Wednesday Worship: Waging War

There are days when we are more aware of this than others. Some days, life seems like one big bowl of cherries. On other days, it might seem like a big bowl of pits.

We must never forget that we're in a battle, fighting little individual wars. The greater war is already won, but fight we must, nonetheless. Every day. For our salvation. For our sanity. For our health. For our prosperity. For our loved ones. For our character. For our dreams and visions. For our faith.

The Bible says, in Ephesians 6:12-13:

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

And lest you doubt from time to time whether this war is winnable, as I said, it's already been won!

Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jahaziel son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite and descendant of Asaph, as he stood in the assembly. He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.20 Chron 20:14-15

In the meantime, until He returns, like CeCe Winans sings, "We're Waging War".

Peace & Blessings,
Patricia

Wednesday Worship: Bring The Rain

I heard a great worship song in church, one that stayed with me for days. I found the artist but it's not available online yet. It's called Faithful God, and it was written by Zach Neese, performed by the Gateway Worship team.

I so wanted to share that, but since I can't, I found another song that speaks to God's faithfulness, in every type of circumstance, making me desire more of him. MercyMe's Bring The Rain:

Peace & Blessings,
Patricia

What Are You Afraid Of?

Fear.

It's something that every human being is faced with on some level at some point in time.

The thing is I believe we learn to be fearful.

Isn't that sad?

Because babies don't seem to know fear. In fact, I have a four-year-old who still hasn't figured out, after more than a few bumps on the head and trips to the emergency room, that he should be afraid.

He is truly a child who believes that if his mind can conceive it, then he can achieve it, to paraphrase a popular saying.

Scripture tells us there is good fear and bad fear.

Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever! -- Deut 5:29

That's the good fear, a reverence and honor for God.

But God cautions us, because He knows how damaging fear can be. He reminds us where fear comes from, and what He desires for us instead.

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. -- 1 Tim 2:7

Then, He tells us the one thing that can overcome fear. Love.

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. -- 1 John 4:18

Have you asked yourself this question recently, "What am I afraid of?" It's a really good place to start if you never quite seem to get any closer than you are to realizing your dreams.

If you find that you have fears that are blocking and hindering you, seek love. Love for God. Love for yourself. Love for the talents and gifts God has planted in you. Love for the dreams He has given you. Love for the process, the journey necessary to get to your desired goal.

I just came across a very cool site launched to promote what looks like will be a very cool book, fear.less, "stories about conquering fear". Check it out here. The book is scheduled for release in July 2009.

Peace & Blessings,
Patricia

Wednesday Worship: Let The Word Do The Work

I'm a HUGE fan of director/composer/producer Donald Lawrence. Going waaaaay back. His songs are of the inspirational/encouragement mode. You can speak life to yourself, your circumstances, your family, your job, whatever by just repeating the words to his songs.

I can't wait until there are some live videos for his latest project, The Law of Confession, Pt 1

In the meantime, just listen. I think this might be my favorite song from the new album, Let the Word Do The Work:

Peace & Blessings,
Patricia

Just 3 Things Per Day

I've been thinking about how I compartmentalize my life, which results in me focusing on one or two things for a period of time while other things slip. Then, I focus on a couple of the slipped items, and the original areas start to wane.

When I think about taking care of myself, there are just 3 things I'd like to do every single day.

3 Things I’d Like to Do Each Day For My Well-Being:

• Fuel my mind, body, and soul by beginning each day with Scripture and exercise
  
• Care for my health by making good food choices and keeping hydrated
  
• Pursue my dreams by writing

Of course, I have to work, and I will always attend to the needs of my family. These things about caring for me, something I can't always say I've done. But I'm getting better at it.

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Are you over 40 and trying to lose weight and get fit? Join the Get Fit After 40 Summer Challenge. I have, but only because I'd set the same goals for myself before I heard about the challenge. This way it's fun, because I'm not alone, and seeing how others do will keep me inspired. Kinda like a virtual Biggest Loser.

Peace & Blessings,
Patricia