Loved by God

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Loved by God Part 1 - God Loves You

by Gail Rodgers
“God, they say you love us, but do you really mean me?”

“God loves you!” We hear it from time to time. Sometimes it is offered as somewhat of a bandaid to a difficult problem we face. Sometimes it’s on a billboard or on a grandmother’s lips. But does it really make much difference if He does or if He doesn’t? And if God really does love me, does it actually affect me where I live and walk today? Does God’s love matter in any practical way to me?
Most of us have no trouble believing in a higher power. Nearly every 10-step help program acknowledges the need of it. Most people say, “Yes” when asked if they believe in God, but that’s often about as far as it goes. Little rituals, memorized prayers, desperate pleas for God to get us out of the scrapes we get ourselves into, seems to be the extent most of us know God.
Yet His Word, the Holy Bible, tells of a very loving God who longs to be in relationship with us. The Father’s heart, to us, His children, is tender. His arms are open and His invitation is “Come”.
“Come to me all you who are heavy burdened and I will give you rest…for your souls”. Matthew 28 & 29
Sometimes we cannot hear His call to “come”. Sometimes our filters are clogged with the sad truth that our own father may not have provided a good example of loving us. Sometimes we do not believe His love could be for us as an individual. Oh, we know others whom God could surely love, but me? “No”, we think, “not if He really knew me.”
There are times in our lives when God calls our name. He asks us not to harden our hearts to Him, but to respond and to come.
“God loves you” is a deeply profound statement that will change your life if you will let it. Dare to explore with me the depth of this love. Dare to turn your head and hear Him calling your name. You will never be sorry.

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Loved by God Part 02 - I Don't Deserve It

by Gail Rodgers
A tear glistened in the corner of her eye. She had never been told God’s love was for her personally.

Oh how she wanted to believe God loved her. But she felt she had no right to ask Him anything. She had never acknowledged Him before. And life had been hard. Choices of others and her own choices had left deep pain and scars on her heart. Oh, very few knew and she held it all together in an amazing way. But she knew it was often by a thin thread… and she longed to feel that love and acceptance by God; that peace. But she felt so undeserving… so separated from His love. She didn’t know God’s Word, the Bible, actually addressed that very feeling. It told her that nothing could separate her from God’s love. It was for her too!!
“Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:39
Do you feel separated from God’s love? No matter what has happened in your life up to this moment, remember that there is no dimension, no action, no power, no place out of His reach; there is nothing that is a barrier to God’s love for you. Believe it. It is the first step to understanding who you really are. It is the first step to hope and to healing. Believe it! Hear Him call your name!
prayer & reflection

Father in Heaven,
Thank you that you love me! Thank you that you have seen my life from the beginning to this very moment and there is nothing hidden from you. Through all the good days and all the bad days you have been there, loving me and waiting for me to accept your love. No matter how unworthy I feel today, help me to believe that nothing separates me from your love. Help me to grow in understanding your love and learn to accept myself as loved by You! Teach me to see myself as you see me!
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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Loved by God Part 3 - The Hole in the Fence

by Gail Rodgers
Peering through the hole in the fence, the little girl watched what she could of the exciting game. She had always longed to play herself! She imagined herself inside and strained to see as much of the field as she could from her limited view point. Suddenly someone tapped her on the shoulder… “Would you like to go in? Here, I’ve paid your way”. A woman with a kind face handed the little girl a ticket. The girl could hardly believe it as she walked through the gate and the sights and sounds surrounded her.

Often we see others enjoying a relationship with God but just don’t know how to experience it for ourselves. We linger outside. Often deceived by our own thinking.
Sometimes we focus on our own circumstances and we blame God for all the things that have gone wrong. We keep focused on ourselves. Sometimes we keep God at such a respectable distance that He is untouchable. Sometimes we realize our lack of virtue and simply think it can’t be for us. Lots of reasons can leave us peering longingly through the hole in the fence, outside of God’s presence. Once you believe His love is real and personal you can move from being a longing spectator right into His presence as His treasured child.
The ticket was bought for you when Jesus died on the cross. You simply need to believe you are invited because the price has been paid. Paid out of love for you! Don’t focus on you… focus on God and His forgiveness and His open arms. Simply say, “I’m sorry God, I’ve messed up. Please forgive me.” This is taking the ticket in your hand and entering the gate. Then He cleanses, He renews, and He begins to rebuild.
“If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1:9
Release your life and all your mistakes to God. Release your sin to Him. Answer the longing in your heart and know that you qualify to enter into a relationship with God… not because of you… but because of Him!
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
I need you. I’m sorry for going my own way. Please forgive me. I don’t want to peer through the hole in the fence any longer. Thank you that you accept me right here, just as I am. Please begin your work of renewing and rebuilding in my life.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 4 - Better Than You Know Yourself

by Gail Rodgers
“No one understands”, Katie thought as she struggled with feeling so alone in her decision. Everyone had advice about what she should do.

There were so many opinions. But no one understood the depth of the issue. An isolated feeling of loneliness crept into her soul. Did God even understand? Doubts of her belief in God’s love began to crowd her thinking. “God, show me that you are here,” she called out in despair.
That night she picked up her Bible before turning out the light… would she find hope? Her little daily reading book told her to read Psalm 139. Her fingers flipped through the pages and her eyes fell on these verses.
“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. You hem me in – behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me; your right hand will hold me fast… For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Psalm 139
Katie felt like fresh water was poured over her parched soul. Yes, God cared. Yes, God understood her in a way no one ever could.
God is familiar with your whole situation and He promised to hold you fast! He knows you!. When you were conceived God’s knitting needles went to work creating you in your inmost being. Yes, you can trust Him to guide you through whatever you face today. He understands.
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this knowledge that you care so deeply and know me so intimately. I will trust your knowledge of me and your hand to guide me. Give me your wisdom today. Hold on to me in my spinning world. Thank you for understanding me. You know me better than I know myself. Thank you for this comfort. Thank you that you are my trustworthy Father! I choose to trust you in my circumstances today!
In Jesus Name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 5 - God's Workmanship

by Gail Rodgers
“Have you ever thought of yourself as God’s Workmanship?”

The cutting words of her co-worker were hurtful and only contained half truths. What she said in front of the whole office was such a misrepresentation of the facts that Shirley actually felt ill. She was humiliated. She knew that simply having words said out loud about her did not make them true. But she had not counted on how insecure the incident left her. She knew office gossip was malicious at times but this was the first time she took the brunt of it… and it hurt. Usually strong and self confident, Shirley found herself shaken and feeling small. Her heart cried out to God with the injustice. And he answered the cry of her hurting heart…
“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10
“Wow!” she thought as she re-read the words and re-lived her day. Regardless of any gossip God was reassuring her. She was his workmanship. Created and designed by the Father to do things… good things… things that God already had planned out for her to do! The unsettled feeling of the day began to lift. She would go to work tomorrow as God’s workmanship, head held high. Her life itself would refute the distorted half truths. She would seek to do the things God had planned for her. She would watch for them and be available. Yes, she would call on him throughout the day to help her react in a manner fitting of God’s workmanship.
“God’s workmanship”! That’s you! His strength will carry you! He will walk beside you into your today with all its challenges. He will fulfill you with deeds planned for you. Ask him to show you one small thing to do for him today. Others will try to define “who” you are by their words and their actions toward you, but know “whose” you are and let your confidence soar at the thought!
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the reassurance that I am your workmanship. You, the God of the universe, have a stake in my future! Wow! You have things prepared for me to do because you know best who I am and what will fulfill me. Thank you that I am yours! Help me walk today in the confidence of knowing you have a purpose for me and you will guide and help me.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 6 - Free Forever

by Gail Rodgers
It never seemed to be far from her mind. Though the years had passed the guilt had not. It had never become public knowledge and for that she was grateful. But the feeling of shame clung.

Oh yes, she understood God loved her and had even forgiven her. But condemnation often crept into her thoughts so unexpectedly. Would she never be free of it even though she knew Jesus?
The verse leapt off the page. Could this be true… for her? She read it over.
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1
Yes! All of a sudden it made new sense to her. She was God’s child. She had accepted Jesus forgiveness. There was no longer any condemnation for her! This verse told her that through Jesus she was set free! She underlined it in her Bible. The next time guilt threatened to overtake her and drag her down, she turned to the underlined words and breathed a prayer of thankfulness that condemnation was no longer a part of her identity.
Jesus has forgiven you and you can finally let go of the self condemnation that has held you too long. He has set you free! Whenever the doubts nibble at the edge of your mind, say out loud this verse of God’s promise.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
You have forgiven my past. Thank you. I release to you the condemnation that I so often dwell on in my own soul. Thank you that condemnation is not a part of my identity as a follower of Jesus. Thank you that through you I am set free! Please help me to set my mind on the amazing truth of your word and live in the victory you have given me.
In the name of Jesus, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 7 - Beyond Your Wildest Dreams

by Gail Rodgers
They were separated. The rift was huge. She began to make plans as to how she would support herself. He went his way. That would have been the end of the story… but for God.

She had friends who prayed with her. Weekly they met and sought the help and wisdom of God for their friend in distress. Daily she asked God to give her insight that she did not have. Daily she asked God for a smile on her face for her little one. Sometimes hourly she cried out to God to stabilize her shaky body and mind. And God met her needs. Throughout the storm He was her anchor. Oh the tears flowed through some sleepless nights… but God was her strength. Little by little, time and again he led her to a resource, an insight, an encouragement.
“Now to him (Jesus) who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20
More than just surviving! More than just getting by! More than just hanging in there! God was giving her strength, wisdom and insight. He was holding her through the storm. There were tears and it was hard. But the peace that held her heart was an anchor for her soul. Yes, God’s power at work gave her more than she could imagine!
Believe God today for more than you can even imagine in whatever situation tears at your heart. If you are facing a challenge or even a crisis, invite Jesus to be at work in power in your situation. Get help from praying friends to seek God and focus on Him. Ask for increased faith and watch with expectancy. God’s love and encouragement can lift you up when you don’t even think it’s possible! And when you look back on your journey and see how he has anchored your soul… give him the glory!
prayer & reflection

Father God,
As your child you offer me so much more than I can ever imagine. Your power at work within me is an amazing miracle. Help me to connect with those who will encourage me to cling to you in the storms of my life. Forgive my lack of faith and give me a tenacity of faith to look for you, to be amazed by you and to give you the glory when the horizon clears and I see how far you have brought me.
In Jesus strong name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 8 - Lavish Love

by Gail Rodgers
Life had taken a few turns. Unexpected losses had quietly stacked up until she felt that her God must be on vacation somewhere else. Others seemed to be receiving blessing from God but she felt short changed these days.

She began to feel that she had moved from under God’s wing to under God’s thumb… and quite subtly her view of God began to change. She hardly noticed it was happening. And her Bible sat more often on the shelf.
Then she heard a verse from the Bible… on a random snatch of a radio program while she was driving. God wanted her attention and the verse hit home in her heart.
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” I John 3:1
The word “lavished” caught her imagination. Suddenly she realized that she had begun to doubt God’s love and his goodness toward her. A God that lavishes his love on his children is not a God who wants to pin you under his thumb! He is a God that can be counted on to lovingly take us through this journey of life. A God that lavishes us with his love is a God that can be trusted to guide us on our way and to nudge us back on track when we wander.
If your life has some unexpected bumps these day, don’t doubt God’s love and care for you. He will lovingly bring his principles of living to your attention so you can correct your course when necessary. His love will lead you to the very best for your life if you trust him through the fog. Knowing he lavishes you with his love will keep your heart soft and your heart attitude looking for his goodness. Doubting the goodness of God toward you can harden your heart and move you in a direction that will tempt you to live life according to your own wisdom…wisdom that will always be less than God’s wisdom for you.
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
You know how easy it is for me to doubt you when I can’t see the path ahead of me clearly. Forgive me for letting my heart doubt you. Forgive me for my impatient nature. Thank you for reminding me that your love for me is so great and that I am your child. Show me the attitudes or actions that I have slipped into that don’t please you. I choose today to trust your goodness toward me. Give me assurance in my heart that you are at work in my circumstances. By faith I will trust you to guide me in what to do. Thank you Father.
I ask this in the name of Jesus, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 9 - Light Dispels Darkness

by Gail Rodgers
The negative talk was so easy to enter into too. Criticism came easily. Shirley was uncomfortable with it at first but now it just seemed the norm. It was so easy to just join in and add her two cents worth of negativity too. Then last Sunday she heard the pastor say that as a Christian, she was the light of the world! Now that was something to ponder! Whatever did that mean for her in her situation? She read the passage of scripture he had given…

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
Shirley realized something that was new to her…she was to let the light of Jesus love shine through her to those around her so that God would be revealed. In plain, Monday morning language she knew that meant she was to speak differently. Where negativity was the norm Shirley realized she was to bring light into that conversation and speak positive words that built up. She could bring a change where the shadows of darkness lurked. A light… yes a light that she had kept hidden… until today!
Do you find yourself participating in situations that drag people down by words or actions? Ask God to help you bring light into those places. Be sensitive to when His Spirit nudges you to say a kind word or counter the negative with the positive. Your attitudes and actions as well as your words can be used by God to push back the darkness that surrounds us where we live. You are a light!
prayer & reflection

Father in Heaven,
Thank you that you have declared me to be a light in this world. There is so much darkness in conversations, attitudes and situations all around me. Please give me wisdom by the power of your Holy Spirit to be what you say I am… a light. Help me to speak works that build up and to show attitudes and actions that will make a difference in the dark. Show me ways today to be your light!
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 10 - Never Alone

by Gail Rodgers
Susan would never have believed she could feel so lonely. The recent turn of events in her life left her feeling isolated and so alone!

Oh there were lots of faces to say a cheery “Good morning” too in the halls at work. But her soul longed for a friend. Someone to understand and share her journey with as she experienced these new changes and faced the loss she was feeling. She knew she was God’s child… but she did not understand why the loneliness was almost suffocating her. Each night she read her Bible before going to sleep. Tonight the words nearly flow off the page…
“Jesus said, “I no longer call you servants… Instead I have called you friends”. John 15:15
She let the words sink in for a few minutes. God had sent Jesus to be not only her Savior, but also her friend… and she could sure use a friend now! “Oh Jesus”, her heart cried out, “I need your friendship right now. Thank you that you see me as a friend. And she began to pour out the pain and the loneliness of her soul to him. As she turned out the light and talked long into the dark to her Friend, a comfort settled over her soul, the comfort of the Holy Spirit. The verse she had learned at her ladies Bible study last winter played in her mind as sleep came:
“Casting all your care on Him for He cares for you.” I Peter 5:7
Do you experience loneliness in the depths of your soul? Jesus calls himself your friend. Talk to him, pour your heart out to him, and ask for his strength and his wisdom. Invite him into every situation and decision and your life will take on a fullness that you never knew was possible. He will be true to his word. He calls you “Friend”!
prayer & reflection

Dear Father in Heaven,
Thank you for sending Jesus to be my Friend and my Savior. Help me today to remember that He is with me in every step I take. Help me to invite him into every decision and situation I face today. Please take the deep loneliness of my soul and comfort me with your Holy Spirit. Help me to grow today in my relationship with you and in trusting you to be my Friend.
Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 11 - Forgiven

by Gail Rodgers
She simply could not believe it. God could forgive her? If they really knew the truth about her life, she thought, they surly would not tell her that God was waiting for her with open arms!

Sometimes she wanted to run and hide from God. She felt she had blown it just too many times and in too many ways. But forgiveness sounded so refreshing! Her heart longed for it! Could it be possible for her?... Yes… she decided she would believe that God meant her. “I guess that’s faith” she thought with surprise. Faith had become only a distant memory in her heart. But she reached for God. And she prayed, laying it all out before Him, nothing hidden. With tears streaming down her face she confessed the mess her life was in and drank in forgiveness…It was a new day!
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
When we confess to God the ways in which we have blown it in life, the ways we have hurt and disappointed ourselves, others and God, He reaches out His hand and takes us on a journey of healing.
Forgiveness cleanses us in such a refreshing way, yet often the consequences of our old choices remain a real challenge. When you wake up on a Monday morning with the consequences of your old ways staring you in the face, God is there to walk with you. He not only forgives…He offers us the riches of His grace to walk where we walk and He promises to help.
“He redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.” Psalm 103:4
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
I confess my sin to you and I thank you for forgiving me. Thank you that your cleansing is a sure thing. And Father, thank you that you not only forgive my past but you promise to buy back my life and fill me with your love and your compassion. Increase my faith today, Lord. When the thoughts of the past come back to me, help me to stand firm on the knowledge of your forgiving love. Please help me when I am tempted to fall back into old patterns. May I daily trust your compassionate help to keep moving forward in my journey with You. Remind me daily to keep my heart focused on You and to quickly accept Your forgiveness for my failings. For it is in You that I know there is hope and help and healing. Thank you Father!
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 12 - For Your Own Sake

by Gail Rodgers
Susanna knew she should forgive. But the hurt and the anger still hung on in the deep corners of her heart. It went against her sense of justice and she secretly wished to see some kind of revenge. She somehow felt that if she forgave it was defeat.

Susanna couldn’t have been more wrong. As long as she held unforgiveness in her heart the hurting continued. The bitterness grew. She knew bitterness was creeping into her heart and she felt powerless over it.
Forgiveness is a choice. It is a choice you make for yourself. You don’t just forgive for someone else’s sake; you do it for your own sake. It is the only way to be free of the anger in the depth of your heart and the bitterness that is birthed from the betrayal.
When we hold unforgiveness in our heart it goes completely against God’s advice to us. He knows how we work because He made us. To take His word to heart is the road to healing.
“Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written, “It is mine to avenge, I will repay”, says the Lord.” Romans 12:19
If you have been wronged and it is hanging on and dragging your spirit down, acknowledge the hurt and the hate. Then make a choice to let the offending person off your hook. Release the situation to God’s care and know that they are not off God’s hook and He will deal fairly with them because He has promised you He will. Leave God to be the bill collector.
You will find a new freedom in your soul. Anger that is not dealt with brings poison into your soul and gives the enemy of your soul a foothold. God doesn’t tell us to never be angry. He does tell us to deal with our anger so it will not poison our soul. (Eph.4:26/27)
We often have to live with the consequence of the other person’s action against us whether we want to or not. But we choose whether we will do it in the downward spiral of bitterness or in the forward journey of forgiveness.
prayer & reflection

Dear Father in Heaven,
Today I acknowledge I have let anger come into my heart and stay there. Father God I feel the ugliness of bitterness growing in my spirit and I don’t want it there. I want to be free. Please help me to face what has happened and to release my desire to see revenge. Help me to be wise in dealing with the consequences of this action against me. I choose not to hang on to bitterness and anger. I choose to be filled with your Holy Spirit. Today I choose forgiveness. Father please heal the “feelings” in my heart as well.
In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 13 - Freedom from Shame

by Gail Rodgers
It was the first day of spring and we were horseback riding. Snow and spring ice still scattered the landscape. My horse decided he did not want a rider and he suddenly reared up on his hind legs. The spring ice was not a good spot for such a balancing act and over he went with me under him! I still marvel that I was not crushed to death!

I seldom think of that frightening afternoon anymore. But every now and then the memory is refreshed on rare days when the old injury to my rib bothers me. A bump or bruise causes that old injury to remind me that it’s there.
The same happens with old injuries to our spirit. Things far distant in our past… harsh words, actions, or misjudged situations of long ago, often surprise us with fresh pain when an emotional bump or bruise comes unexpectedly.
Sharon shared with me how she had forgiven her father for the rejection she felt as a young girl. Her adult mind could now comprehend some of her father’s own pain and God’s love in her heart had made what seemed impossible, possible. She could forgive him for his actions and his harsh words.
But she continued to find herself in unhealthy relationships with men. Always living in fear of rejection, she found herself making compromises that left her disappointed in herself. She realized she felt shame in the depth of her soul and it was affecting her life far beyond the long ago words and actions of her father. She began to realize that she had believed lies about herself as a result of those words and actions. Then she read this promise from God’s Word and hope sprang afresh in her heart…
... being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6
When God touches your life and begins a good work in you, He is committed to you. He promises to carry on the good work in your heart until it is completed. God can not only help you forgive, but He will continue on to help you root out the shame and the lies that keep you from being all God meant you to be.
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
Thank you that you promise to continue to work in my heart. Thank you that you enable me to forgive harsh words and actions against me. Father God, I realize today that as a result of those words and actions I began to believe lies about myself. Lies that I was unlovable & undeserving of love. Father God, today I ask that you would help me to reject those lies and their resulting shame. Show me every place I have believed a lie about myself. I accept your love and your healing and I ask you to fill me with your Holy Spirit. Thank you that you will carry on to completion the healing of my heart.
In the strong name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 14 - Habits that Hurt

by Gail Rodgers
Kelly loved pretty things. We all do. Just where it got out of hand she didn’t know. But the credit card bills were piling up and she was in trouble. Her stomach churned and she yelled at the kids. In short, she was a wreck worrying about how she would handle this full scale crisis.

Sure she was a Christian. She went to church when she could and read her Bible now and then. But God was reserved mostly for those “panic button” times of life. And this was one of them.
We all have tendencies that could be pushed to the limit. God actually warns us about such things. He calls them “lusts of the flesh”. We generally throw that word lust around in relation to sexual things. But God warns us that any desire of the flesh that becomes self serving will get us into trouble. He says these things will wage war against our soul.
“Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against your soul”. 1 Peter 2:11
You know you are on your way to being trapped by an unhealthy habit when you find yourself in the “sin-confess-sin-confess” cycle. Being caught in this cycle does dry up your spirit and your soul is troubled. “Fleshly lusts” are self serving and inward focused. Some of the “fleshly lusts” commonly found troubling lives and souls are constant complaining or criticizing, swearing, gossiping, needing to be in control, gambling, having a confrontational or divisive spirit, sexual sin, eating disorders, substance abuse, stealing.
If you are caught in any self serving desire that is bringing havoc to your life and troubling your soul, talk openly to God about it. Confess it to Him. Ask for His direction in seeking out the help of a friend or a counselor. God is the one who cautioned about such behaviors and He is the one who can help you begin that journey to break the cycle.
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
You know the cycle that has my life spinning right now. I confess to you my self serving desires that have the potential to wreck my life and my health and are troubling my soul. I ask for your forgiveness. Father, thank you for alerting me to the destruction this is causing in my life. I ask you to help me turn my focus upward toward you. Please be my guide on this journey to break this habit. Lead me to people who can help me and hold me accountable. Thank you for cleansing me. By the power of your Holy Spirit I choose to move toward wholeness and to be a good steward of the physical life you have given me.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 15 - Set Free by Truth

by Gail Rodgers
We had just moved into our new location and were still unpacking. The previous owners left a dog’s water dish on the step. But it wasn’t an ordinary dog dish, it was a great stainless steel bowl. So I rescued it, washed it up and put it in the cupboard.

Friday night we had the new neighbors in for supper. As we passed the food around the table my 6 year old innocently asked, “Mom, how come the potatoes are in the dog’s dish”. “That’s not the dog’s dish”, I quickly replied. But our eyes locked and we both knew it was indeed the dog’s dish and the potatoes were in it! Now, years later, those friends still tease me about that day!
Truth is a hard thing to admit at times. Truth means, of course, not telling lies… but it also goes so much deeper. Our lives revolve around what we believe about ourselves. And all too often what we believe is not truth at all.
We get used to deceiving ourselves. We can build structures of self defense in our minds that insolate us from truth. Sometimes we withdraw from people and offer a variety of excuses; we blame others and make excuses for our own poor behavior. “It’s not my fault” is a common line these days that can deceive us from owning our part in a conflict. Deception is subtle. But truth, when we face it, can free us.
When Susan asked God to reveal truth to her in her relationship she was surprised to finally realize she had a strong need to control. Her desire to have things predictable and organized got out of balance and was causing misery in her relationship.
Bob finally acknowledged that some of the pain in his childhood was causing him to build walls in his marriage. When he faced the truth and sought some counsel, he was able to work through it to find healing in his relationship with his wife.
God’s Word promises hope:
“Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31
“Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” John 14:6
If you have a relationship that is causing concern, ask God to help you see truth in that relationship. His Word says that His Spirit will guide you into all truth. (John 16:13) Perhaps you have built structures of self defense that He can help you overcome. Sometimes a friend or counselor is helpful in the journey. Jesus is the one who can bring freedom into our lives. He is the one who can not only reveal truth and wrong thinking, but His power in us can bring lasting change.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
I realize that I sometimes deceive myself with wrong thinking and it causes trouble for me in my relationships. I ask for you to reveal truth to me. I ask you to set me free from wrong thinking and to give me the strength and the power to change. You are my hope! Guide me by your Holy Spirit in my journey to wholeness.
In Jesus name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 16 - Change Me

by Gail Rodgers
As I sat down in the church service my foot began to tap to the lively praise music. It was refreshing! The pastor stood and began to pray, “Oh Lord, we have come here today to be changed by you… please change us.”

The words caught me off guard. I wasn’t sure I had come to be changed…encouraged and refreshed yes… but changed?? I thought about it over the next week.
As Christians we so often want God’s blessing and His strength and His wisdom…but do we willingly say “Lord, change me?” I knew I didn’t always. Yet it is the thing God calls us to… to be changed.
I thought of the worm and the butterfly. If the worm were asked, I am quite sure he would not feel the need to change, having no concept of the beautiful, flying creature he would become.
Only the Lord sees us as the finished product of what His grace can do in our lives. Only He knows the butterfly in each of us.
“The Spirit of Lord works within us to become more and more like Him.” 2 Corinthians 3: 18 (Living Bible)
Is the Lord asking you to let Him change you? Change is not always easy. But the joy and the reward of being transformed into the Godly person God knows you can be will surprise you and delight you. It will bring a fulfillment that is worth every effort. And God will enable you, by His Spirit, to make the changes you have put off too long.
Don’t wait any longer for God to change your circumstances, your boss, your husband or wife or whoever or whatever is holding you back. Ask Him today to change you. He promises to transform you…and you won’t be disappointed with the result!
prayer & reflection

Father God,
Thank you that I can trust you. I know I need to change but it’s not easy. Will you please begin your transforming job today in my heart and mind and in my life. I give you my permission to work in me. Enable me, by the power of your Holy Spirit, to see the process and to allow you to make me into your likeness… into the beautiful creature you know I can be. Thank you for your transforming power!
In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

[MajestyJo]

It was the music that drew me to church and kept me going back. After my second marriage, my ex-husband belonged to the Anglican and I told the minister when he asked me to join his church and leave my own, `It says, make a joyful noise onto the Lord, and your music is anything but joyful.`

I had some very narrow minded thoughts about the church, one that a prayer should come from the heart instead of a book. Then I found AA and the Serenity Prayer and the Third and Seven Step Prayers, brought me the healing, faith and trust that I needed in order to recovery. Step Eleven was bonus and why I made the decision to quit smoking, I wanted to be a clear channel.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 17 - Confidence

by Gail Rodgers
Shelly wasn’t quite sure how to apply her faith in God right now. She knew God was in her life. But this was just too much. The blow she felt seemed even beyond God’s help. She cried out to Him. She felt like the waves, in this storm in her life, were truly going to wash her right out to sea. She felt like she could hardly think.

God has a promise for those who put their trust in Him. It’s not a casual promise. It’s not trite words that can’t meet the deep issues of life that threaten to overwhelm us. It is a promise that will help get you through the deepest pain and grief. And you will even be nourished…even blessed…even in your current storm!
This is for you… Listen:
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; for its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17: 7 & 8
So how does it work when the pain is overwhelming? As a Christian you have access to the resources and the strength of God which is the water for your life. Believe He will hold you! Ask Him to increase your trust because storms always make us question our trust. Ask for a tenacity of faith!! He will nourish you in the hottest drought of your life.
How? Read His promises. Write this one out on a few post-it notes and put it on your bathroom mirror, in your daytimer, or on the dash of your car. Allow music that praises God to wash over your soul. Find a friend to pray with over the phone whenever you feel like the waves will overwhelm you. Or pray alone…God hears you! Put your roots down. Cling to Jesus. He is the one who dispels fear when the heat comes. He can be trusted to hold you steady as you wade through your storm.
But Sunday faith won’t do it… this is faith in a God who walks beside you step by step by step. He promises that you will actually come out the other side, not shriveled and dead as you might think now, but green and with something to offer to others. I know you can hardly believe that at the moment but it’s true. His Holy Spirit will guide you. Expect it!
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
The wind is blowing in my life today and I’m not sure I can stand against it. I declare that I trust in you. Even though all looks hopeless to me right now, I express my confidence in you. Help me step by step and moment by moment to lean hard on you to hold me today. I look to you to nourish my fainting soul. Encourage me and strengthen me even now by your Spirit. You are my hope! Thank you for your love.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 18 - Wisdom

by Gail Rodgers
Tracy had her own business. She loved being her own boss. It was challenging. But at times she felt her own wisdom was somewhat lacking. She really needed wisdom in knowing whether to go ahead in one particular area right now. It could cause growth in her business. It could also throw her into a tailspin if her timing was wrong. How could she know?

All of us face decisions… important decisions. And God promises to give us wisdom, His wisdom. He simply says,
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt… ” James 1:15 & 16
If you face a decision today and don’t know what to do, ask God for wisdom. Believe He will give it to you. Tracy shared three steps she uses as she asks God for wisdom. As she considers her decision she asks God to help her answer these questions…
Does it follow the principles of God’s word?
Ask yourself questions such as, “Would I have to compromise my integrity in any way? Would anyone be deliberately hurt by my decision? How would this impact the balance of my life?” Carefully consider all your thoughts and see if your thinking is lining up with the things you know God requires of you.
Do the circumstances fit together?
Ask yourself if the practical aspects of this decision make sense right now. “What are the risks involved if I make this decision? How will this impact the financial aspect of my life? What is the worst thing that could go wrong? Could I live with that result?”
Do I have peace?
When we think through our decisions, inviting God to impart His wisdom to us, we will get a sense of peace if we are to follow through. Pay attention to what is going on in your spirit and know you have asked the Holy Spirit to guide you. He brings clarity, not confusion.
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you that you have promised me a generous amount of your wisdom. I can’t see the right way to turn right now. I need that wisdom. I ask for your Holy Spirit to guide me. Please help me to think through these steps and to consider all aspects of this decision. Help me to be wise in understanding what steps to take right now. Please help me to be patient and wait if things are not lining up. I look to you to guide me and help me and to give me the wisdom that I need. Thank you for your love!
In Jesus name Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 19 - Your Position

by Gail Rodgers
Shelly was new to her management position. She could see some stuff going on in her department that was not in the best interest of her team. Her boss quietly took her aside and said, “Shelly, you have the authority to deal with this.” Stepping into her new position, hesitant at first, Shelly found she did indeed have the authority to deal with the situation. Moving things out of the downward spiral and heading in the right direction again, Shelly saw a parallel in her Christian walk.

So often we can feel a downward spiral in our own soul. Sometimes things don’t go as we had hoped or planned; sometimes discouragement sets in and we can feel helpless to change. Did you know that when Jesus died on the cross all the powers that work to drag us down were overcome?
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” Colossians 2:15
God says that as Christians we share in this victory and we have a position in the heavenly realm with Jesus.
“and God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realm in Christ Jesus… ” Ephesians 2:6
You share in His victory over all the powers that want to drag you down. Know that by the power of Jesus you can rise above the downward spirals that threaten you. If you are caught in a cycle that is bringing discouragement or depression to your soul, get help. Sometimes there are contributing physical factors that need addressing, sometimes there is emotional pain to be dealt with. And sometimes we need to simply take the authority God has given us through Jesus to understand that we do not need to be held captive. Whatever the source of the downward spiral, understanding your position can help move you from victim to victory.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
Thank you, that when I received Jesus as my Savior I stepped into a position with Him in the heavenlies, not because I earned it or deserved it but because it is your gift to me. Thank you Father that this position is above all the powers and dominions of this world and the spiritual world. Help me today to stand in the authority of this position with the powers of darkness under my feet, knowing you have disarmed them and I need not be bent under them!! Keep my heart focused on you. Keep my desire sharp to confess the daily things that put a block in my relationship with you. Thank you Father for the victory position you have made provision for, for me, your child. Help me to live in this identity today!
In Jesus strong name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 20 - More than Gratitude

by Gail Rodgers
Becky had often heard the little saying, “have an attitude of gratitude”, and for the most part she did. She could count her blessings and generally found a thankful spirit.

But this… there was no thankfulness in this! Her “attitude of gratitude” could find nothing for which to be thankful for. If she were not careful her heart could slip into despair and yes, even bitterness.
She didn’t feel like reading her Bible but she picked it up and flipped through it. Her eyes fell on a familiar verse she had highlighted with red…
“In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thess. 6:18
It seemed to hit her with new clarity. It said “in everything” not “for everything”. She pondered the thought. If she could not be thankful for this particular circumstance, what did it mean to be thankful in it?
When we ask sincere questions as we grow in our faith, with hearts hungry to understand God’s ways, the Holy Spirit shows us the answer.
Thoughts tumbled in her mind… she could be thankful for God’s faithfulness to her. As she recalled times past when life seemed out of control, she recalled God’s steadying hand on her and how His strength had carried her in difficult times. ( Matt. 11:28)
She could be thankful that God promised to work things out for good…yes; she had seen His hand bring good out of the most troubling things. (Romans 8:28)
With fresh realization her heart grew a bit lighter as she saw what God meant…be thankful in her circumstance because she knew the God who was bigger than any problem and He would be faithful to help her, His child.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
I truly am thankful for my blessings. But it is quite another thing to be thankful in the hard times and with the unanswered questions of life. Thank you for understanding it is not easy for me. Thank you for showing me that when I can’t be thankful for the hard stuff, You remind me to just be thankful in the hard stuff…for it is in the hard stuff where Your character of faithfulness will be proven over and over to me. Thank you for the confidence that You will see me through. Help me to lean hard on Your strength, and wisdom and care. Thank you that You will build a track record in my life through Your faithfulness. You enable me to be thankful in hard times because You are my God and You can be trusted with my life…even in the hard stuff!
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 21 - Whatever I do

by Gail Rodgers
Susan sat by the window with her pen and paper on her lap. A few quiet moments were hers to contemplate a new year! A fresh white page to write on! Her mind ran ahead to wonder what the year holds and to think about things she wanted to accomplish.

She loved the “fresh start” feeling the beginning of a new year always gave her. Sure, she knew every day was a fresh start but the turning of the calendar brought it into clear focus. Today she found herself a bit anxious about the future. She felt less in control then ever before. She jotted down some definite actions she would make a point of pursuing.
She made a quick list of the things beyond work and home responsibilities that she had committed to. She knew she needed to be deliberate in her choices to continue in some and not in others. She paused to ask God to guide her in her choices and her plans. He knew everything that would be written this year on her now clean page and He was the one who could give her direction.
As she prayed a verse came to her mind. She thumbed through her Bible looking for it. It brought a perspective to her mind and heart. A perspective that put the year ahead into bite size, manageable pieces.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
Whether the big picture of the year ahead brings you excitement or anxiousness, God gives a formula to live by daily. He tells us that in whatever we say or do we should consider our words and actions to be representing Jesus and to display a thankful attitude.
Try it. Take your day one conversation and one action at a time. Recognize yourself as a representative of Jesus and His love and values as you move through your workplace and your home. Ask Him to cultivate thankfulness in your heart even in the situations that frustrate you. You will be surprised at the peace He gives as you hold His hand throughout each part of today. It will carry you, step by step and day by day, throughout the planned and the unplanned events of your year. It will revolutionize your days!
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for loving me just the way I am today. Father God, You know the things that I need to change in this year. You know the things that excite me and the things that worry me. Thank you that You give me instruction in Your Word about how to face the new year and each new day. I ask You today to help me speak and act in a way that represents You to those around me. Father, there are people and situations that annoy and frustrate me. Please help me to cultivate a thankful heart even in the midst of frustrating moments. Help me to live, in everything today, in the peace that following You brings to my soul. Guide me I pray.
In Jesus name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 22 - Generosity

by Gail Rodgers
Kelly listened to the talk around the room at coffee break. “What kind of return are you getting on that investment?” “How are you going to get the money for your down payment?” “I got the most amazing deal on my new living room furniture.” What interest rate do you get at your bank?”

These concerns are part of day to day life. Yet this morning they seemed in such contrast to what she had just read in her Bible.
“... see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” 2 Corinthians 8:7
Kelly thought about it as she put her mug in the sink. She quietly prayed, “Lord, show me how to excel in giving today and to see it as bestowing some of Your grace. I know it means so much more than the concern of material goods.” Then the busyness of the day swept her back to the task at hand. But God had been invited to work through her today!
That night as Kelly got ready for bed she reflected how God had answered her prayer. She had been able to give compassion today to Mary who was troubled over some family concerns. She had given time to her teenager, to look him in the eye and really hear what he was telling her. She had given forgiveness to her boss who didn’t even know how hurtful his comments had been. She had given encouragement to her husband who was feeling frustrated in his work.
Kelly found that looking for places to give throughout her day had brought her contentment and a measure of fulfillment she had not expected. God had given His grace to her and she in turn passed it out.
Today why not look for the places you can excel in the grace of giving. If you feel tired and discouraged yourself, go first to God and ask for His grace to strengthen you and to give you grace that you can pass out to those you encounter. You will be surprised at the extra dimension it adds to your day! God wants to use you where you are today to pass out His grace. Excel in it!
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
I ask You to show me how I can give out grace in the situations around me today. Help me to see the opportunities You provide to give out kindness, forgiveness, compassion, a gentle response, a listening ear or time to just be with someone. Thank you that You are my source and will give me what I need to pass on to others. Father, help me today to see my environment as one You want to penetrate with Your grace. Help me to excel in the grace of giving today.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 23 - Moving that Mountain

by Gail Rodgers
I spent Christmas in a tiny village in the High Arctic on the edge of the Arctic Ocean. This time of year it is total darkness in that part of the world. Flying over the vast whiteness with my pilot husband, John, I caught glimpses in the moonlight of the huge icebergs that dotted the ocean surface below.

Joy, a seasoned hunter and northern chef, told me about a village she had worked at. An iceberg had drifted aground and sat on the shore of the village for 3 years. In summer months in the midnight sun it cast its huge shadow over the buildings nearby. In the winter this mountain of ice loomed in the darkness. The snow and rain and wind pelted it and whipped it. Then one day the great strength of the tide picked it up and it simply floated away.
I thought of that story today when I read this promise from God’s Word, the Bible.
“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea’, and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.” Mark 11:22 & 23
We all have mountains in our lives from time to time. Just like there are mountains of rock and mountains of ice, our mountains consist of different things too. Sometimes our faith activates God’s power and our mountain is removed immediately. But other times it is like the iceberg… seeming to cast a shadow on our lives for too long and we fear it may never go. God asks us to do our part by having faith, believing in God’s power. He will do the casting into the sea in His time. He is the mountain mover and as we ask Him for a tenacity of faith to believe, He will work! Trust His timing. Trust His power!
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
The mountain in my life looms large today. It feels like that mountain of ice that seems it will never leave. Father, today give me a tenacity of faith to believe You can move it. Give me a confidence in Your power to work in Your time. I declare my faith in You and I thank you for Your faithfulness to hold me as I wait on You. Thank you that I can trust You with this. Bring Your peace to my anxious heart today!
In Jesus’ strong name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 24 - Pay Back Time

by Gail Rodgers
Susan had a situation. Someone who had been miserable with her was now in a vulnerable position. It was her opportunity to retaliate and return a little of the misery.

As she planned her well aimed words the satisfaction she had anticipated just wasn’t there. A feeling of unease settled over her spirit.
As a Christian, Susan knew that the things she wanted to say, and even felt she deserved to say, would not represent her Lord very well. She struggled all evening. Part of her longed to get back at this person who seemed to look for ways to irritate her. She tried to push the unsettled feeling away.
At bedtime she contemplated just turning out the light and not bothering to read her Bible. But she reached for the devotional for that date and routinely scanned it. Her heart just wasn’t there tonight.The highlighted verse touched her heart…
“And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
She knew in her heart those harsh words were not to be spoken. It was clear…she needed to be fair, kind and connected to her God. Taking that opportunity to return unkindness with more unkindness would break her connection with God. Susan had lived long enough to know she needed that connection, the clear conscience and right heart with God, more than anything else.
The Holy Spirit is the guide who touches our heart when we are prone to get off God’s track. Pay attention to the stirrings of your soul. It may well be God’s Spirit nudging you to be fair… and kind… and to keep your relationship with God guarded. Your relationship with God is the single, most important factor in your life!
prayer & reflection

Father God,
Thank you that You give Your Holy Spirit to nudge my heart in the right direction. Tune my heart to hear You leading me when I am prone to lash out and take matters into my own hands. Father, You alone can help me be the person I need to be. Help me today to be fair and kind in my dealings with those around me. Help me to stay connected to You with a willing and humble heart. And Father, thank you for the peace You flood my heart with when I follow Your ways. Guide me today, bless me and make me a blessing to those I come in contact with.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 25 - A Circle of Blessing

by Gail Rodgers
Connie felt sorry for herself. There seemed to be a lot of pressure in her life these days! As she emptied the dishwasher she thought about her life with all its challenges. She just felt weary. And tonight she couldn’t even relax! No… she had made a promise to visit someone. She didn’t feel like it tonight. She even wondered why she had said she would.

Connie tapped on the door. A small voice called to her to come in. Connie was amazed at the tidy appearance of the old lady. The pearls and painted nails surprised her somehow. She looked little… and alone. The small room in the hospital had become her home. She was grateful for a visitor.
Connie couldn’t help but notice the deep peace on this lady’s face as she told Connie, “God is so good”. “I’m alone now”, she said. “It’s just the Lord and me, but I have a ministry here”. And she told her how she had grown to care about the nurses there. How they came to put her to bed and stayed to have her pray with them. Though there was a longing to go to be with her Lord, there was a contentment. God’s peace and His love were very much alive in that little room.
As Connie started her car in the parking lot she realized her heart was lighter. She had gone out of duty and with a weary heart, but God had met her there and refreshed her spirit through little granny.
Her morning Bible reading flooded back to her mind. It had been the story of Jesus washing His disciple’s feet. (John 13: 10-17) Jesus had demonstrated this giving task and then said,
“Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” John 13:17
The lesson was clear to her now. God had shown her tonight. In reaching out to others we move beyond our own self consumed worries and find blessing. She was glad she had gone. Nothing in her circumstances had changed. But in her spirit she found an unexpected lift that lightened her step. Yes! God is so good!
Today ask God who is on His heart in the circle you move in. Reach out to someone. Lighten their load with a word of encouragement or some small deed. It’s the way God works in blessing you and those around you.
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
You know me better than I know myself. You know that in giving I truly do receive. Forgive me for my worry. Help me to trust you to guide me through my circumstances and help me to keep an outward eye to those around me. Thank you for the happiness that comes as I reach out and purposefully touch the lives of those near me. Make me a blessing today.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 26 - Just Pray

by Gail Rodgers
Shelly listened intently to the talk in the committee meeting. A fragile situation had arisen and the committee was divided as to how to handle it. One said, “We need to pray!” Another said “Yes, but we need to do more than just pray. We need to do something!” She had some ideas as to how to fix things.

So often we see prayer as simply a list of our requests to God, our asking Him to come into our lives and fix our fragile situations. We are often desperate and pleading. In our panic for an immediate answer to our pain, we sometimes miss what God is offering us through prayer. Listen to this invitation from God Himself.
“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4: 16
God knows we will all have times of need. He invites us to come to Him boldly. This invitation is an opportunity to receive from the Lord Himself. It is not a promise of an immediate solution to our problem. It is a promise to find the mercy and the grace… the strength to walk where we need to walk right there in our need.
Sometimes God answers our crisis prayer right in the moment of need. Other times there is no immediate answer. He seems to have forgotten us and we feel prayer is not working. But when He waits with the answer He offers something that is far deeper. He offers Grace…God’s divine influence operating in our daily life giving us strength and wisdom, patience and endurance. And He offers mercy… God’s love and compassion toward us, holding us through the storm. And so He helps us in our time of deep need.
The next time a bump in the road of life causes pain or hardship in your life, pray! Pray for your answer, but continue praying and looking expectantly to receive just what you need to carry you through. God Himself invites you to receive.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
Thank you for Your open invitation to come boldly to You. Today, in the things I do not understand and in the answers I am waiting for, let me receive from You. Pour out Your grace to help me and Your mercy to hold me. Give me what I need. Divinely put peace and patience in my heart and mind today. Thank you that You walk beside me and will be my help!
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 27 - What Do You Do With Worry

by Gail Rodgers
Yesterday I was talking with a young woman about worry. She said, “Sometimes you just can’t help it”. And we would tend to agree. Sometimes things seem big. Sometimes things are big! Yet God tells us to worry about nothing! It seems impossible to us.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything: tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank Him for His answers.” Philippians 4:6 (Living Bible).
This same verse that tells us not to worry actually tells us how to accomplish it.
God actually gives us the formula against worry. There are three steps:
Pray about everything
Nothing is too big or too small for God to handle.
If it concerns you, it concerns Him.
Tell God your needs - take the time to talk things over with God. Don’t just plead for help, tell Him what you need. Ask for His guidance and His supply.
Don’t forget to thank Him for His answers
Start thanking in advance. Exercise your faith. Offer praise as a sacrifice to a faithful God, believing He will be faithful beyond the fog and the worry you now feel.
And then there’s the promise! The amazing thing God does… because He loves you!
“If you do this you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 7 (Living Bible)
Try it today. Take what is worrying you and talk to God about it. Begin to thank Him for His faithfulness and the help, insight and guidance He will bring to you. And experience Him quieting your thoughts and your heart and bringing you His peace. It’s amazing and it’s unexplainable. Experience it today!
prayer & reflection

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Word that tells me how to deal with the worries that crowd in upon my heart and mind today. Father, I just want to tell You about them right now…I ask for Your help and Your guidance in each concern. Thank you that You are a faithful God and that You see beyond the fog that clouds my view right now. Thank you that You are able to do what I can’t even imagine right now. I declare my trust in You and I ask You to fill me with Your peace. Quiet my heart and mind today. Help me to see each worry that creeps in as a call to prayer. I praise You that You are my strength and my help, my God in whom I trust!
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 28 - Uncertainty

by Gail Rodgers
So what’s ahead of you today? Is it a routine day of the morning rush to get out the door? Any number of things comes into focus as we set the day’s activities before us. We strive hard to maintain a measure of control in our day and in our plans. But the measure of control we had hoped to have can feel shaken at times. We can feel shaken.

This week our young nephew emailed from across the ocean. “I would be interested to know what you think of world events right now”, he wrote. Having three young adults myself I could read between the lines. As young people stand on the threshold of their adult lives they feel the uncertainty. As older ones raise a family and balance the mortgage and the gas prices, they feel it too. Baby boomers who planned for their retirement feel little control as they watch shifting markets.
But our God, who loves each of us dearly, knows we will face uncertainty in our lives and He offers encouragement and instruction through the words of the Psalm writer David. Listen…
“I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 16: 7 & 8
In order not to be shaken in uncertain times ‘Set the Lord always before you.’ What does that mean on a Thursday morning? It means bringing Him into focus as you start your day. When you get up in the morning acknowledge that, as His child, He is right beside you as you step into your day. Ask His Holy Spirit to remind you that He is there as the busy day progresses. Hold tight to His hand and ask for wisdom to deal with situations as you move through the activities of your day and the uncertainties of your tomorrows. . Praise Him. He will counsel you and instruct you. He will steady you so you will not be shaken.
Walk with Him step by step through whatever your day holds. His presence will enrich your ordinary steps and will hold you steady through the uncharted steps of uncertainty.
prayer & reflection

Father God,
I thank You and praise You that You alone have the ability to hold me steady in uncertain times. Please help me today to set You before me in all I do. Help me to be conscious of Your presence as I journey through my day today. Help me to be quick to call on You for the words and attitudes and wisdom I need. When the uncertainties of my life and of our world crowd my mind today, let me lean hard on You to steady me. I praise You that because You are with me I will not be shaken. Lead me step by step through the routine and through the unexpected today.
I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 29 - God's Economy

by Gail Rodgers
There was much talk about the economy. Sue’s mind would sift the comments - global economy, the economy of the country and her own city. She tried to be wise and prudent in handling the economy of her own pocketbook and budget. She even tried to be a “cheerful giver” as she knew the Bible encouraged. Sometimes it was consuming.

We do need to be wise as we handle the material resources God has entrusted to us. His Word does call us to be “cheerful givers” and to “sow generously” but it goes far beyond money. God’s economy is different. It’s an exciting economy to do business in.
Listen to what God says:
“Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all thing at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 & 8
God’s economy is about abounding in what He has planned for you to do. It’s about having an abundance of grace in all of life as you carry out God’s agenda in the circle where you live and walk. It’s the kind of living that brings fulfillment deep in your soul. It’s what you were created to do. It is a return unmatched by any other economy.
But you decide, in your own heart, how involved you want to be. You decide how much of your life you want to invest in God’s economy. You can “sow sparingly” and only be available on certain terms. You can reluctantly take time for those around you who are hurting, or only make a small remittance in time spent with God.
Or you can give of yourself cheerfully and watch God’s abundance spill out in your life…abundance that is far more valuable than any amount in your bank account. Abundance that comes from His grace flowing to you. Grace from God…deposited to you… so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will have abundance in every good work as you spend for Him throughout your day. You will be delighted with the return on your investment!
prayer & reflection

Father God
I want to see the bigger picture of Your economy. I want to invest in it in a new way today. Help me to cheerfully offer myself to You to work through me. Thank you that You give me principles to live by that will bring deep fulfillment in who I am created to be. Today I am choosing in my heart to give myself cheerfully to You. I want to invest in Your economy in a greater way. Let Your grace be multiplied in me to those around me. Help me to be wise today with the resources of this world’s economy that You have given me. But make me more aware of the daily investment I can make in Your economy which promises to bring such a rich return to my soul and for eternity.
I ask this in the name of Jesus, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

Loved by God Part 30 - Live as Children of Light

by Gail Rodgers
The darkness settled like a blanket over the land. To experience 24 hour darkness, in a far North community, was a new experience for me. A deep respect grew in my heart for the people who live there year around and simply take it in stride.

But when the light comes there is rejoicing! “The sun is back!” exclaimed an email yesterday! The days will lengthen rapidly now and in 4 short months the land that was shrouded in total darkness will experience total light. Children will run and play in the streets at midnight with the sun high in the sky. With the light comes new life to the village. With the light comes a freedom to run and play without the heavy clothes of winter and the fear of polar bears in the shadows.
Light dispels darkness. It reminded me of a Bible verse about this very thing:
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” Ephesians 5: 8
If you have received the forgiveness Jesus holds out to each one of us and have invited Him into your life, you have moved from darkness into Light. Are you living today as a child of light?
Have you shed the heavy parka of guilt and shame? Have you kicked off the boots that make your feet feel leaden as you go your own way? Are you still wearing winter mittens that cause your hands to fumble as you try to do what God wants? Does your life feel encumbered by fear that came from the darkness but has no place now in the light?
As a child of the light you are called to freedom; freedom to run and play and dance in the Son. Freedom that comes as you ask daily to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Freedom to be who God created you to be and fulfilled in the very depths of your soul.
Ask Him today to fill you afresh with His Spirit. Ask Him today to help you shed the heavy clothes of winter that drag you down. He can help you break that habit or overcome that discouragement. He can give you wisdom and open new paths for your feet. He can help you rise above the fears you still carry of shadows in the dark. His Holy Spirit can fill you with His power to live life far beyond your own very best efforts. Today live as children of the light!
prayer & reflection

Heavenly Father,
I need your Holy Spirit to help me live and walk today. Today I invite Your Holy Spirit into my life in a fresh and new way. I ask for Your help in understanding how to shed the heavy winter gear and the fears that linger so I can live in freedom. Fill me today, by the power of Your Holy Spirit, with everything I need for every step I take. Today I want to live as a child of the Light. Thank you that in You this provision is possible.
In the strong name of Jesus I pray, Amen.