Boojoyful

Dig Deep and Seek the Lord February 27 There are so many elements to our relationship with Jesus.  We have to be proactive for this faith walk to deepen.  Here are some mental and emotional actions we have to apply to the relationship for it to work. Acknowledge our need for Him Accept that He is God Trust He is good. Have Confidence that He knows the future and has a plan. Depend on Him in every situation. Ask Him for assistance in every decision. Thank Him for the way he cares for us and provides for us. Allow His love to pour over us and be still in His Presence. Today, I just stopped and prayed... "Good morning Heavenly Father, Creator of my soul. Today, I rejoice in Your goodness and love for me.  I have total confidence that nothing will come my way today without your foreknowledge. Before I make any decisions remind me to stop and seek Your guidance. Thank You for all the ways you have provided for me before and for the way you w...

February 25-26 In-between praying, I've been fretting a tiny bit over a big situation.  While traveling yesterday, I had six hours alone in the car with Jesus.  I'd wavered between trying to figure things out on my own and trusting that God has this! So, I'm sitting in a left turn lane waiting on this light to turn green. It goes through a whole cycle and skips me.  Thus plenty of time to take out my phone and snap this photo. As I'm considering my options of just running the red light or switching lanes and going to the next intersection, I realize the song lyric on the radio just said...   "Keep your eyes fixed on the light above." Yup, God had my attention and I told him I was trusting him with my every move. At that moment the light turned green. No one can ever convince me that God Almighty isn't aware of every second of our lives! It's 3:00 AM and I've been awake for awhile listening to the Lord. This is what I'm he...

They were rather skeptical when I asked them to follow me...   into the woods for a bear hunt.  "Trust me!" I said. February 24 "Will you just trust me!"  Every parent has said these words at some point.  This past week a couple of our grandsons have been here and had the flu with high, high fever.  Fortunately, their mother arrived back in town when the youngest became sick.  In trying to get this four year old to take Tylenol she said, "Will you just trust me that this will make you feel better?" Some of my very favorite scripture verses are about trust. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."   Proverbs 3:5-6 " But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him."   Jeremiah 17:7 "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God....

February 23 I laughed the other day when a reader emailed me and thanked me for "being real" with what I write in these devotionals.  I thought...will I be real and share photos of a recent  dart/dagger, the devil tosses at me? Those of you who know me personally know I love to laugh and smiles just seem to stay implanted on my face.  Recently, I was in a predicament where it would behoove me not to laugh,  but I couldn't resist.  It was 8:30 on a Saturday night and I was biting into a piece of ginger candy. I looked at my husband and said, "I think my front tooth just came out." With a shell shocked look he said, "Yes, it did!" (It was a tooth which had a root canal years ago.) The major dilemma was that I was to board a plane to Florida the next day to welcome our new grandson into the world. My mind immediately shot to..."You cannot go!"  That thought lasted about five seconds.  The next thought was:  "This is not of eternal valu...

Joy is sprouting from this precious granddaughter and her beautiful mama! A two year old on skates! February 22 For my birthday a friend gave me some tulip bulbs which were just opening up. They were such a joy to watch. The other day I thought... I want something to sprout!  Later that evening, my husband said, "Your daffodils are coming up!"  These 60-70 degree temps in February shout that spring is a coming. (I know, I know, we always get a big March snow.) " Never mind.  My lover s already on his way to his garden, to browse among the flowers, touching the colors and forms. I am my lover's and my lover is mine. He caresses the sweet-smelling flowers." Song of Solomon 6:3 Do our lives put off an image of the hopefulness of what is to come? Is our love for Christ visible to others? God wants something to sprout from us! The radiance of our lives should point to Jesus sprouting out of us, if he's really in there. Sprout- grow, put ...

Thankful for this new little creation. For as much as we love this little one, it's nothing compared to God's love and care. February 21 Fathom - understand a difficult problem or enigmatic person.  A measure of depth. " He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted." Job 9:10 For the past couple weeks I've been battling a very painful Hordeolum (stye) in my lower eyelid. The doctor wanted to operate last week. Shocked by his description of the procedure, the pain involved and facial bruising that will occur due to my stroke med, I asked him...."How do you feel about prayer?" That flew right over his head. He had his nurse schedule surgery for March 2nd, as I was not going to be available before then and told me to continue hot compresses multiple times a day. Compress time has translated into prayer time.  At 4AM the other morning, I was praying for healing with a rice sock on my eye and asking G...

  February 20 While at The Homestead for my birthday celebration in January, this bellman, whose name is Sincere, bestowed this sweet bear and some wonderful chocolates on me as a personal gift. Another bellman told me, that Sincere regularly brings in items he has purchased on his own to give away and bless others.  He said over the holidays he kept a bag of suckers behind the bellman's stand to give to children when they walked through the lobby.  The hospitality business is a good fit for this gentleman. How is God calling us to offer hospitality today? " The life we live and the love we give is by His power and for His glory" Galatians 2:19-20. " The Son of God is the ultimate embodiment of the Good Samaritan. Jesus left heaven to come to us in the form of a man"   Philippians 2:6-8, " to seek us out and meet us in our deepest need-when we were still lying dead in the ditch of our sin" Ephesians 2:1. He left His throne room to rescue us, e...

February 18-19 May these examples of personal notes encourage us to write to someone this weekend. I've encouraged our children to keep a treasure box for our grandchildren of personal notes sent to them. Here is a note from an 8 year old and it says a lot! What is a Grandma? A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own, so she likes other people's little girls. A grandfather is a man grandmother.  He goes for walks with the boys and they talk fishing and things like that. Grandma's don't have anything to do except be there. It is enough if they drive us to the supermarket where the pretend horse is and have lots of dimes ready.  Or if they take us for walks, they should slow down past pretty leaves and caterpillars.  They should never say "hurry up."  Usually they are fat but not too fat to tie kids' shoes. They wear glasses and funny underwear. They can take their teeth and gums out.  It is better if they don'...

February 17 The postmark was 1974 and the postage was 8 cents! In the inside pocket of an old suitcase, I found some letters written by my paternal grandmother and was taken back in time by the handwritten words.  What a lost art letter writing is.  The individuality of each person's handwriting leaves no question to the authenticity of letters, unlike a typed, texted or emailed message. Thank God for his love letter to us.  How greatly embellished our faith is by the written Word. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness."   2 Timothy 3:16 " For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope." Romans 15:4 One of the blessings for me in reading these old letters was to catch glimpses of my grandmother's faith.  She lived in Pennsylvania and I did...

Love this pondering pose. February 16 Ive just come off a concentrated study on Hospitality by She Reads Truth.  More to come on that, but with our focus on love this Valentine's week I had to share a quote from that study. "To truly love God, we must also love people." The SRT writer goes on to say: "Some people are easier to love than others.  Maybe they require less sacrifice, they love us back, or they just caught us in a good mood." Jesus challenges us: "If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus?  Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that." Matthew 5:47  Who is one of the hardest people for you to love?  Ask God to fill you with His Holy Spirit and show you how to pour love upon that person this today!

A joy giver! February 15 Years ago, before he was even married, this thoughtful son surprised me by building a covered nook in our woods. I'd been eyeing one in a catalog for several hundred dollars, so he just built one for me. Now the joy has been passed on as his daughter enjoys climbing up on that seat and ringing the wind chimes hanging inside. If you've never read The Five Love Languages  I highly recommend the read.  You can also go online and take a test to determine your love language or your child's. http://www.5lovelanguages.com God created us to establish connections with one another.  Knowing one another's love language give insight on how to love others well. " This is my command: Love each other."   John 15:17 While the Five Love Languages in the book are: Acts of Service Words of Affirmation Physical Tough Quality Time Gifts The love language God offered us through Jesus was total sacrifice. " For God so ...

Loving on this new grandson has been such a privilege. February14 Happy Valentine's Day to each of you!   Whether you get flowers, chocolates or a card, remember you are loved deeply! " We love because he first loved us. "  1 John 4:19 Lying in bed after a wonderful day of staring at this new grandchild and helping to care for his parents, I had love on my mind. It truly blows my mind how internally woven love is for our children and grandchildren. Serving those you love is a joy. Googling "John Piper's outlook on love," a thought provoking sermon appeared. The title was "The Goal of God's Love May Not be What You Think It Is." "'Christ became a servant...in order that the nations might glorify God for his mercy' (Romans 15:8-9). God has been merciful to us so that we would magnify him.  We see it again in the words, 'In love (God) destined us to adoption...to the praise of the glory of His grace' (Ephesian...

February 13 The past week, I've had the blessing of loving on this new grandson and his parents in Tampa, Florida.  I thank God for this new life.  Caring for a newborn is definitely in my top five favorite life experiences. How I love to hold a miracle in my arms.  If I lived near a hospital, I'd be a volunteer baby rocker for sure. Somewhere recently I was reading how a kiss is the most intimate expression of love. When I hold a newborn, I can't help but kiss on that little head. Numerous passages teach the concept of greeting one another with a holy kiss. (2 Corinthians 13:12) Come to think of this, it's a concept carried out in our home.  When greeting the kids or grands we always embrace and offer a kiss. Europeans kiss on both cheeks!  Watching the 2017 Presidential Inauguration kissing techniques was interesting. Some people used the European double cheek technique with the First Lady and others went with the American, single sided peck. Wh...

February 11-12 A great message on bearing fruit!  She Reads Truth posted this online.... "Look back through John 15. Jesus is not commanding His disciples to bear fruit. The command is to remain. When we remain-when we abide in the never ending, unconditional, forever love of Christ-then the fruit will come. We bear fruit when, and only when, we are grafted into the True Vine. His Holy Spirit in us is the fruit producer; we are simply the branches who have the privilege of displaying His fruit." Here's a fruit bearing challenge from Galatians 6:1 in The Message translation. " Live creatively friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself.  You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out.  Stoop down and reach to to those who are oppressed.  Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law.  If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceive...

These two brother in laws were caught sitting in mirror images. February  10 " Step out of the traffic! Take a long loving look at me, your God, above politics, above everything." Psalm 46:10 MSG WOW.  This verse jumped out and grabbed me at a time when my heart has been hurting over the hate floating across our nation. It has brought division within families, marriages and friendships. One friend shared that many friends  would no longer talk to her because of her voting preference. Tragic.  Posts on Facebook have had me wanting to steer clear of certain individuals. This verse says to "Step out of the traffic!"    We need to do that regularly. Step out and look up. Find a wilderness location, even if it's alone in your car or a closet with a flashlight in your busy home.  For God often speaks in the wilderness.                                 ...

See the orange  ball in the air? Pretty funny. One of the grandsons was throwing it while this photo was taken. Love these boys. I thank God for them and  know they will always have my back. Samson has stolen my heart! Is he cute or what? Such a timid soul.  When startled he hides under a table. We will protect you Samson . February 9 God always has our backs, our fronts and protect us from whatever puddle of life we might be standing in at the moment. "You are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7 The Bible says, "God is love. " 1 John 4:16 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 encourages us with this characteristic of love. "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.   It always protects , always trust, always  hopes, always perseveres." The storyline continues to enhance when we realize the way God has designed for believers to love one another and thus pro...

These young woman all love the Lord deeply and are forever teaching this ole bird new Biblical insights!  I thank God for allowing me to call them mine! Truly, truly beautiful gals. February 8 Studying the book of John gives reflection on the deep purpose in Jesus' actions. Whether he was chatting with the woman at the well, calling Lazaras to come forth from the tomb, or washing the disciples feet, there was purpose behind the process and the motive for His actions came straight  from heaven. When I reflect back on any random day, most of what occurred in that daily schedule was self-motivated.  Not that those were worthless actions, but I can't say they were God ordained or Spirit led.  The good things is today is another day! "You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you ." Psalm 86:5  "My counsel is this: Live freely, animated and motivated by God's Spirit.  Then you won't feed the compu...

Had so much fun building this castle for the grands out of refrigerator and washing machine boxes. The draw bridge was the best part!   Thanks Deke Andrews for assisting me with my crazy ideas. February 7 Who is the king of you castle? Who is seated on the throne of your heart? Where does your strength come from? The next time I build a castle like this I will place these amazing verses on the walls of the castle. "I love you, God-you make me strong.  God is bedrock under my feet, the castle in which I live, my rescuing knight.  My God- the high rage where I run for dear life,  hiding behind the boulders, safe in the granite hideout! "   Psalm 18:1-2 MSG

Love this grandson wearing my bathing cap! February 6 A couple weeks ago when attending a satellite Bible Study Fellowship class on the book of John the audio was not working well during the lecture session.  Straining to listen, we tried to grab bits and pieces. Whether these things were actually said or this is how the Spirit interpreted the lesson for me, there are some tough questions.  The ladies in the class the following week said, "Thanks a lot Boo! Like we needed this much conviction in our lives." If it gets too hard, just look back up at the bathing cap photo! How is God changing your heart to care for him more? Are you a generous giver or do you criticize? What are your sacrificial expressions of love? Do we reach out to those who can hurt us? Do you realize you are a threat because you spend time with Jesus? What is the one thing you won’t do for Jesus? When was the last time we praised the Lord outside of church? Praise is a pri...

Reading The Good Good Father by Chris Tomlin February 4-5 It's the LUV month! Red hearts are adorning all the stores.  Reality is that we are loved in a magnificent fashion everyday. Stopping to pray for those who haven't realized they are lavishly loved. " Remember that you are My beloved. I am on your side, and I want what is best for you.  Whenever you feel inadequate for the task ahead, stop and think about your resources.  I, your Strength, am infinite.  I never run out of anything!"   Jesus Calling " Have you not known?  Have you not heard?  The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.  He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength."   Isaiah 40:28-29 Make Jesus your Valentine!

February 3 I started writing a " love ly" devotional the other day on being coupled to Christ  after reading... "A happily married man and woman are connected by much more than law and morality. Their warm memories of shared experiences create ties that draw them close and keep them committed to each other.  Dear one, I want you to know that I am totally committed to you. I can fill your heart with loving memories as you walk in the Light of my Presence joyfully depending on Me." Jesus Calling "Delighted, they dance all day long; they know      who you are, what you do—they can’t keep it quiet! Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us—      you’ve been so good to us! We’re walking on air! All we are and have we owe to  God ,      Holy God of Israel, our King!" Psalm 89:15-16 But before I could complete my writing on this passage, real life happened. Read below this entry better titled Disciplin...

Thankful we have a heavenly Father who holds us in the palm of his hand. February 2 Our newest grandson is so blessed to have smart, loving, compassionate parents who have stood beside him in the NICU the first few days of his life.  Angels must have been whispering to him …”You are blessed. God gave you really, really good parents.”    Here are thoughts penned by Sarah Young in the voice of Jesus, which have been a blessing at such a scary time. Thank you all for your prayers.   “I am your strength and shield…I provide the strength you need each step of the way. Instead of assessing your energy level and wondering about what’s on the road ahead, concentrate on staying in touch with Me.  My Power flows freely into you through our communication.  Refuse to waste energy worrying, and you will have strength to spare. Whenever you start to feel afraid, remember that I am your Shield. But unlike armor, I am always alert and active.  My...

Nothing like a gorgeous day to go biking! This little one is a continuous smile! February 1 God called me Sweet Pea!!!! After working on a slideshow production for a couple hours, the task was complete and I went to send it. The screen screamed "Err, unable to upload." Are you kidding me?  The next prompt told me I needed to restart the program.  UGH.  Beginning again, I asked the Lord for patience and I prayed. God brought to mind that I had neglected to include an important recipient. Had it worked the first time, I would have been very embarrassed.  My mother always said, "God works in mysterious ways."  I say, "He's always watching out for me." When I thanked Him, he said, "Sweet Pea, I love you and I've got your back!"  It thrilled my heart! God  will never walk away from his people, never desert his  precious  people.  Psalm 94:12 When trials surface and frustrations fall upon us, we look to the Lord and t...