Paper and Colored Pencils

November 7th, 2013 dsisler

I love to try new things. Crafts. Foods. Experiences. It doesn’t matter what it is, if it catches my attention, I want to do it or make it. I think that’s why I love Pinterest so much.

 

I also love to try new things when it comes to Bible study or prayer time. Recently, I heard of a book called “Praying in Color” by Sybil MacBeth. While I haven’t read the book, I’ve read about it and how others have used this concept in prayer time.

 

I threw this concept on the poor ladies in my Wednesday night Bible study group last night. I brought a little sheet with four objects and words attached. I gave them colored pencils and we spent seven minutes in quiet prayer time. To be honest, the time flew by.

 

The idea is to “doodle” as you pray. It helps to keep our minds focused on what we’re praying about. Some people use a different color for specific people and so when the color is seen throughout the day you’re reminded to pray for that person. Some use this concept to praise God through the colors He created. Some just doodle because it helps them stay connected to God during prayer time.

 

One of my favorite examples of this type of praying was an Advent calendar. Each day a passage of Scripture is given and the doodling begins when prayers are lifted. What an exciting way to anticipate the giving of our beloved Savior!

 

I’m certain that not every woman in the room felt drawn to this type of prayer time, but some were. And if they spend just a little more time with God through this method of prayer, then it was worth the share.

 

Sometimes we do get into a rut and do the same things over and over. Our prayer time isn’t as exciting as it should be. Our Bible reading isn’t filled with the joy it should have. So, yes, I believe there are times in our lives that we must shake it up. Try something new. Experience God’s majesty in a different way.

 

Doodle PageSo today, I offer you the same sheet I gave to the ladies last night. In the first object, you’ll notice arrows reaching up and out with the words “know Jesus and love like Him.” In this object, draw or write words that lead you to a closer relationship with Jesus and also to those around us. Building relationships is the focus of this object.

 

The second object is a thought cloud. What are God’s thoughts that He would like you to know? What have you studied this week from God’s Word that needs to be meditated upon?

 

The third object is a sunburst. The Bible study I am currently leading is “Pray with Purpose, Live with Passion” by Debbie Miller. In this book she offers a characteristic or title of God and how we can pray using these words based on the letters of the alphabet. Each chapter begins with, “Lord, You are…” So around this starburst, we used words like Almighty, Beloved Son, Comforter, Door, Eternal, Faithful, Guardian of my Soul, Holy and Immanuel. Any words you feel appropriate will also fit in those starbursts.

 

And finally the fourth object was a scroll with the words, “What I need to learn this week…” Obviously, God doesn’t want us to just study His Word. He wants it to transform us. So this is the application portion of the prayer experience. What do I need to do this week to become more like Jesus?

 

There is no Scriptural basis for this type of prayer. It was just a fun exercise that leads us to a greater, deeper desire to be with God. That’s really what it’s all about.

 

Perhaps you feel that your prayer time is a little stale. If so, maybe this is a way to brighten it up. Freshen it up a bit. Draw you closer to God. I pray that it will.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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Just Like Jesus

November 6th, 2013 dsisler

As the executive assistant to the lead pastor at a mega church, my role is allowing me to do a great deal of the things I love to do. I’m an organizer, so I enjoy the little details of each day. I’ve been able to arrange meetings, appointments and phone calls. I’ve been able to make travel arrangements. I’ve been able to help with organizing staff events as well.

 

0626091024Our first staff gathering since I have been on staff was in September and I made sure everyone knew what to bring, where to go and when to arrive. At the end of the night, one of the student pastors said, “Hey Donna, you’re just like Jesus! You throw a great party at someone else’s home.”

 

I laughed of course, but deep inside, I was thrilled that someone thought I was just like Jesus!

 

In Philippians 2, Paul tells us that Jesus was a servant. “…taking the very nature of a servant…” (Philippians 2:6-7 – NIV). Just before this passage however, Paul tells us that our “attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5 – NIV)

 

So if we are to take on the attitude of Jesus as a servant, we must look at what He did as a servant to learn how to serve.

 

Jesus Had a Servant Heart

In one of Jesus’ teaching moments, He shared an important message with the disciples and mothers of two of the disciples. His message was that if you want to be great, you must be a servant. Jesus then tells them why He came to earth. “Whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:27-28 – NIV)

 

So we must be willing to become a slave. A servant. And always be searching for ways to serve another. It was how Jesus lived His life.

 

Jesus Healed the Sick

Jesus healed the sick. Both physically and spiritually. Through physical healing, Jesus opened the door to spiritual healing in many instances. But in each case, He never took the credit. God was always given the glory for the healing. A servant attitude overflows with humility.

 

While God is the only One who can heal, we can lead others to spiritual healing. We can serve others as we share the Gospel, teach its message, and proclaim God’s salvation to the world.

 

Jesus was Hospitable

Yes, when Jesus shared the last meal with His disciples, He was hospitable. He was a gracious Host. “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples…” (Matthew 26:26 – NIV) Jesus served at least a portion of this meal.

 

Hospitality goes beyond serving meals. It is making others feel comfortable around us. Jesus’ example of hospitality leads me to believe that we are to be hospitable in our attitude.

 

Jesus Did Whatever was Necessary

In John 13, we see the example of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples. This simple act of service caused great turmoil. But it was yet another teaching moment. When He was finished, Jesus asked the disciples, “Do you understand what I have done for you?” (John 13:12b – NIV)

 

I’m sure they were confused, but He then explained the importance of serving others. “I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:16-17 – NIV)

 

As believers, we know these things. Now we must do them. So what are we to do? Anything that puts others before ourselves. It may be washing feet. But it also may be raking leaves for an elderly person or mentoring an at-risk child or visiting a nursing home.

 

In the parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 26:31-46), as the King gathers all the nations, He blesses those who fed Him when He was hungry. Who offered a drink when He was thirsty. Who invited Him in as a stranger. Who clothed Him when He was naked. Who cared for Him when He was sick. Who visited Him in prison.

 

The righteous were confused. They had never done any of these things for the King.

 

He then offers these words. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 26:40 – NIV)

 

I believe the message here is clear. We are called to serve others. In whatever way we possibly can.

 

Jesus Loved

Jesus also loved with a servant heart. He was compassionate (Matthew 9:36; Matthew 14:14; Matthew 15:32; Luke 7:13). He was sorrowful (Matthew 26:37-38). He grieved (Luke 19:41; John 11:35). He knew how to love.

 

Oh to have Jesus’ compassion, sorrow and grief for a hurt and dying world. That is how we are to love others. By living life with them. By showing them that we care. By sharing God’s love with them.

 

These are my observations on serving. Perhaps there are more. I’m sure there are. But as we look into Jesus’ heart, we can see nothing but that of a servant. And that is the exact attitude we are to take upon ourselves.

 

How will you serve others today? Over the next week? Over the next month? I pray that you have something already set up. If not, why not connect with your local church and see what they have going on and find a place in the serving crowd. There’s always room for one more.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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Two Quotes

November 5th, 2013 dsisler

In one of the four books I’m currently reading, I found these two quotes that I like. The author calls them, God’s grammar rules. I call them good.

 

Quote #1: “Never put a period where God puts a comma.”[i]

 

DSC02411mIn the account of Lazarus’ death (John 11:1-44), Jesus waited before going to Bethany. He had heard Lazarus was ill. He had heard the cries of Mary and Martha. He knew all it would take were a few words or even a thought and Lazarus would be healed.

 

But Jesus waited.

 

Mary and Martha thought the period had been placed at the end of Lazarus’ life. But Jesus had a different plan. A plan that would allow Mary and Martha’s faith to reach enormous heights. A plan that would bring healing to a man who was indeed dead. A plan that would point others to God.

 

That’s exactly what God has in mind for us. When we believe we can’t go one step further and that God has placed the period at the end of our request, He might just surprise us with an amazing twist.

 

Our faith will be put to the test and in the end, our faith will soar. And ultimately, each situation must point others to God. God must be glorified.

 

The important thing to keep in mind is that God’s timing is not our timing. Be patient. Allow God to do His work in you. In His time, He will make it all beautiful (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

 

Quote #2: “Don’t put a comma where God puts a period.”

 

God has a plan. His plan includes following the guidelines He has given us in Scripture. I find myself being drawn to the things of this world that God has told me to leave be. And that’s when I should be smart enough to recognize God’s periods.

 

But like the Apostle Paul, I find myself doing what I shouldn’t do. Recall with me Paul’s words. “We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” (Romans 7:14-15 – NIV)

 

God has placed a period at the end of His guidelines. But we tend to want to push it just a bit further. We want just a little more. And pretty soon, we have added a comma where God’s period once stood.

 

The difference between right and wrong, black and white, good and evil eventually will be blurred and gray. We miss the absolute in God’s precepts. We succumb to the temptation and fall into sin.

 

Thankfully God’s grace will forgive us for our punctuation mistakes. But we need to be more diligent in remembering His rules and guidelines and then following them to letter…or period.

 

As we go through our day, let’s look for the periods and commas God is revealing to us. And let’s also learn to recognize the difference between the two. It’s not enough to learn the rules, we must live them. We must apply them. And in the end, all glory must go to God.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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[i] Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, Joanna Weaver, (Colorado Springs, Waterbrook Press, 2002), pg. 126-127.

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“How Long Has It Been” – Monday Musical Musings

November 4th, 2013 dsisler

Good morning!

 

It’s Monday morning and many of us are preparing to head to work this morning. It has been a great weekend at our home and I look forward to a great week.

 

0005030206R-849x565And since it is Monday, why not talk a little about music and how it’s blessed me through the years?

 

This particular song has been in my heart for a very long time. I recall my Dad singing this song when I was a young girl. I’m certain this is not the case, but I only remember my Mom or my Dad singing one solo each in a church service. This is the song my Dad sang.

 

The question asked is “How Long Has It Been?” Have long has it been since you’ve been with Jesus? Since you’ve prayed to Him? Since you’ve poured your heart out to Him? Since you felt that your life is worthwhile? Since you called Him your Friend?

 

This old gospel tune draws us to the throne of grace. If it’s been a while, perhaps you should take a few moments to communicate with God and let Him know how it’s going in your life. He really would love to hear from you.

 

If you connect to the lyrics of this song and they resonate through your heart and mind, let’s continue to enter into God’s presence and share our thoughts and hearts with Him. Let’s continue to call Him our Friend.

 

For encouragement, just read through these verses that speak to being in God’s presence and the benefits we receive as we choose to be with Him.

 

“Honor and majesty are in his presence; strength and joy are in his sanctuary.” (1 Chronicles 16:27 – AMP)

 

“Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6 – NIV)

 

“In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling you keep them safe from accusing tongues.” (Psalm 31:20 – NIV)

 

“Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.” (Psalm 65:4 – NIV)

 

These are just a handful of the benefits we receive in God’s presence. There is so much more God wants to give us. However, we must be in His presence. So, how long has it been?

 

How long has it been since you talked with the Lord
And told him your heart’s hidden secrets?
How long since you prayed?
How long since you stayed on your knees till the light shone through?

 

How long has it been since your mind felt at ease?
How long since your heart knew no burden?
Can you call him your friend?
How long has it been since you knew that he cared for you?

 

How long has it been since you knelt by your bed
And prayed to the Lord up in heaven?
How long since you knew that he’d answer you
And would keep you the long night through?

 

How long has it been since you woke with the dawn
And felt this day is worth living?
Can you call him your friend?
How long has it been since you knew that he cared for you?[i]

 

If you’d like to hear a version of this old gospel hymn, click here.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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[i] “How Long Has it Been?” Words and Music by Mosie Lister, 1956.

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An Extra Hour

November 3rd, 2013 dsisler

We all were blessed with an extra hour of sleep last night. Well, in theory anyway. I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t sleep any longer. That extra hour overnight wasn’t as grand as it should have been.

 

None the less, it’s Sunday morning and soon everyone in the house will be waking to ready ourselves for worship. I pray you’ll be doing the same.

 

Today is also my Dad’s birthday. Thank you Dad for your encouragement, your strength, your wisdom, your unending love, but most of all for sharing your love of Jesus with me. I love you!

 

Chapter 6 of the Doll House series speaks of God and His creation of mankind…specifically you and me. What a joy to share some thoughts about God as our Creator. Please enjoy!

 

Building a Doll House: The Creator – Chapter 6

 

I knew my husband was an engineer when I married him. What I didn’t know was how that was going to affect every aspect of our lives.

 

Joy's Dollhouse Assembly 050mYears ago, we built a loft bed for Bethany. To me, it looked like four legs, four sides, a base and some stabilizing pieces. But to Mason, it was a reflection of who he was. It had to be perfect. And if it wasn’t, more than likely, it would have to be taken apart and re-done.

 

It was no different with building the doll house. Each piece and part had to be placed with precise measurements and absolute certainty. For the perfectionist engineer, nothing less would do.

 

I love the wisdom found in the Book of Psalms. So today, let’s look at some of the elements in Psalm 139 in relation to the dollhouse.

 

Our God, the Creator of the universe, took great care in designing each of us. And regardless of how happy (or unhappy) we are with His creation, to Him, we are perfect.

 

Psalm 139 begins with the acknowledgement that God knows us. He knows us inside and out. He knows our actions. He knows our thoughts. He knows what we will speak before we speak them. Now that is knowledge.

 

The Psalter continues his discourse. Perhaps there were times he wanted to hide from God, but to no avail. God always knew where to find David.  It is the same for us. When sin is active in our lives, our greatest desire is to hide from God. But it’s no use. He knows.

 

And the greatest part is that God will continue to lead and guide us through those moments. He won’t ever give up on us. God is always there.

 

And then, Psalm 139 speaks of God’s hands at work in a mother’s womb. God, who planned each part of our world, created you and me. And to Him, we are perfect.

 

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

 

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body.

 

All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:14-16 – NIV)

 

Science is continually finding new things about our bodies to amaze us. But to be honest, our amazement shouldn’t be about what scientists have found, but that God created us that specific way.

 

God knew exactly what He was doing. He knew exactly what functions our bodies would need for survival. He knew how each organ would need to work with others. He was the Architect. The Designer of all creation. Why wouldn’t He get it perfect?

 

And yes, David expresses this in Psalm 139. He admires the thoughts of God. The endless thoughts that God had for all of creation. Down to the tiniest particle (that science seems to have just found and has interestingly enough called it the God Particle), God thought of it.

 

David doesn’t end the Psalm there. He continues with his desire for God to know him even more. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24 – NIV)

 

We like David, desire that deep relationship with God. But that means giving God full access to every corner and crevice, every nook and cranny of our lives.

 

I am thankful for the engineering, perfectionist mind of God. For without it, I could not say that I am exactly who God wants me to be. Without it, I might be considered a mistake. But I am not. I am a child of God. I am His beloved.

 

The doll house was finished and it is as perfect as any doll house you will find out there. I am thankful for my engineer, perfectionist husband who was willing to take the time to get it right. Thanks Gido, for the perfect doll house.

 

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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