Life can chew you up and spit you out. Just when you think you're getting ahead, life comes to knock you back down to size. One morning you can awaken feeling on top of the world and the next you can barely get out of bed; the weight of the world has plopped itself onto your unsuspecting chest.
Jesus warned us of this very conundrum. "In this world you will have trouble..." He knew more than any other human being that life was going to get messy, uncomfortable, and be downright unfair. He knew we would face attacks from every angle and at times we would feel like throwing in the towel. But it's not about the challenges and roadblocks we face; it's all about how we react to them. When we hit an obstacle, do we lie down in surrender and defeat or gather the strength to stand up, dust ourselves off, and continue the fight?
The Savior of the world continued, "...but take heart, for I have overcome the world." This tangible existence we call "life" is just a vapor when compared to the eternal timeline being laid out before us. These potholes and flat tires constantly popping up in our lives are merely bumps in the road when we keep our thoughts right and perspectives pure.
Life is all about perspective; either the glass is half empty or half full. You awakened today, so consider that a step in the right direction. Sure those days will come when getting out of bed seems like the worst option, but we can face them knowing that this life is just the beginning. All of the hassles in our lives that seem so monumental right now will one day be a faint blip on the radar.
The most important thing to remember is that this day is a gift, no matter what comes. Focus on living in the present moment, instead of fretting about the future or mulling over the past. Entire lives are wasted stressing about things that cannot be changed and wishing for things that may never be achieved. The easiest way to lift the weight off our chests is to do the very best we can with each day we are given and leave the rest up to the God who gave it to us. Remember - He has already overcome everything we will ever face.
Standing Tall,
Katie Marie
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
Sunday, January 1, 2017
2017 - THE GREAT UNKNOWN
Today is the awakening of a brand new year - a clean
slate, a fresh start. Each new year can bring with it so much hope of what is
to come; it can also usher in anxiety and concern considering the vast
mysteries that await.
I can't help but wonder what the upcoming year truly
holds when placed in God's hands, lined up with His perfect Will. If I allow
myself to peek too far into the future, anxiety and fear can quickly sweep over
me. I can't allow that. Jesus is my everything; He is the director of my
steps. Though I have no idea what this season of life will bring, I do know the
One who does.
While pondering the possibilities of several
unknowns, along with so many more I don't even realize, I am quickly reminded
how much I need my Jesus. I look all around me and all I see is
change...shifting sands and a chasm of possibilities. But when I look to Him, I
see the Rock - the unchanging, unwavering foundation upon which I have built my
life; and again I am at peace. In Christ alone I find consistency, reassurance,
and perfect Love. He is the one constant in my life and I am forever grateful
for that. Jesus truly is my all in all.
I decided this coming year I will not look to
the wind and waves in my life. Instead, I will look to my King; my unshakable
God. I will meditate on His goodness and surround myself with His mercies. I
will spread His love everywhere I go, expecting nothing in return (though it
will be hard at times). I will remember that Jesus is my source and supply, finding
my security, confidence, and stability in Him alone.
With each new year that passes, I realize more and
more that the great unknowns of the future are no mystery to my Creator. He saw
the end before it began; He knows my story in and out. He knows how everything
works out, and in the end, we win. This time, I am choosing not to worry
about the plot twists and turns. They are simply subplots interwoven into God's
Divine designs. Though the long, winding path of a new year stares boldly
back at me, I am taking my first steps of 2017 with my head held high, knowing
I am never alone. In fact, I am taking up company with the King of all Kings
and the Potter of my days. Will you join us on the journey?
Confident in Him,
Katie Marie
Thursday, June 30, 2016
MONUMENTAL LIFE UPDATE!!! / LOST AND FOUND
My incredible friends,
I know it has been many, many months since I've blogged, but I have good reason and amazing news! May 18, 2015, God brought the Prince Charming He fashioned just for me into my life! Within the first 5 nights talking on the phone, David and I knew that this was IT. We didn't get to physically meet until June 14, 2015, when I flew down to Louisville to see him for the first time. He picked me up at the airport and proposed to me within 40 minutes. We were married just 19 days later at the end of a private pier overlooking Lake Michigan. I married the love of my life right in my Jesus Spot where I had spent years pouring my heart and prayers out. God is beyond faithful! Now, some may think that is a fast courtship, but when you KNOW God is in it and you've waited over 30 years, it's far from fast. In just 3 short days we will be celebrating our one year anniversary on July 3, 2016. Wow, how a year flies! If I filled you in on all of the other miraculous things Jesus has done over this last year, I would be writing for days and you would be reading for days. Instead, let's just agree that the Lord of All is beyond incredible and move on. :)
Well, today was an interesting one, to say the least. I spent the better half of 3 hours this morning searching for one of my favorite pairs of earrings. They were given to me a few years ago by a friend who didn't want them anymore, so I suppose you could say they didn't have much monetary significance. However, I cherished them and wore them often. In fact, I wore them all day yesterday until I, at some point, took them off and put them who knows where...which leads me back to our story. Let me tell you, racking my brain for 3 hours, searching in literally every nook and cranny of my home, and retracing my steps over the last 32 hours can give quite a headache and flurry of frustration. My quest hit rock bottom as I searched to the bottom of the kitchen garbage where the rotten pineapple was just waiting for me. Yuck. It was at that sticky point that the Lord spoke clearly to me and led me away to journal about the situation.
Truly, for about 2/3 of my search, it was becoming apparent that God was leading me to draw a parallel between my hot pursuit of this mystery jewelry and my relationship with Jesus. It became perfectly clear how worthless it was to pour all of my energy and mental focus into such a frivolous thing. As I journaled, I began pondering whether I was pursuing that trinket more than the Lover of my soul. Trust me - it was quite a gut check. I asked myself, "Will you stop at nothing to discover the deepest parts of your Savior's heart? Do you relentlessly pursue His presence above all else?"
Perhaps God allowed me to misplace those earrings today to magnify the quality of my pursuit of Him. He may have even made them vanish just to make me realize how quick I am to drop everything in my day to search for something of such little significance. It quickly becomes far too easy to be busy and focused on other things instead of running after Jesus at the pace He deserves. Right there, I was reminded again what a flawed human I am. Still, He loves me. I fail Him in a thousand ways I am aware of, and a million more I don't even realize. And yet, He adores me.
I could beat myself up for days over the way I chased after a worthless trinket more than I pursued my God the first hours of this day, but all He asks is that I stop, breathe, turn, and run to Him. His grace is forever abounding and His mercies are new every morning. That tells me that His perfect mercy has already covered my shortcomings of this very morning.
Through this story, I am reminded of my humanity, but I am also reminded that in Christ there is no condemnation. The more I punish myself, the less able I am to come and be loved and nourished by the true Source of joy, love, and satisfaction.
I thank Jesus for loving me through my humanity; for loving me because of my humanity. I thank Him for showing me my endless flaws; without them, I could easily forget that I am desperately in need of my Savior. I thank Him for showing me that He is more than enough.
My heart is now at peace, knowing that even if I never find those favorite earrings again, I have already won. I have Him - all day, everyday. I don't have to work my brain into a pretzel, trying to recall where I left Him or how I could have misplaced my most precious Gift. Best of all, Jesus doesn't require me to scavenge through rotten banana, orange, and pineapple skins to find Him (though He is more than worth that). I am thankful, though, that once in a while He allows me to misplace something precious in my world to remind me how much more priceless His constant companionship is to me. His love for me is far more valuable than silver or gold. His Presence is infinitely more extravagant than the most beautiful diamond He has created. I pray Jesus continues to teach me how to pursue Him more than anything else in my life...because I know that having Him, I have it all.
In His Awesome Love,
Katie Marie
I know it has been many, many months since I've blogged, but I have good reason and amazing news! May 18, 2015, God brought the Prince Charming He fashioned just for me into my life! Within the first 5 nights talking on the phone, David and I knew that this was IT. We didn't get to physically meet until June 14, 2015, when I flew down to Louisville to see him for the first time. He picked me up at the airport and proposed to me within 40 minutes. We were married just 19 days later at the end of a private pier overlooking Lake Michigan. I married the love of my life right in my Jesus Spot where I had spent years pouring my heart and prayers out. God is beyond faithful! Now, some may think that is a fast courtship, but when you KNOW God is in it and you've waited over 30 years, it's far from fast. In just 3 short days we will be celebrating our one year anniversary on July 3, 2016. Wow, how a year flies! If I filled you in on all of the other miraculous things Jesus has done over this last year, I would be writing for days and you would be reading for days. Instead, let's just agree that the Lord of All is beyond incredible and move on. :)
Well, today was an interesting one, to say the least. I spent the better half of 3 hours this morning searching for one of my favorite pairs of earrings. They were given to me a few years ago by a friend who didn't want them anymore, so I suppose you could say they didn't have much monetary significance. However, I cherished them and wore them often. In fact, I wore them all day yesterday until I, at some point, took them off and put them who knows where...which leads me back to our story. Let me tell you, racking my brain for 3 hours, searching in literally every nook and cranny of my home, and retracing my steps over the last 32 hours can give quite a headache and flurry of frustration. My quest hit rock bottom as I searched to the bottom of the kitchen garbage where the rotten pineapple was just waiting for me. Yuck. It was at that sticky point that the Lord spoke clearly to me and led me away to journal about the situation.
Truly, for about 2/3 of my search, it was becoming apparent that God was leading me to draw a parallel between my hot pursuit of this mystery jewelry and my relationship with Jesus. It became perfectly clear how worthless it was to pour all of my energy and mental focus into such a frivolous thing. As I journaled, I began pondering whether I was pursuing that trinket more than the Lover of my soul. Trust me - it was quite a gut check. I asked myself, "Will you stop at nothing to discover the deepest parts of your Savior's heart? Do you relentlessly pursue His presence above all else?"
Perhaps God allowed me to misplace those earrings today to magnify the quality of my pursuit of Him. He may have even made them vanish just to make me realize how quick I am to drop everything in my day to search for something of such little significance. It quickly becomes far too easy to be busy and focused on other things instead of running after Jesus at the pace He deserves. Right there, I was reminded again what a flawed human I am. Still, He loves me. I fail Him in a thousand ways I am aware of, and a million more I don't even realize. And yet, He adores me.
I could beat myself up for days over the way I chased after a worthless trinket more than I pursued my God the first hours of this day, but all He asks is that I stop, breathe, turn, and run to Him. His grace is forever abounding and His mercies are new every morning. That tells me that His perfect mercy has already covered my shortcomings of this very morning.
Through this story, I am reminded of my humanity, but I am also reminded that in Christ there is no condemnation. The more I punish myself, the less able I am to come and be loved and nourished by the true Source of joy, love, and satisfaction.
I thank Jesus for loving me through my humanity; for loving me because of my humanity. I thank Him for showing me my endless flaws; without them, I could easily forget that I am desperately in need of my Savior. I thank Him for showing me that He is more than enough.
My heart is now at peace, knowing that even if I never find those favorite earrings again, I have already won. I have Him - all day, everyday. I don't have to work my brain into a pretzel, trying to recall where I left Him or how I could have misplaced my most precious Gift. Best of all, Jesus doesn't require me to scavenge through rotten banana, orange, and pineapple skins to find Him (though He is more than worth that). I am thankful, though, that once in a while He allows me to misplace something precious in my world to remind me how much more priceless His constant companionship is to me. His love for me is far more valuable than silver or gold. His Presence is infinitely more extravagant than the most beautiful diamond He has created. I pray Jesus continues to teach me how to pursue Him more than anything else in my life...because I know that having Him, I have it all.
In His Awesome Love,
Katie Marie
Friday, September 25, 2015
WHO ARE WE?
Friends,
In a world so full of distraction and chaos, who better to focus and pour all our attention upon than the very God who wove us together in our mother's wombs and even cares about every intricate detail of our daily lives? The realization of it is far too weighty to grasp. After all, who are we that God would be mindful of us? We are the children of the Light and the walking expression of Christ's love...that's who❤️
In a world so full of distraction and chaos, who better to focus and pour all our attention upon than the very God who wove us together in our mother's wombs and even cares about every intricate detail of our daily lives? The realization of it is far too weighty to grasp. After all, who are we that God would be mindful of us? We are the children of the Light and the walking expression of Christ's love...that's who❤️
"You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, oh Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it." Psalm 139:2-6 ESV
Woven and Spun,
Katie Marie
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
TAKE A BREATH ❤️
Child of the Most High,
When was the last time you took a moment to breathe in God's beauty and soak up His creative perfection? Even if you only have a single minute today, consciously stop and allow God's breath to invigorate your lungs. Feel your heart beat and realize that you are the TREASURE of all treasures to your Divine Creator. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. As beautiful and intricate as a flower is, all of the flowers covering the earth cannot compare to the awesomeness that is YOU ❤️
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. (Psalms 139:13-16 NLT)
When was the last time you took a moment to breathe in God's beauty and soak up His creative perfection? Even if you only have a single minute today, consciously stop and allow God's breath to invigorate your lungs. Feel your heart beat and realize that you are the TREASURE of all treasures to your Divine Creator. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. As beautiful and intricate as a flower is, all of the flowers covering the earth cannot compare to the awesomeness that is YOU ❤️
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. (Psalms 139:13-16 NLT)
In Awe and Wonder,
Katie Marie
Thursday, May 14, 2015
TRUE LOVE
Dear Friend~
What if there were a love that was limitless, full of passion, and without end? What if this love could fulfill every desire within you and make you feel you can do anything? What if it were accessible any time of day, no matter where you are? In fact, what if it weren't just available to you, but actually sought you out, offering all it had? Have you dreamed of a love so perfect that it continues long after you have messed up? Have you been searching high and low for a love that truly satisfies?
This love won't be found in a new job, new house, or new spouse. No, this is a love that can be compared with no other. It won't be satisfied through likes on Facebook or Twitter retweets. It's a once in a lifetime love, and once you've tasted of it, you'll be changed forever. It'll shake you to the core and make you live to pour that love upon everyone around you, even the most unlovable characters in your path. Friend, if you've been searching all your life for true love, I'm here to tell you, it has been found. May I introduce to you: the matchless love of Christ…
In His Grip,
Katie Marie
What if there were a love that was limitless, full of passion, and without end? What if this love could fulfill every desire within you and make you feel you can do anything? What if it were accessible any time of day, no matter where you are? In fact, what if it weren't just available to you, but actually sought you out, offering all it had? Have you dreamed of a love so perfect that it continues long after you have messed up? Have you been searching high and low for a love that truly satisfies?
This love won't be found in a new job, new house, or new spouse. No, this is a love that can be compared with no other. It won't be satisfied through likes on Facebook or Twitter retweets. It's a once in a lifetime love, and once you've tasted of it, you'll be changed forever. It'll shake you to the core and make you live to pour that love upon everyone around you, even the most unlovable characters in your path. Friend, if you've been searching all your life for true love, I'm here to tell you, it has been found. May I introduce to you: the matchless love of Christ…
In His Grip,
Katie Marie
Friday, May 8, 2015
MORE OF YOU...
Jesus, all I want is more, more, MORE of You. This world is tasteless without Your spice. It is gray without Your color and lifeless without Your spark. To pull You out of the scene means a life devoid of all meaning. Help us to find You in the in-betweens of life ❤️
Surrendered,
Katie Marie
Surrendered,
Katie Marie
Monday, May 4, 2015
REBIRTH
Spring is an enchanting season of rebirth and renewal. It's a time when the barren winter trees are once again covered with the vibrant green of their lush leaves and budding flowers.
This season always reminds me of the redemption God longs to bring to each of our lives. Whether you're suffering the loss of a relationship, a long-standing career, or perhaps even a loved one, Jesus yearns to rebuild each of the barren places of your life. He desires to bring you into a season of restoration, bursting with His goodness and grace.
I encourage you to approach this season of rebirth with a sense of expectancy and awe, allowing your Creator the creative license to bring about His beauty in your life. And as you witness the leaves returning to the trees, thank Him for the new things He is bringing forth in your life...
"For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland." (Isaiah 43:19 NLT)
In Awe Of Him,
Katie Marie
Sunday, April 5, 2015
IMAGINE
But He didn't stop there - God raised Him from the grave and redeemed us all!!! Just think...Jesus chose YOU - will you choose Him today?
"Our firm decision is to work from this focused center: One man died for everyone. That puts everyone in the same boat. He included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own." 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (MSG)
Forever In Awe,
Katie Marie
Thursday, March 26, 2015
LIMITLESS
My Friends,
God is the limitless Creator. So why do we limit our beliefs in what He can do through us? When we surrender and allow Jesus to truly have the driver's seat in our lives, He can do incredible things!
Though you may be inclined to doubt yourself, NEVER doubt the God who fearfully and wonderfully made you to be GREAT through Him! Allow Him to be limitless in you ❤️
"But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God’s terms. It stands to reason, doesn’t it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he’ll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ’s! (Romans 8:10-11 MSG)
In Awe And Wonder,
Katie Marie
God is the limitless Creator. So why do we limit our beliefs in what He can do through us? When we surrender and allow Jesus to truly have the driver's seat in our lives, He can do incredible things!
Though you may be inclined to doubt yourself, NEVER doubt the God who fearfully and wonderfully made you to be GREAT through Him! Allow Him to be limitless in you ❤️
"But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God’s terms. It stands to reason, doesn’t it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he’ll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ’s! (Romans 8:10-11 MSG)
In Awe And Wonder,
Katie Marie
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
THIS DAY
Hi Precious Friends,
In this modern era, it's so easy to get swept away by distractions and circumstances. Sometimes we need to just stop, breathe, and take inventory. As we experience these last few days of 2014 and look into the bright future of 2015, I wanted to share one of my latest poems. I pray it speaks to your heart and draws you ever-closer to the God who thought of you before He formed the foundations of the world...
In this modern era, it's so easy to get swept away by distractions and circumstances. Sometimes we need to just stop, breathe, and take inventory. As we experience these last few days of 2014 and look into the bright future of 2015, I wanted to share one of my latest poems. I pray it speaks to your heart and draws you ever-closer to the God who thought of you before He formed the foundations of the world...
THIS DAY
I will rest on Your promises
Today, I’ll seek Your face
And I will trust in the unseen;
This day, release my faith.
I won’t dwell on circumstances
Swirling all around me.
This day, I’ll choose to rise above
By standing on belief
That You, my faithful Father,
Are always there for me;
Pouring out your love,
Unending grace on the scene.
Though waters tend to rise up
You only let me drown
In mercies never ending,
Even when I let you down
By begging You for answers
My heart still longs to know.
Instead, You fill their spaces
So doubt and fear can’t grow.
I know that You are for me
Each moment of these days
So forgive me for my questions
And times I’ve walked away.
It’s not that I don’t trust You;
I give You all I have.
But sometimes life gets messy,
Confusing where I am…
Forgetting I’m Your priceless,
Your beloved and Your friend;
Forgetting You are with me,
Far beyond the very end.
So Lord, oh please forgive me
For mistakes that I have made,
Decisions that have hurt you,
For questioning Your Way.
My Father, You are faithful,
Abba loving, Abba kind.
So this and everyday,
God, please hold this heart of mine.
God, please hold this heart of mine.
Thankfully Forgiven,
Katie Marie
www.katiemariemusic.com
www.twitter.com/katiemarielive
www.instagram.com/katiemariemusic
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
YOU ARE LOVED...
Precious friends,
During this month of our country's celebration of love, I feel so led to remind you of how EPICALLY our incredible Creator adores you!!! Whether you find yourself in a relationship this year or not, NOONE can complete or love on you like Jesus. I know it sounds cliche, but it's true!!! Until you've experienced the incomparable love of God on a personal level, you will continue to search high and low for the piece that completes you. Jesus is that piece and He's right with you - waiting on you to welcome Him in!
Human love is a gift from God and is a reflection of His perfect love, but human love alone cannot satisfy.
Each day of this month and every time you hear anything about Valentine's Day, I encourage you to take a few moments and revel in the Savior's love for you - nothing can ever, ever, EVER separate you from Him!!! You are such a treasure that He gave His very life for you - you are a PRIZE!
With His Love Like No Other,
Katie Marie ️
#youareloved
"Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."(Romans 8:38, 39 NCV)
During this month of our country's celebration of love, I feel so led to remind you of how EPICALLY our incredible Creator adores you!!! Whether you find yourself in a relationship this year or not, NOONE can complete or love on you like Jesus. I know it sounds cliche, but it's true!!! Until you've experienced the incomparable love of God on a personal level, you will continue to search high and low for the piece that completes you. Jesus is that piece and He's right with you - waiting on you to welcome Him in!
Human love is a gift from God and is a reflection of His perfect love, but human love alone cannot satisfy.
Each day of this month and every time you hear anything about Valentine's Day, I encourage you to take a few moments and revel in the Savior's love for you - nothing can ever, ever, EVER separate you from Him!!! You are such a treasure that He gave His very life for you - you are a PRIZE!
With His Love Like No Other,
Katie Marie ️
#youareloved
"Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."(Romans 8:38, 39 NCV)
Monday, January 27, 2014
GOD'S WHISPER...REFRESH YOUR SOUL
My child, I am constantly trying to convey My heart to you, but your world is full of distraction. I want so badly for you to simply sit with Me so I can love on you, but your time with Me is short. Everything in your world screams at you, while I speak in a quiet whisper. The demands of life claw at you, but I have an outstretched hand. The stresses of life wear on you until your will and strength are broken down; I gently knock on your heart's door, inviting you into My safety and rest.
I understand all of the demands pulling down on you because they first pulled down on Me. Every struggle and burden first grabbed at Me. But I came to this earth to conquer them all and to give you life - life to the fullest! This is the abundant life I want for you to experience; it is the life available to you every moment of every day!
As I've told you in My Word, it's not that you won't have trouble or persecution...in fact you may have many. But take heart, for I have overcome the world and all it tries to throw at you! To rise above, you must do as I did. Find time to get away with your Father, Savior, and Comforter, and allow Us to refresh your soul. Pour upon Us all that weighs you down and floods your mind. Allow Us to bring you comfort and peace in exchange for your strife and discontent. Then allow Us to take care of it all. Remember, Our ways are not your ways and Our thoughts are not your thoughts.
If you take the time to refresh your soul, you will carry away with you a peace and weightlessness that will lift you above anything and everything that comes your way. This change in you will be a witness to others, as well. And though the demands and concerns you face will not be dealt with in your timing, but rather Ours, you can rest assured that all things truly will be worked out. In fact, they will be turned around to work in your favor and bring about new blessings in your life...
Love,
Jesus
"Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good." Romans 8:28 MSG
I understand all of the demands pulling down on you because they first pulled down on Me. Every struggle and burden first grabbed at Me. But I came to this earth to conquer them all and to give you life - life to the fullest! This is the abundant life I want for you to experience; it is the life available to you every moment of every day!
As I've told you in My Word, it's not that you won't have trouble or persecution...in fact you may have many. But take heart, for I have overcome the world and all it tries to throw at you! To rise above, you must do as I did. Find time to get away with your Father, Savior, and Comforter, and allow Us to refresh your soul. Pour upon Us all that weighs you down and floods your mind. Allow Us to bring you comfort and peace in exchange for your strife and discontent. Then allow Us to take care of it all. Remember, Our ways are not your ways and Our thoughts are not your thoughts.
If you take the time to refresh your soul, you will carry away with you a peace and weightlessness that will lift you above anything and everything that comes your way. This change in you will be a witness to others, as well. And though the demands and concerns you face will not be dealt with in your timing, but rather Ours, you can rest assured that all things truly will be worked out. In fact, they will be turned around to work in your favor and bring about new blessings in your life...
Love,
Jesus
"Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good." Romans 8:28 MSG
Saturday, January 25, 2014
GOD'S WHISPER...COME TO ME
Hi, Beloved Friend,
I was just journaling and these words poured out of my pen. I pray they nourish your soul as they did mine...
"Come to Me, My child, and lay down your burdens. Free your mind and your heart, and simply walk with Me. The weight you carry is not your own. It's far too heavy for you to handle, and with it in your arms, you cannot walk straight. My job is to carry all of your burdens for you so you can concentrate on enjoying each moment with Me. I am your constant guide and companion. I am your ever-present help in any time of need.
Run to Me, My child. Grab hold of My outstretched hands and never let go. My grip is eternal and will never be relaxed. Release yourself to fall into My everlasting arms. Feel My comfort surrounding you like a blanket. Allow Me to take care of you. Let Me take you in under the shelter of My wings. I am your sturdy support; your shelter in the storm.
Run to Me, My child, in good times and in bad. Seek My refuge on the days filled with sunshine and those drenched in rain. I am your shade in the heat and your blanket in the cold. Allow Me to love you as only I can. I will take care of you and satisfy you as with the richest of food. I know you better than you know yourself and I know what you need. When you come to Me, you will never be met with disappointment or regret. I am here with open arms. Always ready...always willing.
Come to Me, My child, and drink. Only I will truly satisfy your thirst. Come to Me and eat, and you will never be hungry again. Lay back in My arms and rest. Rest your fears and your worries, for I am more than enough. Come to Me and just be. Come to Me and be set free. In Me you will find true freedom and solace. I am your peace. I am your comfort. I am your God. Come, My child, and rest in Me..."
Love,
Jesus
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28 MSG
I was just journaling and these words poured out of my pen. I pray they nourish your soul as they did mine...
"Come to Me, My child, and lay down your burdens. Free your mind and your heart, and simply walk with Me. The weight you carry is not your own. It's far too heavy for you to handle, and with it in your arms, you cannot walk straight. My job is to carry all of your burdens for you so you can concentrate on enjoying each moment with Me. I am your constant guide and companion. I am your ever-present help in any time of need.
Run to Me, My child. Grab hold of My outstretched hands and never let go. My grip is eternal and will never be relaxed. Release yourself to fall into My everlasting arms. Feel My comfort surrounding you like a blanket. Allow Me to take care of you. Let Me take you in under the shelter of My wings. I am your sturdy support; your shelter in the storm.
Run to Me, My child, in good times and in bad. Seek My refuge on the days filled with sunshine and those drenched in rain. I am your shade in the heat and your blanket in the cold. Allow Me to love you as only I can. I will take care of you and satisfy you as with the richest of food. I know you better than you know yourself and I know what you need. When you come to Me, you will never be met with disappointment or regret. I am here with open arms. Always ready...always willing.
Come to Me, My child, and drink. Only I will truly satisfy your thirst. Come to Me and eat, and you will never be hungry again. Lay back in My arms and rest. Rest your fears and your worries, for I am more than enough. Come to Me and just be. Come to Me and be set free. In Me you will find true freedom and solace. I am your peace. I am your comfort. I am your God. Come, My child, and rest in Me..."
Love,
Jesus
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28 MSG
Thursday, December 5, 2013
RAIN RUNNER
Hi Sweet Blog Friends!
Sorry it's been a while since I last wrote to you - this was on my heart today after a fabulous Jesus run in the rain. I hope it inspires you as you journey this life with Jesus on your own LoveWalk :)
Isn't that so much like our LoveWalk with Jesus? So often He calls us to spend time with Him when it's inconvenient, beckons us to do things we would rather not, places burdens on our hearts we cannot deny. When we simply trust His voice and step out in faith, we are changed for the better.
Whatever it is God is calling you to today, I encourage you to throw caution to the wind (or rain), get out there, and do it! I promise - you won't regret it for a second...
"Just as rain and snow descend from the skies and don't go back until they've watered the earth, doing their work of making things grow and blossom...so will the words that come out of my mouth not come back empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll complete the assignment I gave them. So you'll go out in joy, you'll be led into a whole and complete life..." Isaiah 55:10-12a MSG
Soaked Through,
Katie Marie ❤
Sorry it's been a while since I last wrote to you - this was on my heart today after a fabulous Jesus run in the rain. I hope it inspires you as you journey this life with Jesus on your own LoveWalk :)
RAIN RUNNER
There is something so special about running with Jesus in the rain...it's difficult to explain and doesn't make much human sense. Most see it as an inconvenience or a discomfort. But without fail, every time I choose to push through and get out in those falling raindrops, God blesses me with an unforgettable time with Him.Isn't that so much like our LoveWalk with Jesus? So often He calls us to spend time with Him when it's inconvenient, beckons us to do things we would rather not, places burdens on our hearts we cannot deny. When we simply trust His voice and step out in faith, we are changed for the better.
Whatever it is God is calling you to today, I encourage you to throw caution to the wind (or rain), get out there, and do it! I promise - you won't regret it for a second...
"Just as rain and snow descend from the skies and don't go back until they've watered the earth, doing their work of making things grow and blossom...so will the words that come out of my mouth not come back empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll complete the assignment I gave them. So you'll go out in joy, you'll be led into a whole and complete life..." Isaiah 55:10-12a MSG
Soaked Through,
Katie Marie ❤
Monday, October 7, 2013
PUDDLE JUMPER...
Hey precious friends ~
Happy October!!! I just wanted to say hi and share a bit of my blessed day with you. This day began early with my intense desire to run with Jesus and quickly found itself met by a beautiful, rainy dawn. I'll tell you, though - 5.5 miles of running through deep puddles and the cobblestone streets of Charleston, SC in the pouring down rain surely didn't damper my morning plans - in fact, it spurred me on and surely crowned me the most joyful, carefree child of God on earth..free in my worship and free to just be me!
I praise the Lord for opportunities like that - so often adults try to look like we "have it all together." Are you kidding me? None of us do! In fact, Jesus tells us we must be like children in order to enter and truly experience the Kingdom of God.
Precious friends, I encourage you today to embrace your inner child and do something out of the ordinary or just plain silly. Sometimes it's in those unexpected moments that Jesus and His awesome love are most tangible in our lives :)
Puddle Jumping with Jesus,
Katie Marie ❤
"Because you’ve always stood up for me, I’m free to run and play. I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post. (Psalm 63:5-8 MSG)
Saturday, September 28, 2013
TAKE A MOMENT...
Hi Beautiful Blog Friends,
Even in the midst of crazy schedules and busy to-do lists, I encourage you to take a few moments this weekend and just stop to watch the wind blow through the trees.
See how the leaves dance upon the gusts? That's how we should be living our lives in Christ - free from reservation and resistance. It's easier said than done, I know, but if we can keep reminding ourselves that God is for us and not against us, it's easier to go with His flow and ride the winds of His plans. Just a thought for your beautiful Saturday...
"...Let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant, and pass the word among the nations, “ God reigns!” Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow, let field and all its creatures shake the rafters; Then the trees in the forest will add their applause to all who are pleased and present before God —he’s on his way to set things right!(1 Chronicles 16:30-33 MSG)
Resting In Him,
Katie Marie
Even in the midst of crazy schedules and busy to-do lists, I encourage you to take a few moments this weekend and just stop to watch the wind blow through the trees.
See how the leaves dance upon the gusts? That's how we should be living our lives in Christ - free from reservation and resistance. It's easier said than done, I know, but if we can keep reminding ourselves that God is for us and not against us, it's easier to go with His flow and ride the winds of His plans. Just a thought for your beautiful Saturday...
"...Let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant, and pass the word among the nations, “ God reigns!” Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow, let field and all its creatures shake the rafters; Then the trees in the forest will add their applause to all who are pleased and present before God —he’s on his way to set things right!(1 Chronicles 16:30-33 MSG)
Resting In Him,
Katie Marie
Thursday, September 19, 2013
BROKEN-HEARTED? THIS IS FOR YOU...
My sweet blog friends,
To any of you beloved people who awakened to a heavy heart this morning, I want to share a Scripture with you. No matter how defeated you may feel or how dark your days have become, your help is on the way...in fact, He's all around you, right beside you, and deep inside your heart.
I treasure all of you who make up my life - whether you are one of my readers, we met for a moment in a random gas station or you're one of my closest friends. Each and every one of you, near or far, are priceless to me and you cannot be replaced! Now just think of how much more Jesus loves you than me, a mere mortal ;) Be blessed today and lift your eyes up to Him, the one who truly saves...
"Is anyone crying for help? God is listening, ready to rescue you. If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath. He’s your bodyguard, shielding every bone; not even a finger gets broken. God pays for each slave’s freedom; no one who runs to him loses out." (Psalm 34:17, 18, 20, 22 MSG)
In His Healing Love,
Katie Marie ❤
Thursday, September 12, 2013
SOCIAL MEDIA :)
Happy, beautiful Thursday morning to you, my sweet peeps!!!
I hope this day has greeted you with surprise blessings and a joy that cannot be affected by circumstance or trial. Since Instagram is so huge right now, I figured I'd let you all know you can follow me on Instagram, too!
You can keep up with me at instagram.com/katiemariemusic
On my facebook artist page at www.facebook.com/pages/Katie-Marie/362836280410092
Or on twitter at twitter.com/katiemarielive
Please keep in touch - message me, tweet, instagram...I want to hear from you!!!
Blessings n love,
Katie Marie
I hope this day has greeted you with surprise blessings and a joy that cannot be affected by circumstance or trial. Since Instagram is so huge right now, I figured I'd let you all know you can follow me on Instagram, too!
You can keep up with me at instagram.com/katiemariemusic
On my facebook artist page at www.facebook.com/pages/Katie-Marie/362836280410092
Or on twitter at twitter.com/katiemarielive
Please keep in touch - message me, tweet, instagram...I want to hear from you!!!
Blessings n love,
Katie Marie
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
WE DO NOT STAND ALONE...REMEMBERING 9.11.2001
Hi friends,
I posted this online back on September 11, 2006, and felt led to share it again on this historic anniversary of our country and lives. God has not left us and He never will...run to Him in times of devastation and loss...be blessed today and always.
Monday, September 11, 2006
After SUCH a long trip home yesterday (and into the early morning today) from touring, I was so excited to revel in the comfort of my own bed this morning. After waking up a little, I turned my TV on and flipped thru the channels. Within 30 seconds, I settled on watching the Songs of Solomon Choir singing Josh Groban's popular "You Raise Me Up" live in New York City. To my dismay, the cameras switched from shots of the choir singing to scans of countless tear-streaked faces in the onlooking crowd.
I was immediately stabbed with the realization that the anniversary of one of the most horrific and unforgettable days our country has ever seen had arrived yet again. Today is September 11th.
Tears immediately welled up in my eyes as I watched mothers and daughters holding each other, both unable to stand alone, but finding strength in one another. There were those with their heads in their praying hands, and so many others who could do nothing else but stand and cry.
I sat in my room breathless, hearing those beautiful voices sing this familiar song, imagining the unspeakable devastation and loss these family members and survivors must feel every day of their lives, yet painfully brought to light even more on this very day.
The lyrics rang in my head, "I am strong when I am on your shoulders, you raise me up to more than I can be..."
I imagine those gathered today where the Twin Towers once stood didn't feel very strong. All of those years back, I'm sure many children in that crowd, both young and old, were left without their daddy who used to raised them up on his shoulders to see above crowds. Whose shoulders do they sit on now? I imagine wives and husbands were left without their partner's shoulder to cry on. Who catches the tears that have fallen since 9/11/2001? Countless parents must have been reminded, as if they could ever forget, of how empty they are without the children who once slept upon their shoulder. Who fills that seemingly unfulfillable spot? I don't understand how, but God takes on all of those roles, comforts their aching hearts, and hears their desperate cries.
It's unfathomable to imagine how many prayers are lifted up to God each day. But, think about this; how many millions or trillions more is He hearing today? How many people are throwing their unbearable hate and anger over the aftermath of 9/11 upon Him right now? How many are hounding Him with countless "Why"'s and "how could you's?" Humanity has not even come close to dreaming up the name for a number of that size.
How does He handle it all? How can He have the strength to hold up the entire world day in and out while still holding out His loving hand to catch the tears that fall from each eye? I don't know how, but this is the God I am so in love with. He's the one who shows us we are never alone; who tells us to take the weight of the world off our small shoulders and put it on His; to cast our worries and cares on Him. He's telling us He can handle it...all of it. He's whispering, "Lean on me; rest in me; trust me. I am strong enough."
What about those who don't believe in God? NEWSFLASH: He doesn't need our acknowledgment or accolades to be who He is or to do what He does. I'm so thankful that no amount of unbelief can take away His power or even His belief in us. We are all still standing each day because of Christ alone, even those who don't believe. Every person huddled at ground zero today was standing because Jesus was holding them in His hands. They may not have felt it; they may not have even sensed Him, but way deep down, woven into the very fabric of their being, they knew they were not standing alone.
He was there September 11, 2001, holding His creation trapped inside the smoldering, teetering structures. He was there on those planes that were set out to destroy and marked to demolish our faith in our country and in Him. Jesus held each person who lost their lives that day, and is still holding the ones they left behind. He was there, He is here, He is...GOD.
The Twin Towers may have fallen into rubble several years ago due to unspeakable evils and grotesque hate, but God's creation will not end in a pile of dust and debris. No, no, no. This was not the first assault on mankind, and I realize it is probably not the last. On any given day, devastation and sadness sweep this fallen world. Yet, when the clouds of smoke and soot clear each time, amidst the rubble and ash, He is standing there, strong and unshaken. And, just as a single, vibrant blade of grass pushes its way through the blackened, charred remains of what once was, we rise again, because HE rose again. We do not stand alone. He won't let us. You see, in our weakness, His strength is perfected. We are strong because of His strength.
Over two thousand years ago, Jesus took the weight of the world, the sins of the world, the 9/11's of the world, upon His shoulders; upon His frame...and today He is still standing. We are still standing...WE DO NOT STAND ALONE.
"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
In Him,
Katie Marie
I posted this online back on September 11, 2006, and felt led to share it again on this historic anniversary of our country and lives. God has not left us and He never will...run to Him in times of devastation and loss...be blessed today and always.
Monday, September 11, 2006
After SUCH a long trip home yesterday (and into the early morning today) from touring, I was so excited to revel in the comfort of my own bed this morning. After waking up a little, I turned my TV on and flipped thru the channels. Within 30 seconds, I settled on watching the Songs of Solomon Choir singing Josh Groban's popular "You Raise Me Up" live in New York City. To my dismay, the cameras switched from shots of the choir singing to scans of countless tear-streaked faces in the onlooking crowd.
I was immediately stabbed with the realization that the anniversary of one of the most horrific and unforgettable days our country has ever seen had arrived yet again. Today is September 11th.
Tears immediately welled up in my eyes as I watched mothers and daughters holding each other, both unable to stand alone, but finding strength in one another. There were those with their heads in their praying hands, and so many others who could do nothing else but stand and cry.
I sat in my room breathless, hearing those beautiful voices sing this familiar song, imagining the unspeakable devastation and loss these family members and survivors must feel every day of their lives, yet painfully brought to light even more on this very day.
The lyrics rang in my head, "I am strong when I am on your shoulders, you raise me up to more than I can be..."
I imagine those gathered today where the Twin Towers once stood didn't feel very strong. All of those years back, I'm sure many children in that crowd, both young and old, were left without their daddy who used to raised them up on his shoulders to see above crowds. Whose shoulders do they sit on now? I imagine wives and husbands were left without their partner's shoulder to cry on. Who catches the tears that have fallen since 9/11/2001? Countless parents must have been reminded, as if they could ever forget, of how empty they are without the children who once slept upon their shoulder. Who fills that seemingly unfulfillable spot? I don't understand how, but God takes on all of those roles, comforts their aching hearts, and hears their desperate cries.
It's unfathomable to imagine how many prayers are lifted up to God each day. But, think about this; how many millions or trillions more is He hearing today? How many people are throwing their unbearable hate and anger over the aftermath of 9/11 upon Him right now? How many are hounding Him with countless "Why"'s and "how could you's?" Humanity has not even come close to dreaming up the name for a number of that size.
How does He handle it all? How can He have the strength to hold up the entire world day in and out while still holding out His loving hand to catch the tears that fall from each eye? I don't know how, but this is the God I am so in love with. He's the one who shows us we are never alone; who tells us to take the weight of the world off our small shoulders and put it on His; to cast our worries and cares on Him. He's telling us He can handle it...all of it. He's whispering, "Lean on me; rest in me; trust me. I am strong enough."
What about those who don't believe in God? NEWSFLASH: He doesn't need our acknowledgment or accolades to be who He is or to do what He does. I'm so thankful that no amount of unbelief can take away His power or even His belief in us. We are all still standing each day because of Christ alone, even those who don't believe. Every person huddled at ground zero today was standing because Jesus was holding them in His hands. They may not have felt it; they may not have even sensed Him, but way deep down, woven into the very fabric of their being, they knew they were not standing alone.
He was there September 11, 2001, holding His creation trapped inside the smoldering, teetering structures. He was there on those planes that were set out to destroy and marked to demolish our faith in our country and in Him. Jesus held each person who lost their lives that day, and is still holding the ones they left behind. He was there, He is here, He is...GOD.
The Twin Towers may have fallen into rubble several years ago due to unspeakable evils and grotesque hate, but God's creation will not end in a pile of dust and debris. No, no, no. This was not the first assault on mankind, and I realize it is probably not the last. On any given day, devastation and sadness sweep this fallen world. Yet, when the clouds of smoke and soot clear each time, amidst the rubble and ash, He is standing there, strong and unshaken. And, just as a single, vibrant blade of grass pushes its way through the blackened, charred remains of what once was, we rise again, because HE rose again. We do not stand alone. He won't let us. You see, in our weakness, His strength is perfected. We are strong because of His strength.
Over two thousand years ago, Jesus took the weight of the world, the sins of the world, the 9/11's of the world, upon His shoulders; upon His frame...and today He is still standing. We are still standing...WE DO NOT STAND ALONE.
"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
In Him,
Katie Marie
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
