“E” – Blogging A to Z

April 6th, 2015 dsisler

 

I feel like we are flying through the alphabet during this Blogging from A to Z challenge in April. During this first full week of April, we begin with the letter “e.”

 

eIn the article I’m using as my alphabet guide (“More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try” in a recent Good Housekeeping magazine), Ms. Marquez explains that when we spend our money on experiences rather than stuff, we are able to experience happiness.

 

More and more I hear of families giving “experience” gifts rather than an object. Zoo passes, knitting lessons, ski lift passes, or even the promise of a picnic all direct our attention to being with the person rather than occupying the person’s attention with a gizmo or gadget. Smart.

 

In this article, Ms. Marquez makes this statement. “The dry cleaner may destroy your blouse, but it can’t touch your memories.”[i]

 

I recall someone else making a statement something like this. That someone is Jesus.

 

In His longest message in Scripture, Jesus found Himself in the midst of a crowd. This was a perfect opportunity to teach, so Jesus went up on the mountainside and they all gathered around Him. In this moment, Jesus began to teach.

 

In these three chapters in Matthew, Jesus shared God’s plan for our lives as it relates to adultery and divorce. Murder and oaths. Justice and fasting. Judging and wisdom.

 

Jesus also explained how we are to live our lives. We are to be different than the world. We should not worry. We must share our possessions with others. We are to love one another. We are to pray and ask God for what we need. And we are to be fruit producers.

 

In the middle of all this teaching, Jesus shares this idea about treasure.

 

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21 – NIV)

 

Jesus said it first. Things will be destroyed. But the experience of being with Jesus cannot be destroyed or taken from you.

 

The things of this world have a way of taking our minds and focus off of what really matters. When we allow our possessions to control us, we cannot expect to enjoy the experiences all around us. Physical or spiritual.

 

Remember. Jesus came so that we might have abundant life. Abundant life is not found in things. It is found in the spiritual riches we have stored up in heaven.

 

What do you need to experience today? Are you overlooking the personal relationships you’ve been blessed by? Is there something that has gained control of your life?

 

Maybe you need to experience Jesus today. He’s patiently waiting for you to move your attention from earthly things to heaven. What are you waiting for?

 

Experiences can be exciting, thought-provoking and life-changing. Let’s take our lives back and experience abundant living. What a great way to get an attitude adjustment!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try Today,” Jennifer Rainey Marquez, Good Housekeeping, Vol. 260, No. 4, page 114.

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He Lives!

April 5th, 2015 dsisler

 

Easter morning has once again rolled around on our calendar. What a great day to be part of the Kingdom of God. What a celebration will be heard around the world today. I pray that you are able to take part of a celebration service this morning.

 

If you haven’t read the biblical Easter account in a while, why not click here to read through the four Gospel accounts of this what happened on this morning so long ago. In these words you will find great hope for today.

 

If you live in the Colorado area, I would ask you to join me at Rocky Mountain Christian Church this morning as we begin a new series on hope. During Hope Rising, we will explore how hope can exist in the midst of trials and suffering. If you are in need of a good dose of hope, you will not want to miss this one.

 

The repeated blog post I share with you today is the very first Easter blog post I wrote several years ago. I pray that you will be uplifted by these words. Happy Resurrection Day! Christ is Risen! He is risen indeed!

 

Oh Glorious Day!

 

It’s Sunday morning. Not just any Sunday, but Resurrection Sunday. Easter Sunday.

 

Holy Land Experience 004mAs a child I recall going to the cemetery on Easter morning for sunrise service. Later as an adult, Easter sunrise service was a highlight of the year. It was very meaningful and that single hour seemed more special than any other hour of service.

 

There are sunrise services each year at different locations here in Colorado that promise to be spectacular. Red Rocks Amphitheater hosts a service each year, as does Royal Gorge Bridge. These are always well attended.

 

Many mountain communities have their own services scheduled, as well as local churches. If you are looking for a sunrise service, here in Colorado or in your local community, I’m sure you can find one.

 

Maybe a cemetery is not the popular choice these days for sunrise service, but Easter Sunrise services certainly are.

 

Why do you suppose that is? For Christians, I know. We see this morning as victory over death. As a reminder that Jesus rose from the dead on this day so long ago. And what a glorious day it is!

 

But what about unbelievers, what attracts them to these services each year? Perhaps something is missing from their life. Perhaps they are seeking peace, hope, anything.

 

The good news? Jesus can provide peace, hope, or anything anyone is seeking.

 

He is the Way, the Truth, the Life. He is the All, the Bright and Morning Star, the Guardian of our souls. He is the Prince of Peace, the Word, the Everlasting Light.

 

He is the Hope of Glory, the Fountain, the Living Stone. He is the Mediator, the Physician, the Advocate. He is the Bread, the Spiritual Rock, the Lamb of God.

 

He is the Good Shepherd, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Counselor. He is the Door, the Alpha and Omega, the Chief Cornerstone. He is the Gift from God, the Messiah, the Redeemer.

 

He is the Author and Finisher of our faith.

 

On this Easter morning, whatever it is you’re seeking, you will find in Jesus Christ. If you have any doubt, just follow the advice of the angel when speaking to the women in Matthew 28:6. “Come and see…”

 

Come and see what Jesus can be for you. Come and see what Jesus can do for you. From personal experience, I know you will never be the same.

 

For your personal reading, the Gospel accounts of the resurrection of Jesus Christ may be found in Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; and John 20:1-9.

 

When the secular influence is stripped away from Easter morning, all that remains is Jesus and His resurrection. Jesus fulfilling all of my needs. Jesus accepting me for who I am. Jesus my Bright and Morning Star.

 

As for me, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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“D” – Blogging A to Z

April 4th, 2015 dsisler

 

As part of an April challenge, I am working through the alphabet and sharing my thoughts about that letter. I’ve been using the article “More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try Today” by Jennifer Rainey Marquez in Good Housekeeping as my guide.

 

dFor the letter “d,” Ms. Marquez suggests that we dance. University of Derby researchers found salsa lessons improved the moods of depressed patients. Another team in Australia found the same results and the added bonus of less insomnia by patients who learned how to tango. It makes sense. Movement releases endorphins. And really, who doesn’t like music?

 

I don’t know if she didn’t like music, but she certainly didn’t like seeing her husband dance before the Lord. Michal, King Saul’s daughter who was given to King David as a bride, watched with hatred as King David brought the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem.

 

King David had been victorious against the Jebusites and the Philistines. He had regained the city of Jerusalem for Israel and set up his residence in the City of David. A large palace was built for David and he knew that God had established him as king over Israel.

 

It only made sense to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and to make this city the place to worship God. So the Ark was brought to Jerusalem. What a processional it was. Scripture tells us that the “entire house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of trumpets.” (2 Samuel 6:15 – NIV) King David led the group wearing a linen ephod and he danced before the Lord with all his might.

 

This parade of musicians, dancers and singers flooded into Jerusalem. It was at this moment that Michal saw King David. She was enraged.

 

Michal accused King David of showing himself to everyone and of not being very dignified. But King David was quick with an answer.

 

“It was before the Lord, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord’s people Israel—I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.” (2 Samuel 6:21-22 – NIV)

 

The lesson I learn from this encounter is that whatever you do, do it with all your might. Whether it is dancing, or singing, or creating, or selling, or administrating, or speaking, be passionate about it.

 

I also believe when we do anything for the Lord, there should never be a reason for not doing so with all our might. King David was passionate in his praise to God. We should be the same. Nothing should hold us back from praising God in any manner. Just remember all that He has done for you. That alone should be reason enough to dance before the Lord with all your might.

 

I know. I know. We just don’t do that.

 

You’re right. We don’t. But why not?

 

Perhaps we are afraid of being ridiculed by the “Michal’s” of our world. Perhaps we don’t know how to praise God. Perhaps we haven’t given ourselves completely to God. Perhaps.

 

Tomorrow morning we will join together with fellow believers to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His resurrection is our reason for life as we know it. Jesus rose from the dead so that we might know peace beyond all understanding. Jesus rose from the dead so that we might live abundant lives. Jesus rose from the dead so that we could receive amazing grace. Jesus rose from the dead so that we could spend eternity with Him. Jesus rose from the dead to wipe away every sin. Jesus rose from the dead for you.

 

Of all Sunday mornings of the year, tomorrow morning, Resurrection Sunday should be the one we dance before the Lord without any hesitation. Are you with me? Are you willing to praise the Lord with all your might?

 

I know. I know.

 

At least let’s worship Jesus tomorrow morning with a renewed passion. I suspect a side benefit will be the lifting of your spirit. I can’t wait to be in the Lord’s house tomorrow morning and praise His Name among His people. I pray you are excited to do the same.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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“C” – Blogging A to Z

April 3rd, 2015 dsisler

 

On our A to Z journey, I am allowing the article written by Jennifer Rainey Marquez titled “More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try” in a recent Good Housekeeping magazine to be our guide. The idea she offers for the letter “c” is to change your commute.

 

CAccording to this article, if your commute to and from work causes stress, think about changing the mode of transportation, changing your route or listening to an uplifting audio book. These changes have made a difference in attitude for many. Maybe it will help you as well.

 

I can’t even imagine what the children of Israel experienced during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. Seeing the same images and sites over and over again must have been discouraging. This was not a large wilderness area. In fact, Deuteronomy 1:2 (NIV) says, “it takes eleven days to go from Horeb to Kadesh Barnea by the Mount Seir road.”

 

The Hebrew nation was discouraged. They grumbled. They complained. They insisted. They rose up against Moses. They created an idol to worship. They acted horribly.

 

But in each instance, God showed forgiveness to this group of people who just couldn’t seem to be satisfied. Now it didn’t mean that He would allow the attitude busters to go unpunished. By the time their wandering ended, an entire generation of Israelites had died in the wilderness.

 

I believe we can find ourselves in the same spiritual wilderness. Spiritual growth and faith stretching are key elements to warding off spiritual melancholy.

 

Are you experiencing spiritual wandering? If so, ask yourself these questions.

 

  • When is the last time to you spent more than 5 minutes reading God’s Word?
  • When is the last time you spent more than 5 minutes in prayer?
  • Are you gathering together with other believers in Christ at least once a week?
  • Have you allowed God to stretch your faith recently?

 

Now these aren’t all the questions you should ask yourself, but they are a good place to start. Do you recall James’ words? “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” (James 4:8 – NIV) Maybe you need to move closer to God. It is the first step to ridding your life of spiritual depression.

 

Of course, there is the possibility that you have been on this spiritual journey for a long time and maybe you just need a change in scenery. Maybe you need to stir up your prayer life. Maybe you need to find another way to study God’s Word. Whatever it is, seek out unique, creative and interesting ways to be with God. Maybe you’ll find this little tweak is just what is needed for your spiritual attitude.

 

As God led the children of Israel through the wilderness He said this to them at one point. “You have made your way around this hill country long enough; now turn north.” (Deuteronomy 2:3 – NIV) Maybe that’s what God is saying to you today. “You’ve lived your life in this manner long enough. Now try it My way.” “You’ve gone back to that particular sin long enough. It’s time to give it up.” “You’ve been on this spiritual plateau long enough. Come closer.”

 

Whatever God is saying to you today, listen. And then, to quote James again, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22 – NIV)

 

I’ll see you on the journey.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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“B” – Blogging A to Z

April 2nd, 2015 dsisler

 

In the article “More Bliss, Less Stress: A to Z Happiness Boosters to Try Today” by Jennifer Rainey Marquez in Good Housekeeping, her word for the letter b is bake. She states that baking is emotionally therapeutic.

 

bOkay, I struggle with the whole baking thing in this high altitude, high desert climate. I just can’t seem to get the hang of it. So instead of emotionally therapeutic for me, it frustrates me and I have given up. I’m a failure at baking here in Colorado. This doesn’t quite fit into the whole “happiness booster” idea does it?

 

What I can relate to is the poor woman in 1 Kings 17 who had become a wonderful baker. She had lived her life baking delicious bread for her husband and her young son. One day her husband died, leaving behind a widow and orphan…and a small jug of oil and a handful of flour.

 

On the morning of her encounter with the prophet Elijah, she recalls the schedule of her day to him. “I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in the jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die.” (1 Kings 17:12 – NIV)

 

I can’t even imagine how discouraged this woman was. She had done her best. She had given her all. And the small amount of nourishment she had was now asked to be given to another. But that is exactly what Elijah requested.

 

Take a look at his words. “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son.” (1 Kings 17:13 – NIV) In the midst of our discouragement, fear takes over. We sometimes can’t even know where to begin. But I believe when we drive fear out, we are able to make a good start at dispelling discouragement and improving our attitude.

 

This was a huge ask for this widow. To put someone else above the only person she loved more than herself. But that was exactly what God asked of her. And in her obedience, God supplied her needs with a never-ending supply of oil and flour. She, her son and Elijah would be nourished until the rains returned and the land was bountiful again.

 

There was no need for her to worry. There was no need for her to be fearful. All she needed to do was trust God.

 

I know it can be difficult for us to put this much trust in God. We worry. We are afraid. But when we do, God will lavish His bountiful graciousness upon us. So take this step toward your attitude adjustment today. Trust God. Trust God with what you can today. Tomorrow you may be able to give Him a little more and the next day, even more. Believe what He says. Trust what He is able to do. Watch how He is able to transform your attitude from fear and worry to freedom.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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    "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19


    I am a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. I lived in the beautiful state of Colorado for 20 years where I found great inspiration for my novels and devotional writings. Currently living in southwest Ohio.

    I am passionate about helping women find their way to Jesus through Bible study, teaching, speaking, inspirational writing and creative Bible journaling.

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