Gentle Whisper Ministries

In the hustle and bustle, and muck and mess, of life do you hear what I hear? A Gentle Whisper

Twenty-Five Verses

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A thought occurred to me today as I was browsing in the Christian bookstore. I ran in to pick up an item that has been on my list for a few months now, and with a 40% off coupon it was going to finally be in my possession. So I thought. Funny how we have an item in mind that we want, and when the time finally comes to get it we realize – I don’t think I need it at this moment. But, with a 40% off coupon I was determined to get something so I could just use my coupon.

My feet became planted in front of the New Testament Commentaries. My eyes scanned the shelves, all the editions, books, and titles. I picked a few up, looked inside as if to look for colorful illustrations, or scripted scenes, but none would say “You can’t live without me.” Ok, before anyone gets judgmental. I am a huge proponent of study materials. I have more than I actually use. And, I already have a set of commentaries. But still I wondered, which one would grab my attention? Which one would I use my 40% coupon on?

This questions will most likely be geared to the ladies. Have you ever had a coupon that you just wanted to use? You didn’t really need anything from the store, you just wanted to use the coupon? If so, then girlfriend you and I do not need to go to the store together. We would talk each other into buying something we didn’t even need – just to use the coupon.

Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been reading in the book of Jude. It is hidden in the pages towards the back sandwiched between 3 John and Revelation. If you’re not careful you can miss it. Jude is only 1 chapter with 25 verses.

That short book is packed full of wisdom, insight, encouragement, warning, and instruction. For those of us that like short messages Jude is perfect! Basically, he gets to the point.

As I continue to scan the commentaries my eyes travel back to Jude. I noticed that some of the commentaries combined Jude with other books. Yet, in the New Testament Jude stands alone with 25 verses. Combined with no one. Jude is Jesus’s half-brother. You may have known that. I don’t think I ever did until a couple of weeks ago.  That’s the awesomeness of God’s word there is a new revelation every time you read and study.

I couldn’t stand in the store any longer, I had a list of things to do and needed to make a decision. What do I buy with my coupon? I had a new bible study in my hands. The coupon did not apply to that. It was my last circle around the store to see if there was anything else that would jump off the shelf and say “take me home!” As I browsed another section I felt in my spirit, that’s what Jude is. In twenty-five verses on a page right before the Book of Revelation stood the last attempt for Christians to stand firm for Christ.

God used the one that grew up with Jesus as a big brother to give the last warning against false teachers. Jude instructs us to defend the gospel. I wonder if he wrote from experience growing up, did he have to defend his older brother? Did he have to go toe to toe with naysayers? How do we defend the gospel if we don’t read and study it?

Jude had a 40% off coupon and instead of getting what he set out to get, he changed his tune.

“Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.” Jude 3 NLT

With that thought I put my coupon away and headed for the register to purchase my new bible study. My thoughts scanned those twenty-five verses and as Jude reminds his audience about the past and the results that were related.

“So I want to remind you, though you already know these things, that Jesus…” Jude 5

I was reminded:

  • He has entrusted me.
  • He has entrusted me with this blog.
  • He has entrusted me to share my stories, my hurts, and hang-ups.
  • He has entrusted me to rebuild.

Has He entrusted you? If so, to what?

 “But you, my dear friends, must remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ said…” Jude 17

Jude is referencing false teachers and those that will try to deter you from the gospel. Who is it that is trying to deter you? Who is it that when you are trying to study, or read, they distract you? Who is it that tells you God’s word is outdated?

As I paid for my bible study I realized that Jude was preparing me. Preparing me for what is yet to come. The title of my new study is “Entrusted” by Beth Moore. Her study will have us in 2 Timothy, yet I will bring Jude along with me.

As for my 40% off coupon, well, it went in the trash. I left with something far better than I had in mind -the remembrance of being entrusted.

If you too have been entrusted I encourage you to read Jude’s twenty-five verses. I challenge you to memorize them, and be prepared as you stand firm to defend the faith of Christ Jesus!

“…for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News.” Phil. 1:16b NLT

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by printablecolorpages, spanishdict, coolcatteacher

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With Greater Determination

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It’s been a good weekend. Peaceful. One of those weekends where you can get a lot done. What makes it better is that I was able to hit the path I used to walk on while unemployed. God and I had some good conversations on that long walk.

This weekend I revisited that path, and I discovered God was still there. Today my journey forward on the path had me looking back over the last 3 years. A lot happened in that time.

  • One career ended
  • the possibility of another one began, then ended
  • the blog was birthed
  • the blog crashed and then restored
  • part time seasonal jobs came and went.

The past and the present were uniting as my mind replayed the events. One word kept resurfacing.

Rebuild.

Rebuild what? That was my initial thought. And I asked, “don’t you mean build?” Apparently not because the word appeared again.

Rebuild.

To build is to begin something new. When we build we have hopes, dreams, and expectations. But, when we rebuild we are putting something back together. I looked up the definition of rebuild. Trusting on the reliable source of Google it said, “build (something) again after it has been damaged or destroyed.” Damaged or destroyed.

Nehemiah then flashed across my thoughts. He was a cup-bearer to the king in Babylon. He held the position that was between the king and death. He was trusted. He was a Jew that was taken from his home in Jerusalem, and now lived in exile in Babylon. He had learned his home was in ruins.

“They said to me, “Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down and the gates have been destroyed by fire.” Neh. 1:3 NLT

Rebuild.

When we rebuild things are different than they were before the damage or destruction. At the beginning of 2012, my life was on track. I had a goal, work was good, and I earned a good living. I always lived frugally so savings were good. God had blessed me. And then, it happened.

In the fall of 2012 was the beginning of the decent. Careers came and went, I had no idea what I was supposed to do, and slowly my savings was declining. Little did I know then it would decline all the way to the end. On my walk God showed me through my memories the contrast between then and now.

When Nehemiah had left Jerusalem the wall was up. I’m sure there was some damage because the Babylonians had invaded Jerusalem and taken articles from the temple.

“Then his army burned the temple of God, tore down the walls of Jerusalem, burned all the palaces, and completely destroyed everything of value.” 2 Chron. 36:19 NLT

After some time had passed Nehemiah received word that the city was in great distress. Of course it was, the wall had been torn down. The wall served as protection keeping invaders out. The people were left vulnerable to attacks.

My mind replayed the events when the news reported all the people that had lost everything in the great recession. When people lost homes, savings, and jobs. At that time, I had only heard of stories. Thankfully, I did not lose my home, but over the three years my savings evaporated. I would find myself in adopting the way I lived in my early twenties when I was just beginning in my career. Like millions of others the time had arrived.

Rebuild.

Many had lost their protection. Before you decide to email me I am not saying my protection came from money. I am not saying their protection came from things.  I am not saying the Jews protection came from a wall. I am saying with a savings account you have some leeway for emergencies. With a home, you have protection from the elements, living in a car, or on the streets. And, with a wall you have protection from invaders. They are means, not the end.

There is a wall that needs rebuilding and Nehemiah is the one to lead the people to do it. With rebuilding there is more work required, than with building. When Nehemiah had the wall rebuilt God had people help him. The people of Jerusalem had rallied and each took a specific section. When it’s time to rebuild others will help (Neh. 3).

“They replied at once, “Yes let’s rebuild the wall! So they began the good work.” Neh. 2:18b NLT

God prepares the hearts of individuals that will help with the rebuilding. While Nehemiah and the others were rebuilding the wall they had to also keep watch for invaders. Their task was three fold.

  • Work on the wall
  • Keep watch
  • Stay focused

While they were working on the wall opposition meet them face to face. Their excitement turned to exasperation. Their delight to despair. Others had Oppose, mocked, and ridiculed, them in an effort to deter their efforts.

“They all made plans to come and fight against Jerusalem and throw us into confusion.” Neh. 4:8 NLT

When that happened they prayed to God, complained, and doubted. When I read that I chucked, I found that to be true in my life. The sigh of relief came after that I am not alone. Many times I have prayed, complained, and doubted, all in the same breath.

“Then the people of Judah began to complain…we can’t do it…they will attack us!” Neh. 4:10-12 NLT

With rebuilding there is more work. We have to stay focused. I can’t think about all the things I used to do. I can only think of what God can do with what I have now.

When we rebuild like the Jews in Jerusalem we have to keep going. Stay focused, and when opposition comes echo the words of Nehemiah –

“Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for…!” Neh. 4:14 NLT

I left the end of that verse off because I want to ask you – what are you fighting for? What are you rebuilding? Whatever it is you can fill in the end of the verse. For me, I am rebuilding what was damaged. Thus far it is a slow process, but I know I will get there. And when opposition comes to try and deter me, I will proclaim –

“They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued to work with greater determination.” Neh. 6:9 NLT

My encouragement will come from Nehemiah’s efforts! Did you catch the last two words? Greater determination. We must have greater determination when we rebuild. The work will be harder.

If you are rebuilding whether it be personally, professionally, or both, be encouraged! Let us use Nehemiah as an example and have greater determination. Whether you are just beginning, half-way there, or almost done:

Rebuild.

Whether you have to end and begin all over again, be encouraged.

Rebuild.

 “So on October 2* the wall was finished – just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.” Neh. 6:15 NLT

There is an end, and in that end God will receive his credit due. Keep going. Don’t give up. Stay focused and –

Rebuild my friend, Rebuild.

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by catt, presteriarchive, thisoldhoue, pinterest

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The Best Invitation

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My day began at 5:30am. I didn’t want to wake up that early. Try as I might I just couldn’t go back to sleep. I have to be up early for work during the week so on Saturday I try to get a little more than 30 minutes of extra sleep. Don’t you just hate that? All week you have to be up early for work, and Saturday comes and you think – yes! I can sleep in a little longer.  However, as I shuffled downstairs to turn my coffee pot on, I thanked God for waking me up another day.

A few things have been swirling around in my mind lately. That can either be a good thing, or very dangerous, depending on the topic at hand. This time my thoughts served as a reminder for me, and today God tied the past to the present. He is so good!

There’s a new book out by an author, and speaker, that I follow on social media, Lysa Terkeurst. Her book is called “Uninvited.” When I saw that my thoughts immediately turned to “I should have written that.” However, God knows what He’s doing, and I didn’t need to write it because He was moving me out of the arena of being uninvited. I have not read her new book, and as of now don’t plan on reading it. I’m sure it’s good.

Being up so early I decided to go for a walk. While walking my thoughts turned to her book and then it was contrasted by the picture of my parents with their great-grandkids over July 4th. Immediately God showed me that my dad was displaying what it looks like when God choose us, and includes us. When God grafts us in.

“You didn’t choose Me. I choose you.” Jn. 15:16a NLT

We had a family reunion over July 4th week and all of us had gathered together at the lake. A few days before we would all meet I was informed that my brother would be bringing a new person. The foster child he and my sister-in-law were in the process of taking in. Along with that, three more people that were not in the family lineage would be joining us. Then I thought nothing of it. My family is very welcoming. We invite others to holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just to hang out. We realize that not everyone may have somewhere to go. I think my dad instilled that in me. He was always talking to someone. He never met a stranger.

But Lysa’s book “Uninvited,” triggered memories for me. Just a short time ago, I was the one that was uninvited. No, not by my family. Holidays, parties, events, I was not invited. This was the way it was and all involved knew – uninvited. Time after time I would hold out hope, and wish. But, things remained unchanged. I was the one. Uninvited.

If that has ever been you. I can relate. It’s no fun. Feelings of inferiority and loneliness, made to feel unimportant, or kept as an outcast. It does not matter what a person says – it’s what they do. Actions will always speak louder.

I have let it go. I focus on other things – my goals, work, family, and the plans God has for my life. Yet today, a title of a book resurrected the feelings of just a short time back. The pace of my walk slowed as I could feel the weight of the memories pressing on me. But God, being the faithful Father he is, quickly moved the picture I mentioned earlier into my mind’s eye. Then spoke to my spirit.

“I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father.” Jn. 16:25 NLT

The picture was taken on July 4th, and prior to the trip I had purchased t-shirts from Old Navy for all the kids. We would all be dressed in unison. This included props for the kids – sunglasses. That morning, the air was just right. The lake was calm, and the trees stood at attention, as all the kids gathered around them by the fire pit. I was gathering the great-grandchildren for the picture and my dad immediately interrupts and says, “All the kids come over here! All kids come on.” That would include my brother’s foster son, and the two other children that were with us. Only the foster child and one of the two joined in. At once all the kids had their props on, everyone was positioned, and it was all smiles from right to left. Everyone was included. My dad says, “That’s how it should be everyone is included.” My dad had grafted them in. In that picture we were one family. Everyone was invited.

With that God spoke to my spirit and said, “you may have been excluded in your life in the past, but I have included you. I invited you, and you came.” If you’ve ever been excluded, kept out, or shunned, friend I’m here to tell you – Christ invites you.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Mt. 11:28 ESV

My dad is not Christ, but for that moment God gave me a little glimmer of what Christ does when he includes us and grafts us in. My dad was the perfect example. When Christ calls us he invites us to be part of His family.

“And you Gentiles … have been grafted in.” Ro. 11:17a NLT

In the past when my feelings were hurt, and disregarded, God says –

“At the place where they were told, ‘You are not my people, there they will be called ‘children of the Living God.” Ro. 9:26NLT

Today God reminded me that of all the times I was uninvited – He had already given me the best invitation! The invitation to be part of His family!

“It is he who saved us and chose us for his holy work not because we deserved it but because that was his plan long before the world began—to show his love and kindness to us through Christ.” 2 Ti. 1:9 TLB

So friend, if that’s you today. If you are:

  • Uninvited
  • Excluded
  • Made to feel less than
  • Feeling left out

Please let me give you some reassurance that people may treat you like that, but you have a Heavenly Father that loves you, includes you, and will always invite you.

“I’ll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Jer. 29:11 MSG

© Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by ebay, dreamstime

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Over the Radar

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Credit. Some of you may immediately think of debt when you see that word. But what if I said, “recognition”?  Now, credit takes on a different meaning.

This past week I have went back and forth with “credit” at work. We are told, as Christians, we should not boast except to boast in the Lord.

“But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the LORD who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the LORD, have spoken!” Jer. 9:24 NLT

The flip side of that is take credit for what you’ve done. Those of you that work in Corporate America know exactly what I am talking about. The bigger the company, the more you have to toot your own horn.  Especially if you want to climb the ladder to the top.

My philosophy has been “fly under the radar.” Before you form an opinion as to my being unmotivated, or just collecting a paycheck. That’s not so. Those that are reading this and know me will attest to the fact, I can’t sit still. I enjoy working on projects from inception to conception. I’ve had the position, the title, and all the perks that come with it. As well as the headaches, stress, and long hours. Over the radar means “all eyes on you.” To me “under the radar” indicates less stress and pressure to perform. For me, I have more breathing room, and the boundaries are expanded a little more.

This week I’ve asked myself, as a Christian are we to “fly under the radar”? Some of you may automatically say “NO! Absolutely not!” But, then I ask “what about the missionaries serving in countries where you will be imprisoned, or killed, for being a Christian and flying over the radar”?

Does that change your answer to “fly under the radar”? Some of you may say “no. My answer remains the same.” I applaud you. For me, I’d like to say that, and I probably could because I, nor any of my loved ones are in that position. But, if we were my answer could be different.

“John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light.” Jn. 1:8 NLT

One of my co-workers who recently resigned “flew above the radar.” I only knew her for a few short months, and knew she was my sister in Christ when I first met her. We can automatically tell when we meet a brother or sister in Christ. They have a certain glow about them, and their personality is magnetic.  It has to be to attract others to Christ.

During her time there she would send out daily motivational emails first thing in the morning. There was a rather large group of us that were on the distribution. When I first began to receive the email I saw the list and thought “Whoa! Lord, there are that many Christians working here!” I work for a small company and the list seemed like it included half the staff. Amazing! Every morning I looked forward to seeing the email, it set the tone for the work day.

Until the morning we all saw the same email “I have been told I cannot send these out any longer.” Above the radar, she was noticed. Yes, I realize it was company email. I realize it is for work purposes only. Please don’t get lost in the means.

“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”  Isa. 40:31 NLT

You could almost hear the gasp in unison when each of us, at our desks, read those 11 words. Now, she did not resign because of that. God brought her to a better opportunity. Her time and purpose had been utilized there. The encouraging emails that served as a reminder to each of us that God loves us, is with us, and guides us, were to be no more.

“For He chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.” Eph. 1:11b NLT

Yesterday I inherited her company jacket she left behind. She was on a different team than me, and I don’t know why the person thought of me. Well I do. But, there were plenty of others that did not have a company jacket that would have liked it.

The jacket that covered my sister “over the radar” now hangs on my chair, and I wonder – is the jacket the baton? Is it my turn to be “over the radar”? To be the new voice that encourages, motivates, and inspires, my brothers and sisters to forge on and be the light for Christ.

Is it your turn to be “over the radar” where you are? Not for personal gain, or promotion, but to inspire, motivate, and encourage, others for Christ.

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day is of his return is drawing near” Heb. 10:24 NLT

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by wallpaperspoint, greenbacktaxservice, christmasstockimage

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Small but Mighty

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Have you ever been planning your week ahead, and you get a flashback from the last week?

It happened to me today. As I was working on my social media posts one word came to me – Gideon. Last week I finished a new hire class. It was a small class. Only four people. They all united as one though and worked together well. They became a team. While they are in training I am their manager, and their numbers reflect on me.

The class before was a large group about 4 times the size. And the one before about equal. They were a lean machine that by God’s grace I pushed to excel. And, before they left to go to their respective teams with God’s guidance they were 2nd place on the floor against the experienced ones.

With each class I have the practice of praying for their success, that God would show himself strong, and all the glory would go to Him. Faced with a team of four – I prayed harder. That they would be small but mighty! I had a team of four, against four teams of 18. We were the smallest and weakest.

Gideon is found in Judges chapter six. He is an Israelite that was in captivity by the Midianites. The Midianites were cruel, and withheld food from the Israelites.

“The Midianites were so cruel that the Israelites made hiding places for themselves in the mountains, caves, and strongholds.” Judg. 6:2NLT

Until one day Gideon was pressing wheat while he was hiding, and an angel appeared to him and said “he is a mighty hero, and will rescue Israel” Judg. 6:12-16. Gideon was dumbfounded (using today’s language). He was the smallest and weakest. How could this be?

Gideon had confirmation from God and gathered his army of 32,000 men. But God said –

“You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.” Judg. 7:2 NLT

Gideon’s army of 32,000 men soon went to 10,000. The others went back home because they were afraid. Having only 10,000 left God still said – that’s too many. Can you imagine the look on Gideon’s face? Better yet can you imagine the fear that may have been welling up within him? He was to take an army and fight the Midianites. They were very large and powerful.

My first two classes were of equal ground with the teams on the floor. With each one they finished their time with me giving the Sr. teams a run for their money. This last team was different. There were four. How would we compete?

From the 10,000 men with Gideon God had determined who would fight and who would go home. After a demonstration at the river bank involving a technique to drink water Gideon’s army was dwindled to 300 men. With his army of 300 Gideon pressed on and entered into battle. All eyes would be on Gideon. Although they should be on God Israel had wandered from God and their focus would be on Gideon and his army. Have you been there? Faced with a giant task with dwindling resources?

“As soon as I and those with me blow the rams’ horns, blow your horns, too, all around the entire camp, and shout, ‘For the LORD and for Gideon!” Judg. 7:18 NLT

All eyes on Gideon, could he pull this off? All eyes on me and my team of four, how would they fare against the experienced teams?

As last week progressed my team of four began to dwindle. I know you’re thinking – dwindle? Yes. I went to three, then two. The business person in me said, “well it happens.” Thankfully my spirit took over and gave me the words to say – God you did it with Gideon. He was small but mighty. He had an army of 300 and defeated an army of 120,000+! If you did it then you certainly can do it now.

Gideon and his army of 300 had rescued Israel from the Midianites. God used the smallest and the weakest to conquer the powerful. All eyes should have been on God.

“That is the story of how the people of Israel defeated Midian, which never recovered.” Judg. 8:28a NLT

Then on Friday, the last day, my team of two went to one. Now my team of one’s numbers was being compared to the teams of 18 on the floor.  The others had left, all that remained was one with a willing spirit to excel, to do well. The one forged on. I didn’t check the numbers until later in the day. To my surprise my team of one was number one!

“The LORD your God is going ahead of you. He will fight for you.” Dt. 1:30a NLT

And today, as I was planning for this week, God showed me how he did it for Gideon, and how he did it for me with my team of one.

Small is mighty when the LORD is on your side.

If the odds are stacked against you. If you feel all is lost. Remember Gideon. Be encouraged that God did it for him. He can do it for you.

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Cor. 12:9 NLT

Small is mighty when the LORD is on your side.

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures bydailybackground, turnbacktogod

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Why Do We Think Busier is Better?

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Image result for picture of a whirlwind

Last weekend I started a new bible study on the topic of Sabbath. A day of rest. The study is by Priscilla Shirer. Oddly enough when I started the study I was looking forward to creating some time to write this week. However, true to form time slipped away as my days were filled with things to do.

At work each day my calendar seemed to leave some time to write a quick article. But, as soon as the day began the time got filled. There was barely time for lunch.

After work on the way home I’d think, ok tonight I will write. But again, the evenings got filled up with making dinner, and preparing for the next day. Only to begin all over.

Can you relate? Whether you work or not, our days seem to get filled with things to do.

I try to cram everything in during the week so that on the weekends I have free time. Oddly though, that rarely happens. I can see many of you shaking your heads in agreement now. As we sit and say, “where did the time go?”

Priscilla brings to our attention that God himself took time to rest. He introduced the Sabbath on the 7th day.

“By the seventh day God completed His work that He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work that He had done.  God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, for on it He rested from His work of creation.” Gen. 2: 2-4 HCSB

I had heard the story of creation a million times, and the day God rested. But, I never thought of it as God, on purpose, created rest. Have you? You probably have, sometimes I’m a slow learner.

On purpose. Those two words have been sitting with me. What have I done “on purpose” to create rest? To create time to spend with My Creator. To read His Word, and study. To create time to write.

Those of you that know me know I am a list person. I have a list to make a list. And, I love to check things off! Ok all my type-A people you know exactly what I am talking about. In order to create “on purpose” my Sabbath, time to write, spend alone with God, and make time for what’s important to me, I added it to my list. But. Can you guess what happened to that?

Image result for picture of cartoon lists frazzled

Yep. It got eaten up by the other things. Like the Israelites we have become so used to being busy that any downtime is viewed as laziness. Our jobs drive us to occupy every minute of the day, and the list could go on. You can fill in your own blank as to what fill in your day, and what/who demands your attention.

Please understand I am not saying to ignore those things, but there’s a balance. A time to step back, take a break, and rest in Him.

Busier is not better.

Being busier causes us to be:

  • Tired
  • Irritated
  • Stressed 
  • Unfocused
  • Unmotivated, and
  • Ungrateful.

Busier is not better.

King David eve recognized that it is in God alone we find our rest. Psalm 23 is probably the most read Psalm. Every funeral I’ve ever attended has a Psalm 23 reading. After this week Psalm 23 should be a daily goal. Not one to be read at our funerals when the rest is indicating our passing. But, a rest that comes from seeking and striving to spend time with The Lord while we are still alive.

Image result for picture of a whirlwind

“Surely goodness and mercy and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life” Ps. 23:6a AMP (underline mine)

Just for today how will you *on purpose* find time for a Sabbath? A rest. To cease from doing work.

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by digopaul,  aberdeenwife ,

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Time to Breathe

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It feels so good to be on the keys of my lap top. Since beginning my job in March I have had little time to write. Between the commute and, well, life in general time has gotten away from me. I’m sure many of you can relate.

The time I had before my new job to write and share was therapeutic and fulfilling. Therapeutic because I could share with all of you what was going on in my life, and hope I was not the only one. And fulfilling because I would always hope and pray that my situations, and what God showed me, would be encouraging to you. That not only I would seek Him, read His word, and look for Him in your life, but you would as well. Friends, God is for us.

“But the Lord said to her, “Martha, dear friend, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it—and I won’t take it away from her!” Lk. 10:41-42 TLB

That being said, these last few months have just flown by. Each week I found myself saying “I need to write. I need to post a blog.” I would go so far as to tell myself, “just write 500 words.” Those close to me, and know me well are probably chuckling at that last statement. I tend to get out more than 500 words, even when talking. That’s the gift of gab from God! If you have that same gift, you will agree with me, it can also get us into trouble. Yet, each day came and went, and no blog. No article. My friends would say, “you will lose all of your followers.” And, I feared that. Not because I want to have followers because with followers comes pressure, and your life tends to move under the microscope. I feared anyone that followed my blog would not be encouraged to seek God. To know Him, and know His Son Christ Jesus.

Over the last four months, I have purposely done initiatives to keep me on the blog, and focused in His Word. The 2016 Challenge, and now A Summer to Remember. I am working on a new initiative for the fall. But, I kept coming back to what about NOW. Everyday God was there, every day came, and went. And it left me feeling that something was missing in my life. Have you ever had that feeling? The feeling of something is missing, the feeling of a void. Most try to fill it with things, going to bars, or looking outside of your current relationship by getting into another one. We think those things will fill what we are missing. Have you been there? How did it work out? If you have, you can answer privately. That’s between you and God. I knew my void was my time with God. My reading, studying, writing, teaching, and encouraging others.

“Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right.” Ecc. 8:5b NLT

Then yesterday as I was running errands, looking at my watch, and going over my list of things to do in my head, I purposely went into a Lifeway Store. I was determined to get myself a bible study written by someone else. Friends, it is good practice to study for yourself, and to study what someone else has written.

I had reached the point of frustration with having no time. At the end of the day I just wanted to scream! I didn’t, but if I did I’m pretty sure you’d have heard me. No time in the mornings because of my commute. The hour I spent in the bible didn’t seem to be enough. When I got home by the time I prepared for the next day and sat down, I was asleep within 30 minutes. Time gone. Only to begin all over again the next day. The weekends were spent running errands, and catching up on everything I couldn’t do during the week. I can see many of you shaking your head as you think of your own lives. Well. I. Had. Had it!

“And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in the midst of heaven and did not hurry to set for about a whole day.” Josh. 10:13 ESV

I would ask God to create more time for me, or like in the Book of Joshua allow the sun to stand still so I’d have more time. However, I get the same 24 hours in a day you all do.

Yesterday however I felt that God answered my prayers. As I walked into Lifeway to see what studies were out, the first one I saw was by Priscilla Shirer, Breathe, making room for Sabbath. A calm came over me. A refreshing, relaxing, realization that this was it! God knew I wanted more time. Time to spend with Him, and to breathe. However, because most of the time I learn the hard way I walked right by it. I headed to the back of the store to see what else there was. As I looked at the other studies available I found my breath leaving me. I felt rushed, and hurried. I knew. You see, when God speaks to us it is not always in one particular way. He can direct us by generating pressure within. With that my feet carried me right back up front to pick up the study and purchased it.

Our lists can get so long, busyness can overtake us, and ultimately God is the one that gets pushed out. Why you ask? In my opinion because we cannot see, touch, or feel Him. He speaks to our spirit. The things in our life, other people, work, food, social media, etc.. all immediately engage one or more of our senses. God does this too, but we have to look for it on purpose, and it may take time. Just my thought.

As I cracked the pages of my newly purchased study, this sentence jumped out at me –

“life is better when it has room to breathe.” Priscilla Shirer

Yes. That is what I want. Room to breathe. Do you? Do you find it difficult to find time in your life to breathe? Join me as I do this study, and together may we find time in our lives to Breathe, making room for Sabbath.

 

© Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by allposters, peanuts, joyfulpapist

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A Summer to Remember – week 5

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This weekend we will move into July 4th. Time to remember the benefits of the gift we have received.

A time to remember those that fought for our freedom. They gave their lives, so we could have a life. A life of safety, choices, and free speech. We live in a country where we can pick our religion without the fear of being persecuted.

Yet, there was an even greater freedom that was given to us. The freedom from our sins. The freedom that God gave us through His Son, Christ Jesus.

Our verse for week 5, as we spend this time remembering, and reflecting.

“Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God, this deep, deep wisdom? It’s way over our heads. We’ll never figure it out.” Ro. 11:33 MSG

From myself to you and yours – a very happy, and safe, July 4th!

*picture from: orchidsofflight

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Unwrapping the Gift from God

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I’ve heard many times from sermons, and from the Word of God itself – Everyone has a spiritual gift from God. And, it is up to us if we uses them or not. I guess that’s where our free will comes into play.

“God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” 1 Pe. 4:10 NLT

Did you notice the word variety? That would mean there are more than one gift God could have given us. Maybe some of you have more than one, and perhaps we only have one. One that is the most dominate. Have you ever wondered what the gifts are? Most of us would equate that with wealth, and the accumulation of a lot of *things.* But, that is not what God means when he says “spiritual gifts.” The gifts could be anyone of, or a combination of:

“In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophecy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.” Ro. 12:6-8 NLT

 As for me, my gift is kindness. Another word for that is compassion. Although I knew what my gift was – I tried not to use it. Why? Because what I typically found was, it got me in some sort of trouble. No matter what someone didn’t like what I did, or had to say. Being kind got me nowhere. At least in my own eyes that is what I saw. Yet, I quickly learned God was not going to go along with me ignoring the gift He gave me.

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isa. 55:9 AMP

Over the years my children would invite their friends to stay the night. Over time I noticed a reoccurring theme – their friends would just start talking and I always knew what to say to them. God would organize the words from my mouth. It was exactly what needed to be said to that person and just the right time in their life. Each scenario was different. Each time I’d think – wow! God is so good! I’d like to say everyone took the advice that came from me, but they did not. Some were able to be helped.

In the recent past my son had a friend stay the night. This friend was living with his foster parents. Over time I got to know him pretty well. He would stay at our house every other weekend. He would share what happened to him, how he felt, and what was on his mind and heart. Sometime later his foster parent contacted me to see if I was interest in becoming a foster parent myself. What?! My reaction was simple – No.

All the reasons as to why not went through my mind as to why not, and each one made perfect sense to me. But friends, the more I would not listen to God the harder it got each time I would see him. Oh there goes God again with his ways, and thoughts. He was going to get his way. Have you ever had that? Something is presented and it. Just. Won’t. Go away. That is the Spirit trying to get your attention.

“I will instruct you (says the Lord) and guide you along the best pathway for your life; I will advise you and watch your progress.” Ps. 32:8 TLB

So, like an obedient child, I contacted the case worker and things just took off! Imagine that! I also had peace about it. Of course that was no surprise, because when God directs our steps He has already went ahead and prepared the way.

Things moved quickly! On a Thursday we filled out the paper work, then went down to get finger printed. I told the case worker and within one hour our prints and back ground came back. Everyone was surprised on how fast everything came back. Except for me and my husband. We knew. We knew Who had already gone ahead and worked things out. By Tuesday the following week the young man was in our home to live.

I know for a fact that this is God’s plan for us to be parents to this young man. This young man God has a plan for, and we are so thankful He has allowed us to play a role in his life. God is good.

Whenever you question, or get a pressing feeling over and over, that is God. Listen, and do what he is leading you to do. He will never steer you wrong. Nor will He go against His word. If what you sense is going against what God says, then it is NOT of God.

Pray to God and things happen. He will move mountains for you. God has entrusted me with the gift of compassion, and now I embrace it to help others.

“Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! For who can know the Lord’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give him advice? And who has given him so much that he needs to pay it back?  For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.” Ro. 11:33 NLT

What is your gift? Are you using it for God’s glory?

 

By, Melissa Mills, June 2016

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by riverglenwealth, openwalls, pollyanna

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Turn God’s Ear

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Have you ever had someone tell you, just pray? Those two words can sound so simple, yet leave us speechless.

We have an example in the Book of Nehemiah. In chapter nine Nehemiah reveals to us the prayer that the people said. They had just faced great difficulties, and had just finished rebuilding the wall around their city, Jerusalem.

Their prayer is one that recognizes Who God is. His power, love truth, faithfulness, and mercy. It is reflective and expresses their knowledge of the present state they are in.

Let’s take their example and personalize it. Reminding ourselves of Who God is. His love, mercy, and even when we are not faithful to Him, His faithfulness to us.

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

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