A Christmas reflection from "His Kindness Year Round"

Christmas is past and 2013 is rapidly approaching . . .

A couple of weeks ago at my parent's house, I unintentionally found a Bible from my pre and early teen years (The Children's Living Bible).  It was in God's pure divine timing I found this Bible.  The scripture is reader friendly for a teen to comprehend, yet also extremely accurate (not in story form, but actual scripture).  Just a couple of days before I found this Bible, the Lord led me to read the book of Luke.  It has been a treat to read it in my newly found Bible!

On Christmas Eve, as I began to read Luke, chapter 2, I reached for the Children's Bible.  My thoughts went back to earlier years.  In the Christmas story, it seems most kids wanted to be a majestic wise man or beaming angel or the key roles of Mary or Joseph. 

I always wanted to be a shepherd, keeper of the sheep.  I wanted to be the first to whom the angels announced the birth of our Savior. 

Luke 2:14 "'Glory to God in the highest heaven,' they sang, 'and peace on earth for all those pleasing Him.'"

The shepherds, messengers to the others of the birth of Jesus.

Luke 2:17 "The shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child."

The shepherds, praising God for seeing the baby in a manger and for their visit by angels. 

Luke 2:20 "Then the shepherds went back to their fields and flocks, praising God for the visit of the angels, and because they had seen the child, just as the angel had told them."

I trust your Christmas was bright, as you celebrated the birth of our Savior; as you told others about Him; and as you praised God, the Most High, just as the shepherds years ago!

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

(Scripture from The Children's Living Bible)

Prayers and Gratitude from "His Kindness Year Round"

Blessings to you today!

Last Friday, our nation witnessed a mammoth tragedy.  The long term results of the event are beyond measure. 

I am sincerely delighted to see the out pour of love and support from our country – from financial support to prayers.  On a smaller scale, it reminds me of September 11, 2001. 

That tragic crime over a decade ago brought this nation together as one.  Our patriotism as these united states soared immensely.  Support in the form of prayers and references to the love and protection of our Savior were phenomenal.  I hoped our nation was, indeed, becoming one nation, under God.

Psalm 133:1 “How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony!”

Unfortunately, as time lapsed, so did the spiritual acknowledgement from our people.

After a conversation last week with a dear friend who holds the same sentiments as I share, I wrote:  

“I am very grateful to see the prayers being lifted for the community of Newtown, CT during this horrific tragedy. It would be wonderful to see prayers lifted daily, in praise and thanksgiving, for all the good things in life, too.”

I genuinely am thrilled at the response of prayers being offered to our God for the community of Newtown.  I hope the unity of prayer to our Heavenly Father is long standing.  Every day, during times of calm seas and during times of choppy oceans, we should talk to our Father.  It’s okay to speak our needs because God wants us to tell Him what’s in our heart, but if you look back at the Lord’s prayer, Matthew 6:9 reads, “This, then, is how you should pray:  ‘Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name”.  In other words, acknowledge His holiness – His splendor – thank Him – PRAISE Him – love Him!  Every day should have some time of praise to our Father.  When someone converses with us on a regular basis, we want to hear about the bright moments and days as well as the trials and needs.  As I seem to recite quite frequently the past month -- Praise GOD from whom all blessings flow and to Him be the glory for great things He has done!  If today isn’t your merriest, still praise our Him.  Apparently you can be thankful for your eyesight, as you are able to read this blog . . . .

Psalm 31:21 “Praise the Lord, for He has shown me His unfailing love.”

Psalm 86:12 “With all my heart I will praise You, Oh Lord, my God.  I will give glory to Your name forever.”

My heartfelt prayers to Newtown and our nation.

(If you have not had the opportunity to hear Mike Huckabee’s three minute video about his thoughts on Newtown, CT, it’s definitely worth listening to.  You can find it on YouTube, his website, or on face book.)  

Prayerfully, with gratitude, your sister in Him,

Robin

(Coming soon in January -- the second annual "Be Extra Kind to Someone Day" . . . . !)

A Week before the Celebration from His Kindness Year Round!

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

It's difficult to believe Christmas is just a week away. 

  

Years ago, the question was asked of me – If Christmas represents the celebration of the birth of Jesus, why don’t we ever have a birthday cake for Him?

As I was pondering this, thinking of the “usual” Christmas traditions of this season – Christmas trees and lights and ornaments and sending cards and giving gifts (don’t forget wrapping also) and singing carols and togetherness with friends and family and stockings and candy canes and wise men and shepherds and angels and Mary, Joseph, and the babe in swaddling clothes and then there is Santa and reindeer and etc. . . . . why have I never baked a birthday cake for our Redeemer?

It was my dear husband, Lee, who had asked me this question, almost twenty years ago.  Since that time, I have baked a birthday cake for Jesus every year.  Along with all the Christmas season goodies and desserts on December 25, there is now a birthday cake also. 

I know if there were a celebration in heaven for the Son of God, I’m sure Lee would be in the midst of it each year, since that first December in 2005.  Celebrating the birth of the Savior with the Savior!  My mind can't even imagine this sort of jubilation!

This year, Happy Birthday cake for Jesus will be a Chocolate Chip Cake, with powdered sugar sprinkled on top . . . . . .

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

We love you!

Please remember the true reason of the season, and praise, glorify, honor and celebrate Jesus!

Luke 2:8-16 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”  When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”  So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.  But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.  The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Prayerfully, your sister in Him!

Robin

Singing a Psalm from "His Kindness Year Round"

Merry Christmas season!

Psalm 23:1a “The Lord is my Shepherd”

Several weeks ago, I began to silently recite the 23rd Psalm.  I kept getting ‘stuck’ on the first verse.  I could almost hear David playing his lyre and singing the Psalms.

“The Lord is my Shepherd” . . . . that means I am a sheep.  He knows His sheep by name and cares for us above the highest level possible to man.  He protects, guards, and keeps us safe.

As I repeated the verse . . . . the Lord is MY shepherd.  Not A shepherd -- but MY shepherd. The sheep know the voice of a shepherd.  They (we) are somewhat helpless and can’t take care of themselves well.  Sometimes they can’t find their own pastures or water. Sheep are very dependent on the shepherd, and good shepherds never leave their sheep alone. God knows each of us -- loves us for who we are. At the cross, the Good Shepherd gave up His life for his lambs.

As I continued to recite the rest of the Psalm, I was reminded of the greatness of our God . . . .

His provision in all situations;

His comfort in all circumstances; 

His guidance as He leads, giving us His Word as a guide book and the Holy Spirit as a guide; 

His restoration of our souls;

His walk with us, through the shadows, to the Light;

His offering of faith over any fear;

His supply of a rod to protect us and a cane-like staff to keep us from going astray;

His bounteous table set before us in front of our enemies -- a table of health and joy and peace and strength and purpose and love and victory;

His honor of anointing us, His chosen ones, with oil;

All this, as He overflows our cups . . . . not running out of mercy or grace or hope or love, welcoming us into His Kingdom;

His goodness and mercy following us;

As we “will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” 

John 14:2-3 “In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” 

2 Corinthians 1:3 "All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us."

1 Chronicles 16:34 "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!  His faithful love endures forever."

As His child, He will personally take you with Him to His eternal home.  God will be with you on earth, through pain and illness and suffering and trials and grief and fatigue and fear and disappointment and loneliness and dark days -- we are with Him. Before you were born, He had already claimed you and reserved your room in heaven -- a room with your name on it. Life on this earth IS temporary.  We are here for a short time in comparison to our home in eternity.  Live preparing for your heavenly home.

Take time in this busy season to enjoy the Good Shepherd today!

Prayerfully, your sister sheep in Him,

Robin

All Ye Faithful Ones from "His Kindness Year Round"

Merry Christmas season to you!

Genesis 15:6 “And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord declared him righteous because of his faith.”

During the Thanksgiving holidays, I began listening to the Christmas music radio stations have begun to play.  It took me back to a time almost seven years ago.  I sat in the hospital chair, as my husband lay unconscious in the bed beside me.    

Each night, a local chorus would come and sing Christmas carols.  One particular, cold December evening, a group came by, singing “Silent Night”.  As I did each night, I sang along very softly with them.  When they finished the song, the leader of the small group asked if there was a particular song I’d like to hear.  Without even hesitating, I replied, “O Come All Ye Faithful”.  Immediately after speaking, I wondered why I’d asked for that song.  It wasn’t among my ‘favorites’ as far as Christmas carols.  It was not a song Lee cherished for any reason.  Why didn’t I suggest “Joy to the World” or “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”? 

There have been many occasions each Christmas season since that year that I have wondered why I selected that song.  Obviously, rather than being an insignificant moment to forget a song selection, it has been a request I’ve remembered.  But most importantly, I still ponder why I chose that particular song.

Just a few days ago on Thanksgiving evening, I mulled over that same thought – why “O Come All Ye Faithful”?  The past decade, more specifically the past few years and even more specifically, the past six months, I’ve experienced such a growth in my faith and trust in our Heavenly Father.  Dependence upon Him.  Direction from Him.  Obedience from trust and faith in Him does bring God’s blessings, in His timing. 

John 5:24 “I assure you, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life.”

The Holy Spirit spoke on Thanksgiving evening:  ‘O come all ye faithful’.  The song was for me.  Now I know why I singled out “O Come All Ye FAITHFUL”.  FAITHFUL.  As I was getting ready to embark upon the most life changing event of my life thus far, I was already being reminded to be faithful.  This was the beginning of the great stepping out in faith experience of my life.  Have faith.  Trust Him.  Believe in the Almighty.  Think and speak God’s desires for you and hold them in your heart.  Believe!  Persevere.  Prevail!  Because of Him.  And be thankful!  To God be the glory!  ADORE Him as He should be esteemed.  Our Christ the King!

“O come all ye faithful,

Joyful and triumphant,

O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem.

Come and behold Him,

Born the King of Angels;

O come, let us adore Him

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ the Lord!”

Expect.  Believe.  Receive, all ye faithful ones!

God loves us.  The maker of the stars would rather have His son die for you than to live without you.  That’s a powerful love.  

I hope you will take the time today to read Psalm 91. 

Psalm 91:11 “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;” 

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Today is from "His Kindness Year Round"

Thanksgiving blessings to all!

We have all heard, or said, "Today (tomorrow) is the first day of the rest of your life."

Psalm 118:24 "This is the day the Lord has made; let us REJOICE and be glad in it."

In recent months, I've realized every day is the first day of the rest of my life.  Each day is a new day with 24 hours to use as life determines and we choose.  Each day brings new life.  Each day brings new beginnings.  Each day, our Heavenly Father has given us new mercies and strength.  As I was recently reading from Rick Renner's "You Can Get Over It", 'You don't have to live today with the residual effect of what the devil did to you yesterday.  But it's time to move on and let the past be the past.'

All our todays and tomorrows are in God's hands.  We cannot change anything that happened yesterday or anything we did yesterday or anything someone else did yesterday.  We have today.  Today to grow and learn in the Lord.  Today to live to glorify Him.  Ya didn't like yesterday?  Today is new.  Like today!

Philippians 1:6 "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion."

I recognize it may seem easy to say “like” today.  But in actuality, we have to train our thoughts and our hearts and our spoken words to believe the new and not believe and declare the old.  It’s a process, which begins one step at a time.

When we feel life has so many changes occurring at once, we need to hold onto the constant, never changing Heavenly Father.  We learn further to depend upon Him and to follow His will for your life.  Not anyone else's will, but His will.  We listen to His direction.  Oh yes, you will have trials and you will have tests.  The enemy will try to tempt you.  Those things are stated in His Word and you know they will happen.  Be prepared.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

Psalm 138:8 "The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me."

Today is the first day of the rest of your life.  And when tomorrow arrives, it will be the first day of the rest of your life.  Make a choice to live it God's way.  Speaking from recent situations in my personal life, His way -- His timing -- always THE way. 

Colossians 1:16-17 "All things were created through Him and for Him.  He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and weekend, giving thanks to Him who does bring forth all blessings, giving glory to Him for the great things He has done, and will continue to do. 

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

An Ever Changing World from "His Kindness Year Round"

October has almost come to an end.  The days and weeks and months of 2012 have flown so quickly by.

Without doubt, October has been a month of tremendous change.  The natural evidence of summer turning to autumn as the leaves change colors and the weather loses its heat and humidity.  The union of marriage for several couples.  Monumental birthday celebrations for a few.  A new job for one and retirement for another.  A house fire resulting in the loss of all possessions, but more importantly, the life of a sister in Christ.  The unexpected deaths of two other magnificent people.  An illness for another.  And military deployment for one.  A mega storm for many.

This month has been a time of multiple reminders that our time on earth will be packed with constant change.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek His will in all you do and He will show you which path to take.”

In the midst of change, we are thankful for a constant in life.  We have one who never changes and is always with us through every aspect of earthly life:  our Heavenly Father never changes.  His Word always remains the same.  His promises are forever. 

Psalm 106:1 “Praise the Lord!  Give thanks for the Lord, for He is good!  His faithful love endures forever.”

Change is a definite fact of life.  But much more powerful than any earthly change and more certain than the daily changes of life is our Savior.

Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”

November will bring about another month of change.  As will December.  And January, etc.  That is a certain; a part of life.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.”

And our Almighty God is still going to reign in our lives through every change.  That’s always a certain; a part of life.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand.  I choose to stand with the solid rock. 

Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.”

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Thankful in Autumn from "His Kindness Year Round"

I love autumn!

Autumn has always been my favorite season (with spring as my second favorite).  I've had many people ask why I prefer autumn above spring.  Their remarks will point out that when autumn arrives, it's the dying of the beautiful flowers and leaves and greenery from spring and summer.  It means the not-too-distant winter will soon be upon us.  Why isn't spring my favorite season, I'll be asked, because of the blossoming of new life and the celebration of my favorite holiday, the Resurrection season. 

If you're waiting for an incredibly profound answer, there isn't one.  I love the crisp feel of autumn after the hot and humid summer.  I love the colors of fall.  I enjoy the burst of fresh autumn energy that erupts after a busy summer season.  I appreciate the peacefulness and quiet this time of year brings.  And of course, it's a great season to hold a warm mug of coffee and savor the pleasure of drinking it.

James 1:17 "Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, Who created all heaven's lights.  Unlike them, He never changes or casts shifting shadows."

This year has indeed been a busy one in my life.  It's been a chapter of change and many "to-do's".  One thing I have noticed is that I am still in the same chapter I started in the spring of this year.  The chapter hasn't closed; nothing has ended; a new one hasn't begun.  Yet, within this chapter of the past six months, there have been many sub titles of chapters, signifying new beginnings and changes, all within this same chapter.  It's been an interesting passage and a journey of spiritual growth with my Heavenly Father.  It's been a chapter of exercising my faith and taking steps in faith.  I'm experiencing sub chapters of learning how to rest and relax again, among the many tasks in life to accomplish.  I can't say I've loved every minute of the chapter, but I am working diligently to extend thankfulness and gratitude to Abba for His goodness through this chapter of change.  (Satan has used these experiences to frequently invite me to my own pity party.)

Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever."

Just as autumn is one of the four major seasons, it occurs every year whether people enjoy the season or not.  It is a season of change and preparation for the next season, whether we gladly await or dread the season ahead.  It's part of life and nature, just as the must needed season in my current life.  A true season of change for God's purpose. 

Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever."

There are many wondrous learning lessons in my current chapter of life.  I'm learning to be more thankful and more grateful for what I have.  I'm grasping on to being thankful in the present, before I see what God is doing, because I know God is going to make it happen.  It's exercising faith that He will see to my needs and His desires for me, in His timing.  

Amos 5:6 "Look for the Lord and live."

I'm learning to adjust to His true timing and being watchful, prayerful and obedient while I wait.  I'm watching God align the pathway in my life.  He puts all the puzzle pieces together that I have scattered about in many directions.

1 Chronicles 16:10-11 "Have joy in His Holy name.  Let the heart of those who look to the Lord be glad.  Look to the Lord and ask for His strength. Look to Him all the time."

Happy Autumn and God's blessings as you travel through each season in life.

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Having Faith from "His Kindness Year Round"

No matter how the circumstances in life may appear or feel, have faith in the supernatural miracles our God continues to perform every day. 

1 Corinthians 2:5 “You do not have faith in Christ because of the wisdom in men.  You have faith in Christ because of the power of God.”

We may go through days or periods of time in which life seems bleak.  We may not “feel” God’s presence or see His mighty work in action.  But life on earth isn’t always as it seems.  We may not feel or think God is working His plan for us, but that is our human souls (thoughts, feelings, emotions) at work.  And while our souls may be working overtime in the dismal swamp, God is working also in His splendid manner.  His work is supernatural – far, far above anything we, in the natural, can accomplish. 

2 Corinthians 5:7 “Our life is lived by faith.  We do not live by what we see in front of us.”

Am I belittling the trials we go through?  Absolutely not.  Recognize God can change your life, your circumstances, your world, in a twinkling of an eye.  Sometimes when God moves, He moves SWIFT.  He doesn’t only turn circumstances around for others.  He does it for you.  He does it for me.  Whatever we see going on in our lives and around us, as a sister reminds me, we shall prevail!

James 1:6 “You must have faith as you ask Him.  You must not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like a wave which is pushed around by the sea.”

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

(As I’ve shared with some, this morning as I was heating my tea, I thought of a song I haven’t heard in years and years.  I continue to sing it over and over to myself.) 

The opening of the lyrics to “Heaven Came Down”:

“Heaven came down and glory filled my soul. 

When at the cross, my Savior made me whole.

My sins were washed away,

And my night turned to day

When Heaven came down and glory filled my soul.”

How great is our God . . . . from "His Kindness Year Round"

September is here (!) and I want to share a bit of the wondrous ways of our Lord from the past couple of months.

Almost two years ago, God clearly made it known to me that I wasn’t placed on His earth to please anyone except Him.  After spending most of my life practicing the role of “people pleaser”, I found this rewarding revelation quite a change.  You may not think this would have been a challenge, but trading a life time of unhealthy habits for His freedom is a daily, and sometimes hourly, accomplishment.

It was simple to follow God’s direction with certain people and particular situations.  Yet with others, stepping across that comfort zone wasn’t easy. 

Within this two year time frame, God continues to repeat His original will.  I took His voice as reminders and nothing further. However, I realized I had not surrendered completely.  With a few people or situations, I was continuing to try to please, seek approval and meet expectations.  I had not followed His command to its fullest; to its completion.  It’s OK if I disappoint man on earth while pursuing the will of God, as long as I’m not disappointing the only One Who matters. 

I am diligently pressing on, living God’s will.  I am understanding what it means to seek the Lord every day for His direction for that day.  I am a work in progress.  It’s been a strong component in drawing me closer to Him.

Whenever you’re seeking the wisdom of a family member or friend or co-worker, it’s much easier to discern the answer if you speak the same language, hear and understand what the person is saying, and really listen.  With the Lord, it’s required my commitment to talk with Him more, listen to Him more, and read His written Word.  I am a work in progress.  Sometimes following His will has required doing what I need to do rather than what I want to do.

Ephesians 6:18 “You must pray at all times as the Holy Spirit leads you to pray.  Pray for the things that are needed.  You must watch and keep on praying. Remember to pray for all Christians.” 

God is always true.  His direction is always the only direction.  Everything he asks you to do, He will give you the ability to get His will completed.  Always.  He never fails. 

1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm.  Let nothing move you.  Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Stay open to God’s direction.  Listen and fulfill entirely.  His will is not multiple choice, but absolute submission.  I surrender all.  And I am a work in progress.

“1 John 2:17 “The world and all its desires will pass away.  But the man who obeys God and does what He wants done will live forever.” 

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

A Reminder from "His Kindness Year Round".

Life on earth is short.

We know that fact.  We speak it.  We remind ourselves and others not to take life for granted.  However, do we sincerely believe it?  Do we live by it?  Do we understand life on earth is indeed a blink, and eternity is forever? 

My mind doesn't even comprehend 'forever'.  Everything we know has a beginning and an end.  But not eternity.

John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Do we fully realize that life on earth is a journey and the destination is our heavenly home, and not any accomplishment or physical place on earth?

Jude 1:21 “Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.”

Sometimes an event will take place to remind us of the frailty of life.  But do we actually believe it and live it?

James 1:12 “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Treasure life.  Enjoy the journey.

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Happy August from "His Kindness Year Round"!

It’s amazing how quickly this year is progressing.  September is just a week away, with fall soon to be in the air.  Shortly to follow will be the changing of the leaves and the weather, and then the holidays . . . and a new year upon us again.  I trust you have been doing well and enjoying the summer of 2012.

I had the privilege of listening to an inspirational Christian speaker a few weeks ago.  We use to be co-workers, and I’ve known him for a couple of decades, but haven’t seen him in over ten years.  He has an amazing testimony of how God has worked, and continues to work, in his life daily. 

Sometimes you’ll meet someone and know that he or she will make a positive difference in the lives of others.  That certainly describes this gentleman, who loves God and gives Him all the glory for the accomplishments God has worked through this believer. It was rewarding for me to hear him speak of principles God has placed upon my heart in recent months. 

Colossians 2:6-7 “As you have put your trust in Jesus Christ the Lord to save you from the punishment of sin, now let Him lead you in every step. Have your roots planted deep in Christ. Grow in Him.  Get your strength from Him. Let Him make you strong in the faith as you have been taught. Your life should be full of thanks to Him.”

Isn’t it comforting to look at your life and notice how God faithfully takes care of His children?  Don’t you see situations in which you recognize God was/is always at your side, never leaving you during a trial, but carrying you through it?  Sometimes the place God brings us to on the other side of the hurdle is out of our comfort zone, but that is OK because He is still there!  He doesn’t bring us through and drop us off and leave.  Don’t give up, child of God, because He is still there. 

Galatians 3:26 “You are now children of God because you have put your trust in Jesus Christ.”

Know who you are in the Savior and allow your faith in God to devour any fears you may have. Fear is a sharp tool of the enemy which he does use to destroy us. Don’t stop during a storm from fatigue or fear.  Our Savior is always there to carry us through.  Hold onto Him; rest in Him; value the journey.

1 Peter 1:8 “You have never seen Him but you love Him. You cannot see Him now but you are putting your trust in Him.  And you have joy so great that words cannot tell about it.”

I look back at this gentleman I mentioned earlier.  IF he had stopped during any of the storms and gotten off track, he may not be the witness for Jesus that he is today. IF he didn’t desire to know God or know who he is in God; or want to walk daily with our Savior and grow through Him; or step across his own comfort zone and take a step of faith; or follow any fear instead of his faith . . . . . where would he be today . . . . . where would I be today . . . . where would you be today . . . . questions we don’t need to spend time or energy pondering because the past is over, and we are now walking with our Savior.  We have chosen to be His child, exercising our faith on a daily basis.  Oh, tis so sweet to trust in Jesus . . . . . !

John 1:12 “He gave the right and the power to become children of God to those who received Him.  He gave this to those who put their trust in His name.”

There are many who aren’t in step with God.  Continue to pray for open hearts.  Be a witness to those who are lost.  Some desires as His children are to grow stronger in Him, to grow more faithful and trusting in Him, and to bring lost sheep to Him.  We celebrate and praise Him when we gain another brother or sister in Christ.  We praise Him in the victories of blessings.  Let's also praise Him through any tough patch we may encounter, showing Him our gratitude and trust.   

Hebrews 11:6 “A man cannot please God unless he has faith.  Anyone who comes to God must believe that He is. That one must also know that God gives what is promised to the one who keeps on looking for Him.”

To God be the glory, great things He has done!

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

When God says "Move", from His Kindness Year Round . .

Blessings to you today . . . . .

Recently, God and I have discussed my complete trust and faith in Him, fully, entirely, in all things; about letting go and letting God; exercising the faith to believe it's not my struggle, as He is victorious for me.  The Almighty is taking care of me, and His care is the absolute best.  His care is supernatural, which doesn’t compare with our care in the natural.  I thank Him deeply.

Often when we think of movement, we think of literal, physical, “one-foot-in-front-of-the-other” movement.  I’ve been dealing with that sort of movement in a huge way – the consuming list of “to-do’s” – the earthly things to be done.  God has the plan.  I’m allowing Him to lead and He is getting the tasks done, in His timing (not mine!). 

I was having a random conversation with a brother in Christ I 'happened' to run into (no coincidence, remember . . . . . ).  Not knowing anything of the activities in my life, he shared from the Holy Spirit, “Sometimes God wants us to move.  When water stays still, stays stagnate, it is not healthy; it declines, weakens.  When water moves, there is refreshment and growth and rejuvenation.  Sometimes God says MOVE.”

Move, sure, absolutely, that I am doing!  One thing I can say is there is physical movement – the physical movement of things being completed.  In His timing.  At His direction, but not without the consistent temptations from satan.  I am, (sometimes still with resistance), letting go and trusting God for completion.  In His timing.  (Notice this seems to be a repetitive phrase?)  Without my trust and complete faith in Him, I would be stagnating the forward movement.  There is physical movement!

Then the revelation to me erupted.   The real movement isn’t the earthly responsibilities being completed – all the ‘stuff’ I’ve been learning to trust and have faith in my Heavenly Father to accomplish for me.  It isn't the doing, finishing, marking off the list of "to-do's".

I would never experience the real movement without first showing trust and faith in the current physical movement; without the trust of God taking care of the massive “to-do’s”.   I'm a work in progress; the trust and faith is now present for the physical movement -- but that's not the real movement! 

The real movement is much more important.  The real movement is my continued spiritual movement towards Him; the movement in me for Him, in my relationship with Him, in His Kingdom. 

With my faith and trust, God is taking care of the physical forward flow, but the spiritual movement – the real movement -- is up to me.  I’ve been concentrating so heavily on the physical without realizing it’s the spiritual movement God wants for me now.  He has the physical movement covered in His plan.  The past few years have brought me the most phenomenal spiritual movement with God!  That movement is to continue for refreshment and rejuvenation.  My intimacy with the Holy Father will stay refreshed in Him, through Him, by Him!

Are temptations and attacks from the enemy still going to occur – you betcha.  As satan throws his lies and deceptions and guilt, my God given confidence strengthens because I am His child.  Only through the cross am I worthy. 

I continue to cast all cares on Him.  Continue to speak the desires of my heart and what I want to be true.  I continue to line up my thoughts and words in The Word.  Believe.  Stay faithful to Him.  Trust. 

I do have “Victory in Jesus” because “Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus”!

1 Peter 5:7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.”

Romans 8:25 "But if we hope for what we do not have yet, we wait for it patiently."

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Our dear, sweet Jesus . . . . from "His Kindness Year Round" . . .

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

More words from God through an old hymn . . . . .

Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus

“’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

Chorus:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er;
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Chorus

Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.

Chorus

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.”

Thus saith the Lord!  His Word is truth because He said it.   Speak aloud His truths.  REST in His promises, which includes His promise to receive all the cares you cast on Him . . . .  because He does care for you.  He loves you.   

Rejoice that you trust Him because He truly will be with you to the end.  And then we’ll see Him face to face . . . . what a glorious day!

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

      Robin 

Remembering "Victory in Jesus" . . . . . from "His Kindness Year Round"!

Psalm 118:24 “Today is the day the Lord has made; let’s rejoice and be glad in it.”

As God continues to speak, reveal, transform and direct the path, He has placed several old hymns upon my heart within in the past few weeks.  Today I have repeatedly found myself humming this song . . . . perhaps you may remember the old hymn . . .

Victory in Jesus

I heard an old, old story,
How a Savior came from glory,
How He gave His life on Calvary

To save a wretch like me;
I heard about His groaning,
Of His precious blood's atoning,
Then I repented of my sins
And won the victory.

Chorus:
O victory in Jesus,
My Savior, forever.
He sought me and bought me
With His redeeming blood.
He loved me ere I knew Him
And all my love is due Him,
He plunged me to victory,
Beneath the cleansing flood. 

I heard about His healing
Of His cleansing pow'r revealing.
How He made the lame to walk again
And caused the blind to see;
And then I cried, "Dear Jesus,
Come and heal my broken spirit,"
And somehow Jesus came and bro't
To me the victory.

Chorus

I heard about a mansion
He has built for me in glory.
And I heard about the streets of gold
Beyond the crystal sea;
About the angels singing,
And the old redemption story,
And some sweet day I'll sing up there
The song of victory.

May you recognize and accept the Victory the Lamb of God sacrificed His life and gave to us.

1 Peter 5:7 “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.”

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin

Our Heavenly Father, our God Who is love, from "His Kindness Year Round" . . .

I trust the celebration of our nation’s birthday was a good one for you. 

Want to take a moment to share a few thoughts from the week . . . .

We know life brings us so many wondrous treasures and blessings.  We also have trials and speed bumps along the way. 

Ephesians 6:16 “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” 

God has already given us the victory (thank you, sister, for the reminder).  He gave us everything we need over 2,000 years ago when He sacrificed The Lamb for us. 

1 John 4:4 “In Christ, you are a world overcomer!”

Accept God’s provision.  Believe He’s already supplied all your needs. Trust and receive those gifts.  Praise Him!  

Mark 11:22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered.

He has completely given through His grace.  We want to fellowship and pray and study and absorb Him because we love Him, not to try to earn His love.  There is nothing we could ever do to earn or deserve His great love for us.  God loves us unconditionally in spite of who we are and who we are not.  Let Him help you.  Give your cares to Him. 

Praise and focus on Him for the blessings.  Even so, focus on Him and His Word during a difficulty.  Read through His teachings as to what He has already done for you.  Ask for revelation or understanding if you need.  We don’t need to beg for His help.  He’s always at your side, so stay tuned into Him 24/7.  (You don’t need to ask Him not to leave you because He’s already promised He will not leave nor forsake you!)

John 15:5 “Without me, you can do nothing.”

This old hymn has been on my heart this week.  I am to meditate on the three words . . . . “I surrender all” . . . . .

“All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give;

I will ever love and trust Him, In His presence daily live.

I surrender all, I surrender all. 

All to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all.”

Joshua 24:15 “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin