Let Go and Let God Work

"For I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

 Got any control freaks reading today?I know sometimes I have been. You just want your plan to be adhered to or want to be in charge. Perhaps you try to manipulate the outcome of a situation. Trust me, stay out of it. Others will lose their trust in you if you try to orchestrate plans.

When it comes to change in a loved one we have been praying for, our hands are off the controls. God has a plan and we have to realize we can pray but then step aside and let God work.  God's plan is way better than the one we may devise. There may be some pain and problems involved but He is the one in charge and it will work out great in the end.

Waiting for a breakthrough? Let go and give the controls to God.

PRAYER: I trust you have my times in your hands. I need not fear the future as your plan will be fulfilled. In Jesus' name. Amen.

OH NO!

It is funny but the idea for this title came to me in the concept of thinking about times we utter the phrase "Oh no" so I jotted it down in my "idea" notebook and then planned to write on it in the coming week. Well sooner than later the writing began as I woke up today and could not find my Friday devotion which I had written a couple days ago. It was not in my Devotions file, spam file, inbox,or trash file but it was gone into cyber space. Instead of freaking out, which would be the normal reaction to this situation, I amazingly remained calm. Probably all of us who use computers can identify with losing files or having it crash on us right? 

So here I am at 5:30 a.m. recreating a Friday devotion of a totally new topic which was unplanned. Guess it was God's  plan to have it go out now though. 

So what other times in life do you utter this phrase "oh no!" Perhaps when you accidentally run out of gas?  Maybe you have car trouble in the form of a dead battery or it just won't start? Lost keys perhaps? Here is a good one, you lock your keys in your car? Been there done that!  You forget about something on the stove and it burns? You are going on a trip and get to the airport too late and miss your flight as the security line was longer than expected? Maybe bad weather or a mechanical issue cancels your flight? If you are an active person  and get injured and sidelined for a while that too makes you say "oh no" when you can not get out to run or do other things you enjoy. Perhaps if you are in school and have problems with an important test or maybe even fail it then you became quite discouraged. Indeed life gives us many times to say "oh no". 

What is the answer to life's frustrations? First we have to think of all we do have and what God has blessed us with. Thank Him. Things could always be allot worse. Praise Him in good times and in bad times. Keep your focus on Jesus as if you allow your thoughts to drag you into the worry frantic pit then  once again Satan will be so happy as he has derailed you from having peace that only God can give. 

One of my favorite verses is John 14:27(NIV) which reads as follows 'Peace I leave you my peace I give you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Also Colossians 3:15(NIV) is another terrific "peace verse" and it simply says "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called  to peace. And be thankful.' Finally Isaiah 26:3(NIV) reminds us that 'You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.'

There you have it. Your prescription for peace in a nutshell is basically to keep your mind on Christ and not on your problems and issues. Trust God to see you through whatever it is that has thrown you off course.

PRAYER: Today Lord I choose peace over chaos. I know at times in life things do not go as we planned. Help me to use opportunities when plans change because of no fault of my own to seize the opportunity to get closer to you by keeping my mind and heart peaceful. I know this drives the enemy crazy. I choose peace today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

STOP GLOATING

It seems our world is full of people wanting to get back at people. It is what keeps attorneys in business. Maybe if someone hurt you, you want to get them back. You feel extreme hatred to a person who took the life of a friend or family member in a murder or auto accident and say you want them to receive justice too and get hurt just like they hurt the other person.

It is true that in a court of law people have to account for what they have done wrong. But for we as individuals to wish them ill will is not right either.

Right now our country is buried in scandal and turmoil and people need to be held responsible for the law breaking and atrocious things that have been hidden. Usually it will fall to the person ultimately responsible which in our countries' case would be the President. We need to pray and continue to pray and not be sitting around wishing he would get what is due him. Even though it is "natural" to hate and wish the worst thing when you have been wronged we really need to get our emotions under control. The Bible says in Romans 12:14(NIV) 'Bless them that persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another.'

Our most effective tool in anything is prayer. If you are feeling hatred or immense anger over a situation ask God to replace it with supernatural love and pity for that person. This battle is about good and evil. God and the devil. Spiritual warfare. Proverbs 24:17-18(NIV) says 'Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, or the LORD will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from him.' Instead practice the power of prayer. In dealing with our nation's leaders and the corruption that is being uncovered, just pray for the truth to come out and righteousness to be done. Do not allow hatred or anger to control you. Let God do His work.

PRAYER: Lord I know we are commanded to pray for our enemies in Matthew 5:44 to pray for our enemies. Lord I can only do this through you and with your power. Lord Jesus you ultimately are in control and I need not worry but to trust you have a plan. Forgive me for any anger or hate I may have had. I want to remember to pray and let you do the rest. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link to post your prayers and read others prayers. This site is not run by the government but is independent.

Www.presidentialprayerteam.org

PLAN B....AGAIN?

We can give the best try possible to plan our course of life or what we will do each day but sometimes our best laid plans fall apart on us. Priorities have to come to the surface. Whether it be a disabled motor vehicle, health issue,laid off from your job, house repair or an unexpected guest, it is necessary to go with the flow and not let yourself get all upset. Being upset only adds to the problem that you now have to face. This problem may not be a problem at all but turn out to be a blessing.

When things such as this occur do you typically fall apart or get flustered and upset? When we are inflexible and things change it can be hard on a person. Relax and know that God is in control.

Having "unscheduled" activities in our day reminds me of a Bible verse I often quote from Jeremiah 29:11(NIV) and it says 'For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord.. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to bring you a hope and a future.' So just maybe "plan B " was God's plan all along? A change of course may be just what is needed to keep you focused on God. God may be working through this new plan to put you on the right course of life.

PRAYER: Father I thank you that to you there is nothing such as a "plan B" for all your plans have an ultimate purpose. Forgive me for complaining at times when this happens. Help me instead be able to say "Lord what am I to learn from this.' In Jesus' name. Amen.

MESSED UP? YOU'RE FIRED! (NOT)

Who hasn't made mistakes in their life? We all have. Sometimes the thing you do might possibly be a sin against God. Guess what? God doesn't say 'you're fired' but instead He allows you grace and mercy. He forgives you. It says in Psalm 103:12(NIV) 'As far as the east is from the west so far has He removed our sins from us.' Isn't that terrific news? 'But wait, I really messed up and think there is no hope' you may say. God is the God of hope and second chances. He loves you with an everlasting love. When bad stuff in life happens He does indeed care for you. He is your best friend if only you would let Him be. Often times, when awful stuff happens and you fear for your future, you might be tempted to run to friends and just get mad at your situation instead of seeking God and praying.

In 1 Corinthians 6:11(NIV) we are reminded 'And that is what some of you were but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God.' Again more wonderful news! Psalm 56:4(NASB) reminds us also that 'In God whose word I praise, In God who I have put my trust, I will not be afraid what mere men can do to me.' I love that, mere men! God is greater and more powerful than any mere man. He is sovereign over all. Remember that.

Even if you have something terrible happen it does not mean it is the end of the world. Now mind you, those reading this who have lost a child or loved one may say there is no way to go on, but God does indeed want us to go on. He has plans and purposes for all things and if you run to Him he will see you through whatever storm or trial in life you are in the midst of.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus thank you for being with me in good times and in not so good times. Sometimes I do not understand why awful stuff has to happen but help me Lord to lean on you and not listen to the lies the enemy puts in my head trying to get me angry at you. You are a God of mercy and truth and I thank you for the many ways you have blessed my life in good times and in bad. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Click on link below and praise God in song:

http://youtu.be/9xPzTSpbYmk

CLOSED DOORS

Sometimes in life things do not happen the way you want them to. You do not get a certain promotion. You are not accepted to a specific school. You decide to change majors and schools. You have to move and say goodbye to good friends. You are running late and almost miss a meeting after being stuck in traffic. Your girlfriend or boyfriend breaks up with you. You are given probation or laid off at work. Seemingly bad things have a way of turning out for the good. A familiar verse is Romans 8:28 which says "All things work together for the good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose."

Things can happen for a reason and you my not understand now but you will see the 'big picture' later. If you are following the Lord He is directing your steps. You should be praying about all decisions you make. Back in the military when I was a member of Officers' Christian Fellowship they would have what was called a 'Pray and Plan' when it was time to decide what to study next in Bible study. You have to trust that God is truly directing your steps.

Proverbs 16:9 says "Man may plan his own way but it is God who directs his steps."  Revelation 3:7 says "These are the words of the one who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open."

You won't be in a valley forever but soon  be on the mountain top. Probably everyone reading this can think of something seemingly awful that happened in your life but later on was a stepping stone of sorts to get you where you are today. I know I can!

So give thanks in all situations as it says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 because God is working behind the scenes. Only trust Him.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for all the different situations in my life. There are good times and there are bad but you  are in control. Help me learn to trust you better and commit my plans to you. In Jesus Name. Amen.

GRADUATES REJOICE AND SEEK HIS WAYS

This time of year in both May and June, depending on the part of the country you reside in, is when many high school and college graduates walk the aisle of a gymnasium, auditorium,  or arena somewhere to receive that long awaited diploma. A huge milestone in life has been reached for them as well as their parents. At the military academies the new officers throw their caps high in the air. Quite a celebration it truly is.

I thought what better time to write about plans for the future, wisdom, and running a race to win. A common Bible verse you often see around this time of year is Jeremiah 29:11 which says " I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future."

Also this is a excellent time to bring up wisdom because those leaving the comfort of the nest of their families are going to need an extra dose of that. Hopefully they will not be too stunned by life outside their parents home. Proverbs 4:7 tells us "Wisdom is the principle thing, therefore get wisdom and in all thy getting get understanding."  James 3:17 says "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without hypocrisy."

 As Christian parents it is our prayer that our children do not leave their faith and start questioning God's word, but sadly, many do. That is where we hang on the promise found in Proverbs 22:6 which reminds us "Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old will not depart from it."  A good memory verse for those leaving home is Proverbs 3:5-6 and it says "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

Life is exciting. There is a saying I heard once that says we as parents have to give our children both 'roots' and 'wings' meaning you don't want to stifle an adult child but you need to let them make their own decisions with them knowing home is always there. Encourage them to be independent of mom and dad and trouble can be avoided down the road.

In closing, 1 Corinthians 9:24 says "Do you not know in a race that all runners run but only one gets the prize? Run  in such a way to get the prize." Encourage your children and those you may mentor to keep their eyes on Jesus no matter what and He will crown their efforts with success.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the Bible which is our guide through life here on earth and later in heaven. Father we pray our children will seek your face and run their race to win. Give them wisdom, courage, and perseverance always. In Jesus name. Amen.

 NOTE: For over 16 years since my sons were in junior high I have been privileged to be a part of a unique and awesome prayer ministry called Moms in Prayer(formerly Moms in Touch) where we pray for the children and schools they attend up through college, career and the military. Check it out at www.momsinprayer.org

CHANGE OF PLANS

This past Friday was something else. First I was about hit head on driving Highway 53 coming into Huntsville. Next I stopped for gas at Kroger and my  car would not restart. A kind gentleman tried to jump it with his jumper cables to no avail. So I waited for my insurance company tow truck service and purposed in my heart to get away from the bad attitude that was swiftly coming upon me.

 What could I do in the midst of this 'plan changer' to show Jesus' love there at the gas pump while waiting for a tow? Be kind and smile for one. At first all I wanted to do is cry. Next, try to  relax. I happened to have some fresh picked strawberries from my farm and since I apparently  could not give them to the person they were intended for since I was now 'stuck' , I decided to bless the female gas station attendant. Who knows, maybe she was having a crummy day and needed that. My attitude  stunk at first. I got mad at the driver who almost ran into me then got upset over my dilemma at the gas pump. So I had a decision.  I chose to let go and let God. In other words to 'Practice what I preach'  and so I did. It sure makes you feel better to remain joyful and not get mad at something you have no control over.

What do you do when life throws you a curve ball? All the best plans in the world are made then am unexpected illness comes, death, job loss, mechanical problem or something else happens. The day this occurred to me was the first anniversary of the killer F5 tornadoes in our area and my thoughts drifted to those people whose lives were totally in chaos that day one year ago. Their homes were gone, possessions destroyed or scattered who knows where and worse yet, many lost their lives.They had a 'new kind of normal' so the saying goes.You can choose to rant and rave and get your blood pressure up or you can choose to say "Lord I want to remain peaceful and let Jesus Love shine through me to those I come in contact with."

Jeremiah 29:11 speaks of plans when it says "For I know the plans   I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper   you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". When it comes to not going crazy when things do not go as planned and choosing to pursue peace instead the Bible says in Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep him in perfect peace,Whose mind is stayed on You,Because he trusts in You". So in other words, trying to purposely not think bad thoughts or "woe is me" thoughts, or "why did this happen" thoughts is the best way to handle this.

Are you able to do this? Everyone has things happen that take us off guard and send life into a a tailspin. It is how we handle them that counts. Choose to look to Jesus for your strength. If you are in a situation similar to mine the other day or worse, say out loud from  Phillipians  4:13 "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength". Yes you can do all things through Christ. Believe it and have a good day!!

PRAYER: Lord help me when trouble comes my way to not act like the rest of the world and pitch a fit but to trust you to see me through my problem. Help me remember when others are watching if I name the name of Jesus I am a witness for you. I want to represent you in a positive light and show peace in the midst of chaos .In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link below and worship the Lord in song.
http://youtu.be/31FuepQj-eo

THE JOURNEY

I am sure you have heard the statement 'life is a journey not a destination'. The story is not over yet. You may be in despair over some situation but it is not over yet. The final chapters are not written. Things happen in life and sometimes we just think we will never get over them. You get overwhelmed and distraught. Do not despair my friend. Your whole story is not over. Do not let the enemy lie to you and make you feel you may as well end it now. You have a purpose and God will do great things with your life if you yield to Him.

Satan is a destroyer and wants you to lose hope. Have no fear. The sun will shine again and things will get better. Storms of life occur and you may fall down but you can be rescued by God and get right back up. Just because you are what the world calls a 'senior citizen' does not mean you are finished so do not even think that way!!

You may wish you had some sort of crystal ball and be able to see ahead. That would probably scare most people. It is a good thing that is impossible to do even though palm readers would tell you otherwise. Only God knows the future.

Jeremiah 29:11 is a good verse of hope and it says " For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Ephesians 3:20 likewise is a verse that is good for the future. It says "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work in us." I'm excited and you should be too!!

PRAYER: Father thank you so much for the plans you have in store for me. Forgive me for times I have not trusted you or worried about some situation and why it had to happen. I want to yield to you and trust you with my future. In Jesus name. Amen.

Click on link and enjoy a tremendous worship song about living for the Lord.
http://youtu.be/oW869_Z73vU

Further reading: Psalm 139

RETIREMENT..NOT IN THE BIBLE

Now I am not trying to create a new sin here by saying if you are retired and out sailing, shame on you. The point is the word retirement and the concept of retirement is a modern day phenomena. It is not mentioned in the Bible. Why should someone who loves their job have to quit and sit in a rocking chair because society has deemed them washed up or too old or ready for their 'golden years'? It is refreshing to me in my travels to meet flight attendants who got hired after the age of 50. Why not? Also two ski instructors I met this winter in Maine were both over 65. Stop saying " I am too old". That negative talk  has to end. You can choose to believe you are of no value and no chance to do anything worthwhile or you can choose to know that God can use you at any age.

Also stop letting society make you feel you are old. Do not be afraid to try things. Do not worry that people will comment on your age. Keep doing things and do not sit in that infamous rocking chair unless you want to. You have many good years in you and the mindset of retiring is a new one created by something in today's world. If you love your job and want to keep at it, so be it. But you have to get the voices out of your head saying that  you are too old. Says who? This is the time to keep going. Take classes. Try new hobbies. Get a part time job somewhere. Volunteer. Help others. Keep active. Go to gym and work out. Stop constantly thinking it is time to retire for "after all I am 60".  60 seems young. People who quit on life and think they are too old will talk themselves into feeling it is time to hang it all up. Retirement then gets to mean "ready to die" to many. It should not!

Proverbs 23:7 says "or as he thinks in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee." You start believing things you keep thinking on. God does not say in His word to go retire and sit in a rocker or to head for the eternal golf course. Older people are simply people with a higher number than you for age. It is only a number. Often times you hear of stories of those who retire and they have no purpose in life and want to return to work. Your purpose should be to still serve the Lord with joy in whatever you do just stop saying "I am too old"!


Many feel they deserve to retire and kick back and do what they want as they have worked hard. Especially in the Armed Forces it is a well deserved honor for the sacrifice and hard work of these men and women. Unlike a civilian job they literally have laid their life on the line.

It is maybe time to visit the grandkids or take a trip or two. That  is fine. God wants to use you no matter where you are in life. The point being is not to be so into self and what you 'deserve' that you forget there are many people out there that could still benefit from your talents and gifts. You can only take so many cruises and play so many rounds of golf till maybe it is time to do something else. I have 'retired' friends who are full time missionaries.

Age should be something to be honored and respected and not poked fun at by comedians. With age comes wisdom and experience. Today we say "70 is the new 60 and 60 is the new 50!" Feel good and be thankful for the years the Lord blesses you with and find ways to bring glory to Him through your life no matter how old or young you are. You were created for a purpose! You are never too old in GOD'S kingdom to be valued and worthy to help those around you.

Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper and not to harm you. Plans to bring you a hope and a future."

You save for the future which is good and you provide for your family generations after you. God has blessed you with wealth but just remember no one says nor does the Bible say you have to retire. Keep going if that is what you want to do. God can use you wherever you are!


PRAYER: Lord God I thank you for each year of life you have blessed me with. I thank you for giving me talents and abilities to help serve others. Thank you for the gift of relaxation and thank you for money to enjoy fun times as well. Help me keep balance in my life so it is not all about me and what I deserve. In Jesus name. Amen!

LOOK FOR GOD'S PURPOSE IN YOUR NEXT INTERRUPTION

There may be a time in your life when something did not go as you would have hoped but eventually turned out greater. God has a plan and sometimes it includes changing our plans, or interruptions. Maybe you can look back on times you were fretting and concerned and in the long run what you were so worried about turned out great. God changed your path and ultimately lets' say you met your future spouse. There is always a reason although we may not see it at that time.

I think of the movie 'The Adjustment Bureau', not a Christian film, but a thought provoking one never the less. In the movie Matt Damon's character was a rising politician who had a 'chance' meeting in NYC with a professional dancer who was not part of his 'plan'. The 'adjustment bureau' were men sent by 'whoever' to try to keep him away from her as it would wreck the ultimate plan for not only his life as a politician but her life as a professional dancer. We know this is Hollywood and not from the Bible but the point sort of was made that each of us has some sort of destiny or as I say it "God has a Purpose".

 The Bible says in Jeremiah 29:11 " For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". In Proverbs 19:21 it says "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."  We can plan a course for our life but before we set out we need to always pray about our decisions.


Proverbs 16:9 tells us "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." 

So wherever you are today be thankful and if it seems wrong just pray and ask God what He has for you and seek to be patient in the process of where He is taking you to.

PRAYER: Lord I thank you for the fact that I know you have a plan and purpose for my life. Forgive me for the times I have tried to manipulate things to change the outcome. Help me trust you for what is best and be at peace. In Jesus Name. Amen,.

PIT STOPS FROM GOD

Has anything ever happened in your life and you get  upset and wonder why God isn't answering your prayers? Sometimes He has a different plan than what your plan is and perhaps tells you in a round about way it is time to take a 'pit stop' for a while. For anyone who has watched a NASCAR race on TV you see the race cars can not continue forever. They have to eventually pull into the 'pit' so the crew can hurriedly check them out and get them on the road again. This 'servicing' is necessary to keep them running and operating at their peak performance. Sometimes things happen in life and we wonder why. Then  on down the road we understand why. The answers are not always right before our face. Sometimes something seemingly bad turns out to be just what was needed to get you on the path God had for you.

Isaiah 55:18 says "for my thoughts are not your thoughts and neither are your ways my ways says the Lord." Jeremiah 29:11 is familiar to many and it says " for I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Proverbs 3:5-6 says " trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Matthew 6:33 tells us to " seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto us."

Are you putting God first? Do you start the day with prayer and reading His word?  If we keep ignoring Him how do we expect to know the path He wants us to stay on?

Isaiah 43:19 says "behold I am  doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." What a wonderful verse for hope and promise.
Where are you at today? Do you believe God has  a wonderful plan for your life if only you will trust Him and follow Him?  Proverbs 16:9 says "God can plan His way but only God can order his steps".  Whatever is happening in your life today whether good or bad trust God to get you through and look to him for guidance. Man can plan his way but God orders his steps.

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for guiding my steps and picking me up when I fall. Forgive me when I have gone my own way or been mad when things seemingly went sour. You know the 'big picture' and as the saying goes ' the end of the story is not written yet.' You have a plan for my life and help me not compare myself to someone else and want what they have.  Thank you for where you have me in my life today. in Jesus name. Amen.