It’s Raining, It’s Pouring

September 11th, 2013 dsisler

I have lived in Colorado for ten years now and I have to say this summer’s weather has me baffled. It hasn’t been normal. It hasn’t been usual. It’s been different and unique and perhaps what Colorado weather is supposed to be like. I don’t know.

 

What I do know is that the early summer weeks were gorgeous. Low 80’s and a little rain. It was perfect. Then in late August and early September our temperatures soared. It was blazing hot. Just last Friday we hit a high of 97°. That’s hot!

 

Now the weather has changed again. Mid to upper 70’s are in the forecast with high chances of rain each day. I think they may want to tweak their percentages. It has rained the past two days and it’s been pretty steady. And torrential in some places. Flash flooding advisories are posted for quite a bit of our state.

 

We have had some unique weather this summer, but I love how rain changes our perspective. When the first rain storm came through on Monday, I opened my office window and enjoyed the downpour. It lifted my spirit.

 

That’s exactly how it is when we allow God’s refreshing rain to pour over us. We receive a boost. Our spirits are lifted. We find the strength we need.

 

We find refreshment through different circumstances in our lives. In Acts 3:19 (NIV), Peter tells the crowd how to be refreshed. “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

 

Sometimes there is sin in our lives that keeps us from experiencing refreshment from God. Peter’s solution is to repent and turn to God. I think that’s a good solution.

 

We find refreshment through other believers. That simple word of encouragement can make all the difference to some people. Take a look at these passages to see how Paul was refreshed by others. Romans 15:32; 1 Corinthians 16:18; 2 Timothy 1:16; and Philemon 1:20.

 

We can be refreshment to others. We find in these passages that hearts were lifted by others. Refreshment was found because of what others did. We can be that same refreshment. 2 Corinthians 7:13; Philemon 1:7; and 2 Peter 1:13.

 

We know that refreshment is welcomed. Why not plan today to be refreshment? Get rid of the attitudes that scorch. Get rid of the words that burn. Bring joy and life to those you come in contact with. You may find great refreshment yourself in this little experiment.

 

But know this. The important piece of this refreshment project is that it must come from God. It must be His refreshment you offer to others. Remember that living water that the woman at the well asked Jesus for? That’s the refreshment others long for. That’s what has changed us. It’s what we have to offer.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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Transformers

September 10th, 2013 dsisler

My son Philip was an avid fan of the cartoon Transformers. I can still hear the music in my mind. Hear the voice and words of Optimus Prime. Sit in amazement of the change of these vehicles into something different and useful for the battle ahead.

 

He would play with his Transformers for hours. Changing them from an ordinary object into an extraordinary object. Over and over.

 

As women’s Bible studies have restarted all across the country, the word transform has been on my mind. The first chapter of the book I will lead this year speaks to transformation. Why do you suppose this word is so important for us as we study God’s Word?

 

Because if there is no transformation, change, “bettering of ourselves,” it is wasted time.

 

Maybe you’ve heard Lisa TerKeurst say this. “We need to be more than just Bible study girls.” There must be transformation as we read and study God’s Word. We must be changed. We must become more and more like Jesus.

 

Paul mentioned transformation to the Corinthian believers. “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 are transformed into God’s likeness, we reflect His glory. And notice that it’s an ongoing process. We are “being” transformed. That’s why continual Bible study is important. Through His own words, God will show us where we need transformation to take place.

 

Paul also mentioned transformation to the Roman believers.  “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 12:2 – NIV)

 

Renewed minds will move us closer to being the transformed people of God who are continually seeking God’s will for our lives. When our will is taken out of the equation, God is able to use us in mighty ways.

 

If you don’t believe me, just look at the lives of Joseph. Of Daniel. Of Mary or Joseph. Of Esther. Of Paul. These men and women allowed God’s will to permeate their lives and did what God asked of them. They were transformed by God’s Spirit and God was able to use them.

 

Maybe today you need to be transformed. Transformed from your former self into God’s glorious image. If that is the case, spend time with God. Allow Him to point you in the direction you need to move. Study His words. He will provide all that you need.

 

“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” (2 Peter 1:3 – NIV)

 

Perhaps you remember this line from the song for the cartoon Transformers. “More than meets the eye.” When we allow God to do His work in us, we too become more than meets the eye. We become spiritual warriors for our God. He is able to use us in ways we would never dream possible. Because by ourselves, it is impossible.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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“Holy Spirit” – Monday Musical Musings

September 9th, 2013 dsisler

It’s Monday! Oh what a glorious day! It’s finally cool! There is a crisp coolness to the breeze floating through my office window this morning. That fills my heart with excitement.

 

And yes, it’s back to work day, but I cannot wait to go. We had a fabulous Lord’s Day and I can’t wait to hear some of the stories to be told this morning. I pray that you are excited about being with God’s people yesterday as I was.

 

Monday also means I am able to share a wonderful tune with you! I’ve discovered just how difficult it is to only talk about music one day per week. I guess that means I’ll never run out of things to say.

 

Today’s piece is called “Holy Spirit.” In my early years as a Christian, I would have dismissed this song. I didn’t “experience” God’s Spirit working in my life and some of these lyrics would have been far too emotional for me to consider.

 

Oh how thankful I am that I’ve awakened to all that God’s Spirit is able to do within me. For without the Holy Spirit, I would still be a little hard-hearted. And God’s Word has plenty to say about being in that state (Acts 28:26-27; Ephesians 4:17-19; Hebrews 3:7-11; Hebrews 4:7).

 

God’s Spirit softens my heart to be a useable woman in God’s Kingdom. And that is exactly where God wants me to be.

 

So as you read through these lyrics and listen to this beautiful melody, allow God’s Spirit to work on your heart. What does He need to do to soften it today? Does bitterness need to be plucked out? Do hurt feelings need to be discarded? Do you harbor hatred for another? Do you feel like you’ve been discarded? Are there some small portions of your heart where sin dwells?

 

There is a much better way to live. God’s Holy Spirit will drive out all of that darkness and fill your soul with God’s glorious light. In His presence you will find freedom. Hope. Value. Release. Forgiveness. Grace.

 

“Holy Spirit”

 

There’s nothing worth more
That could ever come close
Nothing can compare
You’re our living Hope
Your presence Lord

 

I’ve tasted and seen
Of the sweetest of love
When my heart becomes free
And my shame is undone
Your presence Lord

 

Chorus
Holy Spirit You are welcome here
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere
Your glory God is what our hearts long for
To be overcome by Your presence Lord

 

Bridge
Let us become more aware of Your presence
Let us experience the glory of Your goodness[i]

 

Click here to listen to a version of this song by a local worship team in Arvada, Colorado.

 

I pray that today you will open your heart to the fullness of God’s presence and allow His Spirit to do His work on your heart. You will never regret it.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna
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[i] Holy Spirit, ©Bryan and Katie Torwalt 2011, Jesus Culture, Worship Team from Faith Bible Chapel in Arvada, CO, Music produced by David Anderson.

 

 

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It’s a Sunshiny Day!

September 8th, 2013 dsisler

I was reminded of this Brady Bunch song this week and it’s been stuck in my head since then. But it says it like it is. It’s a great day. The sun is shining. It’s the Lord’s Day and time to worship Him.

 

It’s also our last hot day of summer. That’s what the meteorologist said last night and I’m going to hold him to it! From now on it’s supposed to be much cooler and more seasonal. I certainly am ready for it.

 

I’m feeling better…still have a little congestion and cough on occasion, but feel so much better than I did yesterday. Thanks for all those prayers!

 

Today I’d like to share a post about a camera, an Irish gal, our conversation on photography, and how it relates to our relationship with God. I pray that you’ll find some encouragement through this piece.

 

On Photography

 

On the final leg of my journey from SE Asia to Denver, I sat next to an interesting gal that I became acquainted with. She lives in Australia at the moment, but was raised in Ireland and has lived all over the world. She was going to visit friends in Boulder for three weeks where she hoped to get a little respite from caring for a seriously ill friend.

 

Moira had the window seat, but as we passed over the first mountain range, she urged me to look. The view was stunning. I pulled out my camera and took a shot of the scene. As the trip continued, Moira and I spoke on many topics and as we passed over interesting topography, she would encourage me to look. Of course, the photographer in me continued to take shots.

 

At one point, I asked if she had a camera to take a photo or two. And she answered with an interesting comment. “I have given up on cameras and rely only on my eye and my memory for scenes. In the past when I took pictures I was always disappointed. They were never as beautiful as the real thing.”

 

I had mixed feelings about this comment. Yes, in years past, I’ve had some pretty lousy cameras and the shots taken with those were truly unacceptable. I believe some might even accuse me of purchasing a “cheap” camera.

 

But I also know that with my husband’s professional cameras and lenses, he can take some pretty great shots. They may not be 100% as beautiful as the original scene, but they are pretty close.

 

I would have to say it is the quality of the camera that makes the difference.

 

So here are a few thoughts from my two-hour journey with Moira.

 

If we rely on a “cheap” relationship with God, we will be disappointed. Not because God didn’t keep His promises or His end of the bargain, but because you didn’t do your part. God wants 100% of you. Not just the pieces and parts you want to give Him. The places and areas that are least important to you, so they are easy to give Him. No, He wants it all. And that means even the hard parts. The places of your heart that you aren’t quite ready to hand over. He wants them, too.

 

By “upgrading” our relationship with God, we can guarantee fulfillment. Complete beauty. In John 10:10b (NIV), Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” God wants us to have full lives and that is only achieved by giving 100% of ourselves to Jesus. You will never regret having done so.

 

And I believe the last thing I learned from Moira’s statement is that we will always have a better understanding of something when we see it, read it, believe it for ourselves. When we rely on someone else for our understanding of Scripture, it will never be as beautiful as when we study it for ourselves. Our own spiritual “eyes” will allow us to see God’s perfect, complete beauty as we spend time with Him.

 

Moira has gone back to Australia to care for her friend. I would ask for prayers for this dear care-giver. Her desire to help a friend in need is indeed inspiring. Please pray for strength, comfort, and peace for Moira.

 

I would also ask for prayers for her friend. I’ve managed to forget her name, but God knows who she is. Please pray the same things for Moira’s friend. Strength, comfort, and peace. And if it would glorify God, that she might be healed of this horrible disease.

 

How are your spiritual eyes? Are they focused on God? Is He blurred due to your lack of attention? If so, why not take this opportunity to “upgrade” your relationship with Him. Let Him show you the sights in His Word. Let Him guide you to a better understanding of full life. Don’t miss it! It’s beautiful!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

 

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Misery

September 7th, 2013 dsisler

The cold I spoke of yesterday has turned into a miserable head cold, combined with seasonal allergies. I did paint my office yesterday (so happy that’s done), but I fell asleep as soon as I got home and have slept off and on since then.

 

So today, I ask that you accept my apology for not writing any more than this. Between the headache, the pressure in my sinuses, and the fever, I know this is about all that I can pull out of this brain.

 

I offer this benediction and may it encourage you today. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26 – ESV)

 

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 Jacksonville, Florida.

  • 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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