#64 TO SEE...OR NOT TO SEE

How do we check to see if our eye glasses need cleaning?
We hold them up to the light.  Hello....
Does that remind us of something?
LIGHT...EXPOSES...Darkness!


Sometimes we think our glasses are clean
Yet when held to the light it is a different story.
So it is in other areas of our lives
When we view from the brightness of God's Word.


This is not one of those poems that rhymes
But it is a poem with substance so read on.
I am not the only one that has to grow
Nor am I the only one who wears glasses.


Have you ever cleaned your glasses
Put them back on, only to discover
There is a spot you did not see.
I have, many times.


Have you ever been speaking with someone
And got distracted because their lenses were so dirty?
Come on....admit it....kinda makes you wonder
If they are that blind or don't care...


Do you see wrong doing in lives of others
Yet not see it in self?
Do you purposefully check periodically
In your desire to have a pure heart?


It is one thing to use a light bulb to expose darkness.
It is another thing to use the Word of God.
It is a living word. a sharp two edged sword
Dividing asunder the joints and marrow. Heb.4:12


If you do not wear glasses you are not off the hook.
You too need to do a spot check with the Word.
"God is no respecter of persons." Acts 10:34
Bottom line...


Okay, I don't think I have to belabor the fact
That we will see ourselves when we read the Bible.
God will reveal to us what the image is we project.
Is it of Him, or is it tainted, marred, even a little?

If He shows us something it is to help us
As we continue to raise the bar higher.
He exposes darkness and shows us how to do right.
Then we will increasingly be a bright light.  


So when you clean your glasses, or sun shades
I do pray this seed that got planted
Will be recalled and you will ask the Holy Spirit
To teach, help, restore, as "in Christ" you decrease
And He becomes MORE!!



John 3:30 "He must increase, but I must decrease." 
1John 1:5..."God is light and in him is no darkness at all."  In fact, not even a shadow because there is no darkness in Him.




 Written By: Linda Lou Jones
                      PS.45:1"My tongue is the pen
                      of a ready writer."
                      Glory To God

#63  SOW OR NO...7 THOUGHTS 'N MORE 

With purse on one arm, groceries in both hands and a bus pass as well, a man approached me quickly.  The bus was approaching as well.  He asked me for $2.00; looked into my eyes with desperation, was about sixty years of age.  I had seen him in that area before, but did not know him.  There was no time to dig for change as the bus arrived right then.  I shook my head no; instantly discerned his anger as I boarded the bus safely; not without being affected though.  Spiritual battle and Christians must be instant in season and out of season.  This was one of those opportunities.

Many thoughts raced through my mind.  The first one was that how I treat the poor is how Jesus will treat me.  Second thought was what if he wants it to buy booze, do I help him?  Third thought...I am not responsible for what he does after I give it.  When I give, I sow and do so with no strings attached.  It is not my place to tell him what to do with it.  Fourth thought, I will not feel guilty because there was literally no time to open my purse as the bus arrived right at that moment.  Fifth thought, why did he target me specifically?  Sixth thought, maybe he targeted the others before I arrived.  Seventh thought, Lord, I feel sorry for him, would like to help, but can not help every person that begs.  If I give money, I want to witness to the person for sure, about You.   

When I arrived home my heart was hurting.  I felt like crying because that man really wanted money, yet I also realized he did not ask for one, but two dollars.  The amount I give, if I do, is my decision.  Hmmm, is that pride kicking in?  Since this is not the first encounter with someone asking for money in the past week I need to find out how God wants me to handle this.  There was also the possibility that the person may get angry if I say no, and I do not want to be put in a position of danger, nor do I want to allow manipulation.  Some people give quickly and go on their way, as if they think nothing of it.  I look at it differently.

When I give money, I am sowing seed, and my harvest is contingent on the condition of the soil.  If it is not fertile there will not be a harvest from God, through whomever He chooses to use to manifest that harvest.  No expectation robs the seed of faith and the seed will not multiply.  It becomes barren.  I can not please God without Faith.  Yet I learned that sowing down...initiates good health....God's promise to me in PS. 41:1-3.  In fact, read PS.41: Msg "
   
^1-3Dignify those who are down on their luck; you'll feel good—that's what God does.    God looks after us all, makes us robust with life—   Lucky to be in the land, we're free from enemy worries.  Whenever we're sick and in bed,     God becomes our nurse, nurses us back to health.

My heart wants to give because I do love people, and want to help.  Yet to give fish, but never teach a person "how to fish" would not be doing the person a favor.   It would be doing the person an injustice.   Also, there is a bigger picture to this than whether to sow or not.  In the midst of trying to be led by the Holy Spirit I found myself wondering why the person is in such a state, does he try to get work; is he employable, ill, educated, where is family, what are the circumstances?  How is he dressed this well if he has no money?  Where does he live?  The questions continue to surface as does the question:  What would Jesus do?  

Obviously this is an area the Lord wants to help me with or I would not be so stirred.  It is one thing to give a gift.  It is another thing to be asked for a gift.  When I bring God's viewpoint into play, the picture looks a whole lot different because when we see God's viewpoint... wisdom also is seen.  (That is a point worth noting.) 

For example, I am a woman alone, a senior, changing buses; and for a complete stranger to approach me face to face as that man did was bold of him.  It also was out of order.  For him to approach a man the same way would be different and done differently too, because I am sure he would not have been so close to a man's face!  Yet that is not what happened.  He was targeting my emotions and that is manipulation.  I can not stand manipulation and recognize it easily.  Consequently, my thoughts turn to the fact that it is not a coincidence that the bus arrived at that very moment.  God's provision for me to depart safely.  He is faithful. (PS.91)

Other people around me did not say a word to the man, and their lack of support of me as a woman alone was noticed by me.  Too often people look but do not want to get involved.  Fear is at the root of their decision.  My trust is not in them, but in God; so I stay connected to the Source of my safety.  His Voice is supreme to me and brings comfort no stranger or friend can bring...His tone instantly soothes my entire inner being, causing me to immediately be more at ease.  His precious presence was strong as I sat on that bus on the way home and I was thankful.  I just knew we were going to have a little talk about this issue.  Fear was knocking, but I kept the door shut!  Thankfully!!  (Wise Mentors in my life.) 2Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind."

People begging for money was becoming an issue because it kept surfacing.  Day or evening someone somewhere was begging for money, male and female.  Mostly male though.  When someone is desperate it can put you in a dangerous situation, not knowing how they will react if you are the fiftieth one that says no that day! Who is the one that is like the straw that breaks the camel's back?  Not a positive thought, but one has to be street wise and this is pretty basic.  I was learning and needed answers because these encounters were increasing and the boldness of some individuals was more than astounding!

Once I was waiting for the bus with a shopping bag of heavy groceries.  Rather than hold the groceries while waiting I simply rested the bag on my foot and kept the bag upright while waiting.  Just as I was about to take three steps to get on the bus a man asked if he could carry it for me.  He was with all of us, getting on the bus also.  So I was grateful for a gentleman to help, and got on the bus, he followed me with the groceries. I showed my bus pass, sat in first seat, looked up and he was setting groceries on floor near me. 

His next action totally caught me off guard.  As he was leaned over inches from my face to set the groceries at my feet he said, "Could I have $2.00"  I thought he was being a gentleman and was getting the bus also.  Instantly I saw who I assumed was a gentlemen...exposed as a man with an ulterior motive and it enraged me.  I hate deceit.  For a flash of a second I would have liked to bop him in the nose for doing that!  BUT GOD.....helped me crucify the flesh.

My gloves were on, purse over arm as I sat, more grocery bags on my lap and people trying to board the bus in the midst of the congestion he caused.  It was exasperating because any change I did have was buried and inconvenient to retrieve.  I was trying not to feel guilty while trying NOT...to be upset with him as I did not know his entire situation.  In my somewhat flustered state I said, "I do volunteer work."   My intention was to teach him that he could sow seed and do the same somewhere, but I think he heard it as meaning: "I don't have...any money to give you."  He left the bus.  The door closed and the driver drove.  Then I wondered where the man wanted to go on the bus.... 

I was kicking myself for not carrying my own groceries.  In fact, I started thanking God that the man didn't turn around and just depart with the bag as he left the bus!  I never did like that saying..."How to get in trouble without even trying"....but must admit it came to mind at this time.  It was not comforting... and I am pretty sure my eyes were shooting sparks as I sat on that bus homeward bound, because I was stirred! 

How about some feedback from blog readers please?  How do you handle this kind of confrontation?  I pray for discernment and God keeps me safe always, yet only once did I give money to one man near a grocery store....AFTER....ministering to him the Word of God, and praying for him.  I never saw him at that spot again in the following year either.  At least I knew I would not have his blood on my hands.  Yet time is often of the essence too.

So rather than give some quick religious answer...(I refuse to go that route)....help me out please.  Your comments can be read by everyone, and although our experiences surely differ....is there a general rule of thumb you use to deal with this kind of thing?  I put the ball in your court and ask you to help me out...  Share what you have learned.....from the Lord with regard to sowing or not sowing in such situations.  I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.      

If you have any trouble sending a comment, notify me on Twitter:  rightlady7.  Thanks.  God Bless You and please don't be shy... I see this as opportunity for the body of Christ to work together.  One does not have all the answers.  Teamwork is a 'God' thing! :)) Keep in mind remarks are seen globally and I pray your reply will bring glory to God as you share what He ...taught... you!  Thanks again.  


P.S.  Did you notice this post shows the mentor in me as well as the protege...:))  I am a work in progress, praise the Lord!!  We don't have to 'arrive'....then 'be used'.  Rather, we make ourselves available and He uses us in the process of it all.  He truly is Amazing.  Glory to God!



P.P.S.:  Bottom Line for me is to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit...be led by Him.

Written By:  Linda Lou Jones
                       PS.45:1 My Tongue is the pen
                       of a ready writer.
                       Glory To God 
                                                 


      

#62  Isaac Was No Dummy

 Isaac was no dummy.  Gen. 22:7-10...Isaac said, "Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?"  Verse :8 And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together, And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an alter there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the alter upon the wood.  And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son."

Isaac loved and trusted his father.  Can you imagine what his thoughts were when his father bound him and laid him on the altar?  Was he fearful?  Was his heart broken? Did he cry out with questions? Did he feel betrayed?  Was trust shattered in that moment?  When he saw the knife raised in Abraham's hand did he focus on the knife or on Abraham's eyes?  Did he squint his eyes shut?  It is a moment that is not defined in detail....we are left to ponder...

Conversely, when Abraham bound his son Isaac, was Abraham's heart breaking with each cord?  Were there tears in his eyes as he prepared to slay his son whom he loved?  Did Abraham feel God let him down when he did not yet see a lamb provided for a burnt offering?  When Abraham placed the knife in his hand and raised his arm was he trembling with emotions raging?  Did part of Abraham die when he raised that knife, knowing his son was about to die? 

Two people, a father and a son, both with broken hearts, one likely feeling betrayed by his father; the other feeling betrayed by God, yet obedience to God was also part of the equation.  Ultimate obedience indeed.  Is God an on time God?  Did God test Abraham's faith to the inth degree?  Did Abraham pass the test?  Does God have a purpose in every trial?  Does God know the end from the beginning?  Does God see the big picture?  

Genesis 22:11-13 "And the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven, and said, Abraham, Abraham: and he said, Here am I.  And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.  And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son."

Notice:  the ram caught in a thicket by his horns: was behind Abraham.  He did not see the ram, the provision of God, until the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven and told him not to lay his hand upon Isaac.  Abraham had faith, but when  circumstances from his viewpoint, from his perspective appeared to let him down, he did not let God down. He was prepared to follow through with the instruction God gave him.  

Sometimes, in life, when our heart is breaking the most, that is when we are asked to do the most difficult thing...we can not do it without the grace of God.  We can not do it without hearing the voice of the Lord.  We can not do it without faith.  We can...do all things through Christ.  

Do you think Abraham thought God was a bit late with His provision?  Do you think Abraham learned that sometimes God does things last minute...yet He is never late?  Do you think Abraham and Isaac....both had opportunity for their faith to grow?  

What was Isaac thinking when Abraham loosed him from the altar?

Did they embrace each other joyfully?  Was Isaac slow to reach out after feeling he had been betrayed? Did Abraham wonder if Isaac would lash out at him in anger?  Could trust be restored? Would trust be restored?  

After pondering over Abraham and Isaac's scenario, it helps me to trust God when circumstances appear to be at a standstill.  I know that I know that sometime, somehow, somewhere... God will intervene on my behalf.  It may be that the answer is right behind me, as it was for Abraham, but there will be an answer.  God is no respecter of persons.  I remind myself of this often.  It is part of how I encourage myself in the Lord.  He rules.  Not circumstances.  My faith and trust is in Him so with peace in my heart as my umpire, I stay steady and unwavering like a tall palm tree that remains fixed; not uprooted in the storms of life.  My God can not fail.  He does not change, thankfully.  

The Word of God, the Bible, has the answer to every problem we face.  I pray these words you just read will help you be encouraged in your present situation because God has answers for you in His Word.  Just as Isaac was no dummy, keep the Word of God in you, and you too will not be a dummy.  The same God will see you through every trial too....successfully!      

P.S.  I looked up definition of the word 'dummy':  An imitation of a real or original object, intended to be used as a practical substitute. WOW.  Jesus was led as a lamb to the slaughter yet he opened not his mouth.  There is no end to this... dig for revelation.  I am too. Praise the Lord!   

#61  Investing In You!!

One house worth hundreds of thousands of dollars

Made a clear statement by its exterior appearance.

Leaves so beauiful

Covered the grass like a blanket of love

Yet several trees had not been pruned.

The many windows were covered in dust

From traffic that passed by that corner.

It looked cluttered, in pain, ouchy.

In my minds eye I could see

The transformation possible

If someone who Cared...

Chose to transform that home.

I saw windows sparkling in the sun.

I saw leaves raked away out of sight.

I saw trees pruned, shrubs trimed,

Fences pained anew

And a "Welcome" mat out too.

Some flowers by the enrance

Smiling at whoever entered.

And that is only the exterior.

As for the interior, I've not seen it

So I can only Imagine

The heaviness and oppression inside.

The house is like many people

Living in despondency and without hope.

Days passing by into months and years

As they exist heartlessly.

When Jesus is invited in accordingly

And a person responds

There is an inner transformation

Which will be reflected

By the interior.

 I know

Because it happened to me.

Now my eyes shine and twinkle

With the new life he gave me.

The new zeal, the love, peace and joy.

                              It is because my mind

Got transformed with the Word.

The more my mind got renewed

As my thinking lines up with the Word

I am receiving the mind of Christ.

Old things are passed away.

The joy of the Lord

Gives me strength, uncommon energy.

The Passion of Christ consumes me

Giving me Compassion for all.

This body is a temple.

A house for God to reside in.

It is kept clean, like a house.

The Fireplace spreads warmth

And welcome to all.

There is a fragrant anointing

Permeating wall to wall.

I do not ever want to be

Like that house unkept,

Dull and lifeless throughout.

I want my life to count

So with the love and wisdom

God has given me

I purpose to make a difference

For His glory.

As I write this I pray

All who read it

Will check your reflection.

Do you reflect Jesus?

Does our home reflect His Presence?

These are my thoughts

As I sit in the warm sun 'n fresh air

On a bench on the porch

Of the Nail Salon In Toronto.

Time not wasted.

I'm Investing In You!! :))

Written By: Linda Lou Jones

PS.45:1 My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

Glory To God

#60 VIOLATION, VENGEANCE, VICTORY

 

It would be so nice NOT..... to have to write this tonight!  Thy will be done...Lord...means exactly that, so here goes.  Usually I have victory in my spirit,THEN...I write about something I learned.  Tonight I have to write about an hour after I discovered something that was extremely annoying and painful to my spirit.

Bottom Line:  My winter clothes have been stolen, they are gone! When home...is not a safe place...even though doors are locked...as was the case here...it is an opportunity to help others see that sometimes the so-called snake is already IN..... the foxhole!!  So I am using this incident as a wake-up call for others.  Hopefully, you will prevent any violation occurring whether it be to self, others, or things. Forewarned is forearmed.   Don't look FOR trouble, rather be wise, alert, safe, always.

  

As for me, when the Holy Spirit revealed how it happened my energy plummeted. I had been struck by the enemy through someone under the same roof.  I hate deception, and I hate theft.  It is a violation, a deep wound to the spirit.  Crying won't help, yet the pain is real and deep.  

Let's check God's perspective.  He sees when you take time to sow seeds of love, patience, kindness, to someone.  He hears when you share testimony.  Your behavior is pleasing to the Lord.  Nevertheless, it does not mean you never get attacked by demonic activity.  

How I respond to deception, theft, slither, violations, betrayal, is up to me.  I can choose to crucify the flesh and stand on the Word of God for restoration. (I like that word “Restoration” more and more.) Another response could be to email the thief, confront, yell, get angry, cry, let emotions rule, and that changes nothing...except permeate the atmosphere with negative energy and possibly release a bit of steam.

  

A thief knows he/she is a thief.  They do not have to be told.  A thief chooses his/her behavior with each theft that occurs.  It very likely increases if they are not caught.  Their mind tells them they can do this and get away with it...but that is deception.  It is how the enemy works...through deception.  The socalled treadmill increases in speed and the bondage intensifies until sooner or later arrest occurs.

 

My reaction was to release some tears because theft is a deep wound to the spirit. It is a violation.  Theft hurts.  Then I experienced some anger at the thief as well as at self for allowing such a thing to happen.  Yet my bedroom door was locked...so it didn't take long to stop condemning myself.  It is a lock very easy to open. You would think your home would be a safe place.  The safest!! Not necessarily true so this is a 'head's up' to everyone.

I pray the Holy Spirit shows each reader if there is any violation, or potential violation that they need to be aware of, or take measures to prevent.  Listen deep within and let him minister to you. Not only potential loss of material things but violation of any kind that you are unaware of...I pray it be revealed to you now. It may involve someone else in your home who needs you to intervene.

Violation can cover a large area. I won't go there. Suffice to say God can show you what you need to know....give you eyes to see spiritually.  Even if it is only one person it will be worth this time writing because protection may be needed by someone. Don't go into denial, deal with whatever the Holy Spirit reveals to you...with His help. He is your helper, comforter, friend. Talk with him...he will advise.

My decision has been to lay down the entire violation, and stand on the Word that tells me the enemy has been found, the thief has been caught and he has to restore seven fold so I told him that in the Name of Jesus.  No matter who the impure vessel is that the enemy used....the important thing is to take authority spiritually.  I did.  Now I can praise and thank God in advance for restoration because the Word Works. Faith pleases God too.

  I am glad nothing is hid from God, and when it comes to vengeance, He does it best!  I leave that in His capable hands and know when He turns things around the thief will know God has accomplished vengeance. 

To be offended and hang onto the hurt pulls my spirit down.  When I decided to forgive, pray for my enemy, believe for restoration of all that was stolen, I stay FREE.  Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.    

Yes, bad things happen to good people.  How good people respond reveals what or 'Who' is on the inside.  A tree is known by its fruit.  Has anyone stolen from you?  What kind of fruit are you producing?  The decision is yours.  I pray you make a wise decision...with God's help.  Stay free of offense and you will be more effective in the Kingdom of God.  Love Never Fails. 

(FYI: This happened in the past, but needs to be shared now.)  

#59.  TOUCHED MY HEART

One tweet only....several words of testimony soaked into my heart like rain on prepared soil.  An appreciative thankful "Mom" had tweeted:

"I love that My 23 y/o still calls me Mommy my 

17y/o still sits on my lap & my 14 y/o son still 

kisses me Good bye...."

Something deep within my heart welled up as I read those beautiful words that painted pictures of deep love, bonding, and mutual admiration.  Of course my thoughts went to my own children, now fully grown with children of their own.  Although I know not to compare, it was difficult not to do so.  I have not seen my grandchildren for several years now though they live under a hundred miles away.  When people learn this truth their first question is, "Why?"

I give my response, then have to deal with either their pity or receive some compassion.  Yet the void within....the empty arms, the empty lap, the lack of photographs of family, the incredible lack of cherished memories, family gatherings, times of laughter and fun, all suddenly seem too much to bear.  Although on a daily basis with God's help I cope quite well, because His grace is sufficient. 

He has taught me that I am not responsible for the opinions of others.  I am responsible for my own actions, reactions, words, etc.  Consequently, it is with the utmost of respect that I have sought wisdom from God so as to know how to handle this 'lack of family connection' in an effective way.  Tears stream now as I allow myself to release some of the disappointments because of these "empty years".  Empty with regard to "family" ...whether it be a child running with open arms reaching for a hug; a child running to me with a report card after another successful year; a birthday celebration with cake, candles, gifts, lots of smiles, friends,  summer outings, hockey games, swimming, not to mention times of one on one where I can impart some of the wisdom God has given me.....  Truth is, not all families have such memories...mine are empty of such outings, and treasured one on one conversations.  Flat out EMPTY.

You see, not everyone gets together with family just because they have family members.  Sometimes they are separated geographically, yes, but sometimes it is because the children do not consider time with parents when they plan their priorities.  Time spent in the hockey arenas takes priority, or it is simply not convenient to go visit them.  If parents don't have a car it is even more detrimental to the relationship because it means the kids can't sit home and just wait for them to visit.  It means picking them up, or inviting them and waiting for the bus to bring them.  Much easier to do nothing which is making a decision to reject.  I know because it happened to me.

 After two years of crying the Holy Spirit helped me to see a different perspective and I was set free.  Free from condemnation, because it is only natural to blame yourself as you wonder why such a thing would happen.  Also I was set free from taking the rejection personally.  Not only did the Holy Spirit speak to me clearly and tell me it is Christ in me that is being rejected and I am not to take it personally, he told me to leave them be and move forward with him.  Then he told me I really am not leaving them, they already left me by their refusal to grant time in their presence...in me leaving now, it simply meant I was moving forward, finally.  Moving forward 'In Christ'.... a "MUST DO"!

When I released my two children and four grandchildren and moved forward in obedience to the Holy Spirit, the burden lifted and the tears stopped.  He healed my heart and helped me to move forward.  I can honestly tell you that when it was their birthday I did not sit home and cry or feel sorry for myself because I was not celebrating with them.  My focus was on what God's plan was for me that day.

There was a time when I would mail a card with money but I decided I do not want to be known as the Grandma that sends money.  I want a relationship where I can look into my children, and my grandchildren's faces....a relationship whereby I can impart wisdom God gave me.  Not preach at them, but deposit everything the Holy Spirit tells me to say.  I have been robbed of doing that and although I led the oldest of my four grandchildren to the Lord, it is a heartache to know the others are not in church, nor are their parents, although the parents are born again.  I pray.  Many Grandmother's can do that quite well...

My perspective is more extreme than many because of not seeing family...  Yet, when I learn of a family where there is a missing child, I have compassion; or a family grieving over an accident victim...compassion rises up.  Also if I hear someone is in prison.  Why? Because I know the pain of "gone; empty; void; rejection; dishonor; condemnation; dysfunctional family; call it what you will, it hurts bad!  

Noone can live with such pain and not reach out for help.  Thankfully I reached out to God and He gave me a reason for living and healed my broken shattered heart.  In fact, He has done so many times.  I wrote a song stating that God 'Specializes'....'in healing broken hearts'.  I know because He has healed mine so many times.  Thank God I did not turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism.  God has blessed me beyond words can say to show appreciation.

It is one thing for children not to honor their parents.  It is another thing if the parents go the wrong direction in an effort to silence the inner pain and heartache.  Two wrongs don't make a right.  It is not flesh and blood I am fighting....but spiritual wickedness in high places.  The Bible tells me so and I believe the Word of God.  It is only because of Jesus Christ that I have been able to have joy within regularly even though many lives are in array.  My faith is in Him and since God honors His Word I continue to proclaim restoration of family to the glory of God.  There are a lot of hurting people in this world.  I choose to be one of the 'healed'.  It IS possible because Jesus lives!!  He touches my heart daily, without fail.  He can touch your heart too.  Ask Jesus to touch you right now....  He will. 


This is of course not the most cheerful blog, but it is gut wrenchingly true and there are people out there God will bring to read it that need to see this perspective.  You need to read this to help you rise above your adverse circumstances.  Recognize how the enemy has attacked your family and realize they are not the enemy!  I pray God helps you learn how to rise above all adversity, forgive, forgive, and forgive some more.  Leave vengeance in His hands.  He does a good job, better than your best so I urge you to trust Him.  


Not only forgive, but move forward.  Do not sit idle, complacent, rise up from mediocrity as you take charge of your life again.  Victims need not remain victims.  The decision is yours.  You are not in it alone, the hand of the Lord Jesus Christ is reaching out to you with love and compassion.  Reach back with confidence in him....faith in the God that created you.  If anyone knows how to turn things around and work it together for your good as well, God does.  (Romans 8:28)

For the Dad's and Mom's who find it difficult packing those lunches for kids, figuring out what to buy that they will eat....what clothes to buy that they will wear willingly....how to discipline effectively....how to make ends meet.....how to help with homework, projects, etc.... not to mention the temptations students encounter at school.... be glad for the opportunities you have every single day to impart to those children.  As you wipe fingerprints away be thankful to have seen them.  Some day the windows may stay shiny and clean....minus the memories...so rejoice in the midst of all the business and know that you ARE making a difference in the lives of 'people' who God has an incredible plan for...each one of them in fact.  Persevere, it will be worth it all on graduation day, etc.   Not to mention when you cross the finish line to Heaven and hear:  "Well done...".  Your daily investments are kept track of by God... :-)))


By now you know my blogs are not daily...rather they are triggered at all hours.  It is 2:50 a.m. and God is not letting me go to bed until I get this one posted so it is thrilling for me to know someone will receive help.  Any suffering I go through is never in vain when my trust is in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Same goes for you so get eyes off self, and back on Jesus.  He will see you through too.  If you are waiting for restoration of family, wait with expectation, faith, and simultaneously move forward in Christ.  It is a:  MUST DO.  No fence sitting while waiting.  Laborers are few.  Ask God where He wants to use you.  He talks, He will tell you and confirm it.  Be blessed and be obedient.  God honors obedience and is faithful always.  Pray too... It works!!
Not necessarily when....you think, but the Holy Spirit IS doing a work in the hearts of those you pray for.  Read Galatians 6:9 "Let us not be weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap if we faint not."  God bless you.

P.S.  To the lady who posted the tweet that God used to trigger this post....thank you because your tweet inspired more hope that there ARE families that live as such.  The picture your words painted was inspiring indeed.  Thank you.  Glory to God. He is doing a work in all of us.  Smile...you've been touched by God, and me...I am going to sleep now...total peace that passes all understanding.  Thank God...He is sooooooo good.  Always and Forever!!



Written By: Linda Lou Jones
                      PS.45:1 My tongue is the pen
                      of a ready writer.
                      Glory to God

#58  KICK IT UP A NOTCH CHURCH

It is One Thing to Make It To Heaven.  It is Another Thing to live a victorious life daily.  Jesus paid the price for everyone to have abundant life (John 10:10); a life of fullness in every sense of the word.  He is our example.  If anyone can produce good fruit it is Jesus Christ.  Since he is our example we are to produce good fruit also.  Do we?  Do we on a daily basis?  Do we even check the fruit in our lives periodically and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what we need to know. 

Note:  If we are raising the bar daily as taught by Dr. Mike Murdock and other  mentors; and exemplified in their lives; we will be doing a lot more than an inner search with the help of the Holy Spirit.  Being led by the Holy Spirit is a daily challenge.  He is our teacher and will help us.  Yet we are accountable to him to establish the changes in our lives that he requires.  He won’t change.  He does not have to change.  We do.  Bottom line…we are not yet perfected, we are in the process as our mind continues to be renewed with the Word of God. 

The more our mindsets line up with the Word of God the better able we are to live a life of victory.  Live a life whereby we daily look forward to seeing the hand of the Lord at work on our behalf.  When we have eyes to recognize this happening life becomes exciting.  We are expectant, exuberant, exhilarated, as the joy of the Lord floods our soul, our innermost being.  The soul: our mind, will, and emotions. 

Unfortunately many Christians do not recognize the hand of the Lord at work on their behalf.  Consequently, for them life is not full of joy.  Furthermore it has been my experience that when many of them witness someone with much joy, they become aggravated.  They recognize fruit that is not in their life and often become jealous, or accusatory.  Neither stand, benefits anyone.  An unhappy person can resent a happy person.  Do not let the enemy use such a person to stomp on your joy.  Resist negativity.

If a “Reacher” becomes determined to get some of that joy, he/she can easily have some as well!  There is an abundant supply.  So if you happen to be one of the non-joyous souls, chin up….you CAN be.  “With God all things are possible.”  “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”  You need joy and your desire to have joy is from God.  It is His desire for you as well.  So how do you achieve this victory?

Get mad at the enemy.  Get mad at mediocrity, lukewarmness, sameness, and do something different if you expect different results.  My heart is stirred because I am encountering more and more Christians with less and less joy and it is grievous to me that they are so robbed.   If you read or hear my recent testimony of God opening the windows of heaven and blessing me by doubling my income, and more…. you could say it is easy for me to have joy.  May I remind you…with love, you don’t walk in my shoes; having joy is a decision I made and do my best to maintain a high level of joy with God’s help.  I spent too many years not smiling, without joy.  God turned things around when I obeyed His instructions. 

The truth is, prior to my recent blessing, I had the joy of the Lord on a regular basis.  I am a Senior, and to the glory of God a University Student was astounded at the strength and joy that I have even on the hottest of days this summer.  She was dragged out, tired on a daily basis, no energy.  I have much energy and for that I give God glory.  It is one thing to recognize a difference in someone’s life.  It is another thing to do something about it so that what you admire can become part of your life.  Allow me to help you see spiritually.

Rather than just go your own way, same ol’ same ol’ I encourage you to get stirred up enough to do something about your lack of joy.  If someone steals from you, do you get upset?  I would expect so.  Well be equally upset over your joy being stole because as Dr. Jerry Savelle’s books states:  “If the enemy can steal your joy He can get your goods!”

It is up to you to get with it, take authority spiritually.  Decide that “Enough is Enough”.  Instead of living a hum drum, boring life, half hearted about all you do, get out of that mindset and recognize how you have been deceived by thinking things can’t change or won’t ever be better for you.  Those are lies of the enemy, the father of lies.  Rebuke them.  Those words are sharp arrows to your mind which is the battleground.  When you use you shield of faith and resist those thoughts that come, your mind will be protected and you will definitely see and feel a huge difference….for the better!  The decision is yours.    

“We wrestle not against flesh and blood.”  It is a spiritual battle.  When joy gets smothered by words of defeat, lies that condemn; in time this weighs you down until you feel listless, tired all the time as the oppression takes hold.  Put a stop to it.  Bottom line….Jesus gave you the power over the enemy, satan.  He told everyone to take dominion over the enemy, put him under our feet.  Don’t wait for God to do it.  Too many people are sitting around complacently waiting for God to DO something.  Dhaaaaah.  He did all He is going to do when He sent His Son…John 3:16.  Jesus Christ paid the price on Calvary when he took the keys to the Kingdom of God back from the devil.  Now you have those keys and a responsibility to use them.  I am sounding the trumpet:  “Wake up church”.  Too much has been lost because of the body of Christ not using those keys.

You can kick oppression, depression, listlessness, the weights and cares of this world….right out of your life, out of your home by taking spiritual authority.  When is the last time you cleansed your home spiritually? You clean house regularly.  What about spiritually, whether it is one person or several that live there, this is a wise thing to do.  Anoint each entry and exit with oil, pray over those entries, cover your home in the blood of Jesus and everyone that is ever… in your home; as well as every ….thing….. that is in your home.  Pray only those God wants there will come in….others will be redirected and blocked from entry as you are protected.  “Safety is of the Lord.”  Despatch angels to guard your property, surround the perimeter. 

               

Take authority over any evil demonic spirits that are lurking in the home.  Rebuke them in the name of Jesus and evict them from your home as you would an intruder.  Just because you can not see them, does not mean nothing happens when you pray accordingly.  It is important, just as important as it is to keep your home clean and orderly.  No clutter.  God is a God of order.  Besides, your home is a reflection of you.  Hmmmmm.  (Yeah, or ouch.)

One thing that might help inspire you to either keep things in order, or to begin to do so and remove clutter is with this image.  Imagine Jesus coming to your door.  If you saw him in a natural body, what would you do?  What changes would you want to make?    Can his presence be felt when people enter your home?  Does your home have anything in it that you would not want Jesus to see?  Get rid of it now.  That is an area the enemy has got an opening where he can increase it subtly without your knowledge like a pie wedge that increases, so do something about it now.  Your life is a result of decisions you make.  Do not blame anyone else. 

If you are married, become a team doing this together and see the power of God be magnified in your life as you experience this:  “one puts to flight one thousand; two put to flight ten thousand”.  If you are single, Jesus is your spiritual mate so invite his help as you proceed.  We need to believe what the Word of God says.  That is all there is to it, and when we do, these are things we will be doing on a regular basis.  Not only that, we will be able to help others see spiritually, and get their lives and homes in order.  Seeing Jesus at work in your life daily is Tremendously Inspiring!!

How great does it feel when you walk into a living room that has just been vacuumed, everything dusted, clean, windows sparkly clean, not a crease anywhere, no spots or stains, fingerprints, etc?  You feel refreshed to step into a room where things are in order.  Your mind grabs the peace and pleasure when you survey your home and this is what you find.  Confusion is gone and your prayers of clarity result in more than one breakthrough.  In ten minutes you can do these things and I recommend following the cleansing with a time of praise and worship unto the Lord Jesus Christ.  How pleased he must be when His Children are obedient and his suffering was not in vain.  The blood he shed was not in vain.  Laying down his life for you and I, was not in vain.  Nothing he did was in vain.  Obedience to the Word of God always benefits you.  Always, and God honors obedience.  You are doing yourself a favour when you obey God.

Okay, this is what was on my heart tonight.  Heaven only knows just what I will do with it because it is surely too long for a blog.  I wrote it nonstop and can hardly get the words out fast enough.  It just tells me that the Lord Jesus Christ wants us ALL to live in victory, wants us to have joy, strength, a sense of well being, satisfaction, deep inner peace as well as a home where he is welcome all the time.  Also, a heart where he is also dwelling….not coming and going because the welcome mat is removed on occasion.  Dwelling!  So please take charge in your homes because it is for your own good and that of anyone else that lives there, or visits. 

These things you do are not restricted in any way by color of skin, nationality, race, so just follow through and know that the Family of God is a Family where healing runs in our Family.  Let this become part of the process.  Sometimes it is a simple thing we do that makes a huge difference to us and to God.  Kind of like a simple change, repeated, becomes a good habit…resulting in major changes.  It is easy because it is done once step of obedience at a time.  Life does not have to be the school of hard knocks all the time.  Take charge.  You have authority in the Name of Jesus and when you use it, your spirit will be uplifted as well because you are acting in obedience to the Word of God.  Fear has no place in the life of Christians, except for the healthy fear of the Lord.  Sickness has no place in the Family of God.  I better not get started there… so for now: God bless each person that reads this and I do pray you implement the suggestions I made. 

#THINK about this:  No home….can be too Joyous, too Peaceful, too full of Love!  THAT’S a given.  So if you could use a little more, welcome the Presence of the Lord Jesus Christ into your home in a greater way by evicting darkness and by welcoming the Holy Spirit, honor His Presence.  You will be glad you did.  If anyone knows how to please you, bless you, give you the desires of your heart, and more, he does!  After all, he put those desires in your heart so be expectant…joyful…worship him…and sleep in peace as your home truly becomes a haven of rest, peace, love, and joy. 

When your faith is in the Word of God and in Jesus Christ, you are pleasing Him.  Keep your confidence in Christ.  Kick it up a notch as your raise the bar higher in your home, a “Home Sweet Home” in the truest sense of the Word.  The word ‘WELCOME’ will take on a whole new meaning and your visitors will see and experience the changes too.  You are blessed to be a blessing.  Aim to make it to heaven and enjoy abundant life while passing through on this earth.  I challenge you:  BE A BLESSING!  BE A BLESSING….to the glory of God!! 

Written By: Linda Lou Jones

                    PS.45:1 My tongue is the pen

                    Of a ready writer. 

                    Glory to God.

FYI:  My tweets, blogs, and the above writing are copywrite protected @2011.

#56. FIFTY QUESTIONS

1. When progress is hindered repeatedly do you quit? 
2. Do you recognize discouragement when it…hits? 
3. Does your reaction… reveal how you feel? 
4. Are you answering these questions truthfully or how you think they should be answered if God was asking? 
5. How many times do you hit the wall before you ask if this is the direction to take? 
6. Have you considered the fact that sometimes one more step needs to be taken prior to the next breakthrough? 
7. Have you ever climbed a staircase only to discover what appeared to be the top was a wider step that took you around a corner …and led you to yet a few more stairs to climb?
8. How do you react when you learn your plan showing point A and point B, also has a Point C? 
9. Is God ever early or late? 
10. Is patience something you are learning?

                                       

                                 ******************************

 

11. Is your discernment having to grow?  Is your faith being tried? 
12. Do circumstances ever change? 
13. What are you worrying about when you say God is in control? 
14. Why do you entertain distractions when time is of the essence? 
15. Do you think you would persevere more diligently if you could see the future? 
16. Do you believe your prayers are being answered? 
17. Do you still hear the voice of the Holy Spirit? 
18. Do you trust God to work all things together for good?
19. Do you think it is important to ask questions?
20. Do your friends influence you or visa verso?

                                    ******************************

21. Does God know how to multiply? 
22. Do you believe your faith is strong? 
23. Do you speak the truth in love? 
24. Is there an area of your life where you want God to bring much revelation so as to help you breakthrough more quickly? 
25. Do you realize how much God loves you? 
26. Are you receiving God’s love? 
27. What is the greatest breakthrough you achieved in the past month?
28. How many new goals have you set to be reached by the end of 2011?
29. Does your countenance reflect Jesus….his light, love, tenderness?
30. Do you want to be more Christ-like?

                             

                                       ******************************

31. How many Bible verses did you memorize in the past month?
32. Have you documented things the Holy Spirit instructed you to do?
33. How diligent are you when it comes to reading the Word of God?
34. Has your prayer life increased in power and fervency; resulting in an increase of time spent in prayer?
35. Do you share your zeal for the things of the Lord when the Holy Spirit nudges you to, or not?
36. Are you fearful of rejection or is pride holding you back from being bold for Christ?
37. When in doubt and making a decision, do you ask yourself what Jesus would do?
38. Have you seen the trail you have blazed for Jesus or do you never look back?
39. Regardless of the cost of picking up your cross do you continue to be expectant of God’s rewards for obedience?
40. If you could change three things and improve on your behaviour, what would those three things be?

                                          ******************************

41. Is your motive good when it comes to correcting someone?
42. Do you ever condemn without realizing it?
43. When the Holy Spirit gives an instruction to do something seemingly bazaar…do you?
44. What is the most thrilling thing that ever happened to you?
45. When did you decide to follow Jesus and not ever turn back?
46. If you could be more effective than anyone, in winning souls, what would you be doing?
47. When it comes to personal preferences, is yours…lined up with the Word?
48. Where do you keep your most prized possessions?
49.  What do you do for others that you enjoy doing most?
50. When you have breathed your last breath on earth will you hear: “Well done, thou good and faithful Servant….”?

I PRAY THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL REVEAL THINGS TO YOU... AS YOU ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS.  I TOO WILL BE RECEIVING REVELATION FROM HIM, THANKFULLY.  GOD IS GOOD…ALL THE TIME.  GOD BLESS YOU!

Written By:  Linda Lou Jones

                     PS.45:1 …my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

                     Glory To God.

FYI:  My blogs and tweets are copyrighted…@LindaLouJones 2011.

#54  TRUTH 


Truth is:  some 'Truth' hurts.
Sometimes 'Truth' is humorous.
Other times 'Truth' is painful. 
Yet again, 'Truth' is liberating.
'Truth' can be partial...white lie truth...
'Truth' can be whole...the whole truth
And nothing but the truth.

 Truth is:....'Truth' can be twisted.

 'Truth' can be trusted.

'Truth' can be discerned.

'Truth' can be believed.

'Truth' can edify.

The Holy Spirit is:

The Spirit of 'Truth'. 

'Truth' is part of God's DNA.

'Truth' is part of God's Character.

'Truth' is...God does not change.

The percentage of 'Truth' you know

Is the percentage you are free.

You shall know the 'truth'

And the 'truth' shall make you free!  John 8:32

 

PS.91:4 ...truth shall be your shield...

PS.51:6 ...Behold, You desire truth

PS.119:142 and your Law is truth 

John 14:6 I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Eph. 4:15 but, speaking the truth in love...

Eph.6:14 ...having girded your waist with truth

1Tim. 2:7 I am speaking the truth in Christ

2Tim.3:7...to the knowledge of the truth

1John 3:19 that we are of the truth

1John 5:6 the Spirit is truth

Written By: Linda Lou Jones

PS.45:1 ...my tongue is the pen

of a ready writer.

Glory To God

#48.  ALPHABET


I find it amazing how God gives me ideas.
The Holy Spirit, who is my Teacher, is so kind.
He just showed me to go through the alphabet slowly,
Pick a word that comes to mind for each letter 
Then write a poem about each word.

Next thing I knew twenty six poems were created.
Written under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost
In God's perfect timing.

I give God the glory and can tell you:
I'm ELATED!!


                +++(INSP#2)



God's thoughts are wiser, His ways are higher than mans...."


NOTE: Ask God to give you what I call a "Light Bulb idea"; something that will help propel you to the next level more quickly.  Have faith to receive...

                                              +++


Guess What:  I just read a tweet that said to write about what inspires you...:-)