Life Journal January 29, 2008
Today's readings: Exodus 23,24; Psalm 14; Acts 5

Rejoicing in Suffering

Scripture

The council accepted this advice. [Gamaliel had advised that the council leave the apostles alone. "If they are teaching and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is of God, you not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God." Acts 5.38-39] They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go. The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God counted them worthy to suffer dishonor for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and in their homes, they continued to teach and preach this message: "The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus."

Acts 5.40-42

Observation

The apostles counted it as joy to suffer for Jesus.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

Would I be rejoicing after being flogged?? Very humbling. Makes me think about how blessed we are to live in a country where, at this time, we still have religious freedom. What would I do if we didn't? There are millions who do not have this same freedom . . . they are beaten, tortured, and killed for their faith. Would my faith be able to stand that kind of test?

I take it all for granted, this freedom I have. It makes me "soft."

How bold am I willing to be? What am I willing to do for Jesus . . . .no matter what the cost? May I be found faithful in the face of persecution. May I be found bold in my sharing. May I be found rejoicing as I serve--whatever the circumstances.

Prayer

Lord, I am thankful for where I live. But, I am ashamed at how I take my freedom for granted. How I whine when things get a little tough or I am faced with challenges. Lord, I pray for strength, for wisdom, for boldness. May I stand for You in all settings. May I speak on your behalf everywhere I go. May I remember those who are persecuted for their faith. . . and gain strength from their faith. Lord, I want to serve You. I want to stand firmly, no matter what. Lord, may I be found faithful in my service to You.

Life Journal January 28, 2008
Today's readings: Exodus 21, 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4

One Heart

Scripture

All the believers were of one heart and mind, and they felt that what they owned was not their own; they shared everything they had. And the apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus and God's great favor was upon them all. There was no poverty amon them, because people who owned land or houses sold them, and brought the money to the apostles to give to others in need.

Acts 4.32-35

Observation

When we see our lives and everything we own as belonging to God, we can live in unity--with one heart and mind--because there is nothing to distract us.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

How contrary to today's world is the concept of "what they owned was not their own;" and "they shared everything they had." We are told to own and buy more. . . . our value is found in what we have . . . . not in who we are. How different would the world of believers be if we lived this way? How differen would the world be?

Not only did they live it out, they gave powerful witness. . . and God's great favor was upon them.

What if we did simplify? What if we didn't worry about tomorrow? What if we gave God all of ourselves and all that we have--for His use? I know my life would certainly look and be different. My priorities would change. Less would be more. And isn't that what Jesus taught--that God's ways are the opposite of the worlds?

So, first steps. Downsize. Give away all that I don't use. I don't need all that I have. . . I don't even use a lot of it. Look at how I use my money. Is it how God would call me to use it? Be open to the opportunities He calls me to help others. Be bold about who I serve and why.

Each of these are steps in a bigger journey. But, I can't get anywhere if I don't take that first step. And there is no better time to start than now.

Prayer

Lord, help me to simplify my life and my possessions. I want to live the life You are calling me to . . . and I can't when I am weighted down with "things." I offer everything I have to you. It all belongs to You. Use me and what I have for Your Kingdom. May I be found faithful in all things.

Life Journal January 23, 2007
Today's readings: Exodus 6-8; Luke 23

It's Never Too Late

Scripture

One of the criminals who were suspended kept up a railing at Him, saying, Are You not the Christ, the Messiah? Rescue Yourself and us (from death)!

But the other one reproved him, saying, Do you not even fear God, seeing you yourself are under the same sentence of condemnation and suffering the same penalty? And we indeed suffer it justly, receiving the due reward of our actions; but this Man has done nothing out of the way--nothing strange or eccentric or perverse or unreasonable.

Then he said to Jesus, Lord, remember me when You come in Your kingly glory!

And He answered him, Truly, I tell you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.

Luke 23.39-43

Observation

It is never too late to give your life over to Jesus. . . He is always there waiting for us.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

This is one of my favorite Scriptures. [I say that a lot. . . .hmmm] But there is an important lesson for me in it. That I cannot judge another because a personal relationship with Jesus is available until the end. It is never too late. . . . no matter what I think.

Another important lesson for me--while I know it, I really do, I need to be reminded--I am not saved by anything I do. The criminal on the cross did not get down and do good works. He was saved by faith, through the gift of grace.

And, obviously the criminal did not get baptized before he was "saved." He was saved through His acceptance of Christ's offer. So often folks think that there is some saving power to baptism, when there isn't. Baptism is a public profession--an announcement of our change of heart.

The last piece that is important for me to remember is the immediacy of the transport of our souls to heaven. Jesus clearly tells him here that he will be with Him today in Paradise. That's something to celebrate!!

Lots of lessons for me today. While not new--important for me to remember and to be and live differently because of them.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truths in today's readings. No wonder it is called Good News! Help me to keep these verses in my mind and my heart as I walk through my days. May I see others as You see them! Thank You for Your amazing love for me!

Life Journal January 22, 2008
Today's Readings: Exodus 3-5; Luke 22

Who me?

Scripture

[God speaking] ". . . The cries of the people of Israel have reached me, and I have seen how the Egyptians have oppressed them with heavy tasks. Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You will lead my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt."

"But who am I to appear before Pharaoh?" Moses asked God. "How can you expect me to lead the Israelites out of Egypt?"

Then God told him, "I will be with you. And this will serve as proof that I have sent you. . . ."

But Moses pleaded with the LOrd, "O Lord, I'm just not a good speaker. I never have been, and I'm not now, even after you have spoken to me. I'm clumsy with words."

"Who makes mouths?" the Lord asked him. "Who makes people so they can speak or not speak, hear or not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go, and do as I have told you. I will help you speak well, and I will tell you what to say."

But Moses again pleaded, "Lord, please! Send someone else."

Exodus 3.9-12; 4.10-13

Observation

God uses the most unlikely [and sometimes stubborn] people to change the world.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

The reading in Exodus today is one of my favorites. God APPEARS to Moses in a burning bush . . . and Moses argues with Him. God tells Moses that He will be with him. God gives Moses signs to demonstrate His power. And yet, Moses begs for God to pick someone else.

How like Moses I can be. More afraid of what others will think and how they will react then what God will think. God appears to me in and through His Word. He clearly shows me what He wants me to do . . . . and yet, I argue. I ask Him to show me His will, what He wants me to do . . . and when He does--I say, 'Oh, not that. Something else please.'

So, how will I be different today? By listening, trusting, and walking in what He calls me to. . . . whether it is what I want to hear and do or not. Remembering that I can do all things through Christ.

Prayer

Lord, I want to be faithful in serving You. I want to do what You call me to do. But, Lord, I need Your strength, wisdom, and power to do it. Thank You for Your promises that You are with me. . . even when I don't feel Your presence--I know that I can trust in You. Walk with me Lord. Help me to stand strong in all that You have called me to do in Your name. Use me to change the world for You!

Life Journal January 21, 2008
Today's readings: Exodus 1-2; Psalm 88; Luke 21

God's Ways

Scripture

So the Egyptians made the Israelites their slaves and put brutal slave drivers over them, hoping to wear them down, under heavy burdens. They forced them to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king. But the more the Egyptians oppressed them, the more quickly the Israelites multiplied! The Egyptians soon became alarmed and decided to make their slavery more bitter still. . . . Years passed, and the king of Egypt died. But the Israelities still groaned beneath their burden of slavery. They cried out for help, and their pleas for deliverance rose up to God. God heard their cries and remembered his covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He looked down on the Israelites and felt deep concern for their welfare.

Exodus 1.12-13, 2.23-25

Observation

God's way is not always our way and often His timing is not ours--but we can always trust in His promises and His faithfulness.

Application

It is easy to get discouraged when our burdens seem so heavy. We question "where is God??" Our prayers seem to go unanswered. We can feel lost and forgotten. But, that is when we must hold on to the truths that we know--we must hold on to God's promises.

"I will never fail you, I will never forsake you." Hebrwes 13.5b

"The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" Hebrews 13.6

"The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day." Lamentations 3.22-23

Nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels can't, and the demons can't. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can't keep God's love away. Whether we are high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8.38-39

When all seems lost, I have His promises to hold on to. Thanks be to God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises. They are there for me, so I can hold on when all seems impossible or lost. Please continue to hold tightly to me and continue to walk with me--guiding each step of my way--even when I don't understand or try to go another direction. I want to follow Your path . . . no matter the cost. [That's really scarey to say, Lord--yet, I know that I can say it with the confidence that You are with me.] Thank You for loving me too much to leave me the same. Thank You for changing me every day to become more and more the person You are calling me to be.

Life Journal January 18, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis 44-46; Luke 18

Humble Prayer

Scripture

Then Jesus told this story to some who had great self-confidence and scorned everyone else: "Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a dishonest tax collector. The proud Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: 'I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else, especially like that tax collector over there! For I never cheat, I don't sin, I don't commit adultery. I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.'

"But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, 'O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.' I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For the proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored."

Luke 18.9-14

Observation

We need to remember who we truly are when we stand before God.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

If we have been in the church very long at all it is easy to be very much like the Pharisee. . . . when in truth, we are very much like the tax collector. We forget who we are--and we certainly forget to whom we pray.

It is so easy to fool ourselves into believing that we aren't all that bad. . . . when in truth, we are sinners. While I am a believer, saved by the grace of God through His Son, Jesus Christ . . . . . I still sin. I want others to see the "sin-free" me. . . . so I put on my mask and pretty clothes and go off to church. When inside I have sin. . . . it lies in the darkness and grows until I bring it out and let the Light shine on it.

It is so easy to be the Pharisee in this story . . . . it is so much harder to be the tax collector--being honest about who I really am.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I am a sinner saved by Your amazing gift of grace. I recognize that I never outgrow my need for Your grace in my life. As Paul said, I continue to do the things I don't want to do. Lord, I do not see that as an excuse for sinning--I see it as an opportunity to continually examine my life and ask You to point out those areas that I need to work on. Lord, I am not worthy . . . . . all my worth and value comes from being Your child. Thank You for loving me so much.

Life Journal January 17, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis 42, 43; Psalm 5; Luke 17

A Simple Thank You

Scripture

As Jesus continued on toward Jerusalem, he reached the border between Galilee and Samaria. As he entered a village there, ten lepers stood at a distance, crying out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"

He looked at them and said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, their leprosy disappeared.

One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, "Praise God, I'm healed!" He fell face down on the ground at Jesus' feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Does only this foreigner return to give glory to God?" And Jesus said to the man, "Stand up and go. Your faith has made you well."

Luke 17.11-19

Observation

It is important to recognize all that God does for us . . . and say "Thank you!" and praise Him.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

How often do I forget to say thank you to God? How often do I take for granted what He does for me--almost like I deserve His blessings. How simple it is to thank Him for all He does for me. How important it is for me to praise Him for what He has done for me rather than focus on what He hasn't done yet.

We teach our children manners. . . . . yet, we are so slow to thank God for His many, many blessings. I wonder how much more God would bless us, answer our prayers, pour out on us if we just took the time to praise Him, worship Him . . . . . thank Him.

Philippians 4.6 says "Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done."

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for not appreciating and saying thank You for all You do for me. Forgive me for taking You for granted, or for treating You as a prayer request vending machine. Lord, You do so much for me and bless me in so many ways. May I always be found coming back to You to praise You and to say Thank You. May I remember to always be thank-filled, especially when You answer my prayers Your way and not mine--knowing that I can trust You. Thank You for loving me so very much. In Jesus name . . .

Life Journal January 16, 2007
Today's readings: Genesis 39-41; Luke 16

Trusting God In the Midst

Scripture

"The Lord was with Joseph and blessed him greatly as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. Potiphar noticed this and realized that the Lord was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did. So Joseph naturally became quite a favorite with him. Potiphar soon put Joseph in charge of his entire household and entrusted him with all his business dealings. From the day Joseph was put in charge, the Lord began to bless Potiphar for Joseph's sake. All his household affairs began to run smoothly, and his crops and livestock flourished. So Potiphar gave Joseph complete administrative responsibility over everything he owned. With Joseph there, he didn't have a worry in the world, except to decide what he wanted to eat. . . . After hearing his wife's story, Potiphar was furious! He took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king's prisoners were held. But the Lord was with Joseph there, too, and he granted Joseph favor with the chief jailer. Before long, the jailer put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and over everything that happened in the prison. The chief jailer had no more worries after that, because Joseph took care of everything. The Lord was with him, making everything run smoothly and successfully."

Genesis 39.2-6a, 19-23

Observation

No matter what our circumstances, we need to live and act out of the truth we know--that God is with us. And, that He can use any circumstance to show His power and bless us.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I just read?)

Joseph is thrown in a pit by his brothers, sold to Ishmaelite traders, [read Genesis 37] and then sold to a member of Pharaoh's personal staff. That in itself would be enough to make you question where God was, why He would allow this to happen to you.

But, God was with Joseph--and blessed him.

Then Potiphar's wife framed Joseph for rape and he is thrown into prison. And even there, God remained with him and blessed him.

How often do things go in a way that I would question God's plan and presence? I forget to look past myself and my circumstances to what God is doing and wants to do. How many opportunities have I missed to be used by God and to be blessed by Him because I was too focused on my circumstances--rather than on what He can do in and through those circumstances.

God's Word tells us to "Always be joyful" and "No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." [1 Thessalonians 5.16, 18] How different my life can be if I keep my eyes upon God and not upon how I perceive my circumstances!

Prayer

Father God, may I walk in Your power. May I see life through Your eyes. May I not miss the blessings and opportunities You have for me because I am focused on myself. Help me to remember that the picture is bigger than what I can see. May I serve You in all that I do, bringing you glory and honor in all circumstances. Thank You for calling me to be Your own.

Life Journal January 10, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis 25,26; Psalm 6; Luke 10

Loving God Shows

Scripture

And then a certain lawyer arose to try (test, tempt) Him, saying, Teacher, what am I to do to inherit everlasting life [that is, to partake of eternal salvation in the Messiah's kingdom]?

Jesus said to him, What is written in the Law? How do you read it?

And he replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself. [Lev. 19.18; Deut. 6.5]

And Jesus said to him, You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live [enjoy active, blessed, endless life in the kingdom of God].

And he, determined to acquit himself of reproach, said to Jesus, And who is my neighbor?

Luke 10.25-29 (Amplified Bible)

Observation

We are to love God with all that we are and have . . . and that love . . . .His love will pour out of us and into the lives of those God puts in our path.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

If I love God with my entire being--if I pour all of myself into loving Him, then I will love others. The needs of others will come before my own. I won't demand my own way, but will instead seek God's way. The more I love God, the more I will love others. . . . and the more it will show. I will not judge them, I will do what I can to help them and love them.

And, this means all those that God puts in my life--whether it is the single mom who makes poor choices, the drunk, the drug addict, the self-righteous church member, the "normal" folks, . . . . I will have compassion on all of them--just as Jesus did.

But, I must die to myself if I am to be filled loving Him and with His love. I cannot look down on others, I am called to love them--all of them.

May I love God more and more . . . . and may that pour out of my life as it fills it to overflowing and into the lives of all those He puts in my path.

Prayer

Father, my prayer today is that I learn and practice loving You more and more--with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my strength, with all my mind. I pray that my love for You would fill me so completely that there isn't room for anything else. That my love for You would remove all self-centeredness and pour out into the lives of others. I would pray that when others look at me they would only see You at work in my life. Consume me Lord. I want to be completely totally Yours.

Life Journal January 9, 2008
Today's Readings: Genesis 23, 24; Luke 9

Living Simply

Scripture

Jesus now called the Twelve and gave them authority and power to deal with all the demons and cure diseases. He commissioned them to preach the new of God's Kingdom and heal the sick. He said, "Don't load yourselves up with equipment. Keep it simple; you are the equipment. And no luxury inns-get a modest place and be content there until you leave. If you're not welcomed, leave town. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and move on."

Luke 9.1-5 (The Message)

Observation

It's not what we have that matters--it's who we are that makes the difference.

Application (How will I be different today because of what I have just read?)

"Keep it simple; YOU are the equipment." Certainly not what the world would tell us. In our society what we have tells others our value. And as believers, we fall for what the world tells us. And we have wonderful excuses--we have to keep up if we are going to reach people. We have offer what they are use to. More is better. And there are pastors who are just as guilty. . . . I think of one who owns a private jet and lives in a mansion and I have known others who "need to keep up with those they are ministering to" so they live in expensive homes and drive expensive cars. Far from a simple life.

But, before I go throwing anymore stones, I better look at my own life. I can get caught up in the more is better mentality really quick. But, when I go there . . . I quickly realize that "things" don't satisfy. They don't fill the needs in my life. Now if I can just learn to realize that before I buy more! [smile]

Jesus isn't saying we shouldn't have what we need in life--just that we don't need the biggest and the best to be happy. That is worshiping the wrong things. . . . and when we do that our priorities get all mixed up--and God, slips further and further down on our list.

So, how will I be different. I will focus on what is truly important. I will do my best to be a good steward of what God has given me. I want to live a simple life and I need to be intentional if I am going to make that happen. Simple is the life we are called to live.

Prayer

God, I confess, I get caught up in the world's idea of what's important. I begin believing that more will make me happier--when in truth, my happiness/contentment can only be found in you. Give me the wisdom and strength to make the best decisions. Help me to learn to be content in life. . . . . not driven. Thank You for Your truths.

Life Journal January 8, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis20-22; Luke 8

Freedom

Scripture
When the herdsmen saw it, they fled to the nearby city and the surrounding countryside, spreading the news as they ran. A crowd soon gathered around Jesus, for they wanted to see for themselves what had happened. And they saw the man who had been possessed by demons sitting quietly at Jesus' feet, clothed and sane. And the whole crowd was afraid. Then those who had seen what happened told the others how the demon-possessed man had been healed. And all the people in that region begged Jesus to go away and leave them alone, for a great wave of fear swept over them.

So Jesus returned to the boat and left, crossing back to the other side of the lake. The man who had been demon possessed begged to go, too, but Jesus said, "No, go back to your family and tell them all the wonderful things God has done for you." So he went all through the city telling about the great thing Jesus had done for him.

Luke 8.34-39

Observation

There are those who embrace the freedom that Jesus brings into our lives and those who run from it in fear.

Application (How will I be different because of what I just read?)

Amazing story to me. A demon-possessed man is freed from his tormentors and healed--and the people beg Jesus to leave. You would think they would celebrate and want the same freedom in their lives, but they don't.

It seems strange--and yet . . . . how often do I see God at work in my own life and want to run--fearful of what the cost might be--fearful of the change. Rather than embrace what God is doing (or trying to do) in my life . . . I run for the cover of what I know, what "feels" safe.

How different my life could be if I would learn to trust God more . . . even when it's painful . . . . and allow Jesus to set me free.

Then, just like the demon-possessed man, I would have even more wonderful stories to tell about the great things Jesus had done for me.

It is time to allow Jesus to come in and heal me . . . to free me from all those things that bind me. All those areas that I have kept closed off . . . . I hear Him saying to me, "Let me in . . . .completely. Don't hold anything or any area back from me . . . trust me. I will bring healing to you. I will free you from all that holds you captive. You are mine and I want you to be whole and well."

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the hard lesson today. I like to see myself as trusting You, but You have shown me that I have not trusted You with all areas of my life. Today, once again, I give You me. And, I will continue to turn my life over to You as often and as much as I need to--I know that I keep pulling back, keep taking back what I give to You. I will do my best, with Your help, to continue to release all that I hold so tightly to. Forgive me for all that I hold back from You. Forgive me for not trusting You completely. Forgive me for not being obedient. Thank You for Your promises. Thank You for Your love. . . . and patience with me. Today is a new day. Today I choose to walk in the Light.

Life Journal January 7, 2008
Today's readings: Genesis 18-19; Psalm 3; Luke 7

Forgiven Much

Scripture

Then Jesus told him this story: "A man loaned money to two people--five hundred pieces of silver to one and fifty pieces to the other. But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts. Who do you supposed loved him more after that?"

Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt."

"That's right," Jesus said. Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, "Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn't offer the water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You didn't give me a kiss of greeting, but she has kissed my feet again and agin from the time I first came in. You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume. I tell you, her sins--and they are many--have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love."

Luke 7.41-47

Observation

When we recognize how sinful we truly are--we see the abundance of God's love and grace. . . . and we have more of it to share.

Application

It is often easy to forget who I was BEFORE Christ--I really don't like to remember just how sin-filled my life was. And, if I'm not careful, I can easily overlook the sins in my life now--as I am busy judging others for the sin in their lives. . . . and I become as the Pharisee in this Scripture.

I still have sin in my life . . . . more than I really care to admit. I'm working (with God's help) to overcome it . . . . but, it's still there. There are others out there who's sin is more obvious than mine--easier to judge than mine because it is in the open. But, sin is sin. My "unseen" sins are just as bad as those that can be easily seen in someone else.

As a believer, it is hard to admit that I still have sin in my life. I certainly don't want others to see it, so I hide it (or at least I think I do) and don't bring it to the Light. What I need to remember is that it is in the darkness that it grows (that is where the enemy wants me to put it)--it is when I shine Christ's light on it that it can be seen and then dealt with.

The debt that I have been forgiven is huge. My life should reflect my deep love and gratefulness for what Christ has done for me. I want to be the woman at Jesus' feet--not the Pharisee who doesn't recognize that I have sin in my life. To do this, I must not hide my sins . . . . but instead continue to pray that God will help me see the sin in my life, confess it, and then repent from it (turn and go in the opposite direction). I must allow myself to be held accountable--therefore I must confess my sins to others (James 5.16). Not easy to do--but doable because I don't have to do it on my own. God has promised to walk the journey with me. Thank You God for not allowing me to remain the same.

Prayer

Wow! A powerful, life-changing lesson today God. It's not new--but today I am hearing it with new ears and a new heart. Thank You. Continue to work in me Lord so that I am changed and transformed to be more and more like Jesus. I have so far to go, but I can do it . . . one step at a time, one day at a time. Give me the strength I need to be the person you have called me to be. Thank You for forgiving my sins. Thank You for Your Son, Jesus, who came and paid the price for my sins. I want to walk in the freedom of your forgiveness--not in the chains of my sin. Thank You for breaking those chains. Your love for me is overwhelming. I accept it. And, Father, I love You!