A Hopeless Case

October 28th, 2014 dsisler

 

I am beginning to feel the pressures of this week. There are some big events coming up at church that I need to be on top of. I have a Halloween costume to complete. And I am committed to putting a “Jesus loves YOU” sticker on each piece of candy that I will hand out this Friday night.

 

peaceI have two Bible studies to lead between now and the weekend which requires prep. I have blog postings to write. There are the usual day-to-day items that need checked off my list: laundry, meal preparation, cleaning, etc. I am definitely under pressure.

 

But what I know in my heart is that it isn’t hopeless. I have hope in Jesus and with Him by my side, I know I can face any situation without being crushed by the pressure. Take a look at these verses and see if you can gain encouragement.

 

“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” (Romans 5:5 – NIV)

 

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27 – NIV)

 

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.” (1 Timothy 1:1 – NIV)

 

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:19a – NIV)

 

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3 – NIV)

 

When we place our hope in Jesus, we find great benefits. Unfailing love (Psalm 33:18), confidence in God (Psalm 71:5), God’s Word to point us to His hope (Psalm 119:81), God’s delight (Psalm 147:11), and boldness (2 Corinthians 3:12).

 

My little bit of pressure may be nothing compared to what you are facing. Perhaps you could use a good dose of hope this morning. If so, take God’s Word as truth and place your hope in Jesus. Believe the verses of Scripture above and hold tightly to their truth. What a blessed Savior we have to put our hope in!

 

And finally, one last passage. It’s one of my favorites because there have been many times in my life when I’ve felt just this way. I pray that God’s Word will fill you with hope this day. You will not be crushed, left to despair, abandoned, or destroyed. Not when your hope is in Jesus!

 

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.” (2 Corinthians 4:7-10 – NIV)

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

Share

“Lay Me Down” – Monday Musical Musings

October 27th, 2014 dsisler

 

“I surrender.” Not words that we are inclined to say. It means that we have decided to give up all that we have to the conqueror. We tend to fight, fight, fight. We don’t want to be called “quitters.”

 

0005030206R-849x565So how do you react when you read Jesus’ words from Matthew 16:24-26 (NIV)? “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.” Jesus is asking for you to give Him full authority over your life. Jesus is asking you to surrender to Him.

 

I believe there are different levels of surrender to Jesus. The initial acceptance of Jesus as your Savior would have been one level of surrender. As your relationship with Jesus grew, you surrendered a little more. As the maturity of your faith deepened, you’ve surrender yet more and more. Before you realize, it becomes easier to surrender behaviors, attitudes, and control over to Jesus.

 

Of course there will be difficult things to surrender to Jesus. Just take some of the lyrics from today’s chosen piece for instance. Are you willing to give up your pride? To sacrifice regardless of the cost? And to do so joyfully?

 

We can’t do this on our own. And we don’t have to. Jesus sent the gift of God’s Spirit to us when He left. The Holy Spirit leads and guides us to a greater understanding of what it means to daily walk with Jesus. The Holy Spirit shows up in our lives as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

 

Little by little, we are able to repeat the words of the Apostle Paul. “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 – NIV) Jesus surrendered all for us. We should at least be willing to try for Him.

 

Today, take a look at these words to “Lay Me Down.” See if there isn’t just one more area of your life that you could surrender to Jesus. Next week, offer yet another sacrifice. As the Holy Spirit points out sin in your life, surrender those actions or thoughts to Jesus. Step by step your relationship with Jesus will grow and Jesus will shine through you.

 

“Lay Me Down”

 

With this heart open wide
From the depths, from the heights
I will bring a sacrifice
With these hands lifted high
Hear my song hear my cry
I will bring a sacrifice
I will bring a sacrifice

 

Chorus:
I lay me down I’m not my own
I belong to you alone
Lay me down
Lay me down
Hand on my heart this much is true
There’s no life apart from you
Lay me down
Lay me down
 

Letting go of my pride
Giving up all my rights
Take this life and let it shine
Take this life and let it shine

(Chorus)

 

It will be my joy to say
Your will, Your way
It will be my joy to say
Your will, Your way
It will be my joy to say
Your will, Your way always[i]

 

Click here to listen to Chris Tomlin sing his version of “Lay Me Down.”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “Lay Me Down,” Words and Music by Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Jonas Myrin, and Jason Ingram, WorshipTogether.comsongs, Six Steps Music, Vamos Publishing, Said and Done Music, Shout! Publishing, Thank You Music, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, West Main Music and Windsor Hill Music, 2012.

Share

My New Favorite Place

October 26th, 2014 dsisler

 

Today’s repeated blog post is about my old office. It was pretty special, but what I’ve turned my new office into is pretty spectacular! With the use of my favorite location on the planet (the beach), I’ve created my little oasis in the middle of the Colorado mountains. The sites, the scents, the textures, the scenes of the beach are with me each moment I’m in my office.

 

windowsBut the best part of my new favorite place is that it’s where I meet God. I share my thoughts with Him. He tells me what I need to know. I dig deep into His Word and read snippets of passages as I look around. Yes, this is my new favorite place because God is with me right here. Right now.

 

Another favorite place for me is at church. In just a few hours, groups of believers will gather together for corporate worship and study of God’s Word. I pray that you will take the time to be with God today in a setting much like I’ve described. I can’t wait to get there!

 

My Favorite Place

 

Do you have a favorite spot or location? One that warms your heart the moment you arrive? I have several “favorite” spots. So I guess I really don’t have a favorite! My newest favorite place is my new office. Within its walls, I am made comfortable by the décor, the paint colors, and the little items that make this room uniquely mine.

 

I painted a silhouette of a tree on one wall. I chose the color “chocolate brownie.” The gentleman who mixed the paint for me chuckled. He said he would be hungry for brownies all the time if he knew that was the name of the color. Well, that got me thinking! I began a search for a chocolate scented candle. It was actually more difficult than I would have thought, but finally, I found my candle and now the pleasant smell of brownies fills the air.

 

The sounds of my favorite artists fill the room with music. Depending upon my mood, gospel, pop, swing, classic country, contemporary praise, Christmas, or instrumental music can be heard. Each tune brings to mind something different. Perhaps a moment in time or a person. Maybe a reminder to be thankful or get up and dance! Sometimes after several runs through an album, I’ll remember to switch it to something new. Regardless, the music that plays is inspirational for me.

 

I have a lovely ceiling fan with a light. It is pretty and functional. When it is turned on, the bulbs shed light on the work I do and the fan gives a breeze that could almost be called “hurricainal.” I know that isn’t a word, but this little fan can sure move some air! I have a desk lamp as well for when I’m reading my Bible or working on Bible studies. It too provides the light needed for all tasks at my desk.

 

Throughout my house, you’ll find joy. Not my granddaughter (well maybe on certain days you’ll find her here), but the word “joy.” I’ve lost count of the actual number of plaques, pictures, artwork, etc. with that word on it, but each room has something with joy on it. My office is no different. Joy can be found in prominent places and there is even one that you’d need to search for. My coffee coaster has red poppies on it. In making Ukrainian Eggs, the red poppy is a symbol for joy. Joy abounds here!

 

Among the items on the walls are verses of Scripture that are meaningful to me. They are words directly from God for me to remember. “For the Lord is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 100:5) “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4) “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 40:10) “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

 

As I sit at my desk the verse that I see directly in front of me is “Show me your ways, O Lord. Guide me in your truth and teach me.” (Psalm 25:4-5) For me, this is what it’s all about. As I study God’s Word, prepare to lead women in Bible study, or write, I’m always open to His teachings and guidance. I’m always searching for His truth.

 

In several ways, my office reminds me of heaven. It is a welcoming place. A comfortable place. And the reason? God has invited us join Him in heaven. He has invited us to join Him for eternity. It is where He dwells. And He has done His best work there.

 

  • God’s chosen décor for heaven is gems, pearls, and gold.
  • There is a tree…the tree of life.
  • Perhaps there will be glorious scents…we are invited to the wedding feast after all.
  • And music? Of course! Thousands and thousands of angels singing, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” (Revelation 5:13)
  • There will be no need of a light or a lamp, for God Himself will provide the Light.
  • And yes, there will even be joy! We will join with the angels in joyful assembly.
  • God’s Word will be there as well. Just as He spoke in the beginning, He will speak throughout eternity.

 

My office…a little bit like heaven. I will never sit here again without thinking of my future home. One that God has prepared for you and me. Come and join me in that ultimate “favorite” place. God will be waiting!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

Share

The Memory Thing

October 25th, 2014 dsisler

 

I won’t say it’s because I’m older, but my memory isn’t nearly as good as it was in my earlier years. However, I must say that my memory is much better than it was a few years back. For that, I am truly grateful.

 

Sept. 22, 2004 018Sometimes we forget the important things in this life. A birthday. An appointment. Or a person’s name. And sometimes we forget the mundane things, like taking out the trash or thawing something for dinner.

 

As I’ve grown closer to Jesus in my relationship with Him, I’ve learned to be more dependent upon the Holy Spirit to help me remember the important things. But especially I’ve learned to be more in tune with God’s Spirit when it comes to recalling the goodness of God. His Spirit helps me when I need to remember Scripture that I’ve held close to my heart. And the Holy Spirit brings to mind the things that are most important.

 

When we look through Scripture, we’ve been called to remember certain things. Let’s see what you remember.

 

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.” (Exodus 20:8 – NIV) Yes, I understand as Christians we don’t keep the Sabbath, but if we think about Jesus’ teaching and heart issues, wouldn’t everyday need to be considered holy? I believe so. How do you remember to keep your days holy?

 

Nehemiah reminded the Israelites that God was with them during the rebuilding of the wall. When they faced opposition he said, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for you brothers, your sons and your daughters, you wives and your homes.” (Nehemiah 4:14 – NIV) What do you remember about God’s great and awesomeness?

 

When you’re wide awake in the middle of the night, what do you think about? Here’s a thought. “On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.” (Psalm 63:6 – NIV) Or “I remembered my songs in the night.” (Psalm 77:6 – NIV) Singing or recalling God’s goodness is a great way to get through a long night.

 

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.” (Psalm 77:11-12 – NIV) Can you remember any of God’s deeds and miracles (in Scripture or in your own life)? What work might you consider today?

 

Of course, we are to remember God’s commands and precepts throughout the day. “But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.” (Psalm 102:17-18 – NIV)

 

Isaiah had a way with words. We see beautiful prophecies of our blessed Messiah. We find hope in his words as well. But then throws in a verse like this. “Remember this, fix it in mind, take it to heart, you rebels.” (Isaiah 46:8 – NIV) Isaiah urges us to remember all that God has done for us, but sometimes we forget and return to our rebellious ways. Sometimes we simply need to see it for what it is. Let God’s Word penetrate your heart and do what it says. That’s transformation. Remember it.

 

There are other cases in Scripture of things we are to remember. Like when observing the Lord’s Supper we are to remember Jesus (1 Corinthians 11:23-29). We should remember those in prison (Hebrews 13:3). And we are to remember our leaders (Hebrews 13:7).

 

While this list isn’t exhaustive, it is a good start of the things God wants us to remember. So what are you going to remember today? I pray that God’s Spirit will bring to mind what you need to remember today.

 

But I would also urge you to work on this remembrance thing as an exercise for yourself. Let’s remember because we want to remember. Remember what God has done for you. Remember where you used to be and how far you’ve come. Remember that God’s love and grace has reached down to you. Thank God and praise Him for all the blessings He’s lavished upon you. Remember. Remember.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

Share

What’s the Benefit?

October 24th, 2014 dsisler

 

Maybe you’ve asked this question before. It might be worded differently, but in essence you’ve asked the question, “What’s in it for me?” Whether it’s a warranty plan or a credit card application or a grocery store club card, we want to know what our benefits are and what we get in return.

 

sunsetWe recently bought a warranty for a piece of jewelry and to be honest, we haven’t been all that impressed with the benefits of this plan. Our health insurance benefits aren’t nearly as good as they used to be. And sometimes those electronic coupons don’t transfer to my shopping card. It can be frustrating.

 

There are times in my life when the benefits just don’t measure up to the sales pitch or the expectation. The benefits of this world can be disappointing, but I know for sure that the benefits I receive from God will never fail.

 

There’s a passage in the Book of Psalms that caught my attention this week. King David was thinking of the benefits he received from God and put pen to paper so that we might remember these benefits. Let’s take a look at this passage.

 

“Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (Psalm 103:1-5 – NIV)

 

Did you catch those benefits? I hope not! Let’s look at these benefits individually.

 

God forgives all your sins

The key word here is all. Not just the little sins, but the big ones as well. If you still need convincing, here are a few more verses to consider. Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 43:25-26; Micah 7:18-19; and 1 John 1:9.

 

God heals all your diseases

This one is a little more difficult to believe because we all know people who have not been healed. There are passages that show God’s desire to heal us of our diseases. Take a look at Psalm 41:3; Isaiah 53:4-5; James 5:14; and 1 Peter 2:24.

 

However, we know that God chose not to heal Paul of his “thorn in the flesh.” Why? So that he wouldn’t become conceited and so that he would become more trusting in God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). When we realize that God’s grace is enough, we come to understand that that benefit far outweighs healing.

 

God redeems your life from the pit

Oh that dreaded pit. The place we go to get covered in the muck and grime of sin. This benefit of God shows that He is not willing to leave us in that state. He wants us to come out of that pit of despair so that we might enjoy the benefit of hope and salvation.

 

Psalm 40:2 (NIV) says, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” If you seemed to have missed this benefit, why not ask God to help you out of that pit?

 

God crowns you with love and compassion

God’s love and compassion are more wonderful than I can express. The prophet Jeremiah spoke of God’s compassion in Lamentation 3:21-23 (NIV). “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

 

This benefit is never ending. There’s no expiration date. And you can receive as much as you need on a daily basis. God is faithful to provide love and compassion. Every. Single. Day!

 

God satisfies your desires with good things

In a world where satisfaction is difficult to find, I know the One who is able to satisfy beyond my wildest imagination. Here are a few passages to consider. Psalm 63:1-5; Psalm 90:40; Luke 11:11-13; John 4:4-26; and James 1:17.

 

Good things. Not the good things of this life, but the good things of our souls. Our spiritual satisfaction can be found only through God, His Son, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. We may find satisfaction in some of the good things of our world, but it can never replace the spiritual satisfaction we find in our Heavenly Father.

 

God renews

This benefit is so uplifting. When I am at the end of my rope, God gives the added strength to continue. To keep going. Isaiah 40:30-31 speak to being renewed to run and soar. Psalm 23:3 tells us that God restores our souls. Romans 12:2 reminds us to renew our minds through God’s transformation. 2 Corinthians 4:16 points to our inner renewal even though our outward bodies are falling apart.

 

The benefits found in these short verses are encouraging. When things don’t seem to be going as we would like, maybe it’s a good idea to think, to remember the benefits God has blessed us with.

 

Above all, I pray that you are praising God for all that comes into your life. Praise is yet another benefit we’ve received from the Father above. Let’s not allow our day to go by without thanking Him for the many benefits He has given. Let’s praise His holy Name!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

Share
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

  • Subscribe by Email

  • About Me

    "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.

  • Bible Studies & Other Happenings

    Bible studies I’m currently leading:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    In September 2012 I went to SE Asia on a service trip. For more information, check out preachitclearly.blogspot.com.

  • Categories

  • Recent Posts

Visit Us On TwitterVisit Us On FacebookVisit Us On PinterestVisit Us On Linkedin