Obey

I am amazed today in the Christian world how little is spoken of obedience to God. We are saved by grace- prasie God! But I believe that we do not grow when we hold back from God our total honest commitment. I find in myself when I hold on to any area of God, my grow stops.

It makes sense doesn't it? Why would God continue to give us more growth when we refuse to do what he has asked?

Today, may we all be willing to obey, grow and be in love with God.

Listen and Obey

Have you ever wondered between two roads? You honestly want to know God's direction but don't know what path he is pointing to you. Maybe you have been given a chance to move to a better positions, meaning greater income for your family. But that means moving from aging parents. You pray and pray: God what would you have me to do.

I am in some valleys like that now. I pray, seeking; but my answers will not fall open on a bible page. Recently while in deep prayer God sent me an idea. He reminded me that his followers walked under the cloud. When it stopped they stopped. When it moved, they moved. I believe God was telling me, "Hey just move as I lead you. Don't try and rush things. Take care of what I give you now; and then when I want you to do something else- I will lead you."

I am trying now to walk daily just under the cloud. Not running ahead, or looking back wondering if I made the right choices. If I daily commit to be 100% obedient to God, isn't he able then to lead me all of the way.

Please pray for me, as I try to listen and obey.

Junky

Recently I tried to help one of my friend which is very addicted to drugs. Over and over we seem to travel the same circle. She used me and I am still angry and frustrated. I wonder if there is any use at all of trying to help a drug addict. It seems impossible for them to leave that life behind.

But, I can not give up. God died for that "junky" and he never gives up on us. I am sure there are many times: he too, wonders why we continue to ruin our lives.

Do pray for my dear friend which is running after a needle. It has cost her, her children; self-esteem and if she does not stop: her life. Pray for me too, that I have the heart of God: kind, loving and full of compassion.

A Kind Witness

I sat in an AA meeting yesterday. I have not had a drink in my life; but I was there to support a friend. After the meeting I purchased a book to read. As I left a gentleman handed me a paper with his phone number and email. It touched me. Since I do not drink; I have no need for a recovery number in that way. But his caring reminds me of what Jesus would do. I can just see Jesus humbly offering his services; without comment or condemnation. That man was a witness to me of kindness.

A Day of Joy

Yesterday was refreshing. I spent most of the day just doing chores; but instead of running I kept at home and did chore after chore. The day ran so smoothly I felt revived. The thing that made the day so extra special is I anticipated a busy day running here and there. I gave my busy day to God and kept going. Everything fell in place so smoothly that I left the day in joy.

I am glad when God is in control, things move so different than what I plan; but life is much more fun when he does the day scheduling.

Liquor--Or Life

Hi; Jazz here again. I'm gonna keep this one refreshingly short, unlike my last post! I just want to share this for the benefit of my fellow alcoholics/drug addicts. A lot of times, I find myself grumbling that I can't have a beer a day for my heart health, as heart disease does run in my family. But that's just one excuse. Even if it didn't run in my family, I'd surely find plenty of other reasons; they come a dime a dozen with me! Sometimes it's nothing more than "I saw one on TV"! How's that for an excuse to do something dangerous and self-destructive?! Or one of my other favorites is: "It's a holiday, according to the calendar, so gotta celebrate it!" Yeah, but somehow I don't think God will give me the green light to have a beer (or several!) to honor George Washington's birthday, or even Benjamin Franklin's birthday! And I'm positive He won't give permission to go get a 6-pack in honor of Popcorn Day or Friendship Day, or the day the moon comes out full! Nope, not even then! What it comes down to is the only real choice I have, ANY day of the year: LIQUOR OR LIFE! No other options for me! And no other options for ANYONE addicted to drugs or alcohol. So stay strong and God bless; Jazz.

Salesmen

Today I had salesmen come to my door. They were trying to draft me into doing business with them. They were young and I respect that they are trying to earn a living; but these men put down competitors, made small talk I knew was insincere and I was left with a bad taste in my mouth. The literature they left me will be lining my trash can.

I have no doubt these men were trying to do a good job; but instead of making me want their product I turned away from it. If they had been honest, and respectful: it would have interested me more.

I wonder how often I have embarrassed Jesus with my testimony. How many times have I pushed my faith as a used car salesman. Jesus said to give our testimony. No one can discount my own testimony. It is mine. I can be honest, and tactful. I can be respectful of people's time as well. Won't it make more of an impression being genuine? This was a lesson for me.

Food Addict

I am an addict to food. Yesterday I just lost control. Am I proud of that? Absolutley not, I left the day frustrated and in guilt. I believe God looks with mercy on those of us trying to overcome an addiction. We need to remember that God does not want us trapped to addictions. He expects us to take steps available, but on the journey to recovery: He is our best advocate. He walks with us, and is ready at all times when we call on him.

A Long Road--And A Long Message!

Hi everyone; Jazz here again. I'm gonna take a risk tonight, and share, not only one of my favorite Scriptures, but why it means so very much to me. The Scripture is from Psalm 73, and I especially cherish verse 26: "My body and my mind may become weak, but God is my strength. He is mine forever." (New Century Version).

This verse is becoming more precious to me in my middle age years, as I have dealt all my life with anxiety and panic disorder, as well as OCD, and some severe phobias I cannot seem to overcome--yet! I am taking medication to help, and I have some wonderful friends and family that love me and put up with my sometimes lunatic and anti-social ways! For instance, I cannot travel more than 10-20 miles without having a meltdown for fear of a car wreck; needless to say, I cannot even go visit my brother or my sister who live many miles away! And get me on the freeway for more than a mile, and I'm hyperventilating and go back and forth between reassuring myself it will be all right, and picturing the horrendous wreck I'm about to suffer! Is it rational? Of course not. But is it real? Well, let me see...is the pulse rate of 120 real? Um, yeah! Oh well.

I know God loves and understands me, even when no one else can, including me! I hate having emotional/anxiety issues but I'm glad to know God is just as much there when I'm feeling all out of control as when I'm sitting home relaxed and reading His Word. HE is the One in control, when I'm all tapped out of self-control and courage! To know that God understands who I am and how I am made, inside and out, brings me comfort, and I hope it will bring you comfort during your hard times as well. God knows us better than we could possibly know ourselves, and has even more love and compassion than our closest friends--sometimes we can drive THEM crazy with our problems! But God made us all and knows us all more intimately than anybody on earth ever can. And when we feel we're out of control, one thing comforts me more than anything: GOD IS IN CONTROL, AND HE IS WITH ME, NO MATTER HOW WELL OR SICK MY MIND IS OPERATING! God bless you and be with you today--in all times and all moods. Love Jazz.

Wind Storm

Yesterday my daughter was home. I love her so much and having her here has been bitter/sweet. The sweet girl that I raised, so innocent has been changed by moving away. But, as she talked I could see she is doing some thinking. A little flame for Jesus is still inside. It is not big, but it is there. I say a silent prayer of thanks to God for that bit of flame.

I can not change my daughter, but I can blow lots of wind on that flame. The Holy Spirit comes like a fire and often in the wind. So blow, blow, blow. As I put my knee to the ground; and my heart in God's hands. I am blowing a wind storm at my daughter. And pray for God to make that flicker a torch.

Kidnapped

My children have been kidnapped by the enemy.

I raised my children with the knowledge of Jesus and his love. But over time Satan deceived my children to look away from God and to "do their own thing". This has changed them drastically. I am grieved. The cost has been great. My son is a drug addict and our daughter has yielded to some poor choices.

So, I am at war now. I put myself on alert as I pray constantly for them. Satan has kidnapped my children. But, I will be sending out troops of angels to call for them.

Our Choice

Recently I heard a sermon where the pastor pointed out the difference of Peter and Judas. Both were sinners, both had made commitments to Jesus; but their end product was very different.

The difference? Peter yielded to Jesus; Judas rebelled. That thought really struck me. Do we obey or are we in rebellion. How will we be remembered, and how do I want to live my life? We have a choice in it. Obedience; rebellion, our choice can change history.

Watching Signs

My husband just lost money on one of the stocks he purchased. He studied and tried his best; but he can not see the future. When he put his bid in he took all of the facts he had access about, but he did not know that a news event would cause a big down turn.

Jesus shows us signs too, but he can see the future. We never will be caught off guard. We can watch and be prepared for his returning. Matthew 24 will outline his events. Jesus wants all of us to be ready for his return. I am so ready to go home with Him.

Good Grapes, Charlie Brown!

Hi; Jazz here again. I was frustrated tonight, because I bought some very large, beautiful grapes this morning--but they taste awful! Maybe it's just my "taster" but I am disappointed in them. I am just glad I got them for the reduced price on my Albertsons card, but had I known what they tasted like, I wouldn't have been fooled by their beauty!

As humans, we can be very much like the grapes. Sometimes we don't look like much on the outside, so people can sometimes pass us by, and keep looking for something more "perfect." In so doing, they can be missing the "real treat" that resides within--our personality; our love; our character. Other times, we can look so good on the outside, that it's easy to forget there's a flesh-and-blood human under the nice-looking skin!

Jesus Christ bought and paid for us all with His own precious blood. None of us will attain absolute perfection this side of Heaven; no way! Yet my goal, as a Christian, is to be, well, WORTH the price He paid. Not that I can ever really be THAT good! He knows that, however, and loves me anyway. I would like to far more beautiful on the outside. Yet how much more I want the evidence of Christ within me! I want to be beautiful on the inside even more! I want to be a "good grape"!

Faith Failure

I walked a big circle today in my neighborhood. I took my little dog and together we made the loop. When it was ended I felt tired but my dog was ready for more action. Exercise is something that you get better and better at as you use it.

Recently I have discovered that same thing happens with faith. I am a "faith failure". I would be the one that asked Jesus if I could please touch his hands. Realizing this weak area in my spiritual growth; I have been praying that God would give me more faith. And, in his goodness; he has been "pushing the envelop" with me. He has pushed me. As I have reached out to exercise faith, it is growing. I am thankful.

Simple Gifts

In the past two days I have enjoyed my time alone and working around here. Yet, as these two days draw to a sweet end and become a lovely memory; I have one regret. Why didn't I sit and watch the snow fall down.

As big flakes drifted to the ground my old work ethic kicked in: "You should be working." So instead of enjoying this rare treat I pushed myself on to my endless chore list. I regret not taking the time to really enjoy God's handiwork. Sorting socks could have waited. Cleaning my laundry room did not need to be done as huge flakes danced around my home.

I hope as a Christian I continue always to grow; and one of the areas I need to grow in- is simplicity. I want to learn to love simple gifts for all the joy they are meant to be in my life.
God gave us so many wonderful gifts in this life; and I need to take the time to appreciate them.

House Bound

For two days I have been pretty house bound due to the weather. Normally this would drive me absolutely crazy. I go, and go, and go in my normal life. This time was different. In my enclosed house I found such peace. Looking out of my window my neighborhood looked like a true winter wonderland. Trees had snow nestled on each branch, and there just seemed to be peace in the air.

During these two days I have been able to truly rest; that is something I rarely do too. Isn't it wonderful that God wants us to just rest in him? I believe the peace that I found in these two days is the peace that heaven will have for us. And, I believe that is the peace that passes understand in God. How rarely I am able to trust God to the point of peace like these two days. But when I truly trust him, I do have this kind of peace. Thank you Jesus.

White Art

The weather outside today was white; we had so much snow. I rarely take the time to just rest. My families work ethic was one to always work, and even today I had a hard time stopping to watch the snow. But, I did sneek in a few moments and just enjoyed watching as big flakes drifted to the ground.

I bet God, just loves it when we just take time to rest and enjoy what he has given us. I am thankful today for natures white art work; and I am thankful for a God that loves it when we enjoy what he has made.

Made it to the Gym

After much prayer I finally made it to the gym. Once I was there it seemed I hardly even remembered what it looked like any more. It had been a very long time since my last visit.
I pushed myself through the many exercises and then I started to enjoy being there. I have forgotten that it takes work to accomplish any goal.

I find it is that way sometimes with the bible as well. Sometimes I need to keep working at staying consistent. Read, and study does not always appear to be "fun"; but like anything it is the discipline that I need. Often once I start on the study I find my self happy and learning. I just have to get started.

Love Others

Someone in my life right now really bugs me. That person seems to say things I don't want to hear and sometimes I just get frustrated. But; I know that God wants us to love all people. Sometimes when I am feeling like saying a thoughtless comment to this person I think of what is going on inside. Does the person hurt so much that his mouth reflects the pain? I don't really know.

My job is do love him not judge him. I am sure glad that God made it that simple. Turn judgement to Him; and love others.

And I Thought My Job Was Rough!

Hi everyone; Jazz here. On-the-job stress can be the source of many an ulcer or headache! I have had some tough jobs in the past; now I am on disability completely and I am grateful! I volunteer my time and do other things so I still feel useful, but am thankful I no longer have to deal with work stress!

I was watching Condoleeza Rice today on TV. She was being grilled with some high-pressure questions from a number of senators. While I disagree with Ms Rice politically, I absolutely respect her as a woman and for the job she has; I wouldn't want it! That got me thinking about possibly the most stressful job on the planet. No, not the President, although I wouldn't want his job, either. But that of the current United States soldier overseas!

All the things I take for granted, they'd consider a real treat! Like not assuming I might be dead by the next day. I don't have to deal with car bombs every waking hour! I don't have to deal with insurgents sneaking around every corner! And today, when I took a bath that wasn't quite hot enough, I got to thinking: some soldier somewhere would LOVE the privilege of clean water--hot or no! The soldier is the one who has my respect. I respect anyone with a tough job, but the soldier--especially a United States soldier--has my love and honor, way more than any political leader that put him in harm's way! GOD BLESS THE SOLDIER! Toughest job of all! A grateful Jazz.

Honest Christian

The speaker got up and presented that he had doubts about God's willingness to answer our prayers. I was surprised at such an honest confession. This man went on to explain that though he doubted; he still trusted that God was in control. He would yield his doubts to God, and mover forward in the trust he had for God.

Though for some people this may have seemed to be an odd thing to present in church, to me it was refreshing. It was honest, and showed faith. That is the kind of Christian I want to be; honest, and faithful. I am thankful for this humble honesty, and I hope too to be an honest Christian.

HIgher Goals

I am in a place now where I see many people seeking to change the direction of their lives. I too look at the direction of my life. Am I meeting the goals I have set, or am I simply plodding along with really out of focus views?

I can gain wealth, fame and other goals. When it is all done, the goal that calls at my heart like a loud alarm is: Am I living for Jesus? The greatest goal I have is service to God, service to man. These are my higher goals.

Selling Stock

My husband just made three hundred dollars selling stock. Should I be celebrating? Of course, but I am not celebrating because of the money. We have lots of bills and that money will be inhailed quickly. My celebration comes because my husband stepped out of his comfort zone. He is the symbol of caution. For a year he has studied how to sell stock...but never would make the move. What if he failed? So he spent hours, which turned to days, which turned to months, which turned to a year. A whole year of study and he finally made his first move. And it was a success. I am very proud of him. For him this is a major victory.

But, I think of myself. I wonder how many things I keep from doing from fear. Jesus constantly tells us. "Fear not". Why? Because he loves us. He knows what will happen, and just wants us to move.

As I watched my sweet husband labor and worry so much, I wanted to "save him" from the stress. I knew he could do it- but he didn't . So I had to watch him suffer so long. I imagine God feels the same way. He patiently waits as we stew and fret, when what we need to do is just trust and keep moving.

Recently my heat went out, and unfortunately we are in record colds here. I dreaded the day as I waited for the repair man. I was not without means of getting warm; I could walk the mall or drive in my car to keep warm. I did both, but I knew that eventually I would end up in my house with only two little portable heaters. I looked grimly as I imagined my self bundled in a blanket enclosed in a room with a little heater which just could not keep me warm.

I resolved to what I needed to do. I took out my two little mini heaters and plugged them in. I shut the doors to any rooms I did not use and went shopping to kills some time as my house I assumed would soon be freezing. No way could these little things keep me warm.

When I came home, to my surprise my house was warm and cozy. At one point I turned the heaters down. Once the repair man showed up, even he was amazed my little giants did such a great job.

I learned a lesson that day. Sometimes we can feel as if we are too little to do much. But with faith and constancy we, too, as Christians can warm all around us. We just need to do what God asks us to do- and trust for him to do the work.

Shall We Dance?

I love Christian music and when I hear a good Christian song, it takes me up to heaven. I feel so happy, peaceful and as if I am holding God's own hand.

Yesterday I was feeling down, frustrated and had a headache. I seem to also love worry, as I can worry easily. Something was taking me into a feeling of despair and anxiety. I just could not shake that down feeling. So I decided to put on some Christian music. I have collected my music over years, and often don't even know what is really on them: so I label them things like "joy", "quiet-good for prayer". I took one out that said, "Happy, joy". To my delight is was an old timer which was upbeat and just made me feel like dancing...So I did dance. I threw up my hands danced my heart out. And before I knew it depression and anxiety were long gone. Instead, I was praising God and feeling like I was dancing in front of Jesus.

Wow, just to think of it one day we all we be dancing for God. What a celebration when we all meet at in heaven. Shall we dance?

"...It is I. Do not be afraid."

Hi everyone; Jazz here. When I'm reading the Bible, I especially love it when Jesus tells someone, "It is I. Do not be afraid." One of those instances is in John 6:20, when Jesus came to his disciples, walking on the water during a storm. Another time was to John in Revelation 1:17, where John sees the Risen Lord in Heaven, in all His majesty! As he says, "When I saw him, I fell down at his feet like a dead man. He put his right hand on me and said, 'Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last." Jesus went on to assure John of His victory over death itself, yet in that verse, Jesus laid His hand on John's shoulder--an act of comfort. He tells him not to be afraid--it is really Him, the Jesus he had walked and talked many hours on earth with. Wow!
I've seen more than those two occasions where Jesus told someone not to be afraid, and they just thrill me with the awesome simplicity of them! For the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and earth, to tell us not to be afraid: well, we should listen! When the same One Who created a blade of grass also created countless galaxies, and planets so big we can't comprehend, tells us not to be afraid, I really should never be afraid. I am human. Anyone I know will vouch all too eagerly for that!
I may not feel brave or strong tonight. You may not feel brave or strong tonight, perhaps. But we're not strong in ourselves. Our confidence should be in the One Who made us, and has a purpose for each of our lives. No matter how much we've messed up in the past, there's one way to walk in the Christian life: FORWARD! Do not be afraid. God bless; Jazz.

Resolutions--The New And The Already Broken!

The Jazz is back! Today is January 10th, almost the middle of the month already, and time to see how many of my New Year's resolutions I've already broken! It doesn't take me long, most years, and sure hasn't this year! Yep, one of my biggies was to start eating healthy January 2nd--well, um...but I am trying. I'm learning to eat a whole new vegetable: the carrot! I'm discovering it's surprisingly good with a veggie dip, although still not near as tasty as my old friend, the french fry! But we're getting to be pals now!
Another resolution I had, however, was to do more writing, and God seems to be opening the door for that one in some exciting new ways. I am looking forward to seeing what He will do with me! In the parable of the talents, Jesus was talking about people who waste what they're given, and simply bury their talents, and bless no one with them, including themselves. Sure, it seems safe to bury our talents. Scary to put ourselves out there and risk failure or rejection! But God didn't give any of us our abilities simply to waste, and I'm praying this new year brings me more opportunity to use my gifts--and the boldness to try!
A third resolution I made was to read the Bible more. Still working on that one; my Bible still has too much dust on it but I'll get there yet! On most things in my home, I consider dust to be a "protective coating" and nothing can destroy almost anything in my house! They're coated to kingdom come! But the Bible is another story, altogether. That's the one I need to dive into, as if it were a plate of fries!
I'm sure glad God keeps His "resolutions" better than I do, and I pray He will help me this year to start keeping the ones I've made--much better than I have in the past! God bless you this coming year and may you use your talents to the fullest! Jazz.

What I Wanted

I wanted something different from life. I envisioned doing "great things" for God. It was not for my glory, but simply because I wanted to make a big impact on the world in a positive way. I wanted my faith to move mountains. But, often I feel like my life is not worth a lot. So what that I am can sit at a computer and type. So what I raised two kids; one with a disability? That is just not that impressive to me. I get angry and frustrated. Where is the "great thing" I was going to do for God. I don't feel he has used me in a mighty way- even though I gave him permission and desired it. I feel like I let down God.

But then I need to wait. My life is not over, and what happens to me is not my business- it's God's business. If he wants me cleaning streets. Then I will clean streets. If he wants me leading world events, he can work that out too. My job is to yield to the road he has for me; do the best I can on that road and keep moving. It's his job to do miracles. Its my job to be willing and anxious to do what he wants. Then move forward in faith.

In The Presence of God

Yesterday my good friend had some really exciting news. She danced for joy and was so happy that she wanted everyone to know just what had happened in her life. Wouldn't it be great if we felt that kind of joy when we are in the the presence of God?

Off to the Gym

I am off to the gym today- happy about it? Not at all. But, the fact is I need it. I have gotten lazy and stopped going, and that is foolish. Exercise keeps my health scores good, and makes me feel better. As the holiday's came, my exercise stopped. I don't want to go to the gym. It looks so uninviting. I think of a 100 reasons tomorrow would be a better day- but tomorrow comes and then I still feel the next tomorrow would be better. I need to focus on my goal. Will it take sacrifice to make my goals? Yes, but I will be happy and a better person.

Running after Jesus often is a total joy. But other times taking the time to study, pray and live unselfishly is a commitment. What do I want? Do I want to be asleep in my relationship? Or do I want a fit relationship. I need to stay focused and "exercise" in my choices. Daily I must commit again to the work it takes in any relationship. I must take time, "work out" and expect results.

I want a healthy relationship with God. So today I will commit to spending time with him.

Still in Control

Today I have committed my home to an open house for prayer. I have invited friends and church members to drop by to pray. This should be a joyous day. But, instead I am tired and depressed, nervous and wondering how the day will go. Though my mood is down- I praise God. Why? Because he is still in control. It does not matter how I feel right now. I have invited him and he will be here. Praise God.

I Hung My Head

I went to church and as I listened, I hung my head. I felt as if God was calling me; but I also wondered what he was trying to say. I hate that- wanting to know God's will but not really knowing what he is trying to say. But, I have learned that when I am in that position; and wait is often the time I find the most answers.

I don't know why God makes it so hard to understand his will at times; perhaps it is so we will wait.

He tells us to be as children. They do not ponder what their parents want. They trust the parents 100% and the parents make it clear to them. Me, I have to analyze everything to death. I bet God wishes I would be more child like and just trust him.

Feel Better

I feel so much better in my life now. I see changes happening because I am finally changing those things which I have known for years. Often I wonder why I waited so long. Why does a person not do what is good for them?

It really is a mystery. God has a Manuel for us, but we often do not read it. When we read and apply what God teaches us, we do feel better. I hope I learn this lesson sooner than this last time.

A God Thing

My husband and I have purchased a piece of property. It was to be a good investment. We have invested for 25 years, and most of what we invest in- pans out well. But the economy has dropped like a lead ball here, and I wonder what God would have me to do.

Not knowing God's will is not easy. But, a wonderful spiritual lesson has taken place. I am trusting. I don't know what he would have me to do, but I do know he is in control. So I patiently wait on God; praying and seeking his will. I move forward. I know God is in control.

I have peace, and that is a God thing.

Obedient to God!

There is one area of my life I have remained in rebellion, it is my eating. For years I have known that God wants me to get a handle on how I live my life, concerning exercise and diet. I have known what he wants, but not been willing to bend my knee to his will.
So I prayed, "God, work with the rebellion in my heart." My stubbornness kept me from being obedient for years. Finally last year I tried to "compromise" with God. I would change, but not totally give up what I knew I should.

I had some results, but still in that mode of doing it myself. Finally this year, I have started living as God asked me to do years ago. The results? I feel great, my thinking is clearer and I have more energy. So why did I wait? Because sin lies. It tells us we are much happier sinning. Maybe we feel good at the time, but later pay the price.

Oh, to be more obedient to God!

Lashed Out

Recently I was in a place when a person lashed out at another person, leaving the attacked stunned and embarrassed. I imagine the person A the attacker was feeling hurt by person B the attacked. I squirmed and wanted to leave. I felt for the Mr. B and wanted to let Mrs. A know she really had no place speaking as she did. But, it would have to be with a red face I could say anything- because many times I have been the one which is the attacking. Maybe I don't feel well, get angry in traffic or some other thing.

I looked on compassion at both the attacker and the victim. The attacker had made herself look bad ( and too many times I can relate to that position), the attacked needed to be defended.

I don't look harshly at either of those people, because they both are good people having bad days. But it reminded me of myself. How often have I forgotten my manors and embarrassed God? I just wonder.

Bring on the New Year

Clutter, clutter, clutter. If you were to see my living room you might fall over the boxes, and many items left from Christmas. As I remove trees, toys and other memories I think once again of the memory Christmas is all about; Jesus. Isn't he really what all this holiday season is about. Today is the first day of the new year. For me, my goal is a year of focus, growth and spiritual maturity. Bring on the new year!

What's my Vision

What is your new resolution? Do you make lists and lists of changes you are going to make? What steps have you prepared to make those steps. Last year I made new resolutions. Did I make my goals? Not completely; but better than if I had not set down my goals.

I am convinced that successful people vs. the non- successful people moves on one basis. They have a clear vision of what they want and where they are going. I want my vision to be on what Christ wants in me. Perhaps I need to spend time just focusing on him.

My vision, let it be Jesus.

Out of the Circle.

Recently I played a game that was supposed to mimic real life. If you made the right choices you were able to get out of a circle that never ended. If you made the wrong choices you just kept on traveling in the endless circle.

It reminded me of my spiritual life. Where am I going? Do I go into circles which end up no where? This year I want out of my circle of ho/ hum and into my world of spiritual joy.