What a Makeover!

August 29th, 2014 dsisler

 

I’ve been working on this office of mine for a while. It seems that each day I tweak it just a bit. Change a section of the room. Fix what I feel needs fixing. It seems like it’s never ending and will never be finished.

 

???????????????????????????????What I do like is what has happened through the transformation of this room. It’s gone from a room that looked “kitschy” and outdated to an interesting, inviting room.

 

This transformation however was not easy. Hours of hard work have gone into this change. But on this side of the makeover, it’s worth all the effort.

 

Change can some???????????????????????????????times be hard for us in life. And the change that God requires of us can be difficult from the start. But as we allow God’s Spirit to lead and guide us, the change and transformation we undergo becomes less difficult.

 

The prophet Jeremiah was given a message to tell the people of Judah in Jeremiah 7. Part of this message was for them to change. Take a look at some of God’s words.

 

“Reform your ways and your actions and I will let you live in this place.” (Jeremiah 7:3b – NIV)

 

“If you really change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly, if you do not oppress the alien, the fatherless or the widow and do not shed innocent blood in this place, and if you do not follow other gods to your own harm, then I will let you live in this place, in the land I gave your forefathers for ever and ever.” (Jeremiah 7:5-7 – NIV)

 

God was asking for Judah to be faithful to Him. To change from their old habits and lifestyle and return to Him. That’s exactly what He asks of us.

 

At Saul’s anointing in 1 Samuel 10, King Saul heard these words of the Lord through the prophet Samuel.

 

“The Spirit of the Lord will come upon you in power, and you will be prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.” (1 Samuel 10:6 – NIV)

 

That’s exactly what happens to us when we accept Jesus as our Savior! We received God’s Spirit and we become powerful through Him. And we are changed into a different person!

 

Our desires become God’s desires. Our will becomes His will. We are transformed.

 

“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 – NIV)

 

As we allow His Spirit to lead us, we become more like Christ. Ever-increasing to reflect His glory. That is what change is all about.

 

But in order for this change to take place, we must allow God’s Spirit to transform us. Take a look at Paul’s words in Romans 12.

 

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is our spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2 – NIV)

 

As we offer our lives to God, He is able to change us from what we once were—sinners saved by grace—into people who please God and are holy like Him. And it’s through this change that we find His will.

 

The change in my beach room didn’t happen overnight. It was an on-going process for a month or so. And to be honest, I really don’t think I’m quite done. It’s the same with our spiritual lives. Change is an on-going process. The more we know about God and His character, the more we want to be just like Him.

 

If you’ve already accepted Jesus as your Savior, how are you doing on this transformation thing? I pray that you and others are noticing the change. That you are becoming more and more like your heavenly Father.

 

If you are looking for this change in your life, let me know. I’d love to point you in the direction of this change. It’s a great day for change. Why not take that first step?

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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Just One More

August 28th, 2014 dsisler

 

Oh please forgive me. I need to repurpose an older blog post for just one more day. My Dad got off to the airport and has made it home safely. My visit with him was better than I could have imagined. There will be multiple posts to come to share how God showed up in the most wonderful ways.

 

My Mom however, went in for another angioplasty. Another stent was placed in a blocked artery and the other artery was “cleaned out.” She is resting comfortably and we are praying for another “full” recovery…remember she is supposed to come to Colorado for a visit.

 

So today, I share a piece about autumn, Women’s Bible study, and how God is described in Scripture. I pray that you will find great encouragement from this blog post. Have a blessed day!

 

Like What?

 

cornicopiaIt’s official. Fall has arrived in my neck of the woods.

 

It is officially fall when first day of school pictures are posted on Facebook.

 

It is officially fall when the windows in my home can be left open throughout the day with a cool breeze billowing in.

 

It is officially fall when my orange, yellow, red and gold décor make their way from the basement to the living room.

 

It is officially fall when I receive an email from our women’s ministry director stating what leaders will be teaching each Bible study.

 

I know technically it isn’t fall, but it is beginning to “feel” like fall.

 

When the trees begin their color change. When sweaters and shoes replace tank tops and flip flops. When anything made of pumpkin sounds delicious.

 

It feels like fall.

 

As we search Scripture, we can see some descriptions of God as being like something we are familiar with.

 

We’ll begin our search in 2 Samuel 22:3 (NIRV) where the author of this book states, “My God is my rock. I go to him for safety. He is like a shield to me. He’s the power that saves me. He’s my place of safety. I go to him for help. He’s my Savior. He saves me from those who want to hurt me.”

 

God is like a shield. His protection is provided to us against all of our enemies.

 

In the book of Psalms, we see a couple of descriptions of God. Psalm 46:7 (NIRV) says, “The Lord who rules over all is with us. The God of Jacob is like a fort to us.” Again, we see God’s protection. A fortress to surround us in times of trouble.

 

And in Psalm 121:5 (NIRV), the Psalmist shows how God provides comfort during the uncomfortable times of our life. “The Lord watches over you. The Lord is like a shade tree at your right hand.”

 

In Proverbs, we see two more pictures of what God is like. In Proverbs 3:12 (NIRV), God is described as a father. “The Lord trains those he loves. He is like a father who trains the son he is pleased with.” Because of the great love God has for us, we accept His training as we might from our earthly father.

 

And in Proverbs 18:10 (NIRV), God’s name is shown to be of great value to those who seek protection. “The name of the Lord is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe.”

 

God is described as a consuming fire several times in Scripture. As One who desires that we remain faithful to Him. The Hebrew author states it like this. “We are receiving a kingdom that can’t be shaken. So let us be thankful. Then we can worship God in a way that pleases him. We will worship him with deep respect and wonder. Our ‘God is like a fire that burns everything up.’” (Hebrews 12:28-29, referencing Deuteronomy 4:24 – NIRV)

 

The Psalmist asks the question, “Who, O God, is like you?” (Psalm 71:19b – NIV) And Jeremiah answers the question. “No one is like you, O Lord; you are great, and your name is mighty in power.” (Jeremiah 10:6 – NIV) We can try to describe God, but to be honest, God is beyond our comprehension. And also to be honest, I’m thankful for that.

 

If I were able to put my exact words to God’s existence and being, there would be nothing to draw me to Him. I’d have Him figured out. But instead, I’m continually searching for God. For who He is and why He loves me so. I’m continually searching His Word to find something new about God.

 

What is God like to you? Is He like a Light? Is He like a Teacher? Is He like a Husband? Is He like a Father? What is God like?

 

The great news is that God wants to be all of these for you and He wants to be everything for you.

 

It feels like fall, because fall really is just around the corner. But until then, we’ll continue to see small glimpses into the upcoming season. It is a season of thanksgiving. Let’s give thanks to our God for being so likeable.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

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Visit with Dad – Day 6

August 27th, 2014 dsisler

 

While I enjoy my visit with my dad I will post some of my favorite musical musings from a while back. Enjoy your visit!

 

Wonderful Grace of Jesus – Musical Musings in March

 

MusicToday I’m taking you back to my college days. Music was all around and an impact on me, but if you were to ask other students, you’d probably hear the same. Chapel services with great hymns of our faith being sung. Christmas concerts. Choir tours. A stirring rendition of “Blessed Assurance” could even be heard in the classroom.

 

Yes, Cincinnati Bible College (now known as Cincinnati Christian University) was filled with music and musical memories for me. And the hymn I share with you today is one that rings loudly in my memory.

 

“Wonderful Grace of Jesus” isn’t just a hymn. It is a musical dance that leads partners in and out of proximity to one another. The scales run up and down. The tune heads in different directions. But when it is complete, the message is told. Jesus’ grace is wonderful!

 

You see, the value of a piece of music isn’t just in the melody, the rhythm or the harmonies. It must hold its value in the message. For if the message does not lead a soul to Christ, then it is just a song. There are some great songs in our world, but those that lead others to Christ are truly valuable.

 

So today I share “Wonderful Grace of Jesus” with you. You’ll enjoy a version of the song by clicking on this link.

 

Wonderful Grace of Jesus

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, greater than all my sin;
How shall my tongue describe it, where shall its praise begin?
Taking away my burden, setting my spirit free,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me!

(Refrain)

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching to all the lost,
By it I have been pardoned, saved to the uttermost;
Chains have been torn asunder, giving me liberty,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me!

(Refrain)

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching the most defiled,
By its transforming power, making him God’s dear child.
Purchasing peace and heaven for all eternity;
And the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me![i]

(Refrain)

 

Refrain:
Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus,
Deeper than the mighty rolling sea;
Wonderful Grace, All-sufficient for me;
Broader than the scope of my transgressions,
Greater far than all my sin and shame;
O magnify the precious name of Jesus, praise His name!

 

Oh, we have so much to praise Jesus for! And grace certainly tops my list!

 

Were you able to pick out a few phrases that vividly depict Jesus’ grace? Greater than sin. Takes away burdens. Sets spirits free. Reaches the lost. Tears chains asunder. Gives liberty. Provides transforming power. Purchases peace and heaven.

 

Grace reaches me!

 

Jesus’ grace reaches you, too! Let’s see what God’s Word has to say about His grace and how it reaches us.

 

Paul shares these words with us in Ephesians 1:7-8 (NIV). “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

 

And again Paul speaks of God’s grace in Ephesians 2:6-8 (NIV). “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

 

We see from the Hebrew writer that we have confidence in the grace Jesus provides. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 – NIV)

 

Through Jesus’ grace we find restoration, strength, solid footing, and a firm foundation. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10 – NIV)

 

When we are covered by Jesus’ grace, we are covered. Completely. Confidently. Covered. It’s up to you to accept His grace and allow yourself to be saturated with it.

 

Occasionally I hear this tune and I am immediately drawn back to my college days. I’m sure that will never change. But the most important thing is that this song reminds me of Jesus’ grace and I am never far from needing a good dose.

 

“Wonderful Grace of Jesus.” I pray that you are within His reach.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

[i] Wonderful Grace of Jesus, Haldor Lillenas, 1919

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Visit with Dad – Day 5

August 26th, 2014 dsisler

 

While I enjoy my visit with my dad I will post some of my favorite musical musings from a while back. Enjoy your visit!

 

Playing Games at the Foot of the Cross – Musical Musings in March

 

MusicIn years past, I was the choir director for several small choirs throughout Ohio and Kentucky. The time spent listening to cantatas and allowing the music to touch me were very special to me. I looked forward to Christmas and Easter because of what we collectively as a choir would present to our fellow congregants as well as visitors.

 

Some of my productions were quite large and elaborate while others were simple without drama or staging. But either way, the message was always that of God. His message was presented.

 

One particular song from a cantata hit me hard and it has stuck with me through the years. And after you listen to the music and read through the lyrics, I’m sure you’ll know why and perhaps you’ll be touched as I have been.

 

The song is from the cantata “Once and For All” by Tom Fettke with narration writings by Max Lucado. The entire cantata is filled with meaningful words and music, but “Playing Games” brought the whole scene into my world and made me think of what games I was playing in Christ’s Church.

 

So, read through the words and perhaps listen to the song and you’ll understand what I mean.

 

“Playing Games at the Foot of the Cross”

 

You’ve heard the story, many times before –
How the soldiers gambled for the robe of the Lord.
Their laughter drowning out, the Savior’s cry,
“Father forgive them” as He bows his head and dies.

 

And they were playing games at the foot of the cross,
so close to his struggle, yet so far from the cost.
Never feeling the shame and never sensing the loss.
They were playing games at the foot of the cross.

 

We’re so quick to judge them yet so slow to see
how their games resemble the ones played by you and me.
As we fight for position in the Church of God
While the world just goes on dying without the Savior’s love.

 

We’re just were playing games at the foot of the cross,
so close to his struggle yet so far from the cost.
Never feeling the shame and never sensing the loss.
We’re just playing games at the foot of the cross.

 

We’re just playing games at the foot of the cross,
so close to his struggle yet so far from the cost.
Never feeling the shame and never sensing the loss.
We’re just playing games at the foot of the cross.[i]

 

You can listen to this portion of the cantata by going to this link.

 

Yes, these words still touch me. I still struggle with this same issue. I get so busy with my own life that I forget about those around me who do not know Jesus. And I have the message. I have the gift of salvation. I know how it can change a life. And yet, how often do I take the time to share it?

 

I don’t like seeing myself in this way, but I must. For if I never know the areas where I need to improve, I will remain the same.

 

We are called by Jesus to be His followers, to accept His cross, to bear His Name, to share His message. It’s a package deal. We can’t just pick and choose what we want.

 

So where do we begin?

 

First we must know it. Let’s get into God’s Word and really know what He has to say. Study His Scripture to gain insight for your soul (2 Timothy 2:15).

 

And we must live it. If we know it, we must follow it. We must live out the words of God day-to-day (Romans 12:2).

 

Then we must share it. As the message changes you, you will find it more difficult to keep it to yourself. You really will want to share it with others (Colossians 3:16).

 

We don’t want to continue to play games at the foot of the cross. So let’s move along. Let’s get active. Let’s get doing. There is so much at stake. Are you with me?

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

[i] Playing Games at the Foot of the Cross, Tom Fettke, © 1994 Word Music, Inc. (a div. of Word Music Group, Inc.)

 

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Visit with Dad – Day 4

August 25th, 2014 dsisler

 

While I enjoy my visit with my dad I will post some of my favorite musical musings from a while back. Enjoy your visit!

 

“Hallelujah He is Born” – Musical Musings in March

 

MusicYou knew I couldn’t get too far into March without bringing up a Christmas tune. There are plenty out there for me to choose from and many that I love, adore and listen to year round.

 

But the one I’ve chosen is an original tune from one of my favorite bands, Sawyer Brown. If you don’t read any more of this post, please jump down and play the song. Your feet will be tapping before you know it (I wouldn’t be surprised if you start dancing!) and you will be praising God for sending His Son.

 

The first time I heard this song was on a figure skating Christmas television special. I love figure skating. I love Sawyer Brown. I love Christmas. I had to watch the special. And so thankful that I did for I found a new Christmas song.

 

Here are the lyrics to “Hallelujah He is Born.”

 

A mighty prayer went up –
An answer came down from above
To save a lonely world God sent His only Son
He came as a baby, quiet as a lamb
With peace in His heart and us all in His hands
Saying I’m gonna show you now
What love is all about (and I sing)

Chorus
Hallelujah, hallelujah He is born
Hallelujah, He is Christ the Lord
He’s the King of Kings, our redeemer and friend
Hallelujah, He is born, amen
Hallelujah, hallelujah He is here
Hallelujah, we’ve got nothing to fear
To this dark old world He brings a light without end
Hallelujah, He is born, amen

He came in love and peace on that holy night
They came from near and far in that guiding light
Lying in a manger was a baby King
And from that night until this day we sing
Lord Jesus is His name
Heaven and earth proclaim (and I sing)

Chorus
Repeat Chorus

Hallelujah, amen
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Amen
Hallelujah, hallelujah He is born, amen[i]

 

If you have never heard this song, please take the time to listen. I can guarantee it’s a song you’ll want to listen to every Christmas…or all year long as I do! “Hallelujah He is Born”- click here to listen.

 

I believe the essence of this song can be found in the line, “I’m gonna show you now what love is all about.” That is exactly what God was showing. God was showing His love to all mankind.

 

God’s love for us is far beyond what we could possibly imagine. Paul expressed this vast love through his words in Ephesians 3:17b-19 (NIV). “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

 

John speaks of God’s great love in 1 John 3:1 (NIV). “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”

 

And we read of God’s love again in John 3:16 (NIV). “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

 

Because God loved us first, we are to love Him back. Jesus told us how to do so. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:30 – NIV)

 

The way we can show our love to God is by following His commands. Jesus told us in John 14:15 (NIV), “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” Jesus gave His live for us. All He asks us in return is to obey Him.

 

And as we accept God’s love and His salvation through Jesus Christ, we are to love others as God loved us. “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4:7-8 – NIV)

 

God is faithful in His love. Sometimes we are not so faithful. But today we can remedy that. Today we can love God and love others. That’s what God asks of us.

 

Christmas is past and we have many months before it rolls around again, but the spirit of Christmas, love, is with us all year long. And today, we can sing, “Hallelujah He is Born!”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

[i] Hallelujah He is Born, Sawyer Brown, 1997

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

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