Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock.

~Matthew 7:25 NRSV

Thoughts on today's verse...

"Little pig, little pig, let me in!" "Not by the hair on your chiney chin chin!" Ah, the three little pigs and their houses of various and varied building materials. Straw, twigs and branches, and finally brick. And we all have wolves trying to get into our homes to plunder and destroy.

It seems that the condition of the traditional family is under attack in our country. It is almost scorned upon to be a traditional family, whatever that may be. An alternative life-style is honored and given priority in a number of television programs and in the movies.

I don't think I'd mind it so much if the media didn't make it out like the traditional home and family with Christian values are 'less than' and totally ignorant of what is really happening in the world. That we are so out of touch. The truth is, I work with persons with an alternative life-style. I genuinely like these people and interact with them on a daily basis. I don't wish them dead or destroyed and it's not my position to try to "change" them. How they live and what they be live is between them and their creator. But don't treat me as ignorant and uninformed because of what I believe.

The African proverb holds true today, 'it takes a village'. We are all shapes, sizes, colors, preferences and people. Our ideas, ideals and beliefs are important. No more, no less than someone else's. I couldn't nor would I turn my back on my child if one of them suddenly announced they were gay.

My prayer...

Lord, the wolves are at the door. Help me to stand firm in what I believe, but to also show love and concern to those who do not believe as I do. In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Weekend Edition

Weekend Verse

Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.

~Proverbs 3:18 NLT

Thoughts on the weekend verse...

This weekend I read an interesting thought by Marilyn Meberg from her book, "I'd Rather Be Laughing". She was talking about forgiveness and how it is a tough topic, especially because we have some misconceptions about it.

The first misconception she brought up was that if you forgive someone, you have to "get back together" with that person. Not true says Meberg, we need to mentally separate the act of forgiveness and the act of reuniting. They are not the same nor are they synonymous. We can forgive someone and still plan never to see that person again. Forgiving the offender does not change the offender... it changes you.

The second misconception is that if we forgive someones offense, it excuses that person's behavior. Meberg stated that forgiving does not excuse or condone... it simply forgives.

The third misconception is that forgiving means forgetting the pain that individual inflicted on you. The concept of "forgive and forget" is something only God can do. We can't come anywhere near forgetting, wrote Meberg.

Some of us have been deeply hurt by others persons actions and we harbor anger, resentment and sometimes even blame God for allowing the action to have happened. Perhaps it was an accident that claimed the life of our child, maybe it was sexual abuse that occurred when we were young. Perhaps our parents abused us rather than using loving discipline, or perhaps they favored one child over you and you felt that sting all your life. Remember the above wisdom offered from Meberg and forgive. It's for you and your health and well-being.

This verse in Proverbs clearly states that "wisdom is a tree of life". And that's what forgiveness does for us - it gives us life and healing by forgiving those who have wounded us.

Weekend prayer...

Lord, Lord - hear my prayer! Work in my heart and in my life so that I may forgive those who have "trespassed against me!" May I recall all the forgiveness You have poured out to me and extend it to those whom I believe are above forgiveness. May I realize that forgiveness is for me as it is allows me to show Your mercy and grace and it floods my soul with healing and life. In Jesus' name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for everyone -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

~1 Timothy 2:1-2 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Have you ever had a 'problem' with someone and you knew you should pray for them but just couldn't? I have. Numerous times.

When I finally submit to the Spirit, become obedient and pray for the person something happens. Oh, maybe not to the problem person, but generally to me. The Lord changes my heart and my attitude towards that person.

I'm not saying this person becomes my best, truest and most trusted confidant, but generally my heart is softened and I'm not quite as critical. I strive harder to consider what that person is going through - be it at work or at home. With all of this in mind, there are times that the best course of action to just to stay away from that person so that tempers and personalities don't flare.

Generally speaking, cats and dogs are natural enemies. They can and often do cohabitate together in the same home environment. But that's not saying that sometimes the cat doesn't take a swipe at the dog (and then act rather smug about it). I sometimes describe those personalities that I have difficulties with as "oil and water". And this means both of our personalities. They don't mix very well and will separate when left to themselves. And that is an OK thing. God has made each of us and our personalities - we are unique! Max Lucado wrote, "What makes us special is the signature of God in our lives."

My prayer...

Father God, Abba, Daddy... I am not perfect. You above all others know this to be true. Sometimes I have personality conflicts with others - be it at work or in the church. Lord, help me to bring these issues before you, to pray about them. Help me to remember that You love that person as much as You love me. I'm not asking that You change them, but change my heart and my attitude. In Jesus' name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

~2 Corinthians 4:16

Thoughts on today's verse...

The story is told of a little boy who watches his grandmother sit and read the Bible every day. When a friend asks him what she's doing, he replys, "She's cramming for finals!" As cute as the story maybe, the reality is that our outward man is perishing. My friends, life is terminal and none of us are getting out alive, should the Lord tarry.

'Aging ain't for sissys' has been attributed to Bette Davis and it's true. My body used to be my friend, then I hit fifty and low and behold, my body got a mind of its own and decided that parts of it would travel to places they didn't belong! Menopause was 'interesting,' need I say more? I refused to call them hot flashes and much preferred to call them 'power surges'.

For the past three years now at my annual eye exam, my eyes have changed so dramatically that I've needed to purchase new glasses. I love it when the doctor covers one eye and says, 'read the lowest line you can see.' I usually say, "I think it's an E, I think it's an L... I can't see the next... but I'm sure the next one is a T" Ah... the mysteries of aging.

Yet through all of these changing aspects of my aging and body changes, I've found a few profound truths. It is OK for us women to laugh at ourselves about our changing bodies and our changing roles in society. I've learned that I have some very dear friends and these are the ones I can count on when times get rough. I think this is where I should publically thank Roxanne for coming to my rescue at the emergency room when I had my heart attack. Thank you Rox! I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciated your being there with me, especially when my husband was out of town. And for your praying with and for me before they packed me into the helicopter.

And like the story at the beginning of the blog, I am reading the Bible more. I also find that I listen for the voice of God, even when it is a 'small, still voice' in the dark of night. My prayer is that I age with grace and dignity.

My prayer...

Well Lord, here we are in the fall of my life (or is it the beginning of winter?). It's been quite a ride, hasn't it? Thank You so much for my friends, the ones here and the ones in blog land. They truly are a gift from You. I pray Father, that I may encourage them as much as they encourage me. Thank You too, for the wisdom that comes with aging and that You have given me the ability to speak the truth. It's in Jesus' name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Those who are right with God, will live by faith.

~Habakkak 2:4 NIRV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Then one might ask, "so, what does it take to be right with God?" That's a very good question. Perhaps it is best summed up in that forgiveness is about God's grace, His redemptive work through Jesus Christ and our ability to accept it. It's almost too simple. Surely there is something I'm required to do? Some act, some work, some 'thing'... No, just asking for His forgiveness, repenting and following are basically it.

The living by faith is then put into action by our lives and the way we live them, so that other's might observe. And that has always been the frightening part to me - being an ambassador for Christ. What if I am the only Jesus they may ever see? Will I draw them to, or drive them away? Our families are watching... our co-workers are watching... our communities are watching... I personally have to get over that obstacle, because more importantly Jesus is watching.

My prayer...

Lord God, Father God - hear my prayer! Help me to get over the "what will other people think" mentality and to only be concerned with what You think. If I am pleasing to You in my life, in my work, then perhaps others will be drawn to You. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
~1 Corinthians 15:57

Thoughts on today's verse...

Sometimes in our church, they will sing some of the old hymns - Faith is the Victory, Victory in Jesus. Frankly, there have been times in my life that I have felt so defeated that I couldn't join the congregation in singing those songs. I would just stand there and listen to the words, but I felt so dejected and alone, I suppose... Everyone around me was singing about victory and I wanted to know where it was and how to get it!

I have come to believe that it's a lot like being an athlete. Athletes go through grilling practices for what ever their speciality is. Then, they compete against others who are performing the very same speciality. Sometimes they win and sometimes they don't. But, they finish the race, the course, the event.

It reminds me of an Olympic event a number of years ago. His name was Derrick Redman. He was a runner for Great Britain in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. He tried to make it in the 1988 summer Olympics but he was injured and he had to make a decision, “Do I go through all the work for four more years to get to the 92 Olympics?” But he made a decision to run again to honour his father who had supported him all of his life.

Derek qualified for the 1992 Olympics which was an amazing feat since he had undergone twenty-two surgeries on his Achilles’ tendon. He qualified to be in the semi finals of the men’s 440 meter race. He was in one of the center lanes, the gun fired and he shot out of the blocks leading the pack. 140 metres down the track he was in a strong position when his hamstring gave way. He collapsed to the ground in a ball of pain and tears. Medics ran out to assist him but Redman waved them away. He was determined to finish the race, even if he couldn't’t win it. And so he crawled and hobbled his way along the track.

There was a commotion in the crowd and a man ran down from the grandstands. He pushed his way through the security guards and ran on to the track towards his son. It was Jim Redman, Derrick’s father. He placed an arm around Derek. “You don’t have to do this” Jim told his son. “Yes I do” Derek replied. “Well then” said Jim, “we’re going to finish this together”. Just before they reached the finish line, with the crowd screaming in support, Jim Redmond let his son go, so that he could cross the line on his own.

After the race Derrick Redman was interviewed and he said “My father was the only person who could have helped me, because he understood everything that I had been through.” (From Deeper Still by phil mccallum.) I so remember watching this event and I'm still moved to tears when I think about it or read a reference to it. I believe today's verse is an encouragement for us to finish the race, or the event, after all, Christ is the victor!

My prayer...

Abba Father, some days it is difficult to feel the victory and so much easier to claim defeat. May we remember that it is You who is the victor. Thank you for the example of Derrick Redman and his father, Jim Redman. May we always remember that like Jim Redman, You, our heavenly Father, are there to help us cross the finish line. In Jesus' name ~ Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

May the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful.

~Psalm 68:3 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Glad? Happy? Joyful? I've never considered this before, but isn't that a thought? Being glad, happy and joyful before God. I'm sure you know exactly what I'm talking about. We all have friends in our lives that make us feel just that way - glad, happy and joyful just to be around them. And then we have the others... those who make us feel just the opposite. Those who suck the very life from us in some parasitic form.

When we are around those who "lift us up" we feel invigorated, full of life and able to do anything. It is almost as if we are energized by being in their presence. (This is the extreme opposite of the other type of friend - that kind of relationship drains us.) I've even attended churches that can be described as those two extremes. I don't think I have to tell you which I prefer!

That is my prayer for you today - being glad, happy and joyful before God!

My prayer...

Father God, I lift all my blog-land friends up to You this day. May they rejoice before You. May they be glad, happy and joyful before You. Then may this spill over into their day. May their families, those in the market place and those at work sense their gladness, happiness and joy! In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Weekend Edition

Today's Verse

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7 NLT

Comments and thoughts on today's verse...

There is a praise and worship song I just love, in fact, it sometimes moves me to my knees and to tears. It is called 'The Cares Chorus' or sometimes 'The Burdens Song'. Here are the words:

I cast all my cares upon You
I lay all of my burdens down at Your feet
and any time that I don't know what to do
I will cast all my cares upon You

This little chorus is exactly what I believe this verse in First Peter is about.

And so, that is my prayer for all of my blogger friends this weekend - cast all of your cares, all of your worries, all your anxiety, and all of your burdens upon the Lord. Lay them at His feet.

In your mind's eye, imagine that you have placed all those things, those issues that trouble your spirit in an ornate, carved box. Now close the lid and slowly carry this box to the feet of Christ. Now, lay it down. Slowly, open the box and like the woman with the alabaster vase full of perfume, take out the burdens one-by-one and place them upon his feet. May you smell the sweet perfume, the fragrance of release as one-by-one, the Lord takes up your burdens.

My prayer...

Abba, Father, Daddy... on this day at this very moment, I do cast all of my cares and all of my burdens upon You. May You find pleasure in this, the gift I offer to You - trust. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

When you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you.

~Jeremiah 29:12 NRSV

Thoughts on today's verse...

"I can't hear you, I can't hear you, la la la la la!" an angry and upset child might cry out. When in actuality they probably did hear us and just didn't want to acknowledge it in their anger. And so here we are, sometimes in a very similar situation with God, thinking that He won't hear us, perhaps because He's angry with us... and perhaps maybe we do have something coming between us, that ugly thing called sin. But, all we have to do is confess that and He will again hear our prayers.

Sometimes the things that keep us from prayer is intimidation - I don't sound like "So-and-So" when I pray, she's so eloquent and I'm not. Girl Friends, I'm here to tell you He will hear our prayers - the thankful one, the not so thankful ones, the good, the bad and even the ugly ones. Even when we call out in anger for the Lord to 'smite' someone who has angered us, He hear those prayers too (although He may not answer them).

He hears all our prayers because they acknowledge we believe that He is in control. No matter what the circumstance -- He is still there and He is still in control!

My prayer...

Lord, I'm so glad You are in control, especially those times when I am not. I'm so glad that You hear my prayers, even the ones uttered in anger. I especially thank You for not answering some of my prayers - I probably wouldn't have been able to live with myself, had You. Thank You, Lord, for being the God of all creation. In Jesus' name ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of heart and my portion forever.

~Psalm 73:26

Thoughts on today's verse...

"My flesh and my heart may fail..." and sometimes they do. My flesh - as in the physical adversities and my heart - as in the spiritual rumblings. Sometimes I am weak, and that is when God is my strength. Just like our little children's' song "Jesus loves me, this I know... they are weak, but He is strong. Yes Jesus loves me, yes Jesus loves me, yes Jesus loves me, the Bible tells me so!"

There have actually been times in my life when I've simply had to sing that simple little children's' song to myself. And it is that simple - Jesus does love me! What a profound truth and such a humbling thought.

So, how about you? Is He your strength? Do you know that He loves you? Wonderful! Now, how about a rousing chorus of 'Jesus Loves Me!"

My prayer...

Abba, Daddy... You do love me, don't You? That is such an amazing thought, that the God of all creation could love me, yes, even me. I ask now, that in Your holiness, you surround me with Your love and Your peace. Fill me with Your Spirit as I go through my day's activities. May I be ever mindful that I belong to You. In Jesus' name ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

You must hold on, so you can do what God wants and receive what he has promised.
~Hebrews 10:36 NCV

Thoughts on today's verse...

I have to tell you, I was taken aback by the reference to the bible type (NCV). I thought and thought and all I could come up with was "Nearly Correct Version?" So I had to look it up and it's the New Century Version!

Now for my thoughts... holding on... have you ever seen the picture of the kitten hanging from a tree branch and caption was "Hang in there!"? Sometimes that's what being a Christian is like. We extend ourselves and our faith by really "going out on a limb" and then just find that we're hanging there and we're not sure what we're supposed to do next. And that can be a difficult and uncomfortable position to find ourselves in. Especially when we look around and find the more seasoned Christians seem to know exactly what to do and how to do it. I know there have been so many times when I just wanted to retreat, to hide from view. I seemed "so less than" in my faith.

But this scripture is admonishing us to keep on holding on! If we persevere, we will find what it is the Lord is calling us to do, be it ministering to a women's group or cleaning the toilets at church (which by the way, I feel is a very admirable thing to do and very under appreciated!). If we do this, then we will receive that which He has promised.

My commentary read that this chapter in Hebrews is an exhortation to be constant and persevere, the example of Christ is set forth and the gracious design of God in all the sufferings believers have endured. All this does not in the least mean that any souls who sorrow for sin will be shut out from mercy, or that any will be refused the benefit of Christ's sacrifice, who are willing to accept these blessings. Him that cometh unto Christ, he will in no wise cast out. (Heb 10:32-39). Mercy, sweet mercy! And isn't that just what we need ?

My prayer...

Father God, Abba, give me strength to persevere and mercy when I need it most, which is more often than naught! And Lord, may I find exactly what it is You want for me to do. In Jesus' name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

If we please God, He will make us wise, understanding, and happy.
~Ecclesiastes 2:26 CEV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Who among us doesn't want to be wise, understanding, and happy? I certainly do! But I'm also certain that I don't always please Him. There are times I falter and fall so short of the mark... and there are the other times when 'I know that I know that I know' that I please God.

When I please God, I have this vision in my head of a little girl learning a new task and how her parents beem with pride and pleasure. It's like remembering when my own children learned something new like learning to read, memorize a piece of poetry or sing a solo. How much pride and pleasure I felt. And I want, I desire that God be pleased with me too.

My prayer...

Oh Lord, my God - may I ever seek to please You and may I not be so concerned with pleasing 'man'. May my heart seek You diligently. In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you.
~Psalm 33:22 NIV

Thought's on today's verse...

Do you believe the above verse? Or, do you have faith in the above verse? There is a difference between belief and faith. Though they are very closely related, they have an important difference.

In checking the Encarta online dictionary, the definition of belief is "the acceptance of truth about something". But faith goes beyond acceptance. Faith is believing what we cannot see, what isn't tangible, and in some cases even that which just doesn't make any sense. And sometimes when the awful and unthinkable happens in our lives, we will need to have faith that the Lord has unfailing love for us. And that's something we can believe in!

My prayer...

Lord God, help me to discern the difference between belief and faith, but to hold fast to each! In Your name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Weekend Edition

The weekend verse

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 NLT

Thoughts on the weekend verse...

The second sentence of this verse holds so true -'Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows'. And this applies for all of us, I'm sure. But it is the beginning and ending sentences of this verse that give us hope and consolation. Our peace is in the Lord and He has overcome the world.

The bible is a book consisting of many books and if we're familiar with it, we can find hope for continuing on in the face of adversity and we know the final outcome! In very simplistic terms, good prevails and evil is defeated - Amen! But in the mean time, we will have or experience many trials and sorrows... Jesus himself was described as 'a man of sorrows, acquainted with much grief' (Isaiah 53:3).

Should our lives be any different than the one whom we strive to follow? I know there are some religions that preach 'health, wealth and prosperity' but I just can't reconcile that belief or philosophy with the word of God. Trust me, I'm not saying that I'm right, but I have yet to find that specific teaching in the bible.

I do believe that God will use our trials and sorrows in molding us into His image and to allow us to minister to others who may be experiencing like situations. Again, I think this is in line with the Jewish tradition of 'sitting shiva' with another person who is sorrowing. I think it is important to remember that when we are going through these times that we remember they are just 'times' or seasons that we are passing through.

For now, my season of illness and recovery are past, I have received clearance to return to work on Monday. However, I am so aware that even though I may be doing all the things my cardiologist recommends - eating a 'no fat, no cholestrol, low sodium, if it tastes good - spit it out' diet and exercising daily - I could still fall over dead with another heart attack tomorrow, or even today. But I'm good with that. You see, Jesus and I have had some real quality time beginning with the helicopter transport on June 10th. I am His and He is mine.

My prayer...

Abba Father, Lord of all heaven and earth - hear my prayer. May I be a good ambassador for You and christianity. May I reflect You well when experiencing trials or sorrows in my walk. May I be filled with Your Spirit so that I may discern when someone else is sorrowing or having trials in their life. May I be able to minister to them. In Jesus' name ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other.

~Ecclesiastes 7:14 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Today's verse has some very profound implications. It would be so much easier to think that only the good things happen to those who are believers and the bad things happen to those who reject God. Some people will even tell us that the reason we are sick or have an illness is because we have unconfessed sin in our lives. (I'm not sure, but I think these persons may be related to Job's friends!)

The above verse makes it very clear that God has made one as well as the other. Now why would that be? Perhaps it's because we, with our little finite minds wouldn't be able to appreciate and enjoy the good times without having experienced the bad times. (Vinegar and sugar, Marcy?) And then again, are we able to praise God for even the "bad" things in our lives? One of my blogging friends, Diana, said that she has problems praying when times are bad. I have the very same problem. When the difficulties come, I tend to retreat, to hide. I find I can't pray and I can't read the bible. That is when music - praise and worship music reaches me in the depth of my despair. One such song is "I Will Sing" by Don Moen. And have you ever noticed that some praise and worship music are simply prayers set to music?

Even older hymns like "It Is Well With My Soul" written by Horatio Spafford are prayers of praise. If you don't know the history behind this hymn, I encourage you to do a little Internet research. It was written out of extreme loss and suffering. (I've even changed the music to these two songs, may they minister to your souls.)

I am still striving to learn the principle that God allows the "bad" things in our lives so that others may see the manner in which we handle them. Otherwise, how will they know the difference in the way believers handle unpleasant circumstances verses the unbelieving?

My prayer...

My Lord and my God, when the bad things, the unpleasant circumstances come my way, may my words, my behaviors, and my actions reflect You. May I seek to praise You in spite of the circumstance.

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

~Ephesians 6:18 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Beginning in verse 10, this passage talks about 'being strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might, putting on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil' (the enemy).

Then it begins to describe the armor - having girded your loins with truth and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, having shod your feet with preparation of the gospel of peace, and finally the shield of faith - to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil one. Then it comes to verse 17 and we are told to take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Have you ever noticed, there's no covering for the backside! Evidently, we're not to turn our backs to the enemy!)

Then we finally come to today's verse and are admonished about prayer and even the different types of prayer. On a personal note when praying in the Spirit, for me this is praying when I don't know how or what to pray for, the the Spirit will cry out to God on my behalf. Romans 8:26 says, "...for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words..." When I am so deeply distraught over something and just don't know how to pray - that's when the Spirit comes to my aid.

My prayer...

Abba, Father... there are times when I don't know how to pray as I should. I'm lost for words, they just don't come and I am in emotional turmoil over some situation. That is when the Spirit intercedes on my behalf. I so appreciate Your provision for this gift! Thank you, in Jesus Name ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

God said, "I set My rainbow in the cloud...and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.

~Genesis 9:13, 15

Thoughts on today's verse...

I love Arizona rainbows! I've always loved rainbows, even when I lived in Ohio, but the Arizona rainbows just take my breath away. Normally they are a 180 degree arch, brilliant in color and hue and usually a double rainbow. They are wonderful to behold! And generally rare since Arizona doesn't get much rain.

According to the book of Genesis (and today's verse) the rainbow was a gifted reminder of God's covenant with Noah (and all the rest of humankind). A covenant, a promise that devastating flooding would never overtake the world again. Yes, our world still experiences floods, but not total global devastation. I appreciate so much the covenant, the promise of God. And this isn't His only covenant with us.

When my daughter was little, we had our own covenant. We would "pinkie swear" and we called it "love's honor." It was a solemn promise we would make to each other. One or the other of us would kiss our pinkie finger, hold it up and say, "Love's honor?" and the other would do likewise and then we would wrap our pinkie around the other's pinkie to solidify the covenant. My daughter was always so serious about "love's honor" and it's implication.

If my daughter and I were so serious about our family covenant, how serious is God about His covenants with us? Pardon the pun, but dead serious I'd say. After all, through His covenant provision, He provided us with the opportunity for eternal life through His son, Jesus Christ.

My prayer...

Oh Lord, color my world with rainbows so that I may recall Your covenant promises to Your people. Thank you for today's remembrance of 'love's honor'. I hadn't thought about that for years. What a wonderful opportunity to share this as a tradition with my grandchildren! In Jesus' name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Honor God by accepting each other, as Christ has accepted you.
~Romans 15:7 CEV

Thoughts on today's verse...

In re-reading this verse, then reading from verse 1 - 13, in its context I believe that it is telling us to accept those into our fellowship of believers who may not be as "mature" as we may be. And also for others to accept us even if we don't appear to be a "mature" as they are. This being written to Jew and Gentile alike.

It is also addressing the issue of diversity. The believing Jews wanted this new belief to be only for them and they didn't want to accept the Gentiles unless they were willing to perform some of the Jewish customs (for example circumcision).

The author of Romans (the Apostle Paul) is saying, "Hold on a minute, think this through with me... if Christ has accepted you, He also has accepted those who believe in Him, though of a different culture, race or former belief system."

Frankly, we seem to gravitate to those churches where the members are "like us." I've not attended many churches where the population is a diverse mixture of cultures and races. However, I have attended women's conferences with a wonderful mix of cultures and races and loved the diverse styles of worship! Amen!

If we go back to the book of Acts, chapter 8 verses 26 - 39, we see where Philip ministered and shared the gospel with an Ethiopian eunuch. This Ethiopian was one of the first converts to Christianity and obviously, he wasn't a Jew. I think it's important for us to reach across culture and racial differences for the cause of Jesus Christ. Diversity is touted as a recent societal issue, but it is mentioned all through the bible.

My prayer...

My Lord and My God, may I seek diversity within the house of worship. May I become more inclined to listen and to love those of a different culture and race. May I have the heart of Mother Theresa and be willing to serve and minister to those who are so different from me. In Jesus name, I pray! ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
~1 Thessalonians 5:18

Thoughts on today's verse...

Now that's a tall order! In everything... give thanks? What about marital difficulties or divorce? What about illness and cancer? What about the death of a child? What about infertility? What about an innocent person being sentenced to prison? What about a guilty person not having to serve prison time? So many injustices... and yet the Word tells us to give thanks? Wouldn't God know we were just giving Him 'lip service' and not meaning it from the depths of our soul?

I may not be able to give thanks for some of the above issues if they haven't affected me personally, but I can cultivate an attitude of thankfulness for God's work in me as I try to glean the lessons of loss. And some of those trials I've experienced have made me the person I am today.

Today is the two month point since I had the 'heart attack'. It was quite the wake up call. Merely two weeks before it, I had asked our Women's Group to pray for me, as I wanted to quit smoking. I told them I just wanted the Lord to remove it. Little did I know His plans to remove it! And you need to understand, smoking was my 'best friend' for a number of years. It was always there when everyone else walked out or away, comforted me when no one else would or could. But my 'friend' demanded a great price - financially, physically, emotionally and socially.

Well, it's been two months now and my 'friend' and I have parted ways. There are times I miss my 'friend' and desire to have that relationship reinstated... but all I have to do is recall the first two weeks without cigarettes and I don't want to go through that again! I praise and thank God that He brought me face-to-face with my addiction. I am healthier now, walking two - three miles intentionally six days a week. I can breathe without effort. And now, I can even ride a bike around the block and run for about 500 feet! What a vast improvement. I'm still waiting to be 'released' by my cardiologist so I can return to work. I miss my work and the service I provide in my specialized library.

My prayer...

Lord God, there are so many things in this world that we believe are injustices. Help me to not get caught up in them and be brought down by them. When I see these things in a person's life, I can bring it before Your throne of grace. But as for the trials I've experienced... thank you! They are being used to mold me and shape me into a new and improved version that will hopefully reflect You! ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

P.S. There was no posting over the weekend. It was quite busy with both grandbabies here. A two year old and three year old take a lot more energy than I remember. We usually have only one, so I'm thinking of just posting a "weekend edition". Hugz to you all!

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

A merry heart does good, like a medicine.
~Proverbs 17:22

Thoughts on today's verse...

In doing a little internet research on laughter, and there is plenty out there, I came upon this gem: "Laughter is the best medicine, so is marijuana a medical miracle?" Frankly... it made me laugh! So here is my edited and condensed version of the article. (Even though I came of age during the 60's and 70's... I still work in law enforcement and I don't think smoking anything can be good for you!)

Laughter heals. It promotes and strengthens communion with others, refreshes perspective to make it easier to deal with difficult situations, and even fosters health on a physical level.

Laughter is an agent of social connection and bonding. It relaxes and liberates, dissolving the defenses with which we keep others at a distance. When we laugh with others, we feel closer to them making the time we spend with them rewarding, and so motivating us to spend more time together.

The article was written by Dr. Beverley Potter and can be found at: http://www.treatingyourself.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=38034

My prayer...

Oh Lord, my God - let us laugh! At ourselves and with each other (and not at each other). When things become so serious that tension and fear is about to boil over, let us find the humor and laugh unabashedly! You, the Creator of all heaven and earth know us intimately. You know how laughter can help and defray emotion. Thank you for the gift of laughter and humor! ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

God's love will continue forever.
~Psalm 52:1

Thoughts on today's verse...

Isn't that verse and the thought of it encouraging? No matter how far we roam, no matter how we stray from the path, God will love us forever. This is so encouraging in a world that places such conditions upon us. Perhaps the conditions are based on our performance or work outcome, maybe it's how we compare to the women in advertising and magazines. Perhaps the conditions are self-imposed and center around our homes and how our children behave (or in some cases don't behave). Maybe we are using the computer formula "IF - THEN", so if we do "this", then "this" will happen.

Girl Friends, I've got good news! God isn't a computer with formulas! And His love will continue forever. So why do we have trouble grasping this simple concept? Could it be that the problem lies in the difference between what we believe and what we think? We may very well believe in our hearts that God loves us forever, but in our heads we sometimes think in a way that creates roadblocks to our faith. The biggest difference between thinking with our heads and our hearts is about 18 inches... and it causes our faith to be shaky.

God will meet us where we are in our own faith, and His love will continue forever!

My prayer...

Abba Father, as I come before You this morning, meet me where I am. Merge my heart and my mind so I know, that I know, that I know... In Jesus name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel.

~Proverbs 1:5 NASB

Thoughts on today's verse...

The older I get, the more I realize I can learn from others' mistakes. I don't have to 'learn the hard way' as I did in my youth! I also think that as we age it is easier for us to think through the consequences of our actions.

The above verse reminds me of the importance of discipleship and mentoring in our walk with the Lord. If we find a brother or sister who has a good reputation and is spiritually mature, they might be just the person we want to seek out or 'hang' with. They may be a bible study leader, Sunday school teacher or just someone that you may ask if they would pray with you on a regular basis or mentor you in some capacity.

When we're children, we learn by observation and imitation - playing 'dress up' or 'school'. As Christians, we can also learn in the same manner. We know instinctively those whom we don't want to become like and conversely, those whom we do wish to become like. Proverbs 27:17 reads, "Iron sharpens iron. So one man sharpens another." Seek out a mentor, a confidant who can help you grow spiritually. (I do recommend a same sex mentor so nothing inappropriate can be implied.) Or, become a mentor to someone!

My prayer...

Lord God, lead me to another woman who will help and challenge me to grow in my faith. Not in a classroom setting, but someone who will meet with me one-on-one. Someone to whom I can pour out my heart and my soul and all those things I struggle with. Someone who will not be judgemental, but will lead me to the Word so I can see what you have to say about it... In Jesus name I pray ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

We walk by faith, not by sight.
~2 Corinthians 5:7

Thoughts on today's verse...

One day last week while using the community walking path, I happened to see a woman with her white cane and service dog. Now that gave me cause for pause! I have enough trouble maneuvering the path with its turns, curves and choices for a round-about walk uphill and past the cemetery, or even across the roadway. Truly, this was walking by faith - figuratively and literally!

This is a good illustration, but that's not quite what this scripture has in mind, is it? This passage is speaking of our assurance of life after... life. Verse 6 begins, "Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord - for we walk by faith, not by sight - we are of good courage. I say and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. Therefore also we have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him." and ending in verse 21, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God to Him." All I can say is "WOW".

Now that is walking by faith and not by sight - knowing and believing that we might become the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus AND have a heavenly destination.

My prayer...

Abba, Father, Pappa... strengthen me that I may walk by faith and not by sight. I don't want to be like Peter trying to walk upon the water to Jesus. He began to sink when he took his eyes off Him and started looking at the storm that was raging all about him. May my focus be Christ. In Jesus name I pray. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

~Colossians 3:12 NIV

Thoughts on today's verse...

It's difficult for me to consider myself "holy". I have to remember that holy means to be set apart for God's use. It is nothing, absolutely nothing that I do that causes me to be holy. It is all God and His provision for my salvation through Jesus Christ that makes me holy. God is looking at me through His son.

Then the verse tells us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. That's a tall order! And there are times that I can reflect those qualities. Did you catch that? R-E-F-L-E-C-T And that is what we have to do, because those qualities belong to Christ and if we are trying to be Christ-like, then we are attempting to reflect Him. Oh, but those other times when I am depending upon my own strength to show those qualities... it just doesn't happen.

My prayer...

Lord God, Heavenly Father... cleanse me from all those things that interfere with our relationship. Forgive me Lord, for my selfish humanity, for my flesh. Help me to reflect you and the attributes described in today's verse. May I be compassionate, kind, gentle, patient and may I show humility. In Jesus name I pray ~Amen.

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

Lord, you are my shield, my wonderful God who gives me courage.
~Psalm 3:3 NCV

Thoughts on today's verse...

Meditating upon this verse, I believe I can relate to it! I am not real good with heights, so having to travel via helicopter over our beautiful Mt. Graham to Tucson Medical Center was n0t on my list of the top ten things I want to accomplish in my lifetime! I really thought I'd have another heart attack! The anxiety level was unbelievable - until... until I closed my eyes and began a running narrative to God. Alright, so maybe the narrative was actually recalling scripture verses and prayer. But I have to tell you, I could literally feel my blood pressure lowering and the anxiety pouring out of my body and exiting via my feet! I was filled with peace, sweet peace. Even though I didn't know the outcome, I knew the Lord was with me.

Here where we live in southeastern Arizona it is a valley, surrounded by mountains. Whenever we are away from home on vacation, I'm always anxious to return. I feel as if the panoramic mountains are welcoming me with a "hug". Psalm 121 verses 1 and 2 read, "I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth." This verse, my friends, is the one that sustained me during the helicopter flight.

My prayer...

Father God, in times of great duress - comfort me. Recall to my mind scripture that will calm and reassure me. Fill me with Your peace. ~Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara

Today's Devotional Scripture

Today's Verse

The darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining
~1 John 1:8

Thoughts on today's verse...

When one or the other of our grandkids spend the night with us, we always put a nightlight in the room they are sleeping in. That way, if they awaken during the night perhaps they won't be so frightened when they realize it isn't their own bedroom. And there have been times in the wee hours of the morning that one or the other wakes us up with soft crying and sobbing. So we go to them, pick them up and comfort them until they can calm down and return to dreamland. Soon, it's morning and the sun is up and shining and their night terrors are forgotten.

Like today's verse, morning is coming for us, also! Our night terrors of darkness will be forgotten and we will be in eternal light. What a wonderful thought. We will be in the presence of our Lord and Savior - what comfort and peace that will be. As we care for our children and grandchildren, how much more so the Lord will care for us!

My prayer...

Abba, Father - comfort us with Your light! May the darkness and terror of our lives be replaced with Your light. Amen!

Yours, because we're His,

Tamara