He's Calling YOU

I sit and wait nervously for him to appear. It seems to take forever. My palms sweat, my stomach churns. "Please don't let me be sick. Not here. Not now. Please Lord", was my silent plea.

The khaki colored pants and shirt does nothing but emphasize his haggardness and aging. I smile with tears in my eyes as he looks my way. As he finds his way to me, moving past the other men all dressed the same, I see a look of tremendous shame in his eyes. He tries to hide it, but it's there nonetheless. To turn around now would only bring more pain than we've already felt.

I stood, we embraced, but not too long for the men in uniforms would separate us. We sit. Small talk begins. All the months of wonder and questions fade away as we talk. About nothing.

Then his eyes flood. He begins to tell about his Bible Study friends. Bible Study? Yes. And he's leading the group. My eyes fill as well, remembering a statement his mother told me years ago.

"Your daddy was called to preach".

But instead, he ran in the opposite direction. But His Father knew how to capture his full attention. See, this man's mother had prayed, "Lord, save my son no matter what it takes."

Years have passed, the man's mother is gone Home to her Father, yet God still answers prayers. Distance and time have no meaning for He heard that prayer and the merciful Father gave the man opportunity upon opportunity. So many chances and ways in which He could have turned his back on the wrong path and chose to travel with Him---the One who called.

Yet he did not.

However, time and circumstances have a way of changing a person. The man does what he can to answer the call today. Although the Bible Study does not take place in a comfortable home, nor a church Sunday School room. A prison cell and sometimes the day room holds his small congregation. The conversations are quietly spoken at first. Then, as he realizes he has nothing left to loose, more boldly will he speak. Soon.

How many times have you heard the Father call you to a task?

Have you offered other ideas?

Easier options?

Perhaps you feel less educated than the others--who seem so more qualified. (That's been my excuse.) Or, maybe you feel the task beyond you financially. Could be you feel too old? (I've heard that excuse too. I think I actually asked the LORD why He would ask me for something now, at my age!)

Listen, your age, weight, or even shoe size has nothing to do with your calling. But every bit to do with your willingness. Your lack of ability does not even matter, if you have a willing heart.

God uses those who seek to be used. Those who long to feel the Holy Spirit course through their veins and skin--coming forth with power and victory on the other side of a trial!

Today, while it's early in the year, determine in your heart not to wait until you've run out of excuses and He has had to "place" you where you can't run any further. Run to Him with open arms and heart of obedience and put everything you own on the altar. Give it all up to Him--and He will give to you what you need for the journey.

"Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach...." Deuteronomy 30:11 NIV

Read Deuteronomy 30:11-20 for your devotion today! You just might find a note from God inside those words!

The Air That I Breathe

Under an almost leafless tree, you will find me parked in my car at lunch.


On most days.


Today was one of those days.



As I was sitting there, mulling over the fact that I could not enjoy the sunshine and breeze that was evidently going on by the stirring of the grass and limbs of the tree---because I had to "work" inside all day, it hit me. Like the sunshine beaming down.





Why not? Why can't you, for just this moment in time, roll down your window and feel the breeze blowing and feel the sun's warmth?






Well, duh! I can roll my window down! How simple would that be! And for just these few moments, enjoy the weather provided.



With not another minute to lose in my mully-grubbing heart, I rolled down all four windows and the breeze instantly rushed in, carrying with it the sweet promise from heaven--His love.


His love can be felt anytime we make ourselves open to Him. Available to Him.


How often do we sit inside our lives with the windows of our soul rolled up tight--refusing to breathe the freshness of the Holy Spirit? I have found myself in such condition. Breathing in only the stale -stagnate air of flesh. The air that depresses and even kills the spirit man.

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:4-7 NIV

I believe that the enemy of our lives wants us to keep the windows of our heart rolled up tightly against the love that HE so lavishly affords us! Through the gift of His grace, we are heirs in Christ Jesus! All the reason in the world to keep those windows rolled down and breathe in His gifts! Life eternal! Life divine!

Are your windows open?

Are you breathing in His Holy Spirit?

What are some things that block the Holy Spirit from penetrating our lives?

© The Knightly News 2009. All rights reserved.

Solving the World's Problems

I find myself doing the most ridiculous things.

Just like this morning. I woke just after 5:00 a.m. and lay there in my soft cocoon of clean sheets, soft comforter and cozy pillow and I tried to solve the world's problems before I got up....well maybe not the world's...but mine felt like the problems of the world...AND THEN I was so depressed all I wanted to do was burrow deeper into the bed....but then...I crawled out from under and decided it'd be best if God handled it today!



Ever have one of those days?

When the stress of life gets too much?

That's what happens with me. I battle in my mind over the issues that are pressing in on me when----if I'd just stop and think----I don't need to! I allow heaviness to overtake my heart, and then I'm a mess for days and by the time I finally realize that the place I need to be is at the feet of the Father...I am crumpled in a heap. I need to be wearing Mary's shoes. Not Martha's.

But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things,but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:40-42 NIV

Mary's feet led her to the Lord. Martha's feet led her to the kitchen sink. Back and forth from the stove to the table to the sink to the fridge to the sink to the table to the cupboard to the table to the sink to the stove ..... get the picture? Now, I am not saying that there wasn't a "need to feed". There was. There is.

But can you picture Sister Mary with me?

Sweating bullets because she can't find the serving platter that matches----biting her tongue almost off because of the anger she is feeling toward Mary, until she finally "voices" it just a bit....pulling out the best linen napkins for the "company", only to find one is missing! She was out of control. Just like me. Maybe even just like you sometimes?

I know my mother gets that way when a special deal is about to take place at her house. I come by it honest. You will find me days before guests are to arrive cleaning baseboards in the bathroom for crying out loud! AND in the hall...and just in case someone looks "behind" the doors...yep---I clean there too. I am not a neat freak....until we have company. Then I totally freak out. (There---I have let my guard down and showed you the "weird me".)

As a matter of fact, on Christmas Eve we were having my whole family at my house....and there I was just a couple of hours before, finally getting around to the bathroom (saved it for last on purpose) and I was cleaning the tub and tub walls as if we were serving food in it! That is a bit much! When it was all said and done I was too pooped to party! I was exhausted and ---AND---on top of that---I messed my back up again!

So, you see, me and Sister Martha have much in common. It's not that we don't love the Lord. We do ---with all our hearts, souls, minds and spirits! But we are excessive in some areas that really don't count as much. They have no "heavenly value". They will not "grow us" spiritually. Well, one point in my favor, I DO LISTEN to praise and worship music while I work. I do talk to the Lord as I'm busy. Sister Martha may have too. I'll ask if I remember when we get to heaven.

I had a discussion with my daughter just this week about her priorities. (Like I'm such a pro at prioritizing things!) God first---then family. She had her "love life" reversed. Love God first----with all your heart-soul-mind-strength---if He is the "Leader" in the marriage then it will work. If He's not, then---hmmm, well, that is something I'm not willing to try. When we love God first---then He can show us how to love that "sometimes" unlovable spouse. The unsaved spouse. The one that puts his wants-desires-activities ahead of everything else. But only with God's help can that be done. (My opinion for what it's worth!)

What am I saying in all this jumble of words? We can't solve the world's problems. Without God---I cannot solve mine. With God in charge---loving Him first....heading straight for the throne first---instead of trying my own way----we can find the peace we need in the midst of the problems of life. That is hard.

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33 KJV

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

I am thankful that I can have the "peace" I need....anytime....anywhere.


Now, before you try and solve the world's problems....make sure you have on the "right shoes" (as in Mary's shoes).

In Faith,

Angie

© Angie Knight at The Knightly News 2009. All rights reserved. Originally published 2007

My Utmost

Oswald Chambers wrote, “The actual things are, but immediately you look at them you are overwhelmed, you cannot recognize Jesus, and the rebuke comes: “Wherefore didst thou doubt?” Let actual circumstances be what they may, keep recognizing Jesus, maintain complete reliance on Him.”

Scripture reference: Matthew 14:29-30

That portion came from the devotional I am using this year. The one I received from my sister, Wanda’s book batch. I will be honest, I didn’t think I’d get much out of it when I first glanced through it. But now I admit that almost every time I go to the day at hand, there is a message for me.

A dear friend from blogville, sent me an e-mail that she was praying for me. This came on the heels of another dear sister-friend stating the same thing. Two hearts burdened to pray. God knows the deal.

He knows full well the problem. It’s called “Iwonderif” disease.

Ever heard of it? Ever had the affliction strike you? It can happen at a moments notice. I’ve had the ailment more times than I can count.

It happens somewhat like this:

The Lord brings an idea or thought to your heart and mind. Even though it is something that we sometimes refer to as a “burden”, it is one we gladly bear. (As in when you feel “burdened” to pray for someone.) It is something that you feel distinctly drawn to…you feel Him call…you step out in faith…and you sense His direction and His affirmation.

And then it happens. Up on your shoulder sits the pest. The buzzing mosquito. You swat---you slap…but still it buzzes.

It buzzes in your ear, “I wonder if you really heard right…

I wonder if He was really talking to you…

Don’t you think someone else could visit the sick?

I wonder if they will think you are weird…or worse yet, off your rocker!”

I wonder if your friends will leave you?

I wonder if the money will hold out to the end of the month…or the bills…will they all get paid???

Did you really hear Him call you?

Do you really think you are able?

I wonder if ….

If you’ve lived a Christian life for any length of time, you’ve probably been afflicted with this nasty bug. Similar to a virus…it can wipe you out physically and emotionally and last for several hours, or even several days—and sometimes, it can stay long enough to cause you to give up the vision God had for your life….

I wonder if.

Let’s turn that around.

I don’t have to wonder long, we are a called and chosen people.

We are one of two types of people---we are either Missionaries---or we are a Missions Project.

When He said, “Go ye”, I believe He meant “Go you. Go me.”

When He said, “Follow me and I will make you fisher’s of men”…I believe He meant exactly that!

We are to go out—in our day-to-day and share Jesus with the world.

I am being prompted in my spirit to go—in the work place—in the stores—wherever I may be—I am there to do what I normally do, work, shop, eat, and live the daily—but also, while I’m there, I am to be sharing and living Jesus.

Daily.

Without a doubt. Giving my utmost for Him.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the “actual” that is your circumstances, but look beyond—to the place up on top of the water—where He is calling you to walk. As Peter did.

Don’t cast your eyes to the waves, keep them focused on Him.

Today, He’s calling us to follow.

I’ve stepped out in faith.

How about you?

In Faith,

Angie

© Angie Knight at The Knightly News 2009. All rights reserved.

Matthew 14:29-33 (New International Version)

"Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

Trust In God

True Story-- as it was told to me three long years ago.

The drive was a long one. She was body weary and heart weary. The trials of late had taken a toll on her emotions, and her precious family. The enemy had hounded almost the very life from their first born child. Their son. What they had already been through was monumental. But it was nothing compared to what they yet had to endure.

The young man, not quite a man, no longer an innocent, the drugs had seen to that, sat in almost a constant state of squirm. Talking nonsense for much of the time, distracted by anything that seemed to whirl through his mind, gave his devoted parents a ride they would not soon forget.

The parents, trying to find a place of safety. A place where the drugs could be cleansed from his system, under the watchful eyes of those with the knowledge of how to care for a young man who came close to leaving this life. The miles stretched out as phone calls were made--seeking refuge. All the while the mother sat with her emotions on her face. She bit back the tears that seemed in constant threat, almost as a veritable thunderstorm in the heat of summer.

With a destination in sight, the band of three headed north. After many miles and long hours of riding, the weary family pulled into the site of the rehabilitation center. The extreme price for the period of time he was to stay, seemed of no consequence to have their son healthy and whole. They depleted what they had and then some, to get him from the influence of evil and into the care of professionals.


The mother, not wanting to leave her son in a strange place and so far from home, felt the dam of tears near to bursting as she suggested to her husband to find a motel and leave fresh in the morning. It had been a harrowing few days. She knew she couldn't emotionally handle the ride back home this late in the day. It would be several hours before they could get back home and the strain of the drive north itself had wiped them both out.

As they set out to find a place of rest they stopped at one motel after another, turned away every time. A conference was in town and every available decent motel was booked solid. Finally, about to give up, they arrived at a motel and the desk clerk informed him that although they were full, he would call their "sister motel" down the street and see if they had anything available. By this time, they were willing to take the broom closet. Washing in the janitorial sink. Whatever it took, they needed to get off the highway and sleep a bit. They needed to make some calls back home, let the other family members and church members know they were safe and that their son was in good hands, and they needed to weep in private.

As the father was waiting in the lobby for the call to be made, the mother was in the truck talking to the Lord.

"It's my birthday Lord." She wept as she realized this yet again. Although her son had apologized for her having to spend her birthday in this way, she assured him that she'd rather spend it getting help for him and knowing he was now safe, than still be in the misery of the past few days. Her troubled heart thought back to the joy of when he was born. How, even as a young boy, his heart seemed destined to follow Christ. But then peer pressure seemed to change things, and it simply broke her heart.

The father came out of the motel, a grim look on his face as he opened the door, "They have one room. I don't know what it looks like, and right now, I really don't care."

They pulled back onto the highway, stealing themselves for what they might have to face. They just needed a place for some privacy. A place to pray and weep before the Lord without being disturbed. A place to be alone with the Father and unload the heavy burden of life.

When they arrived at the motel, the room key was issued and they were instructed to pull around to the side, they could enter from the side door. This could be the cleaning crew entrance for all they cared, but to them it was a completely private entrance.

As he inserted the room key and waited for the green light to display on the door handle, they seemed to hold their breath. The door swung wide to reveal an unexpected surprise! A suite! They were in the only room available and it was a room fit for someone with celebrity status! Well, that's what they were! Children of the Most High God!

As the father went to gather the rest of their belongings, the broken hearted mother carried one suitcase over to the sofa, reveling in the fact that the Lord had been gracious enough to supply them with a wonderful place to lay their weary heads. As she dropped the bag down, she noticed something shiny on the floor underneath the edge of the sofa. Kneeling down, she picked up the shiny silver coin that lay heads up. A quarter.

As she rubbed her thumb over the coin, her eyes fell on the words, "IN GOD WE TRUST". The pent up tears began to cascade down her weary face as she turned the coin over and saw that it's year mark was 1987. The year of their marriage.

That's exactly what they had done. For all these years, trust in God. They had suffered many storms in the life of their ministry and marriage, but trusting in God had never been questioned. That was resolute. That was concrete. Immovable. "Trust in God." They did then, they still do today.

The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower. Psalm 18:2 KJV

When Aimee called me just after finding that quarter, crying through most of the explanation, I told her this: "Aimee, that was God's love note to you. You are His child, His daughter and everyday, He leaves us little "I Love You's" all around, if we will just look for them". We both praised the LORD for this incredible joyous blessing in the middle of one of life's toughest storms and wept for the returned prodigal, who was still a long way from God.

Would you join us in prayer over this young man? His name is Brad and God has a purpose for his life. A purpose and destiny. He is not as far as he has been, but this sheep hasn't made it back into the fold.

Friend, I don't know what you are going through today. Whether it is an issue with your children, perhaps aging parents, your job, or just an emotional battle that just doesn't seem to have a name. I want to give you the assurance, that as my sister, Aimee trusted in God to deliver her son back to her, you can trust in God for whatever need is in your life. God has a purpose for your life too. He has a destiny that was created just for you. Will you call on Him today?

Father, first I thank You for what You are still doing in Brad's life. For the salvation of his soul. While I cannot see it with my natural eye, my heart believes it is near!

Father, each person that stops off here today and reads this post has a need in their lives. It may be similar, or maybe it's something they've not shared with anyone.

Father, I ask right now that you minister to each heart today, reveal to them the "I Love You" that You have left for them to find. Remind them of the greatest Love Note that hung on the cross for our sins. Enable us to be what you designed and created us for. Give us the wisdom and strength to continue on in the power of Your might!

I give You my life to shape, form and fashion in whatever way would please and bring glory to You. Bless these that stop here. Minister peace to them as only You can. In the most holy name of Your Son, Jesus Christ ~ Amen.

© The Knightly News 2009. All rights reserved.

On Hold?

This is my phone. Not my 'home' phone...but my work phone. This phone is the reason that I don't answer the phone at home. Unless Jeff is not home. If he's home, he is sweet enough to answer it---:) (whether he really wants to or not)--we never screen calls...either we are home or we are not---if we are home we pick up.
This phone can make you crazy. I should know---see---it is what makes me crazy!

Please allow me to give you a brief run-down of my day....I get there...after having driven about 42 miles...phone is ringing. Walk in the door--- answer the phone. I try and remember if it is morning or afternoon (sometimes I do really well at this...sometimes not so well). Good morning "blaahby, blaahby" (attorney's names---we chose to shorten the length from 5 names to just the first two--thank you LORD!)---then while I listen---I write....most of what they say. Now the tricky part is if another line starts ringing while they are still talking...hmmmm. Please hold----Good morning "blaahby, blaahby"....yes mam, can you please hold? Go back to line number 1, apologize for asking them to hold, finish taking message, hurry back to line number two and line number 3 rings. Please hold. Take line 3 and then line 4 rings. Good morning, "blaahby, blaahby", please hold. PLEASE HOLD. PLEASE HOLD...PLEASE HOLD...Do you see where you might get a tad crazy??? Well? DO YOU?

Sorry. Got a bit out of hand there---(I didn't mention that all the while the phone is ringing...I am greeting clients---creating files, entering time/data for 4 of the 5 attorney's for every minute of the work day for them---every minute of their time is documented...yeah. right. by me---no don't feel bad. After all---this is my job....so I'm cool with it...most of the time.---That MUST be the reason for my twitching left eye! Yikes!)

Have you ever paused to think about how many "calls" the Lord receives in a day? It is unimaginable. I cannot begin to fathom how in the world He does it! But---then He is God. He can do it. I get frustrated when someone tries to talk to me when I'm on the phone. But He doesn't. He just handles it all with such finesse. Never does He miss a call. You NEVER have to leave a message. YOU are NEVER put on hold! He is always there! Try Him. Try the line. Call Him. Call upon Him.

Psa 50:15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Psa 55:16 As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.

Psa 91:15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I [will be] with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

Jer 29:12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

Did you find the words..."call upon me and if I am not too busy with someone else I will answer you?"....No---you didn't. NOR will you ever. You will never call Him and get a busy signal. Neither will He ever be too busy ---nor too far away---or tied up---or have a "shortened arm"---or a deaf ear---or any other hindrances that I am missing....

We are His beloved children---His heirs. With an incredible inheritance awaiting each one of us!

Rom 8:17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.

Gal 3:29 And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Tts 3:7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Jam 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

So---if you've made that call----or if you have that problem----or have a certain need....and you don't think you "hear anything"...stay on the line. You are not on hold. You are His beloved child. He will answer---His Word says it! I believe it! That settles it!

(All scripture references are KJV)

Home

Charles Spurgeon wrote, "When home is ruled according to God's Word, angels might be asked to stay with us, and they would not find themselves out of their element."

Recently, I spent a week back home. The house where I did most of my "growing-up" is about an hour's drive from here. Give or take. Depending on who's driving...and the traffic. Which, the closer you are to home, the more you might find your way slowed by a tractor or two.

Housesitting is a splendid way to get a mini-vacation--with the exception of going to work. My mother and stepdad (Grandbuddy), were on a week long missions trip to Central Florida to work on an orphanage with several folks from my home church. Normally, I would not have to housesit, but they recently aquired a very large dog and he won't let just anyone into the yard--but he has to be fed--so the neighbors can't do it. And, since he happens to like me--then I get the job! So this was really more dog-sitting than housesitting.

Okay, I am rambling. Sorry.

It felt so good to be home. It was quiet, and the feeling of family was like a warm blanket. There were memories on every wall, in every picture, even the scent seemed so familiar. It was the scent of prayer.

I've smelled it before. At my grandmother's house. It is the scent of offerings of thanksgiving, petitions of mercy for family members, and much praise that has washed the walls of the house. Permeating every room with the feeling that you are welcome, you are loved and that God reigns in that home.

I remember giving some clothes to a friend several years ago, she grabbed them up in her arms to carry them to her car and as she did, she exclaimed, "oh these smell good! They smell like your house!"

I hope my house today smells like an altar before the LORD.

Many years ago, I realized I had allowed the world to enter in my home. It slipped in innocently enough, so quietly I hardly recognized it for what it was. But when I did, I pulled out the garbage can!

When secular books out numbered the godly--uplifting ones, something had to change! Music was next. I had begun to listen to (almost constantly) a country radio station. I had even purchased a few CD's.

Now, don't get all twisted up---I am not saying country music is wrong---but for me it was. I needed to feed my soul Christ, not Tammy and George. Or in this case, Tim and Faith.

I was not feeding my soul the proper nourishment. My home suffered. My heart suffered. I was ill equipped to face the battles that were looming ahead. But the LORD stirred my soul and my senses. I began a spiritual house cleaning, as well as a physical house cleaning.

While in this house cleaning, both of the heart and the home, I began to reflect on my "time". How much I spent with Him, verses how much I spent involved in other things. The other things seemed to win out. Changes had to be made there as well.

This time at mother's gave me the opportunity to once again, slow down and reflect. At my heart-home. I had my morning devotions in the very spot where mother has hers each day. The LORD met me there each morning and bathed my day in His presence as I went before the throne in offerings of praise. It made a difference.

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good."

What does your heart-home look like?

Is it cluttered?

Is God reigning? Or is He squeezed out? Is there a mismatch of desires?

Seek His desire for your life---He will help you with the "housecleaning".

I'd love your visit at my place!

© Angie Knight 2009. All rights reserved.

Follow Me

Several years ago, a little girl friend of our oldest daughter was driving home from work...with her mind in the clouds, or rather, on something else.

As she drove along, she had to stop frequently for the road construction going on in our area.

"Finally! We're moving again," she thought as she moved slowly behind the pilot truck leading the way. She followed him. With her mind elsewhere, little girlfriend, traveling at a safe distance and speed, followed the pilot car--- all---the---way---home. His home not hers. It was after all, quitting time.

Imagine his surprise when the cute young girl pulled into his driveway. Imagine her surprise when she realized what she had done.

Have you ever been caught off guard like that?

Followed someone straight into a place you had no desire whatsoever to be?

I have. I was so surprised when I felt the hand of the enemy trying to lure me even further. Thankfully, I could put myself into reverse, and get out of that situation.

While we cannot go back and erase our past mistakes, there is a place where we can go and erase the sin itself. The Cross. I capitalized it for a reason. The Cross is important to me. And if you've been there...then you can relate to the clean---pure---fresh---washed feeling.

Going to the cross demands that we leave the way we lived prior to the prostration of our soul.

..."Follow Me," Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed Him. (Luke 5:27(b) NIV)

My husband, Jeff, recently shared his testimony with our Sunday School class. He described his feeling of forgiveness, the transformation from the old life to the new, as a "washing of soul" that penetrated his body---from his head out through his toes with a "cleansing."

Those old paths trampled would no longer be his chosen path. No longer would he simply "follow" the crowd. Instead, he would be following the Leader---Christ Jesus Himself!

Today, make a choice. Follow Him, not the others beckoning you here and there...look only to Him. He will be with you---all the way!



© The Knightly News 2009.

I'd love your visit at my place! The Knightly News~ Have a blessed day!

Adversity and Destiny

To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7 (NIV)

Have you been side swiped by adversity? I don't mean in a car. I mean in your heart---your life. Something that has stumped your toe--tripped you up.

A storm in your life that may have caused you to run for cover. Only maybe you didn't run for the right Cover.

Think about it for a minute.

What about Job? You know, Job in the Bible. The one who had it all and lost it all... but by the mercy and grace of God, had it all and then some---again!

And what about Joseph. Sold by his brothers into slavery. They thought they'd never see him again. Little did they know---Joseph had a destiny--and God used the adversity in Joseph's life to usher in the destiny-- for the well being of his family.

Okay, those are some men, what about Naomi? She lost her husband and her sons. What did she have. Adversity with a capital "A". But she also had a daughter-in-law that vowed to never leave her side. And God had a plan.

Okay, if those aren't enough, think about Esther. She's on my mind since we've been studying her life. She lost her mom and dad---maybe at the same time, maybe close together---the point is---she lost them both. And being raised by her uncle...well, I call that some adversity. But she also had a destiny. Designed by the Master Designer Himself!

We can go on and on here!

Have you ever considered that the very adversity surrounding you--- may be shaping your life for your destiny? Or, consider that it could be shaping someone else's destiny.

I know. It's hard to imagine that losing a job would play any part at all into shaping up your destiny. But I remember a time when Jeff lost his job. Many years ago when our daughters were very young, Jeff was "let go".

Sound familiar? Well, let's just say he had principles and the boss did not. He wanted Jeff to lie --deceive a fellow employee. He wanted Jeff to do some "dirty work" for him. And Jeff refused. In a nice way of course. But...that ended that. It also ended our income.

I remember distinctly going into the closet in April's room. She was the baby---and had the most space in her closet. I didn't need much space---for I only stood and pounded the wall ---and asked God "why"?

"Why now Lord? Don't you see? We'll have no food! What if we get sick? We won't be able to pay our bills!"

We were Christians. We believed God "could" meet the needs...we just never had to "depend" solely on Him for them. Little did we know that God had a plan.

Looking back at that time, I can't really tell you what we did next--besides pray. I know we prayed. God not only supplied one job, but He supplied two. Two part-time jobs and then soon, very soon, a full time job opened up and Jeff walked in.

As Jeff settled into the new job, he made some friends. One friend was very nice to Jeff and they began to talk daily about the difference in Jeff's life over some of the others that were there. It was not long before Jeff was leading this young man into the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ!

Not many months after that, we attended our first A.M.E. Church service as that very same young man preached his first sermon! How glad we were to be a part of that day! And it came about through our adversity. God brought about this man's destiny.

Care to give God what's troubling you? I assure you He can handle the adversity going on in your life right now. Rest in His care. He's assembling all the pieces into your destiny.

And might I say....what a picture it makes!




© The Knightly News 2009.

I'd love your visit at my place! The Knightly News~ Have a blessed day!

Following HIS Lead

Max says, "I'm learning. It's slow going at times. Be patient."

Mom says, "I'm being patient Max. Don't worry or fret. I'm watching you."

Max is new to the leash. As a matter of fact, he's new to many things. We are in the process of "socializing" him. Acquainting him with life---and all of the fun! Unfortunately, with the fun --there are some "not-so-fun" things.

Yesterday was his second time out with the leash. The first time didn't go so well. I wound up carrying him home.

This time I allowed him to drag the leash so that he could get familiar with the "weight" of it. I walked ahead and he followed right behind. Pretty soon he was up right beside me. I reached down and took the leash. If he knew I had the "control" he didn't say anything. He just kept walking. Every now and then he slowed, when that happened, I'd notice right away and stop and encourage him to keep going. I had my eye on him constantly. Watching for him becoming too tired or straying to the wayside.

Sometimes we're like that. We think we are on our own. Walking our path solo. But nothing could be further from the truth.

Hebrews 13:5 (b) For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Isn't that just the best promise! We may think He's not aware of what's going on in our lives...but His watchful eye is on us. He is by our side.

Lucy (the little black lab), has now chewed three leashes. (I call her new mommy every week to check on her.) She resents being tied. It was for her protection all three times. It wasn't going to last but a few minutes. But she couldn't see into the future, and she refused to be patient and wait---and she was not trusting that she wouldn't be left there. Too much activity going on ---on the other side of the leash. I hope she learns. Or, somebody should by stock in the leash company.

*Are you allowing HIM to do the leading? *

Are you sensitive to the Holy Spirit's prompting for direction? *

Are you in a hurry...chewing on the leash?

*Take the time to evaluate where you are in HIM. That's what He's teaching me through all this puppy business!

Guarding Your Mind

On a morning that I woke before my "desired" time....the craziest phrase kept rolling over and over in my mind. "Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country." Remember it? The phrase was created in 1867 by Charles E. Weller merely as a typewriting exercise.

However, the real need is this:

For all (men, women and children alike) to pray!

"And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:" Acts 2:17-18

This was from Peter's first sermon which took place in Jerusalem--he was quoting from the Scriptures, the Prophet Joel. (Read the whole book of Acts-you will be encouraged by what you find.) The power of the HOLY SPIRIT was given to all who seek Him.

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:38-39

If your children have a need...who do they go to for that need to be met? You. We have an extreme need. A need to be filled to overflowing with the POWER of the Holy Spirit. I have told my oldest child many times, "in the last days we will need the power of the Holy Spirit to see us through the tough circumstances of life."

The unexpected.

When you don't know what to pray...the Holy Spirit does so for you. "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." Romans 8:26

I am urged on as never before to seek more of God in my life. There are many that feel that some things that the world partakes of is alright. . . . It may be for them, but it is not for me. I WANT the Spirit to speak to my heart when I am about to step into an area that is not "for me". I WANT the Spirit to direct my footsteps and yes, even the words I say.

Matthew 12:36 says, "But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." Christ's own words. Think He meant it? Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Right. He meant it. Big time sister.

During a time of devotion on our Sisters of Faith Retreat 2008, I told the dear sisters that I felt that even the "thoughts" of our mind would be accountable to Christ.

"And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4:8 NLT

When provoked to the point of anger, where does your mind go? I know EXACTLY where mine goes. And I have to pray. The mind is a dangerous place for most of us.

For men, when they see a woman on the cover of a magazine---half naked---where do you think their mind goes? Same for many women. The body of muscles rippling on a naked torso of a man sends some women into a frenzy of lust. And almost every single magazine you pick up from the newsstand screams that today. Makes me want to wear a blindfold many times at the check-out counter!

As I watched the movie Fireproof a while back, I was reminded of the book by Beth Moore, Get Out of That Pit where she describes many pits that are waiting traps---and many we dig ourselves right into...

I have plunked myself straight into the pit of depression...all because I did not capture the flailing thoughts and I allowed the enemy to plant seeds of doubt and discouragement there. Then, I sat idly by as he (the enemy) watered those same seeds until I was a complete and total mess.

Only through the power of prayer---the POWER from the Holy Spirit was I ever able to break free from the debilitating grip of the enemy in my life. Over my mind and heart. It happens. As surely as a panic attack can come on some, despair can come on others. Depression. I've been there.

I used this passage yesterday...but it's needed again today. "For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." 2 Timothy 1:12

I have committed my heart and mind to following Jesus Christ. As the song says, "I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back."

Allow HIM to come into your heart and life today. When you give HIM full control over your heart and mind....He will do some amazing things ...on a daily basis. I know. I am there.

And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Acts 2:21




(picture from Bella Lino linens--not my bedroom---I only wish!)
I welcome your visit to our place though, "The Knightly News"---pull up a chair! Make yourself at home!

Highlighted Words

Do words in yellow highlight grab your attention? These did mine BEFORE I hit them with the highlighter. "The only way we can be of use to God is to let Him take us through the crooks and crannies of our own characters." Oswald Chambers really hit the nail on the head with that.

How often I try and ignore the things that are going on in my heart---just because the timing may not be quite right for dealing with the emotions of the moment. I do that so often!

My sister, Aimee and I discussed recently a particular difficult situation in which she had to go beyond her active duty. I questioned her as to "how" are you going to do that? She said, "I compartmentalize." I do as well. Put it in a pretty box. Deal with it later.

I have to tell you though, God wants to help us deal with it here and now. This minute. If you wait, all to often the enemy of our souls has a chance to insert his opinion. Has that happened to you? Oh girls, it has me.

There was a situation years ago that I was trying to "work through" on my own. In my own time---in my own heart. Well---by the time the enemy had finished inserting his opinion---I had all sorts of imaginings going through my head. None of which were true. The truth was---he--the devil---is a liar. All manner of false spewings come forth when he opens his mouth. And its nasty filth gets in the recesses of our minds and is hard to clean out!

What I needed--and what I eventually received ---was time with my Father. Alone. Just the two of us. Oh the sweet relief. Oh the peace that flooded my soul (as the song says).

I find great comfort in the Word. I find out more about me---and about His desire and love for me daily. That is one area where He can work on the crooks and crannies of our minds. Opening up your Bible, is like inviting Him to sit a spell.

Lessons learned the hard way often stick the longest...but take this one down. Don't box it up. If you do, carry the box immediately to Him to open, examine and repair. When necessary---even replace. There are times in our lives when we need to re-evaluate the order of things. A change of priority is often necessary. Sometimes---there are things, not necessarily bad things, maybe obligatory things that needs cutting from our lives. He can help you decide. He can highlight those areas and shine His Holy Light into the area that needs work. Have you thought to ask Him? I have recently. When He pulls the cover off the attitude I get from time to time, He highlights it and directs my heart into action.

Go ahead. Hand Him the highlighter. Don't be afraid...just be obedient.

In Him,

Angie

I would love to have you visit me when you have time...at the Knightly News!

The Road Through A Year

As I sat this morning at a local fast food restaurant, waiting on the breakfast that did not live up to the claim of fast, I reflected back over the traveled path of my year.

The road I travel each morning is under construction. There are days when I sit still---waiting to move ahead---some days I stop as many as three times! Each day I am at the mercy of the “sign holder.” You know the one. He stands there and holds a sign all---day---long. On one side it reads stop. On the other side it reads slow.

You may think this sounds crazy…but the slow side of the sign is more aggravating and testing of my patience than the stop side. I mean, if I can go…then let’s get it in gear and MOVE sister! I have also noticed some things about me in the times of this road construction. On days when I have an agenda---I prefer things at a fast pace. Get with the program and all that jazz!. . . . But then there are days when I am simply to be still.
Jeff and I were discussing this morning (he’s at my mercy of discussion as we wait in the surgery center room for his painless test [since he'll be asleep],---and might I add---he is not a very patient patient), the deal of traffic issues and who it bugs the most. I told him that while we had the same problem---both of us get agitated when we are driving, and someone “without much drive” gets in front of us---however, when he’s driving---I am less irritated by the other drivers.

When he is driving, my focus is not so much on the road we are traveling, rather my attention is on the view. On the sky. The surroundings. The landscape. I enjoy traveling more when Jeff’s driving. I almost said simply, “when I’m not driving”, and while that is true---I prefer Jeff over anyone else. Why? I trust him. I have ridden hundreds of thousands of miles with the man and I trust he knows what he’s doing and where he’s going. There is no other human being on this earth that I can say that about.

Let’s lay this out in spiritual tones. It’s really very simple. Let God drive. Let Him do the navigating and planning of the best route to take you on this coming year. Well---actually for the rest of the drive. All the way to heaven’s gates. I guarantee you will enjoy the ride much more if you relinquish control of the steering wheel to the Master GPS.

So tell me ladies, who is holding the sign on the road you are on?
And what does it say? Go? Slow down? Wait? Stop? Or, maybe it says, "I am with you...always..." The sign is easily read. It's found in His word. Every promise. Every detail of our lives is completely covered.

Today this is what my sign read:

Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10 KJV

And then later I saw this sign:

I raise my eyes toward the mountains. Where will my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, THE Maker of heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; your protector will not slumber. Indeed, the Protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep. The LORD protects you; the LORD is a shelter right by your side. The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all harm; He will protect your life. The LORD will protect your coming and going both now and forever.
Psalm 121 Holman CSB

Before I send you on your way...allow me to share three things that our pastor, Stephen Potter shared with us at the beginning of 2008.

►Face your fears
►Forget your failures
►Follow your faith

God will be holding the sign, directing the flow of traffic. Don't take on more tasks than He has called you to this year. Clean out your closets--both spiritually and physically. (That is my yearly mantra.) AND last but not least---as you open up your heart to Him afresh each day, ask Him to reveal more of His Word and life to you as you dig in and study!

I'd love your visit at my blogs, The Knightly News and Sisters of Faith

Notes from a Prayer Journal

This week has been bittersweet. Our first Thanksgiving has come and gone without my sister, Wanda. She is with the Master---basking in His divine love and care! Happy and whole.

On Monday night of this week, Aimee, mother and I met with Mark at his house to, once again go through some of Wanda's things. He had asked us to go through her books and pick out what was special to us. Well, of course, all of them were! He gave us Cart Blanche.

Among those books is a prayer journal. I have to tell you that night when I arrived back home, I sat for more than an hour, just reading. Meditating on what she had received from the Word, and marveling at the spiritual growth I saw in her life. And, of course I cried a bit. Especially on her entry for January 7, 2006. Please allow me to share it with you.

Philippians 1:21 "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."

Can we say of our lives we live wholly for Christ as the apostle Paul did? "For me to live is Christ"...Yet, this alone is the love life of a Christian--it's source, it's sustenance, it's fashion, it's end. All gathered up in two words---Christ Jesus.

For me to live is Christ. Lord, burn that in my heart and mind. Lord, accept me; I here present myself, praying to live only in Thee and to Thee. Let me be as the bullock that stands between the plow and the altar, to work or to be sacrificed; and let my motto be, "ready for either."

From the prayer journal of Wanda Jakelsky.


She lived that motto. I can testify to that. She worked with a willing heart and devoted spirit---and with just that same devotion, she left this life with her hand neatly clasping His. Her release of the mortal shell that bound her with sickness came with much praise from our aching hearts. As we stood around her bed, and the line on the heart monitor became straight, I felt her take her gentle leave. As a conductor holds his arm for the musicians to reach the highest note, I felt her spirit soar up off the bed and into His waiting arms. And His love held her secure. And His love comforted our pain.

I can tell you with complete certainty---there is no pain in this life, that Jesus Christ cannot see you through.

The complete total desire of our hearts in this coming year---for the remaining days of our lives should be just that. Use us Father for Your glory. For Your work. In whatever manner You chose. Your ways are best. Much higher are Your plans than ours. May the desire of Your heart become the desires of our hearts. May we too be like the young bullock---ready for whatever service You chose.

Points to ponder~

Start a prayer journal if you never have. Write it out in your own hand. Your handwritten thoughts will mean much to those who follow in your footsteps.

Take some time these next few weeks and list out some things that you feel are hindering a closer relationship with Christ Jesus.

Also, call by name some areas where you want to see growth in your relationship with Christ.

Lastly, give the passion of your heart it's name and place in the front of your own prayer journal. Seek His will and direction in that calling of your heart.

Then stand by and watch what HE gloriously does in your life! And keep us posted!

I'd love your visit at my blogs, The Knightly News and Sisters of Faith

FROG

Kicking and screaming–that’s how I would describe myself on the brink of obedience.

Oh, sure. I want to obey. I encourage others to do that very thing. But when an action is required on my part for something I feel so UNQUALIFIED for...I start balking. Backing up. Not on God’s word though. In myself.

Haven’t I already told many—He will equip you when He calls you?

Did I tell you that? How many of my own words do I need to eat? " But—Lord— You KNOW ME! I can’t do that!" I am whining. I know it and He knows it. Can’t seem to stop myself though. He leans over and whispers... "I’m not asking YOU to do it. I will do it. All I want from you is an open heart and mouth."

I am humbled. Tears swell and fall. "Okay Lord." I should have known.

See, the thing is—I love LOVE writing. I told Him I’d do it everyday—all the time—spreading His life and love through the tap-tapping of my keyboard...through the scratching of my pen on cards and letters. And that may very well be where He keeps me...but I think, every now and again, He may pull me out of my comfort zone, the place where I think to myself—"hey I can do this"...almost in a fashion of not needing Him...but, you know as well as I do—I can’t put two words together to make a sentence without His guidance. But when He takes me OUT of the "zone of comfort"–the security of my abilities come to a screeching halt...and I rely solely on HIM.

Total insecurity in me...and fully relying on Him.

Isn’t that where He wants us all to be? Fully—Relying—On—God. F.R.O.G.

I think of that every time I see a frog. Can’t help myself. I feel like a hopping toad at times. He causes me to realize where all my strength lies. At the foot of the cross. Without the cross...I wouldn’t be here today.

What are you balking at today where He wants you to submit?

Are you backing up a bit–thinking you can’t? When He says, through Me, You can do all things.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13

Listen for His voice in the quiet. Listen in the noise of life. He speaks continually.




I'd love a visit from you to my personal blogs: Knightly News and/or Sisters of Faith!

The Car

I smile even now as I remember her face as I opened the door and the new red car shone like a bright polished apple behind her. You could have lit an entire city from the brilliance of her eyes and smile! I looked in amazement. “Who’s car Wanda?”

“It’s mine!” came the thrilled reply.

I really hope that my amazement…and confusion didn’t register on my face. I have the unfortunate disease called “talking face syndrome”. My face usually tells it like it is, whether my mouth does or not. So when she said that, my mind instantly thought, “But you don’t have a driver’s license.”

However, the mouth said “Wow! It is beautiful!”

Wanda had been practicing and I knew this, but I had no idea she was “ownership ready” yet. She had always been nervous about driving. I never knew exactly “why” she didn’t pursue the license issue when we were younger, but as time went by, I didn’t really think about it much. I rationalized that if I didn’t ---then she didn’t either.

But the fact was she did.

She longed for a bit of normalcy in her life, such as driving her daughter to school, just like the other mommies. She drove a bit with our pastor’s wife, Kathy, and a few times with a dear woman from our church, Ms. Shirley. I think she may have even taken our sister, Aimee for a spin….did I say spin? She “talked” about driving to me---but I never was able to go with her anywhere. I regret that.

Sometime after my sister Wanda passed away, her husband, Mark, felt that he needed to sell her car. After all, he could only drive one. A co-worker of mine had expressed an interest a few times and when the time came, I relayed the interest to Mark. They made contact with one another about the information, price, car details, etc., and Mark told her that I would drive it to work on Tuesday for her and her husband to test drive it.

I knew would be hard.

I tried to put “hard things” out of my mind. My mentality was, “if I don’t think about it, I won’t have to deal with it, therefore, it won’t be hard.”

All lies of course. Whether dealt with or not…the hard things of life will not go away. It does not sleep---rather it will stir your heart and mind and keep you from sleep.

So the morning of the drive in the little red car came and I had this sort of nervous feeling of “What will I feel when I sit down? When I crank it up?” Mark had told me the night before that Wanda had a little “CD” case inside the armrest compartment. Interested and wanting some music to flood my soul, as I started down the highway, I opened the compartment and pulled out this cute little light blue case with the words “Women of Faith” stamped into it.

Just as I was wondering what music would soon be filling my heart, a message in music (one that I could almost hear Wanda herself saying to me) came from the speakers.

“Lord, I’m glad You didn’t let me look ahead
to see the trials that I would have to face.
I would have lived my life caught up in fear and dread
and missed a lot of joys along the way”…

Since this was a devotional CD with music in the mix, the song faded away with the first verse. I was a puddle of emotion and tears. My eyes so filled with tears, I began to wipe at my eyes and face to see the road in front of me. Why I didn’t wear waterproof mascara was beyond me!

I could hear those very words coming from Wanda’s mouth. I searched for the handkerchief I had stuffed in my bag that morning. Smearing black around my eyes I knew I should have just left off any makeup at this point.

After the scripture verses were read, more of the song came through;

"On this journey I have had my share of tears,
Lonely days when I could not understand,
But then I’d hear You whisper gently,
Child, I’m here
And I knew that You were holding to my hand,
Every step has brought me closer Lord, to You

Every step that I have taken, every valley I’ve walked thru,
I have seen that your grace cannot be shaken,
Every step brought me closer Lord, to You".

I can’t tell you much about that drive to work that morning. What I can tell you is the Lord was more near than I had felt Him in days. (My fault---not His.)

Tucked neatly in the armrest compartment with the CD case, was a 4x6-index card in Wanda's neat printing that read, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13". Her verse for driving. His words for His dear child---to comfort and strengthen her in the tests of life.

The driving test is not unlike many tests we face on a daily basis.

Surrounded by others going to and from their stations in life, not knowing if they will keep to their lane, but trusting Him to carry us on to the destination He plans for each one of us.

On that particular morning, driving that particular car, my heart ached for a talk with Wanda. For just a few minutes to spend at her table. She would have definitely told me,

“Sister, please slow down. Life is short. For some, shorter than others. Take each moment and relish it to the fullest. Love God. Love others. Love life".

That is my message to each of you darling sisters today.

Slow down.

Life is short.

Eat cake.

Share a cup of coffee and listen to a friend.

You may be the only one she has to talk to.

We build sweet relationships with friends in the internet world and sometimes, neglect the very friends the Lord has blessed our lives with. Lend a shoulder and lend a hand.

It's nearing Fall, a time when I love to clear out the house of things that I don't need. Suggest a shared cleaning with a friend. By that I mean, you go to her house and help her and then she in turn will come to your house! Fellowship and clean houses! What can be better?

Father, You alone know our days length. Fulfill Your divine purpose in each of our lives. Help us to be an encouragement and load lifter for our sisters in need. There are many. You love us all the same. I love You Lord! Use me. I'm Yours. In the name of Jesus Christ~Amen

God bless you all!

I'd love your visit at Knightly News!

Song: Every Step by Rebecca J. Peck
Thomas Peck Music (BMI)
Peck’s Corner Publishing (ASCAP)
Peck Publishing House (SESAC)

Help is on the Way

"What City and State please?" City?? Well I knew the City...and I knew the State. As I spouted the necessary information back to the Emergency Response Operator, I began to wonder at my state. Not my location...but my actual state.

"Was anyone bleeding?" No mam. "Are there any fluids coming from any of the vehicles?" No mam, not that I can tell. "Are you alright?" Yes mam. A few more questions and she informed me that help was on the way. Help is on the way. Help....is on.....the way.

When I disconnected the call on my cell phone that Friday afternoon, the phone made a beeping noise it had never made before, flashed a light and then the front cover said "EMERGENCY MODE". It reminded me every time I looked at it that "help was on the way." I need not worry. Just relax.

God's word does the same thing. It gives us reminders. EVERY single time we pick it up.

God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

Psalm 121:1-4 says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep."

Sounds to me like He's more reliable than Onstar. More reliable than the 911 operator. Which that reminds me, one of the girls from my office recently witnessed an accident and called 911 from her phone. Guess what? Her phone did the same thing. "Emergency Mode" appeared on the screen followed by strange beeping and her signal was set. Just like mine. Just like yours...every time you pray you send up a signal to the throne, and your position is marked.

Years ago, a minister told the story of a close friend who was going through some severe problems in her marriage. So severe in fact, that they were already at the divorce stage. As she was driving one day, weeping before the Lord, crying out to God of her dire circumstances, with her broken heart laid bare, God gave her a picture in the sky.

Being an amateur photographer, she always had her camera handy. She pulled off the highway, raised the view finder to her eye, to capture the incredible colors in the cloud formation, and snapped the shot. As she continued home, she prayed for the Lord to reveal to her heart what she should do. She had lived in the pain so long that she couldn't see God in it anymore.

When she developed the roll of film, the picture she took by the roadside that day brought surprise and peace to her heart. When she thought she was photographing simply some unusual clouds and colors in the sky, the developed photograph was decidedly different. The picture resembled an angel hovering in the sky, as if to send a message to her heart. "I am here. Help is on the way." Whether there was just an unusual cloud formation or not, God touched her life that day. He gave her the message that "HE was with her in her trouble".

I don't know what is going on in your life today. Maybe the circumstances are so hard to handle, you have not told anyone. The wound may be too fresh. It may be too deep. Whatever it may be, God is not so far off that He can't be reached. Go ahead. Dial His 911 line. It's found in the Word.

Some suggested readings:

Psalm 102:17; Psalm 62:5; Psalm 30:2; Psalm 33:20; Psalm 18 (whole chapter!)

Many times in the Psalms we are instructed to "Sing to the Lord a new song". I encourage you to find some good worship songs on CD. Play those over and over while you work, drive, or rest. Fill the hours of your day with as much "worship" as you possibly can. If you are filling every available space of your heart from encouraging and uplifting sources, the enemy has a harder time trying to find an inroad into your life.

For the Lord GOD will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed. Isaiah 50:7 KJV (emphasis mine)

It's absolute truth. He will be your help. Call on Him. Lean on Him. Seek His face and stay in the WORD. That's where your strength lies.

God bless you all!

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Belly-Button Hindrances

I have a good friend that is totally "hip". Really "with-it". All the things I am not.

Well, I have hips...substantial ones. And my "with-it"...sounds more like something I'd say after I had been to the dentist and returned with my mouth numb...

I asked her permission to share this story with you. When it happened...hmmm, let's just say---the LORD spoke to me through it.

Lisa was having trouble with her back. Her neck. Her shoulder. This was tough---especially since she is a faithful gym-goer. She had been having trouble with "strength" ---lifting the weights. So she made an appointment to see her Chiropractor.

As he began to examine her, and question her, he maneuvered her for a response to her reflexes, testing her resistance, and he noticed the weakness on one side. "Lisa", he said with a questioning tone, "do you have a belly-button ring?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact, I do". She replied--she was, after all very "hip and with-it", and loved her belly-button ring.

"Do you mind taking it out?" Dr. Carnes needed to prove what he felt was the problem.

After she removed the metal, he began his testing all over. This time, her body reacted differently to each maneuver. She had strength. It was almost like you had removed the cryptonite from Superman's space and his strength returned.

With a puzzled expression, she wanted to know why it made a difference. His explanation made perfect sense. The metal, or foreign object was interrupting the energy flow of her body. Something was blocking her physical strength. But once the hindrance was removed...strength returned.

Do you see what I saw? The instant parallel of our strength in Christ vs. the hindrances of the world came racing to my mind.

"Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." Romans 12:2 NLT

To her, and many others, the belly-button ring was attractive. A symbol. But to her body, it was a hindrance. Might not have been noticed before. May not have even "felt" the resistance before. But at this time in her life...the change of the energy flow was noticed. She is only a few years younger than I am, but in excellent physical condition. I on the other hand, well, if you know me...you know. I am a bookoholic instead of a gymoholic. It shows.

After she told me this, I immediately told her, "you know this will have to be a blog". I smiled, already hearing the Lord speaking to my heart. Because He knows me. He knows the things I have been neglecting so long they are now "hindrances" in my walk.

"Examine your life Angie. What is blocking your "energy flow". Are you full of My strength? You know from your past experience what happens when you try to conform to the world. In order to fit in you allow things to come between what I desire for you."

Well, you could have knocked me out of my rolling chair with a feather! In my past I know there have been many times that I wanted to be a part of the world that seemed to be fun---so much so, that my decisions were warped. Poor decisions made an impact in my life that was NOT pleasant. But I was thinking...surely not now. Why, surely I am right on track...But after thinking this over....I can find things that need to be removed from my heart and life to increase my energy flow.

I took a phone survey and even polled some random ladies with a simple question: What are some things that we allow to hinder our relationship with Christ:

• TV (too much of it, and the type of programming---we are what we feed our minds);
• Busyness and/or obsessive housework (as in the Martha Syndrome);
• Excessive secular reading (neglecting the Bible);
• Unforgiveness (self-explanatory);
• Anger (self-explanatory);
• Greed (desirous of worldly things); and
• Envy (wanting what everyone else has). Another late entry of the survey came in after I came home from work. It seemed the opposite of one, but when she explained, I instantly saw how it could quickly become a hindrance. Having a clutter filled house and life.

The first one listed was mentioned by more than one person. It deserved top ranking. The next ones listed fell as suggested by those I polled. They all fall in the category of being a "belly-button ring". So-to-speak. A strength zapper. If not attended, I think it could even cripple.

I have embarked on an "examination" of my life. I am on the table. The Lord is probing my heart and life for the unnecessary. I don't have any piercings other than my ears, but there are MANY things that need to be dealt with in my life. Things that left unattended in my life will drain every ounce of spiritual strength I have. Whatever it is, I can say with certainty, it has lost it's attractiveness---due to the consequences it is causing in my life. Time to remove my belly-button ring hindrances.

Father in heaven, reveal to me--to each one of us--the hindrances in our lives. I need to know. I want to see it for what it is and deal with it once and for all. Forgive me for waiting so long. Some of the issues may have been here so long they are deeply embedded. Remove them from my life. Pour in the peroxide to boil out the wound. I ask with all sincerity of heart that the anointing of the Holy Spirit flow through my life as a river that I never before experienced! Help us to reach new heights in serving You. I am Yours. Wholly and completely. In the awesome name of Jesus I pray. Believing in You~Amen.
Your turn.

• Are you as close as you can be to Jesus?
• Think about what might be hindering your walk with Christ. Resolve to take control of it and remove it from your life.
• Make a list of hindrances. Share them with others. Shine the spotlight on the issues so that they are exposed. Exposure can bring about closure.
  

I'd love your visit at Knightly News!