A Long Time Ago

August 8th, 2012 dsisler

I was sorting through old blog posts. There are nearly 200 of them! But I wanted to sort by date. I clicked on the tab, “Date Modified,” and these were the options given to sort by.

  • A Long Time Ago
  • Earlier This Year
  • Last Week
  • Earlier This Week
  • Yesterday
  • Select a Date or a Date Range
A long time ago was the one that surprised me. The documents on my computer aren’t that old! Even if I had kept the very first document I typed and saved on a computer, it would only be 25 years old or so. That doesn’t constitute a long time ago for me.
However, I can find examples of “a long time ago” is in God’s Word. 2 Timothy 1:8b-10a (NIV) says, “…join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus…”
Before the beginning of time God had a plan for mankind. He purposed then to show grace to us. He lavished grace upon us long before we were born. That was a long time ago.
We see more evidence of God’s plan in Titus. “…a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, and at his appointed season he brought his word to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God our Savior.” (Titus 1:2-3 – NIV)
In this passage we see that God promised our hope before the beginning of time. This verse also shows that at specific times throughout history, God revealed His Word to mankind.
At first they were glimpses, prophecies of the coming Messiah. Then at the appointed time, The Word was introduced. Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament and God’s plan, designed before the beginning of time, was set into motion.
There is an interesting verse in Isaiah that shows how God views time. “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.” (Isaiah 46:10 – NIV)
For God, it doesn’t matter what time it is. It doesn’t matter where that event takes place in all of time. God’s purpose stands the test of time. His plan negates time. From the beginning to the end, long before and long after, God is. He said it best. I AM.
God had us in mind before time began. It was His desire for us to part of His plan. David knew this to be true and stated, “My times are in your hands…” (Psalm 31:15a – NIV) For the short time we are on this earth, God is holding the events and circumstances of our lives in His hands.
God’s hands will protect, cover, and comfort during the darkest times of our lives. They will show love, caress, and acknowledge existence during the loneliest times of our lives. They will invigorate, rejuvenate, and produce fruit during the unproductive times of our lives. God’s hands will invite laughter, bring joy, and perhaps tickle during the happiest times of our lives.
And He prepared to do so…a long time ago.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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Make Every Effort

August 7th, 2012 dsisler

There are a few things in my life that take great effort on my part to complete or follow through with. For instance, math is not my thing and it takes me a while to figure out a math problem. Okay, I’ll be honest; it takes me a long time to work out a math problem. My brain is not set up that way.

It takes a lot of effort for me to memorize anything. Whether it’s a phone number, a name, or a verse of Scripture, it will take great concentration and continuous repetition before I get it…then it really is a question of how long that piece of information will remain in my brain. So the real question is, “Did I memorize it?”
I have plantar fasciitis in both feet and it takes great effort each morning just to walk. Until those tendons loosen, I am in pain and must walk slowly and carefully. This effort also requires a lot of patience!
These are just a few pieces of my physical life that take effort. There are some spiritual efforts that I am required to work at as well.
Actually the verses we will be seeing today say to “make every effort.” Do more than just try. Don’t stop working at it. Do everything in your power, then allow God’s Spirit to jump in to help. Make every effort.
Let’s see what they are.
Jesus begins our teaching today. In Luke 13, Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem, but made stops along the way in the local towns and villages. At one point, He was asked, “Lord, are only a few going to be saved?” (Luke 13:23 – NIV)
Jesus said to them, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.” (Luke 13:24 – NIV) The narrow door isn’t the easy door, but those who do enter, will be greatly rewarded. Make every effort to get through that narrow door!
Paul encourages the Roman church with these words. “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19 – NIV) Yes, these are difficult, but we are called to peace and edification.
Synonyms for edification are improvement, education, enlightenment, instruction, teaching, or learning. Are you studying God’s Word so that you are able to mutual edify someone else? This verse tells us that we are to make every effort to join in on this process. Make every effort!
In Ephesians 4:3 (NIV), Paul speaks of unity. “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”Unity seems so difficult with so many personalities and occupations and cultures and just about anything that make a person who they are. But we are to keep the unity.
The good news? We have a Helper. The Holy Spirit. With the guidance and leadership of the Holy Spirit, this effort becomes effortless. We are able to accomplish this task because of who is within us. Make every effort.
“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.”(Hebrews 4:11 – NIV) “That rest” is our salvation. Not that we gain salvation by our works, but that our faith walk should be what others to see.
When we allow our disobedience to overtake our spiritual lives, we are not making every effort to reach our goal. And the worst part is that we can cause others to follow along the disobedience path. Therefore, we must make every effort to enter that rest…and take as many with us as we can.
Another passage in Hebrews says, “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14 – NIV) Again, live in peace, but we are also called to be holy. We are to make every effort to be holy.
What does it mean to be holy? To consecrate, sanctify, dedicate, to be set apart. Another definition says, “to purify internally by renewing of the soul.”[i]We become holy because we have God’s presence within us. But there must be effort on our part. We must make every effort to purify ourselves of sin. God will finish what we start.
The last two passages are from 2 Peter. I’ve mentioned the first one recently, so let’s be reminded of Peter’s words. “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.” (2 Peter 1:5-7 – NIV)
And then there is 2 Peter 3:14 (NIV). “So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this [a new heaven and a new earth], make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with him.” I believe we must put all of these verses into practice to find ourselves in this place. Spotless. Blameless. At peace with God. Make every effort. It is worth it.
Three little words, but so much work! Make every effort. Where do you feel you’re lacking effort? In what area have you become lazy? Why not make every effort today in all that you do?
God’s Spirit is there to help you. He will give you the strength when you are ready to give up. He will encourage you when you’re failing. He will lead you in the direction you need to go. Don’t overlook this powerful Assistant. He can make it seem effortless!
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna

[i]Strong, Exhaustive Concordance, G37.
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The Final Frontier?

August 6th, 2012 dsisler

Last night, the NASA rover, Curiosity, made a safe landing on the planet Mars. Images are beginning to stream back to mission control and so far, the mission has been successful.
I must admit, I’m a space nut. My life has been impacted by the space frontier and I have always enjoyed watching launches or landings of space craft. While there have been some failures in this pioneering field, there have been far more successes and advances.
Perhaps you remember where you were when you heard of the disasters of Challenger and Columbia. Maybe you have fond memories of the final Shuttle flight. Or what about the early space missions? The Mercury or Gemini projects. The Apollo missions and landing on the moon.
My most memorable moment was standing in the Atlantic Ocean at Daytona Beach and viewing a Shuttle launch from that spot. It was spectacular.
I also came within days of seeing the next to last Shuttle launch in Florida.
My husband knows how I am drawn to the sky and for our first anniversary I received a certificate for one share of a local aerospace company. It was the perfect gift for me.
I thought my granddaughter Joy was joining me on the excitement of space travel. She prepared for a space mission, she got settled into her seat, and blasted off into space. She must not have enjoyed it as much as I did. She never mentioned it again.

And I must admit, seeing the Hubble Telescope images brings joy to my heart. Knowing that God created the universe makes it even more special.

David knew how special the skies were as well. He wrote of it often. And although David was unable to see what we see from space today, he knew there was more out there. He knew God placed each planet and star in his sky. And David praised God for the heavens. Let’s see how David spoke of God’s creation.
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?” (Psalm 8:3-4 – NIV)
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” (Psalm 19:1 – NIV)
“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.” (Psalm 33:6 – NIV)
David speaks of God’s boundless love and faithfulness in two passages. “Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.” (Psalm 36:5 – NIV)
“For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.” (Psalm 57:1 – NIV)
And David couldn’t leave out God’s righteousness. “Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God, you who have done great things. Who, O God, is like you?” (Psalm 71:19 – NIV)
Psalm 103:11-12 (NIV) says, “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” If for no other reason, this verse creates excitement within me when scientists find that the universe is much larger than first thought. It simply tells me that God loves me more than I could ever imagine!
In the faith chapter of the Bible, the writer of Hebrews makes this statement. “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” (Hebrews 11:3 – NIV)
Yes, it is by faith that I believe God created all that I see and what I can’t see. God’s great universe and all of its intricacies shows that He is in control. That His plan was and is perfect, without flaw. And that our universe was not created by happenstance or by chance.
That big, open space out there was created by my Creator. By my faithful Father. By my brilliant God.
I’m thankful for space exploration for many reasons, but mainly because it proves to me how far in advance God was thinking. He knew mankind would have explored all of earth and would be itching for a new frontier. Perhaps he created the universe for that very purpose.
I wonder what else God has in store for us to explore?
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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The Best Seat

August 5th, 2012 dsisler

When we moved into our home seven years ago, it was the first in the second phase of our new sub-division. Our home sat away from all other homes or objects. Because our area was used for farming and mining, there are few trees. Even more so when we first moved in. It is a fairly sparse landscape.
On July 4th of that first year, we were able to walk around our home and view fireworks from cities and towns on the horizon. It was quite a show.
As the years have passed, houses have been built up around our home and some trees have grown. We are unable to view fireworks from far off cities, but the Tri-towns area is certainly able to pull off some wonderful celebrations with fireworks included.
The best part? These fireworks can be seen from my back yard!
Yesterday was the Carbon Valley Music Festival and the fireworks for this event are the best of year for us. The fireworks are set off in a field directly behind our home. Last night, I curled up on my swing and enjoyed the festivities.
I had the best seat in the house. My house.
There is an incident in the Bible where Jesus taught a lesson about the best seat in the house.
The mother of Zebedee’s sons had a little chat with Jesus. She took her two boys and went to the Master. She asked if her boys could sit on either side of Jesus in His kingdom.
Now let’s back it up. Can you imagine the dinner conversation the night before?
“Oh, James and John. You have worked so hard for Jesus. I think it is time for a promotion! Perhaps I’ll just have a little conversation with him to let him know that you two are his best options for these prominent roles in his kingdom. Yes, that is exactly what I will do.”
The thing is, she had James and John believing it!
She approached Jesus, asked her favor, and then Jesus turned to the boys and said, “You don’t know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” (Matthew 20:22 – NIV)
Then the boys answered, “We can.”
Jesus with all of His wisdom and knowledge probably shook His head a bit and maybe even let out a weak chuckle. He then turned to the boys again and made this prophecy.
“You will indeed drink from my cup, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father.” (Matthew 20:23 – NIV)
Jesus knew what their obedience in following Him would cost these young men. His role would be to prepare them for the upcoming events of their lives. He needed to make an impression upon them that would take their hearts and minds from this point to the moment they would be martyred. He used this teachable moment. He couldn’t waste any time.
Of course, the other disciples were indignant. They were annoyed. Perhaps with the mother and her sons, but maybe at themselves for not thinking of it first!
Jesus called them all together and spoke again. I believe He spoke with urgency, but I also believe with a pleading for them to understand what was about to take place. With His gentle words, Jesus wanted them to get it. This is what He said.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and 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 man.”(Matthew 20:26b-27 – NIV)
You see, having a servant attitude places us in the best seat in the house. Why? Because it is nearest to Jesus.
I have read this passage many times over the years, but to be honest, this is first time I really got it. My eyes are filled with tears. There is a lump in my throat. My heart gets it.
I pray that you get it too. That you’ll gain a better understanding of what it means to have the best seat in the house. Today I am truly thankful to be able to serve God and others. Are you?
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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50 Days and Counting

August 4th, 2012 dsisler

As dawn breaks this morning, it is 50 days and counting until my service trip to Southeast Asia. There is still so much to do and yes, I am still running out of time!
What I’m Doing
I applied for my passport and it is being processed. This was such an easy process and as of this morning, all is going well and it is on target to be returned in plenty of time for my trip.
I am studying up on the location, religious tendencies, and culture of the area. This is an interesting aspect of the trip. Learning about the cultures of Southeast Asia has been so exhilarating and fun. I can’t wait to see if what I’m learning is really the way it is.
I have sent letters, emails, and have had one-on-one conversations to raise awareness and support for my trip. I’ve learned from past experiences that this piece is so important. Communication with others is the key. If no one knows I’m going, how can I expect them to be of assistance? It has been so wonderful to connect with others and know they will be supporting me along the way. Thank you to those who have made commitments.
I have prayed, prayed, and prayed some more. God is taking me on a prayer journey for certain. My prayer time has blossomed into precious time with my heavenly Father. I am not willing to compromise in this area. Conversation with God keeps me motivated!
What is God Doing?
He is preparing me by reminding me of specific and relevant Scripture. I love God’s “living and active” Word (Hebrews 4:12 – NIV). I have adopted a section from the book of Colossians as my mission statement. It says, “Devote yourselves to prayer being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” (Colossians 4:2-4 – NIV)
He is preparing me by sending encouragement. I love 1 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (NIV). “May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.” God is encouraging me, but He is also sending encouragers my way. I am so thankful for the people who have excelled in this area.
He is preparing me by allowing my faith to grow. The financial support for this trip has not been completely raised. But I am still holding on to the fact that God has called me to do this. “The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” This phrase is found in two sections of Scripture. In 2 Kings 19:31 and Isaiah 9:7 (NIV). I believe God will come through.
He is preparing me by covering me with His peace. Jesus shared this thought with His disciples in John 14:27 (NIV). “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let our hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” I have God’s peace that “transcends all understanding”(Philippians 4:7 – NIV). How could I possibly do this otherwise?
What You Can Do
You can pray for me, the team, and the people of Southeast Asia. If you would like to receive prayer updates, please let me know. I’m working on setting up a system to share requests with others. I’d love to have you on my team of prayer warriors.
You can support my trip financially. I do need more funds in order to go on this trip, so if you have any desire to do so, please don’t hesitate and send your gift today. I would like to see this part of the journey complete so that I can concentrate on other areas that I feel are so important. I thank you in advance for your contribution.
You can trust that God is in control of this service trip. The same peace that covers me is available to you as well. You can be assured that God will accomplish great things through these 13 days in Southeast Asia. You can trust that He will finish what He started!
I wrote this blog post differently than I typically write. I made an outline and then went back to fill in with more detail. Maybe that’s the way God wants me to look at this service trip. Create the outline, but wait for Him to show up and fill in the details. I’m just a willing vessel. He is the Master.
Thank you for reading yet another blog post about this important vision for my life. I’m thankful you’re on the journey with me. Together, with God, we really can do remarkable things.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
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  • 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.

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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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