Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all!
Romans 3:3-4 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Sometimes when we bring our doubts and fears into the presence of God, we may fear that He won't hear us because our faith is weak or lacking. That just isn't so! Look at some of those who walked with God in the Old Testament. I like the example of Job. He lost everything. His companions were convinced that he had sinned against God. His wife told him to "curse God and die." Yet he continued to pour out his troubles, his doubts and fears to God. He railed against God. Yet when he finished his lamenting and wrestling with his faith, he found a faith that was even and ever stronger than what it was before all his troubles began. That's the kind of faith I want! I want to be able to tell God I have doubts and concerns, because if I don't that will drive me from the heart of God.

Do you doubt that God loves you? Do you doubt that He cares? Do you doubt that He will be able to see you through any and all circumstance? Do you doubt that He even exists and that faith is even real? Take all those doubts to the foot of the cross. God can be trusted with your doubts and fears.

My prayer...

Father God, there are days, there are moments, there are times when my faith wavers. I wonder if all I believe is true and if You have redeemed me through the blood of Christ. May I be courageous enough to pour out my heart to You. Then I ask that You surround me with Your peace and calm my heart. In Jesus name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

A book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who meditate on His name.
~Malachi 3:16

Thoughts on today's verse...

The ancient Egyptians had "The Book of the Dead." The principal purpose of ancient Egyptian funerary literature was to help the deceased pass through the dangers of the Underworld and be reborn into new life. The "Book of the Dead" refers to the funerary texts which the Ancient Egyptians called "the spell for coming forth by day". This title refers to the belief that the deceased took a whole night, as did Re with his solar barque, to travel through the realms of the dead. The all-conquering spirit of the deceased would then emerge triumphant with the morning sun. [© 2001-2008 EGYPTOLOGY ONLINE]

Now, back to Malachi and the Hebrew children... About 100 years had passed since their return to Palestine. The second Temple had been built in Jerusalem, but the people's enthusiasm had worn off. All the people and the priests were in a "backslidden" condition and had become mechanical in the observance of the Law. Though lax in their worship and delinquent in their tithing, they could not understand why God was dissatisfied with them. The book of remembrance mentioned in Malachi 3:16 was for all those Jews who had not defected or neglected the true worship of the Lord. God was remembering their faithfulness to Him.

This begs the question, which book do I want to be mentioned in? "The Book of the Dead" or God's Book of Remembrance?

My prayer...

Oh Lord, my God - as interesting as the history of other cultures is, I desire to learn from the history of your Word. May I not repeat the mistakes of the Hebrew children! May my worship be true and faithful, may my tithes honor You and may they be used for Your glory. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.

~Proverbs 4:6 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

One of the qualities most ascribed to Solomon is his wisdom. Solomon prays: "Give Thy servant an understanding heart to judge Thy people and to know good and evil."1 Kings 3:9 "So God said to him, "Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked..."" (1 Kings 3:11-12)

The Bible also states that: "The whole world sought audience with Solomon to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart." (1 Kings 10:24)

One account, known as the Judgment of Solomon, has two mothers who came before Solomon to resolve a quarrel about which was the true mother of a baby. (The other's baby died in the night and each claims the surviving child as hers.) When Solomon suggests dividing the living child in two with a sword, the true mother is revealed to him because she is willing to give up her child to the lying woman rather than have the child killed. Solomon then declares the woman who shows the compassion is the true mother, and gives the baby back to her.

Wisdom and understanding are qualities we should desire. I think along with wisdom and understanding comes discernment, which is also a desired quality. (And did you notice that wisdom is referred to with feminine pronouns?)

My prayer...

Lord God, Father of all heaven and earth - grant me wisdom, understanding and discernment. May I be slow to speak, but careful to listen. In Jesus' name I pray. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

~Ephesians 5:2 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

In living a life of love, there is much sacrifice involved. When we have small children we often put our lives and careers on hold to raise them. When our parents become old and infirm we sometimes bring them into our homes to care for them. When we have grandchildren, we sometimes bring them into our home to raise them due to complications in their home lives.

In the same manner, when out and about in the marketplace, we can be so moved by something we observe that we are overcome with a sense of love and concern. That is when I know the Holy Spirit is stirring within my spirit. I can remember one such occasion. It was Mother's Day, 1990. After church my husband asked, "Where do you wish to go for lunch?" I named the restaurant and he inquired, "Really? I know that's not your favorite." I assured him it would be fine.

While waiting in line to place our buffet order, anyone and everyone who appeared to be a mother, or could be a mother or contained estrogen of any sort was given a carnation. As is our custom, we were observing the people in line. There were the family groups, the young couples celebrating Mother's Day for the first time with their new babies, the after church groups, when we noticed her. She was right behind us and appeared to be alone. I felt the nudging of the Holy Spirit and spoke with my husband... I turned to her and asked, "Are you here with family?" She responded that she was not. Again I asked, "Would you be our surrogate mother for the day? Both our mothers live out of state." She agreed.

We got our orders, my husband paid for all the meals and found a vacant table. After prayer, we began introductions. It turned out our little lady was in the area from Florida. She had returned to bury her husband of many years. They had never been blessed with children. I had to excuse myself... to wipe away the tears. We were blessed to be in the company of the dear woman for dinner that day and to be in the presence of the Holy Spirit. I've often wondered since then, what if we would have ignored the prompting? Oh, and the sacrifice? That occurred during our "poverty" years and yet we were able to provide for all the meals.

My prayer...

Lord God, keep me ever in tune with Your Spirit so that my spirit may know how to respond. In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The Lord upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.

~Psalm 145:13

Thoughts on today's verse...

Who of us hasn't seen the Geico insurance commercial where the top CEO is encouraging the gecko to do the corporate trust building exercise. The CEO wants to "fall backwards" into the arms of the gecko, implying that he trusts the gecko - literally and figuratively. The cuteness of the commercial is that we all can imagine what would be the final outcome for the little gecko.

But what about us? Are we able to "trust fall" into the arms of our Savior? When we are at the point where we can no longer depend upon our own strength, are we able to "fall" into the arms of our Savior? Maybe it's teaching a class, leading a Bible Study, singing a solo or working the nursery at church and we find that we are just tired, exhausted and would prefer not to do this "thing." Are we able to give up our control and fall into the arms of our Savior and allow Him raise us up to new heights?

Like the visual impact of the Geico commercial, let the scene of you falling backwards into the arms of your Savior play through your mind's eye. Then trust Him to catch you when you fall, and raise you up when you a bowed down.

Today's prayer...

Father God, sometimes I am so weary I just don't feel I can go on or walk another step... may I trust You during those times to get me through. May the words and music of Josh Groban's song "You Raise Me Up" flood my mind and give me the strength to trust You to catch me. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Jesus said, "Our Father in heaven...forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors."
~Matthew 6:9, 12

Thoughts on today's verse...

Have you ever been hurt, deeply hurt by someone close to you? I have. I'm relatively sure you have been too. It is especially crushing when that someone professes to be a Christian. Sometimes I find I will act or appear to be "Saint Tamara the Martyr." Whoa is me... pity poor me... "Oh Lord, how can they act that way to me?" All I have to do is open up the gospels in the New Testament and see how Jesus was treated and how he responded. Remember, when hanging on the cross He cried out, "Forgive them Father, for they don't know what they are doing."

If we harbor unforgiveness and bitterness in our hearts and spirit, it is only successful in hurting us. It becomes like a malignant cancer that erodes our very spirit. Likewise, when we pray for the person who hurt us, who crushed us... and ask the Lord to forgive and bless that person, it may not change them, but it certainly changes us. If we give mercy to those who have wounded us, isn't that showing the love of Christ?

My prayer...

Father God, cause my heart to be tender and not calloused towards those who hurt me. May I forgive them as You have forgiven me. May I pray for them and ask Your blessing upon them. In your precious Name I pray, Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
~Galatians 3:25 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

I'm a bit late posting today! I've been blessed with having two grandchildren spend the weekend. They are two and three years old and such a blessing, but I can assure you, I am abundantly aware why the Lord allows younger women to be moms and not us older ones (forgive me, Sarah... I couldn't have done what you did!). I also believe the Lord knew my limitations as the two children I do have are ten years apart in age.

Hanging on our refrigerator is a picture of three year old Abby's footprints with a little verse: "Walk a little slower, said a child oh so small, I'm walking in your footprints and I do not want to fall." That was her gift to her Grandpa for Father's Day. Then all this weekend, two year old Zachary steps in to any one's shoes that are left out and tries to walk in them. He stumbles, catches himself then continues on. Abby's refrigerator art and Zachary trying to fill our shoes makes me smile. But even more so, with reference to today's scripture verse admonishing us to "keep in step with the Spirit" - like Zachary, we sometimes stumble, we sometimes may even fall, but let us continue on trying to keep in step with the Spirit!

My prayer...

Abba, Father! Thank You so for today's verse and how it relates to our spiritual lives. May we walk in the Spirit and leave footprints in the lives of our children and grandchildren that will be worthy of following. Even so, Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
~Isaiah 40:31 KJV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Waiting is never easy for me. I'm not good in a doctor's office. Especially when I have an appointment for 10:15 a.m. and I'm not seen until 11:30 a.m. I understand there are emergencies but I would appreciate knowing why I have to wait so long.

But waiting on the Lord, ah, my friends, that's a different thing! I like places of solitude and quiet respite. I have a small wrought iron cafe table on my patio and that is one of my most favorite places to meet with the Lord. Early in the morning, reading His word and praying. Sometimes He will delight me with the unexpected, such as a pair of quail in my yard or the brilliant flash of a male cardinal coming to feed. Yes, starting the day with my Savior does renew my strength. Although I haven't begun running yet, I can assure you that I do not faint when walking!

My prayer...

Lord, thank you for quiet places where we can renew our strength. Whenever I seem to be overwhelmed by a problem or pressing issue, I can calm myself with Your Word and a quiet place of solitude and peace. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

You have preserved me because I was honest; you have admitted me forever to your presence.

~Psalm 41:12 TLB

Thoughts on today's verse...

Do you ever question God? Now that may sound blasphemous to some of you, but is it? I don't think so. Above everything else, God wants us to be honest with Him. He wants a real relationship with real people, not something perfunctory or plastic or falsely "holy and reverent".

There are times in our lives when we are hurting. Maybe it's physical, maybe it's emotional, or maybe it's spiritual. I recall one such time. My son (my only son) was sentenced to prison. Since I work for the prison system I was especially devastated. In my prayer time with the Lord, I screamed, I ranted, and I raved. I questioned God, I didn't understand how He could allow this. After I had poured out all the anger, all the questions, and all the fear I had, I simply asked the Lord to help me see His purpose, to perhaps allow me to minister to other parents in this situation. And to glorify Him through all of it. Mind you, this was not an immediate response, it took months of prayer to come to this attitude.

I wish I could say that everything in my son's life has turned out well, but I'm still waiting for the answer to that prayer. And I will continue to pray for him for as long as I have breath.

My prayer...

Lord God, sometimes prayer isn't pretty. Sometimes it is down right ugly, especially when we have questions and are totally honest with You. Help me to remember that it is alright to question You. Help me to remember that You prefer a broken and contrite heart above sacrifice. Help me Lord, to be open with You, You know my heart better than even I do. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
~Philippians 4:13 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

In my devotional today, the title was "Let Go and Let God". I've always wanted a self-help manual on how to do this! Frankly, this is what I consider to be one of the most popular Christian cliches. I believe I've said it before, but I'm really good at giving "it" to the Lord... and then snatching it back again so I can worry and fret over it some more.

What this devotional stated is that the love of God is the key to trusting Him enough to let Him "do it." He invites us to climb off the treadmill of self-effort and rule keeping. Isn't that a wonderful thought? We actually partner with God, realizing He has the power - we do not and that is where we come to that strategic place, that point in prayer where we cry out, "Lord, help me! I can't do this!"

My prayer...

God, Father of all creation, Father of love - surround me with Your love today. With that knowledge of Your love, may I also find that deep well of trust and then release. No more of my striving and legalistic rule keeping, but the sweet scent of surrender. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul.

~3 John 2 NRSV

Thoughts on today's verse...

The New American Standard Translation Bible reads the above scripture as, "Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers." Above it in pencil I had written "The Vulcan Greeting". You remember Spock from Star Trek, giving the split hand sign and saying, "Live long and prosper". Isn't that a hoot?

Nonetheless, the specialness of this verse is that John is praying for some one's health, that it remains good, before he has even heard of the person having an illness. That is almost opposite of what we do. After we learn of some one's ill health, we begin to pray. I don't know about your church prayer list, but ours abounds with persons having health problems.

Sometimes when our health declines, our faith begins to waver. We begin to question God and His promises to us. Sometimes we even being to think that God doesn't care about us and has abandoned us, or even that our illness is a result of sin in our lives.

It's during these challenging times we need to hold fast to our faith. We need to keep trusting the Lord. Perhaps it is a part of His divine plan to allow us to go through this period of ill health. We need to keep a positive attitude and care for our bodies wisely and seek proper medical care. He heals today just as He did generations ago. Even if He does not heal you the way you want or hope, continue to trust Him.

Finally, how just and loving could we say God is if He only allowed unbelievers to have health issues? I believe that by allowing believers to have health issues, there is an opportunity for everyone to see the difference in how a believer and an unbeliever handle medical adversity.

Today's prayer...

Oh Lord, my God - help me to apply these very thoughts in my own life and with my own health issues! Thank you, Father, for getting my attention in a not so subtle way. Now I praise You that I am able to walk 2 - 5 miles a day and to ride a bike around my neighborhood. Now my Lord, may I be able to minister to others who may be experiencing cardiac health issues. In Your precious name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today’s Verse

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
~Romans 15:15

Thoughts on today’s verse…

Forty years ago today, July 20, 1969, at 10:56 p.m. EDT, American astronaut Neil Armstrong, walked on the moon’s surface. Do you remember where you were and what you were doing? Do you remember the national pride that swelled in our hearts and we believed that we could do anything as a nation? Well, there are critics and conspiracy theorists who today claim that the moon walk never occurred, that it was all staged. That it was an elaborate hoax.

Today’s verse speaks of believing and of the joy, the peace, and the hope that comes with it. And hope, like nothing else in the world, inspires us and motivates us to keep going. Like when we watched Neil Armstrong walk on the moon’s surface and say, “One small step for man, one giant step for mankind.”

My prayer...

Oh Lord, my God, fill us with hope, fill us with joy, and fill us with the peace that comes from believing. Guard us that we may not become skeptical, heartless, or unfeeling. ~Amen!

Note to my blogging buddies...

Ladies, you just cannot begin to know how much I cherish and appreciate your comments. Thank you so much! Such devine coincidence for the verses that are selected and for some of your posts. Hugz to you all!

Yours, because we’re His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

~Philippians 4:6 NRSV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Ruth Bell Graham said, "Worship and worry cannot exist at the same time in the same heart. They are mutually exclusive." I need to commit this quote to memory!

When I pray, I use an acronym - ACTS, which stands for adoration, confession, thanksgiving and supplication. When we adore or hallow God's name, we give Him the honor, the glory and the praise He deserves. When we confess, we leave nothing left between the two of us that would hinder or keep our prayers from being heard. When we express our thankfulness, our gratitude to God, we are saying we believe He will answer us and provide for our needs or the needs of those for whom we are praying. Next and final comes supplication, the "asking for" part of our prayer. For our needs, the needs of others, for corporate prayer such as for the church.

The Lord's prayer is a wonderful model for us. Not asking for what we want, but for what we need. There is a difference and God is not some cosmic Santa Clause waiting to hand us our every desire. This is a difficult lesson for us to teach our children and grandchildren. They often have a hard time knowing the difference between needs and wants. What a privilege we have to teach our children and grandchildren how to talk to God!

My prayer...

Father God, may I always give to You the glory and honor You deserve. May I always confess those things that separate me from You. May I always have an attitude of gratitude. May I always trust Your answers to my prayers. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.

~Ephesians 1:7-8 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Are there times when you need forgiveness? I have those times when I desperately need forgiveness. Oh, it doesn't matter what for, just know that I know that my sin (or sins) keep my prayers from being heard. And there is nothing worse than praying and knowing that your prayers just hitting the ceiling and going no further...

Then, when we do ask for and receive forgiveness, the problem is: (1) we usually just don't feel forgiven and (2) having to deal with the consequences of our sin. It all comes down to our focus. If we focus on our junk, our lack of worthiness we have difficulty forgiving ourselves and in accepting God's forgiveness. We need to shift our focus to Christ and his redemption for all sin on the cross.

If we're struggling with forgiving ourselves or even someone else, we need to remember the Jesus died for all of us - equally.

My prayer...

My Lord and My God, help me to remember that your forgiveness is for one and all. The only sin that will separate me from You is the one I haven't confessed. May I be humble enough to bring all those things before you and lay them at your feet. In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The same day two of them [disciples of Jesus] were walking to the village Emmaus... They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was.

~Luke 24:13-16 MSG

Thoughts on today's verse...

Can you imagine the astonishment these two must have had when they realized the third person who joined them on the walk was Jesus? Talk about not being able to see the forest for the trees! But then I wonder how often I've not been able to see Jesus because I've been so preoccupied with life and all that is going on around me.

God speaks to me through His word, when I take the time to listen. He speaks to me through circumstances and divine coincidence. He speaks to me through nature and the innocence of children. No writing on the wall, no audible voices, but through events and other persons. And I always know deep within my spirit when it is God speaking.

My prayer...

Lord, may I hear you today. May I take the time to listen with my spirit to Your Spirit. May I walk so close to You that I never have to stand back and say, "O... it's You!"

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Jesus said, "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you."

~John 15:15 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Sometimes in the pursuit of being a "good Christian" we become involved in doing works of service. We can become members of every committee and attend every prayer group and Bible study that the church offers. We can volunteer to work in the nursery or become a Sunday School teacher. If there is a job to be done, then by golly, we're there! We may even run ourselves ragged doing things for God and somehow lose sight of Him in the midst of all of it. Sometimes we may even experience Christian burn-out. I don't believe God called us to burn-out for His name sake, but to wear out in due time.

I also think that when we become so involved in the works as described above, that is what it becomes - work and not service. God becomes our boss, our task master and not our friend, and without His friendship life becomes a rat race and Ladies, more often than not, the rats win!

As yesterday's devotional stated, we all have a gift (or gifts) and once we learn what that or those may be, then we become free to use that gift (talent) in the Lord's service. What liberation!

My prayer...

Abba, Father! Free me, liberate me to see and know exactly what my gift is so that I may use it to Your glory! ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.

~1 Peter 4:10 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Each and everyone of us has a special gift that has been bestowed from God, the Father. Do you know what your gift is? Do you use it to serve others? I believe that in being creative, we must listen to that voice inside ourselves to help identify our ideas, dreams and aspirations.

Don't seek after your gift with your intellect, because it will vanish, but listen to your heart. Where do you find joy? Not happiness, that's different - happiness depends upon "happenings" and joy springs from within. So again I ask, what's your gift, or is it gifts?

In every active, growing church I've ever attended, there has been a group of special needs persons. I sometimes think that God has allowed them to be closer to Him in their child-like simplicity. In our current church, we have Janey. Janey is difficult to understand, but my husband can speak fluent Jane-esie. The one frequent utterance from Janey that I can understand is, "I pray for you." And she does. Faithfully. Bless her heart! She prays for my husband, for me, for our wayward children and for our grandchildren.

My prayer...

Father God, thank you for bestowing every believer with a gift (or gifts). May we use them to honor and serve You and the family of God. May we have the simple, childlike faith of Janey and the faithfulness of her in our prayer life. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The Lord your God goes with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you.
~Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Today's verse is comforting, especially in today's transient society. Divorce is as common as marriage, just as many babies are born out of wedlock as are born to married couples. It used to be that someone worked at one job until retirement, but now diversity is key and having a number of jobs shows your versatility and being able to adapt to change. And then there is the final seperation - that of death.

Just yesterday I learned of a dear friend's plight. Her husband of 47 years walked out on her, apparantly for another woman. He was having an "affair". Affair, doesn't that sound... nice? Is it more acceptable as an "affair" rather than calling it adultery? But it is what it is.

In our own family we have two grandchildren from our son - Abby and Zachary. They are 13 months apart in age and they each have a different Momma. Our son has never been married. I feel fortunate if we get to see the children on the weekend. It tears my heart out, and yet I know that I am not the only grandparent who faces issues like this. I believe that children of divorce and those born out of wedlock are the new "orphans" of our society.

Our country's current economic situation is, well, dire at least for the common working class. You seem to have a stable job one day and the next you're being told to pack it up - you're laid off.

Then the final blow - you're given the news of a catastrophic illness or told your loved one has passed on... How do you go on? How do you cope?

Here is where we need to apply today's verse: "The Lord your God goes with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you." Even though it may feel as if you are alone, even if it feels that He has forsaken you, He is with you. We cannot depend upon our feelings as they are subject to change.

My prayer...

Lord, My God - be with those of us who feel so alone, so forsaken. Comfort us in our time of need. Help us to comfort those around us who have been abandoned, forsaken and left alone. May we show Your love to the hurting. ~Amen

Special Note:

Happy Birthday, Abby! You are three years old today and Grandpa and Grandma love you!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

~Hebrews 13:6, 8

Thoughts on today's verse...

Verse 6 is taken from Psalm 118:6 and I do believe the Lord has placed it in today's devotional just as a gentle reminder to me that He is in control and I am not! Then verse 8 shows that He is the same yesterday and today and forever. Isn't that like the name of God, when Moses asked, "who shall I tell them sent me?" and God responded, "tell them 'I Am'." Not "I was" past tense, not "I will be" future tense, but "I Am", here and now, past, present and future. The Alpha and Omega - the beginning and the end.

I enjoy the book of Hebrews and every time I read a verse, I am compelled to look through the chapter and find notes I've written during sermons and Bible studies. Chapter 11 is the Hall of Faith and one by one it names old testament believers who "by faith"... I love the fact that Sarah is mentioned, especially since she laughed at the pre-incarnate Christ who said she would have a child in her advanced years.

Then in chapter 13 verse 2, we are encouraged to show hospitality to strangers as we may be entertaining angels and aren't even aware of it! Finally, verse 15 tells us to "offer up a sacrifice of praise". I was curious about that and did a study on it sometime ago. What it means is even when we don't 'feel like it', even when it seems everything has turned against us - praise Him. You see, He sacrificed everything for us and now we are to sacrifice our feelings, our attitudes and our pride to praise Him. Someone much wiser than me said, "I will not offer to God, that which costs me nothing." And that, my friends is a sacrifice of praise.

My prayer...

Abba Father, today I praise your Holy Name! To You, O Lord, who are the creator of all heaven and earth I acknowledge You with awe and wonder! You, who reached me when I was unreachable - who loved me when I was unlovable - and who touch me when I was untouchable. To You, O Lord, be the glory, the honor and the power forever and ever. Even so, Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.
Proverbs 22:6 NRSV

Thoughts on today's verse...

My husband and I have done the first part to the best of our ability, now we're just waiting for the last part! We've hopefully taught our children Christian principles to live by, but they will have to test those principles for themselves. Like us, somethings can only be learned by making mistakes.

Once they are grown, all we can do is accept, love and pray for them. But DO draw the line at enabling them! Then, let them go. God is their parent for eternity and only through God's grace and power can they live holy lives.

I liken this to eagles in the wild. They start their nest with a lot of large sticks, thorns, broken bones, pieces of sharp glass and other odd and ends to build the base. Next, they get smaller sticks, twigs and grasses. Finally, just before they lay their eggs, they pull down and feathers from their own bodies to line the nest for a comfort to the newly hatched chicks making it a cozy, comfortable place for the newly hatched eaglets.

When it's time for the eaglets to leave the nest, Mama and Papa Eagle begin to tear out all the nice, comfy, fluffy items lining the nest, leaving all the sharp, pointed objects. This makes the eaglet uncomfortable, so he perches on the edge of the nest. One parent will be soring above the nest, and one below. The one above the nest will dive at the eaglet and force him off the nest. If the eaglet does not fly, the one soring below will catch him and return him to the edge of the nest, where the process begins all over again.

My prayer...

Oh Lord, my God... help me to be patient, loving, and prayerful with my adult children's lives. May they eventually acknowledge You and worship You. May I remember the lesson of the eagles. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Just a Note

Yesterday I received the Warm Hearts Award from Jackie (at Jackie-teacherspet). This award is very special and an honor because it's an award created by Sandy (at Beachgirl77) in memory of her son Jonny. This award is passed on to those who are bolstering, uplifting, reassuring, soothing, calming, cheering, consoling, and encouraging. Thank you Jackie, for sharing this award with me.

This is a picture of Becky, the young mother of two beautiful little girls and wife of Martin. She was "re-called" to active duty. I would appreciate your prayers for her and I'm sure she would too! Also pray for her daughters and husband.

I remain,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Jesus said, "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

~Luke 12:32

Thoughts on today's verse...

Traveling to the book of Luke chapter 12 and beginning in verse 22, helps to put verse 32 in context. Basically, it's saying, "Don't worry!" And that, Girl Friends, is something I have trouble with. Verse 34 sums it all up very nicely, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

I've become so accustomed to the Christian cliche, "Just give it to Jesus!" and I do... for a bit... then I snatch it back and worry about it some more. I know this is a control issue, and frankly I need a "how to" manual on giving it to Him and then just leaving it there! Our most recent ladies Bible Study was entitled, "Living Above Worry and Stress" and one would have thought I'd have gleaned more from it than I did. What I did find in the study were numerous verses that continue to remind and reassure me that the Lord is with me and all that I worry about.

My prayer...

My Lord and my God, please flood my mind with verses from Your Word when I determine that I am going to worry about something! No amount of worry will change the outcome, but a change in my attitude can affect how I react to the circumstance. Especially when I acknowledge that You are in control and nothing, not one thing escapes Your sovereign nature. All things will work to your glory. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Jesus Christ is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for the sins of the whole world.

~1 John 2:2 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Well, I thought I'd turn to 1 John, 2nd chapter and do a little research. I ended up reading the entire book, which isn't a bad thing at all. Chapter 3:1 "See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we shold be called children of God; and such we are." Then in chaper 4, verses 7-8 "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and every one who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." Verse 11: "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." Verses 18-19: "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us." Then chaper 5, verse 13: "These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, in order that you may know that you have eternal life." I'm grateful and thankful that today's verse led to a bit of research - God is good and it is good to be reminded of that.

Ladies, I so appreciate all your comments on yesterday's post. I understand that depression often follows illness. I also have a prayer request for you: I have a very dear friend in Ohio, Theresa who is battling cancer for yet a second time.

My prayer...

Father God, thank you for your Word and how we can read it so many times and yet find new truths to appreciate and apply in our lives. I pray today for my friend Theresa and the battle she is up against. I pray that you hold her in the very palm of your hand and allow her to sense your Spirit. This I pray in Jesus' name. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness.

~Isaiah 61:10 KJV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Do you have secret, hidden places in your life? I do. Those are the places that I retreat to and lick my wounds and sometimes just have a pity party. These are the things that I keep hidden from others. I used to think that my experiences were unique and that no one else had experienced the things I had. But the truth is many people have those secret, hidden places and have experienced the very things that I have, or worse.

The Greek word for salvation means "to save, to heal, to make complete." And that is what happens at the cross. What I have come to realize is the circumstances of life are intended to make us better, not bitter. And sometimes those very circumstances allow us to minister grace and healing to others.

My prayer...

Abba, Father... when I enter the depths of depression help me to be like Peter who walked on the water with Christ... until his focus fell on the world and off of Christ... let me raise my hand to You, that You may pull me from the murky, storm tossed waters. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.
~Luke 10:20 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Have you ever gone to the refrigerator and pulled out the cottage cheese, opened it up and EWWWWW - it was way past the expiration date! Everything has a shelf life - us too. I hate to be cynical, but life is terminal and none of us are getting out alive. So that begs the question, do I have things in order? You know, the "housekeeping" issues: Do I have a will or living trust? Prearranged funeral plan? Are my bills paid? Is the house clean? Do I owe anybody money? Do I need to forgive someone or mend a broken relationship?

I know for a fact where I will go when I die, and I believe God's Word. But I still wonder about some things. What will it be like to "pass over"? Will I see Jesus right away? How about friends and family who have gone before, will I get to see them right away? What will my "heavenly" body be like? Will I get to observe what's happening on earth?

Questions, questions and more questions... For me the bottom line is this: If what I believe about God, Jesus and redemption is not true - I will still be a better person for having believed it and living my life in line with that belief. My concern is for those who do not believe or have any "faith". When their time comes, what if what they believe isn't true?

My prayer...

Father God, my Lord and Savior - empower me with the ability to share with those who have no faith or belief. May I be able to do so in a non-threatening way that could cause them to reconsider what they believe and seek honestly for truth. ~Amen

Yours because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.

~Ephesians 3:14-15 NASV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Genealogy is not something I've ever wanted to do. I've always been concerned about what I'd find hanging on the limbs of the family tree. I must also confess that I generally have problems with the Old Testament genealogies of who begat whom, and on and on. I can't even pronounce most of the OT names! Today's verse takes it to a different dimension, however.

I guess one could say that I'm a double adoptee... my original adoption into a family unit as an infant and then my spiritual adoption into God's family. Romans 8:15 reads, "For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out 'Abba! Father!' " And that's just the beginning! There's also Romans 8:23 and 9:4; Galatians 4:5 and Ephesians 1:5. God is in the business of creating, restoring and preserving family units! I find that so encouraging in a day where it seems that everything around us is conspiring to destroy the family unit.

My prayer...

Abba! Father! Daddy! Thank you for loving me (us), thank you for adopting me (us) and making me (us) heirs of Your family. Now, my Lord and God, may I live my life in such a fashion that people will know that I am your daughter. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

~Deuteronomy 31:6

Thoughts on today's verse...

When we travel through those places of great testing, the Lord tells us again and again, "I will be there!"

As you look back over your life today, take some time to reflect upon those times when God was there for you. Pull out your trusty journal and consider:

What do you trust God with today that you may not have trusted Him with some time ago?

Can you look back and see God's hand at work in situations where you perhaps couldn't see them before?

Do you love God more today than you did a year ago?

Do you believe He loves you?

God's love for us is unending and His faithfulness never ending. Whatever are you facing right now, be it good or bad, remember that you are loved by a God who spared nothing of Himself to show you His faithfulness.

My prayer...

Lord, today I choose to pray portions of Psalm 55: ' And I said, "Oh that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest... I would hasten to my place of refuge, From the stormy winds and tempest. As for me, I shall call upon God, and the Lord will save me... He will redeem my soul in peace from the battle which is against me... Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you... I will trust in Thee." ' Father, that is my prayer today - for those of us who find ourselves in the midst of a battle - be it physical, emotional, or spiritual - calm our hearts and allow us to experience your strength. Amen

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Christ Himself is our peace -
Ephesians 2:14 NCV

Thoughts on today's verse...

I love the four little epistles - Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians. I remember learning their order by a little catch phrase: "gentiles eat pork chops". What is so funny about that is today's verse, in fact all of chapter 2 is about how the completed work of Christ united the "Uncircumcision" (the gentiles) and the "Circumcision" (the Jews).

Verses 13-15 actually ties it all together in explaining how we were formerly "far off" from Christ but are now all brought together and both groups have been made into one because He (Christ) has broken down the barrier of the dividing wall. We are joint heirs in the kingdom of God!

That is freedom! That is peace! That is independence - not from God, but in God! We choose (independently) to follow Him.

My prayer...

My Lord and my God - thank you for freedom, for peace and for the independence that we have in You! Thank you for your sovereign deity that has allowed us to be born here in the USA. May we always be thankful and grateful for Your provision. Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The Lord is good to those who hope in Him, to those who seek Him.
~Lamentations 3:25 NCV

Thoughts on today's verse...

The thesaurus provides the following synonyms for the word hope:
expect
trust
anticipate
wish
look forward to

I enjoy word studies and find them helpful in trying to understand the full impact of a particular word. And I like the word hope! It gives the impression of something a little further down the road, something just around the bend. You know, Christmas morning and children opening packages.

What hope isn't is a positive mental attitude. I have hope, but sometimes my attitude is less than positive, in fact it can be down right cynical. There is no way to conquer despair with "happy thoughts". Hope has strength, but not strength of its own. The power of hope comes from the truth it hopes in, no matter what the outcome.

When I had my heart attack and was flown via medical helicopter to Tucson, Arizona I can tell you most assuredly that I have never wanted to fly by helicopter anywhere at all! My anxiety level (and blood pressure) rose substantially, I'm sure. Now, although I was fearful of the trip and the mode thereof, I had hope. The hope was not merely that we would successfully complete the trip, but the hope that if anything happened, I would eventually be in the arms of my loving Savior. That's it, bottom line. But for now, since I am still here, as the last portion of our verse shows, I will continue to seek Him!

My prayer...

Lord God, Heavenly Father - thank you for the word hope! Thank you for its meaning and for what it can do in our lives. My hope and my trust are in You alone. Even so - Amen!

Yours, because we're His,
Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king.
~Jeremiah 10:10 KJV

Thoughts on today's verse...

I like the book of Jeremiah, in fact one can accurately guess my age by this book. I call it "the bullfrog chapter" (Jeremiah was a bullfrog... was a good friend of mine...) Ok, ok, enough of the humor already! Jeremiah was referred to as the 'weeping prophet'. Jeremiah's warnings against sin and judgment are paramount throughout the book, but so also is the message of hope and restoration.

Isn't that a message we still need today? Hope - to continue on in the face of adversity, when everything inside our beings is crying out for us to quit, resign, retire. And restoration... sweet restoration... Those of you who refurbish antiques know exactly what I'm talking about. Taking something old and making it new again. That is exactly what the Lord does for us through repentance and forgiveness. This message of hope and restoration is one we need to take into the market place. We are not alone in needing this message but are surrounded by others who need it too, even though they may be denying it.

My prayer...

Abba, Father - I ask that You fill me with your Spirit this day. Allow me to be your vessel and fill me so full of You that it spills over and flows onto those I come into contact with today. May I have a message of hope and restoration for one who needs it today. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,
Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
~Psalm 119:11 KJV

Thoughts on today's verse...

God commanded the Israelites on how they were to respond to His counsel and his word: "And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart; you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates" (Deuteronomy 6:6-9).

I had a wonderful book titled Doorposts by Timothy R. Botts. It was a book full of art and calligraphy that highlighted verses of scripture. I found great comfort in that book and often used it for meditation. I find that art (drawing, painting and even calligraphy) are entwined in the creative expression of our Lord and God. Now, I may not have the artist's ability nor the sure strokes of the calligrapher but I can still write God's word upon the doorposts of my heart, my home. I can even use Post-It Notes if I want! I've even been known to use permanent marker on my mirror to leave reminder notes (they easily are removed with window cleaner and it acts like a dry erase board).

Yes, I need those reminders of God's instruction - it helps me to keep on track.

My prayer...

Lord, recall to my mind those verses I have hidden in my heart, especially when I am going through times of trial. May I be even more diligent to continue to hide them, to memorize them and then Dear Father, use them to comfort me. ~Amen

Yours, because we're His,
Tamara