
And if you do have a sweetheart, tell him in your own way how special he is to you and how much you love him, not just at Valentine’s but every day.
With love, Barbara
I want to share with you this article I wrote some time ago as I contemplated Jesus ministering to me with His loving hands. May His embrace hold each of you today, is my prayer. With love, Barbara
JESUS’ HANDS
The Creator of the universe purposefully scooped together a pile of dirt, fashioning it with His hands into a perfect being. After breathing life into his mouth God reached down, took Adam’s hand in His, and helped him to his feet. Later that day He formed a woman with His hands, presenting her to Adam as his companion. Often the Creator returned to the garden home He had designed for Adam and Eve, reaching out His hands in friendship and blessing. When they sinned He showed them His love as with His hands He fashioned garments from animal skins to cover their nakedness.
The Savior of the universe silently left His home; His place on the throne was empty. In a mystery too deep to understand He slipped into the womb of Mary. As He developed, tiny buds for hands formed, and then fingers with which he grasped the cord connecting His small body to the life blood of His chosen mother. Perhaps Jesus sucked His thumb. Following birth Jesus grasped Mary’s finger in His little fist. Baby hands reached toward her smiling face. Often Jesus put His small hand into the larger ones of His parents, depending on them for help and security.
In childhood and youth Jesus worked with His hands, learning from Joseph how to carve and cut wood to make yokes for oxen, or nailing boards together into furniture. His were helping hands, reaching out to the poor and suffering of His hometown. They were kind hands, giving hands, loving hands. In prayer Jesus lifted His hands to His Father, to receive that He might give.
In accomplishing His mission on earth Jesus employed His hands in constant service to others, extending them in blessing to those He loved, giving them all they would accept. To the sick and suffering Jesus reached out His hands to heal, touching lepers, the blind, and the lame. Children were drawn by His hands, comforted by His gentleness, and held in His embrace. With His hands Jesus broke bread to feed hungry multitudes. With hands outstretched over the stormy sea, He commanded the waves to cease.
In Gethsemane Jesus clutched the dewy ground with His hands as He felt the presence of His Father being withdrawn. Those strong, gentle hands were roughly nailed to a wooden beam, stilled but not stopped. Even as Jesus’ hands were fastened securely to the cross, they were in the very act of giving, touching, embracing. It wasn’t the nails that kept Jesus hands held in that all encompassing embrace, it was love. Stretched out to the world those hands, both human and divine, invite all to come and accept Him.
Today before God’s throne Jesus holds His hands up to His Father, hands scared because of sin, and prays for me. In blessing He reaches downward touching my heart, holding my hands in His, hugging me. I know they are strong, for they hold me securely. I know they are gentle, because they sooth my hurts.
When Jesus comes to take me home to live with Him forever I will see His hands, those hands which minister unceasingly. I want to take His scared hands in mine, and in gratefulness for all they have done for me, I want to kiss them.
Dear Sisters in
Christ,
Spring greetings! Flowers and showers have come to
renew the land, and I hope you are blessed today with the beauty of spring.
This morning I read this verse from 2 Corinthians 8:9, “You know the grace of
our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became
poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” I remember a day years
ago when this verse “jumped out” at me. I was feeling sorry for myself. For
months I’d not been able to buy anything for myself or the kids, not even a
book. It took every penny to pay the bills and buy food. We lived on a small
income, but after purchasing a used car when we thought we had enough money,
only to discover I’d made a $500 (or was it $300) math mistake in our check book
records, we were struggling to recover. (It took us a whole year!) That day God
spoke to me through this verse of scripture, and I realized I wasn’t poor, but
exceedingly rich. I may not have had money, but I had Jesus and all the riches
of heaven. That thought put an entirely different perspective on my state of
being poor.
Jesus’ grace enriches my life. The Greek word for grace
is charis and means graciousness. In the spiritual sense it’s the divine
influence upon the heart and it’s reflection in the life. (Strong’s Concordance)
Grace is a part of God’s character, reaching outward from Himself as a divine
influence on the hearts of those who are open to accept this gift. Jesus’
graciousness embraces the world in one overwhelming act of self-sacrificing
love. Jesus became poor that I might be rich! What an exchange! I’m reminded of
the words of a song. “He left the splendor of heaven, knowing His destiny, was
the lonely hill of Golgotha, there to lay down His life for me. If that isn’t
love!” In Romans 5:8 I read, “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that
while we were still sinners Christ died for us.”
I can’t imagine the glory and beauty of a perfect
heaven where Jesus was honored and worshiped by countless of His created beings.
He shared the throne with His Father, but humbled Himself and left behind His
glory and power and became a poor peasant baby. Despised because of the
circumstances of His birth, scorned and mocked, Jesus lived not only in poverty
in the environment of His home but was treated poorly. Not until we view
Christ’s home above, and enter into the glory He shares with His Father, will we
be able to appreciate his condescension.
What are the riches Jesus shares with those who accept His
gift of salvation? Eternal life. A place in heaven with Jesus. “But God, who is
rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead
in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and
hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in
Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his
grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7 From the
treasure house of God’s blessings we are given all we need by Jesus. “But my God
shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Phil. 4:13 “In the plan of God, all the riches of heaven are to be drawn upon by
men. Nothing in the treasury of divine resources is deemed too costly to
accompany the great gift of the only begotten Son of God. "As many as received
him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe
on his name." Christ was empowered to breathe into fallen humanity the breath of
life. Those who receive him will never hunger, never thirst; for greater joy
than that found in Christ there can not be.
Study the words spoken by the Saviour from the mount of
blessing. How the divine nature shone through his humanity as his lips uttered
the benedictions upon those who were the objects of his mercy and love. He
blessed them with a fullness that showed that he was drawing from the
inexhaustible store of the richest treasures. The treasures of eternity were at
his command. The Father committed the riches of heaven to him, and in the
disposal of them he knew no bound. Those who accept him as their Saviour, their
Redeemer, the Prince of Life, he acknowledges before the heavenly host, before
the worlds unfallen, and before the fallen world, as his peculiar treasure.” (by
Ellen White, General Conference Bulletin 1899) Whow! I not only am rich in
Christ, I am treasured by Him! The peace, joy, and love Jesus gives me far
exceeds any wealth of this world.
Although poverty may be my lot on earth, I am the daughter of
the King and an heir to the riches of God. His grace is sufficient for me!
With thanks for His riches,
Barbara
I’m enjoying the flowers blooming in my yard—lilac, dogwood, and azaleas. After the drab colors of winter the bright ones of spring touch my soul in a vibrant way. Flowers in bloom give me joy, and hope. The other night I sat on the bed by my granddaughter reading her bedtime stories. One was the account written for children about Ellen White’s first vision. The story described various scenes of heaven--lovely flowers, beautiful trees, and gorgeous fruit. I picture heaven as a land of eternal spring.
Now-a-days I notice little flower decorated crosses beside roads, sometimes with the name of a loved one who died in that spot written on them. I see dead animals which were hit by cars strewn every few miles. Usually I don’t dwell on the unfortunate critters, nor count the crosses marking another death, but the other day I thought about loss, suffering, and sorrow while out on the roads. I wish for the day when God will make all things new, and there will be no more death or tears. I long for the day of eternal spring.
God’s plan for His children on planet earth was garden homes where companionship was enjoyed in an environment of peace and security. I can’t imagine what Eden was like, but my Father tells me that one day He will start over in this world and recreate. We’ll go back to His original plan where pain and suffering will no longer exist. No accidents will happen. No one will be homeless or hungry. Families will be happy. Relationships will be wonderful. Everyone can be trusted. Work will satisfy and be enjoyable, and I won’t get tired. Neither will I have to pay taxes. Time won’t matter. Best of all, Jesus will move His home to this earth and live forever as our King. That will be eternal spring.
In this time when my flowers bloom briefly, then fade and fall, God’s word abides forever. His words to me are faithful and true. I read in Isaiah 35 of a time when the desert will be full of blooms, and the waste places green from streams of water. Healing will happen and rejoicing will be heard everywhere. “A highway shall be there, and a road which shall be called the Highway of Holiness. . . The redeemed shall walk there, and the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” While these words speak of that time of eternal spring, I believe they also tell me of what God wants to do for me spiritually. He wants my life to be His beautiful flower garden. God is into taking the desert of empty hearts and pouring streams of His living Spirit into them causing new life to grow. Even today my God puts a song of praise on my lips and joy in my heart as He calls me to walk with Him. As I discover the beauty of His character I can enjoy the graces of eternal spring in my life every day.
This morning I read another passage of God’s unfailing promises. In Zephaniah there is a message for the remnant people of God and I am encouraged by His words. “Sing, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O Israel! (Put your name there.) Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away your judgments, He has cast out your enemy. The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst. You shall see disaster no more. . . The mighty One will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will quiet you with His love. He will rejoice over you with singing.” (3:14-17)
Clouds of sadness may cover the sun. Difficulties arise. Pain is a part of life because of sin. Flowers bloom briefly and then die. It won’t always be like this. So remember, when hard things happen, rest in God’s unfailing love. Listen to God singing about you. Look for the flowers along life’s pathway. (Even in winter I’ve seen them.) And never forget, one day very soon Jesus is coming to take us to His home where it will be springtime forever.
His child, Barbara
This morning while I was watering in our greenhouses I begin thinking about all that has gone wrong with our ivy crop. We have whole sections where the leaves died rather than rooting. Three of our four houses were affected by problems we had with 2 of the heaters during the winter, causing many of our stock baskets to loose leaves (carbon monoxide we think) and not grow properly. Even though my husband sprays regularly with pesticides the microscopic spider mites continue to flourish and destroy our ivy. Ever since the first of the year something has been causing leaves to get brown on the tips. For weeks I’ve been scraping for cuttings, and now I’m also scrounging to find enough runners to keep sticking ivy to grow. A whole section of younger stock baskets I hung up this winter are not growing, and many have turned yellow. We’ve about decided that several bales of our dirt must have had something in them causing the leaves to turn brown and affecting this section of stock. Besides the discouraging circumstances with growing, one of our largest garden center customers is buying in ivy from elsewhere and some weeks gets nothing from us. Oh, and if I leave the ivy business behind, one look at our blueberry bushes and I wonder if we’ll have a crop. Some disease or something has caused whole branches of blooms to turn brown and dry up, before the cold weather which probably got some more. The tube roses we planted early in the garden house didn’t come up for weeks, and those we left in the ground to be first mostly rotted. Leaving farming behind, I’ve had personal problems, family challenges, church concerns, and when I look at the world and the pain and hurt so many are suffering from, it’s enough to be pretty down about.
But wait! This is suppose to be an encouragement letter, not a pity party complaining one! Actually, and honestly, I am not discouraged. I am not down. I am not upset. And I am peaceful and happy. Know why? ‘Cause my happiness isn’t based on the circumstances of my life, but on Who owns my life. I just shared the above knowing that many of you have things that are far from perfect in your lives, and we could all focus and lament about them, but life is much more joyful if we praise God instead.
So, let me share another side of my recent life. Two weeks ago on a Sabbath morning as we were leaving for church my husband remarked to me, “I wonder what got on our greenhouses last night? Looks like claw marks all over and there are holes in 3 of the houses. Seems like some big Bobcat climbed around on them last night. It has me puzzled!” In the church foyer friends greeted us and asked, “Did you get hail at your house last evening? They were as big as golf balls!” The mystery was solved—hail is what hit our greenhouses. We were at church for a meeting when the storm hit and we didn’t know about what had transpired. On Monday Irdene called and ordered special tape and when it arrived he went to patching. Only in a few places were both layers torn. Ironically, the house with the oldest plastic that we plan to replace this fall wasn’t touched! From a neighbor we learned that less than two miles from us the ground was literally covered with these huge icy hailstones and realize that if our property had not been on the edge of the cloud we’d be out of business today. That hail would have torn our greenhouses to shreds and flattened our plants. There would be no ivy to sell! I can praise God, because it’s His business and He’s looking out for it. Trials come, but I see God with me in them, blessing, sustaining, and caring.
Habakkuk writes words of faith, “Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls—yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation!” (3:17,18) I can paraphrase this to fit my situation and say with Habakkuk, I will trust God no matter what. Isn’t this the experience we need?
I believe we are at the very door of the end of time with the time of trouble just around the corner. It is not on the works of our hands that we can depend. Only on God. In those times when I don’t see His hand at work, will I still trust? When things go wrong will I look to God or blame others? I have the choice; to sing praises to God while I water, or focus on the loss.
We have much beautiful ivy, and there have been many cases sold. Our back fuel bill for winter heating has been paid. Rows of young stock baskets are looking good. We got a new customer today. But if we lost it all tomorrow it would be okay, because it’s God’s and we’re just caretakers. He’s always supplied our needs.
Another thought just came to me, something Jesus said years ago but how true it is today. “The harvest is ripe and ready, but the laborers are few.” Sometimes when I look around I see what seems to be unprofitable and unfit in the “field”. I could become discouraged when I see the mites of sin eating away at lives, destroying the foliage that God designs to grow. Salvation is Jesus’ work. I’m just a laborer with Him. Maybe I should focus on the miracles of growth that I do see, and even amid what seems a loss perhaps some “cuttings” will take root and there will be a plant in God’s garden above that I have cared for.
May God bless each of you today and it’s my prayer that your focus will be on His blessings.
Your Friend, Barbara
I’ve been reading some great, good news and I must share it! Jesus is not ashamed to call me His sister! He identifies with me in my temptations, my weaknesses, and my trials. Although sinless, Jesus lived as a human here on earth so He could know first hand what it is like. He identifies with me and relates to my experiences. This morning during my study time I got a larger picture of what Hebrews 2:11 is saying. Want to guess where? In Matthew 1:1-17 where Jesus’ genealogy is recorded. Usually just the fathers and sons are mentioned in the Bible lists, but here I found several women’s names. Not just women, but sinners.
Tamar, the daughter-in-law of Judah, was widowed twice over, than set aside without the fulfillment of Judah’s promise to give her to his next son. So she schemed up a plan and played the part of a harlot. Judah’s wife had died and he went to bed with Tamar. She conceived twins and one of the boys, Perez, is in the genealogy of Jesus.
Rahab was a harlot living in Jericho, who accepted the power of God as real and desired salvation. When Jericho was destroyed Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father’s household, and all that she had. She lived with the Israelities and married Salmon. They had a son named Boaz.
Ruth, a foreigner from Moab, married an Israelite man who soon died, leaving her a widow. Choosing to leave her people, and follow the God of her mother-in-law, Ruth returned to Bethlehem with Naomi. God’s plan for Ruth included marriage to Boaz and their baby boy Obed grew up to be King David’s grandpa.
Bathsheba isn’t mentioned by name, but it reads “her who had been the wife of Uriah”. She was the mother of Solomon, and thus in the linage of Christ. She did as David wished, was then widowed, and her son died in infancy. Despite the mistakes of her life God blessed her with a special son who became the wisest and richest king of Israel.
As I read these women’s names, finally coming to Mary, Jesus’ mother, I thought about how Jesus isn’t ashamed to be related to these women, who include harlots. This passage speaks to me of how Jesus identifies with fallen humanity and the desperate needs for love, acceptance, and a man to care for a woman. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” What a provision! What a promise!
Jesus is touched by the feelings of our infirmities; He sympathizes with our weaknesses. (Heb. 4:15)
I read in Psalm 103:11-14 “For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”
Yes, God understands. That’s why He sent His only Son to be our Saviour.
Not only does Jesus relate to me, He loves me. So does His Father. The glorious good news is that when I accept Jesus as my Saviour I am adopted by His Father, and in Christ I become an heir in the linage of Abraham and David! (see Gal. 3:26-4:7) It doesn’t matter what I’ve done, Jesus wants me in His family!
Something I’m learning by experience is that in relationship with Jesus and our Father that my needs are met. God is enough, for He loves me unconditionally, fills me with His Spirit so I’m never alone, and shares with me in an intimate way beyond what I can have with anyone else. I am a woman awed by the love of a Man who truly cares.
I pray that each of you will realize how much you mean to Jesus. You know what? It’s because of Jesus’ relationship to us that we are sisters!
With love,
Barbara
Ever felt lonely? Maybe you do today. I’ve struggled with the feeling of loneliness for years, which may surprise some of you single women who know I have a husband. I’d probably have more lonely times if it wasn’t for my family, but one can be inwardly lonely while mingling with a crowd of people. If you feel lonely, you’re in good company, because so did Jesus.
The other morning I was reading in the book Desire of Ages about Jesus’ growing up years and saw how He often felt alone. His brothers didn’t accept Him, nor did Jesus’ mother understand His mission. His favorite place was out in a secluded spot in nature where He could pour out His thoughts to the only Person who understood Him—His Father. “Through childhood, youth, and manhood, Jesus walked alone. In His purity and His faithfulness, He trod the wine press alone, and of the people there was none with Him. He carried the awful weight of responsibility for the salvation of men.” (DA 92)
So much of my life I’ve sought acceptance and friendship with others while living the life of a loner. I’m not a social butterfly, nor is it easy for me to carry on a conversation with someone. I’ve never really fit in with the family into which I was born, maybe because I’m the only girl, and a different one at that. There is something deep inside me which seeks for understanding, a spirit cry for connection. Although unconsciously, I’ve tried to fill that need by doing things for others.
In a number of ways over the past several years God has been “talking” to me about my feelings of loneliness and need for a soul mate friend. “I Am enough!” He reminds me through various circumstances and personal experiences. Just this week my Father has affirmed me as His beloved daughter, as I’ve read inspired words, His message to me.
In talking to Jesus and reading about His experiences I am assured that He understands me. For example---“Bearing the weakness of humanity, and burdened with its sorrow and sin, Jesus walked alone in the midst of men. As the darkness of the coming trial pressed upon Him, He was in loneliness of spirit, in a world that knew Him not. Even His loved disciples, absorbed in their own doubt and sorrow and ambitious hopes, had not comprehended the mystery of His mission. He had dwelt amid the love and fellowship of heaven; but in the world that He had created, He was in solitude.” (DA 422) In my longing for human companionship, someone to whom I can open my heart about anything, I have found a Friend in Jesus. Closer than a brother is our relationship. I can lean on Him and know He’ll always be there. Our spirits are bound together in love. There’s nothing I can’t talk over with Him.
My life has been a journey, searching to belong. And in the arms of my Father, as I “abide under the shadow of the Almighty”, I am satisfied. My Father has been teaching me to depend solely upon Him. When I’m alone with God, especially out in nature, my soul is restored as He fills the lonely spot with His love.
I bought a book recently (haven’t read it yet) entitled When Women Walk Alone by Cindi McMenamin. The back cover reads, “Every woman—no matter what her life’s circumstances, whether she’s single or married—has walked through the desert of loneliness. Maybe you’re going through it right now. Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed by certain burdens. Or deep inside, you’re restless, and you’re not sure why. Or you feel disconnected from others around you. Did you know that alone times in life can be an invitation from God to deepen your relationship with Him? He alone can provide the strength…the wisdom…the hope you need. And best of all, He has promised He will never leave you. When Women Walk Alone will help you turn your alone times into life-changing encounters with God, who cares for you more than you’ll ever know.” (published by Harvest House Publishers and probably available in Christian book stores.)
There’s a song entitled “Through it All” which speaks of my experience. “I’ve been to lots of places, and I’ve seen a lot of faces, yet there were times I felt so all alone. But in my lonely hours, yes those precious lonely hours, Jesus let me know that I was His own.” Lonely times in my life are opportunities to spend with God; times to listen quietly for Him to speak to me.
Yes, we’ll all have times we feel lonely. That’s okay. But we have a choice as to what we will do with our feelings. Jesus is listening. . . .
Your friend, Barbara
Hope you are surviving the summer heat and experiencing the joy of Jesus in your lives. Whatever your circumstances I pray God’s blessings will be realized and you will trust Him more. I have a postcard picture tucked in my Bible of Jesus and a little girl sitting under a tree. Jesus is holding an open Bible and the child is resting her head on His shoulder and looking into His face. Whenever I look at it I’m reminded of my relationship with Jesus and to take the time to just sit with Him and listen to His words.
Nearly every time my grandchildren come over they select a book and ask me to read them a story. One of Michaela’s favorites is “Slip the Otter”. It is a story about an otter who had to move to a different stream where there would be food for her and the family of otters. However, she missed her old home and just lay on a rock and pouted until one day. . . Slip left to explore the stream and came upon a young beaver, whom she approached with curiosity. As the story continues the beaver and otter become friends and play games of tag, splashing together. Slip heads home feeling happy, and on the way she discovers a waterfall to stand under and other delightful things about her new home. Then, around the last bend in the stream before reaching home she finds the most wonderful, curviest mud slide which her family made while she was away. The story ends with Slip curling up in her warm nest to sleep, tired but happy. The last time I read this animal story I thought about how important relationships are; how a friend can make all the difference.
Jesus is the ultimate, understanding Friend, but God created us for companionship and wants us to have friends to share life’s experiences with. While Jesus is the Friend who sticks closer than a brother (or sister), it means a lot to have relationships with others. I’m thinking about why I began writing these encouragement letters—because we all need reminded of spiritual realities and God’s promises.
I want to remind you today that Jesus is able to meet your every need. Like Slip, change is a constant in our lives—sometimes just plain hard. Our plans may be rearranged or even given up because of circumstances which are often beyond our control. However, if we submit to God and commit our lives to His will He is able to take our situations and work everything out for the best. He will put surprises, new friends, and good things in our lives—like Slip experienced—if we continue to trust Jesus.
And His promise is to always be with us as our Friend. The Psalmist wrote, “In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Joy and pleasures sounds pretty good to me! Who says it is all “pie in the sky by and by”? God has moments to delight us even while we are still living on this earth. They may be little things, but they can bring joy. The other evening I was running water to wash the day’s accumulated pile of dirty dishes when I glanced out the window and noticed a red glow through the trees. “Come see,” my Friend invited. “I want you to enjoy the sunset I created.” So I ran outside where I could gaze at the deep pink clouds and thank God for the beauty at a busy day’s end.
Friendship with Jesus is the most important thing in my life, because when everything else changes, when people let me down, when there is no one who understands what I feel, He is there for me. He is faithful and trustworthy. He enjoys spending time talking to me. Whether I’m content, having a pity party, playing with friends, or safe in “my nest” He is caring for my needs and blessing me. I can relate to Slip.
Blessings, with joy,
Barbara
Fear and faith can not exist together. The other week as I read a familiar story in the gospels this is the message God gave me, and ever since has been giving me the opportunity to put it into practice in my own life.
It was a stormy night on the Sea of Galilee where the disciples of Christ were trying to sail across. All day Jesus had taught and helped countless people until he was exhausted. As soon as the boat pulled anchor Jesus laid down in the stern and fell into a deep sleep. The next thing He knew was boisterous waves, clashing thunder, and terrified men crying for help. Calmly Jesus stood and spoke three authoritative words, “Peace, be still.” As the sea silenced its wild rolling and tossing Jesus turned to the amazed men who were in the boat with Him and asked, “Why were you afraid? How is it that you have no faith?”
I’ve heard Jesus asking me these same questions as I’ve cried out to Him, “don’t You care?” Often when waves of difficulty and winds of problems blow upon my soul and I’m struggling to stay afloat---never mind getting anywhere---that I realize my weakness and need of help. Jesus is in the boat with me, and I’m heading where He says to go, yet Satan sends storms seeking to destroy me and break my hold on God. Jesus slept soundly amid the tempest because He rested in the care of His Father. His was a life of faith, not fear. Satan may try to drown me, but nothing can separate me from my loving Father, not all the waves or winds that may blow!
The power that calmed the Sea of Galilee that stormy night is sufficient to bring peace to any situation in my life. Jesus speaks in behalf of my need saying, “Peace, be still.” I read these inspired words from the book Desire of Ages. “When Jesus was awakened to meet the storm He was in perfect peace. There was no trace of fear in word or look, for no fear was in His heart. But He rested not in the possession of almighty power. It was not as the ‘Master of earth and sea and sky’ that He reposed in quiet. That power He had laid down, and He says, “I can of Mine own self do nothing.” John 5:30. He trusted in the Father’s might. It was in faith—faith in God’s love and care—that Jesus rested, and the power of that word which stilled the storm was the power of God. As Jesus rested by faith in the Father’s care, so we are to rest in the care of our Saviour. If the disciples had trusted in Him they would have been kept in peace. Their fear in the time of danger revealed their unbelief. In their efforts to save themselves they forgot Jesus, and it was only when in despair of self-dependence they turned to Him that He could give them help. How often the disciples’ experience is ours! . . . Though He sorrowfully reproves our unbelief and self-confidence, He never fails to give us the help we need. Whether on the land or on the sea, if we have the Saviour in our hearts there is no need of fear. Living faith in the Redeemer will smooth the sea of life and will deliver us from danger in the way that He knows to be best.”
I could share with you many things which have happened to me this summer which are ‘storms’ Satan has created, but rather I want to focus on the PEACE Jesus has given me throughout all the trying days. Infact, just yesterday I was adding up in my mind all the difficulties when God reminded me to think of everything that was working. So I left off dwelling on the cooler for our flowers quiting (which a repair man came and added coolant and a part and fixed), the fertilizer pump not working (which my husband was able to fix), ivy rotting, and too much to do. Instead I began counting my blessings—both vans are running, we have sales for the tube roses, which are coming in along as planned rather than all at once, and being able to pick blueberries off Mama’s bushes, since ours got a blight and the robins finished what few we had. The waves of yesterday didn’t trouble me, but coming on top of the storm of last week I couldn’t help but wonder, ‘why can’t we have some rest?’ The big storm I faced with my family last week was the death of my third grandbaby when my daughter had a miscarriage. The loss hurt, watching my children suffer pained deeply, but Jesus stood up in the boat and spoke peace. We felt His presence and comfort. We have hope, for in the day of eternal peace this little one will be raised to life and my children will be able to hold their baby and raise him/her in a perfect place.
Fear or faith? It’s my choice. In these last days those who live in submission to God and obedience to Him will have the faith of Jesus. “When the storm clouds gather, and the rain begins to fall; Shelter me oh Father, I feel so weak and small. The trials that I’m facing, the sorrows that I bear; With Your presence comfort me, oh Father, be Thou near.” These words of a song I wrote continue to speak to my heart as the storms of life come. My Father is faithful. He is with me. I need not fear. If you are in the midst of a storm, Jesus is with you. Cry to Him and let Him speak, “Peace, be still.”
Trusting Him who cares,
Barbara
In my last letter I shared about life’s storms, and how with Jesus in our boat we can experience peace. In the past couple weeks that message has kept returning to my mind as I’ve faced several more storms. It seems Satan has sought to capsize my boat. With the literal hurricane destructing I’m sure many of you have struggled, longing for calm, wanting a normal crossing of life’s lake, but instead dealing with huge waves and angry winds—both literally and emotionally. Not to minimize what any of you may be dealing with, due to “Katrina” or other issues, I want to share with you from my heart what’s been going on with me. If for no other reason than to let you know—you’re not alone!
On August 30th I stepped into our local funeral home for the service of a friend, and grief enveloped me. Her final days of life she spent in ICU, pretty much unresponsive. Her death seems so premature, a sad ending to life. I’d spent time talking to my Father about Dwan, and He had cried with me about her condition. He also assured me that Jesus had done everything possible for her salvation and that my friendship with her was not in vain. So my feelings of sadness surprised me, and I could hardly talk to anyone at the funeral home. It was 6 years ago this month that I had my car accident. While I was waiting for the police to finish his report so I could just go home she happened to drive by, and seeing me by the road stopped to ask if I was okay. An hour later she called to check on me, and that day marked the beginning of our friendship. God brought Dwan into my life as a woman to whom I could minister. Her phone calls, just because she needed someone to listen—and later to pray for her—were often an interruption to my day, but I already miss her calls. When my granddaughter was born prematurely and fighting for life, Dwan called often to ask me how Michaela was doing and how I was holding up. I knew my needs and family concerns were on her mind, and that she was praying. After spending hours talking to her, taking her to church many different weeks, and 6 years praying for her, I miss Dwan. Even though she was an alcoholic, and I couldn’t trust her to tell me the truth, she was one of the best friends I’ll ever have. She sleeps in peace. I am leaving her future in God’s hands, for only He knows her heart. It’s been a hard time for me.
My role as a mother continues to change as my children go forth to live their own lives, and I struggle with letting go. Mine is a controlling yet nurturing personality so letting go isn’t easy. Now that they are grown I’m at a time in my life when I’m looking for fulfillment in other areas than mothering. Since I home schooled my children through their grade school years, and felt a certain satisfaction in my role as a teacher, now that this is the third year since I put the last textbooks away and quit making lesson plans, I’m sorely missing teaching. Honestly speaking, I don’t find fulfillment in watering ivy plants, throwing out those which die from root rot and spidermites, and continually starting more to continue the cycle—hoping that we will have sales for more of the plants. When this was a side work to my job as mother and teacher it was okay most of the time. Recently I’ve been feeling like a slave to a job I dislike, struggling with menopause, stuck at home while my children do things with friends, and basically feeling sorry for myself. During this emotionally stormy time God has spoken to me. I’m reading a book about women being alone, and had just finished reading the chapter about dealing with restlessness and how God can grow us during such times. Then during a phone conversation I had with one of my brothers He reminded me that my value isn’t in what I do but in who I am—a child of God.
One evening I went to our tube rose field to begin the day’s cutting, reminding myself that I am a farmer’s wife and I need to be content. While wrapping a rubberband around the stems of a bunch of flowers I glanced across the field, white with popping blooms. Two tiny hummingbirds were flitting from one flower to another, content with their simple task of feeding. The same Jesus who spoke of sparrows and lilies is the One who cares for the hummingbirds and makes tube roses bloom. The little birds and pretty flowers fulfill their purpose and bring me joy (yes, and work). Again God reminded me how dear I am to Him, more precious than the created works of His hands that He cares for. He will see me through this season of my life. He wants me to bloom where He’s planted me, faithfully doing the jobs that are a part of my life. He is the One responsible for me feeling fulfilled, so I’ll continue talking to my Father about His will for me. He’s calmed another storm and given me peace. I pray that whatever your struggles God will speak words of encouragement to your hearts and give you His perfect peace.
In His love, Barbara
I’ve had several “coincidences” recently which assure me that my Father is directing my life and blessing me. Thought I’d share them in this letter, and remind you that as a daughter of God nothing in your life is merely coincidental. I praise God for orchestrating events and planning circumstances, keeping the angels busy, showing me that my life matters to Him.
A couple weeks ago I decided I just had to take time and go visit my friend Patty, who is bedfast with a trach tube and has multiple health problems. As soon as I approached her bed she began to cry and tell me all her troubles. She had not been able to sleep for several days, for fear she couldn’t breath and would die (she confessed). Her medicines had run out and she had no money. Her disability check had been cut off several months previously, while she was in the hospital in ICU. She was concerned about her children. I listened awhile, trying to lip read so I would understand her message. Picking up her Bible I read Psalm 103 and prayed that God would comfort her heart and give her rest in Him, working in her behalf to meet her felt needs. I reminded Patty that God cared and loved her and of His promises. I told my friend that I would do what I could to help—at least I could see about the meds she needed. As I talked to her daughter about their financial situation she opened up and began telling me about her feelings of despair because of several things she was dealing with, all piled up. The next day was her girl’s birthday and she had no money to buy her a gift. I listened and promised to be back in the morning to take her to get Patty’s meds. As I drove home I realized that I visited when I was needed—that God had sent me there that evening.
This story of providence continues. A few days previously I’d discovered an envelope with money in it from blueberries I’d picked and sold two summers back. I thought I’d spent it all, so that was a happy surprise. Friday morning I took some of that money and after calls to Patty’s doctor and the pharmacy I picked up Salina. I told her I was taking her to the dollar store to buy a birthday present for her girl, and then we’d go get the meds—I had made the arrangements to have the prescriptions called in. I don’t know who enjoyed the morning more, her or me. A few days later I learned from her son that Patty’s check came and the family was doing okay. (That’s the short version of a long story with private details.)
Another week—another “coincidence”. It was one of those days as a mother when I had concerns regarding one of my children. I continually prayed and tried not to worry. While eating breakfast I was reading Ginger Church’s book “Ask God for a Miracle” and found myself relating to what she shared about God’s leading in her life. As I put my dishes in the sink and laid the book aside a quiet thought came. “Why don’t you email Ginger.” Sitting down at the computer I told this woman my need for a spiritual mentor and asked that she pray for my child. Then I went to the greenhouse to work. Later I read my emails and among them was a friendly reply from Ginger. Her letter was an encouraging boast. She shared with me her prayer that morning asking God to send her someone to bless. Our prayers ascended and God connected us.
Tuesday evening I sat down to research something over internet, then decided to see what Hope Channel was broadcasting. Rather than listen to that preacher I chose to check 3ABN’s site. As the program streamed onto my screen I learned it was the beginning of a 6 part series “Revelation Revealed” presented by John Lomacang. I’ve heard Pastor John sing but never preach, so decided to listen. As the hour passed I realized in my heart that his message from Scripture was God’s words to me. I’ve not missed another “meeting” and been blessed this week as Pastor Lomacang has preached about end time events and Jesus. I have never gone to 3ABN web site any other evening, and know it was God impressing me to do so Tuesday. Hearing these messages is more than coincidence; it is providential.
There have been other divine appointments and surprises God has put in my path. They each remind me that I am special to Jesus and He is in control of my life and wants my happiness. I am awed that God has an individual interest in me and continually reaches out to me with arms of love.
In the book Desire of Ages on page 348 I found this thought. “It is for our own benefit to keep every gift of God fresh in our memory. Thus faith is strengthened to claim and to receive more and more. There is greater encouragement for us in the least blessing we ourselves receive from God than in all the accounts we can read of the faith and experience of others. The soul that responds to the grace of God shall be like a watered garden. His health shall spring forth speedily; his light shall rise in obscurity, and the glory of the Lord shall be seen upon him. Let us then remember the loving-kindness of the Lord, and the multitude of His tender mercies. Like the people of Israel, let us set up our stones of witness, and inscribe upon them the precious story of what God has wrought for us. And as we review His dealings with us in our pilgrimage, let us, out of hearts melted with gratitude, declare, "What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now in the presence of all His people." Ps. 116:12-14.
If you’ve had a “coincidence” in your life that is providential I’d like to hear from you. Set up a stone of witness by sharing your experience with someone. Let’s encourage each other by talking more about God’s goodness to us. My email is blikay@juno.com
God’s blessings to you, Barbara
Autumn winds are blowing at my house today, and the ground is carpeted with fallen, crisp leaves. My heart is filled with thankfulness for the many blessings given me by my Father. All of them are mine through His Son Jesus who lives for me and prays for me and those I ask for His intercession. The love of my Father God and Friend Jesus is perfect, and my heart overflows.
For the past several weeks I’ve been reading and meditating upon the closing days of Jesus life before the cross and the time of agony He endured. The more I contemplate the cross of Christ and His sacrifice for me the more in awe I am of God’s gift. When I think about what sin did to Jesus I hate it. I don’t want anything in my life that will separate me from my Savior. Every scene I view through scripture—Gethsemane, Pilate’s hall, the road to Golgotha, the cross shrouded in darkness, the tomb with its unseen watchers, Jesus tenderly saying “Mary”, and His promise to the disciples “I am with you always”—speaks to me of Jesus unfailing love.
There is no experience that I go through that Jesus does not understand. Satan fought to overcome Christ during his sojourn on this earth, pushing every temptation imaginable into His life trying to get Him to sin. During the closing hours of Jesus life Satan worked with a frenzy, knowing that once Jesus yielded up His life his doom was sealed. Jesus clung in faith to His Father, trusting God’s word, and didn’t give into the dark lies Satan pressed upon His hurting heart. The feelings of separation which Jesus felt, the union with His Father broken because He bore our sins, Satan told Him would be eternal. The battle between darkness and light, death and life, pain and perfection is beyond my comprehension. Jesus won! His victory is mine! His power is available to me to overcome!
Sisters, the tomb is empty. Jesus lives! He holds the keys of death! Today I have hope. I have joy. I have peace and assurance. Today I know I’m loved. When I consider what Jesus did for me and how this very moment He lives for me I am encouraged. I don’t know what you may be going through today, but Jesus does. In the darkest hours of Jesus life He trusted His Father’s will. He didn’t want to drink the bitter cup of suffering and separation that is the price of sin, but He was willing to obey His Father’s plan. The trials, pain, and suffering that you may be in is the result of sin, but you are never alone. Jesus promises to stay with you through every day. If you feel otherwise it’s because Satan is tempting you. Gather up the promises of God and hold fast to you faith in Jesus.
We are in the final moments of this earth’s history. Satan knows his time is short. He is trying to discourage the followers of Jesus. Look up to the cross. Look up to the clouds. Look up to the throne of heaven. Look at Jesus. He’s looking at you, embracing you, comforting you, and helping you. Jesus sits on the right hand of God, and all power has been given Him. Jesus is not visible to our eyes, but in Spirit Jesus is with us. His promise is, “I am with you always.” (Matt. 28:20) God’s indwelling Spirit is the presence of Jesus. (see John 14:16-18 & 23; 15:4; Rom. 8:9-11; 1 John 3:24 & 4:13) Just as Jesus was never alone because the Father abode with Him, so I am never alone. So much was accomplished for this world, for me and you, when Jesus lived and died. Today Jesus applies His blood, His righteousness, His power in our behalf. “Ask anything in My name,” Jesus challenges, “and I will do it.” (John 14:13)
These weeks of reading about Jesus and the events surrounding the cross have moved me closer to Him. I have a deeper desire to share the gospel with others. I long more for the battle to be over. I also have realized how weak I am and how much I need Jesus. I challenge you to spend more time reading the gospels and the book Desire of Ages, and listen to the messages God’s Spirit whispers to your heart. In view of all Jesus is to me all I can say is Alleluia!!!
Yes, I am so thankful that I have a Savior and Friend in Jesus. No matter the circumstances of your life, as you plan your Thanksgiving holiday, join me in giving thanks to Jesus for all He is and all He’s done for us. May you have a blessed day!
With Thanksgiving, Barbara
As Christmas approaches I’ve been thinking about what gifts to buy my children. Also I’ve been reminiscing about past Christmases and trying to decide which gift meant the most. The second Christmas season after my marriage we were so broke that buying gifts was not a possibility. I spent hours creating a special gift for my husband, reading a book into the mike of my little tape recorder. I knew he would enjoy listening to the story during his drive to work. Christmas eve (1979) we sat in our tiny, warm living room looking at our tiny pine cut from a road ditch decorated with a small string of colored lights and rejoiced in our blessings. Our biggest gift that year, whom I could feel kicking under my hand, was our first born daughter. Three Christmases later I was big with child, and our son was born the next day. Six Christmases after Luis was born I held my youngest daughter and watched her precious smiles. We have a picture of Krisanna as a 3 ½ month old baby lying under the decorated tree amid the packages. Yes, my greatest Christmas gifts are my children! There is nothing anyone could give me that would compare with the priceless treasures God has given me on 3 different years. (I might add that both my grandchildren were born in time for Christmas, Nov. 10 and Dec. 22) I am truly blessed.
But the GIFT God sent is what Christmas for the Christian is all about. He is the “indescribable Gift” to which Paul refers. (2 Cor. 9:15) He is the One the prophets wrote about. God the Father says, “Behold My Servant whom I uphold, My Chosen One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.” (Isaiah 42:1) To His Son God states, “I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.” (Read Isaiah 49:1-13, where God tells what the mission of His Son was to be.) “Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given.” (Is. 9:6) An angel spoke to Joseph concerning the baby in Mary’s womb, “She will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21) What a Gift!!
The book Desire of Ages begins with this profound thought. “His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us.”
“The light of the knowledge and glory of God” is seen “in the face of Jesus Christ.” From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was the “image of God,” the image of His greatness and majesty, “the outshining of His glory.” It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God’s love,--to be “God with us.”
In taking our nature, the Saviour has bound Himself to humanity by a tie that is never to be broken. Through the eternal ages He is linked with us. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son.” He gave Him not only to bear our sins and to die as our sacrifice; He gave Him to the fallen race.”
Forever Jesus is one with us! What a Gift!!
Our Father sent a gift of love,
A perfect, tiny Babe,
To brighten lives, to cheer the hearts
Of those He came to save.
Our Father sent a gift of peace
To everyone on earth,
Announced by heavenly angels
At Jesus glorious birth.
Our Father sent His precious Son,
Wrapped in humility,
Arms outstretched to be a friend
For all eternity.
God is not a “Santa Claus” Father, but in the Gift of His only Son He gave His all. In Jesus all the treasures of heaven are emptied into the hearts of those who will receive Him as their Saviour. In Christ we have blessings now and an inheritance with Him as daughters of God.
This Christmas season, as you make or buy gifts for those special people in your life, take time to thank God for the greatest, most precious Gift you will ever receive.
Happy holidays and peace,
Barbara Kay
