Wednesday, November 22, 2017

People vs plans.

I'm a planner. I like to organize what will happen when. I'm not much for being taken by surprise (although some surprises are really nice!). 

God is continually teaching me that His plan is much better than mine. He has to continually teach me because I often forget lessons learned.

This Thanksgiving/Christmas season, it's easy to become focused on what has to be done (cooking, decorating, etc) that we forget the people.

God reminded me again, yesterday, that people are more important than a timetable I created. Talking with people builds relationships and that leads to opportunities to share God's love and encourage others.

I'm learning to focus more on people and less on if the Turkey is perfect, or if the table is set with the best dishes, etc. Sometimes easy is better for all involved and then the attention can be given to those in attendance.

Think about it for a moment. What do you remember from past Holidays? I remember the silly things that happened, what we laughed about, or who was there. I can't tell you what dishes we ate off of, or how the table was set. 
Memories that are of people are the most precious. Memories created with smiles, laughter, and love last longer than the Thanksgiving turkey!

People vs plans. 
I am praying that I remember that, but if I forget, God will gently remind me again.
May your Thanksgiving be filled with opportunities to create memories with family and friends. 
Happy Thanksgiving!

Sunday, November 19, 2017

In every moment. Through every situation.

I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1
Continually: continuance as indefinite extension; perpetual
His praise shall continually be in my mouth; not the "praise" of which God is the author, but of which he is the object; which is due unto him, and is given him on account of the perfections of his nature, and the works of his hands, and the blessings of his providence and grace; this, the psalmist says, should be in his mouth: his meaning is, that he should not only retain in his heart a grateful sense of the divine favours, but should express it with his lips; should both make melody in his heart to the Lord, and vocally sing his praise; and that "continually", as long as he lived, or had any being, Psalm 146:2. (John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible)
This verse could also be translated: 
"In my mouth are His praises continually, at all times will I bless the Lord." 
I will praise the Eternal in every moment through every situation. Whenever I speak, my words will always praise Him. Psalm 34:1 (VOICE) 
I will praise the Lord no matter what happens. I will constantly speak of his glories and grace. Psalm 34:1 (TLB)
In every moment. Through every situation. At all times. Continually. 

Reasons to praise (brag about) God Almighty should be shared at every opportunity. 

What are you excited to talk about? What flows from your mouth on a continual basis? 

In every moment. Through every situation. God is worthy and due praise.