Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Don't Underestimate God

Jeremiah 32:27 -- "I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?"

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I believe that we often underestimate God. We focus on all that we can't do and our limitation and forget that with God, all things are possible (Philippians 4:13).

God created the world we live in, he knows all the ins and outs of it. He knows the nature of people and is aware of the evil in the world. Nothing is going to surprise Him or overwhelm God.

However, it often surprises and overwhelms me, that is when I turn it over to God. I know I can't handle it and to be honest, the evil in this world frightens me. But I put my trust in God to guide and guard me -- nothing is too hard for God.

Don't underestimate God. He has a plan for you -- if you are willing to walk with Him, you will begin to see that plan unfold and take shape. There are many things you and I are unable to accomplish alone, but with God, it is all possible.

So do whatever has been on your mind and heart to do that you were afraid to do. It might be sharing the Word, inviting people to church or other activities, getting involved, even getting less involved to refocus, get motivated or stand still in the presence of the Lord. We are all unique individuals in different seasons of life. With that comes different challenges and goals. God will put on your heart what you should step out in faith to accomplish -- with God all things are possible.

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Wordless Wednesday *Linky* Painting the Night Away



I painted that! I can't believe it! I'm trying to learn how to paint currently, so my husband and I had a date night at a "social studio." Basically the artist walks you through the painting step by step and you paint making it your own. It was a great night! And I am so happy with my picture! I can't believe I painted that. The studio I went to is called "Bottles 'n Brushes."

Link up and join in the Wordless Wednesday fun!
 Tales From A Mother - Daily Devotionals 

My Guardian, My Guide

2 Thessalonians 3:3 -- "But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one."

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From day to day, I cover a wide variety of topics with this devotional. Many of these include a challenge to bring change, expand your mind and grow through Christ.

It  can all be overwhelming. Among all the day to day challenges you are encouraged to focus on God in all circumstances, pray constantly, watch out for the devil, not stumble on the temptations of this world or cause others to stumble. Yes, overwhelming it can seem because these are only a few of the things to think about and remember as you go through daily life.

However, there is hope, as there always is in Christ Jesus. He knows that we are human asnd we will fall short from time to time, perhaps fairly often. But he still loves us and he covers our sins if we believe, in faith, that he can.

The most important thing to know, that will help you through the rest, is that God is always with you. If we are faithful to him, if we keep trying, repenting and seeking Him out, He is faithful to us. He will strengthen and guard you from the devil and the evil of this world. You are not alone and you don't have to fulfill these daily challenges alone -- in fact you can't. God is here to guard and guide you. He gives us people to challenge us and help us as well.

Many times, in the Bible, God says "Do not be afraid." There is no need to fear, or worry, when God is guarding your back through the good times and the bad. Communicate with Him and praise Him because He is Almighty and will help you navigate all the challenges this world can dish out.

Monday, June 3, 2013

Don't Wear Yourself Out

Proverbs 23:4-5 -- "Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle."

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Are you over working yourself? Do you spend time with your family and loved ones? Do you know what is going on with them? Do they know what is going on with you? Do you spend your time with relationships or with work? Have you checked your motives recently?

You have to work hard to provide for your family -- that is a fact, well known in society and a curse to endure in this fallen world. It used to be mainly plowing fields or herding livestock, but now it is more and more often spending long hours in an office building away from the house and family.

However, there is a point where you have to say enough. If you are making the effort, God will provide what you need. It may not be everything you want or even everything you think you deserve, but you will have food, water, shelter and clothes.

Our days are fleeting. Your children aren't going to care if they grew up in a big house or had the newest car if they have you. We can't keep money and we can't keep things -- what we can keep are relationships and memories. If you don't have a relationship with your spouse, your kids, with God. The money just doesn't matter.

Think about it -- do you know when to quit? Ask God for help, you don't have to do it alone.

Sunday, June 2, 2013

2 Corinthians (Bible in 90 Days)

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Paul writes another letter the church in Corinth. They listened to his last letter and were growing stronger as a church and people.

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Corinth had a problem with false teachers. Paul wrote this letter to defend his ministry and title as an apostle. He spends time validating his message to the people. He also talks about looking out for others who are less fortunate and finding strength in God.

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2 Corinthians 12:9-10 -- “Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weakness, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
 Tales From A Mother - Daily Devotionals