Tag Archives: peace

Day 18: Little

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31 Days of Five Minute Friday Free Writes

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)

Day 18: Little

Not long ago, on a fall get-away and a whim, we turned into the parking lot of the “Smallest Church in 48 States.” Stepping into the tiny sanctuary, such a sense of God’s presence immediately permeated my soul. There was a reverent silence within those walls. Soft light filtered through the stained glass windows creating a red glow that flowed across the floor at the alter beneath the cross. A coincidence? I think not. Sitting in a miniature pew I felt God’s peace saturate all of that little space. 

Experiencing God’s presence and peace in my “normal-sized” church happens regularly. Standing in the shadow of a large mountain, at the edge of the vast ocean, or amongst a sweeping forest, I expect to sense God there in the midst of his grand design. But, in a roadside attraction touting its small size? Encountering our BIG God there, took me by surprise.

I’m afraid I’ve been shortsighted in the same way before. When going through major happenings in life (many that throw us for a loop) I take those big cares right to God. After all, He is the no height, width, breadth, depth, east from west God! But, when it comes to little things? I’ve questioned whether our omniscient, omnipotent God has time for those. Things like my lost keys, a stomach ache, vacation plans, missing birds from my feeders, car trouble, or a multitude of other minute details. Maybe you’ve wondered too? Here’s what I’m learning:

“Do not be anxious about anything; but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Philippians 4:6 (NIV emphasis mine)

Did you catch that? Paul teaches us not to worry, and I’m going to add not to wonder, about anything. And he says, instead take everything, tremendous and tiny, to God in prayer. Isn’t that amazing? We expect God to listen to our monumental needs, but our little ones? That can take us by surprise. But, when we think about it, it really shouldn’t because after all, Jesus came as a little baby, He compared faith with a grain of mustard seed, fed the five thousand with meager loaves and fish, and used a widow and her two small mites as an example of commendable giving. He is the last is first, poor is rich, least is great, God! And it doesn’t stop there:

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

I love how God works? My experience with Him in the “Smallest Church in 48 States” has reminded me, and I hope you too, that He meets us anywhere about anything. Big or little, God invites us to turn to Him not on a whim, but in prayer and thanksgiving. And when we step into His presence? We will feel God’s peace saturate every little space of our being. 

 

Days 10/11: Between and Idea

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31 Days of Five Minute Friday Free Writes

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” Matthew 16:24 (NIV)

Days 10/11: Between and Idea

We spent this weekend visiting family. It’s always hard to leave and today was no different. Traveling toward home we reminisced about the fun we’d had, planned for the week ahead, and enjoyed the beautiful scenery passing by outside the window. When we pulled away this morning our intention was to make the four hour trip straight through to home with only a short stop for a bite to eat, but about midway I was asked to think about altering our route.

I’ve written before of my dislike for change. Big changes or little, makes no difference to me; I’m not a fan. My mind had already set its navigation course toward home. My timetable was in place. I was comfortable with it all so why modify anything? After all, if we got home as planned there were things we could get done. But, that little voice inside my head (who I often try to mute) urged me to say, “yes” to veering off the beaten path and taking an unexpected jaunt. And I’m so thankful we did!

The tires crunched as we turned onto the gravely, leaf covered road and for a moment I just wanted to turn around but… I soon discovered that someplace between where we’d been and where we were going, beauty, peace, and joy awaited. Oh, what I might have missed! Bright, fall leaves dancing against the backdrop of a crystal-blue sky, the relaxing song of the gently flowing river, and crisp air tempered by the afternoon sunshine all would have missed had I chosen to stick to my own agenda. Not to mention, the gift of sharing God’s beauty and extra time with one another! And to think I almost missed it all.

The idea of sticking to our own agendas despite hearing a voice that says otherwise isn’t a new one. Matthew tells us in chapter 9, verses 57-62 about some men who are called to follow Jesus but whose minds were set on their own course and did not want to deviate from it. Oh, they had good reasons for not wanting to change directions, but, what would they miss as a result? Verse 10:16 answers that question. Matthew reports that those who turned onto the rough road of being a disciple, “returned with joy.”

Another person who I can relate to is Martha. Like me, she was very good at seeing all that needed to to get done instead of stopping to listen.

“Her sister, Mary, went and sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him teach. meanwhile Martha was anxious about all the hospitality arrangements.
Martha: Lord, why don’t You care that my sister is leaving me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to get over here and help me.
Jesus: Oh Martha, Martha, you are so anxious and concerned about a million details, but really, only one thing matters. Mary has chosen that one thing, and I won’t take it away from her.”
Luke 10:39-41 (The Voice)

A call to volunteer. A plea for prayer. A little voice asking for a story to be read. An offer to attend church on Sunday morning.  An invitation to spend time with those we love. A request to mentor a young person. A prompting to witness to others. How many times have I, have we, silenced Jesus’ voice and missed out as He’s called us to take a “jaunt” with Him because of a “million little details” we think are important? Here’s what I’m reminded, someplace between where we’ve been and where we’re going, there are opportunities for finding beauty, peace, and joy when we say, “yes” instead. Let’s not let our calendars, watches, or our own plans keep us on the beaten path, rather, let’s turn onto the One Way, the Only Way that really matters. There’s no doubt we‘ll be grateful we did!

Peace ~ Day 3 of 31-Day Writing Challenge

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“From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised.” Psalm 113:3 (NIV)

The Walk

A long day at war with worry and fear,
Little boy squabbles, and
Needs far and near.

Head is pounding. Thoughts running wild.
Tears threaten to spill, Lord
Do you see me, Your child?

Shoes on feet. Helmet on head.
“The evening is calling us
Let’s take a walk before bed.”

Step after step, labored and slow.
Boys on bikes buzz by
Leaving a trail of laughter as they go.

Longing for an answer, I lift up my eyes
Turn the corner. Stopped in my tracks.
An unexpected surprise!

There in every hue of His love
God’s peace painted for me
Across the sky above.

Finish our stroll bathed in pink light.
A beautiful reminder
We’re never out of His sight.

“MiMi, the sky!” I hear them say.
Smiling, I thank God He is with me,
And that tomorrow’s a new day.

“I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies.” Psalm 57:9-10 (NIV)

Spacious Place

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Spacious Place

There are lots of things we’re afraid of and try to avoid. For me, a big one is any seemingly small, tight spot. Whether it’s a cave, elevator, crowded room, or even a kayak, when I feel trapped, anxiety sets in. I quickly feel short of breath and my heart races. Maybe you know just what I mean! That’s why this has become one of my favorite verses in Scripture. As a gal who needs plenty of room, the thought of God bringing me to a SPACIOUS place is such a comfort!

In this time of living lives that have suddenly become small and confined, it’s easy to find ourselves feeling bound in the uncertainty, a need to escape the overcrowded media, and breathlessly awaiting some sense of control to return. If you’re feeling hard pressed today, join me in crying out to God and letting Him show our troubled hearts the spacious place of His love. Let us be reminded to breathe deeply in His presence, exchanging our fears, for the freedom of peace that only He can give.
Amen

As we begin another week of social distancing, what verses of scripture are you clinging to? Encourage us by sharing them in the comments!

Active ~ Day 18 ~ 31Days2019

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“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you. Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) / Pixabay

Active

There’s a place I know that’s open just about 24/7. Songs play over and over there, stories are created, and conversations take place at all hours. The murky, dark corners are reserved for reliving and revealing fears and failures. It’s a busy and chaotic place! And…it’s my mind.

Having an active imagination is a good thing when playing with your children or grandchildren, planning lessons for your students, or brainstorming ideas at work, church, or home. But, when we (I) let that energy propel us to worry, anxiety, regret, and all those other bad “customers” who lurk about in the recesses, we find ourselves longing for the “bouncer” to come throw them out! And then, He does!

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT) *emphasis mine

This is the reminder I need!  Maybe you do too. My mind is open for business morning, noon, and night. Thoughts whirl and twirl like they’re in the middle of the dance floor. With some, I want to join and keep in step. Others…well, I’d rather sit those out. I’m learning that when we choose ** God to guard our minds, we can leave the noisy free-for-all behind and find instead a place of peace.

Philippians 4 goes on to say:

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.  Think about things that are excellent and worth of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me-everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9 (NLT)

I chose these verses as my theme this month because it is my hope as I ponder on everyday life and write these posts, I do try earnestly to fix my mind on those excellent things and offer to you what I’m learning along the way. And if it resonates with you, we can together, encourage and remind one another to clean out those dingy corners where Satan likes to hide and let the Light bring peace of mind there instead. Then, gratefully we can be “open for the business” that God has for us and actively share with others all He has exceedingly done!

This post is written as part of the 31 Days of Five Minute Friday Free Writes Challenge. You can read posts from other writers on the same topics over at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com I hope you know that I so appreciate you being here! God bless, Cindy

 

 

Night ~ Day 7 ~ #Write28Days

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“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8 (NLT)/ Pixabay

Night Time Conversations

I talk a lot AND I talk loudly.  I try not to, honest I do! But, telling stories, giving advice, asking questions, answering questions….you name it…. I tend to foam at the mouth! I just can’t seem to help myself!  Now sometimes, I actually talk so others can hear, (sorry family and friends) but more often than not, the voice dominating the conversation is the one inside my very own head. And unfortunately, her favorite time to chat is in the middle of the night! Anyone else know what I’m talking about?

Often, I’m not sure why, I wake up around 3:00 A.M. Would you believe she’s already conversing before I even have one eye open? The words spew quickly, bouncing around and echo loudly in my mind.  It wouldn’t be so bad if they were uplifting messages, confident affirmations, and organized plans, however, these conversations in the dark are quite the opposite!

Her night time monolog reminds me of disappointing failures, overwhelms me with worries, offers frightening diagnoses, and casts doubt where I have harbored hope. She taunts and ridicules, frightens and shames. Try as I might to silence the voice,  the froth of her words spume forth engulfing my peace and make the night seem darker.

“This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” 1 John 1:5 (NLT)

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” John 1:5 (NLT)

It’s likely that the voice of darkness in each of us will continue to try and be the keynote speaker anytime it can, but I’m learning that whether it’s in the middle of the night or anytime at all, we can choose to either dwell in the words spoken from the murky places of our minds or we can invite God into the conversation and rest in His message of truth and light.

“Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:7 (NLT)

When we allow God to mute the disparaging dialog we speak to ourselves and let Him become the Guard of our minds, we will finally experience a truly peaceful night’s sleep and wake refreshed to welcome the light of a brand new day! Now that’s worth having a conversation about!

 

I’m popping in and out when I can at http://www.anitaojeda.com for the #Write28Days Challenge.  If you’d like to read the creative posts of other writers just click on over there!

 

 

 

Moment ~ Day 26 ~ 31 Days of Five Minute Free Writes

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 This post is part of the October 2018 Edition of 31 Days of Five Minute Free Writes. I hope you”ll join me in seeing where each prompt takes us.
 P.S. Just so you know, I’m finding it difficult to stick to five minutes (**) and it may take me longer than the 31 days to finish all the prompts. Not easy for this rule follower!
You can read more 31 Days entries at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com

Take a Moment

“But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in a blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And those who are living will also be transformed.” 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 / Pixabay

Take a moment. Close your eyes, quiet your mind and focus your thoughts on all that is important to you.  A tragedy has once again reminded me that it only takes a moment, a split second, for our lives and all those things we just thought of, to forever change. We’re pretty good at moving through our days as if we are invincible, but then in an instant the doctor stops us in our tracks with an unwanted diagnosis, we lose our balance when someone we trust betrays us, we sink in despair when our finances fail, or we’re shattered when a loved one is taken away too soon. The truth is, there are so many painful scenarios that in a blink of an eye turn our lives upside down, break our hearts wide open, and cause our souls  to cry out for relief.

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me.  Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.  But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NLT) Continue reading →