Have a Fabulous Day Today!

How are you doing today?  What concerns weigh heavily on your mind?  How can I help you today?

Sometimes, we would love for the person sitting next to us, the one living in our home with us or a friend to call and ask these three questions above.  We love to feel the presence of one with 'skin on' in our lives and see concerning faces for our well-being.  Often, we so desperately need the load taken from our shoulders so we can continue moving on throughout our days.

Well, my friend, if you need a hug today; raise your arms up to the sky.

"Shout for joy, you heavens;
   rejoice, you earth;
   burst into song, you mountains!
For the LORD comforts his people
   and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." (Isaiah 49:13)

If you need a conversation with a friend over coffee, brew your favorite, sit down and talk.

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." (1 John 5:14-15)

If your heart weighs heavily and your thoughts lost in worry, cast all that away and place it in the hands of God.

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6-7)

If you need a break and feel overwhelmed, let go of it all.  Stop, take a deep breath and know that He will see you through.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” (Mark 10:27)

No matter the situation, troubles, concerns or needs; He is the answer.  You need not wait on Him to get home from work, call upon you or speak first.  He remains beside you always, never hangs up and loves to open up the conversation first.  His hands remain open and arms out wide to hug and ready to help.  What's the catch?  You must turn toward Him.  He is the only way to everlasting peace and freedom from our pain or sorrow.

Call upon Him FIRST and He will send reinforcements with 'skin on' if needed.  Who better else to help than our God?  He knows all the answers, comforts with such empathy and loves like none other.  So, tell God how you are doing today, allow Him to lift your burdens and let Him know how He can help.  Have a fabulous day with God!

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for loving me without end.  Thank You for all the hugs, conversations and help.  You are amazing!  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

The Perfect Ingredient

During the holiday events food seems to take center stage over conversations or decor.  Chefs/bakers pride themselves on the finished project.  Those enjoying the process of creating a dish desire one sound during the meal, “Mmmmmmm!”  Feeding others becomes the method of displaying love.  And during the holidays, love can be shown every time you turn the corner.  We work overtime in the kitchen for four months creating the best dish we know how for every event consuming our calendars.

I enjoy cooking more so than baking (there is a difference).  I love searching recipes, spinning off the printed ingredients to accommodate the likes/dislikes of my family and even creating my own recipe.  Preparing a dish comes with pressure for success.  Everyone possesses different taste buds; therefore, what one may love, the other may run to the garbage to spit it out.  The possibility of failure exists each time we sit around the table.  The cool part about cooking is the ability to taste test the product.  Once done or even while cooking you can grab a spoon full.  Then, you may add any lacking ingredient (i.e., salt, pepper, oregano, garlic, etc.).  No one be the wiser because once the dish hit the table the taste is satisfying. 

On the other hand, while baking you have one shot to get it right.  No chances to taste test the product.   Be it pies, cookies, bread, biscuits or another pastry; you cannot taste midway and see if more sugar, oil, flour or any ingredient need be added.  You simply, mix, bake and hope for the best.  In comes a greater risk for failure at the dinner table.  May be the reason I like cooking more so than baking. . .

I often wish I could taste test a decision in life before going full force into a situation or presenting it to loved ones.  Sitting down, looking at the whole picture and testing it out would provide opportunity to tweak the plan wherever deemed necessary.  Then before leaping into the life changing decision, shifting the path along the way or taking on that overwhelming project I could have everything aligned and in perfect order to be satisfying.  No fear of failure because I know the end product. 

Well, my friend, life is much more baking than cooking.  Situations arise, decisions need be made and days lived without taste testing.  We have no idea what tomorrow will bring or how a situation will pan out.  I have endless stories consumed with decisions which sent me to the garbage can to spit them out.  Failure appears in my past, present and I am sure will in the future.  Without full knowledge and wisdom no human can create the perfect plan for life.  Something will be missing every time. . .unless you grab hold of One perfect ingredient!

God holds the future.  He knows the end product because He provided the perfect amount of ingredients enabling us to perform any task He planned.  So, without Him, we will continue to fail.  He will guide our feet in the right direction.  Cool part about our God; should we fail to ask Him on a decision made and it crumble right in front of us, He provides enough grace to turn it out for good as we come to Him in repentance.  No matter the failure, He stands with open arms to recreate the situation and make it a fabulous end product. 

Wherever you may be today in life, be it gathering all information to make a decision, in the midst of a decision or at the end of a failed decision, He is there to take you and help you!  Reach to Him!  Lay it all at the cross and be amazed at His work! 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig                 

Our Coach is Stronger Than Our Opponent

An athlete attends practice; gains all the skills needed for a game, purchases equipment and works hard to earn time in the game.  An athlete is dedicated and motivated to follow the leading of the coach.  An athlete focuses on pleasing the coach.

When game day arrives, the athlete enters the locker room and dresses appropriately.  The team runs on the field/court and warms up a bit with some basic skills.  The time comes to begin the game.  The first second ticks down and the players begin to fight for victory.

Each player does not know how long they have in the game.  None are aware of what is to come next from the other team.  Sure, they know how they will react and how to run their plays; but, remain unaware of the opponents' level of skill or strategies.  The player must be ready at all times.

Many factors could terminate an athlete's career.  An injury could occur.  The coach feels it is time for the athlete to take a seat next to him/her.  The game may become too difficult for the athlete to bear and they feel the only way out is to quit.  An athlete never knows when the last dribble will be made, the last pass thrown, the last base touched, the last hurdle made or the last goal kicked.  The player must play every second of the game with 100% as if it were their last.

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.
Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives" (2 Peter 3:10-11)

He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.  But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
(Acts 1:7-8)

We do not know of the time left in the game.  We know not of the schemes and level of evil that will come next from Satan.  We must remain aware and cling to God at all times.  He is our Coach.

Our Coach set up everything for us here on Earth.  He brought each player into life to perform a specific play or duty for His team.  He provides all the equipment and instruction we need in His Truth.  As we obey and show He can trust us with what is given; He advances the game.  We must live for our Coach and use His Holy Spirit to guide every move.  It is then; we know our work will result in victory for our God.

Only our Coach knows the times of those we meet daily.  Use every moment to build His team.  Spread His Truth, be witnesses for Him and teach others the tools and equipment needed to enter the game.  Our common enemy lurks around to try and take our team down, but our Coach is stronger than the enemy.  Rely on the Coach and listen to Him.  Play every moment with 100% faith and believe in our Coach.  We know not of the length of time here.  Cherish each breath.

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for the loved ones surrounding my every day.  I am here to be on Your team.  Teach me every day of the skills needed to perform the plays You have planned for my time here.  I thank You for every breath I take in and every chance I have to spread Your Truth.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig      

Thanks and Praise

Time
Honor
A hug
Note
Kindness
Sweets

Here are just six ways to give thanks to each other here on Earth.  Spending time with a loved one can be the greatest display of appreciation.  Show honor to those who serve to create an enjoyable life for us.  Sharing a hug will warm the hearts of others.  Sending a note full of kindness will help express the gratitude in a keepsake form.  Serve another sweets and I am sure their heart will feel the love and thanks.  Use these methods and remember to show thanks.

"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.  I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." (Ephesians 1:16-17)

"I thank my God every time I remember you.  In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy." (Philippians 1:3-4)

Have you ever thought about giving thanks to the One who sacrificed His only Son so you may live?  The greatest gift given to us and we often go through a whole day without lifting up appreciation.  How can we ever offer up enough thanks to our Father for what He has done?

Prayer
Rejoice
Ask
Invite
Seek
Educate

Here are just six ways to do so every day.  He only asks to hear from you, for you to believe in Him and trust His guidance.  To give back; spend time in prayer, shout out and rejoice in His name, send up an invite to consume your day or ask for His guidance.  Show your faith by seeking Him in all situations.  Share His Truths by educating others of His teachings.  Spread His love to others and further His Kingdom.  Fulfill the purpose He places on your life and He will smile upon you and pour blessings out to you.

"I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness;
   I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High." (Psalm 7:17)

"He sent out his word and healed them;
   he rescued them from the grave.
Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love
   and his wonderful deeds for mankind.
Let them sacrifice thank offerings
   and tell of his works with songs of joy." (Psalm 107:20-22)

God, thank you for this day.  Thank You for sending loved ones into my life every day.  Teach me how to give thanks to those who show love to me.  Keep my eyes open to the ways others help me and to the blessings You pour on my life.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Growing Up!

The season arrived. . .basketball!  My husband officiates high school level basketball games.  We often tag along to watch.  My heart races as I smell the popcorn, hear the roar of the crowd, squeaking shoes, the echo of dribbling balls and the sweet sound of the whistle to begin the game.  I love basketball and everything that goes with it.  The game brings back the memories of a healthy young girl passionate about an activity, feeling confident in herself.  I loved and still love playing the game (now more so because it is the only game I can beat my husband in!). 

The kids and I decided to go to the first game of the local boy’s season.  The game began typical. . .my son sat quietly watching the game, my daughter continually in need of something due to her boredom.  Less than four minutes into the first quarter, it happened!  A little boy waved at my daughter and asked for her to sit next to him.  He held an iPad in hand which stole her heart and attention instantly.  She left me for an iPad and a friend!  Still in eye’s view, other friends joined the party of giggles and gossip!  Okay, I am happy for her to have such good friends and have fun.  I still have my son to talk the game over with and appreciate the skills each player displayed.  Just before halftime, it happened!  My son’s best friend arrived only to steal him from me as well.  So, there I sat childless and able to focus on the game.  Sounds like I should be happy, right?  No snacks to pick up as a kid misses their mouth, no one tugging on me to take them to the restroom, no arguments amongst siblings and no dispensing money to the concession stand; but, this mom became sad!  I failed to know how to act without the chaos described in the previous sentence. 

I shared the moment with a friend behind me and she simply said, “That is a sign they are growing up.”  But wait a minute, no one asked me if they could grow up this fast.  I am not ready for this.  My son beginning to look at girls in a different manner than disgusting, too cool to sit beside mom/dad, no need for chaperoning field trips any longer and taking care of his daily needs.  My daughter now dresses herself, holding a desire to pick out outfits without help, venturing off with friends at a game, no longer needing me by her side and experiencing peer pressure at school.  This is inevitable.  I cannot stop the process, only help create a smoother path along the way by building them daily based on His Truth, disciplining in love, guiding with a loose enough grip for them to feel independent and cherishing every moment spent with each child.

My friends, God does the same for each of His children.  Listen closely and He will build you with Truth, discipline in love, guide each step and cherish each moment spent with Him creating a smoother path in life.  Each moment you spend with Him will not be wasted.  He desires a relationship, one that binds you so close to Him that the roar of the crowd cannot drown out His Word.  He asks that you watch quietly at times while He works diligently to make the game just right before blowing the whistle to start playing it out. 

Early in the journey we begin immature and being carried by God through the trials and tribulations faced daily.  As His Truth imprints on our hearts, we begin walking hand in hand with God.  Even further down the journey, we walk next to God making decisions based on the Truth He taught yet still needing Him in a different way.  It is a sign we are growing up in our Christian walk.  He stands proud and asks that you now bring others to join Him and celebrate freedom! 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree  Craig

Become a Sponge

Children try to decipher this life.  Throughout school, rules and guidelines exist to teach them proper behavior.  While at home, rules and guidelines exist to teach them respect and life skills.  No place exists for them to go and live carelessly, without structure.  An adult is present everywhere to help, guide, teach, discern right from wrong and comfort them if they make a mistake.

Children resemble sponges when it comes to learning.  A sponge, when dry, yearns for water and when available; the sponge sucks it in so quickly to be filled to the point of overflowing.  A child yearns to figure out this world and how things work.  As a new situation approaches, a child seeks out solutions, knowledge and skills available to learn.  

Without rules, guidelines or teachings, our children would walk around aimlessly.  Their faces would appear lost, unaware of the proper solutions to problems.  They would not have the capability to discern right from wrong.  Children need adults to help them grow up and go out into this world.

Wait!  There is more. . . 

But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can't keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don't have what it takes. I can will it, but I can't do it. I decide to do good, but I don't really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don't result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.

It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.

I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question?   (Romans 7:17-24)  The Message

As children try all they can to do right, the power of peer pressure faces them everyday.  We teach, guide and tell them the rules, but we cannot be everywhere to save them from things OF this world.  The pressures surround them and often they fall victim.  As adults, the same thing happens in us.  We know right from wrong, but the pressures OF this world, the lies of the enemy and the sinful choices all around us may get the better of us.  We fall victim every day and fall short of the Glory of God.  How can we, as adults find help?  Choices may lead us further down the road leading to destruction and when we hit rock bottom, who will save us?  Whose hand will reach out and pull us from our pits?

Wait!  Don't give up. . .

The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different. (Romans 7:25) The Message

God is right there.  He will take you and guide you.  He will pick you up when you fall, brush you off and lead you to the way everlasting.  Quit walking around aimlessly, without help.  Reach up to God in all situations and He will take care of you.  Be a sponge for the wisdom and laws of God.  Soak up His Truth daily and overflow with joy.  God will fight every battle with Truth.  The closer your walk, the more Truth fed into your spirit; the stronger you will become.  The enemy will always lose when you have God as your Protector.  

God, thank you for today.  Thank You for taking me in Your hands and guiding me, teaching me, and loving me every day.  I know I get things wrong, make mistakes or fail in the work asked of me.  I am here to learn.  Thank You for picking me back up and dusting me off to keep on keeping on!  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Accepting God's Friend Request

Networking is the current goal.  In doing so, I expanded and engaged into more social media.  There should be a college course on navigation and how to best utilize these sites (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.).  Thankfully I live with an expert on the three media sources I currently use.  It seems the way to go when trying to spread any information with others.  Good Christian messages, uplifting thoughts and encouragement finds its way into the pages of media each day.  The Internet is today’s way of reaching others and spreading the Good News. 

I decided to send a message to a dear friend via Facebook.  The process made easy due to the setup of the site.  To the right, pictures appear of those recently visiting the site and even places a time next to them to inform viewers of how long it has been since they were using the site.  One simple click and options pop up to send a message straight to receiver’s computer.  So, I sent a message which then took me to another screen only displaying the current conversation.  Immediately, my friend’s profile picture appeared in the corner under the message with a dialogue balloon filled by an eclipse (. . .) to show she was responding.  I was excited to catch her at just the right time so our conversation could flow back and forth.  The indication allows receiver to know a response is on its way!

Cool part about Facebook though; if the receiver is currently away from the site, an alert sound will indicate when a message comes back to you.  Therefore, you can be anywhere with the device and respond when hearing the alert.  You can go on with business as usual instead of waiting to see the message. 

What if God was one of your Facebook friends?  Just think about it. . .you could wake up, grab a cup of coffee and visit His profile to see “What’s on His mind?”  Scrolling through the past posts you will discover all the great accomplishments He performed, you know, like helping David beat Goliath, remaining with Paul while in prison, healing the sick, bringing sight to the blind, helping the deaf hear, creating good out of Joseph’s situation, guiding Israel to the Promised Land despite their uncooperative nature, etc.  Scanning His photos, you may see the construction project performed in the beginning of time. . .creating the World and all that is in it.  You may come across and album created just for you.  The album may describe how He touched each fiber of your being while in the womb creating you beautiful and wonderful.  You will see His friend list includes thousands, but still needs more.  You could help by suggesting, reposting His Promises and spreading the Good News to others on Facebook. 

But, think about the coolest part of being His friend on Facebook; seeing when He is available to talk and even knowing the moment He will respond.  Also, His profile photo would confirm that it is indeed Him responding to your message.  And if you became busy with life, an alert would tell you He is responding to the message.  How convenient.  But, does this require faith, build a relationship or strengthen the spirit?  No, not really!

We need to take time and sit with God.  Not through a computer screen or device; just a Bible and Him!  He remains available 24/7 and though answers do not return immediately, He works diligently on the requests given in prayer.  He holds our future and knows the best solutions to each struggle, trial or tribulation presented in this world.  Go to Him in prayer, have faith in a response, build a relationship with our Creator through conversation and time and your spirit will strengthen more than you can imagine. 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig          

Martha or Mary?

As I prepare for guests to come visit my home, I become somewhat anxious.  I create a list in my head of what needs to be cleaned and plan out the menu.  This must be completed or my mind cannot rest at ease and enjoy the moment.  In these times, I desire perfection.  Guess what?  It AIN'T going to happen. 

I was reminded this morning about Mary and Martha.  How can you be a Mary in a Martha world?  Well, many women struggle with this thought (maybe the reason why a whole book was written on the matter).  It is funny this comes up in my study time this morning because I just spent the night before stressing and overwhelming myself with trying to complete my list I created in my head.  No good comes from me when my mind is focused on worldly things, such as a clean house.  My family suffers and I only bring more stress on myself because of the guilt from poisonous words I spat at the family. 

 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things,  but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

Wow, did that scripture jump off the page at me today.  Mary chose something better - to kneel at the Lord's feet and listen to what He said.  She was ready to hear what her guest had to say and focus all attention on Him.  Martha, on the other hand, continued running around cleaning, preparing the meal and completing all the tasks she saw fit.  She complained to the Lord and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 

OUCH!! I believe I spoke those words just last night, only replace sister with husband.  My husband enjoys our home, plays with the kids and laughs the night away with them.  Meanwhile, I walk around the house 'perfecting' everything and cleaning until exhaustion.  Hmmm, which sounds better?

I am depriving myself of God's blessings by focusing on worldly desires and the approval of my guests.  I do not think my guests will come wearing white gloves so they may inspect my home and see if any dust or dirt appears.  If weather cooperates, they will only be in one or two rooms in my home.  Why do I focus so much on what others think of me?  I am here to serve God, not man (see Galatians 1:10) - one of my favorite verses which I need to read DAILY or HOURLY.

I need to check my focus today and assure it is on God and serving Him.  He wants me to enjoy my guests, enjoy the home He allows me to borrow while on Earth and the family He blessed me with.  What good am I to Him if I run around trying to win humans approval?  

Thank you God for today.  May I focus on You and take each step as You direct.  May all my actions serve You, not man.  May everything I do and say be all of You and none of me.  Be my hands and feet today so I may show others Your love and teach Your Truths.  Take all my anxiety away and allow me to enjoy Your blessings poured over me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

With Faith, Confidence and Attention

After completing what might have been the toughest two years of my life, I sit with a diploma in one hand and a license in the other.  The diploma says, “I did it,” the license says, “Go do it.”  Yet, still my mind says “I can’t.”  Thoughts race and the enemy creeps in with lies – “You just wasted two years of your life,” “You will never accomplish the desires of your heart,” or “You ventured off the path and now created a foothold for me.”  The world would like me to believe these lies, but Truth stands firm against them. 

I began a job and wore down every piece of energy possessed.  My thoughts could not even come together clearly.  Exhausted emotionally and physically, I began to feel like a failure.  I could not perform needed tasks at home or work and my fingers slipped further away from the reason I entered nursing school.  I did not understand, felt lost and broken.  Then, after crying out to God with true desire and faith in Him, an answer appeared.  Through a daily devotion, the above Scripture jumped off the page and seeped into my heart. 

Ask: through prayer God hears the desires our hearts hold onto so strongly.  Prayers lifted without faith are only words slipping off the tongue.  Faith requires believing His Word laid out neatly for all to read.  He hears every prayer, holds onto those words and views the whole picture to assure it works with His plan for our life.  He will never straight up say no. . .He considers the prayer and may deem it unnecessary to answer at this time.  Patience may be required of us.  All in His timing; therefore, we must not lose hope.  He works all things out for the good of those who love Him.

Seek: well, we cannot just sit and do nothing.  Work like it depends on you (as my husband would say)!  Put yourself out there after praying about the situation.  The world can be a scary place, but He has overcome the world.  No need to fear while seeking out the desires of the heart.  He will never lead you where His grace, love and safety do not cover.  He holds a plan and purpose for each of our lives which will be accomplished and carried out here on Earth. 

Knock: your desires will remain unknown when left inside the heart.  Knocking on doors, spreading ideas and gathering information from all options allows Him to work at a greater capacity.  Leaving doors closed limits the building of His Kingdom.  Listen closely as you knock to assure it is Him behind the door waiting to open this opportunity for you.  There is a time for everything.

I am not sure where you may be in your journey. . .but, let’s take today my friend and begin to ask with faith, seek with confidence and knock with attention.  He brings us through the toughest of storms only to use them later to further His Kingdom.  You can do all things through Him who give you strength. 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig       

One Glitch

Since moving to our new home a new family member joined the Craig team.  Weighing in at 3.3 pounds, red curly fur and big brown eyes, our little teacup poodle wiggled its way into each of our hearts.  I long for the moment to sit down and have her rest peacefully in my lap.  Never being a dog owner, I did not realize how they become another family member and love overflows for them. 

Her brilliance amazes as she learns new tricks and rules quickly.  My son taught her how to fetch a ball within minutes.  I taught her to come in from outside and sit on a rug made to clean dog’s feet until receiving a treat.  Also, the moment I say, “Go watch for the kids,” she runs to the door awaiting a big yellow bus to come down our street.  The instant yellow catches her eye; she jumps a foot off the floor in excitement to have them home again.  When bedtime rolls around she prances directly to her bed and lies down.  Dogs act humanlike in various ways.

One glitch appears in her brilliant streak. . .she cannot discern real from fake.  One day I turned quickly as she began barking wildly in the kitchen (she does not bark often).  I found her in front of the oven barking continuously with an occasional growl thrown in there.  She caught site of her reflection on the oven door and believed it to be another dog in our home.  Forgot to mention, she despises other dogs and animals.  We will be watching TV and a commercial with animals airs and she goes crazy barking.  The most worked up I have seen is when a cat appeared on TV.  She fears the other animal is creeping into her territory and immediately goes on defense.  Our response is, “Silly puppy, it isn’t real.”  Yet every time, it occurs.  She cannot realize the images are just that, images, not real.  Could this be one of those humanlike characteristics? . . .

Oh, so often in life we experience this same glitch.  FEAR: False Evidence Appearing Real.  We fear a variety of things, leading to worry which consumes every waking moment.  Worry steals joy creating a foothold for the enemy to grab hold of our spirit.  Bondage halts life and we begin to lose sight of His plan.  A snowball effect beginning with one little glitch: inability to discern real from fake. 

Fear sneaks in my thoughts often.  It comes when thinking about the future, venturing into larger crowds, saying yes to God’s plan, beginning a project or making a decision.  The basis for fear consuming me is failure.  “What if I fail?”  No one wants to fail at anything.  I fear failure, therein disappointing loved ones, possibly losing their acceptance of me.  As the devil works to destroy my spirit, I put on the armor of God and feed Truth into the situation.  Realizing the thought of failure is just that, a thought, not real leads to freedom from the enemy’s hold. 

Our little puppy barks ferociously at images on the TV all the while backing up and running to me for comfort.  As I ease her mind that the images are not real and no dog/cat/animal invades her territory she calms.  As I hold her convincing it will all be okay she stops barking.  And as she sees the images disappear she believes what I said.

Each time we fear, we must run.  Not run from a situation per say but run to the One Who will comfort and speak Truth into every situation.  He will hold us tightly eliminating one worry at a time.  He will show us love, provide strength and see us through any situation.  Our faith grows through each hardship as we lean on Him Who will destroy the devil’s hold on the situation.  We can then clearly discern real from fake and understand the direction we should take. 

Thank You God for providing Truth to combat fear creeping into our lives.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig                 

"America Bless God"

As I walk down our street I notice something disturbing, garbage everywhere.  I guess I missed the memo that the street is now our garbage can.  I failed to see the letter from Rumpke saying, "Just throw your garbage out along the street wherever you may be driving or walking and we will pick it up."  Also, I hear from others about the cruel actions of others, the killings, the robberies and other heinous crimes which exist in this world (side note: Dora invaded my TV, so I am unable to watch firsthand).  Do you really think God is smiling down on these things?

God provided this wonderful world for us to borrow and use during our time here.  He entrusted all these blessings to us, His Children.  What disrespect we display when we trash the land, defile our bodies and/or harm one another.  This reminds me of the story of Noah.  We should all be as obedient and loving as this man.

The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.  The LORD regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled.  So the LORD said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.”  But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.  (Genesis 6:5-8)

I don't know about you, but I don't want any of my actions to cause God to regret making this world for His Children to enjoy.  Would you just throw garbage down on your living room floor, steal from your neighbor so as to pay your bills, kill a person for looking at you wrong or force one of God's People to take part in something they strongly said NO to?  We are all Children of God and we must respect our Maker.  He worked diligently on every feature and character of ours.  He is everywhere and knows us completely (see Psalm 139).

He provided all these treasures here for us to enjoy.  Keep His land clean, treat others as you want to be treated, love, give not take, respect yourself (God does not make junk) and praise God for every breath He provides.  Others will see the joy in your life, the blessings received due to your obedience to God.  Your radiance will spread and God will continue to pull on other's hearts so they may see His Way, His Truth and His Life.  This world is in need of Christian behavior and God deserves more respect.

My husband and I once saw a billboard stating, "America Bless God" with a bald eagle crying.  I did not understand and the words just did not click until we discussed in our small group how the national anthem states, "God Bless America."  Well, why would God bless America if America is not respecting, loving, obeying and blessing God?

God thank you for today.  Thank you for trusting me here on earth with so much.  I pray for obedience, for the strength to show my faith and stand behind it when faced daily with this broken world.  I pray my light may shine and infest this world so Your Children may see and choose the straight path You provide.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Forward or Backward?

Reminiscing on a family trip to Disney brought us to the time of riding a huge roller coaster.  The coaster was not an ordinary around a few curves, up a hill or two and slowly returning back to the beginning kind of coaster.  This one played out a story of a snow monster (Yeti) chasing the coaster in hopes to destroy the tracks and all the people in the cars.  Suspense surrounded, darkness fell over the ride and off we went. 

It began slow and steady.  Hands held high, we took a few curves and enjoyed the scenery.  As speeds increased, hands took hold of the handlebar.  Loose grip moved to white knuckles while the coaster whipped and pivoted around the track.  The ride came to a halt with what appeared to be broken tracks ahead.  The Yeti tore apart the rest of the track, leaving us stranded.  What else could we do but go backwards where we came from; yet, the ride did not take the same path back down.  This time, the track contained more curves, higher speeds and steeper hills.  Screams accompanied the white knuckles.  Finally, we turned around and ventured forward able to see where the track led and leaving the Yeti in our dust.  As the ride neared the station, speeds slowed and the grip loosened.  We checked on one another to see how we survived the experience. 

Exiting the ride, we shared feelings and thoughts about the ride overall.  To some, it was awesome; others, it was torturous; and still others weren’t sure what to think about it yet.  Looking back, I loved the thrill of the ride and realized through it all we truly were safe.  Men worked diligently placing the tracks specifically in place, with sturdy construction and testing the ride numerous times before allowing people to board.  All riders eventually return safely back to the station, secure in their seats with no harm done.  This happens over and over daily.

Life can resemble a huge roller coaster.  The story played out each season never seems “ordinary” or “safe”.  I feel as though I am chased by one trying to destroy the tracks leading the way and take me down with it.  Each day surrounded with fear of what’s to come and timid reactions. 

The day begins slow and steady as I get ready in the comforts of home while enjoying the quiet environment.  Speeds increase the moment feet hit pavement and I reach for something to grip.  The day whips and pivots here and there leaving my head spinning.  A break may come midday to gain composure; yet, looking ahead ruins the moment, for the tracks finishing out the day appear broken and destroyed.  Stranded, without hope, I slide backward and reach for things that helped cope in the past.  I find they bring comfort and peace but not for long and the track they lead to contains worse conditions than where I started.  I cry out, hands raised high!

God hears my cry and takes my hand.  He turns the destroyed tracks into a straight path and leads me to peace.  He guides each move and decision, opening my eyes and leaving the enemy in the dust.  The day seems to slow down though life continues to go on around me.  I no longer need to grip tightly to the world, for my God is in control.  He keeps me safe through every twist and turn.  He worked diligently placing the path for my life, with sturdy construction He planned every moment and equipped me while in my mother’s womb to handle each day.  Relying on Him daily will lead me safely back to Home once work here is done. 

Moral of the story: as we rely on our Maker each day, we need not worry of what’s to come.  The enemy does prowl around in hopes to destroy our days and the path leading us Home.  Let go of the grip held on this world and let God lead the way safely, slowly to Him.  The ride is much less scary, intense or intolerable.  Keeping eyes on Him brings purpose to every day, whether appearing to be a good day or a bad day.  He will not lead you anywhere you are not capable of surviving.  Speaking from experience; I spent too many years riding the roller coaster backward. . .forward, eyes looking up makes for a much better ride. 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Task Driven?

Alarm rings, feet hit the ground running and the day begins.  When signing the birth certificate of a child you inherit countless responsibilities.  The days of sleeping in vanish, clean homes transform to one huge playroom, spotless windows now marked by tiny handprints and couches no longer used for rest.  As the years go by the tasks include driving from practice to practice, packing lunches for school, meeting teachers for a conference and worrying continuously of how this will all turn out.  Again, tasks shift as your child begins driving, dating and attending parties without you by their side.  Responsibility for your child remains until the day we meet our Maker. 

Daily routines may become mundane.  Alarm rings and you begin going through the motions.  The tasks overtake the hours and often overwhelm our souls.  The worry may consume our thoughts, being the driving force of our emotions.  Parents often succumb to this lifestyle and focus only on completing the daily tasks.  Our minds lose sight of the emotional needs of our child.  We forget how to have fun and just relax. 

I noticed this the other day when my daughter asked me to come lay with her and watch a show before I went to work.  My first reaction, “I can’t, I have so much ‘stuff’ to get done before leaving.”  Supper, dishes, pack lunches, clean some of the house, fold laundry, etc. topped my to do list.  How could I take time and just lay down watching TV when numerous ‘things’ sit undone?  Almost immediately, I felt a nudge!  That nudge reminded me to quit being a task driven mother and just be a mother.  Chores can wait, supper need not be a three or four course meal and plenty of clothes still remain in our closets to wear.  What my daughter needed at the moment was time!  She could care less about eating, clean clothes, a spotless house or what would be in her lunchbox the next day.  Her emotional health ranked number one at this moment.  So, I put some food in the oven and went upstairs to lay and chit-chat with my child.  It felt awesome to focus on my child not my tasks. 

So often we fall in the same trap while walking the straight path.  As a Christian, you may feel the need to complete a specific number of tasks before meeting your Maker.  “Well, God wants me to do good, make a difference, volunteer at every chance given and attend every church service/event scheduled, right?”  We hit the ground running following baptism and work hard at being a Christian.  Numerous lives need salvation, a touch of love and Truth fed to their souls.  True, but God doesn’t desire checklist Christians.  He is not interested in our works.  He does not even tally up the times Christians walk into a church building.  All He desires following salvation are open hands and open hearts.  He loves to hear “Yes” when asking for your help. 

Too often we create a list of tasks that God has not equipped us to complete yet.  Saying yes to every volunteer opportunity and church gathering leaves an individual drained.  Listen closely to God’s desires in your plan.  He holds a special purpose for each day of your lives.  Running from task to task reduces the ability to hear or feel the Holy Spirit.  For example: cookies need baked for a church gathering and you sign up; but, the same day a friend needs a visit due to a difficult time in his/her life.  Well, the cookies need be done at a specific time and then you need to get to the event and help decorate and wait to clean up at the end.  All God’s work, right? . . .maybe, but not for you at this time.  Your friend needs you.  God may have other individuals who need to volunteer at the specific event.  God does not ask for our work to grandiose.  The work done daily need not bring countless individuals to Christ.  He asks to plant one seed at a time and do so in His timing.  Being a task driven Christian can lead to working in our timing.  We need to quit creating a task list and just be His Children.  This means listening closely to Him, increasing sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s nudge and giving Him our time. 

Seek counsel daily and listen to Him.  He will choose your to do list.  The list can change as the hours continue.  But, rest assure, there is a plan and purpose to each step taken, each interruption experienced and each “yes” said for Him.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig