Gentle Whisper Ministries

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

A Sincere Heart

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“I will get better. I will get better.” was the whisper that rang through my ears, landed in my heart, and caused me to act.

There’s and old television show – The Bionic Woman. Some of you may remember the show. She was a woman that had the ability to have extraordinary powers. A little like a superhero. One of her abilities was her bionic hearing. She could hear others conversations from far distances. That ability gave her an insight as to what was happening, what was going to happen, but more importantly it revealed their heart.

“A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.” Lk. 6:45 NLT

This past week I felt a little like The Bionic Woman. I had the ability to listen to others conversations, without them knowing I was listening. No, I was not doing anything illegal. On my job I have the ability to listen to others talk to customers on the phone for training and coaching purposes. Don’t worry, all the employees know their calls can, and will, be listened to at any given time.

On one of the calls the person I was listening to did not mute their phone when the call ended. When that happens we can hear any conversations, or comments, that may take place. If the customer does not hang up immediately, so can they. If you work in that type of atmosphere – be mindful.

The words that penetrated my ears caused an immediate reaction – “I will get better. I will get better.” For a moment I stood where I was stunned. Why? For that one moment God had allowed me to hear the sincere, heartfelt, desire of another.

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“But the LORD said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them, People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Sam. 16:7 NLT

You may ask – how can I say it was heartfelt? Think about it. This person did not know I was listening. Their back was turned against the walkways. And, it was a whisper, to them self. This person was encouraging them self. For a moment I felt like I was invading their privacy. But then, another whisper, this one to my heart. It came with questions for me.

  • Did you hear the humbleness and sincerity?
  • Did it prompt you to take action?
  • Did you intercede, and prompt another, to help this person?

My answer to all three were a resounding – yes.

At that moment it became a lesson for me. You see when God reveals himself to us, it very well may be for us to help another. But, the real lesson is with us. We learn more about who God is, His power, and faithfulness.

“But I will call on God, and the LORD will rescue me. Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the LORD hears my voice.” Ps. 55:16-17 NLT

When times are challenging, tough, and uncertain, doubts can creep in and take over. We can begin to think God does not hear me. He is not doing anything. Why? Because things are not happening in our timeframe. I must admit this happens more times to me than I care to tell you. When it does I have to remind myself God is bigger than any problem I have, and holds the power to change it, or use it to change me. What about you? Does that ever happen to you?

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When we go to God with our heartfelt desires he hears us. We have an advocate that intercedes for us.

“Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.” Ro. 8:34b NLT

What God pointed out to me this week was:

When we come to Him with a heartfelt, sincere, desire whether it be for a request, to do His will, or know Him more. He will:

  1. Hear
  2. Intercede
  3. Act

Our job after that is to:

  1. Actively Listen
  2. Acknowledge
  3. Apply

I am so grateful for the opportunity God allowed me. Those four words that have grounded themselves into the inner recess of my ears, I’m sure will ring throughout my life to serve as reminder –

“Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand.” Ps. 37:24 NLT

Jesus hears us, and intercedes for us, moving God to act for us.

“Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful.” 1 Th. 5:23-24 NLT

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*picture by clipart, pinterest, Idaho.gov

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Walking Backwards

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I spent this week walking backwards. Ok, not literally. This past week on my daily walks I have reminisced over the last three and a half years.

Friends, it has been quite the three and a half years. Three and a half years that if anyone would have asked me four years ago if I would experience what I did, my answer would have been – probably not, and I don’t plan on it.

I once heard my pastor say, “God does not tell us everything all at once. If He did, we would all have a breakdown.” I believe that. We would probably become so paralyzed to life that we would keep ourselves hidden.

Last week I posed the question: Do I believe in in the sufficiency of God’s word for me, or only for others? This went along side of our verse:

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Eph. 3:20 NLT

I hope your week proved beneficial, and you saw God’s mighty power at work in your life! Sometimes we have to walk backwards to see it. Or maybe that’s just me.

Over the last three and a half years I have experienced:

  • Doubts
  • Shortcomings
  • Stress
  • Fears
  • Anxiety
  • Uncertainties

Many days I was able to relate to the Israelites in the Wilderness. It was the same thing, with various part-time/seasonal jobs serving as my manna. I could relate to Paul with troubles, and hardships. The uncertainties, and fears would build themselves high like a Jenga game in my mind’s eye, until the pressure of stress would cause it all to come crashing down.

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Many days I wanted to just stay in bed with the covers over my head. But, each morning God woke me. And when He did I felt him say, “Come on, I’m waiting to talk to you.” So I would get up and go downstairs to pour myself over His Word.

“GOD’s loyal love couldn’t have run out; his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great is your faithfulness!” Lam. 3:22-23 MSG

With each morning came:

  • A new day
  • A new beginning
  • A fresh new Word
  • A new experience

As I walked backwards this week God gently reminded me of all His provisions. When we think of sufficiency of God do we equate it with money, and material possessions? In our minds, as society continues to push the idea of more is better, are we more likely to view “sufficiency” as the same as “plentiful”?

Sufficiency is to be provided for, and have our needs met. Whereas plentiful is to have more than what is needed. The original question coupled with our verse seemed like an oxymoron. Did anyone else pick up on that? On one hand I am asking, do I believe that what God says is adequate for me, and on the other saying He can do infinitely more!

Over these past three years, God has sustained, and maintained. Does He do that in your life? Things that you are anticipating to fall apart – stay together. Things that you are anticipating to cost a lot – are on sale, and you have just enough. Something you think just will not work out – works out. Friends, that is God’s infinite power at work! Where have you seen that in your life?

Perhaps prior to my time in the Wilderness, that’s what I call the last three and a half years, I may have grown complacent with God’s power. Perhaps entitlement had even taken root and begun to grow.

“Pride goes before destruction and haughtiness before a fall.” Pr. 16:18 NLT

God has used these three and a half years to really work on me. And, let me tell you – He had his work cut out for him.

Today, I walked my normal route and looked back with God. He has shown me that He is the great:

  • Sustainer
  • Provider
  • Deliverer
  • Protector
  • Maintainer, and
  • Redeemer

He is our Heavenly Father, and owns the cattle on a thousand hills. Friends, tap into His power. It is more than you can imagine or think!

“You received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba Father.” Ro. 8:15b

In the darkest hours, when I thought all hope was lost, it took everything I had to even whisper the words “God is good!” On my walks I would repeat that until I believed it. Some days through tears, and fears, I had to choke the words out. Not knowing what lie ahead for me, and trusting that He knew best, even if I did not. Have you been in that situation?

Once they were released my step became lighter. Today as my feet moved forward, and my eyes were glancing backwards, I realized that my sacrifice was the thankfulness I had to God. For all He had done, and was going to do!

“Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God. Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.” Ps. 50:14a-15 NLT

Is His sufficiency for me? Yes. And friends, it is for you too. My everyday walks will soon end, as God in all His glory came through! When I thought all hope was lost. God said to my spirit, “Oh my child, we are just beginning! In this three and a half years I have loved you, grown you, and calmed you. Through you I birthed Gentle Whisper Ministries. I have taught you to trust me, not get in such a hurry, and drench yourself in My Word.” He said more, but somethings I will keep to myself – stay tuned.

He moves us to the point of emptying ourselves. We have no more solutions, suggestions, or strength. Then we ask for a basic need and receive double! Afterwards, we are left with nothing to do, except give all glory to God!

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Going forward may there be less of me, and more of Him.

And as life walks on, and sometimes walks on us, allow me to encourage you:

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:19 NLT

Today, as I walk forward, I guard my time with God. The time we spent, hours together in His word, moments telling Him everything that was in my heart. Those three and a half years and the experience it brought will forever be cherished. Every tear was worth it. Every fear was invaluable. Every uncertainty held an unforeseen adventure with my God, and every doubt paved the way to God’s power to magnify itself!

Girlfriend, guy friend, if you have not tapped into His infinite power I greatly encourage you to make the time, and praise Him! When it is the hardest thing to do – that’s when you do it. Like me, He will leave you with nothing to say except:

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Eph. 3:20 NLT

Oh that you would experience Him in such a way! Today, what can you praise Him for?

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*pictures by corewalking, wallpaperup,123rf

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Drop Your Burdens

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Help wanted: Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Some jobs that many apply for carry the requirement of possessing the ability to lift heavy weight. The medical experts, and many trainers say when you lift heavy weight to lift with your knees, not your back.

To lift with your knees, you must first bend your knees, take hold of the item and then while holding it begin to straighten your knees as you stand. This takes the pressure off the back to carry the weight.

Over the past few months I have found myself lifting life’s problems with straight knees, and carried them around my neck. In an effort to try and make things lighter I bundled up all my woes into a bag, tied a rope around it and begun to drag them around. It took the weight off my lower back, but as the rope hung over my shoulder it pressed down on my shoulder causing a strain in my neck. Can you relate? How many times do we carry all of our problems around, piling them up until it’s too much?

Do we let go of our woes? No. Like me you may have put them all in a bag thinking it would make them easier to carry around. Oh, might I add, when we put them in a bag it also allows room for more woes to be stuffed in!

Before you write to me, I am not saying to ignore your problems. There are events that happen that we have to address. Things that need our attention, and require some action to be taken. However, there are some things we have ZERO control over that we carry around. Things that ultimately weigh us down. Things that we were never created to have to carry around.

I will admit I did not realize I was dragging my bag of 75+ pounds around until this past week. It was our verse that brought it to my attention:

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Mt. 11:28-30 NLT

For the last several years, I have served, studied, followed, and loved Jesus; however, this week Jesus words were eye opening. Thirteen words:

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens.”

 

That was me! You see I would go to Jesus. I would even talk to others about Jesus and try to get them to go to Jesus. The big difference was I would go to Jesus with all my heavy burdens! And, after when I left to go about my day I took my burdens back with me. I flung the rope of my bag of burdens over my shoulder, and began to pull as I walked with it. My bag of burdens, I am sure, looked like Santa’s bag of toys right before he leaves the North Pole! However, unlike Santa my bag was not full of toys! Can you relate? Are you dragging a bad of heavy burdens around?

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This past week I began to stuff more burdens in my bag, until these words illuminated in my mind’s eye:

“let me teach you.”

After carrying my bag of burdens around for almost 3 1/2 years now I began to crumble. What started as having the ability to lift up to 50 pounds turned into pulling well over 100 pounds, as I stuffed more and more into my bag!

My crumble began this week with the reality of facing the possibility of losing everything. I realize some of you reading this may have lost everything, and are rebuilding, or already rebuilt. I can empathize with you. For me the biggest problem I dealt with was trying to fix things in my own strength. Trying to forward think, and plan for the best possible outcome or solution. If you read my blog last week that comes from my years spent in Corporate America. Again let me say, those things are not wrong. It helps to be prepared, and overcome an obstacle.

But friends, it should not exclude Jesus and what he is trying to teach us.

This week my knees began to give way, they would wobble as I pulled my bag around, and my neck would tighten trying to compensate for the weight. Tears would stream down my cheeks as solutions in my own strength looked bleak.

I have recently taken up the habit of walking daily. This has become my time with God. Now before you say, “that’s great!” Let me give you a glimpse of how it went, I would leave my bag on the side, go walking then pick it back up. Yes. And, a cou0le of times this week I took my bag of burdens with me, and drug it around on a 3 mile walk! Talk about a neck ache, and tired!

Finally, when it all seemed lost, and with this week’s verse echoing itself into the recesses of my spirit, I took my bag and dumped it out! Turned it upside down, and shook it, until everything fell out. I gave them all to Jesus!

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On my walk I began to sing! I would make up a song to the Lord singing of His greatness, faithfulness, and RICH love and mercy! A few things happened:

  • My step became lighter
  • My neck no longer hurt
  • Tears of turmoil turned to tears of joy, and
  • I realized (along with some other walkers I’d pass by) why I am not in the church choir

Please understand, I realize my life will not be a rose garden. There will be times of trouble and things will happen that need attention. But, friends – when we give them to Jesus He is faithful! He is true to His words! He takes the weight and gives us His.

“For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light”

Jesus will take our burdens and lighten our load, but we have to give it to him. We cannot do what I did for years, give it and then take it back, while piling on more.

To mimic Dr. Charles Stanley, “Don’t rely on your natural eyes or pass judgment on your situation. You’ll draw the wrong conclusion. Rather, look to Him for understanding and allow Him to lead you to triumph.” Every Day in His Presence.

This week Jesus taught me – give Him my burdens. The result – my load was lightened, and a huge burden relieved!

Friends – if you are carrying around your own bag of heavy burdens let me implore you to drop it at the feet of Jesus. Give it to Him. And, the key is to leave it there.

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

 

*pictures by blog.ecu.edu, redefineinggeny, pinterest

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Walking with a Purpose

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Have you ever felt like “a walker”? Sunday a new season began for a very popular show. If you are a fan of it, you already know which show on television I am referring to. If not, it’s The Walking Dead.

Many people I know are huge fans! Along with my boyfriend. I remember when he first discovered it he spent an entire weekend catching up with the past seasons on Netflix. Over the years he has tried to encourage me to watch it, and with each attempt was unsuccessful. If you are a fan, I understand there is a story line. I have tried to watch it, whenever they play a marathon, and I come across it I think, “Ok, let me give it a try.” And, each time the scenes are someone eating another person. Or, one of the walkers getting their head smashed in. With that – turn the channel.

Before you send me notes, or write comments on how good the show is, and give it another try. Hear me out.

This past Sunday was the beginning of a new season, and prior to the episode beginning they were running a marathon. I decided to give it yet another try.

As I watched the season opener, a scene spanned to the outside view of the street. On the street were hundreds of “walkers.” In case you don’t know what a “walker” is, it’s a person that was alive and well, then bitten by another that had previously been infected with the virus. Thus over time they die and turn into a “walker.” They look like zombies, but that term is never used. They then seek out other living people, and either bite them, or eat them. Disgusting! To kill them you have to kill their brain, by smashing their head, or cutting off their head. Again, disgusting!

Back to the show. Sunday night, I sat and watched, flinching, and thinking what story line? Then as I saw all the walkers wondering aimlessly my thoughts turned.

  • Is that what we look like to God when we don’t know his Son, or his word?

“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins in which you previously walked according to the ways of this world” Eph. 2:1-2a HCSB

When we don’t know Jesus, or perhaps we have no desire to know him, our life may be fine. It may actually be wonderful. You may say, “I have lots of money,” “I have a great job,” “I have a big house,” and the list of things acquired could go on. All the things the world places value on you may have.

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But what does God say about those things?

“For everything that belongs to the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the prides in one’s lifestyle – is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world with its lust is passing away” 1 Jn. 2:16-17a HCSB

Before you get defensive, and come at me like a walker desiring to eat my flesh. I am not saying that having nice things, a good job, and lots of money is bad. Those are blessings from God. It’s when we desire them more than we desire to know God. Even king Solomon, who was the richest man that ever lived, said:

“it is appropriate to eat, drink, and experience good in all the labor one does under the sun during the few days of his life God has given him, because that is his reward.” Ecc. 5:18 HCSB

Like a walker, do we get so in tuned with getting more, and more, and more, that we begin to wander aimlessly seeking out more to satisfy the desire of our flesh? Thereby turning from God. I can’t answer that for you. We can only ask ourselves, and ask God to reveal the truth to us individually.

I posed the question of our status before knowing God, but let me also present this as the picture paints itself in my mind –

  • Is it possible for us to look like a walker even after knowing God, and his word?

“If we say, “We have fellowship with Him,” yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and are not practicing the truth.” 1 Jn. 1:6 HCSB

Walking in darkness? What is that? What makes us walk in darkness? Do I look like a walker? Some mornings before I run a comb through my hair, and had my coffee that answer may be, yes. Ha!

“But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness, walks in the darkness, and doesn’t know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” 1 Jn. 2:11 HCSB

The word hate is pretty strong here, and I thought I don’t hate anyone; therefore, I must be in the clear. However, is there someone we may be harboring hard feelings for? Someone that we avoid because we feel they have wronged us? Or, perhaps someone that we look at and think their life must be easy, and the ugly head of jealousy rears itself?

I will admit, for a long time I looked at everyone else’s lives and compared them to mine. I didn’t hate them, but I was probably a bit jealous. They have good jobs, and a steady income. I once had that, and when it left I felt aimless. But this year, something changed. I heard a noise.

In the show the walkers walk aimlessly until they hear a noise. Once they hear a noise that triggers the idea of life, which means food for them, so they scurry to where the sound came from.

The noise I heard was the Gentle Whisper saying,

“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you, and not to harm you. Plans for a hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11 NIV

That verse is imbedded in me in the NIV translation because that is the translation I was using at the time the words came to life and danced on the page! It gave such hope, and encouragement into my life. You might be thinking this just happened? No my friends, that verse danced its way into my heart, and seared my mind in 2001. Yep, 15 years ago, and still waltzes its way around in my life.

Like a walker when I hear that verse, I scurry to where life is. The place where I will find food for my soul, and satisfy the hunger within me. To the words of Christ Jesus:

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven, if anyone eats of this bread he will live forever. The bread that I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.” Jn. 6:51 HCSB

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Friends, when we don’t know Christ, or we wander away from Him, we are like the “walkers.” Aimlessly wandering, searching, desiring, and devouring anything living that gets in our path. The walkers are covered with their victims’ blood, yet when we know Christ He covers us with His blood!

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us, made us alive with the Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses… But now in Christ Jesus, you were far away have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah” Eph. 2: 4-5,13 HCSB

As for the show, who knows if I will watch it again. If I do, the walkers will have a whole perspective to me. As for me being a walker – my walk will be to walk for Christ, and make the noise that points others to Him!

What about you? Who, or what, will you “walk” towards, and point others to?

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*picture by internetmonk, imbanimbiclothing, 123rf

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Mine High Places

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Whew ~~ It’s been quite the week. Let me turn the light of my hard hat towards my computer, put my pick and shovel down, and explain. We are deep in the mountain right now digging into the Word of God. Friends, this must be what the miners digging for gold felt like! You know there’s treasure to be had, you just have to keep digging.

At the beginning of the week the challenge was not only to focus on the verse, but to also use outside resources and look up some of the meanings of words that may have stood out to you. Well. Let me say I found myself deep in the recesses of the mine digging for the gold of God’s word.

At one point my boyfriend said, “you have eight books on your table!” Yes! I do. I am looking up the meanings of a couple of words.

Our verse was Habakkuk 3:19

“Yahweh is my strength, He makes my feet like those of a deer and enables me to walk on mountain heights.” HCSB

Form our verse the first word that stood out to me was mountain. I had told you my man and I are taking a class together on Sunday nights at my church, “How to study the Bible.” Excellent class! Brilliant teacher! No matter how many times a person has read the bible, or studied it – you will never know it, or understand it all. God cannot be understood fully. That’s what makes Him God. This week I put some of the things into practice, because Dr. Enns said (that’s our teacher) “Every word is in the bible for a reason. And, every word means something. It is up to us to investigate it.” So I did.

The first word that stood out to me was mountain. In the literal sense you and I know what a mountain is. Perhaps it held a different meaning in the bible. I looked it up in my Hollman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, it said “Elevated topographical feature formed by faulting and erosion.” (p.1130) Did you catch that? Look at the last five words of the definition again “formed by faulting and erosion.”

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Doesn’t life have its share of faulting and erosion? Trouble is all around us, difficulties seem to come as rock slides sometimes, and at times due to my own sad choices faulting and erosion occur. Even the Apostle Paul says:

“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” 2 Cor. 4:8-9 NLT

He couldn’t have said it better, and at times don’t we feel like that?

  • Pressed on every side
  • Perplexed at the world around us
  • Hunted down by trials
  • Knocked down by situations out of our control

I couldn’t stop there. So I looked up the verse in a different translation, I went old school, way back – to the King James Version.

“The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer in my stringed instruments”

I have underlined the word that appeared to be different in my newer translation. Mine. When I saw that my shovel dug deeper. Mine? How did we go from mine to mountain? Now you know – I had to look it up. It forced me to pull out the dynamite – my Strongs Exhaustive Concordance. Strongs cited “Tripolis.” By now you know the drill, and we are deeper into the mine of God’s word. Immediately I retraced steps back to my bible dictionary to see what Tripolis was. It referred me back to the bible in Ezra 4:9. With my pick and shovel in hand, and light shining brightly I ran back into the Word racing to Ezra. Yes, I was ready to say – Eureka! I struck gold!

Instead I discovered, they are people sent as colonists to Samaria by the Assyrians. (Ez. 4:9) Now here we are, deep in the mountain, in the mine of God’s Word, and as I look around I think, aren’t I supposed to be on the mountain heights? As in, on the top of the mountain?

But then, the light on my hat began to shine just a bit brighter. The words on the page seem to begin to glow and whisper the words from the King James Version.

In all of our hardships, our faults, and erosions, it is God who gives us the ability to endure. Instead of clawing and scraping our way to the top, He allows us to walk.

“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 (italicizes mine)

After working for six months at a seasonal job that brought with it new challenges, and obstacles, every day God allowed me to walk on the mountain heights. Just when I would feel comfortable, and start to pick up my pace something would happen that forced me to walk.

Life makes us run enough. In this life of mine, and life of yours our mountains are “mine high places.” The places in which God puts us. The roads He paves for each of us. As you and I walk on “mine high places” we must always remember the words of Christ himself:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Jn. 14:6 HCSB

The differences we have may be our:

  1. Vocations
  2. Addresses
  3. Names
  4. Gender
  5. Families
  6. Bank accounts
  7. Friends
  8. Denominations

You get the idea, but the one thing we share is that Christ IS the ONLY way. When we find ourselves asking “God, why am I sitting in the mountain, and not on the mountain heights?” The response will most likely be the same as it was to the Apostle Peter after Jesus told him about the type of death he would endure (Jn 21:15-19). Peter asks Jesus, “Lord – what about him?” Jn. 21:21

We may ask “what about her, what about them, I have all this difficulty, and what about them?” Have you ever done that? Compared yourself, and said “what about….?” The response will most likely be the same as He told Peter. And tells me.

Jesus answered, “what is that to you? As for you, follow Me.” Jn. 21:22b

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God has given each of us – mine high places. In our high places Paul encourages us amidst all the troubles.

“We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” 2 Cor. 4:8-9 NLT

We are not:

  1. Crushed
  2. Driven to despair
  3. Abandoned, or
  4. Destroyed

“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”2 Cor. 4:17-18 ESV

This week friends walk in your high places with God.

Let’s keep digging, keep walking, and keep asking, because friends – There’s gold in them there mountains!!

In the words of those seven famous miners – Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it’s off to work I go!

 

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*picture by southernindianagold, gracecounselors

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Let’s Step It Up

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Hello fellow 2016 Challenge partners!

I hope your week is going well, and along with focusing on our verse you have been looking up some of the meanings behind the words. Each word in the bible is there for a reason, and has a meaning. It is up to us to stretch those spiritual muscles, and dig!

But – today marks Ash Wednesday for our Catholic friends, and thus the beginning of Lent.

I’d like to step up our challenge! Remember, I told you I will be your spiritual trainer. Like any trainer things get added for our benefit.

The premise behind Lent for those that are unfamiliar is that Christ gave his life for all of us. He made the ultimate sacrifice. Lent is symbolic in that we give something up for 40 days (thru March 24) that would be a sacrifice. It no way compares, but allows us to partake in sacrificing something we like a particular food, or habit.

In the past I’ve given up the personal use of Facebook, soda, certain television shows, things of that nature. This year a couple of us are giving up sugar/sweets. Yikes! Trust me, it will be a sacrifice.

During this time we will continue to focus on our verses, and when temptation arises with whatever we gave up, we will focus on Jesus.

Oh friends! I can just see our muscles getting bigger!

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We are:

  1. growing closer to God
  2. learning to trust His word
  3. Look for His actions in our lives
  4. Going deeper into the meaning
  5. And now, Sacrificing something for Him!

Please don’t think your trainer here, is standing by while you do all the work. This trainer is right in the word with you! What I ask of you, I do myself.

  • When you say “I have no time.” I say “I know, get up 20 minutes earlier.”
  • When you say “”I don’t understand.” I say “I know, that’s why we are now looking up words.”
  • When you say “I want to give up.” I say “I know, but Christ did not give up on us.”
  • When you say “this is hard.” I say “I know, now come on!”

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We are still in week 6 – Hab. 3:19 is our verse.  If you are new to the Challenge we welcome you! Grab your bible, pen, and paper and join us! We are working through 20 weeks, a verse a week, for 16 minutes a day. For those 16 minutes we will focus only on the verse, and record any thoughts that are revealed to us. Feel free to use the verse we check or select one of your own.

Our premise for the 2016 Challenge is based off Numbers 23:19 ” For God is not a man who lies, or a son of man who changes his mind. Does he speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill?” HCSB

Come join us because we are STEPPING IT UP!

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2016

*picture by istockphoto

 

 

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Sleeping in the Storm

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For the past three weeks I haven’t been able to get a story out of my mind. I hear it, and picture it over and over. And I wonder, isn’t that exactly how we are supposed to act?

I was out of town for a birthday party, and while there planned to visit my son and his family. During that weekend on Sunday one of my best friends and I went with my son, daughter-in-law, and my two grandkids on his boat. It was a beautiful day!

The sun was shining, clouds out in the distance meet with the calm blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, while we raced out past North Captiva Island. I say raced because my son only knows one speed – fast. Thank God for the idle zones. That’s where we catch our breath!

While moving between Sanibel and Captiva my son proceeded to tell us of the recent time they were all out on the boat, and a storm came up on them. He said, “Mom, it was out in the distance, and we were heading back in. Then all of a sudden in no time it was on top of us.” He couldn’t believe how quickly it arrived, and with the wind pushing the waves to 4ft plus it rocked his boat to and fro. He decided there would be no time to get to the marina, even at full throttle. They were in the storm. At that point my daughter-in-law chimes in and says, “We headed for the nearest boat dock at a home close by, and the whole time it was raining, thundering, and lightening, my four year old grandson was asleep.” In fact she said, “He missed the whole thing.” She couldn’t believe it. He woke up when the storm passed, and they were back at the marina.

What I couldn’t believe is why they tell me these stories! I was, and am, very thankful everyone is ok. Except the boat – it suffered a scratch. My nerves certainly were not sleeping, or calm. But –

At that moment, and ever since, I have pictured the scene in Matthew.

“Then Jesus got into the boat and started across the lake with his disciples. Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.” Mt. 8:23-24 NLT

No, my grandson is not Jesus. It’s in the illustration of that story that God reveals how we are to act. Calm, and resting in our Heavenly Father’s trust. Just as my grandson rested in trusting his daddy to guide the boat. He had no fear, or worry. He was so peaceful, he slept. In his four year old heart he knew his daddy would get them to safety. Aren’t we called to do the same thing with Christ?

“So don’t worry about these things, saying “What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” Mt. 6:31-32 NLT

Jesus says we will have troubles in this life. There will be trials, and storms, that toss our emotions to and fro like the boat in the storm. Sometimes those storms “suddenly” appear out of nowhere it is on top of us. Sometimes like my son, you can see it coming out in the distance, but then it is “suddenly” on top of you. When those times come, not if, but when because He tells us “here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.” Jn. 16:33a NLT.

On that Sunday, out in the Gulf of Mexico, on a bright sunny day in the pristine blue waters, God revealed the illustration of how His children are to act in a storm. I love that. The best time to have someone listen is when they are calm, and not facing thunder and lightning all around them. As we anchored on a sand bar, and my grandkids jumped out, there was no fear in them as their feet left the bow of the boat making their way into the water. I keep that story tucked deep into a pocket in my heart. I’m sure one day I will have to exercise it. After all, Jesus said “we will have many trials.”

Some of my most precious illustrations God gives me is through parent child relationships I have the pleasure of witnessing. Rightfully so because He is my, and your, Heavenly Father.

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are.” 1 Jn. 3:1 NLT

Friends that is the example you are to follow when the storms of life happen. No, not to literally sleep through them, but to rest in trusting Him. To know He has it all under control. To know He will take you to the nearest dock, wait for the storm to finish raging, then move you on to the marina. When life brings the storms that is the peace I will strive for. It will also be the image of a four year old little boy, asleep on a boat, in a storm, resting fully in his daddy.

“So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Mt. 10:31 NIV

©Gentle Whisper Ministries

*picture by wallpapersinhq

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Overcoming the Giant

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As I moved through my morning the thought kept playing over and over in my mind – I can’t be the only one facing the giant of difficulty head on.

The bible tells us not to look back, and Paul remind us to keep pressing forward by giving us his secret.

“One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead.” Phil. 3:13 HCSB.

And then, the reading from my quiet time made its way through the mud, and gravel, that occupied space in my thoughts. It was a reminder that my difficulty is nothing compared to what Jesus has already faced, and might I add: conquered.

In the book of Matthew there are two incidents recorded for us where Jesus fed the multitude. Most of you may be familiar with the feeding of the five thousand. Jesus only had two fish, and five loaves of bread, yet he fed over 5000. To top it off there were leftovers. Mt. 14: 17-21. As I continued reading in chapter 15, I came across the feeding of the 4000. I had forgotten about that. Did you? Good. I don’t feel alone. For those of you that remembered you get an A+.

What I had found interesting, that I don’t remember seeing before is in both instances His disciples were with him, recognized the number of people there, and the lack of food to feed everyone.

However, when Jesus was with the 5000 the disciples had told Him to tell the people to leave so they can get food for themselves. Mt. 14:15.  But Jesus immediately follows with “You feed them.” The next time they are faced with the same giant of feeding the multitude (4000) Jesus doesn’t have to tell them “you feed them.” Instead, He says “I don’t want to send them away hungry.” Mt. 15:32.

I love how Jesus deals with regular people. His disciples, although men, exhibited the same attitude, and questions that I have and did today when faced with the giant of my difficulty. Like the disciples I know how Jesus has acted in my life. The things He has done for me. The miracles that left no explanation, but for the power of God. And yet, like His disciples that were there with Him. I ask questions, and I want the giant to go away.

When Jesus was with the 5000, after He told them “you feed them,” they responded with “But we only have two fish and five loaves of bread.” Mt. 14:17. Pivotal human excuse and reasoning. Have you done that, said that? A difficulty is starring you down, and you respond with “But I only have…” Don’t worry you’re not alone, I said it about 2 hours ago.

After witnessing a great miracle the disciples are faced again with the same giant! Whoa. Have you ever had to face the same difficult giant? Here they are again. And remember in the first one they were the ones that handed out the food. But, this time perhaps they remember and instead of telling the people to go away they respond to Jesus with a question, “Where could we get enough bread in this desolate place to fill such a crowd?” Mt. 15:33.  This too I have said. Except when I say it to Jesus it goes something like this “Where in the world will I get …..?!” Like the disciples however, I have forgotten the source of my need to face the difficulty. If I didn’t forget – I doubted His power. Can you relate?

This time there were less people and more food, and still they questioned the ability to feed them adequately. The crowd was made up of 4000 men, and seven loaves of bread and a few small fish. Mt. 15:34. Remember they just feed 5000 with less, and they still doubt, or question. Their short term memory was at a loss, and all they could see was the giant of difficulty. Like them – I can relate.

As my giant stood in front of me bearing down, I realized I have seen this giant of difficulty before. And, then I was reminded of Paul’s words “I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 3:14. Along with this thought –

If Jesus can feed 5000+ with five loaves and two fish, then it stands to reason He can feed 4000+ with seven loaves, and a few small fish!

What giant of difficulty are you facing? Is it a familiar one? Is this one you have went to battle with before?  If so, put the equation together and tell your difficulty –

If Jesus can do (fill in your situation), then it stands to reason He can do (fill in your situation) with more! Repeat it until your difficulty retreats.

After all – slaying giants of difficulties are His specialty!

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2015

*picture from garycombs

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The Day I Wrecked The Tractor

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Each week I cut the yard with precision. When you get to drive the tractor it’s not bad. Growing up we had a pretty good sized yard. The property was three quarters of an acre which meant you had at least an hour of uninterrupted yard cutting time. There was peace on the tractor. Nothing but the air, and wide open grass beneath me.

Over time I had gotten used to driving it. That involved taking the turns at a little higher speed than recommended. Navigating the blade platform to adjust the cut at just the right height, pulling the grass sweeper behind to pick up the clippings, backing up to pick up missed areas, and because I had become a pro (or so I thought) I could drive with one hand.

Since I was the oldest driving the tractor was a privilege. My younger brothers wanted to drive. They would ask our dad, but – nope. They were too young, and I had the wheel. It was my dad’s pride – his tractor, and he trusted me with it.

Then one Saturday morning I wrecked the tractor.

It started as a regular morning – cartoons, breakfast, and then fire up the tractor to get the grass cut. The exception was the heavy blanket of dew still on the ground. There was a pattern to cutting the grass; front yard first, then side yard, finally back yard. The front yard was cut just fine, I was moving right along. I made the first two rounds in the side yard, and then on the third trip around – crash.

No, I did not hit the house.

Instead, I hit the telephone pole. In between our house, and the neighbor’s driveway stood a telephone pole.

The dew on the grass served as an ice rink for the tractor tires. I knew not to drive fast with wet grass. My dad had told me many times. Instead the wisdom of my youth said, “Yea, yea, its ok, you got this.” And, got this I did – right into the telephone pole. Head on. Crash! If there were air bags back then it would have deployed.

The tractor came to a dead stop. After I adjusted myself back into the seat, I looked up only to see the hood cracked, shifted over about 12 inches from where it was supposed to be, and hanging off to one side. The pole? It was just fine. Not a scrape just some yellow paint that served as a bruise. I quickly turned off the tractor, and jumped off.

Surveying the damage thoughts began to compete with themselves about how to cover this up? Thoughts like:

  • The famous – I didn’t do it.
  • Even though they weren’t even around – One of my brothers did it. (oh stop acting like you’ve never done or thought of that)
  • The last resort of – I have no idea what happened.

Have you ever had thoughts like that? Something happens, and all of a sudden because you knew better, but ignored the warnings the result was unfavorable? And now, you are in trouble.

Maybe you were able to hide it? Maybe, like me, you weren’t.

I knew I had to tell my dad what happened. He would know the truth. If I didn’t fess up, the yellow paint on the telephone pole, skid marks in the grass, smashed in tractor hood, and keys in my hand would tell the whole story. And, point right to me!

This morning as I was doing dishes I was asking God to speak to me, let me know He still loved me and is there for me. That He has me right where He wants me. That He has everything under control.

As I washed a plate the vision of my dad came to mind – crystal like the Caribbean waters. As I ran to him, tears running down my cheeks, scared that I would certainly get in trouble, sad that I damaged his tractor, and with each step wanting to turn the other way I knew I had to tell him what I did.

Out of the corner of his eye, my dad saw me running to him crying. He immediately turned off the lawn mower. Cutting the yard was a two man process, and my dad was trimming around the trees and house with the lawn mower. He stood there with arms wide open to embrace me when I approached and said, “What is wrong, what happened?” All I could say, with tears now streaming, is “I’m sorry daddy. I wrecked your tractor.”

He hugged me, and we walked back to the tractor. My dad kept saying “it’s ok. I’m glad you are not hurt.” And what has now moved to the front of my mind were his words “Thank you for telling me right away, and not hiding it.”

With God as our Heavenly Father isn’t that what he wants from us?

  • God had answered me.

“The LORD has heard my plea.” Ps. 6:9a NLT

  • God already knows what we did.

“Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.” Ps. 136:16 NLT

  • God is merciful even when we rebel.

“Yet He was merciful and forgave their sins and did not destroy them all.” Ps. 78:38 NLT

  • God dispels our excuses.

“Do you remember what I told you?” Jn. 15:20a NLT

  • God is ready to embrace us.

“And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son.” Lk. 15:20 NLT

  • God is forgiving, gracious, and merciful.

“But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love.” Neh. 9:17b NLT

  • God is waiting for us to tell Him we are sorry.

“Bring your confessions, and return to the LORD.” Hos. 14:2a NLT

By no means is my dad, God. In that memory God resurrected from my childhood I was able to get a glimpse of my Heavenly Father’s love, and concern, for me. The same love and concern He has for you too.

When all was said and done, and the tractor was fixed. My dad put me right back in the driver’s seat. Once again I drove the tractor.

“You are a God who does what is right, and you smooth out the path ahead of them.” Isa. 26:7b NLT

God does the same thing with us. He embraces us when we are hurt. He heals our wounds by surveying the damage, and then puts us back in the driver’s seat. He knows the plans for our lives. (Jer. 29:11)

If you’re driving the tractor, watch the wet grass, control your speed, and like me – if you wreck the tractor – immediately go to Him; even if you have tears in your eyes, and all you can say is “I’m sorry daddy. I wrecked your tractor.”

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2015

 

*picture by 123rf

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At The Concrete Pond

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“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Mt. 4:19 NKJV

I was reminded of that when, I saw a picture of two of my grandsons participating in imaginary fishing. The caption of the picture was “garage fishing.”

They were ready one had a make shift fishing pole with blue tape as the string, and the other used a bat as his pole. They had their fishing hats on, and camo shoes. According to a four year old, and a two year old, camo crocks are important so the fish will not detect your feet.

In one picture they sat quietly, on the concrete steps, feet in the concrete water, patiently waiting for the fish in the concrete to take the imaginary bait. They had assumed the fisherman pose of patiently waiting. You can’t make noise when you fish. It will scare them away. They fish quite a bit with their father. He has taught them a few tricks of the trade.

When you fish you have to have the right bait to catch the fish you are after. I can only imagine what the bait was on the end of the blue tape. And, what kind of fish would be attracted to it.

When you fish you have to be in the right spot. If you are located where no fish are you can sit all day, and not catch a thing. Seated firmly on the side of the concrete pond their fish finder said, “The catch would be plentiful.”

You have to have the right pole, and line. If you fish in rivers, and reservoirs, your pole and line is vastly different to catch Cat Fish, and Bass, than it is for deep sea fishing for Swordfish, or Shark. For concrete fishing they were well equipped.

As I looked at their picture, and immediately hit the “like” button, I was reminded of two other brothers that were fishermen.

“And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen.” Mt. 4:18

You and I are fishermen. We sit on our concrete steps, with our feet in the concrete pond.

Our step is our workplace, neighborhood, grocery store, gym, and right in our own homes. It is the places we go to.

Our concrete pond is anywhere our feet land.

We may not be using a stick, or a bat, with tape on the end for our fishing pole. At least I hope not. Especially a bat; instead may we use words of encouragement, and truth.

“Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you are doing” 1 Th. 5:11 NKJV

As the boys sat side by side, I imagine they encouraged each other. They said, “Look here comes a fish,” or “move your pole over here.” Things fishermen say. Maybe even “oh that one got away, but you’ll get the next one.” If you have ever fished that may sound familiar. You may even have a few more lines of your own. And, as the fishermen encourage each other, it is always in love, and friendship. It is by their actions, and our actions, as fishermen that we draw the fish in. The bait of our actions will draw the fish in, or scare them away.

“All of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous.” 1 Pe. 3:8 NKJV

As we bait our lines again preparing ourselves for the next fish. We steady ourselves with patience. A person that fishes will tell you, sometimes they are out all day before they get one catch. It takes perseverance to wait for the paper fish in the concrete pond.

We as fishermen are called to have the same patience, and perseverance as we fish in our concrete ponds. One may get away; one may take the bait, but not stay around; some days there will be no fish to be found; but in it all stay the course – feet steadied, pole baited, and ready. They will come. And don’t forget – the camo crocks!

“Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy, giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers.” Col. 1:11-12 NKJV

In the other picture they had put all their skills to use at the concrete pond. It had paid off as they held their catch high, and proud! It was a successful day at the concrete pond! The paper fish hung on the blue tape line connected to the blue tape bait. The fishermen’s patience paid off.

Our concrete pond may not produce paper fish. But, our concrete pond is filled with hungry people, waiting to be encouraged, waiting to heal he paper cut in their heart, waiting to know that there is a God that loves and cares about them. Our concrete pond is filled with plenty of people, but the on the sides there are few fishermen with a baited pole.

“The harvest is truly plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Mt. 9:37 NKJV

May you, and I, go fishing with our Heavenly Father. He will teach us his tricks of the trade.

“They immediately left their nets and followed Him.” Mt. 4:20 NKJV

See you at the concrete pond!

©Gentle Whisper Ministries 2015

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