The Answer for the World

Right now, millions of people are longing to return to their normal, daily lives. The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live, the way some people think, and the way others act. From the essential workers on the frontlines to the people who are staying safe at home, each one of us likely has a plethora of questions swirling about our minds. There are those who ask, “How can I adequately protect myself and my family?” Others want to know what they can do about their loss of income during the lockdown. Sorrowfully, thousands of families are wondering why their loved ones had to die. In such unprecedented times, we may not have all of the answers, but there is One on whom we can rely. In a world filled with questions, Jesus Christ is the answer for the world.

COVID-19 has affected the world in a way we have never seen before, causing many people to ask, “Where is God in all of this?” They continuously complain about everything from social distancing to travel restrictions, and some individuals feel as if God has abandoned them in the midst of their suffering. Some people are depressed and many have become fearful, even to the point of refraining from ordinary day-to-day activities. Others have embraced new ways of doing everyday things, opting for grocery delivery services and curbside pickup at retail stores. There are even families who have reinstated family dinners, taking advantage of extra quality time together. While some people have taken lemons and made lemonade, other people have a hard time walking into a business or doctor’s office seeing people wearing masks and other personal protective equipment, as it causes their anxiety levels to escalate to the point where their body involuntarily employs the physiological response known as fight or flight. Even now, as a large percentage of the world is under quarantine or stay-at-home orders, many people seem angry, discouraged, and confused. They do not know what to make of such widespread calamity going on around them.

For centuries, people have wondered why God would allow bad things to happen to good people. Ultimately, though, bad things have only happened to one good person in the history of humanity. Jesus Christ is the only good person to walk on the face of this earth. Jesus said, “‘There is only One who is good’” (Matt. 19:17 NLT). God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, as a perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins. Romans 3:23 (NLT) says, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Notice this verse does not say everyone, except for a few good people. It says everyone has sinned. Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NLT) says, “Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins.” By God’s standards, I am not a good person. You are not a good person. No one on earth is an inherently good person. Only through the grace of God can we become good enough to enter into God’s Kingdom.

We cannot rely on our own merit to achieve salvation. Good deeds cannot save you. Having a lucrative career cannot save you. Loving your friends or family cannot save you. Going to church cannot save you. Jesus said, “‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me’” (John 14:6 NLT). Jesus Christ is the only way to receive the gift of eternal salvation. You do not have to live in a state of confusion any longer. Do not let the problems of the world overwhelm you. Isaiah 50:10 (NLT) says, “If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God.” Jesus Christ is the Light of the world, and He wants to give you the “light that leads to life,” if you will put your trust in Him as your Lord and Savior (John 8:12 NLT).

Perhaps you are going through a very dark time in your life, whether due to the pandemic or other causes. You may feel as if the walls are closing in around you, and you cannot see a way to escape from your dire circumstances. Although I do not know what you are going through, I can tell you that I have experienced my own share of trials. In the fall of 2018, the doctors at Mayo Clinic showed me disheartening MRI results, which showed a possible malignant tumor the width of my entire leg. They were discussing amputation, oncology, and other terms that no one ever wants to hear. Through this physical battle, I sat on my sofa at home, with the exception of visits to the hospital, for three months straight. During this time of sitting still, I was writhing in pain so severe that it elevated my heart rate and blood pressure to life-threatening levels. My dad and I were greatly discouraged, but we put our trust in Jesus Christ. Yes, we had many questions, but we could not dwell on the uncertainties of life. We had to focus our attention on the One who gives life. I thank God every day for restoring my health. He deserves all of the glory, honor, and praise.

I want to encourage you today. You may not understand why you have to climb over mile-high mountains or forge raging rivers, but I can tell you that God will help you through this pandemic and every other difficult situation that you face. Jesus said, “‘I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world’” (John 16:33 NLT). No matter what, remember that Jesus Christ will walk beside you, guiding you through each rough patch. Jesus Christ loves you more than you could ever imagine. Do not lose heart; He has already overcome every problem you will ever encounter. Instead of dwelling on the many questions of life, strive to “set your minds on things above” (Col. 3:2 NIV). When you focus on Jesus Christ, the tribulations in this world will fade out of view.

Although I cannot answer the question as to when the coronavirus pandemic will end, I can tell you where to find the answers to all of the questions plaguing your mind. Psalm 119:105 (NIV) says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” When we read God’s Word, He will show us the answers that we need. God wants to impart His wisdom, if we take time to listen to His still, small voice. May we all have a discerning heart and a listening ear when it comes to following the Lord’s leading, not just about the COVID-19 crisis, but in every aspect of our lives.

No organization, government, or religion has all of the answers. Jesus Christ is our only eternal hope. He is the Son of the only living God. Unlike this ever-changing world, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). He is not only the answer for today’s problems, but He is the answer for all of our tomorrows. Put your trust in Jesus Christ today!

Beyond Imagination

Move That Mountain!

Are You Confused?

A Mom's Love

Climbing a Tree

The Giant in Your Life

What Am I Doing Here?

The Gift of Life

Let Go of Your Worries!

You Are Loved

Christmas Changed the World

As I sit here pondering my Christmas to-do list, I find myself wondering where all of this began.  From Christmas cards to cookies and decorations to parties, all of the activity throughout the holiday season leaves little time to focus on the true meaning of Christmas.  While I enjoy every aspect of Christmas, including all of these fun aspects of the holiday season, it is my hope and prayer that we can all slow down a bit, amid the busyness of Christmas, and remember that special night so long ago.

On the first Christmas night, there were no last-minute holiday sales or revolving Christmas trees adorned with twinkling lights.  No one wrote Christmas cards to a hundred of their closest relatives or friends and no one wrapped gag gifts for the annual office Christmas party.  On that glorious night, a bright star lit up the heavens, announcing the birth of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  The first Christmas night, while quite humble compared to the fanfare we have today, was the moment that changed the world forever.  Although Jesus Christ was born in a hay-filled manger, he grew up to save the world.

This Christmas, I am striving to keep my eyes on Jesus Christ.  Even as I select special items to give to my family and friends, I want these items to remind them of my love for them and in turn, the love that Jesus has for all of us.  To me, the greatest joy in giving a gift is sharing my love with someone else.  I truly believe that it is more blessed to give than receive.  So did God.  But he didn’t give us another pair of socks, a gift card to our favorite restaurant, or a new smartphone.  He gave us his only Son, Jesus Christ, as the greatest gift ever given in the history of mankind.

Following in his Father’s footsteps, Jesus gave of himself by healing the sick, raising the dead, and performing many miracles.  Jesus helped others more than we will ever know.  God’s Word says, “Jesus also did many other things.  If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written” (John 21:25 NLT).  Then when Jesus was 33 years old, he made the ultimate sacrifice by giving his life, so that we could have eternal life (see I John 3:16).

Jesus’ level of giving sort of makes that beautiful scarf you bought for your grandmother or the train set you picked out for your children pale in comparison doesn’t it?  That’s the beauty of gift giving though.  Jesus gave of himself, expecting nothing in return.  Even now, he doesn’t expect any form of repayment.  We have the freedom to either accept this priceless gift of grace or reject this precious gift that has been freely extended to every man, woman, boy, and girl.

This Christmas season, my prayer is that you will embrace the love of Jesus Christ.  As you write your Christmas cards to family and friends, decorate sugar cookies with your sons and daughters, and enjoy shopping for all of the special gift recipients on your list, remember why we celebrate this holiday in the first place.  Even amid the holiday hustle, Jesus Christ is the reason for it all.  Without the birth of Christ, Christmas would not be CHRISTmas.  Without Christ, the world would not be the same.  The birth of Jesus brought love, peace, and joy to the world.  On that first Christmas night so long ago, Hope was born.  Eternal hope found only through Jesus Christ.  That is how Christmas changed the world.

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

Peace Beyond Understanding

Have you ever experienced something in life that tried to rob you of your peace?  There are minor instances where our peace is suppressed only momentarily, such as when we have a flat tire on the way to work.  Sometimes in life, though, we endure hardships that seem too difficult to bear.  I know firsthand what the latter feels like.  Nearly six years ago, on August 2, 2008, my mom went to be with the Lord.  That night, my world was shattered.  But even in the midst of the most horrific night of my life, Jesus Christ wrapped His loving arms around me and my dad.  Although our human eyes saw what looked like a devastating storm raging in our lives, He showered our hearts and minds with peace beyond our understanding.

All of my life, I have read Philippians chapter four and it still one of my favorite passages of scripture.  But it wasn’t until I went through the tragedy of losing my mom that I truly began to understand the meaning of verse 7.  Here is the verse in context, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV).  The Apostle Paul tells us that we should not be anxious.  That means we should not worry about anything.  Instead, he tells us to pray in every situation.

You might be thinking, how could I possibly not worry and pray when I am upset, stressed, or grieving?  I know, it sounds nearly impossible.  But I can tell you that a life with constant anxiety is much more difficult than a life with prayer at the center.  That night, as we called loved ones to give them the devastating news, Psalm 121:1-2 ran through my mind repeatedly.  It says, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?  My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”  I looked up at the silhouette of the mountains under the moonlit sky and prayed that God would give us strength in the coming hours, days, months, and years.

You see, even as I stood outside our camper with a broken heart, I knew that Jesus Christ was not only standing beside us, but He was holding our hands, to keep us from falling.  He is the Prince of Peace.  Although the circumstances were anything but peaceful, Jesus brought peace to our troubled hearts.  My dad and I sat beside my mom and sang, “Living by Faith.”  Our faith was the only thing that kept us going in that heartbreaking moment.  We prayed that God would send the Comforter to us.  Through our faith in God, we were showered with the peace that Paul wrote about.  We had peace in a situation where it doesn’t even seem to belong, according to our human perspective.  This kind of peace is a peace that exceeds all understanding.

One day my parents and I were enjoying a family vacation in the mountains and the next day, my dad and I were going to the local funeral home.  My heart had shattered into a million pieces.  My dad and I were exhausted, physically, mentally, and emotionally.  But we still had peace.  It wasn’t the peace like one feels while lying in the sun at the beach or listening to the raindrops go pitter patter on a metal roof.  This was the kind of Heavenly peace that I cannot understand nor fully explain.  Inexplicable peace that comes from Heaven above when the current circumstances seem like peace should not be found.  That is the kind of peace Paul writes about and the kind of peace that we experienced that night.

Six years later, I still miss my mom daily.  But my dad and I have found a new normal and a new purpose.  The same God who gave us peace in the midst of a tumultuous storm six years ago is the same God who gives us peace now, whether we are on the mountain top or in the valley.  Life without my mom is not easy, especially on days like her birthday, Mother’s Day, or even this coming Saturday, August 2.  But our lives are made glorious by the peace and joy that comes from knowing Jesus Christ!  He is the reason we live, the reason we laugh, the reason we love!  I thank Him every day for His countless blessings and His peace that passes all understanding.

I want to encourage you today.  Whatever it is you are going through, put your unwavering trust in Jesus Christ.  He will never fail you.  The peace that comes from knowing Jesus Christ as your personal Savior is unlike any other you will ever encounter on this earth.  With Jesus Christ living in your heart, you will experience a truly abundant life.  Through the good times and the bad times, He will guard your heart with peace like no other.  He will fill your heart with joy unspeakable!  You will be able to face each and every day with the calm assurance that God will give you peace beyond your understanding!

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

Whatever

Whatever.  It is a word uttered by countless people on television and by many disgruntled children and adults alike.  For decisions as simple as what to have for lunch to major ones such as which school to attend or what job to apply for, the casual response of “whatever” seems a little indecisive; as if the person is not focused enough to truly concentrate on the issue at hand.  Yet, with all of the shortcomings this word may hold, it is used with much abandon on issues even more crucial than meals, colleges, and careers.

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the first known use of the word whatever was recorded in the fourteenth century.  While the word has multiple meanings, one of the definitions is “anything and everything that.”  Wikipedia states that the slang term means “I don’t care what you say.”  In reality, the entire world has adopted a “whatever” attitude.

Many people today feel that they can do or say anything they like without acknowledging the consequences of their actions.  They recklessly run wide open, like a loose cannon rolling around on the deck of a ship.  Without any respect for the destruction they may cause along the way, they keep living their lives with selfish ambition, disregarding the way their actions are affecting others.

From superstars who live with reckless abandon to doctors who promote abortion, this world is filled with instances of people whose existence is essentially based on a “don’t care” attitude, devoid of values, morals, and in many cases, even common sense.  This idea of “anything goes” may be popular for the moment, but history has shown that this pattern only leads down a dead end road.

Recently, I have been saddened when I turn on the news, hearing the way many Biblical principles have largely been tossed aside in favor of more secular ones.  Many of these secular views are not just being casually referenced to, but instead, they are being promoted in the public eye at widely popular events such as the Grammy Awards and the upcoming Super Bowl.  Instead of focusing on musical talent or athletic ability, events like these are now becoming political arenas.

While the word “whatever” may relate to many things that are wrong on this earth, this word is used in a positive way in the Bible.  The Apostle Paul used this word six times within one single verse in his letter to the Philippians.  Instead of telling them that he didn’t care or that they could do whatever they pleased, he gave them advice for how they should live their lives.  He imparted wisdom, so that they could find joy for their journey, no matter what was going on around them.  His message also applies to you and me today, even in the year 2014.  Paul writes, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8 NIV).

Paul begins by telling us to think about things that are true.  In reality, the old adage is true: if you tell the truth, it’s easier to keep your story straight.  Yet the devil often tempts us to tell falsehoods on a daily basis, also imparting his own lies to try to undermine what God wants to do in our midst.  Instead of getting trapped in his evil snares, we should focus our attention on the true and living God.  Our hearts should be tuned to His still, small voice, so that we can hear the Truth, the Life, the Way, Jesus Christ.  Only by thinking on what is true will we be truly content.

He continues by saying that we should think about “whatever is noble.”  In this context, noble refers to things that are moral, upright, or honorable.  We should not even be thinking about engaging in immoral behavior.  As Christians, we have to set ourselves apart from the worldly ways, so that we can be an example to the world.  We should strive to be like Jesus, walking daily in His Father’s will, always shining our light for all to see, like a beacon in the night.

Paul also encourages us to think about things that are right.  This concept brings to mind a child who is learning the difference between right and wrong.  You can tell them multiple times not to eat several handfuls of candy before bed.  Inevitably, they will sneak into the candy jar, testing their limits just to see what happens.  In their case, this results in a stomach ache that eventually subsides.  Sadly, our human inclination to “push the limit” often does greater damage, resulting in permanent injury or even death.  We know it is right to obey the speed limit, yet we all find ourselves going a “little over” at times.  We need to remember that a slight increase in speed can be so much more detrimental if we have a blowout or a deer runs in front of our car.  By doing what is right in all things, we will certainly avoid unwarranted heartache and disappointment in life.

Then Paul says we should think about “whatever is pure,” “lovely,” and “admirable.”  When I hear the word pure, I am reminded of the precious blood of Jesus that washes us white as snow.  Our sins have been forgiven.  We have been cleansed.  We are pure through Jesus Christ.  Yet this world imparts so much corruption, from immoral living arrangements to the disregard for human life.  Instead of hiding in a corner somewhere, we need to take a stand for Jesus, showing the world that Jesus saves.  We must carry the message of His love to a lost and dying world, keeping our minds pure, focused on the One who is the purest of the pure, the most admirable, and worthy of our praise, Jesus Christ.

Finally, Paul tells us that our minds should be centered on anything that is “excellent” or “praiseworthy.”  Paul doesn’t tell us to think about the expletives we heard on that “family friendly” television program.  And he doesn’t tell us to dwell on the fact that we told a lie, cheated someone out of something, or engaged in any other inappropriate behavior.  Instead, he tells us to live of a life of excellence.  We should think about things that will allow us to be a positive role model for others to look up to and to think about things that are worthy of our praise.

You may be reading this, thinking, “I can’t think about all of those things right now.  There are too many things about me you don’t know.  It’s just...too difficult.”  You might even respond to this blog by saying, “Whatever.”  Friend, I want to encourage you today.  Your situation may be dire, but so was Paul’s when he wrote this scripture.  Paul wrote this letter while he was confined in prison.  Even so, he uses the words “joy” and “rejoice” in the book of Philippians a total of sixteen times.  He knew that Jesus would deliver him from behind those bars.  And he also had the assurance that whether he remained in prison or was soon set free, God would take care of him.

Paul unlocked the secret to living in peace, despite our current situations.  In Philippians 4:6-7, he writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Paul knew there was more to life than the bars that surrounded him. Whatever happened, he knew that God would be faithful to the end.

God will do the same thing for you.  No matter what your circumstances, Jesus Christ loves you with an everlasting love.  Every mountain you have to climb, He will help you summit every peak.  Every river you have to cross, He will be your lifeline.  And every day you wake up wondering how you will get out of bed in the morning, He will be there, holding out His hand, giving you strength to face another day.  And when you give God all of your worries and cares, you’ll find that it becomes easier to think about the positive instead of dwelling on the negativity.  So set aside your fears, cast aside your “whatever’s,” and rejoice in the Lord always!

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

God Is With Us!

This past Sunday morning at approximately 1:30 a.m., the doorbell rang.  Chills ran up and down my spine.  Questions filled my mind.  Who was it?  What did they want?  Why were they here?  I was genuinely scared.  Immediately, I began to pray.  While I didn’t have an answer for the questions racing through my mind, I knew that God had everything under control.  I had the reassurance that God was with us.

My dad went to see who was banging on our door violently and ringing the doorbell repeatedly.  An individual who was under the influence of either drugs or alcohol had flipped their car and landed in a neighbor’s field.  This person had come to our house for help.  We called 911 and soon they were being attended to by the EMTs.  I prayed that they would be alright.  And I also thanked God for standing beside us, protecting my dad and me, and giving us His wisdom and peace even in an uncertain situation.

Sometimes, it is difficult to have faith that God will be with us through every trial in our lives.  I cannot tell you that it was easy to trust God while someone was beating on our door in the middle of the night.  There are times when we will be frightened to the point of trembling.  In these moments, our human nature tries to take over and tells us that everything is not okay.  But if we listen closely enough, we will find that there is a still, small voice saying, “Child, I am with you always.  Everything is going to be alright.”

Other times, it is so easy to trust God completely.  Last weekend, I attended a church ladies retreat.  At the retreat, we laughed and enjoyed a lot of delicious food, including delicious, fresh-baked cinnamon rolls and copious amounts of fresh strawberries straight from Plant City, Florida.  Most importantly, we were fed spiritually.  By Sunday morning, we were on cloud nine.  Right before the communion service, we received news that our retired pastor’s cancer was in remission.  At this very moment, God seemed so very near.  Trusting God was so simple.

On Monday morning, I learned that Pastor Jim had gone on to be with the Lord, having stepped through Heaven’s gates peacefully in his sleep.  He was such a kindhearted man of God, who was humble in every way.  He loved his family, his church family, and most important, he loved Jesus Christ with all of his heart.  We prayed for Pastor Jim on Sunday, just as we had been doing for months.  And on Monday, our prayers were answered.  Only it wasn’t the answer that we were praying for.  You see, we don’t always understand God’s answers, but we can always be assured that He knows best.  When we are on top of the mountain, trusting God comes easily for us.  But when we are in the valley, it becomes much more difficult to trust that God has a perfect plan.

I want to encourage you today.  This valley that you are going through will not last forever.  Sometimes you have to go through a storm in order to enjoy a rainbow.  Even in the sunset, there’s sunshine awaiting you.  Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”  Don’t rely on what your human mind can or cannot comprehend.  Rely on God.  God knows exactly what you are going through.  He is right there with you and He will walk every step of the way right by your side.  The Bible says that He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).  Things may not make sense to you right now, but a day is coming when everything will be made clear to you.  God will show you His plan for your life in His timing.  Trust in Him.  Follow His steps.  Take comfort in the fact that God is always with you!

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

Adore Him!

The Christmas trees are being taken down, the decorations are being carefully packed away, and the gifts are being put to good use.  All of the Christmas cookies have been eaten.  And many people have likely placed their Christmas music in storage until next December.  That is, of course, unless you are like me.  You may still have one of your favorite Christmas CDs in your car, holding on to the Christmas season as long as you possibly can.  In my SUV, that CD is “A Brooklyn Tabernacle Christmas.”

This particular CD reminds me of the wonderful memories I have of sitting in the Brooklyn Tabernacle hearing the angelic voices join together in song to celebrate the Savior’s birth.  Then, I start to recall the overwhelming peace and joy I felt as the congregation sang the words from the beloved carol, “O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.”  It was in this moment that I realized once and for all that Christmas is not a season or a holiday.  Christmas is a time to adore Jesus Christ.  Christ is all about adoring Him.

You see, Christmas is not just a day at all.  Christmas is a state of mind.  It’s the way we smile a little bigger, embrace our loved ones harder, and laugh a lot more.  It’s the way we give more, complain less, and maintain a cheerier disposition.  It’s how we sing a little louder and love our family and friends even more.  Ultimately, Christmas is about the moment we realize that Jesus Christ truly is our Lord and Savior, the King of Kings who was born in a manger of hay in a stable.  And Christmas reminds us that He was not only born one Christmas night, but He grew up to be a man.

For the little boy whose birth we celebrate on December 25^th each year is the same One who gave His life on a cross for the sole purpose of washing away our sins.  He suffered and died just so that you and I could have eternal life.  John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  You may be wondering why God sent His only Son to die on a cross.  The answer is simple.  He wanted to give us the greatest gift that has ever been given.  That’s how much He loves you and me, not just on Christmas, but every day of the year.

While I realize there may not be room in our homes for a Christmas tree all year through, I pray that there is always room in our hearts to remember the most miraculous birth ever recorded in the history of mankind.  I challenge you this year to keep the spirit of Christmas alive in your heart every single day.  Do something nice for someone when they least expect it.  Call someone to let them know you were thinking of them.  Write a note to someone to let them know you are praying for them.  Visit a nursing home, volunteer in a school, or donate to a local charity.  Hug your family and tell them you love them even more.  Do something in the spirit of Christmas every day of the year.  Why?  Just because.

Oh, and about that Christmas CD in your car…keep that there, too.  People always say they adore their kids, their husband, or their wife.  They even adore their house, puppy, kitten, car, motorcycle, smartphone, laptop, sweater, jeans, purse, you name it!  While all of this is well and good, I am sure with all of this adoration being spread around that no one will look at you funny if you listen to a song adoring Him, even in the month of January.  So, please join me in raising our voices in unison as we maintain a Christmas state of mind all year through!  “O, come let us adore Him!”

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

Baggage

Think back to the last time you were at the airport.  When you arrived, I’m sure you were lugging all of your baggage with you until you finally made it to the check-in counter.  Then, you left it with the airline agent and proceeded toward security with only your carry on bags in hand.  Wasn’t it a relief to be rid of the baggage that weighed you down?  If you’re like me, you probably felt free, or even light as a feather.  Why?  All because you gave your luggage to someone else and left it with them.

The luggage that we carry with us on vacation is much like our burdens that we carry around in life.  We may be concerned because we do not have sufficient funds to pay the rent.  Or we may be distressed over a bare cupboard in the kitchen.  There may be a desperate need for new tires, an air conditioner, or even a home to live in.  Or maybe we are dealing with an emotional or mental burden, such as the feeling of depression, loneliness, or hopelessness.  So many burdens, yet we continue to carry them around with us, struggling through each day.

Sometimes, we go to church on Sunday, kneel at the altar, and pray for God to take our burdens.  We set our burdens on the altar rail.  We feel so much better and we begin to see a ray of hope begins to shine through the clouds that have been lingering overhead.  As the vocalist sings these lyrics, “Take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there,” we make a solemn commitment to God that we will no longer attempt to carry our burdens alone.  Everything seems brighter and we know that things will be better.  That is, until we see the mess we have made, leaving our burdens all over the altar.  The moment we stand up, we start picking them back up, stuffing them into our pockets or pocketbooks.  We've carried them so long that they have essentially become a part of who we are, albeit a negative part.  It’s so easy for us to try to take things into our own hands.  Instead, God wants us to leave it all in His hands.

What about you, friend? Perhaps you are newly widowed, divorced, or separated. Your child may be ill. You may feel like you are at the end of your rope with everything that is going on in your life at this very moment. The baggage you carry is getting too heavy. You feel like you will collapse under the weight. You simply do not know what to do. I want to encourage you right now to call on the name that is above every name. Call on the name of Jesus Christ. He will take your burdens. He will lighten your load. He will renew your mind, restore your joy, and reveal to you abundant life.

Our Heavenly Father does not want you to carry your burdens.  He does not want you to live in worry, fear, or despair.  He wants you to live a life of joy, peace, and grace.  Jesus Christ gave His life on the cross just so our sins could be forgiven.  He gave His all just so you could live a life free from sin, free from worry, free from everything that weighs you down.  He does not want you to be lugging around an enormous amount of baggage.  Give Him your baggage, big or small.  Give Him your worries and cares.  I Peter 5:7 says to cast all of your cares on Him because He cares for you.  Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, loves you more than you could ever imagine.  He cares for you.  He wants to help you.  Don’t pick up your burdens like you pick up your luggage from baggage claim.  Leave them on the altar.  Hand them over to Jesus.  Live a life free from baggage, so you can be abundantly free!

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

Mountain-Sized Storms

Several weeks ago, I was huddled under the awning on our deck in the Great Smoky Mountains.  The rain was falling rapidly from the clouds, the thunder echoed through the mountains, and the lightening flashed brightly in the evening sky.  Directly across from our deck, there is a breathtakingly beautiful mountain stream.  Cascading down into the stream is a gorgeous waterfall.  Even in the midst of a fierce and somewhat frightening mountain thunderstorm, the beauty surrounding the area remains truly indescribable.

In life, there are many types of mountain-sized storms.  There are the physical ones that we can see and hear.  In these storms, we can readily seek shelter from the rain and wind.  Through the wisdom God has imparted to the men and women manning the weather stations, we often receive advance warning that a severe storm is approaching our area, giving us time to adequately prepare, which improves our safety in the midst of the storm.  Other times, we are not so fortunate.  Sometimes, there is not enough warning.

A close family friend once shared her experience as she and her family lived to tell the tale of the nightmarish storm named Hurricane Andrew that swept through Miami, Florida.  She told us how she and her family huddled in the bathtub, praying and hoping they would all survive the howling winds, the torrential rain, and the endless debris.  As their roof and the walls of their home were stripped away from the foundation, they wondered if they would survive.  As the storm moved on, it only left one thing behind: the bathtub.  Though everything they owned was either destroyed or blown away, they were alive.  Their family had been spared.  God had granted them safety in the storm.

Sometimes, even the knowledge that a storm is in the area cannot prepare us for the devastation that lies ahead.  A hurricane can be too fierce, a tornado can come upon us too suddenly, a tsunami can overtake us before we have time to evacuate…  Much like these physical storms, there are also emotional and mental storms that we must endure.  And much like the aforementioned physical storms, there is not always adequate warning with regard to when and where these storms will strike.

At the age of sixteen years old, I went into my closet to change clothes.  My dad and I were preparing to go see my mom who was in the hospital.  I felt a piercing pain in my side.  Within a few short hours, I was lying on an operating table, having been diagnosed with a perforated colon and peritonitis.  If the doctors had not operated immediately and if my parents had not prayed for my healing, I might not have lived through the night.

My parents were very concerned and prayed diligently that the Lord would spare my life.  I remember my words to them as I was about to be rolled into the operating room.  I told them that I loved them and that God would make sure everything was alright.  Even in the midst of this storm, I had assurance that God would make it right.  I knew that His promise in Romans 8:28 was true.

All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

As I sit here today, fourteen years later, I can still tell you with calm assurance that everything will be okay.  Since that time, I have weathered many more storms, some of which have been much more ferocious.  The night my mom had a heart attack was one of the most violent storms I have ever faced.  Each time I walk in our living room in our camper in the mountains, I am reminded of the horrors of that night.  For several years, I have questioned why God would take her at such a young age, and why He would allow it to happen there, at our beautiful place in the mountains.  How could something so tragic occur in such a magnificent and peaceful setting?

While I do not have all of the answers, I have come to realize that these questions are not important.  Instead, I am beginning to realize that instead of avoiding this place I used to love, I need to embrace it.  Rather than dwelling on one single night, I need to focus on the fifteen years that we have spent in the midst of these majestic mountain landscapes.  I need to be grateful for the memories that we have made there and enjoy making new memories each and every day that God allows us to be in the midst of His awe-inspiring Creation.

Why?  Because even through my uncertainty, even through the storm that swept through my life nearly four years ago, and even through my emotional ups and downs relating to this place I find both peaceful and unsettling, God knows me and loves me without fail.  In every moment I feel ill at ease there, He loves me.  In every moment that I question Him, He loves me.  In every moment I just need to feel loved, He loves me.

Friend, I want to encourage you and remind you that God loves you, too, with an absolute love that has no end.  God will take everything that has happened in your life and use it for your good.  You may not understand it yet.  Perhaps you are still spinning around in a tornado of emotions, or maybe you are inundated by a flood of sorrowful tears.  No matter what storm you are facing, God is standing with you.  He will ensure that you make it safely to the sunshine once more, where you will be able to enjoy the beauty surrounding you.  Though the thunder may roll, the lightening may flash, and the rain may fall, God will be your Shelter from the storm.

In Christ's Love,
Jennifer

Be Still

Have you ever seen a child, squirming in their seat, despite their mother or father’s constant pleas to “sit still?” Or have you ever experienced a time when you were so nervous that you fidgeted in your seat, waiting for some important news or event? Maybe you are running to and fro, constantly caught up in the day’s activities, unable to stop and take a breath, even for a moment.

In this world, there are things that we all must accomplish each day. There are also things in life that are difficult to handle. It is natural for us to want to try to do as much as we can to either make others around us comfortable, or to find peace for our own troubled soul. But, try as we might, there are some things we cannot do alone. Even if we run ourselves ragged, twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week, peace can only be found through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

In Psalm 46:10 (NIV), we are given simple instructions on what we should do when we are feeling weary and spread too thin. God’s Word says, “‘Be still, and know that I am God.’” Notice this scripture does not say to run around like a chicken with your head cut off, trying to be about the Father’s business. Instead, it simply says, “‘Be still.’” In other words, stop. Slow down. Listen carefully to His voice.

Recently, I observed one particular child at a large event. Sitting in the row in front of me with their parent, the child did not want to sit still. Not only that, but this child continually stood up on their seat, blocking my view of the platform. They whined and complained to their parent, but no matter what consequence they were given, the behavior continued, just as before. The child stood up, walked across the seats, leaned on their parent’s shoulder, and complained some more. This cycle continued until the program was over. While I was a little annoyed that they would distract me during a beautiful portrayal of the life of Jesus, I thought of the parallel between this child and many children of God.

We get so wrapped up in the things that we are doing on this earth, and we often fail to remember that God is guiding us along the way. Instead of sitting still and listening to His voice, we keep running back and forth, whining about the things we want, listing the things that are going wrong, or even complaining about life itself. In our constant pacing, we often distract other people along the way. We block their view, and in doing so, we may cause them to miss out on some of the blessings God has in store for them as well.

The final part of that verse says, “‘know that I am God.’” God doesn’t say to be still and see if I turn out to be God. It doesn’t say to be still and wonder who I am. It says, know that I am God. The word know means to be absolutely certain about something, beyond a shadow of a doubt. God is saying that if we just stop what we are doing and pay attention, we will know that He is God. There will be no question. There will be no mistaking. We will know for a fact that the God of all creation cares for us, loves us, and is always with us.

In this world, people worship many different gods. But, there is only one God who is the Creator of the world. Genesis 1:1 (NIV) says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” It doesn’t say one of the gods; it says, “God” in the singular form of the noun. There is only one God who can save your soul. There is only one God who can make you whole. There is only one God who can give you real peace.

Maybe you’re reading this blog, thinking, I wish I knew this God Jennifer is writing about. Perhaps you have heard about Him before, but you feel you are not good enough to have a personal relationship with Him. God loves you. Don’t race around, looking for answers. Avoid living a hectic lifestyle, constantly searching for peace. Before you complain, look to God, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Simply be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10 NIV).

In Christ’s Love,

Jennifer

A New Sense of Direction

When was the last time you stopped and asked for directions?  Maybe you searched for the desired destination on your Global Positioning System.  Perhaps you called someone on the phone to find out which way you should go.  It probably didn’t matter where you obtained the information, just so long as you made it to your destination safely and on time.  In life, there are many places we must go and appointments we must keep, but the most important directions we will ever read are the ones in God’s Word.  This Book is a roadmap, not for the highways and byways on which we drive our automobiles, but a map for life itself.  It tells us where to turn, where to stop, and where we should be at all times.  If you find that you are lost on your journey through life, Jesus Christ can help you find a new sense of direction.

Today, the dog that took up residence on our doorstep this week seemed to get a sense of direction.  He started walking toward our hay barn on the hill and disappeared out of sight.  All of the sudden, it just seemed as if something clicked in its head, and he knew which way to go to get home.  No, he didn’t have the ability to search for his owner’s house on Google Maps.  But God knew which direction he should go, and I am sure that God guided him all the way home.  Now, he is no longer sitting on our doorstep, looking like the misplaced canine he once was.  Even though he didn’t have a written map with him, he seemed to know exactly where he was going.  Unfortunately, finding the right direction is not always so easy, especially for people.

Sometimes, there are directions in life that have nothing to do with driving a car down the road.  These types of directions cannot be found on the Internet or any other electronic gadget for that matter.  You see, life is not equipped with a GPS unit that will continuously tell us to “turn left” or “turn right.”  Some decisions will be extremely difficult.  Some journeys will be nearly impossible.  Some roads will be treacherous.  Yet, you can take comfort in the fact that Jesus Christ will be with you every step of the way.  And with Jesus by your side, you will always know which direction to turn.

Perhaps you have made a wrong turn in your life and do not know how to cope.  You may have left your family, seeking a better life or a more fulfilling existence, only to find that single life is not what you truly desired.  It may be that the absence of the love of your family is nearly more than you can bear.  Or you might have entered a life of drugs and alcohol, just to realize that these things only provide a temporary reprieve from the difficulties you are facing.  You may have decided that these things are not the ultimate answer, but you do not know how to get back on the straight and narrow.  Or you could be someone who was raised as a Christian all of your life, but have recently found yourself straying away from Jesus Christ.  Now, you may be trying to find your way back home to the safety of His arms, but you’re so far away, you do not know how to get there from where you are now.

Jesus Christ has not forgotten you.  He cares for you.  He wants you to come home.  There is no spot on this earth that is out of the reach of our Heavenly Father.  He knows where you are.  He knows everything you have done, every turn you have made, every road you have taken.  Even if you made poor choices, He loves you unconditionally.  He wants to guide you and direct you, and He wants to help you make it home.  The Bible says, “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:6 KJV).  He doesn’t want you to stay lost, wasting your life in all of the wrong places.  He will give you directions, leading you to the right places.

If you are struggling with some particular aspect of your life, don’t sit on someone else’s porch, simply because you cannot find your way home again.  Ask God to help you.  Ask Him for His guidance.  Ask Him for a new sense of direction.  He will show you how to get home.  God’s Word says, “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him” (Psalm 37:5 ESV).  Trust Him today.  If you are going the wrong way, God allows U-turns.  He loves you more than you could ever imagine.  Open up your heart, listen to His voice, and allow Him to guide you to the life you have always dreamed of living.  Don’t wander around aimlessly.  Look to God for a new sense of direction.  He will bring you to a place of peace, joy, and hope.  Best of all, he will bring you home.

In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer