As I’ve been studying the book of Acts, I’m finding myself more and more drawn to learn about the precious Holy Spirit. Even in the first few chapters of Acts, the Word clearly reveals the beauty of the Almighty’s Spirit and the indescribable gift Jesus gave us by laying down His life to come live inside us.
So who is this mighty Spirit? He is a person - an irreplaceable 1/3 of the God Head...God within us. How astounding to know the very presence of God has come in a form available to live within EACH of us who accepts the salvation of Jesus, the Christ!
Much like us, the Holy Spirit longs to be acknowledged...included in our lives. But allow me to ask you as I question myself...do we take Him for granted?
If you’re anything like me, this is a painful question to ask. I love Jesus with all my heart, and although flawed like every other human, I truly try to live my days with intention and purpose for His name’s sake. However, I believe God is calling His children to take the time to really get to know His Spirit and grow in our relationship with Him. Let’s dive in...
The Words says that He is our great Comforter (John 16:7), Counselor (John 16:13), Guide, (Acts 13:2, 16:7), and Teacher (1 Corinthians 2:11-13; John 14:26). He is much more to us than we could ever know. More than I could describe. But do we truly understand the gift we’ve been given as New Testament Christians?
It really wasn’t until I started studying Acts that I realized the difference between the Holy Spirit of the Old Testament and the New Testament. I’ve read stories of the Holy Spirit stirring in people (Judges 13:25) and even how He came in power to help Sampson rip a lion apart with his bare hands. But I’m beginning to grasp the difference between the Spirit visiting for specific times/purposes and the Spirit literally dwelling within my being at this very moment. This is powerful.
Today, I pray each of us will begin to wrap our minds around the gift we have been given. Jesus knew all along that He could not be with each of us at the same time in human form. So, along with dying to cover the sins of the world, He also gave His life and rose to the Father so He could come back in Spirit to live within each of us at all times, through every situation we will ever face. WOAH! And can I say again, WOAH?
Realize with me today that if you’ve called upon the name of Jesus to be saved from eternal death, the all powerful, life-giving, earth-creating, star-forming Spirit of Majestic God lives within you...He lives within me! Each of us have been given the companionship and help of the very Spirit who empowered men to rip apart gargantuan animals, push over pillars supporting massive temples, and even raise Christ to life from the pits of Hell and death.
With this in mind, I ask you today: what is it you cannot do? What should you be afraid to face? Which obstacles have the power to stand in your way? Can roadblocks keep you from walking forward in your God-ordained and purposed destiny today or any time in the future? Boldly, I say - no. If you will just allow Him the opportunity, The Holy Spirit will help you navigate around every trap and speed bump. Do not become frustrated by dead ends holding you back...trust the Guide to either bulldoze through them or lead you another way. And remember: He’s got you - wherever you go and whatever you do. He is with you until the end of this age and on through eternity.
Today, I encourage you to walk forward in the power given only through God’s priceless Spirit within. Do not take Him for granted. Do not ignore or shun Him; He wants to be included in your life.
May each of us acknowledge and welcome Him to be a part of single moment and detail of our everyday lives. After all, He is a person...the portion of God living right inside of us, and we need to treat Him as such. Let us not try to use Him for what He can do for us. Instead, let’s purpose to be available for what He wants to do through us...
Will you pray with me?
Oh God of the Universe, thank You for also choosing to be the Spirit within. Give each of us the passion to learn more of who You are and to grasp how You exist within our human hearts. Thank You, Jesus for Your gift of sacrifice and for Your glorification so You could be with each of us at this precise moment.
Holy Spirit, we welcome You here in this place...thank You for meeting with us today and for guiding us along every path we take. Our hearts’ cry is to know You more...to experience deeper levels of Your love and freedom so we can share it with the world. Help us to walk forward in Your mighty, life-changing power this very day. We do it all to bring glory to Your name – In Christ, Amen.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 (NIV)
Venturing on with the Spirit within,
Katie Marie
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
DANGLING...
“You never saw him, yet you love him. You still don't see him, yet you trust him—with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing...” 1 Peter 1:8 (MSG)
Just the other day, while attending a swim meet I happened upon a sweet little girl of no more than 6 accompanying her father. Off to my right and a few rows down, Dad was parked down upon the bleachers, little girl standing in front of him with back turned away. As her fragile frame stood before him, I noticed her tiny arms were held within his hands. Suddenly, my eyes grew as large as saucers as Dad began dangling his daughter out over the bleachers!
The moment I saw this father grasp his little girl’s wrists and lean her out over those rows of hard metal bleachers, I couldn’t help but alarm myself with how dangerous this game seemed. If her foot slipped, she would surely head face first into serious injury. If he were to shift his grip and lose his hold on her, she could tumble from row to row down those unforgiving risers. Thankfully, neither happened. All that ensued was the sweetest display of a father/daughter bond that was so strong, it personified the meaning of love and deep trust.
As I studied this little girl busying herself with the sights and experience, I realized she was not peeking back at her dad to be sure he was there. She wasn’t looking down, assuring herself of his grip. In fact, over the entire span of time, I only caught her gazing back once to catch the eye of her father. And in that one look, it was clear she wanted to show him how excited she was.
Here I was, off in the distance fighting off waves of maternal turmoil, and this little girl was living it up, growing more and more exuberant as Dad leaned her further and further forward. You couldn't have found the slightest trace of dread, fear, or even panic within her as she was held out far beyond comfort and safety. Nothing but smiles and sheer delight were painted from ear to ear, and her joy was incredibly captivating...I couldn’t help but watch and join right in.
You see, this little girl realized a simple, yet very important truth – her daddy had her, and He was never going to let go. The entire time she was looking out with her back turned to her supporter, she inherently knew Dad was there and that his loving hands were gripping her ever so tightly. She was secure and confident.
Do you see where this is going? Each of our lives with God are a unique journey and we have separate personal relationships with our Heavenly Father. He takes us down different paths and places us in situations tailored to our own specific purposes in this life.
Yet, no matter our circumstances or trials, we’re each called to trust and live lives of total, “dangling out there” faith. We are beckoned to offer our lives and our proverbial wrists to our Mighty God’s hands. He asks that we trust Him as He stretches us out far beyond our comfort zones...further and further over the ledges of our lives.
Just like this little girl I happened upon, a dangling faith journey can be exhilarating. It can be full of adventures and discovery when new details arise around every corner. And yet, there are surely times when faith and trust aren’t quite so amusing to exercise. More often it’s a bit too uncomfortable. We feel spread a little too thin, like a smidgen of butter scraped over a gigantic piece of hot toast.
In this life it seems there are endless moments when all we want to do is scream, “Stop! Get me off this rollercoaster - I’ve had enough!” But the thing is the ride doesn’t stop; we are not the ones in control. The devoted God of our Universe is; He knows what He’s doing and it is surely not a game to him.
If the journey of faith were always comfortable and fun, it would do nothing to shape us more into the beautiful image of Christ. We would simply enjoy the little rides and then settle back into our comfortable ways. Call me silly, but that just doesn’t seem to line up with our mysterious God’s ways...
Sure, the “great unknown” can be incredibly scary. We are creatures of comfort and routine. We like to arise in the morning knowing there’s enough milk for our cereal and peanut butter for our sandwich. We don’t like opening our eyes to a new day, realizing nothing but “what ifs” and “could be’s” are staring us in the face. But we shouldn’t be focusing on those temporary things (2 Corinthians 4:18). We need to lift our gazes to our one surety: Christ, our eternal Savior, and His priceless Spirit living in our beings.
So do we still obediently trust Jesus when it’s not “fun” anymore? What about when our wrists begin to hurt because we’ve been dangled out a little too long and too far over the edge? And what about when it suddenly feels like our Father’s not even holding us anymore? Do we lean out in faith then? Do we trust when it seems like we’re in a free-fall, just waiting for the smack of impact...or an impending collision with more disappointment? And can the people watching us from a distance still experience the joy within our hearts, no matter our circumstance?
“Say this: "GOD, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!" That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you— under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm. Fear nothing—” Psalm 91:1-3 (MSG)
As hard as it is, we need to concentrate on the knowledge that our Father has His Sovereign, loving hands around our wrists at all times. He, Himself, is securely placing us out over the chasms of faith – whether we feel Him or not. He stretches us out further so we will trust Him more; so we can see life from new perspectives.
And you know, back at that swim meet it wasn’t that little girl’s job to continue checking her father’s grip or to remind him that he needed to hold her or she would fall. Much the same, it’s not our duty to remind our Father that we are being stretched out far beyond our comforts. He doesn’t need to be analyzed to see if his intentions are genuine. We should know by now that they are...true and loving right down to the core of who He is.
And though God loves our communication with Him, we really don’t need to call to His attention the times we aren’t having fun anymore. He already knows – He sees, He hears, and He will respond. This merciful, loving Father of ours has only the best in mind for us, and though at times it’s terribly hard, we must lean into the knowledge that His heart is for us...that His hands are holding us, and He will never let us go.
“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine...so when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." 1 Peter 1:6,7 (NLT)
Well, do you trust Him today? Do I? Will we rely on the relentless promise that Guardian God will not let our feet slip? That He will watch over our coming and going both now and forevermore?
Amidst the dips and dives of your faith journey, take the time to enjoy the moment...the experiences. No matter what comes, close your eyes and realize the One who holds the stars up in the sky is securely gripping every facet of your life. From this perspective life will begin to take on a whole new meaning, and being dangled out by the arms may not feel quite so dangerously unsure.
Right now I encourage you; take a deep breath and offer your wrists, your very life, to the hands of Almighty God. He can be trusted. Now it’s up to you, my friend - will you lean out a little further today?
Dangling A Little More,
Katie Marie
“You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8-9 (NLT)
Just the other day, while attending a swim meet I happened upon a sweet little girl of no more than 6 accompanying her father. Off to my right and a few rows down, Dad was parked down upon the bleachers, little girl standing in front of him with back turned away. As her fragile frame stood before him, I noticed her tiny arms were held within his hands. Suddenly, my eyes grew as large as saucers as Dad began dangling his daughter out over the bleachers!
The moment I saw this father grasp his little girl’s wrists and lean her out over those rows of hard metal bleachers, I couldn’t help but alarm myself with how dangerous this game seemed. If her foot slipped, she would surely head face first into serious injury. If he were to shift his grip and lose his hold on her, she could tumble from row to row down those unforgiving risers. Thankfully, neither happened. All that ensued was the sweetest display of a father/daughter bond that was so strong, it personified the meaning of love and deep trust.
As I studied this little girl busying herself with the sights and experience, I realized she was not peeking back at her dad to be sure he was there. She wasn’t looking down, assuring herself of his grip. In fact, over the entire span of time, I only caught her gazing back once to catch the eye of her father. And in that one look, it was clear she wanted to show him how excited she was.
Here I was, off in the distance fighting off waves of maternal turmoil, and this little girl was living it up, growing more and more exuberant as Dad leaned her further and further forward. You couldn't have found the slightest trace of dread, fear, or even panic within her as she was held out far beyond comfort and safety. Nothing but smiles and sheer delight were painted from ear to ear, and her joy was incredibly captivating...I couldn’t help but watch and join right in.
You see, this little girl realized a simple, yet very important truth – her daddy had her, and He was never going to let go. The entire time she was looking out with her back turned to her supporter, she inherently knew Dad was there and that his loving hands were gripping her ever so tightly. She was secure and confident.
Do you see where this is going? Each of our lives with God are a unique journey and we have separate personal relationships with our Heavenly Father. He takes us down different paths and places us in situations tailored to our own specific purposes in this life.
Yet, no matter our circumstances or trials, we’re each called to trust and live lives of total, “dangling out there” faith. We are beckoned to offer our lives and our proverbial wrists to our Mighty God’s hands. He asks that we trust Him as He stretches us out far beyond our comfort zones...further and further over the ledges of our lives.
Just like this little girl I happened upon, a dangling faith journey can be exhilarating. It can be full of adventures and discovery when new details arise around every corner. And yet, there are surely times when faith and trust aren’t quite so amusing to exercise. More often it’s a bit too uncomfortable. We feel spread a little too thin, like a smidgen of butter scraped over a gigantic piece of hot toast.
In this life it seems there are endless moments when all we want to do is scream, “Stop! Get me off this rollercoaster - I’ve had enough!” But the thing is the ride doesn’t stop; we are not the ones in control. The devoted God of our Universe is; He knows what He’s doing and it is surely not a game to him.
If the journey of faith were always comfortable and fun, it would do nothing to shape us more into the beautiful image of Christ. We would simply enjoy the little rides and then settle back into our comfortable ways. Call me silly, but that just doesn’t seem to line up with our mysterious God’s ways...
Sure, the “great unknown” can be incredibly scary. We are creatures of comfort and routine. We like to arise in the morning knowing there’s enough milk for our cereal and peanut butter for our sandwich. We don’t like opening our eyes to a new day, realizing nothing but “what ifs” and “could be’s” are staring us in the face. But we shouldn’t be focusing on those temporary things (2 Corinthians 4:18). We need to lift our gazes to our one surety: Christ, our eternal Savior, and His priceless Spirit living in our beings.
So do we still obediently trust Jesus when it’s not “fun” anymore? What about when our wrists begin to hurt because we’ve been dangled out a little too long and too far over the edge? And what about when it suddenly feels like our Father’s not even holding us anymore? Do we lean out in faith then? Do we trust when it seems like we’re in a free-fall, just waiting for the smack of impact...or an impending collision with more disappointment? And can the people watching us from a distance still experience the joy within our hearts, no matter our circumstance?
“Say this: "GOD, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!" That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps, shields you from deadly hazards. His huge outstretched arms protect you— under them you're perfectly safe; his arms fend off all harm. Fear nothing—” Psalm 91:1-3 (MSG)
As hard as it is, we need to concentrate on the knowledge that our Father has His Sovereign, loving hands around our wrists at all times. He, Himself, is securely placing us out over the chasms of faith – whether we feel Him or not. He stretches us out further so we will trust Him more; so we can see life from new perspectives.
And you know, back at that swim meet it wasn’t that little girl’s job to continue checking her father’s grip or to remind him that he needed to hold her or she would fall. Much the same, it’s not our duty to remind our Father that we are being stretched out far beyond our comforts. He doesn’t need to be analyzed to see if his intentions are genuine. We should know by now that they are...true and loving right down to the core of who He is.
And though God loves our communication with Him, we really don’t need to call to His attention the times we aren’t having fun anymore. He already knows – He sees, He hears, and He will respond. This merciful, loving Father of ours has only the best in mind for us, and though at times it’s terribly hard, we must lean into the knowledge that His heart is for us...that His hands are holding us, and He will never let us go.
“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine...so when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." 1 Peter 1:6,7 (NLT)
Well, do you trust Him today? Do I? Will we rely on the relentless promise that Guardian God will not let our feet slip? That He will watch over our coming and going both now and forevermore?
Amidst the dips and dives of your faith journey, take the time to enjoy the moment...the experiences. No matter what comes, close your eyes and realize the One who holds the stars up in the sky is securely gripping every facet of your life. From this perspective life will begin to take on a whole new meaning, and being dangled out by the arms may not feel quite so dangerously unsure.
Right now I encourage you; take a deep breath and offer your wrists, your very life, to the hands of Almighty God. He can be trusted. Now it’s up to you, my friend - will you lean out a little further today?
Dangling A Little More,
Katie Marie
“You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8-9 (NLT)
Sunday, September 11, 2011
WE DO NOT STAND ALONE...9.11.2011
Hi my 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.
WE DO NOT STAND ALONE
Monday, September 11, 2006
Hi again,
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 again for the 5th time. 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. 5 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 5 years ago, 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 5 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.
WE DO NOT STAND ALONE
Monday, September 11, 2006
Hi again,
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 again for the 5th time. 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. 5 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 5 years ago, 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 5 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
Saturday, August 27, 2011
MEGAPHONE
“Your love, GOD, is my song, and I’ll sing it! I’m forever telling everyone how faithful you are. I’ll never quit telling the story of your love -” Psalm 89:1 (MSG)
Does this phrase describe the attitude and climate of your life? Does it put into words all that your heart is screaming? It surely does mine. Though life definitely comes with its ups and downs, whooptie-dos and dives, I can’t help but speak out passionately about the faithfulness and love of my Savior, Jesus.
It seems that not a day goes by that I don’t tell someone at least one amazing thing God aligned or taught me that day...He’s just that kind of God – a show off Creator, and I am one of His little megaphones. I can’t keep it in!
“From the bottom of my heart I thank you, dear Lord; I’ve never kept secret what you’re up to. You’ve always been great toward me – what love!” Psalm 86:13-14 (MSG)
Almighty God knew what He was doing when He created us with the ability to speak. He wanted a world filled with megaphones proclaiming His story of love and redemption.
All throughout the Bible there are commissions and even examples of how we should never stop proclaiming and sharing God’s goodness with this world. It’s clear that God wants the credit for His awesome works and He loves to hear about the details of all He has done.
Do you live a life that speaks out about this majestic God Man? Are you a megaphone for Jesus or do you keep quiet to blend in with the crowd who lives every day just to “get by?” I hope you are the first and not the latter of these two groups. And if you are just going with the flow, I pray you’ll quickly jump that ship and hop onto the megaphone bandwagon. God has much more in store for you...
You see, our God is adventurous; He’s a brilliant, dangerous God, and all He does is worthy of admiration and lavish praise! He works hard to prove Himself faithful, true, compassionate, loving, and accessible. All we are called to do is stand strong, trust in Him, and praise Him all along the way.
That’s it – quite simple, but not always easy. It is hard to stand strong when our knees are buckling with uncontrollable fear, and it’s difficult to trust when we can’t see an inch in front of our noses! It’s not always easy to praise when there are tears streaming down our faces and when nothing seems to make sense in life. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, no matter what I see or how things appear, God is always working hard behind the scene to turn EVERYTHING around for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).
So what must we do? What turns situations around faster than anything? You guessed it...praise. Praise and speaking out about the awesomeness of God catches the ear of the One who is able to change circumstances into possibilities and drab clouds into vibrant rainbows. Praise unlocks the keys to our radiant futures...
“Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise, who shout on parade in the bright presence of God. Delighted, they dance all day long; they know who you are, what you do – they can’t keep it quiet!” Psalm 89:17 (MSG)
What awesome things has God done for you? Declare them with thanksgiving! What close-calls has He spared you from lately? Tell somebody so they can praise God, too! In what situations has He come to your rescue? Shout about them with joy! How has Your Father provided for you recently? Share those miracles with someone else! How has He answered specific prayers you recognize only He knew about? Never stop thanking Him...
Let the answers to these questions be the catalyst to amplify your megaphone and help project His fame to this world. Out of the deepest parts of your heart, release new levels of fiery zeal to proclaim all He has done for you and just how wonderful He is.
There is simply no one who compares to our God. Nothing on earth, above or below, that holds a candle to our King of Kings. Doesn’t that just get you excited? How incredible to know that this is the exact same God who has chosen to live in each of our hearts and dwell in the midst of His beloved children.
“Search high and low, scan skies and land, you’ll find nothing and no one quite like God...God-of-the-Angel-Armies, who is like you, powerful and faithful from every angle?” Psalm 89:6, 8 (MSG)
My brothers and sisters in Christ, let us join together as radiant megaphones for God. May we cause people to become captivated...not because of our eloquent words or our outward appearances, but because of the brilliance and splendor of the God who lives within us, the loving Savior who shines through us. May He speak through us in words, intentions, actions, and everyday lives.
“Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us – you’ve been so good to us! We’re walking on air! All we are and have we owe to GOD, Holy God of Israel, our King!” Psalm 89:17-18 (MSG)
Our God is awesome and more than worthy of all our praise. Amplify the name of Jesus today and with each breath that you breathe, live more and more to make the God of the Universe famous among men...
From the Top of My Megaphone Lungs,
Katie Marie
Does this phrase describe the attitude and climate of your life? Does it put into words all that your heart is screaming? It surely does mine. Though life definitely comes with its ups and downs, whooptie-dos and dives, I can’t help but speak out passionately about the faithfulness and love of my Savior, Jesus.
It seems that not a day goes by that I don’t tell someone at least one amazing thing God aligned or taught me that day...He’s just that kind of God – a show off Creator, and I am one of His little megaphones. I can’t keep it in!
“From the bottom of my heart I thank you, dear Lord; I’ve never kept secret what you’re up to. You’ve always been great toward me – what love!” Psalm 86:13-14 (MSG)
Almighty God knew what He was doing when He created us with the ability to speak. He wanted a world filled with megaphones proclaiming His story of love and redemption.
All throughout the Bible there are commissions and even examples of how we should never stop proclaiming and sharing God’s goodness with this world. It’s clear that God wants the credit for His awesome works and He loves to hear about the details of all He has done.
Do you live a life that speaks out about this majestic God Man? Are you a megaphone for Jesus or do you keep quiet to blend in with the crowd who lives every day just to “get by?” I hope you are the first and not the latter of these two groups. And if you are just going with the flow, I pray you’ll quickly jump that ship and hop onto the megaphone bandwagon. God has much more in store for you...
You see, our God is adventurous; He’s a brilliant, dangerous God, and all He does is worthy of admiration and lavish praise! He works hard to prove Himself faithful, true, compassionate, loving, and accessible. All we are called to do is stand strong, trust in Him, and praise Him all along the way.
That’s it – quite simple, but not always easy. It is hard to stand strong when our knees are buckling with uncontrollable fear, and it’s difficult to trust when we can’t see an inch in front of our noses! It’s not always easy to praise when there are tears streaming down our faces and when nothing seems to make sense in life. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, no matter what I see or how things appear, God is always working hard behind the scene to turn EVERYTHING around for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).
So what must we do? What turns situations around faster than anything? You guessed it...praise. Praise and speaking out about the awesomeness of God catches the ear of the One who is able to change circumstances into possibilities and drab clouds into vibrant rainbows. Praise unlocks the keys to our radiant futures...
“Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise, who shout on parade in the bright presence of God. Delighted, they dance all day long; they know who you are, what you do – they can’t keep it quiet!” Psalm 89:17 (MSG)
What awesome things has God done for you? Declare them with thanksgiving! What close-calls has He spared you from lately? Tell somebody so they can praise God, too! In what situations has He come to your rescue? Shout about them with joy! How has Your Father provided for you recently? Share those miracles with someone else! How has He answered specific prayers you recognize only He knew about? Never stop thanking Him...
Let the answers to these questions be the catalyst to amplify your megaphone and help project His fame to this world. Out of the deepest parts of your heart, release new levels of fiery zeal to proclaim all He has done for you and just how wonderful He is.
There is simply no one who compares to our God. Nothing on earth, above or below, that holds a candle to our King of Kings. Doesn’t that just get you excited? How incredible to know that this is the exact same God who has chosen to live in each of our hearts and dwell in the midst of His beloved children.
“Search high and low, scan skies and land, you’ll find nothing and no one quite like God...God-of-the-Angel-Armies, who is like you, powerful and faithful from every angle?” Psalm 89:6, 8 (MSG)
My brothers and sisters in Christ, let us join together as radiant megaphones for God. May we cause people to become captivated...not because of our eloquent words or our outward appearances, but because of the brilliance and splendor of the God who lives within us, the loving Savior who shines through us. May He speak through us in words, intentions, actions, and everyday lives.
“Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us – you’ve been so good to us! We’re walking on air! All we are and have we owe to GOD, Holy God of Israel, our King!” Psalm 89:17-18 (MSG)
Our God is awesome and more than worthy of all our praise. Amplify the name of Jesus today and with each breath that you breathe, live more and more to make the God of the Universe famous among men...
From the Top of My Megaphone Lungs,
Katie Marie
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
"I LOVE YOU..."
“I love you...” These three words have been tossed around more flippantly than a frisbee on a carefree Saturday afternoon. They have been spoken countless times with little or no mind, emotion, or meaning behind them. In fact, bouquets of roses, bowed knees of proposal, even shouting matches and fits of rage have accompanied these words. Since the beginning of time careless, thoughtless people have dispensed "I love you’s” like cheap candy or dime store trinkets.
Yet on the flip side, “I love you,” has passed through millions of mouths with such truth, feeling, and sincerity, they have moved grown men to tears. Obviously, these words were meant to hold much more meaning than they often do today.
How could three small words mean so much to some people and absolutely nothing to many, many more? What was this phrase originally intended to convey? Were the exact same words meant to express our intense adoration for a spouse or child and our love of pizza? And what makes the difference in the delivery of these simple, yet poignant words?
Clearly, it’s the heart and intention hidden behind this common phrase that determines the weight of its understanding. “I love you,” was meant to be delivered with deep purpose, utter transparency, and intensity. But why?
More than any other reason, I believe the words “I love you” were created so we humans could fully express and receive (to the fullness of our abilities) the intense love of our Creator and Savior God. These words were intended to be the verbal conduits traveling from our mouths to the Lord’s heart, and back down from His voice to our ears. They were made to kiss the ears of our gracious and merciful God...our Abba Father.
Sure, God is unfathomably complicated and His ways are clearly high above ours, yet this mysterious God is strangely similar to us. He wants to be loved, desired, sought after, and understood. The Almighty longs to be pursued by those who make it their eternal mission to run after His heart and the things that mean the most to Him.
After all, our Creator formed us out of the intense love that makes up His very being (1 John 4:16). Majestic God simply wants to be loved by someone who intentionally chooses to love Him for who He is, not just the miraculous wonders He pulls off for His Beloveds.
Doesn’t that sound familiar? Isn’t that how you and I dream of being loved and spoken to? Don’t we long to hear the words, “I love you,” pouring out of lips that really mean them? Don’t we desire to be pursued by those who long to know us for the true “us” deep inside?
“Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.” Ephesians 5:1 (MSG)
But what can we, who are broken and flawed, really offer this perfect God? Simply put, we can present our love and life’s devotion. We can send forth our voices. God is yearning to hear us shout, declare, cry out, and even whisper three unadorned words, “I love you...” He doesn’t want them shot out as a result of our daily checklist, religious duties, or any other loaded intentions. Our Father longs to hear those words brought to Him the same way we humans desire them to be – spoken with true meaning and devotion.
With those thoughts now in mind, don’t the words, “I love you,” suddenly take on a whole new depth? Their weight and authenticity can be detected from quite a great distance. Listen closely...
“I love you, GOD— you make me strong. GOD is bedrock under my feet, the castle in which I live, my rescuing knight.” Psalm 18:1-2 (MSG)
“I love you, LORD; you are my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.” Psalm 18:1-2 (NLT)
These phrases of profound truth and authenticity are perfect examples of how “I love you,” was meant to be spoken.
Today’s commission is simple. In your own unique words and ways, express to God how much you love Him; demonstrate how much He means to you. Lavish your adoration upon the God of the Universe, and let Him bask in your offerings of praise.
During this time of conversation with God, I challenge you ~ don’t ask a single request of Him, simply allow the Lord to sit and absorb your sweet, tender expressions. And don’t forget to take the liberty of sending along that matchless phrase that most readily melts the heart of your Creator, Savior and Friend. Those three simple words, “I love you...”
“So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life...a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9 (MSG)
Loving Him Lavishly,
Katie Marie :)
Yet on the flip side, “I love you,” has passed through millions of mouths with such truth, feeling, and sincerity, they have moved grown men to tears. Obviously, these words were meant to hold much more meaning than they often do today.
How could three small words mean so much to some people and absolutely nothing to many, many more? What was this phrase originally intended to convey? Were the exact same words meant to express our intense adoration for a spouse or child and our love of pizza? And what makes the difference in the delivery of these simple, yet poignant words?
Clearly, it’s the heart and intention hidden behind this common phrase that determines the weight of its understanding. “I love you,” was meant to be delivered with deep purpose, utter transparency, and intensity. But why?
More than any other reason, I believe the words “I love you” were created so we humans could fully express and receive (to the fullness of our abilities) the intense love of our Creator and Savior God. These words were intended to be the verbal conduits traveling from our mouths to the Lord’s heart, and back down from His voice to our ears. They were made to kiss the ears of our gracious and merciful God...our Abba Father.
Sure, God is unfathomably complicated and His ways are clearly high above ours, yet this mysterious God is strangely similar to us. He wants to be loved, desired, sought after, and understood. The Almighty longs to be pursued by those who make it their eternal mission to run after His heart and the things that mean the most to Him.
After all, our Creator formed us out of the intense love that makes up His very being (1 John 4:16). Majestic God simply wants to be loved by someone who intentionally chooses to love Him for who He is, not just the miraculous wonders He pulls off for His Beloveds.
Doesn’t that sound familiar? Isn’t that how you and I dream of being loved and spoken to? Don’t we long to hear the words, “I love you,” pouring out of lips that really mean them? Don’t we desire to be pursued by those who long to know us for the true “us” deep inside?
“Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.” Ephesians 5:1 (MSG)
But what can we, who are broken and flawed, really offer this perfect God? Simply put, we can present our love and life’s devotion. We can send forth our voices. God is yearning to hear us shout, declare, cry out, and even whisper three unadorned words, “I love you...” He doesn’t want them shot out as a result of our daily checklist, religious duties, or any other loaded intentions. Our Father longs to hear those words brought to Him the same way we humans desire them to be – spoken with true meaning and devotion.
With those thoughts now in mind, don’t the words, “I love you,” suddenly take on a whole new depth? Their weight and authenticity can be detected from quite a great distance. Listen closely...
“I love you, GOD— you make me strong. GOD is bedrock under my feet, the castle in which I live, my rescuing knight.” Psalm 18:1-2 (MSG)
“I love you, LORD; you are my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.” Psalm 18:1-2 (NLT)
These phrases of profound truth and authenticity are perfect examples of how “I love you,” was meant to be spoken.
Today’s commission is simple. In your own unique words and ways, express to God how much you love Him; demonstrate how much He means to you. Lavish your adoration upon the God of the Universe, and let Him bask in your offerings of praise.
During this time of conversation with God, I challenge you ~ don’t ask a single request of Him, simply allow the Lord to sit and absorb your sweet, tender expressions. And don’t forget to take the liberty of sending along that matchless phrase that most readily melts the heart of your Creator, Savior and Friend. Those three simple words, “I love you...”
“So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life...a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9 (MSG)
Loving Him Lavishly,
Katie Marie :)
Sunday, July 24, 2011
LOVE BOW
“Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.” Psalm 85:11 (NIV)
As I read this verse just a few moments ago, I was deeply touched by its meaning and the promises locked within it. Immediately, I saw fountains and streams of faithfulness bubbling up from the earth and the face of Christ pouring His righteousness down upon us from the heavens. What a sight...what treasures.
It seems everywhere I look, I find the faithfulness of God. His love is audible in the echoes of children's laughter, it glides through the leaves riding summer breezes, and sparkles along the white-capped waves. The Almighty’s goodness is so evident in the ways only He can move, and in how He proves Himself strong on our behalf over and over again. His unfailing attentiveness and blessings truly spring from the earth like a fountain.
Oh, and righteousness - what a beautiful gift. Our righteousness (right standing with God) has been showered down upon us through the precious sacrifice of Jesus, our beautiful Savior. It is because of His love and redeeming blood, alone, that we have been given the right to be known as sons and daughters of the Most High God. We have been named His Beloved!
So here we are, imagining faithfulness popping up all over the world and righteousness coming down from heaven. Now envision with me these streams of faithfulness forming into a single ribbon upon Earth and righteousness doing the same, coming down from above.
Over two thousand years ago, God reached down to our world with His creative hands and gave us His Son. He then gently tied His faithfulness and Christ’s righteousness together into a beautiful Love Bow that wraps our world to this day. We are His gift, created for His delight and enjoyment...tied in perfect love. We are surrounded by God’s beauty in Creation and are constantly justified as worthy through Jesus.
Perhaps imagining this bow could help us further understand Psalm 85:10 (NIV) where it says, “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” After all, true and lasting love can only be proved through constant faithfulness. And wherever righteousness is found, there, peace will be also. Jesus personified love as He hung upon the cross and the Lord continues to love us, day in and out, in spite of our faults. It is only because He looks down through Jesus’ blood and sees us, His Creation, as spotless and righteous.
If each of us would grasp this concept of being wrapped in a Love Bow, tied together by God’s faithfulness and our righteousness through Christ, we would walk more consistently in lasting freedom and peace. We’d hold our heads high, confident in whom we are and whose we are. So let’s get to it!
Sure, we are not perfect, but we are perfectly loved. True, we do not do everything right, but we are seen as righteous by the very eyes of our Heavenly Father. And nothing could be more important than that.
Open your eyes today to the fountains of God’s faithfulness springing up all around you, and look up to meet the eyes of righteousness gazing down upon you. Thank our incredible God for His unending goodness and the priceless Love Bow securely holding you right where you stand today...
“Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.” Psalm 85:11 (NIV)
Tied in Love,
Katie Marie
As I read this verse just a few moments ago, I was deeply touched by its meaning and the promises locked within it. Immediately, I saw fountains and streams of faithfulness bubbling up from the earth and the face of Christ pouring His righteousness down upon us from the heavens. What a sight...what treasures.
It seems everywhere I look, I find the faithfulness of God. His love is audible in the echoes of children's laughter, it glides through the leaves riding summer breezes, and sparkles along the white-capped waves. The Almighty’s goodness is so evident in the ways only He can move, and in how He proves Himself strong on our behalf over and over again. His unfailing attentiveness and blessings truly spring from the earth like a fountain.
Oh, and righteousness - what a beautiful gift. Our righteousness (right standing with God) has been showered down upon us through the precious sacrifice of Jesus, our beautiful Savior. It is because of His love and redeeming blood, alone, that we have been given the right to be known as sons and daughters of the Most High God. We have been named His Beloved!
So here we are, imagining faithfulness popping up all over the world and righteousness coming down from heaven. Now envision with me these streams of faithfulness forming into a single ribbon upon Earth and righteousness doing the same, coming down from above.
Over two thousand years ago, God reached down to our world with His creative hands and gave us His Son. He then gently tied His faithfulness and Christ’s righteousness together into a beautiful Love Bow that wraps our world to this day. We are His gift, created for His delight and enjoyment...tied in perfect love. We are surrounded by God’s beauty in Creation and are constantly justified as worthy through Jesus.
Perhaps imagining this bow could help us further understand Psalm 85:10 (NIV) where it says, “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” After all, true and lasting love can only be proved through constant faithfulness. And wherever righteousness is found, there, peace will be also. Jesus personified love as He hung upon the cross and the Lord continues to love us, day in and out, in spite of our faults. It is only because He looks down through Jesus’ blood and sees us, His Creation, as spotless and righteous.
If each of us would grasp this concept of being wrapped in a Love Bow, tied together by God’s faithfulness and our righteousness through Christ, we would walk more consistently in lasting freedom and peace. We’d hold our heads high, confident in whom we are and whose we are. So let’s get to it!
Sure, we are not perfect, but we are perfectly loved. True, we do not do everything right, but we are seen as righteous by the very eyes of our Heavenly Father. And nothing could be more important than that.
Open your eyes today to the fountains of God’s faithfulness springing up all around you, and look up to meet the eyes of righteousness gazing down upon you. Thank our incredible God for His unending goodness and the priceless Love Bow securely holding you right where you stand today...
“Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven.” Psalm 85:11 (NIV)
Tied in Love,
Katie Marie
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
EVERY WORD
In the quiet stillness of the morning, I met with God today. And as my thoughts formed silent words only He could hear, I was taken by a realization. I was hit by the fact that the God of the Universe was listening to me at that very moment...He was hanging on my every word. This was certainly not because I had anything profound to say or had any new enlightenment to bring Him. He was soaking in my words simply because I delighted Him and what I had to say was uniquely important.
I sat there in my chair and pondered these thoughts with my Dad Above. I expressed my extreme gratitude for loving and cherishing me so much. But how could this be? Who am I that He would want to turn His ear my way? I am just a woman with a heart turned to God...yet somehow, that means everything to Him.
“...I look at my micro-self and wonder, why do you bother with us? Why take a second look our way? Yet we've so narrowly missed being gods, bright with Eden's dawn light. You put us in charge of your handcrafted world, repeated to us your Genesis-charge, made us lords of sheep and cattle, even animals out in the wild, birds flying and fish swimming, whales singing in the ocean deeps." Psalm 8:4-8 (MSG)
Who is this God who longs to hear the voices of His children? Why would He choose us, above all else He has created? Who is this Supreme One who has chosen mere mortals to be the object of His affections? Look at the courage of horses that never turn from the intensity of battle. Imagine the extreme speed of a cheetah pouncing through open the grasses. Envision the sheer size and power of an elephant staking its territory. Surely, in all of their power, these created beings overshadow the might of a man. And yet, we have been elected above all other living things to be loved and redeemed. We are set in a position to reign over all of the beasts of the air, land, and waters.
"His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love." Psalm 147:10-11 (NIV)
God is not impressed by accomplishments, placards on walls, or bank account balances. He is not awed by the physical feats of man nor the power wielded on Earth. This Creator of ours is drawn to those who hope, trust, and authentically love on Him. He finds joy in the ones who take time just to sit and be with Him.
Picture a young child sitting on the knee of her adoring father. Chances are, she won’t offer tremendous insights to her dad but that’s not what He’s looking for. He’s simply longing to be with his daughter...to bask her giggle as she bounces upon his knee, to catch the sparkle in her eye, and soak in every detail of her imaginative stories. He wants to hear the things that riddle her most with fear along with those that paint her greatest smiles.
This is just a peek into the complex heart of our loving Dad. We are infinitely blessed to have such a Father, Savior, and Friend. Who could ever love us more than He? Who else could make us feel more accepted, understood, or welcomed?...no one but the King of Kings, Lord of the Ages, and the lover of our unique souls.
Take some time today to truly appreciate how dialed in God is to your every action. He is concentrated on you, delighting in you, and longing for you to talk with Him about everything - to engage Him with abandon. And as you do this, realize just how profound it is that the Creator of All is sitting right there with you, hanging on your every word...
"I love the LORD because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!" Psalm 116:1-2 (NLT)
Held and Heard,
Katie Marie
I sat there in my chair and pondered these thoughts with my Dad Above. I expressed my extreme gratitude for loving and cherishing me so much. But how could this be? Who am I that He would want to turn His ear my way? I am just a woman with a heart turned to God...yet somehow, that means everything to Him.
“...I look at my micro-self and wonder, why do you bother with us? Why take a second look our way? Yet we've so narrowly missed being gods, bright with Eden's dawn light. You put us in charge of your handcrafted world, repeated to us your Genesis-charge, made us lords of sheep and cattle, even animals out in the wild, birds flying and fish swimming, whales singing in the ocean deeps." Psalm 8:4-8 (MSG)
Who is this God who longs to hear the voices of His children? Why would He choose us, above all else He has created? Who is this Supreme One who has chosen mere mortals to be the object of His affections? Look at the courage of horses that never turn from the intensity of battle. Imagine the extreme speed of a cheetah pouncing through open the grasses. Envision the sheer size and power of an elephant staking its territory. Surely, in all of their power, these created beings overshadow the might of a man. And yet, we have been elected above all other living things to be loved and redeemed. We are set in a position to reign over all of the beasts of the air, land, and waters.
"His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love." Psalm 147:10-11 (NIV)
God is not impressed by accomplishments, placards on walls, or bank account balances. He is not awed by the physical feats of man nor the power wielded on Earth. This Creator of ours is drawn to those who hope, trust, and authentically love on Him. He finds joy in the ones who take time just to sit and be with Him.
Picture a young child sitting on the knee of her adoring father. Chances are, she won’t offer tremendous insights to her dad but that’s not what He’s looking for. He’s simply longing to be with his daughter...to bask her giggle as she bounces upon his knee, to catch the sparkle in her eye, and soak in every detail of her imaginative stories. He wants to hear the things that riddle her most with fear along with those that paint her greatest smiles.
This is just a peek into the complex heart of our loving Dad. We are infinitely blessed to have such a Father, Savior, and Friend. Who could ever love us more than He? Who else could make us feel more accepted, understood, or welcomed?...no one but the King of Kings, Lord of the Ages, and the lover of our unique souls.
Take some time today to truly appreciate how dialed in God is to your every action. He is concentrated on you, delighting in you, and longing for you to talk with Him about everything - to engage Him with abandon. And as you do this, realize just how profound it is that the Creator of All is sitting right there with you, hanging on your every word...
"I love the LORD because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!" Psalm 116:1-2 (NLT)
Held and Heard,
Katie Marie
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
