Everyday Matters
Friday Matters
Everyday Alongside
There’s someone hurting who needs healing, someone unloved who needs our touch; elderly, needing to feel that we care; and someone who is weak and needs the support of our shared weakness.
Everyday Alongside
There’s someone hurting who needs healing, someone unloved who needs our touch; elderly, needing to feel that we care; and someone who is weak and needs the support of our shared weakness. I get it. Late author and speaker Brennan Manning gets it. He shared; “One of the most healing words I ever spoke as a confessor was to an old priest with a drinking problem. “Just a few years ago,” I said, “I was a hopeless alcoholic in the gutter in Fort Lauderdale.” “You?” he cried. “O Thank God!”
When we bring a smile to the face of someone in pain, we have brought Christ to them. I know hurt, ache and pain. What helps me? It’s NOT to hear more of what I should and should not do. I need to hear; “There’s hope. I’m sorry for this ache in your heart.” God fully knows and loves us and He’s not disappointed in us. He’s disappointed when we don’t change our sinful ways. Come alongside the one who needs God’s grace and mercy just as much as you do…everyday.
Thursday Matters
Everyday Appearance
“Oh sure, you can post photos of me on Facebook, but I can always ask you to delete them.”
Everyday Pride
Pride is a difficult problem for us to deal with because it hides. Obadiah 1:3 says Pride deceives us and causes us to think we don’t have it. The only way I can have the patience with someone who’s difficult or who hurt me is when I’m able to ask God to let me see the person as He sees them. That’s humbling. I know pride is the poison behind many broken relationships.
The signs of pride include an unwillingness to admit fault or a reluctance to take responsibility for one’s actions. Yeah, I know you’re probably thinking of someone who needs to hear this, but that person maybe you! Pride wants to do all the talking and none of the listening. And pride doesn’t want to make peace because it’s so stubborn and doesn’t want to be instructed. It only wants to instruct others. Remember we are all of equal value in God’s eyes so let’s not esteem ourselves above the value of another but really LOVE one another…. everyday.
Wednesday Matters
Everyday Sins of Others
It’s painful enough when someone we love sins, but it’s made extra difficult when their choices result in us experiencing pain and grief too. It’s hard.
Everyday Sins of Others
It’s painful enough when someone we love sins, but it’s made extra difficult when their choices result in us experiencing pain and grief too. It’s hard. I’m sorry if you’re there in that place right now. You’ve made a mistake; you have consequences but so do others around you. But it’s often in times of conflict that we’re drawn closer to God. His promises are ones of absolute hope, and He promises that “all things will work for the good” if we trust in Him. It’s also in the Bible that the words “fear not” are written 365 times. There is grace for each day of the year.
Another promise in Hebrews 13 is God’s emphatic love for us; “He says, I will not in any way fail you or leave you without support. I will not, I will not, I will not ever leave you or let you down.” God is real. He is the comfort you need from all your fears in a very real way…everyday.
Tuesday Matters
Everyday Having Fun
Do you wanna have fun? I think most of us do especially when the earth experience is hard. It’s not just the girls who wanna have fun
Everyday Having Fun
Do you wanna have fun? I think most of us do especially when the earth experience is hard. It’s not just the girls who wanna have fun. There are events or responsibilities that we all have that aren’t always pleasant so try to find fun wherever you are. I kinda have this motto that works, “If it’s not fun, I’m done.” If we go into a difficult situation or experience with an attitude to find the humor in it, we find the difficulty less emotionally draining. This has been a game changer for me; to find a person in the moment to connect to or by asking God to see the blessing or lesson in the situation and find the “funny” helps to actually see that “nothing is wasted” with Christ. The way we respond to difficulties with an attitude of hope or humor is a greater testimony to others than us preaching to them.
Let His love of kindness, patience and truth we read about in 1 Corinthians 13 cause you to live with hope and freedom, drawing others to you and Him with joy and laughter…everyday.
Monday Matters
Everyday Seat at the Table
Come sit down. Let me hear your story, your heart. Tell me what you’re feeling because your feelings are valid, and you are welcome at my table.
Everyday Seat at the Table
Come sit down. Let me hear your story, your heart. Tell me what you’re feeling because your feelings are valid, and you are welcome at my table. We all are welcome at God’s table too because we’re all created and loved by Him. He will never reject or withdraw His love from us, but He does reject sin. Sin is not welcome at the table. It’s taken me years to really grasp that God fully knows me and yet He fully loves me, completely, just as am. What God doesn’t love is sin because it’s a barrier to us having a relationship with Him. Sin wins unless pardoned.
Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice on the cross to pay the full price for our sin. His resurrection proves He succeeded. Come and sit, invite others to sit at God’s table with you. Through God’s unconditional love He will show Himself with all we need to be filled with hope and peace…everyday.
Friday Matters
Everyday Facebook Delete
What? She deleted me on Facebook. What? I thought we were friends.
Everyday Facebook Delete
What? She deleted me on Facebook. What? I thought we were friends. I think most of us who use Facebook have either been deleted by someone or we’ve done the deleting. Sure, reasons to un-friend a Facebook friend like: you're cleaning up your Facebook, you don’t really know a person, or someone is malicious; are valid reasons to “delete” someone. However, to un-friend someone because you’re hurt because they didn't meet your expectations is unkind. It’s kinda like kicking someone and running away. Your intent is to hurt them because you've been hurt. There’s no justification for that.
What is friendship all about? What does God say? Look at Proverbs 17:17; “A friend loves at all times.” And we must all know… “Love is kind.” We also know love doesn’t demand its own way or keep a record of being wronged. Having a good friend is a blessing but being one, I think the blessing might be even bigger…everyday.
Thursday Matters
Everyday Appearance
“Oh sure, you can post photos of me on Facebook, but I can always ask you to delete them.”
Everyday Appearance
“Oh sure, you can post photos of me on Facebook, but I can always ask you to delete them.” My friend posted photos from a gathering and after viewing I wrote, “Please delete.” I appreciated that she took them down and didn’t judge me because of it. I KNOW I’m my worst critic and I KNOW that beauty comes from the inside, but I also know that it’s okay to care about what we’re communicating with how we look on the outside. My attitude changes when I take a shower and put a bit of effort into my outside appearance.
But our value and worth are not in our outward appearance. Our worth and value is who God says we are and the person that He uniquely created. We are not a mistake, and He doesn’t make junk. It’s hard because all of us tend to first judge others by looking at their outsides but what holds our attention is the beauty that’s on the inside. So, remember Proverbs 31:30; Charm is deceptive, and beauty doesn’t last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised…everyday.
Wednesday Matters
Everyday Shame at Home
Jenny said, “The knowledge of my husband's addiction caused me great shame. I remember being in a mom’s group and conversations going on about all the normal mom-stuff like potty-training, sleepless nights, a shared recipe and the entire time I’m smiling and pretending. I thought; ‘If only they knew.’
Everyday Shame at Home
Jenny said, “The knowledge of my husband's addiction caused me great shame. I remember being in a mom’s group and conversations going on about all the normal mom-stuff like potty-training, sleepless nights, a shared recipe and the entire time I’m smiling and pretending. I thought; ‘If only they knew.’ I was afraid to let go of this image.” I’m so sorry if you’ve been through that hard place of betrayal like Jenny. But please share your story because you’re not alone. Shame keeps us hidden, hurting and silent. It builds walls and fights against being real.
You need to know that “guilt” says you did something wrong. “Shame,” on the other hand, says that you are something wrong. You are NOT something wrong, you’re your hurt feelings aren’t wrong. Jesus loves you, me and all the “Jennies” our there. He loves us where we are and in Matthew 11, He says to come as you are. Alright then, let’s give it to Him. It’s gonna be okay and it will get better…everyday.
Tuesday Matters
Everyday Sharpened
Do you know someone who’s served in the military? I know many and one of them is my husband, Dan.
Everyday Sharpened
Do you know someone who’s served in the military? I know many and one of them is my husband, Dan. Military people serve as an act of love for others. I remember Dan telling me that in the army they were constantly drilled that they needed to keep their weapons clean and ready for use. A useless weapon not only made the soldier useless, but also a liability because now someone else needs to pick up the slack. In Ephesian 6 God gives us a list of armor, but only one weapon—the Bible which is the Sword of the Spirit is the only offensive weapon of the six God’s calls us to “put on.” Our knowledge of the Word is its sharpness.
There are so MANY things screaming for our attention and I’m sure, like me, you are being pulled in many directions. But God never changes no matter what the direction of our day is. So Let the Word of God be in your head and heart; sharpened…everyday.
Monday Matters
Everyday Jealousy
Jealousy is one of the most dangerous poisons which can literally destroy us. It’s challenging because we know we shouldn’t be jealous so we pretend it’s not happening, and we find reasons why the other person shouldn’t have success.
Everyday Jealousy
Jealousy is one of the most dangerous poisons which can literally destroy us. It’s challenging because we know we shouldn’t be jealous so we pretend it’s not happening, and we find reasons why the other person shouldn’t have success.
A few years ago, I watched a video of a woman I was mentoring. I was amazed at the talent and beauty she displayed on screen. But instead of feeling happy for her, I was jealous; “Why her?” I called my husband and said, “I’m jealous.” As soon as I brought my jealousy to the light it no longer had power over me. I was able to congratulate my friend on her success, and the poison of envy did not infect me. I have a great friendship with this young woman and I’m proud of her. King Solomon asks; “Who can stand before jealousy?” No one can because it’s as cruel as the grave. Celebrate the successes of others and let God show you the gifts you have to celebrate YOU…everyday.
Friday Matters
Everyday Emotional Pain
Emotional pain is harder than physical pain. Can I get an “Amen?!”
Everyday Emotional Pain
Emotional pain is harder than physical pain. Can I get an “Amen?!” I mean I get physical pain from my recovery with scoliosis back surgery and having mono and flu where I never thought I’d leave the bathroom floor. However broken relationships, the loss of a loved one, and the failure of a plan or dream, well … that kind of pain is so much harder for me.
But it helps to remember God uses pain to get our attention. C.S. Lewis wrote, “God whispers to us in our pleasure, but He shouts to us in our pain.” Pain is God’s megaphone. We rarely change when we see the light. We change when we feel the heat. But why does it get so hot? I hear ya. The answer is God’s love turns-up, it warms when it all seems so cold and hopeless. He’s always aware and He always cares. Proverbs 20:30, “Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways.” Yes, God loves you, everyday.
Thursday Matters
Everyday Airport Lady
I was in the airport waiting to board yet another plane. It was all taking too long. I sat down and realized the woman next to me was crying and shaking she was so upset.
Everyday Airport Lady
I was in the airport waiting to board yet another plane. It was all taking too long. I sat down and realized the woman next to me was crying and shaking she was so upset. I didn’t think about it; it was as natural as could be to put my hand on her back and begin rubbing it. I leaned in and asked, “What’s wrong?” The woman replied, “No hablo Ingles.” So I did the other thing that seemed natural, I prayed aloud still rubbing her back while she leaned against my shoulder. I recited the name of Jesus over and over because there’s such power in His name.
The woman stopped crying and walked on the plane. A gentleman asked if we wanted to sit together, “Oh,” I said. That’s okay, I don’t know her.” “Oh, I thought Y’all was together?” Nope. The woman departed the plane before I saw her again. This is Jesus. 2 Corinthians 1:4, “Comfort those in distress with the same comfort you’ve received from God…everyday.
Wednesday Matters
Everyday Jesus Covers
I mean honestly, when I began to really grasp what Jesus was offering me with complete forgiveness and no condemnation I could stop pretending and performing. I need Him desperately.
Everyday Jesus Covers
I mean honestly, when I began to really grasp what Jesus was offering me with complete forgiveness and no condemnation I could stop pretending and performing. I need Him desperately. It is not the “they” who are poor, sinful and lost. It’s awareness that we ourselves are the primary target.
Unless we acknowledge that we are the sinners, the sick ones and the lost sheep for whom Jesus came, we do not belong to the “blessed” who know that they are poor and inherit the Kingdom. Let’s stop trying to appear righteous before God and others. It’s a dangerous zone when get our assurance from wealth or our status. “I’m good. I have all I want.” We must realize that we’re wretchedly and pitiably poor and we’re blind and naked too. Isaiah 64 often comes to me when I think, “I’m doing really well here.” “We’re all unclean and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags. It’s His blood shed for us which cleans and covers us…everyday.
Tuesday Matters
Everyday Fully Loved
I remember a discussion with girlfriends’ right out of college and the advice was given, “Love when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely.”
Everyday Fully Loved
I remember a discussion with girlfriends’ right out of college and the advice was given, “Love when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely.” Another friend, who had been through a few relationships added, “Debbie, you become who you choose to spend the most time with. Choose wisely.” Girlfriend added, “I mean, if I line up all my ex-loves in a row, I can see the flow chart of my mental illness.” Advice taken.
In life’s journey we all want to be known and loved, and Jesus knows us better than anyone and still loves us. He knows me, my pain, my ache, my disappointments, my shame, anger at myself and the part of my heart that hasn’t fully forgiven others. He knows. HE IS here, waiting to make use of what has happened. He is always on the move. He isn’t wasting time, thinking about all the trouble He has with us or how awful we feel about where we are with ourselves and our troubles. God loves us unconditionally…everyday.
Monday Matters
Everyday Mother Teresa
It’s so much easier to point out what’s wrong with everybody else rather than look at our own junk to clean up. We all need help
Everyday Mother Teresa
It’s so much easier to point out what’s wrong with everybody else rather than look at our own junk to clean up. We all need help which is why our first step toward reconciliation is to confess our sins, receive God’s pardon and walk forward in a relationship with Jesus.
We cannot do anything to merit grace, and yet we look at someone like Mother Teresa and think surely, she entered into heaven because of what she did. If we emulate her sacrificial love in some small fashion, we are lulled into a false sense of security that persuades us that we have no need of repentance today. When the little saint humbly confessed her brokenness and her desperate need for God, either we were uncomprehending, or we secretly suspect her of false modesty. Real love, real grace, receive it and then walk forward and give the same to others…everyday.
Friday Matters
Everyday Holy God
I am thankful for God’s call on my life to love others. He hasn’t called me to hand out a rulebook or a list of “you should” and “you should nots,” which means He hasn’t called on me to point out the sins of others.
Everyday Holy God
I am thankful for God’s call on my life to love others. He hasn’t called me to hand out a rulebook or a list of “you should” and “you should nots,” which means He hasn’t called on me to point out the sins of others. He knows I have enough of my own stuff to clean up, and with His grace, how can I afford not to extend this gift to others?
I love people. I want to have fun, be real, love God and love others. But it’s also important to note that at no point does God not stop being holy. Out of His great holiness and power and might and mercy, do we then deny our own sinful desires and bow to Him. Our flesh wants what it wants and more of it. So, it’s only by God’s Holy Spirit in us that we can deny the flesh. I know the message of “sin is not in” and love always wins, but true love involves compassion with truth…everyday.
Thursday Matters
Everyday Praise in Pain
It’s bizarre. “Praise God in the pain.” What? But I’ve done this, and it works. Oh, believe me, I don’t feel like praising God, but I do it because I know I have an enemy and he doesn’t like it because it weakens him.
Everyday Praise in Pain
It’s bizarre. “Praise God in the pain.” What? But I’ve done this, and it works. Oh, believe me, I don’t feel like praising God, but I do it because I know I have an enemy and he doesn’t like it because it weakens him. Praising God’s goodness, wisdom and love during times of pain and heartache is a beautiful expression of faith in action, a living expression of trust that shows Romans 8:28 is true; “God makes all things work together for the good of those who have been called according to His will.”
I came across this little book by Dr. Robert Frost who wrote, “There is nothing more precious to God than our praise during affliction. Not praise for what the devil has done, but praise for the redeeming power of our loving heavenly Father. What He does not protect us from; He will perfect us through. There is indeed a special blessing for those who do not become offended at God during adversity. INSTEAD, we become a special blessing to Him…everyday.
Wednesday Matters
Everyday Holy Loving Savior
God is love. God is holy. Sometimes we can get out of balance with both…. too liberal in our definition of love or we become too legalistic in keeping God’s commands.
Everyday Holy Loving Savior
God is love. God is holy. Sometimes we can get out of balance with both…. too liberal in our definition of love or we become too legalistic in keeping God’s commands. Don’t miss the point; ABOVE ALL is God’s love.
We think since God has the power to do something, unless He does it, He does not love. Yet, because God is pure love, He cannot accept evil in any form. God's holiness demands consequences for sin. Today, many people want to run from consequences. The lack of teaching on true morality has lowered the bar. Sometimes we tell God; "Our sins are not so wrong. What others do is much worse." I’ve been there…done that. Ecclesiastes 12 tells us; “Everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil” will come before Him. We are all in the sinner’s club and we all need to be in the Savior’s club …everyday.
Tuesday Matters
Everyday Confess Forgive
Do you feel rejected by a friend or family member? Let me tell you...YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Everyday Confess Forgive
Do you feel rejected by a friend or family member? Let me tell you...YOU ARE NOT ALONE. James 5:16 is a verse that is helpful to apply because it says when we confess our own sin and pray for one another that we will be healed and THEN our prayers will have tremendous power. Most often I need to confess my own sin and hurt of wanting the other person to hurt because they’ve hurt me. We need to pray to see others as God sees them.
Let’s stop inserting into your head that sad CD which plays back all the hurtful things caused by broken relationships. When Jesus forgives us, He clears us of all unrighteousness. Our righteousness is not based on what we do but by knowing who we are in HIM! He asks us to forgive; not as a rule to earn favor with Him but for the purpose of being set free and reconciled.
Monday Matters
Everyday God Hook
It’s so hard when someone has hurt you and, “It’s not fair. Why is this happening to me?” I want payback now!”
Everyday God Hook
It’s so hard when someone has hurt you and, “It’s not fair. Why is this happening to me?” I want payback now!” God IS taking care of things in HIS timing. He’s God and we’re not. Romans 12:19 is the promise from God saying. “I’ll take care of it because it’s Mine to avenge.”
But you’re having a hard time waiting and you’re angry. You know God loves you, but your anger prevents you from rational thought. You’re not alone here. We’ve all been “there.” Remember too that there’s an enemy and he will use others to get us riled up and sometimes in our anger we become sinful and downright mean. Let’s try to get in the habit of asking this question to ourselves, “Have you prayed about it as much as you’ve posted about it. Relationships are the meaning of life, with God and others. I continually need God’s grace, when someone has hurt me, for me to let the person be taken off my hook and placed on His…everyday.