Be Encouraged

Do you ever ask yourself, "What can I do for others during these unsettling days?" How about ENCOURAGE. Scotty Smith's 1-16-21 Heavenward "More Than A Peaceful Easy Feeling" devotional helped me this morning. So I pass a few of his words on to you: "Today, we use familiar words to direct our hearts heavenward and neighbor-ward. Known as the “Serenity Prayer,” it’s really a Gospel Prayer—a prayer of grace, perspective, and peace. “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.” – Lord Jesus, acceptance of things (and people) we can’t change isn’t acquiescence; it’s wisdom and freedom. It’s not shrugging our shoulders in resignation; it’s lifting our hands to you in worship and waiting."" Check out the rest of Scotty's thoughts and take a look at John 16:33 for Jesus' words of encouragement. BE ENCOURAGED! (from my 1-16-21 Facebook post)

Waiting...

These are Scotty Smith's timely words that describe me to a "T". Spirit-Groaning and Trust-Filled Waiting SCOTTY SMITH “We who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly…” Rom. 8:32 Lord Jesus, we live with a relentless ache for peace. In the past several months, this ache has been fertilized with the “messes” in this world and the Spirit of hope. As Paul said, we “groan eagerly.”

UNENDING AWE AND WONDER

Gini Walker December 7, 2016 Meditating on the essence of GOD --- During this Advent season of 2016, I attempted to describe the essence of GOD. Here is what I wrote in my gratitude journal: YOU - YHWH Exceedingly, abundantly beyond beyond x a zillion --- and this doesn't begin to describe your essence - INFINITY - no beginning and no end. As a writer, I often experience frustration with words - those times when I can't find the ones I want, as I search in my "word box"... my thesaurus helps me in those times... but not now. And, I am so glad! I will NEVER find the words to describe the awe and wonder and majesty of GOD. He knew before time began on this planet that I would (in stumbling, incorrect grammar and sentence structure) write this...HE knew every sinful thought and action of my life. Yet, HE came as a baby, lived sinless and died in my place to restore me to this essence of love I can't describe. I am totally astounded. ❤

A Saint Changing His Address

On early Sunday morning, January 10, 2021 Mr. Per Larssen changed his address from earth to heaven. God called him home and what joy for Per to be in the presence of our Lord Jesus. I try to imagine this but it is hard. I think about scripture that speaks of being present with HIM. Per, we will miss you. You were a gentle, gentleman. I loved your Norwegian accent. Thank you for being a great friend to Charlie. He loved you dearly. You will be missed. Charlie and Gini

Family of Faith

Thank you ABBA FATHER, for brothers and sisters in my family of faith who speak the truth of Your Holy Word to encourage, remind and direct me to YOU. Amen

Epiphany

Christian celebration of the Wise Men, after following the Star, finding Jesus. 12th day of Christmas. Light of Light, King of Kings. On this day in history of America and all of our strife, LORD Jesus, help me to remember your coming in history and your return in the future. HALLELUJAH!

2020 the year to forget

Scotty Smith writes daily devotional blogs. The following is part of his December 28 blog and it certainly fits this year: Indeed, your last words from the cross, “It is finished!” are our forever words of peace. Our lives are now hidden in you, rooted in your love, and enveloped in your grace—riches beyond calculation. Dear Lord Jesus, help us to remember your work on the cross and experience your redemption EVERY DAY as we move forward into 2021.