Journal for the Journey

He Likes Spending Time With Us

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 15:30:00 +0000

I visited my friend, and her granddaughter was there. We danced together. When I picked her up I would throw her in the air and then dip her low to the ground. At first her little eyes would get big with fear. But once she realized I would not drop her and would always be there if I threw her in the sky or if I dipped her low: she squealed with joy and giggled, and laughed.

What interested me was that when I would hold her between songs she got quiet and studied my face intensely. She wanted to know my face. All the rest of the day she would follow me with her arms open for me to pick up. And I believe that is the relationship God wants for us as well. He wants us to enjoy him in the up and down times, to intensely study him and then delight to be in his presence. God likes spending time with us.

Are You Ready?

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:59:00 +0000

Well, my camera is not here, or maybe...maybe I would show you my house: on the other hand maybe not. Boy, is it a mess. The reason? Well, I am a Christmas nut. I have lots of trees and lots of decorations.

This year I have been asked to have a party for the true needed. I will have 20 guests and I am working like crazy to make this a wonderful party for them. I have gifts wrapped, cookies decorations etc. But my house has paid a big price. Right now I am in the wrapping gifts, baking cookies stage. And it is pretty bad here......WOW!

I am thinking it must be that way for Jesus. He says he is making a home for us in heaven. I can imagine that he is trying so hard to make it what we would want. That is exciting, isn't it? It will be better than anything we can imagine, and I am ready for my new home. How about you?

Trust the Master Weaver

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:58:00 +0000

I was feeling really anxious today. Miserable. I tried praying, counting my blessings and any thing else I thought might help. Nothing did much to change my mood. I did get a bit better but certainly can not brag about great things changing. Do I regret the day- not really, yes I was miserable, and still I am anxious and depressed. But it takes rain to grow flowers, and the air is so fresh when it is done.

I don't like feeling miserable. But I am learning that when it seems bad, good often results. I appreciate things so much more. I learn compassion for other suffers. I don't like the bad days, but they too have their work.

Here is a poem I love, it used to hang in my home growing up.

Trust the Master Weaver

Author: Unknown

When gray threads mar life's pattern
And seem so out of line-
Trust the Master Weaver
Who planned the whole design.
For in life's choicest patterns
Some dark threads must appear
To make the rose threads fairer,
The gold more bright and clear.

The pattern may seem intricate
And hard to understand
But trust the Master Weaver
And His steady, guiding hand.

Just Listening

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:52:00 +0000

I had a very bad day today. My illness was kicking me, and then my son told me he is moving away. During this bad day I was really praying. I just seemed at the end of my rope. "God help me!" My anxiety did not go away. And things did not get all warm and fuzzy, but what did happen was out of the blue my friend called to check on me and then my neighbor came over to see if I was OK. Neither of them has done that before.

What happened? I don't know, but it has impressed me that God did send someone. My day is finally about over, and I am glad. But I also am thinking that sometimes God uses others to do the work he wants. I need to think about that, pray and meditate on what God is calling from me. If I listen, perhaps, God may use me to make the call or to visit.....something to think about for sure. And, it is sobering to think that my hearing of God must be in tune with his mission.

Just Keep Me Seeking

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 04:16:00 +0000

I was listening to someone once, that told how she bailed out of different religions when things were confusing to her. I respect this person very much but I have been thinking about that. I wondered when she would be bailing out in her religion now? I do understand that there are times when things just don't make sense to us. That I believe is the time to really pray and keep seeking. Dig deep, but don't give up.

I am learning more, and more there are the times of storm before the calm.

Recently I was having difficulty as I struggled with where God was. I did not feel him, and my prayers seemed to bounce off of the ceiling back to me. I kept praying and still felt nothing. This lasted several weeks. Yet, I just kept praying. In faith, I stood in prayer. I never did have a lighting bolt experience with God. Instead he came to me in a still small voice. His answer: rest.

That seemed to me a ridiculous request. Rest! So simplistic, yet as I obeyed; I became quiet and now all sorts of things are becoming clear to me that never have been before.

I am not in criticism of the person I mentioned. We all stop praying and seeking at times. But as I mature as a Christain, I realize more than ever that those times we don't understand push us to the deepest growth. Because if we keep seeking, God does answer. It is not always the answer that we expect, but it the answer that shows us a deeper God.

I have been told that to establish a tree you don't water too often. The reason is that this forces the tree to struggle deep. This deep root system then waters the tree for life; and it establish strength for the tree in storm.

I want that kind of system. I don't like the silent treatment from God, and I don't like conflict: but those things push my limits and establish me in God. So, for today, keep me seeking and trusting in God.

Caring for the Small Things

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:37:00 +0000

Do you think God cares about little things? I am sure that I must be a genetic kin to Thomas. I would have wanted tnot only to see the scars in God's hand, but I would have wanted a DNA sample. I am not a faith based person like some. It surely is one of my weaker gifts. Yet, sometimes it is the small things that touch me that God does...and here is an example.

I have mental illness. One of those crazy things that happens to me is that I get stuck in cycles of on going worry. I just recircle thoughts over and over, and two big things have been worries for me in the past months. The first is that I would not get my deck painted, the second is that my garage would not get cleaned.

My life is a busy one and the busier it got, the more frantic I became about getting these chores done: yet, it just seemed that I could not get the two finished without some other thing bumping them down the priority list. And that brought my stress up the ladder.

But yesterday, it happened. We had unusually warm weather here, and I was able to cross the last thing on my list off. I was able to satisfy my last wish: clean the garage.

It sounds simple, but I just praised God all day when I realized he had helped me finish my list so I can rest through the winter.

It is a God that works with a "crazy woman" to finish her to do list, that makes me have comfort with him. For he does care about our small items.

Why?

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:27:00 +0000

Why do bad things happen in this world? Why do children get sick? Why do good people suffer what appears needless pain? Why does the person that seems to be good parent material, desperately wanting a child-not have one; yet, the person that has no parent skill seem to have the ability to produce child after child.

I have wondered these questions too. I don't always understand why "good people" have "bad luck". And as I ponder these things, I realize that in the bible good things did not always happen to good people. Jesus hung on the cross? Why? What did he do to deserve that? Nothing.

Does that mean God, the father, is cruel? No. It means he has a wider spectrum than we do. Often I see that God sees eternity. Our time period is simply a dot in a whole huge picture. God never operates on the worlds time table. He never operates in a cruel manor: but he does work towards the best for all people. We, as Christians, need to remember that our life does not end here. Our reward is in eternity. Our work begins here, but does not end here. As does our reward.

Daily God manages a universe. We do not. Sometimes it does take faith to believe. It is a daily relationship with a loving God that gives us the faith to know: God has not forgotten us. That is where faith is developed.

Back to Sleep

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:20:00 +0000

Well, I was up at 1:50 A.M. today...not too happy about it either. The reason is that my computer crashed, and I had concerns my identity had been stolen. Still am a bit concerned but I will be checking in with the banks later. Yet, today, on my husbands lap top I finally was able to get into my bank accounts. None of them has been touched. I have had to answer security questions of all my banks: but those questions kept others out of my accounts.

I am thinking that sometimes we are vulnerable. It is part of life. But, I find comfort knowing God is never taken in surprise. Nothing happens he does not know about. So...now at 4:23 A. M. I think I will go back asleep.

It is good to know I am in good hands/ God's hands.

Jesus Was Respectful

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 05:04:00 +0000

Someone sent me an email telling me all her reasons for voting for her candidate. She quoted scriptures, which I felt out of context, and I just did not understand why she wrote.

The woman is a lovely person, so this seems so out of character for her. I felt pushed, and as if she was saying that if I did not vote as she had I was less of a Christian. Was I? No. God gives us the choice to make decisions by our values and beliefs. My friend over stepped my boundaries.

So...Well, I chose to believe my friend simply did not see how the letter came across. But I have been thinking about her email. We need, as Christians, to be especially careful how we use scripture and also to treat each person with dignity and respect. Jesus never forced, needlessly embarrassed. Neither should we.

I Chose to Be Thankful

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 05:11:00 +0000

I was sick today. Miserably sick. I went to the doctor's and was given medicine that took a long time to work; but that experience was a good one. It helped me remember to be compassionate when others are sick. It helped me appreciate the days I feel fine, and it kept me thankful for a husband that waited an hour and half in the waiting room.

Life has many choices. Today I chose to be thankful. Blessings to the readers!

Pray for Your Country

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:29:00 +0000

I have been thinking. What would happen if all the readers of this blog committed to pray daily for our country until the next election? The party is not important; faithfulness is. We could pray for leaders, we could pray for policies. We could pray for ourselves to appreciate and support our land.

What if.........

Four years, in prayer, with a group of committed people. Will you join me, pray and love your country? God Bless America! and all other nations...because our country is our home and we are blessed.

Too Tight

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:19:00 +0000

My friend and I were laughing at each other. Why? Well, like so many people our finances are really starting to be stretched TIGHT. We laughed as we heard the other one describe the stress and frustration to stay paying the bills when times are so tight. We just enjoyed being together sharing the misery I guess!

That experience was a good one. Why? Because it made me realize once again that joy comes often from attitude. God tells us to rejoice daily and that call helped me do that. I noticed so many happy things in this day. Sure, budget is so tight; but I have shelter, food and friends. I sit behind this screen sharing my life. I have hope. Not one day goes without God knowing about it. And today I was able to find so many funny happy things around me.

Today I rest in Jesus.

A Storm Coming...

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:00 +0000

Our stocks tumbled again yesterday, and now I am hearing more and more people that are losing their jobs. Am I afraid; um, no. Will I be afraid? Maybe, but more and more I am becoming peaceful and steady. I have seen God take care of us so many times. We do have troubles, but then I see God make those troubles bring out good.

Now is a time when people are suffering. My heart is being pulled in many ways as I watch our current economic situation. I am concerned, and I am starting to prepare for troubles. Slowly we are putting money aside, and I am wondering if my tenants are going to be able to keep rents coming.

I watch as people, good people struggle. Yet, I am in prayer. We are heading for a storm. Pull in and press together. God wants us wise, prepared but most of all running to him. So if a storm comes, may we be ready to depend on God.

Today, I am trusting.

I Am Thankful

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:22:00 +0000

Imagine how difficult managing the world must be for God. I am not happy with the elections, I am a Republican. But, my Democratic friends are so happy. This is where we can meet. We turn our lives over to God and to his management. I can be glad anyway, as I know God is never taken by surprise. And that is comfort.
Today, I will rejoice in the fact God is still in control. And I am thankful.

It's Over

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:19:00 +0000

Its almost over......the elections. I am so tired of it all. Today we will know if we have a new president. I am so thankful that we do not have to keep at it.

Makes me think of heaven. One day, we as believers can say, "Its' over!" and walk into heaven. Won't that be a time of joy!

Practice Here/ Enjoy True Freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 06:59:00 +0000

Have you ever seen anything like this.... the fighting over candidates. I know there is always fighting but this year; I am simply shocked. I don't understand it either. Where is freedom of speech and choice now?

I am concerned when Christians can't love their fellow worshipper as Jesus does. And it is interesting to me, I can't think of one reference to politics Jesus ever started. Why is that? I think it is because he never was caught up in the world. He served others but ultimately knew his home was else where.

Does that mean, we stand and do nothing? I don't think that either. The bible tells us to occupy until he returns. I believe that means we should be outstanding citizens, but when it is over Democrats and Republicans will be in heaven together. Better practice love here, and enjoy true freedom there.

What's On Your Mind?

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 06:48:00 +0000

It has occurred to me that women need a place to just sit, chat and share. Sometimes we spend so much time running we get little time for ourselves. I am opening this spot to any woman that just wants to chat.

I spent time with friends lately. Don't they look happy? Time with girlfriends, is time well spent.

This is time to affirm who we are, our values and our hearts. These women love God, and my time with them is good.

Come share with me. What's on your mind?

Not Honored

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 02:45:00 +0000

I saw a movie today. It was a true story, and well written. But the movie included scenes that were for shock value, degrading humans senses. And the language was what would clearly have been deleted 10 years ago.

And what am I doing there....

Well, that is a valid question. I justified going by the fact it was "true". But doesn't the bible tell us to focus on pure, holy thinking- and where was that when I viewed a man hanging and thrashing? Did that make me a deeper, more sensitive Christian, or did I train my mind to blot out and justify wickedness, pain and suffering.

I love movies, but I don't think God was not honored by my choice. For it did not follow his guidelines;

Finally bretheren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever tings are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. PHL 4:8

Trick or Treat

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 02:34:00 +0000

Happy Halloween, or Unhappy Halloween... as you may chose. I know that many Christians appose Halloween as they say the roots are witch craft and pagan. I respect those beliefs. I personally have not understood the position. But I don't chose to offend anyone.

I think Christians have a time to offend. If we are called to slander or lie: we need to offend as we stand for the right thing. But I think often Christians lose the forest for the trees. We become so absorbed with small things we miss the big.

My point is; we need to be tactful, kind and respectful. While, at the same time we need to focus on what really matters: loving like Jesus, knowing him personally and treating others with dignity and respect.

So if you are against Halloween. I respect your setting standards. If you celebrate Halloween, I am wish you a happy time. God bless you. Today's trick is being caught up in small things and missing the big things. The treat is having a God that loves all people and sharing his love. Trick or Treat?

God Works for Us

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:49:00 +0000

Sometimes I think how God works is strange, sometimes I don't get it but sometimes I think it is great.

Today I was praying. I have not been doing very well, emotionally. I have bipolar illness. The stress of my granddaughter being in foster care, the elections, and the economy have worn me down. So, this stress has caused me to run in circles. I am not getting much done. And I am shopping one day, returning everything the next day. I took myself into prayer about it. I felt no peace so I kept praying. Then it was as if God said, "You need rest."

I thought that crazy. I still have many things to do. To take rest would keep me from my projects. But as I kept thinking of what I believe God was telling me I realized God was right. I am so emotionally tired my illness is being pushed. God could see what I could not. So though I have lots to do- today I will take time to rest. I will trust God to take care of the other details.

I am thankful to have a God that cares enough to give me permission to care for myself. That is a God of love.

Simple Happy Life

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 03:31:00 +0000

It has been such a long time since I have had a "normal" day. Sometimes just having a basic day of chores is refreshing. It is a time to settle and enjoy life. Today was one of those days and I appreciated it.

I have a song that has a line about having coffee with God. Now isn't that the kind of friendship God really loves with us- just sitting together. So gather your coffee and enjoy some pictures of "the good life", simple happy moments. God bless you today.

Doing the Right Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:54:00 +0000

I received a hateful email from a former friend. She accused me of things I never did. All evening I spent fuming about her email. What a waste of time. We don't need to take responsibility where it is not. I don't need to accept that things she accused me of, but I do need to do the right thing. I will be sending her a card with an apology that she is hurting. I will not be sending her an apology and accepting responsibility for things I never did.

Sometimes life can hurt us, we can rebel: refuse the joys life brings us and dwell on our problems. It hardens the heart.

That is what has happened to my friend. She has harbored anger, bitterness in life. Instead of sunshine, she sees rain. She is a very talented woman but she chooses to hold on to supposed injustices to her. It has made her angry and bitter.

Vengeance is mine, God says. He can right all injustices. So, today I will put my friend in his hands. Pray for her, and love her- as is. I chose to live by a standard that makes me a whole and better person. Bitterness, retaliation and held up anger, is not welcome here.

Give and Take Away

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:52:00 +0000

I am missing my granddaughter today. The Lord gives, and takes away. Each place is special: and we must appreciate what is in the day we are on.

Returning Home

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:26:00 +0000

Today my granddaughter returns to her mother. I am sad. I know it is the best for her, and I long to have her happy but I will miss her.

God be with her and her family.

Let It Rain

noreply@blogger.com (Linda) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 05:30:00 +0000

I have been thinking a lot about the elections. I have been praying a lot also. I feel sober and wonder what will happen to our culture and the world I will be leaving my children. As I was thinking; I realized that God does not come when things are going well but in the storm.
Is it because he is indifferent to us? No. I don't think so. I believe it is when the storms come we finally realize our need for him and ask him to come in our life. God is not a bully. He does not come where he is not wanted.

I think our country is in a mess. I see us as immoral, self centered and spun out of control. Perhaps storms will come regardless of candidates: but if troubles need to come for us to call on God, then let it rain. God will still be in control and he promises never to leave or forsake us: so he will be with us through it all.