Timely Lessons Gleaned from Work and School

It's hard to believe that we've now reached the final month of the year 2009. I feel even more pressured to finish the things that I had started...my 2008 taxes, for one.

This week is an extremely hectic week for me. Thankfully, my kids and I have already recovered from a bad cold/cough...and no, I don't want that virus back, as I just got my voice back today!

God never ceases to amaze me. Despite my crazy schedule, He still communicates to me in a creative way. This week, I'm busy doing work stuff as well as school stuff...and amazingly, I got some life lessons out of these activities.

• At Work: I'm currently working on a Social Media project for work and in blogging my experiences, God revealed a simple life lesson...but one that is quite timely for me.
  
  
• At School: This month is my final month attending Faith Bible Institute classes, and yes, I'll be graduating! Lots of final exams this month, so there's lots of studying to do. However, one of the practical applications sections struck me, and I'll copy/paste the information here:

Practical Applications from the Book of Haggai:

1. Finish what you start.
2. Until God is first, your personal life will be fruitless.
3. When you don't give to God, God will take from you.
4. Obey God first, before you feel His presence, then His stirrings will come.
5. When you have constant problems, consider your ways.
6. Even though things may be bad now, God always has future blessings for His people.
7. Good things in a sinful life do not cleanse it, but sinful things in a good life do defile it.
8. Discouragement in our Christian life can tempt us to shift our priorities from spiritual concerns to personal concerns. This will lead us to spiritual indifference, unconcern, and apathy and therefore to a removal of God's blessings from our lives. If we have made this mistake, we are to rebuild our Christian lives by repenting and returning to God's priorities and God's service. We are to do this before we feel burdened or stirred. God will honor this with the return of His presence, power, stirring, and blessing. Revival comes by doing right, not by feeling right - by obeying God and returning to Him before you feel stirred, not because you feel stirred.
   

Despite my busy schedule this week, I hope I don't tune God out. His messages are too important to ignore...and I'm sure I'll have to revisit this message (including this blog post) in the future...as I normally do with my old posts.

A Lesson Learned at the Gas Station

So I was at the gas station today...

I was quite tired whilst operating on only 2.5 hours of sleep and it was the end of the day...still adjusting to the overall change brought about by another new project at work that occurred unexpectedly last month (a good thing)...still adjusting to the setup where both boys are now in school (two different schools, mind you) and not having my mom nearby to help...thinking about the upcoming finals during my final semester in Bible school...and still learning as I travel life's pathway to domestication and motherhood...and oh, gas prices are up, again!!!

While pumping gas for an extended period of time (thanks to my gas guzzler), I had my mind wrapped around many things at the same time. I was trying to figure things out on my own, trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together in my head. I didn't even notice the people around me. An older gentleman pulled up at the gas pump across from me and started talking, "You look very tired. Are you okay?"

"I'm just in deep thought," I replied.

"A very important Person once said, 'Be anxious for nothing'. Remember that."

Boy, that sure woke me up! I have to remember to quit figuring things out on my own. It's a lot of responsibility to bear, I know--but I don't have to bear it alone. I know God is always present to help...and God had to use a stranger to remind me! And there I was trying to control my circumstances, again, even if it was just all happening inside my head.

It's not about me, it's about Him! God was trying to get my attention all along as I was selfishly focusing on the wrong things (myself, for one) when I should have been focusing on Him.

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-8

I should stop "thinking too much" to the point that I overwork myself. Instead, I should start praying, trusting, and following His lead. It has worked before, and I know it always will.

I never thought I'd be reminded of a great and timely lesson...at the gas station (of all places)! Life is hard, yes. But, it certainly is filled with lots of wonderful lessons that we can all use, reuse, and share.

God's Beautiful Creation

My first piano-only composition back in April of this year: I was thankful to finally get to see the sunset from my own condo as I was settling back in Hawaii after being away for two years. So, I thought of putting all of my Hawaii sunset photos together while trying to get some music "out of my head", onto my piano, into my macbook pro, and out to you :)

The Beautiful Island of Oahu

Sharing what my eyes have seen on Oahu during the first six months that I've been back...

Remember

Remembering how God has miraculously seen us through even amid the toughest of times...and claiming each day that He will do it, again! God is ever-faithful!

(I composed the song; however, I'm too tired to refine it...I have yet to get a pedal for my electronic piano...need to arrange the music some more...)

Then You Found Me

Then You Found Me

My Jesus,
I love You
With all of my heart
And I praise You
For all that You've done
In my life
You have always been caring
Your love is unceasing
To know You
I'll give everything!

I was lost
Then You found me
You gave hope
When no one did
Though all the world
Turns back on me
I know...
I can trust Thee.

I know that
You'll guide me
Though dark it may seem
And You see ev'ry
Tear that I've fought from within
You have always shown mercy
With You I won't worry
Your grace is
Sufficient for me!

I was lost
Then You found me
You gave hope
When no one did
Though all the world
Turns back on me
I know...
I can trust Thee.

And I won't doubt You
Yes, I will seek You
Your Words
I shall live to obey

I was lost
Then You found me
You gave me hope
When no one did
Though all the world
Turns back on me...

Though all that's left
Is just You and me
I'm glad...
That You found me.

Alone

This journey has undoubtedly been the most painful yet the most fruitful, so far. Yes, even more agonizing than my divorce years ago, as that can be explained with both logical and Biblical reasoning (I knew what the consequences would be). My current situation, however, seems to go beyond any human comprehension...and it is in such times that my faith is tried all the more! Yes, even amidst miserable comforters--those who use Scripture out of context to judge and rebuke another.

This is an opportunity to shine for Him, and by His power and grace, I shall have victory over this...in His perfect time, in His perfect way! One day...some day...I know it will come...not my will, but Thine be done!

Nevertheless, I can say:
"It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes." Psalm 119:71

It has been well over 9 months...

9 months of waiting, longing, wondering, sacrificing...and even suffering
9 months of asking, seeking, and knocking
9 months of trusting...and obeying
4 whole months of not-so-pleasant domestication training for motherhood, and now...
3 whole weeks of "isolation"...

Isolation isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Actually, I often prefer to be alone...
Alone to have a one-on-one with God,
Alone to kick, scream, and cry to God...
Alone to take God's loud or subtle rebuke...
Alone to be more productive,
Alone to just be lazy...
Alone to just relax!
Alone doesn't always equate to loneliness!!!

But...
Alone doesn't always only mean I, me, and myself...
Alone could also mean:
Alone as the only adult in the room
Alone in your Christian walk at any given time and place
Alone because you cannot fully share your thoughts and emotions for better reasons...
Alone because those around you look up to you for spiritual, emotional, and physical support...
Alone because you really don't want them to see you break down...
Alone because you don't always want to bother someone else about your thoughts, your woes...
Alone because you have to be strong for others...

Thankfully, if you possess Christ...
You are never truly alone!
He is ever-present!

He gives me strength
He gives me hope
He gives me courage
He gives me patience
He gives me rest
He gives me peace
He gives me joy

He gives me the power to face my fears
He lets me break down on my knees
He lets me come to Him in tears
He shows others His love and sovereignty through my sadness
He provides for every step, every mile of the way...

It has been 9 long months...
And He is still here...
He never left!
He never has!
He never will!!!

Without Him,
I may not even be here...

With Christ, I'm never alone...
With Christ alone, I'll always be content.

Do you have Christ? Do you really know Him?

If you managed to read this to the very end, then know this: He is drawing you closer to Him...beginning today...right where you are!

I heard this saying once:
"God loves you right where you are, but He loves you way too much for you to stay there!"

So, don't delay...don't resist...because the only one who will truly (and sorely) lose...is YOU.

Get out of your comfort zone, dust off your Bible, and start following Him today! It's never too late for a fresh start on the right path! It may not always be the easiest one, but it's the best one for you.

Which path will you choose???

Letting Go

Sometimes...
I don't understand
You got me this far,
You gave me these things
Just to leave them all behind
I shared them all
I even gave my all
But now...
You take them all away

I'll thank You now
While they're still here today
The moments slowly slip away
In a painful way
Such a painful way

I'm not giving up
I'm just letting go
Though where I'll be,
I just don't know
But I love You, so...
And I need You so...

I trust...
That You will make a way
To brighten my day,
To light up my way
Just to lead them to Your way
You love each one
You even gave Your Son
My life...
I give to You today!

I'll praise You now
Though these be gone away
Your presence takes the pain away
In a gentle way
Such a gentle way

I'm not giving up
I'm just letting go
Though where I'll be,
I just don't know
But I love You, so...
And I need You so...

So I'm letting go!
Yes, I'm letting go!

Sometimes...
I don't understand
But, I'm letting go
'Cause I love you so...

My Hiding Place

I reach out to You, Lord
Please reach out to me
All I want is You, Lord
I know You'll rescue me
Above the highest mountain
Below the deepest sea
Your love is so much greater
And I know You love me!

Be my Hiding Place
Oh, shower me with grace
And even when the shadows
Of fear take up my space
Be My Hiding Place
Oh, let me now embrace
The sweetness of Your presence
For all throughout my days...

Lord, You are my Maker
Lord, You are my Friend
Closer than a brother
You'll love me 'til the end
And though the stars come crashing
And my world starts crumbling
Your pow'r is so much greater
And onto You I'll cling!

You're my Hiding Place
Oh, shower me with grace
And even when the shadows
Of fear take up my space
You're my Hiding Place
Oh, let me now embrace
The sweetness of Your presence
For all throughout my days...

And, I'll just wait on You, Lord
In Your Word, I'll hope
I'll remember You, Lord
I'll remember You...

You're my Hiding Place
Oh, shower me with grace
And even when the shadows
Of fear take up my space
You're My Hiding Place
Oh, let me now embrace
The sweetness of Your presence
For all throughout my days...

You're my Hiding Place!

You Are The One

Lead me, guide me, and protect me
I will seek Thee, I long for Thee,
You are worthy!
The shadow of Your wing
The comfort that You bring
I'll live for You,
And with my all I'll sing...

You are (oh, You are) The One
You gave Your only Son
To die (yes, You died) for me
From sin You set me free
You are (oh, You are) The One

Hear me, help me, oh deliver me!
I will trust Thee, I'll wait on Thee
For Your glory!
Your matchless grace and love
You send from Heav'n above
I'll fly away to You
With wings just like a dove

You are (oh, You are) The One
You gave Your only Son
To die (yes, You died) for me
From sin You set me free
You are (oh, You are) The One

Be merciful to me
On my knees I cry to Thee
And in the stillness of the night
You answered me!

You are (oh, You are) The One
You gave Your only Son
To die (yes, You died) for me
From sin You set me free
You are (oh, You are) The One

You are (oh, You are) The One
You gave Your only Son
To die (yes, You died) for me
From sin You set me free
You are (oh, You are)
You are (oh, You are)
You are (oh, You are)
The One!

Feeling Useless?

Author: Unknown

The Next Time You Feel Like God Can't Use You, Just Remember:

Noah was a drunk; (Genesis 9:20-22).

Abraham was too old; (Genesis 17th chapter).

Isaac was a daydreamer; (Book of Genesis).

Jacob was a liar; (25th chapter of Genesis).

Leah was ugly, (Genesis 29:17).

Joseph was abused; (Genesis 37:24-36).

Moses stuttered; Exdodus 4:10).

Gideon was afraid; (Judges 8).

Samson had long hair and was a womanizer; (Judges 14th chapter).

Rahab was a prostitute; (Joshua 2:1).

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young; (Jere.1:6-7 and Ist Timothy).

David had an affair and was a murderer; (2nd Samuel 11:3-27).

Elijah was suicidal; (1 King 19th chapter).

Isaiah preached naked; (Isaiah 37th chapter).

Jonah ran from God; (The book of Jonah)

Naomi was a widow; (Ruth 1:3).

Job went bankrupt; (The Book of Job).

Peter denied Christ; (Matt.26:69-70).

The Disciples fell asleep while praying; (Matt.14:37).

Martha worried about everything; (Luke 10:40).

Magadalene was well you know, (Mark 16:9).

The Samaritan woman was divorced more than once; (John:4:8).

Zaccheus was too small; (Luke 19:3).

Paul was too religious; (Acts 8:1).

Timothy had an ulcer;...AND...(1Timothy 5:23).

Lazarus was dead! (John 11 chapter).

NOW! No more excuses! God can use you to your full potential.

Besides you aren't the message, you are just the messenger.

Fill In The Blanks

During a very trying time in my life, my mom shared with me Psalm 46:1-3:

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah."

Then she continued to encourage me by telling me to fill in the blanks in verses 2-3 by personalizing it with my own problems: "Therefore will not we fear, though _____, and though _____; Though _______, though _____. Selah."

What are your problems? Compare them with the massive problems noted in Psalm 46:2-3. Don't they look pretty small now? Then, compare them with God. Isn't God much bigger than our problems?

Too often, we think our problems are so great that we end up falling in a depressed state. This happens when we place our focus on our problem and not on God. If we use our problems as a means to draw ourselves closer to God, then we would hit at least two birds with one stone.

"Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Why don't you fill in those blanks with your own problems, today? Then, focus on God and not on your problem...or yourself. Get on your knees and cast your burden at His feet. He will carry you through, and His love will shine brightly through you!

The Matchless Pearl

A friend of mine shared this beautiful story with me today, so I thought I'd also share it with you.

The Matchless Pearl
-- Author Unknown


David Morse - American missionary to India - became great friends there with the pearl-diver, Rambhau. Many an evening he spent in Rambhau's cabin reading to him from the Bible, and explaining to him God's way of salvation.

Rambhau enjoyed listening to the Word of God, but whenever the missionary tried to get Rambhau to accept Christ as his Savior - he would shake his head and reply, "Your Christian way to heaven is too easy for me! I cannot accept it. If ever I should find admittance to heaven in that manner - I would feel like a pauper there...like a beggar who has been let in out of pity. I may be proud - but I want to deserve, I want to earn my place in heaven -- and so I am going to work for it."

Nothing the missionary could say seemed to have any effect on Rambhau's decision, and so quite a few years slipped by. One evening, however, the missionary heard a knock on his door, and on going to open it he found Rambhau there.

"Come in, dear friend," said Morse.

"No," said the pearl-diver. "I want you to come with me to my house, Sahib, for a short time -- I have something to show you. Please do not say 'No'."

"Of course I'll come," replied the missionary. As they neared his house, Rambhau said: "In a week's time I start working for my place in heaven; I am leaving for Delhi -- and I am going there on my knees."

"Man, you are crazy! It's nine hundred miles to Delhi, and the skin will break on your knees, and you will have blood-poisoning or leprosy before you get to Bombay."

"No, I must get to Delhi," affirmed Rambhau, "and the immortals will reward me for it! The suffering will be sweet - for it will purchase heaven for me!"

"Rambhau, my friend - you can't. How can I bear you to do it - when Jesus Christ has suffered and died to purchase heaven for you!"

But the old man could not be moved. "You are my dearest friend on earth, Sahib Morse. Through all these years you have stood by me in sickness, in want - you have been sometimes my only friend. But even you cannot turn me from my desire to purchase eternal bliss...I must go to Delhi!"

Inside the hut Morse was seated in the very chair Rambhau had specially built for him - where on so many occasions he had read to him the Bible.

Rambhau left the room to return soon with a small but heavy English strongbox. "I have had this box for years," said he, "and I keep only one thing in it. Now I will tell you about it, Sahib Morse. I once had a son..."

"A son! Why, Rambhau, you have never before said a word about him!"

"No, Sahib, I couldn't." Even as he spoke the diver's eyes were moistened.

"Now I must tell you, for soon I will leave, and who knows whether I shall ever return? My son was a diver too. He was the best pearl diver on the coasts of India. He had the swiftest dive, the keenest eye, the strongest arm, the longest breath of any man who ever sought for pearls.

What joy he brought to me! Most pearls, as you know, have some defect or blemish only the expert can discern, but my boy always dreamed of finding the 'perfect' pearl - one beyond all that was ever found. One day he found it! But even when he saw it - he had been under water too long... That pearl cost him his life, for he died soon after."

The old pearl diver bowed his head. For a moment his whole body shook, but there was no sound. "All these years," he continued, "I have kept this pearl - but now I am going, not to return, and to you, my best friend - I am giving my pearl."

The old man worked the combination on the strongbox and drew from it a carefully wrapped package. Gently opening the cotton, he picked up a mammoth pearl and placed it in the hand of the missionary.

It was one of the largest pearls ever found off the coast of India, and glowed with a luster and brilliance never seen in cultured pearls. It would have brought a fabulous sum in any market.

For a moment the missionary was speechless and gazed with awe. "Rambhau! What a pearl!"

"That pearl, Sahib, is perfect," replied the Indian quietly. The missionary looked up quickly with a new thought: Was not this the very opportunity and occasion he had prayed for - to make Rambhau understand the value of Christ's sacrifice? So he said, designedly, "Rambhau, this is a wonderful pearl, an amazing pearl. Let me buy it. I would give you ten thousand dollars for it."

"Sahib! What do you mean?"

"Well, I will give you fifteen thousand dollars for it, or if it takes more - I will work for it."

"Sahib," said Rambhau, stiffening his whole body, "this pearl is beyond price. No man in all the world has money enough to pay what this pearl is worth to me. On the market a million dollars could not buy it. I will not sell it to you. You may only have it as a gift."

"No, Rambhau, I cannot accept that. As much as I want the pearl, I cannot accept it that way. Perhaps I am proud, but that is too easy. I must pay for it, or work for it..."

The old pearl-diver was stunned. "You don't understand at all, Sahib. Don't you see. My only son gave his life to get this pearl, and I wouldn't sell it for any money. Its worth is in the life-blood of my son. I cannot sell this - but I can give it to you. Just accept it in token of the love I bear you."

The missionary was choked, and for a moment could not speak. Then he gripped the hand of the old man. "Rambhau," he said in a low voice, "don't you see? My words are just what you have been saying to God all the time."

The diver looked long and searchingly at the missionary, and slowly, slowly he began to understand. "God is offering you salvation as a free gift," said the missionary. "It is so great and priceless that no man on earth can buy it. Millions of dollars are too little. No man on earth could earn it. His life would be millions of years too short. No man is good enough to deserve it. It cost God the life-blood of His only Son to make the entrance for you into heaven. In a million years, in a hundred pilgrimages, you could not earn that entrance. All you can do is to accept it as a token of God's love for you - a sinner.

"Rambhau, of course I will accept the pearl in deep humility, praying God that I may be worthy of your love. Rambhau, won't you accept God's great gift of heaven, too, in deep humility, knowing it cost Him the death of His Son to offer it to you?"

Great tears were now rolling down the cheeks of the old man. The veil was beginning to lift. "Sahib, I see it now. I have believed in the doctrine of Jesus for the last two years, but I could not believe that His salvation was free. Now I understand. Some things are too priceless to be bought or earned. Sahib, I will accept His salvation!"

(Source: http://inspire21.com/site/stories/pearl.html)

Emptying My Cup

My brother and I sang this as a duet in church many many years ago, perhaps when I was only 11 years old. I've even recorded it on iTunes as a lullaby to my boys, since I can't keep up with them requesting me to sing it over and over again for them...hence, the lyrics have remained in my head, and it speaks so powerfully to me today. It really seems as if God is emptying my cup so He can fill it up, again.

Channels Only
by Mary E. Maxwell - 1900

How I praise Thee, precious Saviour
That Thy love laid hold of me;
Thou hast saved and cleansed and filled me
That I might Thy channel be.

Emptied that Thou shouldest fill me,
A clean vessel in They hand;
With no pow'r, but as Thou givest
Graciously with each command.

Witnessing Thy pow'r to save me,
Setting free from self and sin;
Thou Who boughtest to possess me,
In Thy fullness, Lord, come in.

Jesus, fill now with Thy Spirit
Hearts that full surrender know;
That the streams of living water
From our inner man may flow.

Chorus:
Channels only, Blessed Master,
But with all Thy wondrous pow'r
Flowing through us, Thou canst use us
Ev'ry day and ev'ry hour.

A Miracle In April

It's April yet again...the month that has consistently filled my days with high emotions since pretty much the beginning of time. Newsflash: I'm still unemployed, and now I've got 2 condos that are about to be vacated...almost thought it would be 3 when I heard last week that my grandfather wasn't doing well...and my mom and aunt would then have to vacate my place in Orlando to care for my grandfather. By God's grace, he is doing much better.

I can't deny that my heart has been heavy...much heavier today than days before of not having the cash flow that I'm used to. Thankfully, with each new day, God has given me courage, strength, and peace...to adjust...and appreciate His goodness. He never runs out of blessings! I am so thankful that God has given us His Word to meditate upon, His promises to claim...knowing that He hears us, He cares for us, He loves us unconditionally, and that He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Here are some of the verses that He has impressed upon my heart this evening. My own words are not enough to express what I'm going through, and I don't really see the value in sharing my own words, especially tonight. Instead, I feel blessed to be able to use God's Words to express my thoughts and feelings as well as use them as a source of comfort and blessing.

I am really hoping for a miracle in April!

Matthew 6:8b: "For your Heavenly Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask of Him."

Matthew 6:26: "Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your Heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?"

Matthew 6:30: "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?"

Matthew 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Matthew 6:34: "Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."

Matthew 7:7-11: "Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask Him?"

Matthew 8:26-27: "And He saith unto them, 'Why are ye fearful? O ye of little faith?' Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, 'What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him!'"

Matthew 9:28b-29: "'Believe ye that I am able to do this?' They said unto Him, 'Yea Lord.' Then touched He their eyes saying, 'According to your faith be it unto you.'"

Matthew 10:40-41: "He that receiveth you receiveth Me, and he that receiveth Me receiveth Him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall have a righteous man's reward."

Matthew 11:28-30: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Job 1:21b-22: "The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly."

Job 6:8: "Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for!"

Job 6:24: "Teach me, and I will hold my tonuge: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred."

Job 10:8: "Thine hands have made me and fashioned me together round about; yet thou dost destroy me."

Job 10:15c-16: "I am full of confusion; therefore see thou mine affliction. For it increaseth. Thou huntest me as a fierce lion: and again thou shewest thyself marvellous upon me."

Job 16:21: 'O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbor!"

Job 19:25: "For I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:"

Job 23:10: "But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold."

Job 40:4: "Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer Thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth."

Psalm 19:14: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer."

Still Waiting?

What characteristics do you need to possess while learning how to wait?

The most obvious answer would be: patience.

While reading my Bible today, God revealed 2 additional characteristics that are needed while waiting:
1) Strength
2) Courage

Personally, I don't think I'd be able to wait patiently without these two. I'd give up pretty quickly, no doubt about that. It won't be long before I start to worry and frantically take matters into my own hands.

So, WHERE and HOW do you draw strength and courage during the most difficult times while you wait for deliverance?

These are the verses God shared with me today:

"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." Psalm 27:14

"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:24

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

These verses clearly show that the LORD is our Source for strength and courage. Now that we know WHERE to draw it from, the question is, "HOW?"

"Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you." James 4:8a

I'm not a very patient person. But, as I draw near to God and allow Him to fill me with His Spirit, He gives me the strength and courage needed to face adversity while waiting patiently for His answer or deliverance.

"If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small." Proverbs 24:10

Are you faced with problems that keep coming back and you wonder if there's ever going to be a light at the end of the tunnel? Have you been praying to God to grant your request and it seems like He is never going to answer? Are you sometimes tempted to just take matters into your own hands, regardless of the consequences, just to put an end to all of your pain and suffering? Or, are you waiting and trusting in the LORD? Don't you think He knows exactly what you're going through?

"I will be glad and rejoice in Thy mercy: for Thou hast considered my trouble; Thou hast known my soul in adversities;" Psalm 31:7

God knows, and He cares. He will give us the strength and courage we need to carry on.

"Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7

"Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22

Don't lose hope! Develop a personal relationship with the LORD, accept Him as your Savior today, and let Him be your guide.

Related Articles:
How Long???
The Waiting Game

Reminder: Listen First

If you lack patience, there's a high probability that you're also not the best listener. You may even be quick to speak and judge at times. I know I'm guilty of this when I'm not Spirit-filled, especially after a long day.

Here's an article from "Our Daily Bread" that's an interesting read:

"I'M INNOCENT!"
Read: James 1:19-25

All of the students at a school in Florida—2,550 in total—were in trouble. A message system notified every parent that their child (or children) had detention that weekend for bad behavior. Many kids pleaded their innocence, yet some parents meted out punishment anyway. One mother, Amy, admitted that she yelled at her son and made sure he showed up for his detention on Saturday.

To the relief of 2,534 kids, and to the embarrassment of some parents, they discovered that the automated message was sent in error to the entire student body when only 16 kids actually deserved detention! Amy felt so bad about not listening to and believing her son that she took him out for breakfast that Saturday morning.

We all have stories to tell about circumstances that have shown us our need to listen before we speak. We’re naturally tempted to come to quick judgments and react angrily. The book of James gives us these three practical exhortations to deal with life’s stressful situations: “Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19).

In life’s stresses, let’s be “doers of the Word” (v.22), and take the time to listen and show restraint with our words and anger today. — Anne Cetas

A judgment made without the facts
Is sure to be unfair,
So always listen to both sides—
You’ll find the answer there. —Branon

Listen to understand, then speak with love.

Source: http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/03/27/devotion.aspx

How Long???

It's 2:30AM, and I'm waiting for another 30 minutes so I can call the court in Mississippi re: how to handle the speeding ticket that I got earlier this year. That was the last thing I needed after having attended my uncle's funeral and driving all the way from Orlando to Louisiana for the first time, while preparing to move to Hawaii, looking for a job, dealing with real estate issues, etc.

While waiting for the clock, I decided to read Scripture before Satan tries to plant more discouraging ideas in my head. Psalm 13 was just what the Doctor had ordered! The Psalmist sounded pretty desperate and dramatic at the opening of the chapter: "HOW LONG (take note, in ALL CAPS) wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever?..."

It's great to see in this chapter that we can have an open dialogue with the Lord. Yes, we can vent! The key here is that he never lost hope while waiting. He kept on trusting God despite his woes! Apparently, the chapter had a happy ending - not necessarily one where God answered his prayer. David didn't need an answered prayer in order to have joy from within. All he needed was God. Praise God he was still able to say in verse 6, "I will sing unto the LORD, because He hath dealt bountifully with me."

David changed his focus from himself (beginning of the chapter) to God (ending of the chapter). May we be able to say the same kind of prayer. May we be able to have the same kind of attitude. Where have we placed our focus?

It's so easy to focus on our circumstances as we wait on the Lord to answer a specific prayer...as we wait on Him to "bless" us in a certain way (yes, I am still waiting for the right job to come at the right time). In doing so, we sometimes forget about the other blessings He had already showered us with, blessings that we can think upon or even take advantage of at this very moment to bless others, despite our need.

I can name quite a few instances where God had to remind me of great blessings that seem to keep on slipping my mind--things that I can enjoy for myself and/or share with others, while waiting. He uses the needs of others to "remind" me of what He has already given me. And, it doesn't seem to end there. After I gladly agree to share my blessings, God then makes a way where I can share them and use them for myself, too! It's just like that poor widow's cruse of oil that never ran out when she agreed to share whatever food she had left to share with Elijah.

It is when you open your hand instead of closing your fist during a time of great need that you can truly say the words in Psalm 13:6: "I will sing unto the LORD, because He hath dealt bountifully with me."

It's now exactly 3:00AM. It's time to call Mississippi at 8:00AM their time.

Related article: The Waiting Game

An Appropriate Reminder

Sometimes, we get so focused on what we want that we lose sight of what we have. Are you allowing yourself to be identified by your circumstances?

Currently listening to: Sermon at Ohana Baptist Church

All I Need

My second composition from last year: Special thanks to my friend, Christian, for the acoustic guitar version.

Harsh Weather In Hawaii

We are currently experiencing severe weather conditions on rough terrain on the island of Oahu, as a result of involuntarily embarking on a journey to Domestication.

For the past 27 years of my life, a good chunk of it had been spent outside of the home. There would be times I'd be home for dinner (usually prepared by someone else or something I had purchased at a nearby drive-thru). I'd say I had legitimate reasons: school, sports, church activities, work, kids' activities, travel...

Such a lifestyle hinders domestication, a word often scoffed at by quite a few ambitious women...regretfully, myself included. While I certainly have nothing against those women (and men) who have developed such admirable traits, I would always give the excuse that such a trait isn't for me. I know my weaknesses.

Outside of work, I'd typically lug my children along. Gabriel started flying with us when he was only 6 weeks old, the soonest possible time an infant is allowed to travel. He did pretty well from Honolulu to Orlando. Diego started flying with us at 9 months, and because he had a cold suppressed by medication at the time, he did just fine from Honolulu to D.C. Last month was quite an adventure: a road trip from Orlando to Louisiana. Anti-boredom activities included resting at McDonald's Play Places for every state border that we crossed, stopping at the beautiful beaches of Pensacola Beach, Florida, and Orange Beach, Alabama, as well as hearing me fight with my GPS while getting lost in Alabama, and even watching as I got pulled over by some ranger in Mississippi for speeding. 86 on 65. Great.

Tomorrow marks our 30th day of being back in Honolulu. With God's clear leading, we decided not to take that return flight to Orlando this past Saturday. Right now, Orlando sounds more comfortable and convenient, with 2 places to stay, a nice 'n comfy ride (yes, I left my SUV there), guaranteed parking (which is almost non-existent in Honolulu), and more family (especially my mom) to help take care of the kids whenever needed...oh, and FREE passes to Disney to entertain the kids. Hmm, sounds like a similar situation I chose to leave 2 years ago while living in Honolulu: 2 places to stay, 2 guaranteed parking stalls of my choice with only 1 car, a great job with great benefits that allowed me to have a babysitter full-time and send Diego to a nearby Christian school...what else could I possibly ask for?

And now, the 3 of us are here on an island, still without a job, but never without God: One Who hears, One Who answers, One Who cares, One Who Provides...and so much more! Having God is enough.

The job I had been hoping for fell through this past Friday. The one whom I had least expected to receive spiritual encouragement from, spoke at the right time. Diego, my 6-year-old, interjects, "God probably said, 'No, that's not the one!'" It would have been so tempting to catch that return flight to Orlando on the very next day!

I know God has something in store for us here. For me, personally - well - for starters, a course that's been long overdue: Domestication. According to my standards, I have been stuck at home for the last 30 days...by choice. Having no unrestricted cash flow during such an economy restricts me from paying for such conveniences such as eating out each day, etc. Just check out the local prices in Hawaii for eating out, you'll know what I mean. Since we have been here, I have prepared all 3 meals for the 3 of us and sometimes for my brother and his family - breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This means washing the dishes for all 3 meals, setting up, cleaning up, etc. Oh, did I mention the laundry? I can now say, this is the hardest job, ever (regardless of the delegation of responsibilities to minors)! Kudos to those stay-at-home moms who can do all of this, every single day, and still say at the end of the day: "I love my kids and I can't stop talking about them!" Hey, I'm just being transparent.

So, who ever said I'm jobless after all? I've actually got the greatest job God has ever given women: motherhood. Okay, this and fulfilling the Great Commission.

Anyway, imagine a very driven, undomesticated, unemployed, Generation Y female who has hardly cooked a decent meal and who barely knows where everything is situated around the house (due to a busy lifestyle and moving at least 7 times locally and coast-to-coast in the last 3 years...real estate investing does that to you), now having to stay home with 2 little boys trying to figure out how and what to feed them every single day...and what do you get???

Here a 4 different "modes":

A) A grateful single mother who is humbled by God's salvation, God's abundant blessings of not having to work so many jobs just to make ends meet (thus not getting to spend any time at all with the children), having the best family and friends who are ready to help, having a caring church family here and in Orlando, having all 3 properties occupied and mortgages paid in full, on time, and seeing them well-maintained, having a car (that runs and has A/C) to borrow for free, staying with family rent-free and having access to the coolest electronics including the Wii, having parents that pray for me daily, what else??? I can't think of any more words that rhyme at the moment.

B) A numb, desensitized, and indifferent creature with no reaction

C) A bratty, impatient, hot-tempered "27-year-old child" whose eyes are now opened to her children's imperfections (and hopefully her own) and having to clean up after them and put out fires, while juggling many other activities to "ensure smooth operations" around the house, thus having the tendency to lash out and deliver a nasty, cold-hearted 2-cent-speech. Whew!

D) Abandonment, a total and silent detachment with no more emotions invested.

My Answers:

• When operating "in the flesh", my default setting would be mode (B).
• When operating "in the flesh" and put under severe temperatures, it would be mode (C).
• When operating "in the Spirit", it's mode (A).
• At this time, there is no need to discuss (D), by God's grace.
  

In the last 30 days, I had never imagined I'd be in "severe weather conditions on very rough terrain" whilst in Paradise. Granted, I had known that it wouldn't be smooth-sailing in the beginning...

In such situations, I really need a reliable compass (in this generation, a GPS). I need to know where north is. I need direction. God's message this past Sunday at Ohana Baptist Church was about God's compass and our integrity. Wikipedia defines integrity as: "an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting". The sample sentence was: "The integrity of the nervous system is required for normal development ." Wow.

If you're naturally stubborn like me, I don't always listen to my GPS (my cousin, Christine, named her Maggie, because it's a Magellan). Only when I realize that I'm totally lost would I start paying very, very close attention to what Maggie has to say. It would have been better to have listened (or paid attention) to her in the first place! The GPS isn't always reliable when it comes to giving the best directions, but GOD IS, was, and always will be! The message on Sunday really knocked a big question into my thick skull, "Am I really seeking God first in my life? Or, am I exhausting my own strength to find security for my family and simply asking God to rubberstamp it?" Remember: Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 6:33, and Psalm 23:1, just to name a few!

Just after this Aha moment, Satan strikes, again! This morning, I found myself operating in Mode (C), again! God's Spirit quickly convicted me, so I turned to my spiritual compass/GPS, God's Word.

It says in James 1:19b,"...Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:"

Yes, in that order!

Slow to wrath addresses Mode B (my default setting)
Slow to speak addresses Mode C (my unstable, combustible setting)
Swift to hear addresses Mode A (my ideal setting)

Perhaps, if I used my 5 senses more (my Myers-Briggs results=low in sensing, high in intuition), i.e. "swift to hear," "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good", etc., I'd find myself in Mode (A) more often. Notice how "talking" isn't one of the five senses.

So, if you were in my shoes - or even if you weren't - ask yourself:

• What would be your default setting?
  
• What is your ideal setting, based on God's standards?
• After identifying the gap, how do you plan to reach your ideal setting every second/minute/hour of each day?
• Do you have your spiritual GPS closeby?

Remember, the heart is the closest, safest, and most accessible place to store your spiritual GPS. Psalm 119:11 states, "Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee."

In life, you never know when you're going to get lost in some rough terrain. Be prepared.

Lord, I Need You

Sometimes when life seems gentle
and blessings flood my way
I turn my gaze away from You
and soon forget to pray
But when the sky grows darker
and courage turns to fear
My anxious voice cries upward
with words You long to hear

Lord, help me to remember
I'm weak but You are strong
I cannot sing apart from You
for Lord, You are my song
Although I'm prone to wander
and boast in all I do
Lord, keep my eyes turned upward
so I depend on You

Lord, I need You
when the sea of life is calm
O Lord, I need You
when the wind is blowing strong
Whether trials come or cease
Keep me always on my knees
Lord, I need You
Lord, I need You

Copyright 1998 Majesty Music, Inc. CCLI#2277639

Wanted: Morale Boosters

Happy Aloha Friday! It’s nice to be back home in Hawai’i after approximately two years of being away. While it’s great seeing friends, family, and familiar faces and places again, there is one thing that cannot go unnoticed: their morale is down. 2008 has been a very emotional time for everyone, and we are either fearful or hopeful for 2009. President-elect Barack Obama surely has a lot on his shoulders, and he definitely needs our prayers - whether you voted for him or not.

A lot has changed while I’ve been away. My boss, her boss, more bosses, and all the way up to the two Presidents of two different entities within the same large organization have either gotten laid off or have since retired. Many of my friends, regardless of their years of service, have lost their jobs and are about to lose their homes and face foreclosure or bankruptcy. The ones who have retired have lost quite a great deal with their investments during this economic downturn. Then, I hear about many businesses closing down, loss of loved ones in the war going on in the Middle East, and families hurting as they repeatedly see their loved ones off to go to the war zone.

Dwelling on these thoughts long enough can quickly get you in a depressed state. This phenomenon has already increased the demand for psychiatrists and behavioral health institutions! At least, this is what I had heard (and seen) while I was living in Orlando, Florida.

This then brings me back to the time when I had the opportunity to be a part of the Planning Committee for the first Greater Orlando Scavenger Hunt (GOSH). The purpose of the event was not only to serve as a morale booster for the economy during stressful times, it also created added exposure for local businesses as well as raise funds for a non-profit organization of our choice: The National MS Society Mid-Florida Chapter. The all-day event commenced at Blue Jacket Park in Winter Park, Florida, on October 25, 2008, and ended at the Orlando International Airport. Participants proudly marched into the airport wearing their Burger King crowns, pink hair, glittery-pink toenails (for the guys), photos, paraphernalia, and what-not, in an effort to win the grand prize or simply, to have fun. The National MS Society was very impressed with the overall results that they asked Event Coordinator James Zimbardi, Senior Partner with Allgen Financial Services, Inc., that the event be held annually.

This is a great example of how the community can come together to help lift each others’ spirits during tough times while having fun and creating lasting memories. May it serve as an example for others to follow in their own communities.

If you have any great stories to share about how you or someone you know has helped your community, please post a comment. We need more community morale boosters!

Here are some related links about the 2008 Greater Orlando Scavenger Hunt:

Official Site of the Big Gosh
Major Success: Greater Orlando Scavenger Hunt
Great Idea Award
On Social Media: Ning Features GOSH Site

The World's Best Helpers

I believe children are the world's best helpers. Sure, household chores may bore them, but that applies to must of us adults, anyway. Children offer their help with beaming anticipation, typically without expecting anything in return but our genuine approval. Children like to be a part of big things beyond the four corners of their room, and the busy, working parent(s) often spend what's left of their family time "entertaining" the children, making sure they are "happy" whether through TV, buying them the newest toys and gadgets or the best clothes, taking them to the coolest theme parks, etc. While these measures aren't bad per se, it is no surprise that we as parents are unknowingly creating a generation that thinks of themselves first, before others.

The truth is, the world isn't all about you! It's not about what you can get, but what you can do to serve God and others. Many people go out on a limb to search for happiness with the wrong priorities only to find themselves depressed, ending up in the wrong places, with the wrong people. As a child, I could still remember the sign posted on our door: J-O-Y = Jesus First, Others Next, Yourself Last. Pretty simple, but very easy to forget! Usually it's because we're either too far from the need to help others (out of sight, out of mind), or we see too much of it (often getting desensitized and indifferent). Sadly, our children are watching. The good news is, it's never too late to get a fresh start and create a culture of giving and serving others in need. Opportunities abound. The world needs more helpers. Ask your child to help today, you'll see.

How Well Do You Know Me?

When you truly know someone personally, you'll know their "signature traits", styles (even their writing style), patterns, behaviors, etc. It makes it easy for you to quickly detect an impostor!

An important question then comes to mind: how well do you know God, personally? If we, as humans, are able to get to know individuals who change a lot (even those who change their mind and mood like the Florida weather - you know, the passive-aggressive ones? Okay, don't get me started...), how can we then not be able to get to know God Who is the same yesterday, today, and forever?

I'm guilty of this myself. There are still times when I would ask God, "Is that You, or am I just hearing things and/or making things up to suit my preferences?" Or even, "God, are You sure? Am I hearing You correctly?" How about, "You mean, NOW, LORD?" Better yet, "Did you just say, 'Wait'"? Like how much longer?" I've got a lot of self-centered reasoning in my back pocket.

Adversity is a great test to see how much you truly know God, personally. It's very easy to sink into the "Woe-Is-Me" mode. Looking back at 2008, I could easily say, "Boy, was 2008 a horrible year for me!" Failed "re-relationship (whatever you call it), my first speeding ticket, we almost lost my stepdad, my uncle suddenly passed away, too many friends and families with emergencies, ever-changing family and living situations, a very different financial and professional landscape, property issues...just to name a few!

Then I started looking at my photos taken in 2008. Those looking at my photos would never believe the hardships that I've been through, especially if they didn't really know me. These photos made me to think back to the times when I was also facing lots of adversity, yet the Lord remained faithful. The blessings far outweighed the hardships. And, they always have. God has never changed.

I now only have 3 days left until I depart Orlando, Florida. I can now truly sense God's hand in this big move (again). The "pattern" is so similar to the times when I was on my maternity leave (2005) and when I was leaving Honolulu (2007). There are still quite a few "unfamiliar roads" along the way, but God has given me a map, His Word, so that He can help me find the way.

Psalm 119:105 says, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

Allow God to let you get to know Him more today. God is always drawing us closer to Him. If you don't feel the tug, search your heart. Perhaps it's time for an "open heart surgery" with God.

Psalm 139:23-24 states, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."