Beginning Again

The shopping is over, the cookies have all been given away -- with traditional recipes tucked away for next year. The presents have been given and the children enjoying a few days off before the school resumes . . .

The new year awaits us! A dawning of the unknown, yet irresistable future. How we meet this coming year is often time tainted with how the last one has gone. Some of us hope to "turn over a new leaf." Others of us face the year wading though some kind of grief or loss. Some of us face it with rejoicing and expectancy. While others may be tempted to dread its coming.

No matter what, there are a few non variables with which we can face this coming year. Life. If you are reading this -- you have life left in your body. Hope. Yes, if you have life, there IS always hope. God. For God IS!

His coming in human form gives us the marvelous way to eternal life.  We don't have to face this new year alone. We can trust in, and rely on His present, and eternal existence. His Presence doesn't falter -- even when we cannot feel. His Power doesn't diminish -- even when our strength is gone. His love remains unfailing -- way past our human comprehension. 

He knows our fears, our thoughts, our regrets, our longings, our desires, our dreams -- and He isn't in a panic, nor is He nonchalont about this whole "world thing." He is God. His thoughts are above ours -- His ways above ours -- His All seeing eye viewing way more than we can even imagine -- and HE is WITH US!!!!

Lean on Him, rest in Him, surrender to Him -- and know no matter what comes or goes, God is.

Take it with You

"God's in charge -- always. ZionsGod is God for good! Hallelujah!" Psalm 146:10 The Message

  

Rejoice!

He is come! Light to our darkness, joy in our sorrow.

Rejoice!

He is come! Peace in our turmoil, hope for tomorrow.

Rejoice!

He is come! Life everlasting, salvation for all.

Rejoice!

LOVE is come!

His name is JESUS!

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.


Isaiah 9:6

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

All My Gold

All of six years old, my youngest son came to me one day showing me his treasures. One of his prize possessions was a “golden” horse candlestick. (I remembered having two of them at one time, but years and moving had managed to “relocate” the other one!) He also had some crystal jewels—I think perhaps from a wedding — as well as a “golden” birthday piece of memorabilia from his past birthday celebration at a well-known children’s pizza establishment. (Take a guess!) While their actual, earthly value would have been extremely low, they meant a lot to him. These were his collections — valuables of his own.

Not long after he had spoken with me about his “treasures” I heard his sister in his room one day. “Why do you have this in here?” she was asking. She couldn’t figure out why he had a golden horse candlestick in his room. “It’s ok,” I told her. “Those are his treasures.”

It was nearing Christmas. We had put up the tree, decorated the mantle, and, on a special little table all it’s own, we had placed the nativity set. It had colored lights and pine needles around it — and our youngest son was especially intrigued. He had moved the wise men closer in — actually right in front of the manger — but, I didn’t bother to fix his rearranging. It didn’t hurt anything — and that was the way he saw them placed, so . . .

One morning, the snow came down heavily, causing “no school.” Everyone was home, most busy with whatever they could find to do. Britton came out of his room and headed for the nativity. In his little hands he held all his treasure — the candlestick, the memorabilia, the crystals . . . But it was what he said that grabbed the hearts of those of us who heard him. Laying it down on the little table he said, “I want to give ALL my gold to Jesus.”

He laid it all down on — right by the wise men — and ran off to play.

All his gold — given to Jesus. All his treasure — laid right on the table. Later, I looked closer. Two of his “jewels” were right on baby Jesus! I had to smile — he certainly wanted to make sure Jesus had them.

While the gold wasn’t “real” and the crystals weren’t “genuine” to my son they were the very best treasure he had. In the whole scheme of things the heart is what matters. All we have, all we are given freely and willingly to Jesus — that is the gift He desires. And . . . Shouldn’t we think about what He wants? After all, it is His birthday!

Take it with You

“After they had heard the king they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.”

Matthew 2:9-11

Jubilant Joy

Christmas had come to Indiana. My parents and I were Christmas shopping and into the seemingly “everlasting search” to find a parking place. This, as you know has its own set of challenges – especially during the holiday season! I was quite a bit younger than I am now, yet even so, there is a scene stamped vividly in my memory. We were slowly driving down a row, when all of the sudden, a car whipped around and sailed into a parking place. The next thing we knew, someone else had jumped out of their car, and was really “giving it to them” verbally. The funny thing was, there was another parking place open – not too far away – but any joy this person may have had was long gone and anger was blinding them to opportunities right in front of them! As I recall, the open parking place was even closer to the store!

It seems like the busier we get, the more crammed our schedules become, the more gifts we feel we have to “buy” – the further we seem to stray from the “jubilant joy” Christmas still contains. “The Spirit of Christmas” brings jubilant joy! Announcing His birth – the angel certainly couldn’t whisper. “The angel reassured them, “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! The Savior – yes, the Messiah, the Lord – has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the city of David!” Luke 2:10&11 (NLT) And although the “telling” began with one angel – it couldn’t stay that way for long! Luke 2:13 tells us, “Suddenly the angel was joined by a vast host of others – the armies of heaven – praising God: ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors.” (NLT)

The “jubilant joy” couldn’t be contained! The shepherds went of RUNNING to find out for themselves that what the angels were saying was true. They found the source of the “jubilant joy” Himself, Jesus, humbly wrapped in white strips of cloth, lying in a manger full of hay – just as the angel had said.

What happened then? Guess what – they didn’t leave there quietly living out the fact they had seen the Messiah! They couldn’t keep it to themselves! They had to share it! “Then the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished . . .” Luke 2:17&18 (NLT)

I well remember when our fourth child was born. It had been a difficult waiting period – as he was “overdue.” By the time he made his appearance, all of the family was very happy, but none can compare with the priceless look on the face of our daughter. She had just turned six, and thankfully, someone snapped a picture of her when she saw her baby brother for the first time. Her mouth flew wide open, and her eyes were “big as saucers.” This was no baby doll; this was a real, live baby that had somehow shown up to be part of their family! Her expression is one of amazement, and joy.

When Jesus was born, wherever that news was taken, believed, and met with acceptance – there was joy. Jubilant joy! When He was eight days old he was taken to the Temple to be dedicated to the Lord. Simeon was led by the Spirit that day to be there. When Simeon took Jesus in his arms he praised God first. Then he blessed Joseph and Mary and said to Mary, “This child will be rejected by many in Israel, and it will be their undoing, but he will be the greatest joy to many others.” Luke 2:34 (NLT)

At this Christmas time – let’s RECEIVE Jesus. We can let Him know our hearts are open to Him and He can make His home in us. He is welcome – we want Him to be our Jubilant Joy – our Savior – the Lord of our lives.

 By Janene Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“The angel reassured them, “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news of great joy for everyone!” Luke 2:10 (NLT)

Time For a Drive

We drove through the darkness, eyes peering out, looking for something strangely familiar, yet, always and a bit different from yard to yard. Our ooo’s and ah’s echoed, leaving breath marks on the windows. . . Christmas lights.

I suppose some would say we are wasting gasoline – but how can making a good memory be wasteful? Besides, the peace and beauty served its purpose well. It relaxed our minds and brought back into perspective some of the peace of Christmas.

Shining out through the blackness of the night were the Christmas lights. Some shone pure white – reminding us of the purity of the Christ-child who came into this world to remove the curse of sin. The multi-colored reminded us of the hope instilled deep within the “Who” of baby Jesus. The lights themselves sharing warmth which called for a cup of hot chocolate, and smiles shared.

The Light of the World – that’s Who He is. He illuminates our pathway when we let Him. Lives in our lives when invited. Desires to give to us the warmth associated with His Light, the purity He represents, the Love He is.

So, take a few moments. Grab the hand of your wife or husband with one hand, and keys to your vehicle with another. Pile in the kids – or “take a date.” Drive through the neighborhoods and look – look at the gorgeous Christmas lights and be reminded – He is the Light of the world – and He wants to be Lord of yours.

Light of the world – how could it be

The Light of the world – came to be Lord of me.

The darkness I knew – the blackness of sin

Forgiven, forever – when His Light came in.

To know Him and know how He came to this earth

Left Heaven and came – by a virgin – His birth

I’ll open my eyes to the Light that He is

And let Him be Lord of all that I am.

Light of the world – I ask You to be

Light to my darkness – and Lord of me!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld

For God’s Glory

Take it With You

"The Life-Light blazed out of the darkness; the darkeness couldn't put it out." John 1:5 The Message

Christmas -- a Spirit of Giving

Remember when you were just a little thing – it seemed like the spirit of Christmas was receiving didn’t it? Perhaps it was a shiny red bike, or a certain kind of doll. Or, maybe it was simply to have the good fortune to retain a stocking void of coal! At any rate, there is usually at least one thing a child wants for Christmas. Oh, sure, we strive to teach them that it truly is “More blessed to give than to receive,” but it usually takes a few more years of maturing before the reality of that verse really sinks in.

It’s true though, just the same. The Spirit of Christmas is giving! We hurry and scurry to buy things to GIVE. We bake and re-make to have something to GIVE. We hide things and grin – hoping they won’t discover what’s hiding under the quilt – it was too awkward to wrap . . . and we who are doing the “hurrying” and “baking,” the “hiding” and “grinning” are ever so anxious to see them receive it – or watch them open it . . . why? Because we’ve found out the secret – the secret the Father started on that first Christmas so long ago – it really is more blessed to give than to receive.

Sometimes our “giving” requires something on our part. Perhaps we take on a part time job for the holiday season. Maybe it is the gift of time – time spent at a craft table – time spent in the kitchen – or for some (bless their hearts) time spent at a sewing machine. Whatever it requires – it always seems worth it doesn’t it, when we are able to reach our goal, and give away what we worked so hard for.

A few years ago, I was trying to make ends meet at Christmas time when I heard a phrase that stuck with me. Someone said, “The best gift you can give away is a part of yourself.” So, I started thinking about that idea, and since I love to write, I started in writing poems for different friends. Guess what? They loved it! It took a lot of “brain power” and “heart felt love” and that meant something more than what my limited resources could have possibly provided.

To stop a moment and ponder what it really cost the Father for Him to give His gift makes me literally shake my head in wonder. He truly was giving the gift of Himself when He sent Jesus, to earth. He didn’t even send him to a palace where things were lovely – and there was always enough of everything. He didn’t even make sure the nursery had a plush new crib waiting his arrival. When Jesus came – God sent him humbly so we would never question – He came as the Savior for all.

Christmas is a season for giving. In all my years of gift giving, I’ve never had someone push my gift away and say, “I don’t want a gift from you.” (Maybe some of you have experienced the pain of such rejection.) The Love of God the Father has known the pain of that rejection – knows it still – every day. Whenever someone refuses to allow Jesus to be Savior and Lord – they are rejecting the gift of the Father. The gift of His love. The gift of His sacrifice. The gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. He truly is the greatest gift of all. Receive Him freely today!

By: Janene Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive.”     Acts 20:35



The Spirit of Christmas -- "Peace"

“The spirit of the season.” “Catch the holiday spirit.” “It’s the spirit of Christmas.” Anyone besides me caught words such as these coming across the airwaves, seen them in a holiday special, or perhaps read in some form of print? After hearing these words recently, in one way or another, a question began to form in my mind. What IS the real spirit of Christmas? I knew what I thought it was, but I began a little “research” with those around me. “What is the spirit of Christmas?” I asked my family. “It’s love,” said one. “It’s joy” said another. “It’s giving . . . it’s kindness . . .” each thought only a moment, then the definition that placed itself within their mind frame, spilled over from their lips. They were all right . . . in a way. . . and yet, deeper thought brought me to the realization that Christmas isn’t really as much of a “what” as it is a “Who.”

Within the word itself, we find just Who brings the true meaning of Christmas to our world. Christ. Jesus Christ Himself – came – wrapped in swaddling clothes, being laid in a manger. It is within Him that we find our source of joy, love, peace, giving . . . He is the Spirit of Christmas – for He is the very reason we celebrate!

Perhaps you’ve heard the story of the little boy who was to take part in a program at his church. He was supposed to say the lines, “It is I, be not afraid.” Well, on the night of the performance, he saw all those people and promptly adjusted his lines to fit his circumstance. He blurted out, “It’s me, and I’m scared to death!” Christ came to bring to us the very opposite of fear. The Spirit of Christmas is . . . Peace.

Let’s take a look at just this one for this week. Our Savior came and one of His incredible names is found in our verse from Isaiah 9:6, “The Prince of Peace.” Peace . . . when a world is at war? Peace . . . when economic time are questionable? Peace . . . when day to day activities threaten to overwhelm our tired brains? Yes, peace.

When we lived closer to our families, I remember how we would get up early on Christmas Day, in order to have Christmas with both of our parents, and his grandparents. During the drive to our different places of celebration, things would always seem so peaceful! No one was hurrying from one store to another . . . the traffic was minimal at most . . . beautiful Christmas music was playing on the stereo . . . it was just peaceful. Sometimes there was snow . . . sometimes it was just plain cold . . . sometimes the day was fairly pretty . . . but no matter what, the Christmas Day spirit of peace prevailed.

However, lasting Peace can only be found where we find the true Spirit of Christmas – in Christ alone. His Word lets us in on the secret our world is waiting for. Not only is Jesus Christ the Prince of Peace, Ephesians 2:14 tells us, “For He Himself is our peace who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation.” Not for a certain race or tribe. Not exclusive in His plan. Not building up walls. Not requiring more than we can give. Jesus is our Peace! How He desires that we take full knowledge of this fact.

The Spirit of Christmas is peace – and when we have Christ, we can have Peace for a life-time! This year, as our voices sing out the carol, “Peace on the earth goodwill to men . . .” may we whisper to our Savior, “Jesus I want You to live out through me the true Spirit of Christmas – I accept You as my Prince of Peace.”

By: Janene Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Greatest Reason to be Thankful

“So what are you thankful for?” The question is on our minds, and asked from our lips this week probably more than any other week of the year! We have so much to be thankful for our list can get quite long. Food, clothes, a place to sleep, family, friends, health . . . Just the basic things we have — and often take for granted give us reason to possess a grateful heart.

Blessings abundant! We have been given much. But, what if we lost one or more of these things? What if we lost them all? What then? Would we still have reason to be thankful?

The Psalmist says, “I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1 NKJV). Mr. Job, of Bible times had several really bad days! He lost his wealth, his children, his home, his health, his friends were anything but helpful, and his wife lost hope and told him to “curse God and die”(Job 2:9 NKJV).

Yet, Mr. Job held on to the fact that though circumstances change, God does not. He gave us powerful words that showed his absolute faith when he said, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD”(Job 1:21b NJJV). He rested on the fact, “I KNOW my Redeemer lives!” (Job 19:25 NKJV)

Guess what? OUR REDEEMER LIVES! That is the GREATEST thing we have to be thankful for! While we are thankful for our homes — let’s remember, Jesus left His and came to earth for us. He gave up His very life on the Cross, so that you and I could have eternal life. He brings us forgiveness from sin, freedom from guilt, erases our past, and lives within us. He has given us the unfathomable gift of His unfailing, unconditional, everlasting love.

If you’ve never had a chance to meet Him — He’s waiting for you. He desires this to be your best thanksgiving ever — with Him in your heart and life. Open your heart and ask!

Dear Jesus,

I am so thankful you came and gave your life for me. I repent of all my sins, and ask You to wash me clean. Please forgive me, and come into my heart and life. Thank you, Lord!

In Jesus’ name, Amen

Jesus — our greatest reason to be thankful!

Janene A. Dubbeld/ For God’s Glory

“Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities. Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

Psalm 103:1-5   NKJV





Ask, Believe, Trust

What are you most in need of? Wait! In NEED of. Perhaps an immediate need comes to mind. Perhaps a want we think is a need! What do we really NEED?

Needs send us on long mental searches where we roll around every possible way to get it met, or send us on worry binges which cause us to eat, or starve ourselves, doubt, or deny-- when all the time there is a Savior who has promised to meet our needs.

Sometimes what we think we need is only the "outside" of the true need -- which lay a little deeper -- further below the surface -- beyond the mask. Sometimes what we think we need turns out to be a want, or wish, or desire. Sometimes what we think we need isn't what we need at all, and our wise Heavenly Father refrains from giving it, seeing down the road where we cannot see.

That's where the steps come in. First step -- ASK. Ask with an open heart, and open mind, an open spirit that desires our will to be one with the Father's. Come through the blood of Christ and ask boldly. Ask with the desire that His Kingdom come to earth -- again, that His will be done. Ask for your need to be met.

Second step -- BELIEVE. Believe that He is a rewarded of those who diligently seek Him. Believe in Who He is, and stand firm on that truth. Believe in His ability to meet your need wherever, whenever, however.

Thirds step -- TRUST. Trust His sovereignty. Trust His Word. Trust His love. Placing your complete trust in Him is doing more that agreeing to a "fair weather" friendship. It’s trusting in the One Who never changes -- trusting Him enough in good and bad to allow His Word to be more than a book but a cornerstone on which our life is fixed. A finality of faith that remains no matter what, knowing, He DOES work all things together for good, for those who love Him.

Take the steps for your need. He is faithful -- forever. Ask, believe, and trust.

Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

"And my God will meet all you needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

We've Been "Tagged"

   Success. There isn't any one of us who doesn't desire to acheive it -- in one form or the other. It seems success has been tagged with a word resembling someone tagging you in a photo on Facebook. The tag is "busy."  

   While it is true that successful people are certainly not known for idleness -- and the Bible in no way shape or form promotes idleness -- the Christians work is meant to be God led, not performance driven.

   It sometimes takes a "painful process" for us to learn what is really important. Life has a way of bringing us those processes, and our willinginess to learn from them will determine what kind of success we become.

   All of us will become a success at something. We will succeed at fulfilling the purpose God has for us to fulfill -- or we will succeed at falling prey to the pressures of self, others, or sin.

   Success is so much more than what our societies tend to make it. Success doesn't equal money. Success cannot be equated with fame. Success can't be found in satisfying self. Success by pleasing others is at best "short-lived." Satisfying success is only discovered, and obtained by loving God, our Father, and doing His will.

   We know it is His will that, "all should come to repentance." (II Peter 3:9) We know it is His will that we be, "filled with His Spirit." (Ephesians 5:18) We know it is His will to give us, "hope and a future."(Jer. 29:11) We know it is His will that we love Him with obedience. (John 14:15)

   We need to slow down from the "human rat race" long enough to get alone in His Presence and worship and love Him. Then He can reveal to us through His Word what our personal purpose is in helping Him fulfill His plan -- the Gospel to all.

   Success doesn't equal "busyness." Only God knows what "success" is for us -- and we can only find worth and value in Him. Success IS loving God ultimately and passionately, and doing HIS WILL!

   Leave behind the empty trademarks of religious show. Leave behind the false gods of worldliness. Leave behind the shallow forms of success they offer and follow closely the One who knows.

Take it With You

"I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart.”

Psalm 40:8

I Am HUNGRY!

With four boys, one girl, a husband, and me -- those words seem to show up quite consistently around our household! Sometimes they are said in a calm matter of fact tone. Other times they are spoken with great emphasis! However they are spoken, they are always followed up with some kind of response – and usually action.

A few years ago, we were privileged to be a part of mission work. Living by faith is how the Christian is always supposed to live – and believe me, we were. One afternoon I went to the store, knowing I only had so much money. I wasn’t able to get all the groceries our family needed. I drove home, and on my way in, checked the mail. There, in our mailbox, was a check from someone who had never done anything for us financially before, and never has since. God had answered prayer! We wouldn’t go hungry.

Another time I can remember looking at my husband in the morning and asking, “What are we going to do?” His calm answer has carried me through many mornings since. He said, “We are just going to trust for daily bread.”

You know what? He was right. We did trust. And . . . we are still alive and serving our faithful God.

Have you ever gone a day or two without food? How about a week? Nothing to eat – maybe even nothing to drink . . . the body will survive for awhile, but not for long.

Just as physical “daily bread” is necessary for sustenance of the body, so spiritual “daily bread” is necessary for sustenance of the soul. We need “soul food.” The Living Water Jesus spoke of being – the Bread of Life that sustains us.

One meal a week with our local body of believers is mighty good – but it doesn’t carry with it everything we need for the week. We need the daily bread.

When we take the time to seek Him – He will be found. When we ask Him to reveal Himself through His Word – He will! Every day He feeds those who hunger and thirst after Him.

I am hungry! Hungry for more of Him! Hungry for more of His Word! Hungry for more of His will! Hungry for HIM!

“Father . . . please give us today our daily bread!”

Are you hungry, too?

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

“But he said to them, I have food to eat that you know nothing about.” John 4:32

Up and At 'Em

   Hmmm. Have you ever had one of those mornings? Physically you don't feel well, no sunshine shares its cheery rays to help you put your feet on the floor, and life in general would seem to be better shared with a soft pillow?

   David has some wonderful words for those days -- sounds to me like this man knows what he's talking about. In Psalm 34 he says, ". . . let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt his name together."

   Our lasting encouragement doesn't find itself in our surroundings, doesn't take its cue from a certain kind of weather, and isn't bound by the circumstances of today. Our lasting encouragement roots inself firmly in our EVERLASTING GOD!

   He IS . . . FOREVER! His Word IS . . . FOREVR! He watches over those who trust Him, reverence Him, love Him, serve Him. We are not alone -- He is with us.

   Discouraged?  Take Heart! Think about His love for you, His graciousness, His goodness. Speak out how wonderful and marvelous He is. He isn't shaken on His throne by what has happened today -- He is on the throne  -- and He cares for us!

Take it With You

"The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help."

  

The Beautiful Gate

   Living in Virginia is a continual, lovely feast to the eyes. Even a normal drive to school affords us the visual gift of trees and mountains with the splendor of rolling hills . . . never mind the curves and bends of the roads, it is a truly gorgeous piece of God's creation!

   If you take a drive off the beaten path, you often see the unique stone fences which bring to remembrance another era, remaining in their own kind of semi-stately beauty. You would be hard pressed to "climb over" some of these for sure! Not for their height necessarily, but for the jagged edge of the stones on the top. Finding the "gate" to allow entrance would certainly seem a better choice.

  In John chapter 10, Jesus clearly lays out for us the way "in" to eternal life. He mentions those who try and find another way -- perhaps vaulting over the fence row, or digging a hole and crawling under -- and He warns that these are not true sheep, but our thieves and robbers.

  The day in which we live boasts as many "religions" as there have ever been . . . and it seems to keep growing. The true path to eternal life has one way in and that is through Jesus Christ. HE is the "gate" and He is the Good Shepherd. Those who are true sheep will know His voice.

  In this day of clamoring voices, and subtle lies, let's keep our ears tuned to hear the voice of our true Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Taking time to commune with Him is the way we follow closely. Add nothing to His Word, take nothing away -- it will stand forever!

  The seemingly "beautiful gates" of other religions do not lead to eternal life. Jesus is still the ONLY way. We haven't "progressed" beyond Him, or become so smart we don't need Him. There is no path around Him, and avoidance certainly isn't the answer to the peace we seek. We cannot truly live without Him. He IS the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE!

   And . . . why would we want to choose another way? Why try to "sneak in" another gate? He IS everything that is good, beautiful, right, lovely . . . why trade Him for the cheap, unsatisfying journey of another path? All that we need -- He is!

  Emrace Him today -- and find -- ETERNAL LIFE!

Take it with You

"Therefore Jesus said again, I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who ever came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture." (John 10:7-9 NIV)

Lifetime Love

  It was back in the day of simpler times. Yes, she was young — very young in fact. He was a little older — not THAT much — but enough that they married and started married life — together.

Blessed with twelve children the road of their lives had it’s twists and turns, but whatever came, they met it — together.

  Dating their grandson, he and I took a trip. Up to the state of Michigan to meet Grandma and Grandpa. By this time, Grandpa had undergone surgery for cancer in his throat, and talked through a little machine. But they had weathered this storm — together. Learning to understand him was difficult for me. But Grandma could. The smile’s they shared back and forth — and easy going chuckles were some of the very first evidences I saw of a deep and lasting love.

Grandma had a specialty from her many hours in the kitchen — home-made bread. Grandpa AND the family benefited from this wonderful dough mixed with love. We enjoyed it — together.

They read the Bible every day — taking turns reading — together. They loved to play Scrabble — together. In the “early retirement” years they took many “breakfast dates” right to the “Golden Arches” — together.

The years went by, and every time we visited them they showed their deep commitment for one another — and for the Lord. They changed, they got older, but the glimmer in their eyes for one another never faded. They were always — together.

Grandma loved any kind of flower, but Grandpa had a favorite — he especially liked yellow roses. They had some in their nicely kept yard, at the house beside the railroad tracks. He enjoyed them immensely as they sat on the porch — simply being together — watching the trains go by.

Then, the “golden years” began to fade and nursing home days came calling. Now they were both in the same nursing home — same room — together. Grandma became bedridden, but Grandpa’s love for her was deep. He would get out of his bed and sit in his wheelchair all day, beside her bed and hold her hand — they were together.

Grandma secretly called in one of her daughters. She had a request. Not for herself, but for the man she so dearly loved. She wanted her daughter to go to their yard and cut some of his yellow roses and bring them to him.

Her “love of a lifetime” was still her lifetime love . . .

Her selfless act of love from the bed of a nursing home inspires my heart today. They both new the secret of a love that lasts. True love is commitment . . . Pass it on!

Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” I Corinthians 13:13

A Grateful Heart

Rrrring! The body jerks, and a benumbed hand reaches across to silence the incessant noise. The ring of the alarm awakens us to another day of looking at watches, clocks, planners, calendars, cell phones, computers — all to keep us doing the thing we are supposed to be doing at the “time” we are to be doing it!

God even has appointed times for things both in history and days yet to come. There was an appointed time for Christ to come to earth. A time appointed for Him to die on the Cross and rise again. An appointed time for the Holy Spirit to descend. And, there is a time, which only the Father knows, when Christ will come again!

In our personal lives, God has “appointed times” for things. Letting His Spirit direct our lives is our surety — even while we wait on Him to move. The assurance that his ways are “higher than our ways” keeps us trusting the love of His heart even in trying days of testing. We know pure gold is His goal — so pure gold is what we desire to be.

The law of the harvest has it’s own “appointed times.” After the hard work of planting, the discipline of watering and fertilizing, then comes the joyful celebration time of harvesting! What joy there is in reaping a harvest — and when the harvest is eternal souls, what lasting joy!

There is one thing that is always in order. It doesn’t have to “wait” for an “appointed time.” Giving thanks. A thankful heart is a healthy heart to possess. It’s gratefulness overflows in all kinds of situations. Even in times of grief — times of hurting — times when clouds hide the gorgeous ray of the sun — somehow the grateful heart finds its way back to being thankful for something. It may have to look outside of a current situation to locate it, but somehow it finds a way to praise. It is purposed to be thankful.

Look around you for the people of a grateful heart. Find it in the willing smile, the oblivious whistle, the subconscious humming under their breath as they work — these are the people of a grateful heart.

Here am I — I’m joining the ranks

The ranks of the army that’s giving thanks—

Thanks for the blessings — the ray’s of sun,

Thanks for the good things God has done.

Here am I — I’m joining the ranks

The ranks of the army that’s learning thanks—

Through shadows and sometimes skies of gray,

Learning to find a way to praise.

Here am I — I’m learning to see

His way is always best for me—

Of this joy filled group I will be a part,

Those who have chosen a grateful heart.

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

“. . . Giving thanks always for all things to the God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. . .” Ephesians 5:20

Coming Home

She was gone! We called and called her name. We looked everywhere we could possibly think of. As a last resort, my parents and I loaded into our blue Buick and headed up and down the Ohio roads . . . Looking where we thought she may have gone. Stopping the car along the way, calling her name . . . “Shabu, Shabu . . .”

Why would she trade the wonderful comfort of her luxurious, hand-made, heated dog house to head down some unknown trail? This beautiful Collie/German Shepherd mix was fairly new to us . . . But we loved her already, and now, now she was gone.

Our “driving search” took us past a small ravine where a farmer had some pigs. One of my parents wondered aloud if she could be down there among them, but we soon returned home from our pursuit — dejected, empty handed and uncertain what to do next! She was definitely not responding to our urgent calls.

Life had to continue, and we went about our normal duties with a heavy heart. How long it took, the years have erased, but the event I remember quite well! Here came Shabu — returning from her excusion “away from home.” We were thrilled! Then, our sense of smell overtook our sight! Whew! Along with Her beautiful collie markings being caked with mud, she reeked with the obvious company she had been keeping! Creatures other than her own kind — most likely the PIGS!

It didn’t surpress our joy at all! We were amazingly overjoyed that she had come home. We let her know it too, and then got right to work! Washing and scrubbing away the remains of her infamous adventure. Taking her back into our loving family. Giving her food, water, and yes, her luxurious dog house!

Just a simple, earthy story, yet how much more the elation, the joy, when we apply it to people! Wandering the path of self will, leads to unexpected trails with undesirable endings! When a son or a daughter “heads for home” — this causes the family of God — and even angels to rejoice! Father longs for the day, the Holy Spirit pulls on heart strings and Jesus waits — ready to wash the repentant heart clean from the stench and blackness of sin.

Tired of the aftertaste of sin? Come home! He calls us to “taste and see that the Lord is good!”

Weary of the journey of the “self-made” life? Come home! His arms are open as He says, “Come, you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Weary of wandering? Come home! His love is waiting at the end of the road!

 

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

 

Take it with You

“So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”

Luke 15:20

To Look Like Him

The likeness of You, Lord, in me

Is my desire – Lord, let it be!

O, let me know Your love in place --

Tho’ mud be plastered in my face.

Peel back the calloused layers of hurt --

Let me not stoop to pick up dirt.

The likeness of You, Lord, in me

Is my desire – Lord, let it be!

Let humbleness of soul remain --

No arrogance or foolish pride --

Let me not take that empty ride --

But in me, Lord -- please Lord, abide.

The likeness of You, Lord, in me

My greatest longing, Lord, You see.

Tho’ others do not understand --

You know the Truth – there’s nothing left.

You are the freedom in my breath --

Surrender -- brings life after death.

The death of self to embrace Christ

O, Jesus, is that sacrifice?

To lose myself – and gain You Lord

The gain is so much, so much MORE!

I would not trade an empty life

For one that’s filled with sacrifice.

                                                                                  By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

The Right Kind of Hint

Fresh baking cookies seem to bring quite an effect on a household of five children. “Come to the kitchen,” they seem to beckon. “See if there be any batter left in the bowl,” it repeats in their brainwaves. “Cookie dough, cookie dough, cookie dough is calling!”

May as well plan on giving them a spoonful – much more peaceful that way it seems . . .

The aroma draws them!

Have you ever been around someone with a “winning personality?” Maybe it’s a smile of warmth or a “radiant face” that makes you hungry for whatever or Whomever they possess. Whatever the reason, you know you are drawn to that person. A dear friend of mine who has a wealth of wisdom – and the right kind of “winning personality” was once accused of being a “people magnet!” What draws them to her? She truly loves God, and truly loves people. She is genuinely concerned about them, and what is happening in their lives.

Our subconscious minds are powerful things. We are drawn to those we desire to be like – affected by who we hang around with, or what we allow into our minds, our hearts, and our lives.

King David reminds us that we also have the capability of being drawn into things that are not good – solicited in a moment when our guard is down to participate in something that is far from what God has in mind for us. In Psalm 141:3-4 he says, “Post a guard at my mouth, God, set a watch at the door of my lips. Don’t let me so much as dream of evil or thoughtlessly fall into bad company.”

See, there are “winning personalities” that are capable of drawing us into the wrong kinds of things. Perhaps they say they love God, but they constantly dabble around the edge – just to see how much they can get away with. They are “sort of” committed, but ask, “Really, can’t Christ just be a part of my life?”

There are also “winning personalities” who are not following God and His plan. They are enjoying a sinful lifestyle – “for a season” and their false sense of happiness causes people to stick around. Many times it becomes a web that draws someone closer and closer and then the enemy has engaged them into activities that certainly shouldn’t be allowed in a Christ-filled person’s lifestyle.

“Don’t let me so much as dream of evil or thoughtlessly fall into bad company . . .” (Psalm 141:4 The Message) What we dream about, think on, and who we associate with has a powerful impact on our lives.

The fact of the matter is that we are responsible to guard our heart. As long as we desire God first and foremost, He is able and willing to keep us from falling. Of course He is willing to pick up any truly repentant heart that has fallen and redeem them to Himself – but we can be KEPT by Him as well! (Jude 24)

We must learn to recognize the very hint of evil – and denounce it immediately. Our hearts are steadfast – we have given our WHOLE selves to God. We don’t want Him to be a “part” of our lives; we want Him to be very life! Until EVERYTHING revolves around HIM! Our will becomes one with His. We delight in Him so much – we see Him giving us the desires of our hearts.

We must learn to recognize the very hint – the first sweet smelling aroma when His Holy Spirit is bidding us come and meet in a quiet place. The hint of His voice speaking to our hearts. The hint of a new depth of love He wants to take us to.

“Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness – faith, love, peace – joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God.” (II Timothy 2:22)

O God, help me be aware of the right kind of hints – and run accordingly! Away from evil – and toward righteousness – every time! In Jesus’ name, Amen

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take It With You

“Run away from infantile indulgence. Run after mature righteousness – faith, love, peace – joining those who are in honest and serious prayer before God.” (II Timothy 2:22)

A Pair of Shoes

   Mike* was a young man who lived with an actively, giving heart -- not generously found in the ways of the young. As a teenager, he loved life, did well in school, and pursued his sport-- which was soccer. After graduation in 2007, Mike joined the Marines, and it was here that he literally gave his all for our country.

   As his friends gathered and mourned their loss, one shared a story — a story very few knew — a story about pair of shoes. Mike lived to the fullest. He did things "with all his might." When he played soccer, he played hard. He gave it his best.

   One day his mom became aware of a personal need. His soccer shoes were worn out — he was needing some new ones. Being a good mom, she went to the store and bought him a new pair.

   Not after this incident, she was picking him up from practice when she happened to notice the shoes he was wearing. “Why are you wearing your old soccer shoes?” she asked. “Why aren’t you wearing your new ones?” Mike’s response showed the bigness of his heart. To his mother’s surprise, Mike had given his shoes away!

   You see, there was another boy on the team who’s shoes were worn out too — so, Mike saw the need and filled it — by giving this boy his brand new shoes.

   He and mom never spread the story around, but in his death, others told his life story. This, and other things he did echoed in the hearts and lives of those he associated with. It was they way he lived that followed after.

   Mike had no idea his deed that day would be part of the story characterizing the legacy of who he was. It was “just a pair of shoes.”

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Matthew 25:40

*real name withheld

Heart Cry

If easy means shallow -- I don't want it.

  If smooth means passive -- don't lead me there.

Just promise when the waves would swallow up my very soul

  Your Presence would make the wounded whole.

If I can only see your face by trusting --

  Help my human spirit trust Divine

If fear can only turn to faith by facing

  Things too hard for me -- Lord, make them mine.

If there's a place within me with a shadow of a doubt

  Erase it, Lord. Please fill me with Yourself.

Lord, change me -- make me steady -- make my eyes of faith to see

  Beyond this earthly vapor -- to eternity.

                                                                          Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

God Is

God is . . .our refuge and strength. Psalm 46:1

God is . . . our rewarder when we seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

God is . . . Our Father who loves us. (Matthew 6:9)

God is . . . Our Creator. (Genesis 1:26)

God is . . . Our peace. (Ephesians 2:14)

God is . . . Our Rock. (II Samuel 22:32)

God is . . . Always with us. (Hebrews 13:5)

God is . . . Our light and salvation. (Psalm 27:1; Isaiah 12:2)

God is . . . Our King. (Psalm 47:7)

God is . . . Our provider. (Philippians 4:19)

God is . . . Our comfort. (II Corinthians 1:13)

God is . . . On our side. (Psalm 116:6; Psalm 124:1; Rom. 8:31)

God is . . . Love. (I John 4:8)

So when the load seems heavy, the road seems long, the night seems dark, the victory long in coming, just take a little time to pause and remember who our GOD IS!

Hold your head up and listen — listen for the sound of hope He brings, grasp His provision of grace, accept His provision of love and peace. He is our God! And He will be our God — even to the end.

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

What Mom Didn't Know

May I give a large round of applause to any mom who home schools her children?! For two years of my older sons education, I attempted to home school them. We had many interesting experiences, to be sure, but one I’m quite sure has probably been unmatched.

At this particular time, we were living in Florida in a double wide trailer with a nice sized wooden porch on the front. Floridians – whether true or transplant – will know what I mean when I say we deal with “creatures” down there that are either non-existent or not as prevalent in the northern parts of our great country.

Such as coral snakes, armadillos’, palmetto bugs. . . the list goes on. However, being a “transplant” I certainly hadn’t memorized the list of “endangered species.”

Therefore, one day my boys came bringing me a large tortoise. My home school antenna popped right out of my head. Why, this would be a great activity! We could look it up on the internet and write a paper on it. So, I got a box and the boys put the tortoise in it.

Some of our neighboring missionary friends came up and had a look – one of their boys even mentioned tortoise soup – a delicacy I think his family enjoyed in Africa.

Life got so busy the next few days, I felt sorry for the tortoise, so, before we even had a chance to do any research, the boys let it go.

The next morning there was a knock at the door. Opening it, I was most surprised! There stood a man in uniform – looked like a police to me. “Have you all been catching gophers?” he asked me.

“Oh, no,” I replied, my Midwestern upbringing instantly thinking of a tiny, furry, animal headed into a hole in the ground. “We haven’t caught any gophers. We did catch a turtle. You can see the box right over there. My kids were going to do home-school research on him . . . but, we felt sorry for him and let him go.”

Well, in the next few minutes I received quite an education! We had caught a “gopher tortoise.” They were an “endangered species” and we could have gotten in really big trouble! Furthermore, our neighbors had heard the comment about “tortoise soup” and thought for sure we were going to kill it!

Once he realized my innocence – or utter stupidity -- the man was very nice. I imagine he and his buddy had a good laugh when they got back to the car – and I was very thankful for his kindness and mercy! Believe me, we never caught another one!

Sometimes in our Christian walk we are tempted to be hurt by something someone says or does. “Makin’ mountains out of mole hills” seems to be some folk’s specialty! Could we learn to extend grace – show mercy – give the love of Christ. It is possible they do not even realize what they have done. (I certainly didn’t know we had captured a member of the endangered species!) And, even if they do, the God of all sees and knows all.

He desires grace in our speech, mercy in our actions, love in our lives.

Even when we knowingly turned our back on God, He KNEW it – yet, he loved us anyway! Let’s walk in His footsteps of love today.

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” I Peter 4:8

Heavy Guard Detail

As a young child, my family and I did a lot of traveling. One of our funniest remembrances is going to visit a particular fort. While my mind doesn’t remember all the details, I DO remember my Dad rolling down his window and asking a gentleman where the fort was. The man kept saying, “You’re in the fort.” Apparently Dad wasn’t convinced because he kept re-asking the question, “Where’s the fort?” The man kept on saying “you’re in the fort.” By the time he convinced Dad, Mom and everyone else in the vehicle was rolling with laughter.

We thought the valuables in their fort would certainly be guarded with more care. They certainly didn’t have a very heavy “guard detail.” We were inside the fort and didn’t even realize it. It has been such an easy entrance the guard had to work at convincing my dad we were really there.

The more we grow in our Christian walk, the more we realize that the most valuable things in life are not temporal. It is so easy to get swept up in the mere existence of living and forget the absolute necessity of guarding our soul.

Picking up my Bible recently, I found myself in Proverbs 4. Verse 23 jumped out at me, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Guard our heart . . . so how do we do that?

Well, guards are usually set at doors of places for two reasons. Watch who comes in, and watch who goes out. That’s the way it is with our hearts. The avenues to get to our hearts are our minds, our ears, our eyes . . . so, we guard the avenues. We fill our minds with God’s Word, praise music, good thinking patterns. What are we doing? We are setting up a guard!

We choose to rejoice, choose NOT to worry or be anxious – but take “EVERYTHING by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving” – presenting our requests to God. What happens then? We have a guard! “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7

We ask the Lord of our lives to help us with “guarding.” In Psalm 141, David shows us how. He says, “Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers; let me not eat of their delicacies.” (Psalm 141:3-4)

We certainly need to set up a better “guard detail” than they had at that fort! We don’t want any “sneak ins.” The living of our lives springs from our hearts. What is valued to us will be spoken out by our living, and in the living of our children and grandchildren.

Anything questionable – even hinting of sin – keep it out! Anything negative – hinting of tearing down another or negatively affecting – get it cleansed! Anything full of His Word, His love, His Power, embrace it mightily and let Him pour Himself back out through you.

Today – let’s guard our hearts!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it With You

“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Asking God

She was a very busy lady! Mother of three children, a minister’s wife, loving the Lord with all of her heart, and wanting make each second count for the Lord. She raced around, working very hard, doing it all for Jesus . . . And completely wearing herself out. Ever so gently the Lord began to speak to her heart, making her aware of a need she didn’t know she had.

“Did you ask me if this idea was OF me?” She was a creative person, and had a desire to use every talent she possessed for the Lord, however her “busyness” in His service was becoming a habit. Sometimes she began before she “inquired” if this was something HE really wanted her to do! His words “stopped her in her tracks.” If it wasn’t OF Him . . . How could it really be FOR Him? It was a lesson much needed and well learned. She couldn’t just race through life “doing everything” for God, until she took the time to sit at His feet and ask Him, “what would YOU have me do?”

The men of Israel in Joshua 9 were the leaders of the day. They were wonderful men of God. They had been used of the Lord and seen His miraculous intervention on behalf of His people again and again. Crossing the Jordan . . . Watching the walls of Jericho fall flat . . . They had done the “hard thing” and “routed out” the sin in the camp when Achan disobeyed the Lord.

Then the people of Gibeon showed up among them. These people had heard of the acts of the Living God, and they were afraid. They knew they couldn’t win over the Israelites in battle. Neither did they like the idea of defeat. So, they thought, schemed, and devised a plan of deceit. They made bread — and waited until it was moldy. They disguised themselves to look like they were from far away — when they were from close by.

The Israelite leaders did a lot of things right. They listened to their story. They checked all of their provisions. But the one thing that was most important — this time they overlooked. They did not ask the Lord what they should do. This resulted in a decision that wasn’t God given that cost them an unwanted price to pay.

We serve a God who is willing to help us. His ways are so much higher than ours! Our view is limited — His eyes see all. He knows the schemes of the enemy — and He is well able to protect us. We just have to take the time to ask Him on every decision — no matter how “big” or “small.” His wisdom is the Light we need today!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld

For God’s Glory

Take it with You

“The men of Israel sampled the provisions but did not inquire of the Lord.” Joshua 9:14



Wings

What does your mind go to when someone says, “wings?” The results are amazing! Some people think — Barbeque. Some think HOT BARBEQUE!

Other thought processes trace to organizations who have “wings” in their name. Still others think of eagles, or birds known for the broad span, beautiful feathers, or protective covering of their wings.

Imagery is a very useful tool in writing or speaking. Using something we can each relate to in illustrating a point is very helpful in not only getting the point across, but helping others to retain it’s valuable information.

In Bible days, birds were much more prevalent than Barbeque or “winged” organizations . . . And so the imagery of wings found in scripture usually brought to mind what they had seen in the nature around them. Wings held a connotation of protection. The word “wings” brought the image of a mother hen protecting her chicks from a storm. Or that of an eagle—mounting high above the earth around him — off into the blue sky above.

The Presence of God was often likened to “wings,” and the beautiful imagery still holds much encouragement for us today.

In Psalm 61:4 we read, “I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of your wings. The ultimate trust of our life has found a resting place. Sheltered safely under the Almighty wings of God.

Psalm 17:8 brings this request to the Lord, “Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings . . .” A hiding place when circumstances threaten to be “too much.” A place to hide — to be comforted and loved.

Boaz saw in Ruth that simple trust when he said, “The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” (Ruth 2:12)

Not only do we find wings to be our refuge and our shelter, but in Isaiah 40:31, we find an imagery of rising above. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, they shall walk, and not faint.” (Is. 40:31)

“Mounting up” higher than the things of earth requires a waiting on God. As we “rest” in the shelter of His wings, waiting on Him for direction, guidance, clarity to the path, His strength becomes ours and we find ourselves mounting — up, up, and away from the cares and the burdens and pressures, into the mighty Presence of an Almighty God. And He . . . HE makes ALL THE DIFFERENCE!

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalm 36:7)

Right Place at the Right Time

My oldest son was intently telling us about a friend of his who received a brand new, free car. It was rewarded to him by the college where he went to school for an accomplishment that didn’t seem to be all that “hard” really. It seemed like he was just “at the right place at the right time.”

Our family was headed out to sing for Jesus. We made preparations the evening before, loaded all seven of us into the van, and left in plenty of time. We were enjoying the beautiful day as we rode along, already singing together, anticipating what God was going to do . . . when Dad says, “Have you seen 43 yet?’ Upon closer investigation it was apparent; we were NOT “at the right place at the right time!” We had made a right instead of a left, and had quite a bit of back tracking to do. Around the twists and curves of the Blue Ridge Parkway we went . . . and, thankfully, we still made it to our destination in plenty of time.

The “right place at the right time.” What do those words mean for those of us who are disciples of Christ? When you take away all the froth and frill, the bottom line is our “right place” is keeping in step with the Holy Spirit. He has been given to us by the Father as a Guide, a Comforter, a Friend. It’s like all of time is a great big panoramic picture. God is the Master artist, taking His brush and the beauty of surrendered lives to continue His mural.

We have the awesome privilege to help Him complete this purpose. He has given us the gifts and abilities that, when surrendered back to Him, will help Him paint His world.

He is only hindered by unwillingness, or disobedience on our part. He will still fulfill His plan, but we hinder Him when we back away from what He has called us to do – or when we put our own plans and wishes above His.

When we know what He has called us to, doing it will put us “in the right place at the right time.” Moses was called to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt. At first he saw all of his own inadequacies and failures, not sure that God had chosen the right man. God is God. He knew Moses inside and out. He knew his human frailty. As one writer put it, “How much eloquence would He (God) have needed to furnish him for his mission? The answer is, without God no amount of human eloquence would have availed; but with God the merest stammerer would have proved an efficient minister.”

We must not shrink back from where He is leading, or rush on ahead in eagerness of a fleshly spirit, but stay steady, keeping step with Him and fulfilling His will and purpose in our lives daily.

Let Him paint His mural through you! It’s an awesome life to live! Walking in His Spirit keeps us in “the right place, at the right time!”

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” (Galatians 5:16)

Psalm 91

She had silvery, white hair by the time I came to know her. Her shoulders stooped a bit, but that didn’t deter her from good, old fashioned, gardening and wonderful cooking. Home-made noodles . . . Mmmm, no one could make them quite like her. Church potlucks just weren’t complete without her large, stainless steel, kettle, sitting on the counter, sending off mouth watering aromas as it waited to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.

It was extremely seldom for the Pastor to take any time off — this I know first hand since he was my dad. Our church didn’t boast a church “staff” so if their was a message to be preached, Dad did it. If someone needed visiting — Dad did it. Therefore, if Dad were gone on a Wednesday evening, he would often ask Mrs. Settles to have prayer meeting.

Now there was one thing that stood out about this lady even more than her homemade noodles. She knew God. She talked to Him — lots! She talked to Him because she loved Him. She talked to Him for family, for friends, for the lost . . . She knew God and He knew her.

After several years of being at the church, our family was preparing to be gone over a Wednesday. One of my young friends made a comment that they would probably hear Psalm 91 again! Evidently every time this dear saint “filled in” she would use Psalm 91.

As the years have gone by, this Psalm has become most precious to me. Many nights I read it before going to sleep. Sometimes my daughter reads it to me, or I read it to her. Recently we read it in family devotions. It’s one of those Psalms of which we can never get enough. It’s words hold such promises . . . Such faith-filled declarations! This was a secret Mrs. Settles had discovered. No wonder she used it nearly ever time!

In a devotional book, entitled, “Springs in the Valley,” I found a version of this Psalm that was new to me. I absolutely fell in love all over again with the meaning of this passage from God . It goes like this:

“He that goeth aside to sit quietly in the secret place with the Most High, will find him coming over so close that this man shall be lodging under the very shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1 free translation)

Don’t you just love that?!? Going aside and sitting quietly brings Him close! So close in fact that you will be “lodging” or living under the shadow of the Almighty! The very Almighty God!!! What a privilege! What a place to rest! What a place to live!

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)

Let’s determine to “live in Him” more than ever before, and let Him “live in us!” (John 14:1)

Take it with You

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."      Psalm 91:1

Are You For Sure?

We were in the van . . . Again! Our family spends a lot of time there! On the way to “this” — home again from “that.”

Our youngest loves to talk to “mom,” to “dad,” to “whoever will listen!” He “defines” the gift of communication — at least he did at age five.

On one of our many rides we were “listening” when his chatter suddenly became full of questions. Finally, he had to have an answer from Dad on some childish things that was troubling to him. It was an easy response for Dad, something learned through education, or simply from the experiences of life. However, when Dad gave his answer, which was certainly correct, our son wasn’t quite satisfied. “Are you for sure?” he earnestly asked my husband.

I had to laugh! Here was my son, all of five, questioning the

certainty of my husband on a matter. Quick as a wink it came to me.

“Oh,” I said audibly. “That’s what we do to God sometimes!”

Our human, finite minds come to our infinite God with questions. We are seeking Him for answers. The questions seem incredibly large to us. Then, when He gives us the answer — or asks us to trust Him with this one, we get this wrinkled up forehead and puzzled look in our eyes as we look up and say, “are you for sure?”

“Are you for sure?” we may ask, when the answer isn’t exactly what we hoped it would be. When our desires can only find their home in bowed surrender at his feet, echoing the words He spoke in a garden so many years ago, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”

“Are you for sure?” we may wonder, when tears course down our cheeks — wounds open, and pain fresh. When our hands grip the Word until our knuckles turn white with a grip that results in nothing less than death — the death of self.

“Are you for sure?” we ask in astonishment when the trial is over and the breeze of the wind of healing touches our face, filling our souls with a time for celebration and fulfillment. When we find ourselves made alive unto Christ — with His plan being lived through us.

“Are you for sure?”

He’s certainly “for sure!’” He hasn’t been caught by surprise — He knows! He existed before there was an “is!” And He “will be” when “time isn’t!” His name is, “I AM!” He “inhabits eternity,” our verse tells us for today. He dwells in it, lives in it — and we haven’t even experienced it yet! Oh, yes! He’s “for sure!”

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.’”

Isaiah 57:15

To Hear His Voice, to See His Glory

When we were getting ready to name one of our five children, I remember some “advice” from “Readers Digest.” They advised to choose a name, then stand and the back door and yell it one hundred times. If you still liked it by then, that was the one to name your child. Although I never tried it, five children later certainly gives me a better understanding why they gave that advice!

To hear or not to hear . . . that is the question! 

To hear and understand is even better. In our modern world of constant technological communication, we find ourselves without the benefit of voice inflection, tone, articulation . . . Much of what we do is simply words on some kind of screen to relay a message as quickly as possible.

One couple who were going through some marriage difficulties got to the place where they simply couldn’t communicate face to face, so, they texted from different rooms of the SAME house! “At least they were communicating” I can hear someone say. True, but I’m not sure it held long term value!

Moses, the great man of faith and Friend of God desired to commune with Him, face to face. He had written down the “text” God had given for His people on tablets of stone. He had heard His voice on numerous occasions, in numerous ways, for numerous things! He had represented Him before Pharoah, had followed Him, leading out His chosen people. He had seen Him in a pillar of fire, and watched Him in a cloud of smoke. He had seen the miracles He performed – had witnessed His Power in God-sized proportions. Yet, perhaps it was the times when God spoke to Moses, “face to face,” as “friend with friend,” that created in Moses the longing to see His glory.

He had to climb a mountain and be alone to even get close. And, although our wise Father knew our human frame could not bear to look upon the full glory revealed in His face, He answered the request of His servant according to His will.

There, in the cleft of the rock, Moses experienced the Presence of God as never before. He could not look upon God’s face and live, but as God passed by, He was able to see His back.

Following this glorious time, once again God gave to Moses the instructions for His people. He made an everlasting covenant with them. Moses didn’t just “hear.” He heard – he understood – he obeyed. The shine on Moses face when He returned to the people was a mighty testimony that he had been with God Almighty – He had seen a portion of His glory.

Oh, God. My heart cry is to commune with you, face to face. To more than “hear” but to understand and apply what You have to say to me. May I take the time to spend in Your Presence so Your shine will be on my face, creating a hunger in others to know YOU!

In Jesus’ name, Amen

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two Tablets of the Testimony in His hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.” Exodus 34:29

In The Son

What a night! It was late, we had just returned home from a church function, and my daughter was covered up in homework. She needed, “help” from mom. Another one of the children was hungry, and mom was endeavoring to work with getting help from dad on something she needed to do! Finally, the apex was reached. Off to bed went everyone — with the “famous teaching of the centuries” hanging in the air . . . “everything will look better in the morning!”

Before daylight even fully dawned, mom and daughter were up, working hard to complete the Science homework. There, in the reading of a science text book popped out this phrase; “One moment a particle orbits the sun as it has probably done for thousands of years; in the next moment, it ventures too close to the earth and is pulled into the atmosphere by Earth’s gravity.” (Third Edition, Space Science, BJU Press.) It went on to say that most particles are no larger than a speck of dust!

Now I am sure that the lessons she was learning, and what the Holy Spirit was whispering to my heart were two different things! But the similarities were so clear in my mind. A “speck of dust” . . . That’s what the human race was created from according to Genesis 2:7.

“Too close to earth” . . . (Romans 12:2) Somehow, after orbiting the sun for an extremely long time, the particle is drawn away from the sun and into earth’s atmosphere.

This causes it to have a “flash of brilliance” as it hurries downward, called a “shooting,” or “falling” star. (Heb. 11:25) Most of the “specks” don’t even make it anywhere — they just burn up in the atmosphere.

Our world is full of “now things” that last for a moment . . . Or maybe a day. It’s pull is everywhere! But what is it that causes our life to shine with a radiance that lasts? (Ps. 34:5) Who is it that keeps us from being swallowed up into the worldy way of thinking or squeezed into it’s mold? What keeps us fruitful and useful in His Kingdom from a young age clear through the older ages? (Ps. 92:14)

The secret is clear — we can’t allow ourselves to be pulled away from the Son! We have to stay living in Him, and allowing Him to live in us. This doesn’t just, “happen!” We are in a relationship! The most wonderful relationship ever known! Us, and the God of Heaven!

How do we stay close? How do we do it in any other relationship? We spend time with them. We listen to what they have to say. We learn what they like. We talk and share our joys and sorrows . . . If we don’t, it certainly won’t be a relationship of substance for very long!

His Word is a love letter — just for us. His Spirit longs to whisper to our heart as we read. He loves to hear our voice as we share in His joy or bring our greatest needs. He loves to commune with us — and act on our behalf! This relationship is definitely meant to be “long-term!” Eternal in fact — and His Presence along the way? It KEEPS us radiant!

And what can He use to teach us? Certainly a Science textbook — He created it all!

                                                                                                                       By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces were not ashamed.”

Psalm 34:5