Friday, March 1, 2013

Open Spaces



Welcome to the newest addition of the Christian Writers Blog Chain. Each month a consensus determines the topic for the month. This month we chose an Open topic, not that unusual but an opportunity to express our individual thoughts. I usually don't chose the first day of the month, as a rule, but I felt brave to kick start this topic, set the tone, if you will.

As I pondered all the possibilities for this month, many ideas came to mind. Should I continue with the current series? Should I start another series? Should I share my thoughts on my current dilemma? Should I just skip the month?

If you have enjoyed our monthly posts, you've seen a decline in the participation. I know things happen in our lives. We get side tracked, become over burdened with current projects, become discouraged by events, or sometimes need a break from writing.

As Christians, we sometimes don't see the bigger picture of the spiritual warfare all around us. Every time we take our eyes off Jesus, we sink. Every time we make an excuse for not doing our job, (ie writing), we stumble. Every time we don't follow through with a commitment, we lose a bit of ground.

I want to express a heartfelt thanks to those who continue through all circumstances. I know several writers on this chain are very busy people who contribute to many sites, Lynn Mosher is one and so is Carol Peterson. Two ladies, excuse me, sisters I admire. I understand that things run their course, and perhaps this is one of those things, I hope we can keep going. The Bible teaches that we don't always know the outcome of our encounters, but we can trust that God will bless us as we step out in faith.

So What is the future of this ministry? I know I will continue to sign up each month and participate as much as I can. We are currently mobile and don't have access to the internet as often as I would like, but I don't let that stop me. I won't give the Evil One a moment's pleasure of trying to derail this child of God. The Lord does supply all my needs as I need them. I am not worried or afraid.

Beginning this month I have joined up with other writers to support them. We will host guest writers on each of our blogs to highlight their work. Topics and styles will vary, but I know you will enjoy their work. So please look for the new page link at the top of this page in just a few days—the road ahead is glorious!

" So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and courageous  Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless" 1 Corinthians 15:58

In the words of Pablo Cruise “Keep your heart open – 'cause love will find a way”

Peace and Blessings!!

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Living with Purpose – Let God Love You





I recently heard a report of the stress people feel in our modern times. Seems the younger generation is feeling the greater amount of stress these days, while the older generation does not feel the pressure as much. The report went on the say what they discovered is the younger generation is feeling the pressure to perform in a limited job market, while being heavy laden with school loans. The “Baby-Boomers” as they are known, the retiring generation, still feels the pinch of the economy, but are not as burdened with future expectations.

While I was planning a wrap up to this series, this verse kept coming to mind. “Let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:27). Upon further meditation, I sensed the notion of letting God love me. Funny, I get so concerned with loving God and seeking him, that I have lost sight of the bigger meaning – God wants me to relax and let him care for me.

The scriptures state this over and over. These are just a few;

“Be still and know I am God”

“On the seventh day God rested and declared it Holy”

“Give all your cares to the Lord, because he cares for you”

“Do not be concerned with your day to day living needs of food and drink”

“One moment of worry can not change a thing”

When I meditate on the Sabbath Day, the purpose that God designed for that day becomes clearer. The book of Leviticus, gives the instructions for the Sabbath Day was more than a day of rest, it was a day to let God love you.

On the seventh day, creation of the world and everything in it was complete. God was not tired, He rejoiced. He declared it Holy because it was a day made for us to delight in his love. A day not to be concerned with anything else. No harvest, No work, No preparing - just enjoying his love.

What a beautiful concept. I praise God that he has deepened my understanding of his love. It's been my pleasure to share this simple understanding with all of you.

May His peace be with you all as you delight in His love!!!!

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” John 14:27