Simple Steps to Resist the Enemy

We all have those days... when the voice of the enemy rings loud in our ears and we're tempted to listen to his lies.  In this video, I share the simple steps I've learned to resist the enemy and silence his accusations.

Click here to download the printable scripture / quote cards!

Your Turn:

What steps do you take to resist the enemy?

When do you feel most vulnerable to his lies and how will you prepare yourself for battle?

Continue the conversation by sharing your comments below, or joining me on Facebook or Twitter!

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,
Psalm 119:28

Cathy

When Faith is STILL Under Construction

The battle of doubt is surfacing again. 

Maybe you know what I mean:  When we believe we’ve walked in obedience to the Lord, but don’t see the outcomes we expected.  When we wonder if we’re moving in the right direction. 

The doubt lives in moments when we ask ourselves,

“Why am I doing this?”  

“Is it worth it?”

“What if I never see the results I’ve prayed for?”

“Why is it so hard to press on toward to goal?”

These thoughts often make me consider quitting - of throwing in the towel and letting someone else do the difficult work of ministry.  Inside my head, I hear the thoughts of:

“No one reads this blog anyway.”

“What I do doesn’t make a difference.”

“I don’t have the talent to keep this up.”

You know the drill, don’t you?

I recently received encouragement to revisit some of my memorial stones. Some of you have heard me speak on the importance of creating physical reminders - memorial stones - that help us remember how the Lord has moved in our lives.  Those moments are all very significant. We’re strengthened to stand firm by walking down memory lane and stopping at each spiritual marker to recall what led us to where we now stand.  

I’m a scrapbooker from way back, so I dug through years of memories to find a particular moment that the Lord brought to mind.  I’ll share it here, as it was written in May of 2009:

In December 2008, while studying The Truth Project, I received a calling from the Lord into a writing ministry. I’ve wanted to write a book for what feels like my whole life, but never knew my topic or felt competent enough to do the work. I felt a familiar whisper in my heart and understood immediately that I’d received a calling to write and teach.  And yet… I doubted.

Beth Moore was to speak in Laramie, Wyoming where my friend, Tia lives, the following May. Tia served as a volunteer coordinator for the event and asked if I’d volunteer.  Of course, I said YES! and agreed to serve as an “encourager,” which is one who prays with those in need during a prayer time in the event. As an encourager, I was to receive a reserved seat at the event, very close to the stage. 

I began to specifically ask the Lord to confirm His word of instruction to me through Beth Moore. Perhaps it would be, I imagined, eye contact, or a touch on the shoulder or some other subtle sign from Him that I was to do this work of writing and teaching.  Beth often leaves the stage and walks through the audience, so I was hopeful for such a sign and, again, specifically prayed. 

On the morning of the conference, the volunteers met in front of the stage and several chatted about the event. One said, “I’ve seen her speak often and she’ll never leave THIS stage. It’s too high and there are no stairs…” 

I was disappointed. But knowing God as God, I continued to wait with expectation. 

Beth took the stage and within 15 seconds of her introduction, she said, “You’ll have to give me a minute. I need to come off this stage and greet all of you, but there are no stairs. I’ll have to go all the way around backstage and come out again, so just wait a minute. I’ll be right back.”  

My heart began to leap. Beth walked the aisles and stopped right in front of me. She was rambling on… something about southern hospitality and just wanting to know who your guests are… and she put her face IN my face. I’m not kidding; her nose was within 2 inches of mine!!  

“YES, Lord!” I said to myself. “I hear You. I receive my calling!”

The story still brings tears to my eyes, realizing the faithfulness of God and how He is so willing to answer our specific prayers and confirm His will for our lives.

This memorial stone helps me pursue my calling with faith - that is still, by the way, under construction. I recall the Lord’s involvement in my decision to write and I remember why I can’t quit until the He calls me home or changes my orders.  I’m in this for the duration, whether or not anyone reads or responds, because He has confirmed that I should.

I pray this story encourages you to stand firm and pursue the calling for which you've been called. You can do this - not in your own strength, but in God's. Remember, His strength is made perfect in our weakness and through Him, you can do things you never imagined.  Hang in there, friend, and I will too.  

"I do believe; help my unbelief.”

Mark 9:24 (NASB)

I press on toward the goal 

for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:14 (NASB)

Your Turn:

When has the Lord confirmed a calling in your life?

How is He asking you to step out in faith right now?

Continue the conversation by leaving a comment below, or joining me on Facebook or Twitter!

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

Conflict & Smelly Fish: 5 Helpful Steps to Navigate Disagreements

Few of us enjoy conflict. Personally, the thought of facing conflict can give me an upset stomach. Do you ever feel that way?

Dealing with disputes among friends, co-workers, family members, or others, can feel overwhelming.  Our minds can become so fixated on brewing strife that we think of little else. It can be a hefty distraction to say the least. If we’re not careful, we can allow conflict to steal our joy.

I know a select few people who have learned to manage conflict effectively. However the majority of us tend to hold to the wishful thinking that “if I ignore this problem, it will go away.”  Avoidance might be comfortable in the moment, but it is not the healthiest nor the most productive option. An alarming 25% of employees report that conflict avoidance resulted in sickness or absence from work. 1 When conflict arises at home, calling in sick is not an option.

There’s no doubt that facing conflict and working through issues is the better route.  My pastor often shares this analogy:  

Serving fish for dinner will lead to a particular aroma that can penetrate the whole house. At the conclusion of the meal, if we were to heap the scraps and leftovers into the garbage and let them sit overnight, the entire house would smell even worse the next morning!  We’d avoid that stinky situation at all costs and purposefully take out the trash right after dinner, wouldn’t we? 

So it should be when trouble brews in our relationships.  The longer we allow a problem to continue unaddressed, the smellier it will become. Our best solution is to “take out the trash!” Confront issues in love and in a timely manner to avoid smelly problems.  

The question is: HOW should we do it?  Please know that while I still handle conflict very poorly at times, I have learned some things that help me navigate a little more quickly and effectively.  I share these points, not with an attitude of accomplishment, but with the heart of a student who continues to learn and grow:

1) Realize that disagreements are a normal and healthy part of all relationships.  We can’t possibly agree on every point with every person. If we do, something’s out of whack.

2) Pray over the matter.  Ask God for wisdom that is pure, peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, and without hypocrisy (James 3:17)  Seek the Lord’s leading that both parties would agree with Him and His will for the situation.  If we independently seek the Lord’s plan and approach Him with moldable hearts ready to comply and obey, before we know it, we’ll also agree with each other.

3) Examine yourself carefully.  Maybe… just maybe, your opponent’s complaint has some truth to it.  Ask yourself (and also ask the Lord) what responsibility you have in the matter, what things need repentance, and how to make amends for any wrong you’ve caused.  I know - this isn’t easy and it can be a painful process, but it’s necessary.  As much as we hate to admit it, we’re not always right and we often make mistakes.  Let’s own up to them.

4) Move forward in humility and gentleness.  The Apostle Paul teaches that we should consider others more important than ourselves (Phil 2:3). He instructed Timothy to pursue peace and address opposition with patience and gentleness (2 Timothy 2:22-26).  When we present a defensive attitude, try to “win” an argument by justifying our actions, or belittle another in the name of unity, we’ve profoundly missed the mark.  Humility and gentleness will always earn greater favor than aggressive confrontation.  This does not mean neglecting to present our points, but doing so with grace and mercy. 

5) Consider the character of the other person when seeking to understand their words or actions.  This has been monumental in my marriage and I strive to apply it to relationships throughout my life. (I’m making progress.) If my husband hurts my feelings or causes emotional pain, I remind myself that he is my greatest ally. He is my God-given partner with whom I walk through life on a daily basis. From what I have learned about his character through more than 30 years of knowing each other, it is never his intent to cause harm.  Bringing that certainty to the front of my mind helps me gain a healthy perspective on a fresh disagreement. I can then gently let him know how I feel and ask him to clarify his point. More times than not, this helps us conclude a disagreement before it really begins. We can then navigate as partners and teammates rather than opponents. 

This is not a magic formula. It’s intended to offer a starting point that allows for positive progress.  Sadly, in some cases of conflict, the other party wants nothing to do with reconciliation and may refuse to take steps to move forward.  My advice in these situations: continue to pray for the relationship and the Lord’s healing. Then, wait on the Lord and His perfect timing.  Keep an open heart and maintain a willingness to move forward as the Lord prompts. 

There is only one person we can control in any given situation:  ourself. As long as it depends on us, we are to live at peace with others.  When we do what is right in the eyes of the Lord, He is sure to bless and honor our efforts as we glorify and honor Him.

Your Turn:

Would you rather avoid a conflict or navigate through it?

What is your most effective advice for overcoming conflict?

Continue the conversation by commenting below or join me on Facebook or Twitter!

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

1 http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/207196

27 Comforting Bible Verses

As follow up to my earlier post, “When a Friend Needs Comfort,” below is a list of 27 comforting Scripture verses.  Needless to say, there are far more than the 27 I’ve listed below, but these are some of my current favorites. They’re the words from God that I visit most often when my heart hurts.  They can offer comfort and consolation to a friend, and I pray that God’s Word will move in your heart as you review them.

1. Genesis 16:13 (NIV):  She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the One who sees me.”

2. Joshua 1:9 (NASB):  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

3. Psalm 30:5 (NASB):  For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.

4. Psalm 37:3-6 (NASB): Trust in the LORD and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart.   Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your judgment as the noonday. 

5. Psalm 46:1b (NIV):  God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

6. Psalm 91:4 (HCSB):  He will cover you with His feathers; you will take refuge under His wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield. 

7. Isaiah 41:10 (NASB):  'Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

8. Isaiah 43:1-3a (NIV):  But now, this is what the LORD says-- he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior

9. Isaiah 43:25 (NIV):  I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.

10. Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV):  It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

11. Lamentations 3:31-32 (NIV):  For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. 

12. Hosea 11:4 (NIV):  I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love. To them I was like one who lifts a little child to the cheek, and I bent down to feed them.

13. Matthew 11:29 (NASB):  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

14. John 14:1 (HCSB):  Your heart must not be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me. 

15. John 14:27 (HCSB):  Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful.

16. John 16:33 (ESV):  I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

17. Romans 15:13 (HCSB):  Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

18. 2 Corinthians 4:17 (HCSB):  For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory.

19. 2 Corinthians 5:5 (ESV):  He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.

20. 2 Corinthians 5:15 (HCSB):  And He died for all so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the One who died for them and was raised.

21. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (HCSB):  Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come.

22. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV):  But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

23. Philippians 4:13 (NIV):  I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

24. Ephesians 3:16 (HCSB):  I pray that He may grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power in the inner man through His Spirit 

25. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (NIV):  Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

26. 1 Peter 5:10 (NIV):  And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

27. Revelation 21:5 (HCSB):  Then the One seated on the throne said, "Look! I am making everything new." He also said, "Write, because these words are faithful and true."

These verses may spur you and others into deeper faith for we know that God’s Word does not return empty without accomplishing what He desires (Isaiah 45:11).  However, we must keep in mind that God created us for community - to rely on one another for comfort and blessing. 

We have the responsibility to take an active role in comforting those around us. There are people near us who are in desperate pain and we must not only preach the Word of comfort and pray the Word of comfort, we must also serve to personally offer comfort.  

I, for one, fail to do this well, but keep striving to reach out to those in need. It's only by the grace of God that I can serve Him as He directs.

Your Turn:

What scripture verses have you found most comforting?

In what ways have friends of loved ones offered personal comfort to you?

Continue the conversation by leaving a comment below or meeting me on Facebook or Twitter.

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

When a Friend Needs Comfort

When we receive news that a friend or loved one is facing a life-altering trial, our mind often goes blank. We feel numb. There’s nothing we can do. 

We have no idea what to say and so we say nothing at all.  

It’s said that silence is golden, but in times like this, our silence can speak volumes. It can leave those in pain wondering, 

“Why hasn’t she called?” or 

“I really thought she cared. Why has she turned her back on me?”

It’s not our intent to make others feel isolated.  We DO care. We simply have no idea how to offer comfort, which feels paralyzing. 

I’m in that very situation right now and I’ve had to push myself… hard… to reach out. I want to stay in my comfort zone, withdraw and pray in solitude, but instead I feel God’s prompting to act. 

A precious friend faces a life-threatening illness.  We’ve spent many years together in this friendship. I taught her to scrapbook. She taught me to crochet. In another era of our lives, we spent many wonderful weekends together sharing stories of our families, laughing, crying, and sorting out the mysteries of life. Our lives changed and our shared times melted away, but our friendship remains. I cherish her warm smile and gentle wisdom. I admire her tender strength and love the sound of her laugh.  

Right now, my friend faces a trial larger than she ever imagined. While I wallowed in my own heartbreak over the news, her sister whispered to me, “She needs you, Cathy.”  I believe she does. Not because I have anything to offer, but because we were created and designed for community. We need our friends in good times and bad. We need to know that others care and offer prayer on our behalf. We need to understand that we’re not alone.

And so, for the sake of my friend, I needed to stretch beyond myself and act. Sadly, I didn’t know what to do or where to start.

So I asked the Lord. After I prayed, I didn’t receive a telegram or audibly hear His voice of instruction, but a few ideas came to mind. I share them with you now to glorify God. I freely admit that I was as immobilized as most of us feel when seeing a friend in such pain. 

• Take a Tangible Step.  I began the process in my kitchen and made my world-famous pasta and a plate of cookies. (Who am I kidding? The pasta isn’t even famous in my own neighborhood, but it is a family favorite). I found that taking a tangible step readied me for deeper service. It’s said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. My first step was toward the stove. 

• Listen for God prompts.  With my mind fixed on my friend and her needs, the Lord gently prompted me. For instance, in the car one afternoon, I listened to a sermon on the radio. A pastor shared his testimony about when his wife faced cancer.  He explained that friends who listened much and spoke little often provided the deepest comfort. This was a message I needed to hear at the exact moment it aired. God often provides in such ways, doesn’t He?  I’m reminded that as I minister to my friend, He is with me.

• Ask for Direction. I prayed and specifically asked the Lord to give me words to speak. I also asked for help to hold my tongue when it was time to listen. I soon found that worship music brought words of love and encouragement. The songs reminded me why I hold such deep adoration for the Lord and what an honor it is to share His love with a friend.  Several Scriptures came to mind - many which have provided me with personal comfort and hope in times past.

• Consider a Gift.  Admittedly, gifts aren’t always the best option, but they can express love that is difficult to communicate. In this instance, I prepared to give my friend the gift of God’s Word, which contains more comfort than I could muster in a lifetime.  Now, giving a Bible to someone with the hope that they’ll read it is a bit unrealistic, so this is how I prepared: 

1. I’d recently received a beautiful Bible at a women’s conference. It’s one I cherish and refer to often, but I knew in an instant it was time to give it away. 
2. I highlighted several verses of comfort then flagged each one for easy reference. 
3. As I considered each verse, I found myself praying those words to the Lord on behalf of my friend.
4. When I presented her with the Bible, I explained what I had marked and the hope that she could find one verse each day to hold in her heart.  
5. I also explained that she could read other passages and the commentary for further inspiration and answers to some difficult questions.  

My friend and I enjoyed precious time talking and praying together. I believe she appreciated the food and feel that the gift touched her heart. I hope that I helped share her burden and offered comfort that would last beyond our visit.

I continue to pray and reach out to her by text message as often as the Lord prompts. I look forward to sharing her company again soon in the coming months and trust that it’s not me who provides comfort, but the Lord. 

Remember Your word to Your servant;

You have given me hope through it.

This is my comfort in my affliction:

Your promise has given me life.

Psalm 119:49-50 HCSB

Your Turn:

When have you felt frozen and immobile when a friend needed comfort?  

How did you step into action?

Continue the conversation by leaving a comment below or joining me on Facebook or Twitter.

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

Jump Start Your Prayer Life in 4 Simple Steps

Once upon a time, I considered myself a prayer warrior. That is, until I met a real prayer warrior - but we’ll save that story for another post.  My point here: I used to be very disciplined in prayer. I spent time before the throne of grace every day, if not several times a day, and made involvement in corporate prayer groups a high priority. I could pray Scripture without even thinking about it. I saw my prayers answered and believed, without a doubt, that when I listened for God’s nudges and promptings in prayer, He responded. 

That was then.  Now things are different. My prayer life is stalled and needs a jump start.

I am a firm believer in the power of prayer and it’s anointing, not to mention the peace, direction, counsel, discernment, and yes even joy that comes through prayer. I have seen first-hand the incredible comfort and other blessings of prayer, yet right now I’m really struggling in it. I’d love to tell you I don’t have time for prayer. But the truth is, we make time for that which is most important to us. We all have time for anything we’d like to do - if it’s a high enough priority. 

It’s not the amount of time that I have (I have exactly the same number of hours in a week as everyone else in the world), but it’s how I utilize that time. One thing I’ve learned about myself is that any time I have a change or even the smallest disruption in my schedule, my routines suffer. Even the simple act of rescheduling a weekly staff meeting from a morning to an afternoon will throw a wrench in my gears. I know - sad, but true. 

Over the years, I’ve experienced countless changes to my schedule as I’m sure you have too. I’ve noticed that with each change, my prayer life has suffered and little by little, my prayer routine has become nearly non-existent. I still shoot the “prayer arrows” heavenward - the short requests that come up during the day.  However, meaningful prayer is much more than that. It involves time of praising God for Who He is, thanking Him for all He provides and chooses to give, and confessing my daily sins to Him in order to stand in the Holy place cleansed and prepared for service. That’s the part of my prayer life that has diminished so terribly.

I need a jump start.  Perhaps you need a jump start too, and my hope is that this post will provide some very practical helps for both of us.  It’s time to take action. It’s time to establish a new routine and get back on our knees for some regular and intimate time with God Almighty.  

For the last two weeks, I’ve used some newly implemented tools which are helping me re-establish a pattern of prayer.  New practices and resources are often helpful. Here are 4 simple ways I’m jump starting my prayer life:

1. A new prayer journal. 

This is what mine looks like:

It’s a small 3-ring binder that I had on hand. (I used to keep my task list in this notebook until I switched to an electronic version (Nozbe) which I am completely nuts about.) I like the 3-ring binder because it allows me to add and rearranges pages as needed. 

Inside the binder are 11 dividers, labeled:

Praise

Thanks

Confession

Intercession

Monday

Tuesday 

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

On the divider for each day of the week, I have penciled in categories for which I’d like to pray on that day. 

Please hear me here. I pray as the Lord directs and intercede for whatever He places on my heart. If a friend asks me to pray for her grandma and I see that I’m not “scheduled” to pray for friends until Monday, I certainly do not let the schedule stop me from lifting up pressing needs.  The schedule merely helps me to not get “stuck” praying for only those needs I see and prompts me to pray for some “bigger picture” things. It’s a tool, not a law.

Here’s my proposed schedule:

Monday: Family, friends, relationships

Tuesday: My husband’s workplace, Strengthened by the Word Ministries

Wednesday: My church and church family

Thursday: The women I meet through ministry and women’s ministry needs

Friday: Our community, state and nation

Saturday: Pastors and Spiritual leaders

Sunday: Personal needs, preparation for the week ahead, strength, direction, creativity, integrity, etc. 

Each day, I jot down some of the things I’ve prayed for and how I believe the Lord is prompting.  This helps me remember what I’ve asked and to give thanks for His answers. Often we forget we’ve even prayed a thing and neglect to give Him glory when an answer arrives!

2) Write More.

When we write (on paper with a pen or pencil and not on an electronic device), it helps us slow down and focus on what we’re recording. I truly consider His attributes when I write them longhand. I feel more passionate about prayer needs when I’ve carefully scribed them into my notebook. Thoughts and needs are impressed more firmly on our minds and we’re less apt to forget if we’ve written it by hand.

This one of the primary reasons I’ve created this prayer journal as a notebook and not as a computer file. I find I’m more purposeful and less rushed with pen in hand. Plus, I get to change the color of my ink whenever I’d like - a small detail that keeps me in a happy place.

3) Speak More.

I’m attempting to create a habit of praying out loud - with my voice - even when I’m alone. I know, it sounds a little silly, but it keeps my to-do list from clouding my thoughts. Talking out loud to the Lord helps keep my mind focused on Him.

Once I’ve spent several minutes praising, thanking, confessing (okay - that stays silent most of the time) and interceding, my heart is fixed on the Lord and I can then close my mouth and listen. I have prepared my heart to receive any prompting He may choose to offer. For me, such promptings often come as creative thoughts, or fresh ideas that I know didn’t generate in my own mind. They’re usually the “best idea” I’ll have all day - for obvious reasons.

4) Pray With Others.

If you’re married, you should be spending time in prayer with your spouse. There’s little that says “I love you” more than hearing your husband (or your wife) petition the Lord on your behalf. Mike’s prayers are so soothing I sometimes fall asleep to them (he’s learned that they bring me great peace and doesn’t take offense).  

Mike didn’t always feel comfortable praying together. That’s something you may need to grow into as a couple, but I (we) highly recommend it. It’s worth the work and practice.

Our church has a weekly prayer service. Does yours?  Attend! I’m working to re-prioritize this weekly meeting and attend more faithfully. I love gathering with other believers to hear their hearts, praise the Lord alongside them, and receive their caring prayer coverage. 

Moms in Prayer is a wonderful ministry. There are groups for every age of child, including adults!

Oswald Chambers is credited with saying, “Prayer is an act of will.”  Once we’re well-established in the practice of prayer, it may begin to come more easily. Until then, it’s work. Let’s not neglect it since it’s commanded in Scripture. 

Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 (HCSB)

Your Turn:

What tools do you use to support your prayer ministry?

Have you ever experienced a stalled prayer life? How did you overcome?

Do you feel these 4 steps might be helpful to you?

Leave a comment below or continue the conversation on Facebook or Twitter.

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

When the Meadowlark Sings

Every early spring, their distinctive song lingers in my ears after a long winter of silence. My heart rejoices when the meadowlarks arrive.  

sketch © Oksana Hassel 2015

Their melody takes me back to dozens of mornings working side-by-side with my dad - putting up fence, building barns, or plowing the field.  I was a child, mind you, so my level of help was

“Cathy, hand me that hammer;” or

“Go get me some more nails, sweetie;” or

“Hold this board right here, as still as you can;” or

“You can sit right up here on my lap while I plow. 

Someday when you’re big enough to reach the pedals, 

you can drive the tractor.”

I don’t recall hearing the songbirds as a child, yet my heart remembers them well. Their music rekindles feelings of safety that came under a father’s watchful eye. I think back on his frequent guidance that everything works out for the best. When I hear them, I can almost feel my father’s warm embrace.

I’m amazed at the memories a song can stir. 

The tune of a meadowlark brings with it a sense of calm and comfort.  Although my earthly father passed away many years ago, my heavenly Father still reigns on high. I remain under His watchful eye and He tells me from His Word:  

Do not fear, for I am with you;Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. 

Isaiah 41:10

The lark’s warble reminds me that all is right in the world - because I remain under the watchful eye of the Lord. God is sovereign and has has victory over evil. I feel protected, safe, and loved.

To my surprise, the Lord has often used the flutelike song to quiet periods of stress and anxiety in my life. 

One particular day a few Novembers ago - long after the meadowlarks traditionally fly to warmer lands - I faced a difficult decision. I’d wrestled with options for weeks and prayed for the Lord’s direction. He seemed silent, yet the time to render my decision was at hand. I stated my position yet continued to feel unsure, not knowing if I’d made the right choice.  

As I left the gathering and stepped outside on that chilly November afternoon, I heard the comforting and familiar melody of the meadowlark. It’s unusual timing lifted my spirits more than normal and I felt it was a gift from the Lord. Peace washed over me. I felt a divine, shielding hug and knew in my heart that all was well.  

The call of the meadowlark has deep significance to me. I feel my Father’s warmth and embrace with every trill. When I hear it, I feel protected, safe, and loved.  

If you’re unfamiliar with the meadowlark, click here to listen to its glorious birdsong. 

YOUR TURN:

What “heavenly hugs” have you experienced?  

What made them most special to you?

Leave your comments below or join me on Facebook or Twitter! I look forward to hearing from you!

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

How to Find Joy in our Trials

This is arguably one of the most challenging verses in Scripture:

“Consider it great joy, my brothers, 

whenever you experience various trials”  

James 1:2 (HCSB)

After all, life hurts. Just this week I spoke with a woman who recently lost a loved one to a drug-related accident. Another friend is facing infertility and yet another learned that a nephew ran away from home. How do we find joy in trials like these?

Our women’s Sunday school class had our first discussion on James this past week.  The brother of Jesus hits us hard. He briefly introduces himself, then lets us have it with a powerful exhortation to find joy in our trials. Our class discussion was lively, and members shared thoughts on how to comply. Here are three great starting points that I pray might help us all as we face trials:

1) Remember God’s Character.   

When trials come, it keeps things in perspective when we remember:

God restores

He redeems

He protects

He defends

He delivers

He rescues

He helps

He guides

Remembering that God works for our good and His glory helps us see our trial through the lens of a heavenly perspective. I expect we will get through this trial, and when we get to the other side, our strength will increase, our witness will grow, and our testimony will have more power to impact others. Eventually, (as hard as it may be to imagine at this moment) we’ll see our life as better because of the trial that we faced. Clinging to truths about the character of God will help us find joy in our trials.

2) Play out the “What If’s”.

Fear is a great “squasher” of joy and we can allow ourselves to become paralyzed by worrying about the worst things that might happen.  We wonder, ‘What if ... ’ and consider that our life might very well be ruined by a particular trial we face. If we play out the worst-case scenarios and imagine what we believe is the most terrible thing that can happen, we begin to see that  - no matter what - God is still God. He is still with us.  He is still for us.  When tragedy strikes, we might go down hard. Perhaps we’ll be knocked off our feet. But the Lord will help us up. We can think of His character traits (see point one) and remember that we never walk through a trial alone. God is at our side and He equips us for all we’ll face, both now and in the future.  

Our trials/fears/worries often drive us to our knees. They cause us to seek God in deeper ways and when we seek Him with all our hearts, we will find Him. (Jeremiah 29:13) This is a great promise and an effective way to find joy in our trials. 

3) Express gratitude. 

A story that resonates came came from my friend, Kathy.  Read it here.  Kathy reminded me that if we show gratitude for what we have instead of moaning about what we do not have, wonderful things happen:  Our focus moves from ourselves to our Lord.  Our hearts are softened and joy comes quickly. When we’re thankful for what we have, God often responds with surprising generosity.  

Keeping a gratitude journal, or a simple list of things for which we are thankful, will keep our hearts and minds focused on the provision, kindness, and generosity of God. Even as we face trials, we can find joy in gratitude.

One of the things I’m grateful for today is the fragrance of fresh cut lilacs sitting on my desk.  When we look for blessing, we’ll find it. 

If our lives are so clouded with the burden of a trial that we can’t see the blessings, let’s ask God to open our eyes to see what He’s provided. He’ll respond in remarkable ways. 

Your Turn:

How have you found joy in trials?

After going through a trial, how did you later begin to see the resulting blessing?

Continue the conversation by leaving a comment below, or joining me on Twitter or Facebook!

Be Strengthened Today, by His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

Debunking 4 Myths About Forgiveness

If you’re anything like me, there are days when you feel like you have the forgiveness-thing down pat.  Perhaps someone causes you pain. You examine the situation and discern there was no ill-will or intent involved. It’s easy, then, to quickly forgive and leave the incident in the past.

Other times, when deep wounds are involved, forgiveness seems almost impossible and we realize how much work we have yet to do.  This might happen when…

• We’re physically harmed or assaulted
• Our children become victims
• We’ve experienced infidelity
• We’ve endured years of neglect from a family member
• Words cut to the quick 

I’m sure you have examples of your own.

What causes one person deep pain might seem superficial to someone else.  Forgiveness might come easily to one but feel like climbing Mount Everest to another. We all have different histories and different breaking points.  

Consider the following verses:  

Matthew 6:15 But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you

  

Forgiveness is a commandment.  Most of us desire to forgive, but over the years, we’ve developed inaccurate ideas about what it means to forgive. At times I’ve condemned myself for unforgiveness when that wasn’t what I carried at all.  Wrong thinking kept me imprisoned until I learned the truth.

Here are four myths about forgiveness that were most difficult to overcome: 

1) Granting forgiveness means I’ll never again remember the offense.

Forgiving is far different from forgetting. Looking at forgiveness as an accounting concept instead of one tied to memory and emotion, we’ll soon understand the separation between these two ideas.   

In Jeremiah 31:34 (Their sin I will remember no more) and Hebrews 10:17 (And their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more), God is using human language to illustrate a heavenly reality.  

Think of it this way: God knows everything. If He is truly omniscient (all knowing), then He cannot be taught. If He needed reminding about an offense that He forgot with His memory, He simply wouldn’t be the God of the Bible.  When His Word says He “remembers no more”, it means He will no longer take action against the offense.  As He judges sin and accounts for the wrongs in our life, His forgiveness blots them off the records. 

Forgiveness is a release from action toward an offense and the acknowledgement that the penalty or debt is paid in full.  It is not tied to the biological idea of memory.  This means that we may continue to feel pain, anger, or frustration over an offense. We may continue to bring the offense to mind. As we do, we can also remember that God has an eternal plan and a purpose and will work all things for our good and His glory. 

2) Granting forgiveness means acknowledging that what happened is okay.

Can God forgive a murder? Of course He can. Does that mean that murder is okay? Of course it does not!  Forgiveness doesn’t correct a wrong or imply that we’ve deemed an offense as acceptable. It does not provide permission to continue in ways that cause pain to others. 

Part of this misconception comes from how we learned to grant forgiveness as children.  When we were hurt or offended, our offender would say “I”m sorry.” We were taught to reply with, “It’s okay.”  At least that’s the way it was in our home.  Saying “It’s okay” carries strong implications that the offense itself is okay.

In contrast, others may have learned to instead say, “Will you forgive me” instead of (or in addition to) “I’m sorry.”  Replying with a positive response does not imply that the offense was okay, but grants forgiveness to the offender. There’s a significant difference. We’ve forgiven a person while still rejecting an offense.

Forgiveness doesn’t make an offense okay, it makes us okay. It sets us free from carrying a large burden and allows us to embrace God’s best.

3)  Granting forgiveness means we’ve fully reconciled the relationship.

Reconciliation can occur as a result of forgiveness but does not always come simultaneously with forgiveness.  We can decide to release penalty or debt for an offense but still need a great deal of work to achieve reconciliation.

In cases where threat of physical or emotional harm continues, reconciliation might never occur.  In these instances, some may judge an act as unforgiven, but the two activities (forgiveness and reconciliation) are separate from one another. 

4) Granting forgiveness means trust is re-established.

Forgiveness is granted. Trust is earned. As with reconciliation, trust may require years of work to rebuild. There are times when we (as the offended) have a willingness to restore trust and a we’re amenable to work toward that goal. Our offender, however, may not choose to put forth the effort. They may find contentment in the status quo. 

In these instances, it’s good to remember that the only hearts, minds and actions that we can change are our own. We continue to pray for those who hurt us and trust God will work out every detail in His perfect timing.

Misconceptions may convince us that we harbor unforgiveness when that’s not the case.  They are used as tools of the enemy to leave us feeling paralyzed and unable to move forward.  As God’s Word says, the Truth will set us free (John 8:32).

Your Turn:

Have you believed some of these same misconceptions about forgiveness?

What other misconceptions about forgiveness have you believed?

How did you overcome?  

What were the benefits of finding the truth?

Continue the conversation by leaving a comment below, or meet me on Facebook or Twitter!  

Be Strengthened Today, By His Word,

Psalm 119:28

Cathy

Faith Builders: From a First Responder

Today's Faith Builder post is from my dear friend, Debbie in Nebraska.  I trust her story will inspire you as much as it does me.

For approximately 10 years, his heart has wanted to serve others in emergency situations as a Volunteer Fire-Fighter and Emergency Medical Responder.  Throughout the years, he never knew the outcome of his selfless service.  The risks he had to take were worth it in order to help others.

Many people have been transported to area hospitals or coroners were called, and he was left with many unanswered questions after his duty was done.  On to the next call, always ready and willing to do whatever he could.

This Volunteer Fire-Fighter/Emergency Medical Responder is my husband, Charlie.  On October 28, 2014 after leaving a restaurant in a town 2 hours from our home, Charlie and I came upon a very serious car accident.  No emergency help had yet arrived.  Without hesitation he immediately stopped to help.

A young couple had been hit head on.  David, the husband, was out of the vehicle trying to help his wife, April, who was seriously injured.  Sticking his head into the car where April sat, Charlie introduced himself and assured her he was there to help.  He crawled into the car to stabilize her and ensure she stayed alert.  Within a few minutes help arrived.  He and the paramedics worked quickly and efficiently, side-by-side, ensuring she was stable enough to move to the ambulance.  Once April and David were loaded, Charlie walked slowly back to our car where I waited, praying without ceasing.  Our 2-hour drive home was full of conversation by him trying to figure out what happened and wondering if April would be OK.  Again, lots of unknowns.

The next day at work Charlie told a co-worker about the accident.  Days passed and we prayed and he wondered.  Once again, no closure for him.  When appointments took us back to that town, we would go through that intersection and wonder again.  Then one day his co-worker said, “My niece’s boss was in a really bad car accident.”  Yes, you guessed it - - it was the same accident.  Immediately, his co-worker called her niece and told her about Charlie.  When April found out a common friend knew Charlie, she asked if it would be OK to contact him.  This was definitely a blessing from God.  God had a plan that this time there would be closure for Charlie, as well as for April and David.  The three of them could answer questions for each other.

This week (18 weeks after the accident), a doctor’s appointment summoned us to that same town, just minutes from where April works.  Walking into her place of employment was exciting as he decided to surprise her.  When Charlie introduced himself, her face lit up with a huge smile and she screamed, ran to him and hugged him so tight.  She told everyone around her this is my hero, he saved me.  She touched his beard and said all she remembered was he had facial hair, told her he was there to help and she would be OK.  She called her husband and he came right over to meet us.  After talking through the events of that night, taking pictures, trading phone numbers and hugs, we vowed to stay in touch.  She said, “You are now family.”

Charlie has received many comments of gratitude from her friends and family including her dad and father-in-law.

April and David’s story is amazing how family, friends, and co-workers have stood by them.  She is recovering well, yet their life is forever changed.  So is ours, we have new friends who are amazing people.  Serving others brings great blessings to those who serve.

We never know how or when our acts of kindness and love will be needed, but God does.  He calls us when needed and wants us to service with all we have, even if we never know the outcome of our service.

I Peter 4:10     Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

Romans 8:28    And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.