Empty

July 26th, 2012 dsisler
Today begins a new chapter in my life. My oldest child, Philip is moving cross country for a job opportunity. While he hasn’t lived with or near me his entire adult life, he has been living with us for the past five years.

I get all the aspects and importance of this move, but in reality, it makes for a difficult day. We will miss him. His sisters will miss him. His niece and nephew will miss him. And he will miss us.

The good news? He’s moving close to where my entire family lives. He will be near aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. It really couldn’t get any better than that.
I ask that you join me today and tomorrow to pray for his safety as he drives across the central plains of this wonderful country of ours. Pray with me that his car has no mechanical issues. Pray that God will protect him each mile that he drives. After all, he is my baby.
Yes, I’m starting a new chapter in my life. One step closer to empty nestedness.
I’m sure God was feeling a bit like me in the very beginning. Genesis 1:2 (NIV) says, “Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.” What a description! It’s no wonder God wanted to create something of beauty.
Look at some of the terms. Formless. Empty. Darkness. Deep. For us, these terms might be related to how we are feeling emotionally. If we aren’t careful, we begin to feel this way when we encounter times of loneliness, depression, or change.
But remember, God didn’t want to remain in that situation. He chose to create something better. Something more splendid. Something more uplifting. He created the earth in all its glory.
God doesn’t want us to stay in a state of emptiness either. He would love to take your life and create something beautiful out of ruins. Beauty from ashes.
God wants to take away all of your hurt, your anguish, your pain. He wants to replace these feelings with joy, love, and grace.
I do love Isaiah 61. There is such hope in this chapter. If you are in this empty place today, pull your Bible out and read through it. Take it to heart. Learn how God wants to heal your brokenheartedness. How God wants to release the prisoner. How God wants to comfort the mourning. How God wants to replace the spirit of despair with a garment of praise.
This list could go on and on. It is the perfect passage for anyone that is hurting. God provides hope and promises that can take us from the depths of despair to the heights of favor. Don’t let another day go by without calling out to Him.
I’ve only experienced the empty nest feeling one time in my life for a few short months. All the kids were gone. It was just me and Mason. To keep from being bored, we went to book stores and looked for new material to read while drinking flavored coffees. We took short road trips in the evenings to see interesting parts of our state. We even went to the zoo to take pictures of all its inhabitants. We really were quite the pair.
I don’t see us reverting back to our old way of life any time soon. We really are content being at home together. And besides, my nest isn’t empty yet. But all too soon it will be. And that for certain will turn the page of yet another chapter in my life.
I’m truly thankful for all the people, friends, and family in my life. May God bless each of you with great abundance on this day and every day that lies ahead.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
Share

Jonah

July 25th, 2012 dsisler

I have been working through a Bible study on the book of Jonah by Priscilla Shirer. If you think you know the story of Jonah, I believe I could challenge you to learn more. Mrs. Shirer certainly has opened my eyes to several revelations throughout the study so far.
I am also impressed with God once again. This study has been preparing me for an upcoming experience. My Southeast Asia mission trip.
The idea of this Bible study is that Jonah’s life was interrupted and that our lives are interrupted as well. But what if we think of these interruptions as divine interventions? Times when God stops us in our tracks to share a vision with us? It changes our outlook on life.
In the beginning of this study, I thought it was a great way to look at Jonah. But then it got personal. Some of the questions stirred me. Some of the concepts intrigued me.
Then ten days ago, everything changed. I was called to action. And this study had been preparing me for that very moment. What a journey God is sharing with me.
From the example of Jonah being called and disobeying to the concept of God being the God of second chances, each section of this study has been preparing me to go. Make disciples. Baptize. Teach.
One revelation for me has been how evangelistic this book is. This week in our homework section, we compared the mission Jonah was given with the mission we, as Christians are given (Jonah 1:2; 3:2; Matthew 28:19-20).
Another revelation has been that God goes before the mission He gives us and how He prepares us for that mission. I believe I’ve been preparing for this mission trip my entire life. It is finally the moment when it is all falling into place. Into God’s timing. And He will do amazing things when I obey.
Another revelation was the importance placed upon praying Scripture. I’ve done this in the past, but Jonah showed me that sometimes it is all that is necessary. Praying God’s words back to Him. And that leads to the importance of Scripture memorization. If we don’t know it, we can’t recite it.
I want to close with a few quotes from the Jonah study. These are the lines that have made an impact on my life. Maybe you’ll find some relevance.
“Making sense of what God has asked or feeling compelled to cooperate cannot be the prerequisite for choosing obedience. His Word must be enough.”[i]
“The discipline God allowed was not meant to punish Jonah; it was meant to prepare him.”i
“Whatever you are holding on to in this life, hold it loosely so it won’t hurt when the Lord has to pry your fingers open to take it away.”i
“No prayer is more effective than the one that finds its roots in the pages of God’s Word. Jonah challenges us: Have we taken time to inscribe God’s Word on our hearts so we have a framework of verses to construct our prayers in the time of need?”i
“The word God is trying to do in you requires your full participation. You will find the rewards when you subscribe completely to what He asks and do the tasks how and where He asks.”i
“Sharing Jesus is supposed to be a way we live, not just something we do.”i
We still have a two sessions to go. I’m certain God isn’t finished with my lessons from Jonah. My desire is to be completely open to what He wants to teach me. I can’t wait.
I must admit, I’ve second guessed myself about the trip to Southeast Asia. I haven’t seen any real progress. I’ve been challenged by some. But it all comes down to the fact that I truly believe this is what God wants me to do.
Do you believe God is calling you to something? Maybe it is as simple as saying hello to your neighbor. Maybe it is to read the book of Jonah and work through a study on this small book of the Bible. Maybe it is to memorize more of God’s Word and add these verses to your payer life. Maybe it is to give your life completely to God…not just enough to make it look like you’re committed.
Maybe it is giving money for a mission trip. I am still seeking financial support for the work God has called me to do. If you are willing to help in any way, please let me know. You can read more about it at http://wwwpreachitclearly.blogspot.com.
Whatever it is God is calling you to, act upon it. Now.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna

[i]Priscilla Shirer, Jonah: Navigating a Life Interrupted, (Nashville: LifeWay Press, 2010) 29, 64, ChuckSwindoll – 73, 75, 93, 107.
Share

Bravery

July 24th, 2012 dsisler

Bravery. We’ve seen it throughout the year here in Colorado. Firefighters, police officers, first responders, even untrained individuals have proved to be brave during events our state has endured. It is because of bravery and quick response that many lives have been saved and rescued from the beginning of the wildfire season to the most recent movie theater attack.

I am thankful for these brave individuals who have put their own safety in jeopardy. Who are willing to do it all over again as needed. Who have stepped out of their normal sphere to show exceptional bravery. To these I express my gratitude.

Bravery, however, has been around since the beginning of time. If we were to look through God’s Word, we would see countless accounts of brave men and women who put their lives on the line for God’s Kingdom. Those who thought less of themselves and more of others.
There are some men in Scripture who are given the title of David’s Mighty Men. This group was undeniably the best of the best in David’s army. In 2 Samuel 23:24-39, 30 men are mentioned by name. In 1 Chronicles 11:26-47, an additional 16 names are listed.
However, there are three who are the bravest of the brave. These three men receive special honor in Scripture and are referred to as “The Three.” Josheb-Basshebeth, a Tahkemonite; Eleazar, son of Dodai the Ahohite; and Shammah, son of Agee the Hararite.
While there is mention of other chiefs and mighty men, these three seemed to be able to accomplish any task given by David.
They took their stand in a field against the Philistine army and won. They broke through the Philistine line to bring David water from the well near Bethlehem. They seemed to be fearless and brave in any situation.
But David knew the source of this bravery. It wasn’t by their own physical strength. It wasn’t by their own training. It wasn’t who they were or how they had been raised.
David shares this knowledge in his song of praise in 2 Samuel 22:2-4 (NIV).
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
from violent men you save me.
I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise,
and I am saved from my enemies.”
Yes, David knew that God was their source of bravery. David acknowledged that God was the true source of might for these men and his true Protector.
When we acknowledge that same fact, we too become brave in our day-to-day lives. It may not be what I’ve mentioned above, but it could be standing up for something that is right. Or sharing the Gospel with a person in need. Or even accepting the challenge of going on a mission trip.
Each of us must determine what bravery is in our own lives. Then we must acknowledge that God is the source of that bravery. With God, we can become the bravest of the brave for His Kingdom.
Bravery. It can be defined as having courageous endurance. Are you willing to be brave for God? How far are you willing to take that bravery? With God as the source of that bravery, I know the possibilities are endless.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
Share

Be Strong and Courageous

July 23rd, 2012 dsisler

On some days while sitting outside at my house, you’ll hear and then see a stunt pilot. The plane is close enough to see that he or she is flying upside down or sideways, performing barrel rolls, stalling the plane’s engine, or perhaps doing loops.
Each time I hear the plane, I stop whatever I’m doing and simply watch the expertise of this pilot in the sky. Sometimes the pilot will linger for 20 minutes or longer. Other times it’s a quick five minute show. Regardless of its length, the display is a welcome sight.
Like this stunt pilot, we are encouraged as Christians to live courageous lives.
We see in the Old Testament God’s heartening words to leaders of Israel. Over and over, God spoke these words. “Be strong and courageous.” Here is a list of where this phrase can be found. Deuteronomy 31:6, 31:7, 31:23; Joshua 1:7, 1:9, 1:18, 10:25; 1 Chronicles 22:13, 28:20; 2 Chronicles 32:7.
Jesus spoke similar words on one occasion. The disciples had headed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee when a storm picked up. And in the midst of water and wind, Jesus walked toward the boat.
The disciples thought Him to be a ghost, but Jesus then spoke. “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27; Mark 6:50 – NIV).
I believe it might have been difficult to take courage in that moment, but Jesus wanted the disciples to have great faith that would pull them toward courage. After all, these men would need a deep courage before the end of their lives.
Courage is mentioned several other times in the New Testament.
Jesus appeared to the Apostle Paul in Acts 23:11 (NIV). Jesus said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify in Rome.”
Likewise, Paul encouraged others to be courageous. In 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV), Paul tells the Corinthian Church to, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.”
Paul also encouraged the Philippians Christians with these words. “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” (Philippians 1:20 – NIV)
The author of the book of Hebrews says to hold on to our courage. “But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.” (Hebrews 3:6 – NIV)
In each of these passages, the recipient was called to an action. The action of being courageous. The ability to face any situation without fear.
These people were courageous. With God on their side, they had the ability to face their appointed tasks with undeniable courage.
You and I may not face great battles, raging storms, or persecution, but there are times where we must draw on this same courage.
Courage may simply be placing our trust into God’s hands and believing that He will bring us through whatever situation we might face. Maybe that is too simple, but I find that I can be more courageous if I live by these guidelines.
I don’t know who this pilot is and really don’t know how to find out. There are several small airstrips near my home and this pilot could be from any of them. I wish I could thank this pilot for the enjoyment I have received through the years. But until then, this is my “thank you.” Be strong and courageous. I think of you fondly.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna
Share

Cell Phone Evergreen Tree Wanna Be

July 22nd, 2012 dsisler

Cell phone towers are a necessity. We like the convenience of our cell phone lives. The ability to chat with someone while on the move.
When I worked for a local church, I called my mother on that 20 minute drive on many occasions. However, there was a “dead spot” about half way. I always wondered how that was possible. But it was possible. There were no cell phone towers in that location.
Wikipedia
I have seen a few cell phone towers that were meant to look like evergreen trees. Branches extend from the trunk with needles spread from the branches. These limbs would continue to the top of the “tree.”
The only problem is that cell phone towers need to be at least 40 feet tall. Much taller than a typical evergreen tree here in Colorado. Every disguised cell phone tower I have seen overshadowed the trees surrounding the tower.
My husband has been to Phoenix for job training on multiple occasions and has mentioned that their cell phone towers are camouflaged to look like palm trees.
These disguises didn’t allow the towers to blend in with the trees, but they do make the towers a bit more attractive.
Have you seen people in disguise? Trying to make people think they are something they’re not? Living a lie? I know we all have.
Jesus called this type of person a hypocrite. There are plenty of passages where Jesus speaks about being hypocritical. Here are just a few where Jesus calls those living deceitful lives out into the open. Matthew 6:2, 5, 16; Matthew 7:1-5; Matthew 15:7-9; Matthew 23:27-28; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 13:10-17.
God’s definition of hypocrisy can be found in Isaiah 29:13. Jesus repeats this message in Matthew 15:8 (NIV). “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”
That is where it all begins. Within the heart. The place that no one knows except God. We can fool others into thinking we are something we aren’t, but God will always call us out. He will not allow us to live our lives in this manner.
So how are we called to live? Authentic lives. Genuine lives. Honest lives. Trustworthy lives. Sincere lives. Holy lives.
James 1:22 (NIV) tells us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” In order to live a life worthy of God, we must do what Scripture tells us. Here are a few things Jesus spoke of.
According to Matthew 6:3-4, when we give to the needy, it should be done in secret. It will help to keep our hearts pure. Our motive for giving clean.
When we pray, Jesus says we are to do so in the privacy of our own homes (Matthew 6:6-13). Again for the very same reasons. God knows what we need before we begin to speak. But God wants to hear us call out to Him.
Jesus also mentions forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15) and fasting (Matthew 6:17-8) in this same section. All of this to show us how we can live authentically in our world and within God’s Kingdom.
I can’t help but throw some James into the mix. James 1:26-27 (NIV) says, “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
Our tongues will rat us out every time if our hearts are not in line with God’s teaching. If we allow our hearts to be polluted by the world, we will all short of living the holy lives God intends for us.
So my question would have to be, are you living like the cell phone evergreen tree wanna be? Or are you the real thing? I know we make mistakes. We all sin. But God is asking that we put aside the ways of this world to live for Him. It really is a matter of the heart.
I pray that you will seek God’s presence and ask for forgiveness of those things that are ugly to His sight. I pray that you’ll desire to live a more authentic Christian life where others can see Jesus through you. I pray that your motives for giving, praying and fasting would be in line with God’s.
God is patiently waiting for you to join Him on this journey. Don’t wait. Life God’s way is filled with abundance. You really do not want to miss out on any of it.
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 Jacksonville, Florida.

  • 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