Sunday, April 29, 2012
A MOMENT FOR GOD
Almost two years ago, I vividly remember a walk I took in God's creation. It was one of those times when I couldn’t help but pick every new flower and admire each unique feature and vibrant color. Each blossom was so completely different; yet they all worked together to finish a live portrait of extravagant beauty.
As I strolled along, I remember spotting a small cluster of dandelion puffs by the road to my left. I was intrigued to pick one up and study it, too. As soon as I plucked it, I was hit with a memorable image. With this small, seed-loaded dandelion in my hand, I realized I had an option...to use my breath to help scatter its seeds or let the wind carry them to wherever they were destined to land. Do you see the spiritual lesson we can glean from this?
There are opportunities each day along the road of life to help God reach every one of His beloved children. We can choose to take the time to nurture that person whose life has crossed our path, or we can walk on by...leaving God to work through another vessel.
What moments are we all missing by keeping our heads down, busied in our days? I can recall so many times when I began my day asking the Lord to use me to touch someone else’s life. Each time, He faithfully answered those prayers. Along with those windows of opportunity, I was also presented the choice to step out and act on them or continue along on my own way.
Isn't life too short to pass by the seed puffs planted along your life’s path? And aren’t people’s lives too important to ignore the opportunity to reach out with kind eyes, an encouraging word, and a sweet smile?
Dandelions can be an absolute nuisance. You know, many people see the Gospel as a dandelion in their yards...Jesus continues to cross their paths, springing up in the most unlikely places. And though He is a true gentleman, never forcing His way into someone’s heart, He will not give up. It's true; we can pluck Him from the front yard, but somehow He'll surface in the back! Christ is the loving Savior who seeks to be welcomed and planted in our lives.
Today, I’m asking you to consider dandelions from another angle. Allow them to be a reminder of God's awesome plan for the redemption of His creation. We are each called to carry forth the love and light of Jesus, spreading His gospel to the farthest reaches of this world.
I encourage you to take a small step of faith today. Make a commitment to yourself that the next time you see a dandelion puff along your path, you’ll pick it, pray for God to use you to carry His love into this lost world, then blow the dandelion’s seeds into the air. Follow them as they ride the wind and envision each seed as a life you can touch.
You’ll most likely notice joy bursting from your heart and a perma-grin beaming from your face…
Smiling a Little Wider,
Katie Marie
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
PENNIES...
My beloved friend,
Today, I pose an elementary question to you...what is the face value of a penny? It is quite simple: one single cent. But what is the redemptive value of a penny to you? Do you keep a close eye on the pennies in your pockets, purse, or wallet? What about when you spot a lonely cent on the ground; is it worth your time and energy to interrupt your day, bend over, and pick it up? And if you do hold onto that coin, do you ever get around to depositing or redeeming it?
Chances are, even if you rescue that penny from the pavement, its next home will not likely be in your bank account or a merchant's cash register. Sadly, it will probably fall again to rest between the cracks of your car seat or sofa along with gum wrappers, dust bunnies, and stale cheetos.
It's just a simple fact of life: a penny isn't very valuable. Have you ever wondered why we have such insignificant little things? After all, it takes 100 of these copper coins to become a dollar. Even a dollar doesn't hold much esteem these days. How much less is assigned to a single cent? To build up to a dollar amount that is even somewhat significant, it takes tens of thousands of those little coins.
To collect such a staggering amount by happenstance would be far too time consuming and exhaustive. There are many more productive and meaningful tasks we can all partake in. Loose change is all around us scattered about the planet. When redeemed, it does have value, but is it equal to the energy spent holding onto it? And so, I ask you the question: pick up the penny or pass it by?
We humans could very easily imagine ourselves being seen by our Creator as millions of pennies scattered upon the earth. Even the Bible says that apart from God we are worthless, expendable, fragile, and ill productive. And yet, with Him, we are more than conquerors, infinitely valuable, and able to do all things! Almighty God takes it even a step further – because of His boundless love and passion to be near us, He has chosen to make home right within our hearts. Considering this, we little pennies must hold far more value than we see in each other and ourselves.
Today you may feel like a penny strewn upon the worn pavement of life, completely overlooked by passers by or even by God Himself. Does it almost seem as though people peer down and spot you in your condition, but they lack the impetus necessary to reach down and pick you up? No matter - you have infinite value in the eyes of your Creator. Though it is possible to feel cast away by another person, it is IMPOSSIBLE to be discarded by your Heavenly Father. You are more than worth the effort and sacrifice needed to be rescued and redeemed. Each of us must come to truly grasp and continue to call upon this truth, regardless of what our eyes or emotions are telling us. That condemning voice within is always looking for opportunities to deceive and mislead our interpretations of situations. We, however, can choose not to believe the lies...
A penny may be just a single cent, but you, a fragile, created, and purposed being, are worth far more than you can fathom. You’re worth the sacrifice of another’s life. I speak not just of any life that was given to redeem you, but the very life of the one and only perfect Son of God!
Jesus stepped down from Glory because you caught His eye right where you were on the ground, and He found you lovely! Christ Jesus lowered Himself, lifted you up, and redeemed you eternally. No matter the face value you imagine when you see your reflection, you are a priceless treasure in the nail-scarred hands of your Savior; the crown of God’s creation.
So pick up the penny or pass it by? The very next time I find one, in remembrance of God's perspective concerning my eternal value, I think I might just bend down, pick up that lonely little penny, and deposit it straight into the bank...
TREASURED,
Katie Marie <3
Today, I pose an elementary question to you...what is the face value of a penny? It is quite simple: one single cent. But what is the redemptive value of a penny to you? Do you keep a close eye on the pennies in your pockets, purse, or wallet? What about when you spot a lonely cent on the ground; is it worth your time and energy to interrupt your day, bend over, and pick it up? And if you do hold onto that coin, do you ever get around to depositing or redeeming it?
Chances are, even if you rescue that penny from the pavement, its next home will not likely be in your bank account or a merchant's cash register. Sadly, it will probably fall again to rest between the cracks of your car seat or sofa along with gum wrappers, dust bunnies, and stale cheetos.
It's just a simple fact of life: a penny isn't very valuable. Have you ever wondered why we have such insignificant little things? After all, it takes 100 of these copper coins to become a dollar. Even a dollar doesn't hold much esteem these days. How much less is assigned to a single cent? To build up to a dollar amount that is even somewhat significant, it takes tens of thousands of those little coins.
To collect such a staggering amount by happenstance would be far too time consuming and exhaustive. There are many more productive and meaningful tasks we can all partake in. Loose change is all around us scattered about the planet. When redeemed, it does have value, but is it equal to the energy spent holding onto it? And so, I ask you the question: pick up the penny or pass it by?
We humans could very easily imagine ourselves being seen by our Creator as millions of pennies scattered upon the earth. Even the Bible says that apart from God we are worthless, expendable, fragile, and ill productive. And yet, with Him, we are more than conquerors, infinitely valuable, and able to do all things! Almighty God takes it even a step further – because of His boundless love and passion to be near us, He has chosen to make home right within our hearts. Considering this, we little pennies must hold far more value than we see in each other and ourselves.
Today you may feel like a penny strewn upon the worn pavement of life, completely overlooked by passers by or even by God Himself. Does it almost seem as though people peer down and spot you in your condition, but they lack the impetus necessary to reach down and pick you up? No matter - you have infinite value in the eyes of your Creator. Though it is possible to feel cast away by another person, it is IMPOSSIBLE to be discarded by your Heavenly Father. You are more than worth the effort and sacrifice needed to be rescued and redeemed. Each of us must come to truly grasp and continue to call upon this truth, regardless of what our eyes or emotions are telling us. That condemning voice within is always looking for opportunities to deceive and mislead our interpretations of situations. We, however, can choose not to believe the lies...
A penny may be just a single cent, but you, a fragile, created, and purposed being, are worth far more than you can fathom. You’re worth the sacrifice of another’s life. I speak not just of any life that was given to redeem you, but the very life of the one and only perfect Son of God!
Jesus stepped down from Glory because you caught His eye right where you were on the ground, and He found you lovely! Christ Jesus lowered Himself, lifted you up, and redeemed you eternally. No matter the face value you imagine when you see your reflection, you are a priceless treasure in the nail-scarred hands of your Savior; the crown of God’s creation.
So pick up the penny or pass it by? The very next time I find one, in remembrance of God's perspective concerning my eternal value, I think I might just bend down, pick up that lonely little penny, and deposit it straight into the bank...
TREASURED,
Katie Marie <3
Sunday, April 15, 2012
MY BLESSING...KEEP REACHING!!!
Hello my faithful friends,
I just wanted to let you in on my blessed weekend. I had the unforgettable gift of spending 3.5 days in the rolling hills of Kentucky near Cumberland Falls with some of the most beautiful, Jesus-loving women I have ever encountered.
What a blessing it was to raise my hands in worship with my new sisters in Chrit and watch as the Almighty God of the universe Himself grabbed hold of each of their hearts in the most loving and personal ways...witnessing Him move and reveal Himself over and over again was indescribable.
To each of you priceless ladies who attended our KEEP REACHING Women's Retreat, you have found and will forever hold such a special place in my big ol heart...thank you for celebrating the King with me, laughing in the silly moments, embracing my exuberance for Jesus, and even holding me up as I led you in worship standing on random chairs in stiletto heels!!! :)
My girls, until we meet again either upon this earth or in glorious eternity, continue REACHING and running with hope and intention...remembering who you are, WHOSE you are, and just how beautifully He sees you. He is actively pursuing you and longs for a moment by moment love walk with you!
And if you should ever need a lil giggle, just ponder my gloriously unforgettable horse cantering story, all of our random awesomeness, and maybe even give a lil Kung fu kick or two for Jesus :)
I love you all beyond words!!!
Katie Marie
I just wanted to let you in on my blessed weekend. I had the unforgettable gift of spending 3.5 days in the rolling hills of Kentucky near Cumberland Falls with some of the most beautiful, Jesus-loving women I have ever encountered.
What a blessing it was to raise my hands in worship with my new sisters in Chrit and watch as the Almighty God of the universe Himself grabbed hold of each of their hearts in the most loving and personal ways...witnessing Him move and reveal Himself over and over again was indescribable.
To each of you priceless ladies who attended our KEEP REACHING Women's Retreat, you have found and will forever hold such a special place in my big ol heart...thank you for celebrating the King with me, laughing in the silly moments, embracing my exuberance for Jesus, and even holding me up as I led you in worship standing on random chairs in stiletto heels!!! :)
My girls, until we meet again either upon this earth or in glorious eternity, continue REACHING and running with hope and intention...remembering who you are, WHOSE you are, and just how beautifully He sees you. He is actively pursuing you and longs for a moment by moment love walk with you!
And if you should ever need a lil giggle, just ponder my gloriously unforgettable horse cantering story, all of our random awesomeness, and maybe even give a lil Kung fu kick or two for Jesus :)
I love you all beyond words!!!
Katie Marie
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
THOUGHTS FROM THE STUDIO...#1 :)
Hi, beautiful friend!
This just randomly came to heart as I was sitting in the studio yesterday, recording my new album, so I thought I'd write it down and share it with you...
The love of Christ is all surpassing, all encompassing, all consuming. It cannot be contained, defined, or even fathomed. In order to experience its awesome power, we must simply step into the flow of His living waters and let that love wash and soak us through and through. We must simply receive; just receive and release our every weight and burden...
He who believes in Me [who cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me] as the Scripture has said, From his innermost being shall flow [continuously] springs and rivers of living water. (John 7:38 AMP)
Captured By Love So Divine,
Katie Marie
This just randomly came to heart as I was sitting in the studio yesterday, recording my new album, so I thought I'd write it down and share it with you...
The love of Christ is all surpassing, all encompassing, all consuming. It cannot be contained, defined, or even fathomed. In order to experience its awesome power, we must simply step into the flow of His living waters and let that love wash and soak us through and through. We must simply receive; just receive and release our every weight and burden...
He who believes in Me [who cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me] as the Scripture has said, From his innermost being shall flow [continuously] springs and rivers of living water. (John 7:38 AMP)
Captured By Love So Divine,
Katie Marie
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
THE WEDDING AISLE
There was a season, not too long ago, when God placed me in a strange job. It took His awesome strength and fail-proof Word to get me out of bed each day just to face that situation. It was a difficult, trying season, to say the least, but for all I have learned and for the people I met as a result, I am so thankful.
One day, as I was running an errand for my boss, I had to walk down a long, boundless hallway. This was a corridor I trudged back and forth upon for ten plus hours a day, five tedious days a week. God had a specific purpose in this errand, though; this trek was different. As I set foot on this hallway’s carpet and turned the corner to begin my task, Etta James’ song, “At Last” began to play over the speakers.
Imagine the echo I heard as it rang through that frigid hallway…“At last, my love has come along…” Setting out upon that daunting path, I would have never imagined I’d find myself in a sweet little rendezvous with God. He met me right where I was and gave me exactly what I needed; my Father comforted my immediate pain. These few priceless moments and a vibrant picture will stand in the forefront of my mind forever.
As the words and melody carried me forward, an image flashed into my head of a beautiful wedding aisle. It seemed that with each step I took, as I advanced down this seemingly endless hall, God impressed this picture upon me more and more. With each step, my present circumstances faded further into the background. After all, I was walking with God…
As we strolled, He explained that everywhere I go in life, He is leading me further down my wedding aisle toward Christ. Not only does He guide my every step; at the end of each day, He meets me - He is there. I was flooded with the sweetest of wedding-day thoughts and excitement as these words crossed my mind…“Envision every single place you walk as the beautiful aisle of your wedding.”
You see, God is intensely pursuing each of us along life’s adventure. You are an integral part of the bride of Christ. At the very end of it all, Jesus Himself will be waiting to meet you, His beloved bride; oh, how He cherishes you and what a celebration awaits! But until then, realize that every step you advance is also one farther away from the past you’re leaving behind. Remember that each day you continue walking down the aisle toward your eternal wedding. And as you make yourself ready each day, your Royal Husband is preparing for your future with Him. Listen to the words of Jesus,
I pray you will tap into the experience I lived within those few hundred steps down a passageway I had hiked a million and a half times. May it encourage you to walk each step of this life filled with excitement, anticipation, and butterflies deep within your core. Come to understand the true purpose of intentionally placing one foot in front of the next: these steps bring you one footprint closer to your beloved Christ.
Today and for the rest of your life, wear a smile portraying the thrill awaiting you. Always remember the true reason why, where, and to whom you are walking, no matter the seemingly ordinary or burdensome road you trod. Do this, knowing that at the very end of your long journey, Jesus, yes, Jesus will be waiting right there for you, His priceless, beloved, breathtaking bride. There, you will join with all faithful believers as the complete bride of Christ, and together we will celebrate for all-time...
“For your Royal Husband delights in your beauty; honor Him, for He is your Lord. The bride, a princess, looks glorious in her golden gown. In her beautiful robes, she is led to the King, accompanied by her bridesmaids. What a joyful and enthusiastic procession as they enter the King’s palace!” Psalms 45:11, 13-15 (NLT)
One day, as I was running an errand for my boss, I had to walk down a long, boundless hallway. This was a corridor I trudged back and forth upon for ten plus hours a day, five tedious days a week. God had a specific purpose in this errand, though; this trek was different. As I set foot on this hallway’s carpet and turned the corner to begin my task, Etta James’ song, “At Last” began to play over the speakers.
Imagine the echo I heard as it rang through that frigid hallway…“At last, my love has come along…” Setting out upon that daunting path, I would have never imagined I’d find myself in a sweet little rendezvous with God. He met me right where I was and gave me exactly what I needed; my Father comforted my immediate pain. These few priceless moments and a vibrant picture will stand in the forefront of my mind forever.
As the words and melody carried me forward, an image flashed into my head of a beautiful wedding aisle. It seemed that with each step I took, as I advanced down this seemingly endless hall, God impressed this picture upon me more and more. With each step, my present circumstances faded further into the background. After all, I was walking with God…
As we strolled, He explained that everywhere I go in life, He is leading me further down my wedding aisle toward Christ. Not only does He guide my every step; at the end of each day, He meets me - He is there. I was flooded with the sweetest of wedding-day thoughts and excitement as these words crossed my mind…“Envision every single place you walk as the beautiful aisle of your wedding.”
You see, God is intensely pursuing each of us along life’s adventure. You are an integral part of the bride of Christ. At the very end of it all, Jesus Himself will be waiting to meet you, His beloved bride; oh, how He cherishes you and what a celebration awaits! But until then, realize that every step you advance is also one farther away from the past you’re leaving behind. Remember that each day you continue walking down the aisle toward your eternal wedding. And as you make yourself ready each day, your Royal Husband is preparing for your future with Him. Listen to the words of Jesus,
“When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”John 14:3 (NLT)
I pray you will tap into the experience I lived within those few hundred steps down a passageway I had hiked a million and a half times. May it encourage you to walk each step of this life filled with excitement, anticipation, and butterflies deep within your core. Come to understand the true purpose of intentionally placing one foot in front of the next: these steps bring you one footprint closer to your beloved Christ.
Today and for the rest of your life, wear a smile portraying the thrill awaiting you. Always remember the true reason why, where, and to whom you are walking, no matter the seemingly ordinary or burdensome road you trod. Do this, knowing that at the very end of your long journey, Jesus, yes, Jesus will be waiting right there for you, His priceless, beloved, breathtaking bride. There, you will join with all faithful believers as the complete bride of Christ, and together we will celebrate for all-time...
“For your Royal Husband delights in your beauty; honor Him, for He is your Lord. The bride, a princess, looks glorious in her golden gown. In her beautiful robes, she is led to the King, accompanied by her bridesmaids. What a joyful and enthusiastic procession as they enter the King’s palace!” Psalms 45:11, 13-15 (NLT)
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
SUNBEAM
Hi Shiny friend,
It's amazing how God infiltrates our moment by moment days with lessons and sweet take-aways if we allow Him the space. More than ever, I am convinced that He just wants to whisper to us in the simplest forms of communication...through a fallen flower on the sidewalk, a rock shaped like a heart put in our path, or witnessing a breathtaking sunrise on a morning we had no intentions of rising so early.
It’s hard to deny: God is in the daily. He is in the moment. He is in the minute and the second.
As I awakened this morning to pull the curtains back in my bedroom, I felt the radiant warmth of the sun breaking from behind the hills. The timing couldn't have been more perfect. What a tangible reminder that today, in that moment, was the fresh start to yet another day. The slate of yesterday, last week, last year, and even a lifetime had been whitewashed. Whether past days were filled with good or bad, blessing or curses, all had been wiped clean and left back in time.
The heat upon my face not only reminded me of the promises and hope of this new day, but also the everlasting radiance we will soak in as we spend eternity in the presence of our mighty God. Who are we that He would choose us, these broken people, to keep Him company for all eternity?... that He would desire to display His beauty and treasures with us?.. that He would share His extravagant heavenly places with us?
Make no mistake, this morning you may have awakened to achy knees, a new blemish gracing your face, or you may even be confined in some way, but you won't always live in this condition. You will one day receive a perfect, immortal body! We won't always fight down lies of fear, failure, and loneliness. We will live in perfect peace and true, everlasting joy. God adored us too much to leave us in such a sorry state for all eternity..."He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!; Then he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.' Revelation 21:5 (NIV) WOW - we are loved.
No matter what condition you found yourself in this morning upon rising, know that you are incredibly treasured. Take those words and let them permeate your mind, your heart, and your life! God cherishes you so much that He never sleeps - He keeps perfect watch over you, guides and provides for you, and paints unique, captivating sunrises and sunsets for you each day.
Regardless of how yesterday played out, trust in Him TODAY to be your everything. Lean on Him when you feel weak AND when you feel strong, for He is always there as your rock. “My God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me...” 2 Samuel 22:3 (NLT) Remember that Christ has your very best in mind and knows your every need and heart's desire. If you seek Him first, He will take care of the rest. Matthew 6:33-34 (TNIV)
If you are blessed today, even for a moment, to receive a touch of the sun on your skin, let it remind you of the overtaking love of God and help you set your eyes and intentions on Him. May the heat permeate your heart and be a reminder that every moment holds the opportunity of a new day with God. Throw your cares, worries, and even your triumphs toward Him; He will catch and know what to do with them every time. (Psalm 55:22) All you have to do each second is focus on soaking in God’s love, loving Him and others in return, and shining for Jesus wherever you go...
Basking in New Mercies,
Katie Marie
It's amazing how God infiltrates our moment by moment days with lessons and sweet take-aways if we allow Him the space. More than ever, I am convinced that He just wants to whisper to us in the simplest forms of communication...through a fallen flower on the sidewalk, a rock shaped like a heart put in our path, or witnessing a breathtaking sunrise on a morning we had no intentions of rising so early.
It’s hard to deny: God is in the daily. He is in the moment. He is in the minute and the second.
As I awakened this morning to pull the curtains back in my bedroom, I felt the radiant warmth of the sun breaking from behind the hills. The timing couldn't have been more perfect. What a tangible reminder that today, in that moment, was the fresh start to yet another day. The slate of yesterday, last week, last year, and even a lifetime had been whitewashed. Whether past days were filled with good or bad, blessing or curses, all had been wiped clean and left back in time.
The heat upon my face not only reminded me of the promises and hope of this new day, but also the everlasting radiance we will soak in as we spend eternity in the presence of our mighty God. Who are we that He would choose us, these broken people, to keep Him company for all eternity?... that He would desire to display His beauty and treasures with us?.. that He would share His extravagant heavenly places with us?
Make no mistake, this morning you may have awakened to achy knees, a new blemish gracing your face, or you may even be confined in some way, but you won't always live in this condition. You will one day receive a perfect, immortal body! We won't always fight down lies of fear, failure, and loneliness. We will live in perfect peace and true, everlasting joy. God adored us too much to leave us in such a sorry state for all eternity..."He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!; Then he said, 'Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.' Revelation 21:5 (NIV) WOW - we are loved.
No matter what condition you found yourself in this morning upon rising, know that you are incredibly treasured. Take those words and let them permeate your mind, your heart, and your life! God cherishes you so much that He never sleeps - He keeps perfect watch over you, guides and provides for you, and paints unique, captivating sunrises and sunsets for you each day.
Regardless of how yesterday played out, trust in Him TODAY to be your everything. Lean on Him when you feel weak AND when you feel strong, for He is always there as your rock. “My God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me...” 2 Samuel 22:3 (NLT) Remember that Christ has your very best in mind and knows your every need and heart's desire. If you seek Him first, He will take care of the rest. Matthew 6:33-34 (TNIV)
If you are blessed today, even for a moment, to receive a touch of the sun on your skin, let it remind you of the overtaking love of God and help you set your eyes and intentions on Him. May the heat permeate your heart and be a reminder that every moment holds the opportunity of a new day with God. Throw your cares, worries, and even your triumphs toward Him; He will catch and know what to do with them every time. (Psalm 55:22) All you have to do each second is focus on soaking in God’s love, loving Him and others in return, and shining for Jesus wherever you go...
Basking in New Mercies,
Katie Marie
Sunday, January 22, 2012
MYSTERIOUS WAYS...
Have you ever reacted to a situation or person and wondered what on earth you were thinking? Did you analyze yourself backward and forward, trying to seek better understanding of your reaction, only to become more confused? Isn't it a horrible feeling to realize you don't always understand yourself, much less the reasons you do the things you do? Thank goodness God knows us better than we could ever know ourselves, and more importantly, He loves us...quirks, knee-jerk reactions, and all.
"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 8:27-28 (MSG)
If you are anything like me, you're not only baffled by your own ways, but also by the plans of God. His methods and motives are certainly different from ours. I think about this often and am coming to the place of thanking Him for His higher and more perfect ways - even when I really don't feel like it.
But what if each of us who live this life of faith could just immediately rest our thoughts of question and puzzlement in the hands of God? What if our first instinct was to TRUST that His ways are perfect and everything’s going to work out in the end? In theory that sounds fabulous, but it’s a true battle when the rubber of our faith hits the road of life.
"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things." Ecclesiastes 11:5 (NIV)
I cannot fathom the rhythm to God's rhymes and often can't make sense of my own, but just the other day something occurred to me. I was suddenly so thankful to remember that He is a God who not only carefully lays out each of His plans, but also has absolute understanding concerning His decisions. God's sovereignty cannot be denied and is even painful at times, but what a silver lining in the storm clouds to be reminded that His motivations are always pure, His ways are truly perfect, AND He understands every detail of them! Oh my, are they detailed...
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 (NSV)
It is clear in life and in the Bible: God's ways are not our own. They are impossible to wrap around and much too high to grasp. Though we cannot reach them, may each of us who loves Christ be encouraged to know that His blueprints are carefully spread out in the heavenlies and each facet of them makes absolute sense to Him. Today, more than ever before, may we rest in this comfort and choose to be thankful for our God's mysterious ways...
“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG)
Baffled But Smiling,
Katie Marie
"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 8:27-28 (MSG)
If you are anything like me, you're not only baffled by your own ways, but also by the plans of God. His methods and motives are certainly different from ours. I think about this often and am coming to the place of thanking Him for His higher and more perfect ways - even when I really don't feel like it.
But what if each of us who live this life of faith could just immediately rest our thoughts of question and puzzlement in the hands of God? What if our first instinct was to TRUST that His ways are perfect and everything’s going to work out in the end? In theory that sounds fabulous, but it’s a true battle when the rubber of our faith hits the road of life.
"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things." Ecclesiastes 11:5 (NIV)
I cannot fathom the rhythm to God's rhymes and often can't make sense of my own, but just the other day something occurred to me. I was suddenly so thankful to remember that He is a God who not only carefully lays out each of His plans, but also has absolute understanding concerning His decisions. God's sovereignty cannot be denied and is even painful at times, but what a silver lining in the storm clouds to be reminded that His motivations are always pure, His ways are truly perfect, AND He understands every detail of them! Oh my, are they detailed...
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 (NSV)
It is clear in life and in the Bible: God's ways are not our own. They are impossible to wrap around and much too high to grasp. Though we cannot reach them, may each of us who loves Christ be encouraged to know that His blueprints are carefully spread out in the heavenlies and each facet of them makes absolute sense to Him. Today, more than ever before, may we rest in this comfort and choose to be thankful for our God's mysterious ways...
“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG)
Baffled But Smiling,
Katie Marie
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