Pity Party - Me?

A beautiful, crisp Good Morning to you!!

How are you?

As I write this, it is a cool, crisp, fall Saturday morning in Massachusetts.  The beautifully colored leaves are now almost all fallen off the trees, but the berry-bearing bushes are in full bloom.

This morning as I took my moment’s breathe of reprieve (http://wordwithmindy.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-moments-breathe-of-reprieve_23.html ) and quiet time, my eyes settled on a verse that seemed to resonate in my heart and mind.  I thought about how on some days my schedule is so hectic I forget to remember to see the positive in the negative.  (Did you get that?) How sometimes I let my “issues” cloud my gratitude for the (many) good things I have in life (oh yes, I can find many good things I should be thankful for) and how I even allow myself to wallow in a pity party at times (yikes!).  Yes, I do that sometimes – do you?

Well, as I read these words, I begin to think of some people in my life whom I feel would benefit from reading them.  And, being a writer, lots of words start jumping up and down in my mind, yelling out and vying for a chance to be chosen for today’s helpful wordwithmindy blog entry.  However, as I read the verses again, I begin to get this warm feeling spreading through my stomach and chest, and into my heart.  And then I realize I need to stop a moment; I need to look again at these words.  Uh-oh – yep, you got it –maybe, just maybe I need to apply these words to my own life this morning. 

These are the words:

You’re Blessed

5 ^1-2 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said:

³ “You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.

⁴ “You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

⁵ “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are—no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.

⁶ “You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.

⁷ “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you find yourselves cared for.

⁸ “You’re blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.

⁹ “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.

¹⁰ “You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom.

^11-12 “Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don’t like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.  Matthew 5 The Message (MSG)  

Wow - these wonderful words tell me that  

·       when I’m exhausted and have nothing left to give, that is when I am most open and accepting of God’s care of me and His guidance.  Yes, in reflection, I see that this is true.

·       That when I have lost my heart’s desire or a most dear loved one, then that is when I am able to accept God’s embracing and enveloping love of me. When I am too wrapped up and focused on the one(s) I love, I am too full and distracted to receive God’s love (God – who loves me more than anyone else ever would or could.)

·       That when I am ready to accept who I am, with humility, with all my little quirks, flaws and all, that is when I receive peace in having all the important things in life that cannot be bought with a price.

·       That when I deeply desire to know more about God and things of God, then I will be more fulfilled and satisfied than with anything else.

·       That when I am mindful and caring and merciful to others, that is when I will find caring and mercy given to me.

·       That when I set my sights and heart on the right things, good and caring things, pure things, things that truly matter, not just to me, but to others around me, then my eyes will be open to all the good, right, pure and wonderful things in my life and in the world.  And it is then that I will see God!

·       That when I work to create peace and harmony in those around me, instead of gossip, rumor spreading, or conflict, then I will find my place in God’s plan and kingdom.  Meaning I will find peace and joy and contentment in my own heart. And make God’s heart happy as I embrace being one of HIS.

·       And that when I take a stand for God, when I take part in worship of God, when I share His Word and love with others, and as a result am made fun of, ridiculed, or even lose out on something I wanted - that’s ok.  I can surround myself with Christian people, keep seeking God, sharing things of God, and become more deeply centered in God’s kingdom and His care of me.  Some others may not like it, but God does – and He will reward me for it!!! After all – all the great prophets and teachers of the Word have all gone through some persecution. And they held fast.

We all go through persecution of some kind or another. 

We just need to choose if it’s for a bad or non-productive cause, or a good and life-changing one.

So, this morning, in contemplation of these verses and words – I feel a little silly and misguided in ever having a pity party.  Yes, I get that there will be times when I feel overwhelmed and wonder “why me?” But that’s ok.  Because it is those times that I will turn to God and ask Him why?

I will have conversation with God.

And He likes that

Because that is when we have relationship – a 2-way relationship

Instead of me by myself or God by Himself.

Yes, I see that it takes conversation between us – me and God.  And my heart being open and willing to hear His leading, and not my own stubborn will.  Sometimes that means being empty, broken, harassed, lost, or torn.  And if that’s when I find God most intimately and allow myself to feel His presence and love the most – then that’s ok. 

Because therein lies my peace, my purpose, my life.

 

May you each find peace, purpose and an overflowing fountain of life

in your day to day living.

And may you feel totally blessed indeed!

Love forever,

Mindy

Don't Fake It!

Greetings and good Sunday to you!!

There’s something to be said for a writing that gives you great inspiration first thing in the morning.  During that first 30 minutes or so, walking a little fuzzy-eyed and foggy-brained into the kitchen, feeding the beloved canine or kitty, and settling in to email with the first cup of coffee sounds like the typical weekend wake-up-in-the-morning routine.

However, when something substantial, something with a little meat on its bones – sustenance for the day perhaps, pops up first thing – it’s refreshing! And eye opening J

Here’s that substantial, meat-on-the-bone sustenance I read this morning.  Not only inspirational, happy words to start the day, but peaceful food for thought.  Sustenance to fill our bodies, minds and hearts, to become better people, helping make a difference in creating a better world to leave for our children.

Blessings and love to you!

Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.

Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.

Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.

Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”

Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.

Romans 12:10-21 The Message (MSG)

What can you do differently today to share in this sustenance?

<3 Mindy

Fine Silk Upon My Skin 2

How beautiful are your Words to me

Like fine silk upon my skin

When reading from your love to me -

While wearied and courage thin.

Though constant seem my trials and fears

Insecurities abound

Loving peace and tranquility

In Your presence I have found.

Oh Lord, how I love Your beautiful, wonderful Words of Love!

Wow, once again I am amazed at the smile on my face and the peace in my heart after reading a few short verses in God's holy Word. 

It seems no matter how discouraged or apprehensive I am feeling - with anything - I can go to the Book of Love for some encouragement and always come away feeling better.

Today I opened God’s Words of Love to Me, to the book of Romans. Chapter 12, especially verses 10-21 began to speak to me and caress my heart. 

Here I learned (once again) that my troubles and fears – my issues – are not exclusive to me.  God has already written advice to counteract them, so many must be those who have these same issues, if God feels He should address them.  Here, I see that I am not alone in my issues - yay!  (He says - persevering in tribulation: weep with those who weep…, so I cannot be the only one.)  And if I am dismayed or hurt with a “friend’s” behavior, here God has written how to handle that.   Feed them, give them drink, for in doing so, that will heap burning coals on his (or her) head!  I wonder; is this where the phrase “kill them with kindness” comes from? 

So, I am comforted in knowing that God did not single me out to weep and to have trials and tribulations – we all must have to endure those things, or else why would He address them specifically?  And furthermore, He says to share these times with others, which means none of us should be alone in our trials, that we should all help one another.  I need not feel bad, weak or insecure in asking for help or support.  That is comforting indeed.  

And don’t forget, He says to rejoice with those rejoicing also!!  So that means there are plenty of happy times to share too!  Yes!

And chapter 12 verse 19 – “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGENCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord.”

Yay! Yay! Yay!   I don’t have to worry about getting back or even with any one of those people who have hurt me or my loved ones – right here it tells me that God will take care of that!  That leaves me free to be a nice person.  I like being a nice person so much better than holding onto bitterness or revenge in my heart!  Don’t you? 

Phhhhhhewwwwww!!!  I am so relieved!!!  God’s got my back.  (smile, smile)

And He has yours too - if you will ask Him :)

I hope you can get out and enjoy some of the beautiful fall weather -

 it's perfect to enjoy beautiful words of love in <3 

         Blessings and joy,

Mindy       

Crazy Decisions - Part IV

Hi Y’all, and happy lovely fall season to you!! 

Wow, here in New England everything outside is vamped up in a glorious display of vibrant pinks, oranges, browns, golds, reds, yellows, and a little green still hanging on.  The drive along the interstate is spectacular in some places, definitely worthy of venturing out.

          I know – It has been a while since my last post – I’m sorry.  Life got in the way: extended travel, house clean-out and selling, family visiting, etc.  I have missed talking with you thoughJ! 

So now it’s time to pick back up where we left off:

Crazy Decisions 

And how to accept and let go

And find Sweet Peace in your decision making.

          Last post we continued with our Crazy Decision series and talked about those decisions in our lives which are weighing and bogging us down, but that we cannot or should not control, and how/when to log them on our NO! I Cannot Control list.  Then the next step was to Accept our decision that we cannot do anything to change or affect that issue, and then let it go without taking back the worry. 

But letting go and not worrying – that’s pretty hard to do, right?

Well…not if we know how to let it go – the right way!

Here’s how:

   IV.        Trust God  (Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

a.     Believe that God already has a plan for your life, with your best interest in mind.

Yes, He does!!

Consider, meditate upon, and commit to your heart the words and Scriptures in Part I of this study:  http://wordwithmindy.blogspot.com/2013/09/crazy-decisions-break-out-part-i.html

{Genesis 1-2; Jeremiah 1:5; Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 139:16; Jeremiah 31:3; Psalm 36:5-6 (The Message); Psalm 36:5-6 (NIV); Psalm 103:6-18 (The Message)}

   God created each one of us individually, knew each one of us intimately before we were even formed in our mother’s womb, and had a plan already in mind for our lives before even one of our days came to be.

“Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you:  A prophet to the nations— that’s what I had in mind for you.” Jeremiah 1:5

b.     Believe that God will implement His plan in your life if and when you ask Him to.

   The important part here to remember and act upon is the “when you ask Him to” part. You know, all the best made plans in the world don’t mean anything until we actively put them into motion – right?  And if we would like someone to do something for us, how do they know unless we ask them – right? So why not let God know you are ready, and actively put His plan in motion in your life by simply asking Him to? “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.” Jeremiah 29:12-14 (NIV)  And then believe:

c.     Believe that God will handle all of those things you let go of when you ask Him to.

   Again, the important part here to remember and act upon is the “when you ask Him to” part.  “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord.  

   And then believe:

d.     Believe and trust in your heart that God has your back when you allow Him to.

     But the Lord is with me like a dread champion; therefore my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. Jeremiah 20:11

    For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.  Isaiah 41:13 (NIV)

   Yes, believe and trust in your heart.  If you find it hard to believe or trust in God and His providence for your life, then simply ask Him to help you believe.  Ask Him to give you faith – faith in Him, and in His plan for your life.

My simple story of asking for faith:

 http://wordwithmindy.blogspot.com/2013/08/sweet-faith.html

   And also realize that when you ask God to do something for you, you have to step back, let go, and allow Him to do it. I know this is pretty tough sometimes, especially for us control freak type people J. 

          But, to help understand this concept, imagine if you asked a friend to wash your car for you, but you then proceed to take your car through a car wash yourself because you are afraid the friend might not do it.  That would make it kind of difficult for your friend to do what you asked, wouldn’t it? 

          Same thing with God.  If you ask Him to do something for you, believe that He will and let go and let Him get it done.  He may not do it the same way you would have, but His way will be the right way.  Because He is God.  And that’s simply how He does things. 

“This is what I want you to do:

Ask the Father for whatever is in keeping with the things I’ve revealed to you.

Ask in my name, according to my will, and he’ll most certainly give it to you.

Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks!

John 16:23-24 (The Message)

 

Dear readers – what I want to say here is you are God’s Beloved.  He made you and created you with absolute and forever love.

The Lord appeared to him from afar, saying, “I have loved you with an everlasting love;

Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness. Jeremiah 31:3

No, He doesn’t promise that everything in life will be a bed of roses when we trust in Him, but He does promise that He will help us, if only we ask.  Life rarely goes the way we want it, but when we put our faith and trust in God to lead us and to take care of the details, when the hard times come, we are not alone and things work out for the best.

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God,

to those who are called according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28 (NASB)

And when we have tough decisions to make, God is there to help us decide.

 

So, really, there is no great secret to having wonderful peace in our decision making, and it is simple to relax and not stress over these decisions when we take them to God and ask Him to help us. 

In simple terms, this means prayer.

In my terms, on a daily basis, it simply means talking to God,

having conversation with Him, just like He is sitting here with me.

 

I usually do this while I am breaking down the decisions and making my action plans.  I tell Him what the issue is, what I think about it, and what I would like to see happen.  But because I know that in His infinite knowledge and sight, He can see the whole big picture, I ask Him to direct me.  I ask Him to help me feel comfortable and at peace with what the right thing to do is.  And then I open my heart and mind to hear or feel that peace.  And I continue to talk to Him about each decision until it is resolved.

When the issue is deeper, more emotional or critical, then it simply means seeking God with all my heart, in quiet desperation, or maybe even with weeping and wailing, telling Him my worry and imploring Him to help. 

And when I have poured my entire heart out to Him, laying it all out there –

the worry, the anger, the hurt – whatever emotions are in my heart,

then I thank Him for listening and ask Him to show me what to do.  I ask Him for His perfect peace in knowing how to resolve the issue, even if that means letting go and letting Him take care of it. And again, I “listen” and “feel” for His peace in the direction I should go.

Sometimes my answer is in a Scripture I read that speaks to my issue.  Or in something someone says to me.  Or sometimes a thought goes through my mind and I get a sure feeling inside that God has spoken that thought to me.  And I know that God has answered my prayer.  I do what God has asked me to do and then I can let it go. No more worrying.  I am at peace.

 

Wow, thank you to each of you for hanging in there and wandering this path of decision making skills with me!  For me, it has actually been a little walk down memory lane as I have recalled my own journey in learning to have faith in God’s providence for my life.  Some pretty tough decisions, but some amazingly good stuff too J

Until next time, may you delight in the new season’s colorful freshness and experience a new level of peace in your conversations with our spectacular God.

 

Love and blessings,

Mindy