Foreign Invaders

I have a little anatomy lesson today.  Did you realize we all have cancer cells roaming around in our bodies?  Every day you wake up and cancers cells run around inside.  Also, viruses and bacteria roam around trying to find some healthy cell to consume and take over.  These foreign, unwanted, destructive cells lurk around for a home. 

Each day before you even finish your breakfast, the cancer cells diminish and the viruses are probably under attack.  Our body senses these foreign invaders and prepares for battle.  Your body produces specific cells to go and attack the unwanted cancers and viruses.  These good cells take one for the team by combating the plan for annihilation against the body.  Once defeated, your body goes on about the day without you realizing you were under attack.  God's creation is amazing!

He shall say: “Hear, Israel: Today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them.  For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” (Deuteronomy 20:3-4)

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21) 

Each day our minds receive attack from Satan.  His lies consume our thoughts and roam around looking for Truth to destroy.  Also, this world comes with full force at us, throwing fiery darts.  We have ugly words spat at us, destructive situations surrounding our day, negative attitudes creeping next to us, unwanted storms in life and the enemy lurking to feed off these moments.  Are we going to stand unprepared, naive, unaware and allow destruction in and around our lives?  OR, are we going to take one for His team and overcome evil with good?

He will fight for you.  All you need to do is accept Him in your life, believe Him, trust Him and acknowledge that He is your Lord and Savior.  His Word is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.  The things Satan intends for harm and destruction, God will bring good and accomplish His plan. 

As long as you breathe, trials and tribulation will exist.  But take a stand against it and ask the Holy Spirit to work through you.  Access His power within you to stay focused on the prize, eternal life with our Creator.  He loves you so much and wants joy, unending joy for your life.  Let Him fight those battles for you so Satan cannot destroy your life or hold you in bondage.

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for bringing Truth into my life.  Your Word has set me free and I believe Your promises.  I see them active in my life.  Thank You for defeating Satan.  Continue to consume my every thought and move.  Guide me in the direction You plan for me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Believe - Receive

Yesterday was the only day our family could go and enjoy a local fair.  The day started a little gloomy.  Rain poured down by mid-morning and continued past lunch.  The sun peered out for an hour or so, creating some hope that the night would go as planned.  Well, the rain returned with a vengeance.

I went to pick up my kids and my mother-in-law informed me of the prayers said by her and my daughter to stop the rain.  As we returned home, the sky did not comply with the prayers.  My hopes faded.  I began thinking of different plans to keep the kids entertained for the evening. 

"but God has surely listened
   and has heard my prayer.
Praise be to God,
   who has not rejected my prayer
   or withheld his love from me!" (Psalm 66:19-20)

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” (Matthew 21:22)

I began preparing supper, turned around to glance out the window and the sun shone brightly.  Wow, He did hear those little prayers.  Why did I even begin to doubt?  God always comes through for us.  No prayer is insignificant in His eyes.

There are times when we cry out in prayer and then quickly forget to believe for an answer.  We cry out for help, guidance, healing or comfort but continue on with the same attitude.  We must pray and BELIEVE.  Place HOPE in the promises of our God.  Have FAITH that He will work all things out for good.

At times, we do not receive a response immediately.  Trust in Him.  There is reason for His delayed response.  He hears and He knows the best result for you.  If rain continued last night and prevented our family from attending the fair, it would be alright.  He would provide another plan for our evening.  Take every plan He presents and enjoy it.  Keep Him at the center and all the other details will fall in place.

God, thank you for today.  Thank You for answering my daughter's prayer yesterday despite my doubt.  Thank You for the pleasant evening we all spent together.  Keep my eyes focused on You and continue to strengthen my faith as I hope and believe in You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig  

Your Silversmith

The refinement of silver consists of purifying an impure material.  The final material does not change chemically in any way, only more pure.  In most cases, fire is the source used for refining.  The heat must remain at just the right temperature and for certain amounts of time or the silver ruins.

A silversmith sits on constant watch to avoid injury occurring to the silver.  Only the silversmith knows when the refining process reaches completion; when he can see clearly his image reflected.  No other person, not a timer on the furnace nor the silver itself can proclaim completion; only the silversmith, the creator of this fine silver.

"For you, God, tested us;
   you refined us like silver." (Psalm 66:10)

"For my own name’s sake I delay my wrath;
   for the sake of my praise I hold it back from you,
   so as not to destroy you completely.
See, I have refined you, though not as silver;
   I have tested you in the furnace of affliction." (Isaiah 48:9-10)

"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness,  and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the LORD, as in days gone by, as in former years." (Malachi 3:3-4)

At times we may see a trial as too great.  We may feel overwhelmed by the tasks lying before us.  Other times, pain strikes our lives and we question, "Why"?  You may feel innocent and undeserving of any trial, tribulation or challenge.

Remember, God does not allow more than you can handle.  He sits as a silversmith watching and waiting until His image reflects clearly.  He will NOT throw you in the fiery furnaces of life and abandon you.  He will NOT rescue too soon, leaving you unrefined.  He will NOT turn His back for even one second.

Various temperatures and times exist for each individual.  The furnace looks different for each one as well.  Only God knows where to place you for refining.  Only God knows when the process concludes. 

What are your fiery furnaces in life?

Embrace each one.  Do not be afraid, but be joyous with each trial.  Remember, the end result will be purification, increased faith, strength and the wisdom to go and help others.  Remain stable and allow God to work.  Reach to Him for answers and peace in the worst of trials.  He is right there at your side to carry to completion.  Then, you will become more Christ-like in your walk. 

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for my fiery furnaces I currently embrace.  Guide me and keep my eyes focused on You.  May I shout for joy as my purification progresses.  I know You sit and wait for just the right time to kill the fire and remove me from the furnace.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

Do You Know the ONE in HIGH PLACES?

My husband prepares year round for the weekend we just completed.  His behind the scene work often goes unnoticed.  As a guest to the event, you simply enjoy yourself.  Being a guest, not a volunteer, hinders your understanding of what preparations actually occur to make the weekend successful.  Sometimes things do not go as planned and Plan B must come to the rescue.  Other times Plan B falls through and you just have to roll with the punches. 

Being that my husband plays an important role in the event, we received royal treatment.  Our hotel room adjoined a second room with a couch, two chairs, another bathroom and a dining table.  Upon arriving at the field, we drove on into the complex, set up registration and received shirts as "staff" members.  After the day was done, we enjoyed dinner at a local restaurant.  The following day, at the banquet, we sat front row and went through the food line first.  It feels good to know people in high places from time to time.

"The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.  Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.  I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." (Romans 8:16-18)

"Clap your hands, all you nations;
   shout to God with cries of joy.

 For the LORD Most High is awesome,
   the great King over all the earth." (Psalm 47:1-2)

Guess what?  Accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, living life according to Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to work within you creates a life full of royal treatment.  God created us in His image; therefore, we are His children.  Accepting Him brings unending joy, a place prepared for you in Heaven and peaceful travels here on Earth.

Although we know the One in High Places, the work He does behind the scenes exceeds our imagination.  He works 24/7 for us.  He prepares each day, each detail in life and creates numerous plans in case the intended one went sour.  He remains ready and willing to be active in your life.  You just need to accept Him, acknowledge Him and become a servant to Christ.  Becoming a servant may be hard, but the benefits far outweigh the labor.  It feels AMAZING to know the ONE in HIGH PLACES!

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for blessing our weekend and allowing us to see You at work.  I appreciate all the royal treatment provided by You.  I stand in awe of the work You do to save me numerous times daily.  Thank You for protection, comfort, love, peace and joy.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Emergency Prayer

Emergency rooms exist to provide immediate, rapid care to individuals with serious illness or injury.  Operation rooms accommodate those with open wounds, infection, etc.  Often times the OR situation results from an emergency as well.  Hospital admittance comes often to those with non-life threatening injuries or stable conditions and a continuous flow of antibiotics aides in healing.  Doctor's offices take in calls for a patient not feeling well or even just a check-up. 

Various kinds of physical healing takes place every minute.  Some require immediate care; while others can gradually receive care.  All injuries do require an individual with medical education, a degree or certificate.  Healing does not take place on its own.  We must reach for help.

"I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;
   turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
Show me the wonders of your great love,
   you who save by your right hand
   those who take refuge in you from their foes." (Psalm 17:6-7)

"no harm will overtake you,
   no disaster will come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you
   to guard you in all your ways;" (Psalm 91:10-11) 

In life, God wants us to call for help.  Reach to a Higher Power to help in every situation.  Call upon God; He listens and responds.  Dial JER-33:3 and wait for Him.  Sometimes an immediate answer is needed.  Other times surgery to remove all infection and disease may be the answer.  Still other calls may simply need slow healing or watchful care.  And still others may just be a call to check in.  Regardless, call upon Him.

As I drove my van, lots of racket sounded from my front tire.  I feared my brakes were failing again.  This same noise appeared a few months back and the problem existed in my brake line.  Well, as the miles accumulated, my steering wheel and dash began vibrating loudly.  I asked my mom and step dad to pray for an answer or a safe trip to my destination.  I called my husband in frantic mode asking what to do.  I really did not feel comfortable driving any further.  Come to find out, my husband and son said a prayer immediately, calling out an SOS to God.

Well, God deemed this situation as an emergency and quickly responded.  My husband called back and asked if I would check the lug nuts and see if they were loose.  I searched for a torc wrench with no luck.  By now, my anxiety grew and panic set in even more.  My emotions fogged my thoughts to pray.  But, God heard so many others praying for the situation.  I parked the vehicle and went into a local store to ask for help.  A young boy came to the rescue.  Come to find out, the lug nuts were EXTREMELY loose and one had broken off.  I recently took the van to get an oil change and tires rotated.  Well, the lug nuts were not properly tightened on one tire. 

I went on my merry way without vibration and knocking.  My anxiety subsided and I seen God's hands all over the situation.  As I drove I looked over to my left and took in the sights of the sky.  The clouds covered, but the sun peeped out and created a beautiful span of rays coming down.  When I was little I always thought the rays seeping through meant that God was bringing someone to Heaven.  Well, last night I believe it meant God was bringing back the angel He sent to watch over me and guard my emergency.

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for quickly responding to a plea for help.  I am sorry for getting wrapped up in panic mode that I was unable to even ask for prayer.  Thank You for surrounding loving individuals to pray for me.  Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Be in Step with His Plan

Yesterday, God painted beautifully in the sky and the temperature felt perfect.  My daughter and I went to a local zoo to walk around, met my husband for lunch at a park and then headed to pick up my son from school.  Upon returning home, my son entertained his sister while I mowed the yard.  The day just went well.

My eyes opened a little more yesterday.  God spoke loudly to my heart.  He said, "See Sheree, this is what I planned for you and I did not want you to miss out on this life."  I breathe in the fresh air.  I am able to walk around the zoo, pushing my three year old and half our house in a stroller.  I sit and watch my husband play with our daughter at the park.  Her smile and laughter could light up a room.  I catch a glimpse of my son taking care of his sister so I could get my chores completed.  He plays so well with her and even shared his cars with her.  Wow, I feel His blessings.

"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,  made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.  And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,  in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2:4-7)

"Create in me a pure heart, O God,
   and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence
   or take your Holy Spirit from me." (Psalm 51:10-11)

I recognize that is by the grace given to me from God that I am still alive.  About 18 months ago, I remained very unhealthy.  God saved my life.  He led me to His Truths and opened my eyes to the plans He originated for my life.  Yes, God has plans for your life too.  Can you see them?  The plans may not include a high position on the success ladder, changing the world or traveling the country.  But, every plan, every purpose He has for you is important.  Every day invite the Holy Spirit in to guide your every move, so to be in step with His plan.  He will create a pure heart, renew your mind with Truth and bring peace in your life. 

God opens my eyes continually to why I exist - for HIM!  We all were created in His image for His plan.  Seeing the wonderful sights yesterday reminded me why it was so important for me to rid myself of my bondage.  Satan takes hold and steals all joy.  Satan lies continually to us and kills our minds, body and souls.  Kick him out.  Tell him to hit the road and allow God's grace to set you free.  God sent His only Son to die so you may live an abundant life.  Not just an okay life; life to the FULLEST!  Embrace every thought and make it obedient to Him.  Open your eyes to see what blessings He wishes you to receive.

God is KIND, CARING and LOVING.  He wants to pour all these and more on your life.  Will you believe in Him and accept this FREE gift of grace?

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for Your saving grace.  I see my blessings and I just stand in awe of Your work.  You are amazing.  Keep me healthy so I may serve You wholeheartedly.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig
  

Do You Believe in Him?

"Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
   bind them around your neck,
   write them on the tablet of your heart." (Proverbs 3:3)

"God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us.  He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith." (Acts 15:8-9) 

"so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." (Romans 15:6-8)

"that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (John 3:15-17)

"Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls." (1 Peter 1:8-9)

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." (1 Peter 5:10)

We walk daily among all of God's Children.  We stroll along the streets, seeing all of His Creation.  He continues to work daily.  He did not just create, then sit back and observe.  His word is active and alive.  He lives within us.  You may not physically see Him, but the results of His love, grace, kindness, compassion and strength may be seen everywhere.  Open your eyes to Him.  Do you believe in Him?  Write on your calendar each day the love He provides and keep your faith in the forefront of your mind.  See and feel it everyday.  Let Him work in you!

Just as He loves and accepts you, do so for His other children.  Love one another, accept one another for who He created them to be, extend a hand of grace and stand firm on His Truth.  You may suffer a little while here and there, but remember this is our temporary home.  He has overcome the world.  Do you believe in Him?

He did not send His only Son to wash away ALL our sins for us to receive condemnation.  He sent Him to die so we may be saved.  Do you believe in Him?  Praise Him always.  His Truth will set you free.  He cares so much for you as His child and wants you to live an abundant life!

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for sending Jesus to die for us.  I know Your love exceeds any I can imagine.  Thank You for loving me, caring for me, protecting me, comforting me and saving my soul.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

You are not Excluded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmCTpiprQxg&feature=related

Take a minute, well a few, and listen to every word from the song above.  I believe we all could fit into one of the described situations.  If not, there may be something hindering your walk with God.  Some lie, bitter feeling, angry relationship or past mistake that you feel excludes you from His forgiveness.  Your mirror may reflect just a body, lacking the fulfillment from the Holy Spirit.  What interrupts your faith?  What thought consumes your mind and overpowers His Truth?

"Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people.  For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.

The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more,  so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:18-21)

"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:5)

God created you in His image.  He knew exactly what He was getting when breathing life into you and me.  He makes no mistakes.  When He sent Jesus, His only Son, to die for us; He realized we were still sinners.  Through one disobedient act, sin came to existence.  BUT, through ONE obedient man, all sin was washed away.  You are someone worth dying for!  God extends grace to you and to me.  No sin excludes you from His forgiveness.  He waits with open arms to forgive and heal.  He never leaves and it is not too late to receive His grace. 

Pray for God to help you believe.  Look in the mirror and see more than just a body in the reflection.  Your existence serves a purpose.  He has work for you to accomplish.  Push Satan out of the way and allow God to consume you with grace.  He knows everything about you, for He created you.  Nobody is hidden from God. 

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for forgiveness.  You are an awesome God and I just stand in awe of all Your work.  The people surrounding me, the love poured upon me, the comfort I find in You and the strength provided.  Thank You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Say "NO" to the World

A child explores the world through smell, touch, taste, feel and sight.  Through this process they may determine what is okay to play with, items to steer clear from, what tastes good, and what should never touch their mouths again.  They discover colors which catch their eye, smells that bring a smile, what clothes are comfortable, and what clothes to throw out the door. 

A child begins life clueless, without knowledge.  Parents teach the kids what they know to help navigate though this world.  We try our hardest to keep them out of harms way, create a healthy meal plan, allow for self-discovery and keep them clothed well.  Unfortunately, parents only get five years to help a child discover themselves and teach skills without any other influences; the world captures the rest of the years. 

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2)

"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.  It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good." (Titus 2:11-14)

I allowed this world to tell me who I was, what I need to do to be accepted, how I should dress, where I should go and the foods I could eat.  I conformed to the beliefs and expectations of whoever surrounded me at the time.  I strived for approval, yearned to be loved and feared loneliness.  I lost myself in the world. 

Satan prowls around this world looking for people to devour.  He takes an innocent, naive mind and overtakes the thoughts.  Satan owned my mind.  Every thought filled with his lies.  My beliefs and worth remained based on other's opinions, his lies and my performance. 

Through every generation, the Truth remains.  No matter the patterns the world chooses to follow, His Truth never fails.  We are to avoid the lies and renew our minds daily with Truth.  We must use the word "NO" when flesh tries to take over.  We wait in joyful hope for the coming of the Lord, following His Laws!

Being a parent is tough.  Continually pointing our children to the Truth can become tiring.  Some days, we fall victim ourselves to the pattern of the world and believe lies around us.  Make it a team effort to keep focus on God.  The spiritual battle will remain until Jesus comes again.  Satan does not care how old or young a person; he wants to devour and place all in bondage.  Create a soft place for your children to fall and don't ignore the tough times or assume it is just a phase!  Keep conversations flowing.  For we all have one common enemy who wants to win our thoughts.  Captivate each thought and make it obedient to Him, our Savior.  If one day goes wrong; remember, His mercies are new every morning.

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for my children.  Work through me as a parent to guide these little ones to Truth.  I pray for their little minds to be protected.  I pray for them to come to You with struggles and then to me as a vessel for Your comfort.  Place the armor on each of my children, needed for the spiritual battle they encounter.  Keep me focused on Truth so I do not fall victim to fleshly desires.  Thank You for washing all my sins away.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Peace, Power and Perception

Discern means to perceive by the sight or some other sense or by the intellect; see, recognize, or apprehend.
Apprehend means to grasp the meaning of; understand, especially intuitively; perceive.

 

Change is tough and scary.  New concepts may be hard to grasp.  We too often remain in the mindset of how things have worked or remain consistent in our decision making, refusing to change or budge from position.  Sometimes, life requires a decision to be made, a fork presented in the road.  One way may lead to a whole new lifestyle, while the other keeps the comfort in your life.  These choices require some deep prayer, long thinking and much discernment.  God brings clarity to every situation.  I

 

God,

 

grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

 

"Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.  I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths." (Proverbs 4:10) 

 

"The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.  The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so." (Romans 8:6-7)

 

The courage to change the things I can,

 

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

 

"So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me." (Acts 27:25)

 

and The wisdom to know the difference.

 

"I am your servant; give me discernment
   that I may understand your statutes." (Psalm 119:125)

 

". . .He gives wisdom to the wise
   and knowledge to the discerning.
He reveals deep and hidden things;
   he knows what lies in darkness,
   and light dwells with him." (Daniel 2:21-22)

 

Reach up to Him for peace in circumstances we not like, courage to step into the unknown, and the discernment to know whether to step or remain.  Listen to Him.  He will instruct you in the way to go.  Ask the Holy Spirit to come and govern your life so you will steer clear of fleshly desires.  Do not fear when life takes some turns or the mundane is shaken in your days.  He will be at your side and keep His promises.  Through His guidance, His Truth and His love you will see clearly the next step.  Use Him in every decision; invite Him into your every move!

 

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for all the love, wisdom and comfort you provide.  Remain in the driver's seat each day of my life.  Guide my foot; were it to slip, catch it.  Many decisions occur every day, give me peace, courage and wisdom to speak and step with confidence through each one.  Give me patience to wait on You, to wait for Your decision and not be led by the flesh.  I love You.

 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig 

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Sunday comes and preparation begins for the week ahead.  Mondays bring the worst of circumstances at work.  You set the alarm full of dread for what you will face tomorrow.  How can anyone acquire restful sleep while worry, fear, tension, agony and panic consume the mind?

The alarm rings loudly, you roll over and push snooze (a few times).  As you become horizontal, the thoughts flood in from the night before.  The kids miss the bus, so you must take them to school.  By taking them to school, you experience traffic.  The traffic cuts you so close to being late for work.  As you take a drink of coffee, some falls on your pants.  Great; you have a presentation to give at work today! 

Finally, you arrive at work and a few people called in sick, leaving more work for you.  When entering your office, a message awaits from your husband.  His car broke down on his way to work and must be fixed today.  Great, another bill!  You glance at the time on the clock and it is only 9:00am.  You feel as though you can take no more today.  How can you survive the rest of Monday?

"But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.  For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict."

(Luke 21:14-15)

 "Anxiety weighs down the heart,
   but a kind word cheers it up." (Proverbs 12:25)

"When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
   your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
When anxiety was great within me,
   your consolation brought me joy." (Psalm 94:18-19)

Turn it ALL over to God.  He will take over and help you rise from the anxiety, sadness and discouraging emotions.  He will not let you fall into ruin and He provides peace in ALL situations. 

Your arms reach up to Him in prayer.  Since others called in sick, your boss postpones the presentation.  You recall an extra pair of slacks left in the car and change quickly.  A friend asks you to lunch and foots the bill.  While at lunch, the TV shows news from the morning.  A wreck occurred by the office, just 20 minutes before you arrived.  It took you 20 minutes out of your way to take the kids to school.  Upon returning to work, another message waits from your husband.  A guy at his work checked out the car, found the problem and fixed it for the price of your lunch. 

Do you see it?  God works in the most amazing ways and too often we miss His presence.  Ask Him into your every moment and walk with full confidence that He will work all things out.  When you rest your head at night, do not dread or worry about tomorrow.  God already went ahead of you and planned a wonderful day for you and Him to experience together.  Yes, Satan may try and throw some wrenches in the work, but asking God to come along will not allow for ruin.  If your thoughts expect a bad day, then you will focus on every little thing that goes wrong and Satan will gain a foothold.  "Where the mind goes the man follows" (Joyce Meyer).  He already defeated Satan.  Have faith in Him and walk hand in hand through every moment.

If things go wrong, don't go with them.  ~Roger Babson

Worry often gives a small thing a big shadow.  ~Swedish Proverb

Don't sweat the small stuff. . . God's got your back!

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for another chance to enjoy this land You provide.  Walk with me today.  Let us enjoy the weather, laugh together, spread some smiles and do all we can to help others in need.  Keep me focused on Your Truth and the promises You made.  I know You will never leave me nor forsake me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

No Two are the Same

I like to people-watch.  Often others may think I am being rude by staring.  But, I am not staring in judgment by any means.  I watch in amazement.  I marvel at His creation.  I recognize His creativity.  I appreciate the various gifts He distributed to each one of His children.  No two people share the same characteristics.  God knows each of His children well and can speak to them in just the right way to gain a relationship.

I watch an older couple sing beautifully together.  I catch two young ladies laughing as they text on their cell phone.  I experience a person placing the needs of another before their own.  A little child brings a smile to the worst situations.  A husband loves his wife as God intended.  A father takes time to give attention to his child. 

No gift is too small or unrecognized by our Father.  He likes variety and for each child He created a reason to have life. 

"Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.  To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,  to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit,  to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines." (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) 

"But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body." (1 Corinthians 15:38)

Just as our gifts vary, so do our bodies.  We each have a specific shape and size.  Each for a reason.  God sees beauty in every mirror.  We were created in His image.  An artist visualizes beauty in their minds and then creates it on paper.  An architect imagines the perfect building with each piece in place and then creates it for the purpose intended. 

God is our Architect, our Artist, our Creator.  He took time to careful plan every fiber of our being to fit the purpose intended.  He then created us, resulting in a beautiful child, sent into this world to fulfill the work He imagined.  Each part of your body, nose, mouth, eyes, physique, toes, etc. serves a purpose for your specific plan.  Each part is beautiful.  Each part came from Him.

Allow God to speak clearly your purpose.  He will speak to each in different ways.  There again, variety!  Don't let Satan overpower the voice of God in your life.  Love one another just as He loves you.  Enjoy the variety, creativity and gifts distributed from Him in every one you meet.  Praise Him for the works of His mighty hand.  He is amazing!

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for variety.  It would be very boring if all were created from a mold.  Thank You for the time took to cover every detail of every life created.  Help me see through Your eyes all the beauty and gifts of those I encounter.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Protect Yourself

The time comes in the evening to end the day.  We begin to shut down the house. . .

-Lock the front door - CHECK
-Lock the back door - CHECK
-Turn off the computer, oven and stove - CHECK
-Adjust the A/C or heater to comfortable - CHECK
-Shut the windows - CHECK
-Turn dryer off - CHECK
-Lock up the vehicle - CHECK

This list allows us to create a safe environment while we sleep.  It puts our minds at ease so restful sleep may occur.  It protects our family from fire, robbery and theft.  We do the best we can to protect our possessions, ourselves and our children. 

After completing the check list, we ask for even more protection from God.  Our prayers lift up for safety, rest and a watchful eye over our home.  Our eyes close assured that in the morning everything will be just how we left it.

"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings." (1 Peter 5:8-9)

"my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
   my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—
   from violent people you save me." (2 Samuel 22:3)  

"The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." (James 3:6)

Have you ever forgotten something on your checklist? 

I have woke up in the morning only to find the keys still in the front door.  We leave the windows open during certain seasons allowing for anyone to enter through them.  Our back door has sat unlocked throughout the whole evening.  I even walked by the oven one morning only to discover the heat still on from supper the night before.

Neglecting our checklist sets up the risk for harm.  Excuses will not fix the damage.  "I am sorry, I was exhausted last night."  "The kids were just running amuck."  "I did good to remember to take a shower after the day I experienced."

The reasons or excuses will not help in the matter.  A thief does not care or have any pity on you because of exhaustion, a terrible day or a hectic evening.  He will still come to steal and destroy.  Sparks and flames don't check with you first to see the why the item remained on all evening.  Fire still will consume your home and destroy your possessions.

Just as our home must receive attention to be protected, so does our spirit.  We must check every foothold, every trigger, every word used and every situation faced.  Place on protection.  Ask the Holy Spirit to come with you and guide your steps.  God will protect and rescue from harm.  Leave the excuses at home.  Don't try to reason with God.  He asks for your full attention and invitation to come and protect your mind, body and soul.

Satan does not miss any chance to come in, steal and destroy you.  Satan does not care or have pity.  If any foothold exists, he will slide right in and do all kinds of harm.  Check every crevice of your being.  Ask God to protect, place on the armor provided in Scripture and allow the Holy Spirit to work within you.  Let the enemy see your house is protected and he does not stand a chance.  God will stand for you and tell the enemy to move on somewhere else, there is no place for evil here!

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for protecting me and guiding me to safety.  Should the enemy come in, I know You will catch him and kick him out.  Keep me alert to his schemes and the footholds I may create.  Rid me of those trigger situations and feed Truth into my soul.  You are such an awesome God and I love You dearly.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig  

God, Family, and Friends

 

A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.
~ Walter Winchell ~

"One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
   but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24)

Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow.
Don't walk behind me, I may not lead.
Walk beside me and be my friend.
~ Albert Camus ~

"Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
   and the pleasantness of a friend
   springs from their heartfelt advice." (Proverbs 27:9)

You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them.
~ Desmond Tutu ~

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18)

Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible -- the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family.
~ Virginia Satir ~

"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."

(Romans 15:7)

As I grow, I realize the importance of each person entering my life.  Each is a gift from God.  He decides who comes in to our life, who stays and who may be better in the distance.  Cherish one another, help each other grow closer to God and extend hands of grace.  Keep God at the center of every relationship and pray for one another.

Ask God to use surrounding people to speak Truth into your life, and then share with the ones close to you of your struggles.  Find a safe place to be yourself, feel loved, accepted and comforted.  God created other people so we will not be physically alone in this world.  He realized His children needed physical comfort.  He chose each of us as vessels to be His hands and feet and build each other up.

Sometimes God uses friends to create a family and other times He uses family to create friends.  Either way, He builds a support system to love, trust, enjoy and comfort.

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for every person brought into my life.  I thank You for the family surrounding me.  Continue to keep our masks down and extend hands of grace to one another.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

God's Plan Overtakes

Before leaving for vacation, you make a list of things to pack, get plane tickets ready, create an itinerary and try to plan for any emergency. 
A project at work approaches, so you plan every detail needed to complete the project.  You make lists, gather materials and begin the process.
Your homework includes a presentation.  You begin with an outline, fill in the details and study the words you will use to deliver the information.

We are planners.  It is comforting knowing what to expect, being prepared for anything and experience no surprises along the way.  My mom would bring blankets and crackers along with us on every trip.  We poked fun at her and laughed every time.  But, guess who became hungry on the road trip?  Guess who wanted to curl up in a blanket and take a nap?  Yes, we did.  The idea of bringing a blanket and crackers did not seem so off the wall then.  Planning ahead brings peace to our minds.  Knowing what to expect lessens anxiety.

What if we allowed Someone else to control our situations?  What if we relied on Another to bring all the 'tools' needed for survival?  What if we let go of our itinerary?

"But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
   the purposes of his heart through all generations." (Psalm 33:11)

"In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will,  in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory."

(Ephesians 1:11-12) 

God holds all the blueprints, itineraries, details, emergency kits and tools for every event.  He plans for good, not harm.  He plans for prosperity not failure.  No matter how hard we plan or take care of every detail and backup plan, God's plan overtakes our's.  Don't fight it; just give every event to Him. 

Now, I am not saying go everywhere unprepared.  But, I am saying if things do not go as YOU planned them, it is okay.  GOD had something else in mind.  The plan He chose to put into play helped further His Kingdom.

I experienced this very thing last night.  Our group had an outline to follow and specific events to take place.  Well, something better came up to spur discussion and the outline went out the window.  The new plan came from God and intended to bring struggles to the table so to find methods and solutions.  I just stood in amazement of the way our wonderful God works.  He is in charge and His plan always works.  Thank you God for leading our group.

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for answering prayers, comforting others, loving people through trials and leading us to joy.  Take over my itinerary every day and conform it to follow Your Will.  May all my words be Yours and pleasing to You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

He Will Be There!

I want to extend yesterday's writing.  God knew that I needed to hear those words typed yesterday.  I went to complete my morning rituals and get ready to walk out the door and pain began to come in my stomach.  This pain is a 'norm' in my life, but yesterday the pain came a bit sharper than usual.  I began to get downhearted knowing I needed to go to work and face the stresses that come with my job.  This was not going to help my pain one bit.  To top it all off, I felt exhausted and the time was only 8:00 am.

I desperately needed His presence, comfort, strength and guidance.  I asked my husband to pray for me and went on my way. 

“In my distress I called to the LORD;
   I called out to my God.
From his temple he heard my voice;
   my cry came to his ears." (2 Samuel 22:7)

 "Do you not know?
   Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
   the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
   and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary
   and increases the power of the weak.

Even youths grow tired and weary,
   and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD
   will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
   they will run and not grow weary,
   they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:28-31) 

As I drove to drop my daughter off at my in-laws, God spoke to me.  He said, "I am here, I will comfort you and I will not leave you."  I listened, but did not truly digest the message.  I still thought about just going home and sleeping through this day.  I hoped for someone to come and lift me up.  My thoughts began to veer off course. 

I reached my destination and ventured in the house to have a good conversation, as always, with my mother-in-law.  As I spoke with her, my eyes wandered to the clock in her bedroom.  Guess what time it displayed?  Yes, 8:28!  So, I put into my mind the Truth found in Romans 8:28!  God works EVERYTHING out for the good.  I left with a little lighter step than before.

I prayed my way to work.  Once I arrived, God placed more joy on my heart when seeing the smiles from my co-workers.  Then, I went to prepare my station and He revealed my outage from Friday!  Also, when my co-worker arrived beside me, she shared many stories with me and I saw God working all things out for her this week.  She recently lost a dear friend to Lou Gehrig's disease and needed to spend time with the family and at the funeral home.  God opened up the schedule at work and brought others to fill her spot.  Our God is an awesome God.

He made His presence known quickly to me.  He assured me that He is all I need for comfort, peace, love and strength.  He grabbed my thoughts and placed them back on course.  He lifted me up!  Thank you God.

God will never leave you.  He remains present at all times.  Ask Him into your day and just sit and watch as He reveals His power.  He will strengthen you when you feel weak, guide you when you feel lost and lift you up when you feel down.  Cry out to Him when distressed, call upon others to pray for you and wait for the peace to consume your soul.  He hears you.  He loves you.  He wants so badly to be a part of your every day life.  Won't you ask Him?

God will not answer your prayer by saying, "Sorry, not today, I am tired," or, "I just do not feel good today, sorry."  God does not call in sick, go home early or sleep in late.  He ALWAYS has time for you.  Call upon Him at any hour, any minute, any second; He will be there!

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for answering my prayers and getting my thoughts right yesterday.  I pray for my physical pain to stay away from my thoughts.  I pray for Your Truth to overpower any lies stemming from my physical pain.  Satan loves to play with my mind and create havoc.  Stop him in his tracks.  Consume my mind, heart and soul today.  Walk with me through it all.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Stand in Awe of Him

As you visit the Grand Canyon, you stand in awe of the view.  The moment your feet touch the sand, your eyes take in the endless view of the mighty ocean.  Driving into the mountains, your thoughts quiet in amazement of this creation.  The sun setting behind the trees evokes peace in our hearts.  A child born brings joy and a love beyond description.

The scenes above are intense, huge, obvious and apparent works/creations of God.  What about the man who picks up some garbage from the parking lot while entering a store?  What about the lady who helps another carry groceries into her home?  What about the child working freely for his grandpa just to spend time with him?  The dad who takes his son outside and passes baseball?  The man who stops on the side of the road to help a traveler change a flat tire?  The preacher who runs to the bedside of a dying member of the church to pray with the family?

"For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." (Romans1:20)  

"Praise the LORD, all his works
   everywhere in his dominion.

   Praise the LORD, my soul." (Psalm 103:22)

God clearly reveals His power, presence and works to us daily.  Do you see them?  Yes, trees, animals, humans, vacation sites, etc. obviously show His Creation.  But, do you see His constant work, His presence everywhere or His power within your community?  God's power comes through the Holy Spirit to work within us and display His goodness, love, comfort and kindness.  He is everywhere.

I work at a bank and the other day a man brought in a checkbook found in the local Kroger parking lot.  It was full of checks, money and some personal items of a customer of ours.  A kind gesture?  An honest man?  A man seeking a reward?  No, the Holy Spirit brought that particular man to walk by this woman's checkbook in the parking lot.  God knew this man's honesty and used him to help a woman in need.  She was ecstatic to know her belongings were safe and she came instantly to the bank to receive them.  

I stood in awe of the way God works in our every day life.  The lovely woman wanted to send a letter of gratitude but did not even know this man.  We could not find the address for her.  What could she do to thank this man?  Well, low and behold, the man left his name and address on a business card in her checkbook.  Coincidence or luck?  No, the Holy Spirit worked mightily on the man's heart to bring that idea to mind.  Now a letter of gratitude may be sent and who knows the plans for this connection between the two.  It may end right now.  It may continue and God will use this connection to further His Kingdom.  Who knows?  Only God knows of the plans for our future.  Recognize Him and praise Him for His mighty works.  Stand in awe of Him!

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to work in us and remind us of Your presence.  All of Your kindness and love is so clear.  Keep my eyes open to You and the constant work You do through others around me.  Thank You for loving me and taking every step with me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig 

Never Forgotten

September 11, 2001 brought heartache to our country.  The individuals driving to work in NY never imagined their day would turn out as it did.  No one will forget the moment the news broadcasted the attack.  As our tears fell that day, so did God's.  Every prayer lifted that day, He heard.

Anger, questions, sadness, uncertainty, fear and hopeless feelings swarmed the United States.  Some may have lost faith that day, while others clung to their faith.  Some instantly readied themselves for retaliation, while others just stood numb to any action.  Some cried uncontrollable, while others refused to believe this was happening.

No matter the emotion, no matter the reaction, this is real.  Our country received attacks without reason.  Innocent people died 10 years ago.  Children lost their parents 10 years ago.  Husbands lost their wives; wives lost their husbands 10 years ago.       

"Today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them.  For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” (Deuteronomy 20:3-4)

Unfortunately we cannot change the past.  BUT, we can choose to follow God and ask Him into our present and future lives.  This battle continues still today.  We need to pray for our country and its leaders.  We need to clothe our service men and women in prayer.  God will fight with them.  God will stay by their side. 

The loved ones staying behind need prayer.  We often take our freedom for granted; these loved ones do not.  They think every morning about their family member or friend who fights day in and day out so we may walk out our door without fear of attack.  We have freedom because our fellow Americans choose to fight for us.  We also have the freedom to live an abundant life because Jesus died on the cross to wash away our sins.  He died and then sent the Holy Spirit to live within us to fight our spiritual battles daily.
 
Let us take this day and pray for all who fight for us.  Let us thank God for sending His only Son to die on the cross for our sins.  Let us thank God for sending these service men and women to fight the battles in this world for us and who are willing to die for our freedom in this world. 

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for the freedom we have through Your Son, Jesus.  Thank You for sending Your children here to fight for our freedom while living on Earth.  God, we know that this life here is temporary and our true home is in Heaven with You; but the pain is real when loved ones are lost or lives are taken.  I pray for peace in the hearts of the ones left behind.  I pray for the individuals in other countries continuing the fight, 10 years later.  Be with them, guide their every move and protect them.  Clothe the ones waiting for their return in love, peace and faith.  May they reach to You for comfort.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

The Call is Free

If your dryer breaks, you call upon the repairman.  The brakes in the family car go out; you call a mechanic immediately to fix this problem.  When daring to climb a ladder to clean an outside window, you fall and break an arm; so, you call the doctor and rush to the office for a cast to heal the break.  Somehow you lock yourself out of your own house (do not laugh, I have done this WAY too many times); so, if you have your cell phone, you call another person who may have a key. 

Would you dare try to fix or find a solution to the above difficulties on your own?  How could you even begin to approach these issues without any knowledge on the subject?  You would be lost, possibly cause more damage and waste much of your own time.

So, why then should we expect to receive successful results, healing,

peace, help or care on our own every day?

“This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name:  ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’' (Jeremiah 33:2-3)

 "LORD my God, I called to you for help,
   and you healed me.
You, LORD, brought me up from the realm of the dead;
   you spared me from going down to the pit." (Psalm 30:2-3)

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) 

This world is way too big for us to face on our own.  God created the world.  He left no detail unnoticed.  Living, breathing and moving all comes because He cared so dearly for us to bring life into our temporary home (our body).  He touched every fiber of our being in our mother's womb. 

He stands, waiting, on call every minute of every day.  Who better to call upon than our Maker?  Don't think you can do this on your own.  You will try many times over and over without success.  He holds all the answers to any questions, concerns or trials.  Jesus died on the cross so that the Holy Spirit may descend and live within each of us.  Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in this life.  Doing so will prevent havoc and destruction. 

I tried way too long to fix things myself, to avoid the damages and live with blinders on my eyes.  What happens when we avoid maintenance on our appliances, refuse to call a friend for help, ignore an injury to our body or neglect repairs needed on a vehicle?  The results are not pretty.  Don't refuse or ignore the presence of God in your life.  Life with Him goes much smoother.  Joy, healing, love, peace and answers will come only when we call Him.  Even better, the call is free! 

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for holding my hand and walking with me every step of the way.  Continue to show me the path planned for me.  I will not travel without You.  I am sorry for all the times I tried on my own to fix or repair my broken self.  I know only You can bring healing, peace and love.  Thank You for loving me and saving me!  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Beauty in Every Piece

Over the past few days the sun has been playing hide-n-seek.  I have yet to find it.  I told my son as we drove home from school that God forgot to place color on His painting palette this morning.  The skies filled with gray, puffy clouds. 

We for sure needed the rain and the cool breeze is much appreciated, but these dark days extract all the motivation from my body.  I could sit in my chair and sleep all day, not out of sadness, but fatigue.  Light awakens our souls.  It tells our bodies to decrease amount of melatonin produced so we may get moving.  Dark quiets our souls.  It tells our bodies to increase the production of melatonin to stop us in our tracks and rest. 

"He reveals the deep things of darkness
   and brings utter darkness into the light." (Job 12:22)

 "Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
   for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous." (Psalm 112:4)

"See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness.  Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you.”

(Luke 11:35-36)

"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." (John 1:4-5) 

It is that time of year again where the skies are not always shining with light.  This season often brings down our spirits.  Some even experience a season of deep depression.  Let us strive to remember He who lives in us shines brightly and will not hide in darkness.  He will not leave us during any season of life.  God did not create seasons to negatively affect our soul, only to allow for the Earth to function as He desired.  He does not wish for us to become downhearted or open up possible footholds for Satan.  He likes variety.  He reveals this through seasons, people, animals, flowers and all creation.  His artwork displays beauty with every piece created!

Keep Him in the forefront of your minds each day and there will be no darkness.  He will shine brightly inside of your soul and keep your eyes focused on His wonderful creations.  Just as the seasons bring darkness to the sky, our daily lives may bring darkness to our souls.  We must remember in the darkness what He taught in the light.  In this way, we will be able to persevere through anything coming our way.  He will stay at your side and walk through all seasons of life holding your hand. 

When darkness quiets your soul, either through seasonal changes or trials in life; reach up to your Creator, Artist, Physician and Father in Heaven.  He waits with open arms to comfort, guide and awaken your soul.  His light will shine bright and bring motivation to persevere forward. 

God, thank You for this day.  Thank You for all the seasons of the Earth.  Each one has its benefit.  There is beauty in all You created.  Thanks for variety in my life to not keep my days mundane.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

He Leads Along Straight Paths

Yesterday I took a quiz in my class.  I studied every day prior to class for at least an hour.  I could tell you anything you needed to know about the topic.  The test came in front of me and I began reading the questions.  The wording of the questions tripped me up and I became a bit nervous about the result. 

The teacher allowed for a break in lecture and so I went in the hallway.  I suddenly felt a peace come over me and God wrapped His arms around me, squeezing tightly.  I praised Him right at that moment for loving me so much.  I thanked Him for providing all the comfort I need and reminding me that worth is found only through Him.  Whatever the outcome of the quiz, I still remained worthy in the eyes of our Creator! 

". . . He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled." (Joshua 24:17)

"for he guards the course of the just
   and protects the way of his faithful ones." (Proverbs 2:8)

"Listen, my son, accept what I say,
   and the years of your life will be many.
I instruct you in the way of wisdom
   and lead you along straight paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hampered;
   when you run, you will not stumble." (Proverbs 4:10-12)

God knows what circumstances lay ahead for us.  He goes before us and checks out the scene so to come and lead us in the right direction.  He guides us through the trials with His comfort or instructs us to avoid the whole situation by choosing another path. 

A parent examines a playground before allowing a child to play.  The parent checks for unsafe areas, debris which could cause a fall or broken equipment.  Once approved, the child may then go play. 

God does the same for us.  He ventures forward a bit to check for any pits, lies or obstacles placed ahead of us by Satan.  He comes to a decision of where our feet should go and comes back to report to us.  He makes our paths straight as we lean on Him for understanding.  The path He leads may not be the one we wanted, but it will be the right one. 

I believe God went ahead of me a bit and knew the result of my quiz will be less than I would have liked.  He knew that this instance would be one where Satan would come to steal my joy and tear me down.  Being that I invited God into my day and my class, He then played an active role in the situation.  He came to me before Satan could slither my way.  God comforted me and reminded me of His love and the worth I have in Him.  So, when I received my average grade, I remembered the hug, the comfort and the love from my Creator.  God reported back to me in that moment and said, "It is okay Sheree, let us go on forward.  Whatever trouble may come, I still love you and will protect your mind."

Invite God in your every moment so allowing Him to play an active role in the situation.  He never leaves nor forsakes you, but He loves to be invited, formally asked to come along with you.  He always accepts the invitation and He never lets you down.  Allow Him to check out the scenes ahead of you and report back with what tools are needed to persevere through.  Keep Satan at a distance, giving all authority to God; who wishes to protect your every step! 

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for running to me with open arms and reminding me of Your love before Satan could come in and attack.  Thank You for protection in my life and caring so much for little ole me to go before and check out the scene.  Continue to speak to me and provide the tools needed to combat the lies of Satan and avoid the pits he creates.  Come into my day today and spend every moment with me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Forget the Joneses

This world is ever changing.  One day an IPod shuffle suits our every need, and then the next day an IPod touch becomes the must-have.  First a cell phone attached in our vehicle was sufficient, then one attached to our hip that called anyone at any time and now one that performs all function of a home computer.  In earlier years, people walked to get from place to place, then came horse and buggy, then gasoline powered vehicles and now the car dealers market a vehicle running on batteries.  When our ancestors were young, bedtime occurred at sunset for no electricity existed; then, came electricity to allow for more time in our days. 

It becomes overwhelming when we try to keep up with the Joneses!  Society continually changes products to better suit our needs we did not even know existed before viewing a commercial or reading in a magazine.  Our flesh is never satisfied, always searching for happiness. 

One thing stays constant, One person never changes, One Law exist for us to stand firm on and One Book will satisfy everything.  God never changes, His character flawless and His Word ever true.  His Word provides The Way for every generation, before, now and in the ones to come. 

"in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.  The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace." (Romans 8:4-6)

"For the word of the LORD is right and true;
   he is faithful in all he does.
The LORD loves righteousness and justice;
   the earth is full of his unfailing love." (Psalm 33:4-5)

"We will not hide them from their descendants;
   we will tell the next generation
the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD,
   his power, and the wonders he has done.

so the next generation would know them,
   even the children yet to be born,
   and they in turn would tell their children." (Psalm 78:4,6) 

Let us not keep up with Joneses; yet, let us keep up with His Word.  I am comforted in knowing I can rely on His Truth.  I am not much on change.  My possessions lag behind in this electronic world, I stepped off the fashion train years ago and I lack the beauty products that enhance what God provided.  I am okay with that.  The energy and time it takes to keep up with all this does not seem worth it to me.  Let us use that energy to serve and place all our time in His hands.  Oh, the places He will take you.  The times He will use you and the joy you will feel exceeds your imagination.  He will use you in mighty ways if only time is given to Him.  You can always rely on Him.  He is constant, never changing, all-knowing, all-powerful and always present!  He shines for you, His creation!

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for the assurance of Your unfailing love and Truth.  I rest in Your hands, knowing You will never leave me nor forsake me.  You do not require anything but my belief and time.  I believe in You and my days are in Your hands.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig



Listen, Obey and Go!

So, say you stay in first grade for a few years, then move to second for a few more and end in third grade.  You really feel comfortable in third grade and decide to just hang there for the rest of your schooling career.  Would you learn anything new?  Would you ever receive a diploma?  Could you move on with your skills to obtain a career, have a family, buy a house or receive your license?

No!  Without advancing in school, your mind never grows and your knowledge becomes stagnate.  Yes you may feel comfortable and can ace every test given, but do you really want to limit yourself.  The possibilities are endless if only you will step into the unknown which lay in the next grade level.  With each year that passes, your abilities and wisdom open up more doors and take you places you never imagined.

"Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God," (Hebrews 6:1)

"Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction;
   pay attention and gain understanding.  I give you sound learning,
   so do not forsake my teaching." (Proverbs 4:1-2)

Just as we advance in grade level to learn more each year, God yearns for us to advance in faith to learn more and grow closer to Him.  With each lesson received, God sends us further in our journey to spread this lesson to those placed in our path.  God opens doors with each step in obedience and stretches our faith a little more.  We can not imagine the places He will lead, we need only obey and soak in His Word.

Yes, our current position may be comfortable and we feel just right in our schedule, but God does not want to keep you there.  He advances you as you listen and obey.  As you learn more about His character, He will reveal the gifts and talents given to you at creation. 

I am guilty of this very thing.  As I stepped in faith down the road of recovery from Anorexia, I became comfortable, even stagnate in faith.  I kept my learning honed in only on ways to break free from bondage or seeing myself the way God sees me.  Yes, I needed to grow strong in these teachings and really understand the lessons, but when I got them, God wanted me to move forward to others areas in my life which needed growth and healing.  He asked me to move and take the lessons already learned to help others in my path AND continue to grow in my faith. 

It is so easy to fall into the same old patterns.  I must keep focused to learn all about Him and His Promises for every area in my life.  Moving in His Timing allows for each of us to grow stronger and provide comfort for those around us with the comfort we received from Him.  He wants to touch every segment of your soul and will continue to teach until the day Jesus comes.  Let Him be your Teacher and take you places you never imagined.  Lift up your anxieties concerning the unknown, for He will provide strength and will not leave you alone.  Comfortable living, stagnate faith and living in our zone must be eliminated from our lives.  Listen, obey and go!

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for all the lessons.  Keep my mind, soul and body moving in Your direction.  Let me not grow weary, stagnate, complacent or fearful of growth.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

The Media Destoys the Spirit

From the beginning of childhood through elderly years, the media feeds our minds with lies. . .

     -children play with a doll that in human form would die malnourished and be in a wheel chair due to dispropotioned body weight.  Her legs could not support her.
     -preteens roam through shopping malls and enter stores with half dressed models on the walls which are airbrushed, altered bodies. 
     -teens watch TV, rank themselves by comparison to the latest fashions, strive to be like the person sitting across from them at lunch and work to attain the body seen in magazines and models (which weigh 23 percent less than the average woman in society).
     -boys strive to be strong, agile, gain muscle definement, wear the good looking clothes and smell just right for the girls to come a little closer.  They see the girls make over the latest singer, athlete or movie star and compete for attention.
     -middle age seek to find the latest diet to keep from gaining the "freshmen 15", losing metabolism after 30 or simply wanting to be a certain number to attract a significant other.
     -as one gets older, they look to stop the aging process with a cream or a surgery.  And they dare not leave the house without covering blemishes/wrinkles with lots of makeup.

Satan loves to hear all these messages feeding the spirit of our being.  With each lie implanted in our mind, his foothold grows bigger.  Unfortunately, God's Truth slips further away.  How do we stop this madness?  What can we do to build each other up and see the true beauty within ourselves?  When will we stop believing the mirror and start believing His Word?

"Let the king be enthralled by your beauty;
   honor him, for he is your lord." (Psalm 45:11)

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
   but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised."

(Psalm 31:30)

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes.  Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight." (1 Peter 3:3-4)

 

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." (2 Corinthians 4:16-17) 

I have not set foot in a mall for years, but went with my mom and sister yesterday and walked away disturbed.  Girls in lingerie, bras and underwear plastered the walls of the mall.  The walls advertised a new store coming soon.  Wow, really?  Our little girls and boys do not ignore these images.  The boys may believe half dressed, small and petite equals beauty and look only at appearance to feel attraction to another.  The girls may feel a need to live up to the size of this model and if they do not, then they will remain alone and unworthy of a second glance.  Certain "health food" stores no longer advertise the vitamins and nutritious items needed to nourish our bodies; they advertise body building, endurance enhancing products and pills to increase metabolism.  They sell pills to rid your body of the food you eat so to not gain weight from it.  Or their shelves stock items to supplement meals. 

Advertising draws others in by using words such as sexy, thin, get ripped, feel better or look better.  Really?  Do you think a pill will create beauty or increase your worth?  NO!  These are all lies which society shoves down our throats at the youngest of ages.  Begin to replace each lie with His Truth - He is enthralled by the beauty of His Creation (that is YOU!), He created YOU in His image, YOUR inner beauty is unfading (this is where your worth is found), Eternal glory far outweighs a bad hair day or a number on the scale!!!  YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND HANDSOME IN THE EYES OF YOUR MAKER!!!

Don't avoid these messages or images.  Speak to the younger generation about them.  Bring out the lies and build others up with His Truth.  God did not create us in a factory setting.  He did not produce uniform products.  He made no mistakes when He carefully knit each of us together in the womb.  Each one of His Works show perfection.  Praise Him for loving each of us enough to create variety.  Praise Him for your body, your purpose and focus on the worth found only through Him.  As we age, our shell wrinkles, sags, grows tired and some things quit working; BUT, know this with each day that passes, God renews your soul to prepare you to come and be with Him for Eternity.  Keep focused on the prize.  

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for breathing life into this little ole girl.  I spent way too many years looking in all the wrong directions for worth.  All I needed to do was look up and see Your hand reaching out to hold.  Thank You for not giving up on me with each time I denied Your Truth.  Fill me with Your Word so I may continue to combat every lie of this world.  Use me as a vessel for Your Truths.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig