Tag Archives: God’s love

Feb14

365 Moments Of Gratitude – Thankful For A Love and Marriage Worth Fighting For, Especially Today

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Today is Valentine’s Day. There are so many things worth fighting for in life – love being paramount. Love is such a special thing – and celebrating it should take place year ’round — not just on this day. However, since today is a day in celebration of this, I wanted to talk about love a little bit.

I am truly blessed to know love. First and foremost – love from the creator of the Heavens and the Earth. To experience even a fraction of His love has enabled me to reach out and love others in a way I didn’t always even understand myself. It’s hard to reach out in love when you don’t fully grasp it yourself. God’s redeeming love is life-changing. His love has opened my eyes to see things in a different light. My marriage, for example. It isn’t perfect. (I’d like to meet the couple who says theirs is!) However, it is something worth fighting for.

Learning to reach out in love, and to see things through eyes not just my own – priceless! I think that is key – allowing yourself to look through someone else’s eyes. When you do not agree or even understand another person’s point of view, do you even attempt to see both sides of the coin? Do you want to know how or why they feel how they do? I have seen interesting things happen when I take the time – and I really mean make a concerted effort – to care enough to see both sides of the conversation. It makes a difference.

I’m thankful to God for helping me reach out in love – today and always.

Feb11

365 Moments Of Gratitude: Thankful For A Tighter Knit Radio Family

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Recently, there was an announcement from one of our local Christian radio stations. There were changes in the forecast – the very near future, actually. As part of New Life Media, there are currently three radio stations that wear the title of Family Friendly Radio: WBGL (serving the Chicagoland and surrounding areas), WCIC (Serving the Peoria, IL and surrounding areas) and WIBI (serving St. Louis, Southern and Southwestern Illinois and surrounding areas). It has been announced that the three stations have much change taking place, and an actual merge soon to happen. You see, WIBI will cease to exist as WIBI. Instead, Family Friendly WBGL and WCIC will expand their listening audiences and WIBI will merge with the two stations.

What I find great is that virtually nothing is going to change. It is, and will remain the same Family Friendly radio that so many people, myself included, have come to love and enjoy. The listeners accustomed to hearing the on-air voices of WIBI will still hear many of the same familiar (and loved) voices, but will be blessed to add a few new voices to the mix. The actual number on the dial will not change. The amazing music that meets you right where you are will remain that same positive influence.

Since this announcement was made, I have heard many people share their personal disappointment with the situation – noting that they almost feel betrayed. It is at that moment that I would like to reach out and hug them…letting them know that it IS going to be alright. It’s not as if we are losing a family member – but instead, we’re gaining more family. People (myself included at times) need to remember that change isn’t always fun or easy. It can, however, be rewarding in so many ways. As this transition is gearing up to take place, I truly love seeing the heart and passion from the on air voices, and those you don’t always hear — but who work behind the scenes to make this family of radio stations what everyone has come to know and love.

I had the opportunity to hear the New Life Media Network Director, Barry Copeland’s heart on the situation and the pending change. What he had to say blessed me in many ways. His heart for God, and his love of people is a beautiful thing. It is his desire that the listeners can see that this move won’t detract from local community involvement. Instead, he states “Our plan is to have staff being enabled to interact more with local supporters/ministries by identifying the needs, then creating opportunity for listeners to make an impact for the kingdom.” This transition, and the thought process behind it was not come to in haste. As Barry states, “All our decisions have been through the lens of the listeners. They weren’t easy to make.” Barry has invested many years of his life in this, and understands completely the emotion that accompanies such a change. He agrees that WIBI has been an amazing experience, and he believes it will continue – only with a new name. As I mentioned, this wasn’t a decision made easily, or selfishly. I will let his own words speak the volumes they did to me, “After much prayer and consult, I knew it was the right thing for the listeners and donors. It’s about them.” The heart of the matter truly is about doing what makes sense, and has the greatest overall impact with the listeners and supporters of all the stations.

I am grateful – not just because of this pending transition, but because there is leadership – from the staff / on air voices – all the way up to the network director – that truly love people. More than that, they love God, and allow His love to filter through their faith, heart, music and messages to all on the other end of the airways. I, for one, say thank you to God for each and every one who works to make this a reality. God is able to reach out, through them, to meet people exactly where they are – at exactly the right time.

As this transition takes place, I will follow up and share reflections after the actual merge has taken place.

Feb10

365 Moments Of Gratitude – Thankful For The Helmet Of Salvation

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You know what? I am thankful for a God that loves us enough to equip us with such amazing armor and weapons to be able to not only face, but also defeat the enemy! Today’s church service was entitled: SWAT: The Helmet Of Salvation.

Feb3

365 Moments Of Gratitude: Thankful For The Shield Of Faith

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Are you protected? This message is powerful, and really is important. It shares the importance of being fully protected…with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of peace and now the shield of faith. All imperative. I am thankful to God for His protection.

Jan28

Spotlight On 33 Miles – Let It Be Glory

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This new CD “Let It Be Glory” from 33 Miles has, literally, a message for anyone – any living breathing human being. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat listening, tears in my eyes, as God touches me and blesses my heart – exactly where I am, exactly when I need to hear the words. When this CD is released, you need to get your hands on a copy. If you, or if someone you know is hurting, your heart will give thanks for playing this CD. I can speak from a personal place when I say this is God’s heart poured out right here.

This song, also entitled “Let It Be Glory” is so very powerful. It speaks volumes to the hurting heart. It contains a powerful reminder to those who are struggling – who are walking through life, dealing with what may seem to be a sequence of unbearable trials. In a way hard to put in words (yet they did so beautifully) this song brings peace by explaining that you are not alone. No matter what burden you bear, there IS hope. Things may be hard, and you may not be able to see the light at the end of the virtual tunnel. You are not, however, alone. What you are going through right now will not last forever.

The biggest thing I walk away from this song knowing is that I am not alone in my struggles. In the midst of those, there is – and always will be – HOPE. No matter what I am, or will go through, God’s hand is in the midst of it. There is a reason for every tear, for every moment, for everything that is a part of my story.

God is God, no matter what. He is in control.

If this speaks to you as much as it has to me, I urge you to pick up a copy of this CD when it comes out in a few months. In the mean time, if you would like to talk about it, please don’t hesitate to post below, or send a message via my “contact me” page. I look forward to connecting with you.

Smile. You are not alone. Hope is real. Don’t ever forget how very loved you are.

To 33 Miles, you have my gratitude (again) for following after the heart of God continuously with such passion. You may never know the impact your music has on people, but never doubt the difference it makes. Your hearts and love of God and people touch and bless so many countless people, myself included. Also, never doubt how loved and appreciated you are.

Jan27

365 Moments Of Gratitude – Thankful To Have A Story To Tell

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Today at church, our pastor spoke about having a story. Each and every one of us have a story to tell. It is ours, and ours alone. The good, the bad, the beautiful and even the ugly make up who we are and the life we live. Our past, present and future comprise our story. It is this story that people will see whatever we are a witness of.

As Christians, God gives us a story. He doesn’t erase the “bad” parts and keep only the good. No! Instead, He redeems us, and allows every part of our story to share grace, hope and peace with others. The things in my life – the ups and downs, the peaceful moments and struggles alike, will be a living testimony of who Jesus is – through us.

Something I have said before, and that was mentioned today is that we are very well the only Jesus some people will ever see. As I was explaining to my husband, there are many people who do not know Jesus. They don’t attend church, and the Bible is nothing more than “just another book” in their eyes. To that person, I (as a Christian example) may very well be the only church, the only Jesus, and the only witness of who He is that they may ever know.

I want my life to be a witness of who He truly is. The life change and personal transformation I have experienced – and continue to experience every day – is something I want every living breathing human being to come to know. When people experience even a fraction of the love He has for us, life change happens.

I want to live my life in such a way that my story – my experiences in life that brought me from where I was to where I am today – speaks for itself. It is my desire that my story share the same amount of peace, grace, hope and love that was shared in such a real way with me. If anything I have been through in the course of my life (good or bad) can be used to share Him with another human being – to share grace, peace, hope and love — it will have a purpose greater than I could imagine.

I am one person, with one story – and it is with that story that I want to share gratitude and thanks to God for giving me. It’s my story. I am the only one with this story. I am thankful for my story – for all of it – for it is what has made me who I am.

Jan20

365 Moments Of Gratitude: Thankful For Children’s Ministry

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I just wanted to take a moment to share my gratitude with and for the children’s ministry at Skyline Church. This church is the real deal. Speaking of the children, the children’s ministry is so much more than a glorified babysitting service. I have been to church services before where the kids are taken care of, but don’t really walk away with anything of any substance.

At Skyline Church, I love the age-appropriate songs and lessons taught each and every week. From my youngest (four years old) to my oldest (eleven years old) there is something for everyone. It isn’t dull and boring either. They come home singing songs, and telling me about what they learned in class. At the end of the service when we come to pick them up, they never want to leave. They look forward to the songs, music, message, and any other fun games and/or crafts. It would seem like a delicate balance of learning with fun, but it really makes me thankful to be in a place that has found and gotten really good at that delicate balance.

To anyone involved in making the children’s ministry a reality, please know that what you are doing has (lasting) impact, and is much appreciated – from the children and parents alike. I know my children join me in saying thank you for all you do!

Jan14

365 Moments Of Gratitude: Thankful For Good Results

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Today was my appointment to go over the results of the tumor removal, as well as to have the stitches removed.

First, I cannot tell you how happy I was to have those removed. To hear I didn’t heal properly, and that my body clearly didn’t like sutures wasn’t awesome, but paled in comparison to the news that came next.

It was good, no make that great news. Though there was concern, it was a benign / non-cancerous tumor – officially noted to be a lipoma.

I could go on and on – but sums it all up to just say I’m grateful to a God larger than life for having me (and my health) in the palm of His hand – and for me to be able to hear the good report from my doctor this morning.

I will restate something I’ve said before, and will likely say again. God is faithful 100% of the time – it’s just whether or not we choose to believe that!

Jan12

Marriage Is Worth Fighting For, Part 4: Prayer For The Standing Husband

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Marriage is something I find myself passionate about. Being united in such a strong bond of faith and love is one of God’s many gifts to humanity. He created marriage to be a lasting, lifelong experience together – not as something to escape from when times get rough.

I do want to mention something I have said before in this marriage series. If you are divorced, or going through a divorce, I do not judge. Instead, I love. Divorce is something that sometimes happens, and is unavoidable in certain circumstances. I understand that. I do not look down on you for any decisions you have made, are going through, or have gone through in the past. Our experiences in life can either break us down, or strengthen us. I pray for your strength in the midst of this, or any other trial you may face.

Men, thank you for taking the time to read this. If you serve and have a faith in a God larger than life, I urge you to continue doing all you know to do – serve the Lord, and lead your family in His ways. If you find that your spouse is not on the same page of music you are with regards to faith, I pray you will not give up. God’s got this. I urge you to continue seeking the face and heart of God. He is faithful, 100% of the time. Even though His timing is not always our timing, it is perfect.

If you would like to share your story, or ask for prayer – please feel free to post in comments below or send me a message via my “contact me” page. I’ll look forward to connecting.

Very similar to yesterday’s prayer for the standing wife, I’d like to share the prayer for the standing husband:

Prayers For Standing Husbands

Dear Lord, You know my heart is broken, that I have a troubled spirit, and a longing for Your comfort and the answers I seek during this time of despair. So I thank You for Your Word assuring me that from the very beginning You created my marriage as a one flesh covenant relationship, saying that what You joined together, no one should separate, and that You hate divorce. And thank You for Your promise to heal my broken heart, and bind up my wounds, that You will comfort me as I mourn, and that You will bestow on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Thank You, Lord, that instead of shame or disgrace, I will rejoice in my inheritance, that I will inherit a double portion in my life, and that everlasting joy will be mine, as You restore my marriage, which Satan came to destroy. I thank You that in accordance with Your Word, I can approach Your throne of grace with confidence, and receive mercy and grace to help me in my time of need.

Thank You for Your promise that all things are possible with You Lord Jesus, and that You, and You alone, will give me peace that transcends all understanding. Thank You for the assurance that no wisdom, no insight and no plan can succeed against You. And thank You for having ________’s heart in Your hand, and for directing her heart like a watercourse wherever You please. Thank You for assuring me that she can not plan or understand her own way, because You are the one who determines and directs her steps.

Please teach me how to express my faith in love, because Your Word tells us that unfailing love is what everyone desires. And I ask You, Lord, to work in me to will and act according to Your good purpose, to make me the husband You want me to be. I believe You and I am Your disciple. I want to understand and live according to Your teachings, because then I will know the truth and the truth will set me free. Thank You for Your Word, because it is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. You are my refuge and my shield, so I put my hope in Your Word.

Since faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, please show me how to live by faith and not shrink back so You will be pleased with me, because I know it’s impossible to please You without faith. And thank You for Your promise that whatever I ask for in prayer, and believe, I will receive. Please teach me to walk by faith and not by sight, because Jesus said that according to my faith it would be done to me. So, Lord, I ask You to please give me the faith and patience necessary to inherit what You have promised.

Father, always remind me that I’m not to live by the standards of this world. And even though I live in the world, I can’t wage war as the world does. The weapons You give me to fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. They are mighty weapons that demolish the arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of You, my God, and the covenant of my marriage, so please help me take captive every thought and make it obedient to You, Christ Jesus. I will not be afraid, for You are with me. I will not be dismayed, for You are my God. Thank You for strengthening me. Thank You for helping me. Thank You for upholding me and the covenant of my marriage with Your righteous right hand. Thank You for making anyone who is incensed against me and the sanctity of my marriage as nothing; that they will be ashamed and disgraced. Thank You that anyone who contends with me or wars with me and comes to destroy or put asunder my marriage, is as nothing, as a nonexistent thing, for You, the Lord my God, hold my right hand, telling me to “Fear not, I will help You.”

Teach me to ALWAYS rest in the confidence I have in You, because Your Word tells me that it will be richly rewarded. Help me persevere so that when I have done Your will, I will receive what You have promised. And help me keep Your commandments and do the things that are pleasing in Your sight, so I’ll receive whatever I ask from You, including the restoration of my marriage.

I boldly ask for faith enabling me to speak to mountains and make them move, and the confidence and assurance that nothing is impossible for me. Thank You, Lord, that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and That with You, nothing is impossible, including living my life full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, even during this time of trouble, which You promise to turn into a gateway of hope. And thank You that Your Spirit intercedes for me, Your saint, in accordance with Your will, and that You are working all things together for my good, because I love You, and am called according to Your purpose. I thank You and praise You, Lord, that Your thoughts and plans for me and my family are thoughts and plans for our welfare and peace and not for evil, that give me hope in our final outcome. And I thank You, Lord, that I can be still and know that You are God and that You will be exalted in all the earth, and in heaven, and in the restoration of my marriage.

And thank You for the comfort of knowing that even though my wife may have other plans in her heart, from You comes the reply of the tongue, and that the Words that come out of Your mouth do not return to You empty; that they will accomplish what You desire and the purpose for which You sent them! And thank You for the assurance that You honor and uphold the covenant of our marriage that was made when You witnessed our marriage vows, and that YOU will defend it against the treachery of unfaithfulness, divorce and remarriage.

For all this I ask and give thanks in the most precious and powerful name and authority of Jesus Christ, my Lord and savior. Amen.

Jan10

Marriage Is Worth Fighting For, Part 2

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Marriage is not guaranteed to be easy. I am a living breathing testimony of this. What marriage is, however, is a union (built on love) of a man and a woman who [should] enter with the acknowledgement that they are binding two lives together as one, for better or worse, until death do they part. The truth of the matter is that we, as human beings, have a habit of allowing life to take over, and not always prioritizing the things in life that matter the most. We allow ourselves to become busy, distracted, and at times overwhelmed. In any relationship, but especially a marriage, this can be detrimental.

Another challenge in a marriage (and the primary topic of today’s post) is when a couple does not share the same faith. Maybe I should have said the same level of faith. I’m not talking when one spouse is Baptist, and the other Methodist. I’m more talking about when one spouse has faith, and puts their trust in God – and relies on His guidance for their life and their family — all the while the other spouse has not come to know the same faith in God. As you may imagine, this can put stress or strain on a relationship. When one half of the equation does not equal the other half, confusion will occur. Things may be very clear to the believing spouse, and the non-believing spouse may just not get it. (Whatever the “it” is in the equation.) In such cases, frustration ensues.

If a person is not grounded in faith, it may be difficult for them to maintain the same morals and values their believing spouse has. What may be especially difficult in the relationship if both go into the marriage as being non-actively believing and then one spouse comes to know Jesus. The one non-believing spouse may now feel alienated, wondering why things have to change. They may liken a new faith in Christ to a negative connotation because it is something they do not understand.

As is with anything unsure or not understood, they may even resort to abusive behavior – physical or mental. This is not okay, and should not be tolerated. If you are ever, or know anyone in this situation, please seek help. At a bare minimum, seek marriage counseling, and if warranted, seek emergency services. Your physical health and your life are more important. Even in the midst of these extreme situations, God is capable of bringing healing and restoration. God’s healing hand reaches out, and can touch even the hardest of hearts.

The entire thought process I’m trying to explain in further detail is that it’s imperative that two people in any relationship, especially a marriage be on the same page. Two lives form as one. If on different wavelengths, things will not work well. Keep your eyes focused on Jesus, and Jesus at the center of your relationship.

If you are in a marriage where your spouse does not share the same (or any) faith as you, not all hope is lost. Again, for the sake of this blog post, I will continue with part 3 soon.

Know this, friends – if you are reading this and can identify with any part of it, you have my prayers and encouragement. Do not hesitate to contact me by leaving a comment or my “contact me” page. I will be happy to listen, talk and pray with you. This is not something you need or have to walk through alone. Be blessed, and know that hope is real…and it is for you!