Open Eyes, Open Minds

The women had returned excitedly from the empty tomb – sharing all that had happened and filled with joy. Instead of meeting acceptance and belief, verse 11 of Luke 24 tells us, “But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.” They must have been sure these women, overcome by grief, had let their imagination run wild. They had seen Jesus die, they knew He was buried in the borrowed tomb, and the facts of what they had humanly seen were overriding the faith to believe what these women were telling them.

Life had to go on. Two of them needed to make a journey to a village called Emmaus. It would take awhile, for it was about seven miles away, and their transportation system for the day was their own two legs! Just like any two friends who had gone through what they had the last few days, their conversation turned to the events at hand. They weren’t joyous happenings to discuss.

As they walked along, Jesus came up and began to walk along with them, “but they were kept from recognizing him” (Luke 24:16.) Patiently He began to deal with them at the point of their need. He began with a direct question – what was it they had been discussing together as they walked along? That question stopped them in their tracks! “They stood sill, their faces downcast” (Luke 24:17b) How could there be anyone who didn’t know the events of the last few days? Within moments, it all spilled out. Words, tumbling out of their tangled out emotions, giving acknowledgement to their dashed hopes, seemingly confusion added to mystery by the claims of the women earlier that day.

Reprimanding them for their lack of faith, Jesus began right where they would understand. They knew Moses and the Prophets for they were devout Jews. He took them through the Scriptures, explaining to them all of these things about Himself – and still, they did not recognize Him. Not until He was within their place, until He sat down at the table with them and broke the bread did they know that it was Jesus.

His glorious Presence gave these men strength to literally go quickly back the seven miles – in the same night – to tell the disciples Who had been with them! What joy they shared as they took the journey this time. No more sadness and gloom – He had come OUT of the tomb! They were forever changed – they had been with the Master.

He is ready to meet us – right where we are. He is the Bread for our hungry spirits – the Water for our thirsty souls. No more sadness and gloom! He is RISEN!

O, Lord – open our minds, our hearts to know You more – and may we represent You well – causing others to desire You!

By: Janene Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You
“Then He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.” Luke 24:45

Life Change

What has changed in your life lately? Maybe it was a birthday, a wedding, someone in your immediate family finding Christ as Lord and Savior. Maybe it wasn’t something to necessarily celebrate about. A phone call, a letter, a diagnosis that suddenly rocked your world.

The other day my eight year old was talking to me. Amazingly, he was sharing some simple yet profound truths. He was remembering things in our lives that had happened. He would talk about the event, and then tell me how that brought about a “life change.” Even he was recognizing the fact that life is full of change.

Especially at this time of year we see the changes in nature. The trees are budding, flowers blooming. New baby calves frolic in the pasture. Each day the weather finds us grabbing for a coat – or trading it in for a sweater.

Life brings so much more than these kinds of changes. We consistently face different opportunities – walk among different challenges. For the Christian, each is a day to discover our Lord to be more glorious than before – and even in the hard times, when uncertainly clouds our skies; He becomes closer to us, more than we have ever needed Him to be because of how we need Him now.

There is a song written and sung by a lady named, Janet Paschal. The chorus closes with these words. “I might not have stayed as close, if I’d had my way.” Our Heavenly Father knows what we have need of even before we ask Him. How He longs for us to commune with Him the deepest needs and concerns of our heart. For when our deepest needs meet Him, in our surrender we find Him to be the Source of our solution.

We can have strong faith – for our Leader is eternally faithful. We can rest on the Rock when the winds swirl around – for His Truth stands forever. We can find His forgiveness – for His mercy lives on evermore. We can know His love – it’s Who He is.

So no matter the “life change” from the past – happening in the present – or coming in the future we serve a God who changes not. He is secure – and not one bit uncertain or afraid. With my little hand in His big One, I can trust – knowing He holds me – and with Him on my side I have no need to fear.

He is the, “I AM.”

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart throughout all generations”

(Psalm 33:11).

How Will We Crown Him?

Psalm 116

The amazing fact of the Christian faith revolves around the eternal immanence of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Circumstances don’t increase or decrease it. Surroundings don’t dictate it. Happenings don’t change it. The fact remains – He is Lord.

Belief in this fact is beneficial to the person who accepts it by faith – but it truly has no bearing on Who He is. He is still Lord whether we believe or not. The consequences for those who don’t believe are brought on by their own unbelief. He is available to all – is no respecter of persons – and forever possess a character of love – that’s WHO HE IS!

Faith comes into the picture when the world around us defies His Lordship. When we are tempted to doubt because of circumstance or happening – that’s when faith grabs hold of the fact that HE IS LORD. It the darkest hour it clings to Him and finds Him faithful.

The manger situation didn’t matter – His Lordship remained. A boy growing up in a poor carpenters shop – He is still Lord. A man, walking the dusty roads of His country – for His people – still Lord. For a momentary day they recognized Him – calling, “Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.” Still Lord. But the next week, when they shouted, “Crucify” – yet even then, He is still LORD!

The comfort and confidence we possess as followers of Christ today is in this Truth – He is Lord. How do we choose to crown Him? What do we choose to do with Him? Our decision doesn’t change Him, but allows Him to change us. It makes all the difference for us now – and eternally.

They waved their palm branches, and shouted His name –

Jesus! Blessed is He

But quickly their cries, turned to, “Crucify,”

And they crowned Him with thorns, their King.

He is still King! He is still Lord!

And I choose to crown Him King

I won’t crown Him with thorns

I’ll crown Him as my Lord –

I choose Jesus, above everything.

Resurrected, He stands – Love prints in His hands

Jesus – precious is He

King of all Kings! He remains and will be

For all of eternity

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“You who fear him, trust in the Lord – He is their help and shield” (Psalm 115:11).

Jeremy's Story

Our God IS an awesome God! Jeremy has come to a personal relationship with Christ just within the last five years. His heart was recently stirred to go with a group to assist in Haiti. He recently shared this story with us at our home church. I keep feeling impressed to share it with you! May you be inspired.


Hi! I’m Jeremy Seitz, and it was my privilege to recently go with a relief team to Haiti. Prior to leaving, I tried to mentally prepare myself for what would come. My sister gave me some advice, “Just take one person at a time.” I didn’t realize how handy that would come in later. Our team was faced with daily situations we were not equipped to handle. So many people needed surgery, and other medical attention that we were not equipped to give them. We were able to meet the needs of many, but felt the overwhelming pressure of the need to do more.

One day, we set up a make-shift clinical in the mountains of Port-au-Prince. Some of the people we went to had never seen a white person before. At this time, I was doing the routine duties of checking vital signs and giving out vaccinations. Over a small hill came a man yelling in French. We quickly turned our attention to the man and saw him carrying his 15 year old daughter. Quickly my good friend, Lisa, and I rushed to his side to see what the commotion was about. Instantly Lisa’s face told me we had a serious problem. Lisa began explaining to me in medical terms what was going on, and even though I only got about half of what she said, I knew the girl needed emergency surgery if she was going to live.

The leader of the tribe explained through an interpreter that there was no hospital close, and even if we did manage to get her there, no one would let her in. God wasted no time in letting me know I had to do everything I could to get this girl to a hospital. The team of nurses I was with simply did not have the strength needed to carry this girl over the mountain to the hospital. I quickly volunteered a few of the tribesmen to help me and off we went. How I prayed to God to help me. My physical body was in no shape for the trek. With God anything is possible.

When we finally reached the hospital, it was as the leader had said, they would not let us in due to the enormous amount of people already inside. Through a crack in the gate I spotted three American Army nurses. I began screaming, “American! American!” They spotted me and came to hear my explanation of the urgent situation. They said they were on their way back to the Army Hospital and would fly the girl and her family with them to get the surgery she needed.

With tears streaming down my face, I thanked them and headed back to the clinic. On the walk back I realized how much God knows each of us. Even though I am not an experienced medical provider yet, He knows how He can use each of us to do His work. He knew, with His help, I could get that girl to the hospital. He knows my lungs were powerful enough to yell and get the attention of those army nurses! He knew me before I was born. I am so grateful that he can use me for His good. God is so good. Jeremy

Take it with You

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:13,14).

Ready to Perform

They were poised in position – the curtain was ready to be drawn. The audience waited with bated breath, their anticipation mounting as the music began. Then, it was time! The months of grueling practice were over. The preparations had past. The time for performance had come. With “ooh’s” and “ah’s” we revel in the excitement of the drama, the beauty of the music, the portrayal of a theme . . . but absolutely nothing on earth can compare to the might and power of our God when it is time for Him to “perform His Word!”

Think with me for a moment – let your mind travel back through time to the monumental occasion when Israel stood under the leadership of Moses at the Red Sea. They had experienced a miraculous deliverance from slavery – had seen the wonders of God at work through the plagues Pharaoh’s hardened heart brought on. The joy of their freedom seemed like it was going to be short lived! With the Red Sea in front of them, mountains all around them, and a pursuing army behind them, their situation would definitely classify as hopeless. Except for One. The One and only true God was ready -- ready to perform.

The Israelites were scared to death. They cried out to the Lord. They became angry with Moses. They despaired! Steadily Moses declared, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today”(Ex. 14:13). He accomplished for them with a miracle that continues to thrill our hearts today! The parting of the water must have been an easy task for such a Mighty God – yet, it was an answer to the impossible in the human realm.

The recognition that we are children of the same God is cause for us to rejoice! Is your “back against the wall?” Walk in obedience. Walk in faith. Walk in the Spirit. Walk in the Word. Walk with God.

Walk with Him in holiness. He Himself who is Holy has created a way for us to be holy, clean, separated unto Him for His use. Walk with Him in Truth – listening carefully for His voice at any moment about any detail small or large. Keep walking until His time is set, until He is ready, He IS faithful! He WILL perform His Word!

When God gave His word to Balaam, it wasn’t going to change. When insistent Balaam went with the princes of Moab, God was not happy with Him, yet in His mercy He did everything possible to get through to him. He even sent an angel to stand in Balaam’s way, and his donkey saw it when he didn’t! That talking donkey would certainly have been a “wake up call!” Even through all of this Balak was determined that Balaam would curse Israel. But God did not change His mind. “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken and will He not make it good? Behold, I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it” (Numbers 23:12-20.) Balak may as well have given up. Every time he tried to get Balaam to curse Israel, the only thing that came out of his mouth was blessing. Finally, after the fourth try, Balaam and Balak parted ways.

As we walk in faith and obedience, we can claim the certain confidence of the promises of His Word. They are for us. He hasn’t changed His mind. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His promises aren’t based on the circumstances around us. His Word is as steady and sure as His character – and He is ROCK SOLID!

Wait on His timing, seek His face, and trust His word – He will perform it.

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

““Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.” Jeremiah 1:12

Waiting Patiently

He waited patiently. I paused a moment –

but there was so much to do – all for Him of course.

He waited patiently – I hurried by.

So much to do for Him you see.

People to serve, plans to make – living to give you know.

He waited patiently, but I had to go.

They were waiting to receive what I had to offer.

I reached inside to pull from my Source, but alas!

He was still waiting patiently where I had hurried by.

Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Our God desires to have fellowship with us. How He loves us . . . How he waits for us to come before Him – to talk with Him – listen to Him – find delight in Him and His Word. Then, He can renew our strength, and fill us with Himself, preparing us for whatever the day holds.

There is nothing more important or more valuable than Him.

Take it with You

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2).

Children Are A Treasure

Have any parents ever had just a moment of question about this scripture? Like . . . when just before church one Easter Sunday morning your three year old daughter finds the brown sugar? Or you give your son money for children’s church . . . and he swallow’s a quarter? Or, you are in the emergency room as a MOM yourself for PNEUMONIA – and the medical staff have the nerve to ask you . . . “Are you the mom of the child who stuck a green crayon up their nose . . . and of the child who swallowed a quarter?” Ok, let’s be honest. At that moment, you don’t especially FEEL like they are a gift from the Lord . . . but guess what . . . feeling’s don’t count, and God’s Word doesn’t lie . . . THEY ARE!

There is a song sung by a popular Christian artist, and the one line sings, “Children are a treasure from the Lord.” Somehow, Mark and I have picked up that one line, and when we are experiencing a frustrating moment of “drama at the Dubbeld’s” we often sing that one phrase. It truly helps us remember – no matter what is happening at that particular time, our children are treasures – gifts from God to us.

It has often been said, “If only they came with an instruction manual . . .” but how many of us read instruction manuals? You know how it is – we look at the picture on the box, we think we can do this – and then, some TIME later – we decide that instructions aren’t all bad!

The Word of God truly is an instruction manual. Along with being a living source of encouragement, a convicting source of reproof when needed, and food for the hungry soul, it truly gives us instructions for helping our children through the crazy cracks and crevices of our fallen world. Literally, the guidance we need is given us! The closer we walk with Jesus, and the more we stay in His Word, we pass on to our children the most precious possession -- the path to develop a personal, intimate relationship with the One who is The Answer.

When we as parents look at what is going on around us, sometimes it gives good cause for alarm. As Christian parents, many of us have a goal to raise Godly children in a society that much of the time ridicules the righteous, or simply has no time for God. We truly have made the decision, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” It seems like such an enormous task. I remember one time when our family was staying in a small travel trailer. Although I was standing in the kitchen, one of my children came in and didn’t see me. I could see them, but they couldn’t see me. Their face was full of panic. They were afraid. Afraid I had gone on some errand and left them behind . . . but I hadn’t. I was right there – standing in the same kitchen – just a few feet from them. Soon their eyes became adjusted to the light. Oh, what relief crossed their face when they saw me. I was there! The funny thing was – I’d been there all along.

We are not on an impossible journey. Easy? No. Possible? Yes. Somehow God helped Noah raise righteous children in days when “the earth was corrupt before God.” How? Genesis 6:9b says, “Noah walked with God.” We not only have a guidebook (the Bible) we each have a personal Guide! When the Holy Spirit has control of our lives, He has full rule and reign in everything. Constantly lifting our children to Him – in every situation – thanking Him for them – and covering them with His precious blood – claiming them for His Kingdom-- this can become our way of life. He doesn’t leave us in the dark, without providing His light! So gently He reminds when the path gets rough – “I’m standing right here!” Lifting our eyes, we can know once again, “With God ALL things are possible.” (Matt. 19:26)

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.” Psalm 127:3 (NLT)

Make the Call

Sick in body, frustrated in spirit, the tears spilled over. Was she doing any good here on this earth? Discouragement was coming in waves, and she was struggling to fight it. Her weakened physical condition only served to drag her spirits lower. Where was the ray of sunshine for this day? Did she even have the strength to grab it if it showed up?


Those closest to her prayed. The One who never leaves us or forsakes us heard. Sometime in the dreary afternoon He prompted a friend to “take a little time” and make a phone call. She didn’t even get to talk to her personally – but she left a message. Then, He prompted another friend to do the same. The messages were simple and kind. Only a reminder that she was prayed for and loved. Her saggy spirits lifted – she cried again – but this time tears of joy. Their “little bit of time” did a “whole lot of good.”

Another lady, overwhelmed by her role as a care giver received a card sent by a friend. Her smile as she said “thank you” shone all over her face. It only took a “little bit of time” to send it . . . and it did a “whole lot of good!”

The cell phone beeped – the text read, “praying for you and your family today.” A smile crossed the face of the one who read it. It was exactly what she needed to know! She was prayed for – today.

The teen stood at a crossroads. Who would he become? A hand upon his shoulder, a smile, a prayer – he felt the love of God – it helped him make his choice. Just “a little bit of time” did “eternal good.”

He was just a little child in the hallway. A happy smile, a kind word – his face brightened and his day was made better. Didn’t cost a cent – yet it was priceless.

Each life-time is a compilation of a whole lot of little moments. It only takes a “little bit of time” in the whole scheme of things, yet, all those “little bits” put together are the makings of the impact of a life.

Who can we impact today?

By: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing”

 (I Thessalonians 5:11).

Teachable

Psalm 27
Teaching is a paradox. Ask any teacher! The mundane of going over and over the details can become a bit of drudgery – until the moment. The moment when the shine in the eyes of the students tells you, "they got it!" When they read for the first time – and you know who taught them those ABC’s and sounded out those blends. That kind of joy is hard to beat – it’s why good teachers keep doing what they do. (And Mom’s who home school!)

Learning is such a privilege. Such a journey of discovery that never finds an end. Sure, graduations come and go, but learning never stops. It can be desired, or distained – accepted or rejected – sought after or endured but it keeps on going. Life itself consists of constant learning. Those who learn to welcome it gain a heart of wisdom – a treasure to be had for sure. Those who reject it follow a painful path with their stubborn refusal.

To exist as useful in the mind – to remain helpful in the heart – to be a constructive part of one’s life, learning has to be coupled with a certain kind of spirit – a teachable spirit. A spirit that is willing to set aside an opinion in order to receive truth.

Jesus was always teaching while He was on earth. Teaching in parables, teaching by His life, using everyday things to get across eternal truths. Those who accepted Him as the Messiah and opened their spirits to receive His Truths were those who learned and benefited from it.

Opening our hearts to Him with a teachable and willing spirit will find us living the life He has designed for us. Not a life under our control – but His. A life full of His Presence is worth any price.

Teach me Your way O, Lord --

Show me Your will.

My one desire, Lord, Yours to fulfil.l

Through life make plain to me --

Your perfect will to see .

Pleasing You may I be--

Teach me Your way.

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path . . .” (Psalm 27:11a)

Is That Really True?

“What does that say?” My four year old questioned, pointing to some words painstakingly placed high above a doorway. “Let us love not in word or deed, but in word and action . . .” I read. “Is that really true?” he asked me next. I answered in the affirmative, and he was satisfied, running off to the next thing that would grab his attention.

At that moment, it dawned on me. He fully trusted whatever I told him. He couldn’t read a word of what that said, but the curves and color of the letters had fascinated him. Even after I read it to him, the maturity level of his age hindered his ability to understand, but he knew one thing. Mom wouldn’t lie. So, since he couldn’t understand, he simply turned to the one he could trust to find out if it was ok. He didn’t question me one second, didn’t even bat an eye, he asked, I answered, he believed.

Life continually places in our pathway inevitable happenings impossible for us to humanly understand. Our culture is full of things placed in places where our eyes will fall – and the enemy is quick to disguise himself as an angel of light. Cleverly he twists the truth just enough to make it seem plausible . . . where can we go to make sure we are not being deceived? To Truth. Jesus tells us, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man comes to the Father but through me.” We know the very Person of Truth can never lie. We can totally trust His Word. Whatever the situation, whatever the question, we can trust Him. We can depend on His Word.

Trust doesn’t mean we always know the end of a situation at the beginning. We simply keep walking in faith. Seek the next step . . . and keep walking. God Himself is the only One who sees the “end as the beginning.” He has the full picture in view! That’s another reason why we can place our complete trust in Him. He is all knowing.

His love for us is so deep, so broad, so wide, and so high – we can never understand it, all we can do is accept it! It is His pure, unfathomable love that gives us yet another reason to trust Him. His love is perfect – and his ways are “higher than our ways.” Even when circumstances change the complete structure of our lives, His love remains the same. Steady, safe, secure. He is forever working all things for our good when we love Him – we can trust Him.

And . . . we can rest in the glorious fact that He IS the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. His sovereignty is steadfast. He is our true Rock. The ages of existence haven’t worn Him down. The waves of living haven’t eroded one bit the unalterable Being of WHO HE IS!!!! Hallelujah! He remains “the same, yesterday, today, and forever!”

So, if far above the doorway you are walking through you find some curves and colors you are wondering about – ask Him, “Jesus, is this true?” Listen closely. If He answers in the affirmative . . . shows you through His Word . . . be content to believe Him – He’s TRUTH!

If your “faith walk” is taking you to places you’ve never been you may turn and ask, “Jesus, is this ok?” Listen closely . . . keep walking . . . keep trusting . . . He knows all.

If life has “gotten in the way” of everything you thought would be, change is inevitable – keep relying. His love is forever, His ways are above, and He is working His plan for those who love Him.

We can REST in the FACT that He is KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS . . . FOREVER, and EVER, Amen.

Take It With You

“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” I John 3:18(NKJV)

Who's it In?

2 Kings 5:1-19

So you didn’t want to laugh. You wanted to scream, to cry, to shout, “it’s not fair.” Maybe you were like In I Kings 19 when he runs for his life, and exhausted says, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!” It’s a good thing God didn’t answer that prayer! He just let him sleep, sent an angel to touch him, and provided for his needs.

The fact is life sends us bitter disappointments at times. Can you imagine the disappointment of the man in our scripture reading for today? Naaman was the commander of the army of the king of Syria. He had known great victory. He was honorable, great, respected. But there was something he was not able to conquer. His own health. He was plagued with leprosy.

You know he had to absolutely be at the end of his rope to even listen to the words of a servant girl through his wife. His hope was suddenly rising again. Maybe there was an answer to this madness he lived with. Nothing else had worked.

Notice when he tells the king of Syria, his hope is placed in the king of Israel. He sends this letter saying, “Now be advised, when this letter comes to you, that I have sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may heal him of his leprosy.” (v. 6) That certainly caused the king of Israel some consternation! He knew this hope was placed in the wrong person. He knew he wasn’t God. He thought Syria’s king was picking a fight!

Then, God’s man steps in. Basically he wants to know why the king is making such a fuss about this. “Please let him come to me,” he says, “and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.” Elisha knows Who his hope is in – the only One Who can meet this need.

Naaman wasn’t at all pleased with what Elisha told him to do. In fact, he was furious! To dip himself in the muddy Jordan river was unthinkable! There were rivers in his land that were way better.

But it wasn’t in the water. It was the active obedience that placed Naaman’s hope where it ought to be. Again, it was a servant who intervened to convince him to obey. Into the water he went seven times – and out he came – healed from his leprosy.

He had placed his hope in the only ONE who could change him. In God and God alone. All his aides, the prophet, and anyone else around heard him as he proclaimed, “Indeed, now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel. . .”

Lift up your eyes to where your help comes from today! Take your hurt, disappointment, exhaustion, loss of hope to Jesus. When we can’t “fix it” He can. He can change us or change the circumstance – whatever He knows is best. HE is our HOPE! HE is our PEACE! We can trust HIM!

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“I will lift up my eyes to the hills – from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord Who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1 (NKJV)

Going Fishing

   Grandpa had an orchard. Even after he and Grandma were no longer operating it, my parents and I would visit there. We usually visited in the fall of the year, and my cousin Tony and I had an absolute ball of fun together. He was around the same age as I, with the neatest ideas, and an awesome little laugh. We would throw green hedge apples, run around in the crisp, country air, and simply enjoy childhood.

   One lovely day, we decided we were going fishing. Now, the “pond” was a rather large mud puddle in their gravel driveway, and our fishing poles were sticks, but we were having the time of our life – “fishing.” Somehow, I managed to get a stick bigger than Tony’s. He didn’t necessarily like this idea, especially at the ripe old age of six or seven, and was determined to “one up” me. So, he headed to the garage and brought back a regular fishing pole. Of all the nerve! My “six year old brain” wasn’t quite sure what to do about this situation, so I just “continued fishing.” Tony took a mighty swing over his head to cast out his line – and the next thing I remember was howls that surely must have awakened any sleeping cows for at least two counties over! The “fantastic fishing pole” was even more “fantastic” than He knew! It really did have a hook on the end of it, which had gotten itself firmly imbedded in my cousin’s scalp. We began a “trudging retreat” to the house, his howls seemingly louder by the moment. Out the front door flew my Aunt Mat and my mom. “What on earth is wrong?” They wanted to know. One look at Tony and their questions were answered. He had “gone fishing” but certainly hadn’t caught the right thing!

   When I picture Jesus walking by the Sea, his relaxed confidence is what strikes me. He saw Simon Peter, and Andrew – He knew they were fishermen. They weren’t “catching” what He desired them to “catch.” He didn’t see them as they were at the moment -- He knew what He could help them become. There is no hesitation in His tone when He calls them. He uses the trade they are familiar with in order to drive his point home – “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matt. 4:19 He wanted to take them from fishing for earthly, temporal, fish, to fishing for people. What a calling!

   Their ready obedience inspires my heart again – this day -- to respond the same way to His calling. They didn’t even take time to clean up the boat! “They immediately left their nets and followed him.” Matt. 4:20 (NKJV) Jesus had a plan – and they were ready to do their part when asked.

   It wasn’t their obligation to make themselves into the kind of fishermen that Jesus needed. Jesus had that all under control! Their obligation was to obey, and allow HIM to MAKE them into the fishers of men He needed them to be. No amount of outward “clean up” can possibly take the place of the work Jesus Christ does in our lives from the INSIDE OUT!

   Today, we are a part of His desire expressed in II Timothy 3:9. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (NIV) “A few here and there” isn’t His desire; He wants “everyone to come to repentance.” He has a place in His Kingdom work for us. Our obligation is to listen and obey what He wants us to do – and allow Him to make us into the “fisherman – or woman” He can make us to be. He wants to help us fish – and catch – for eternity.

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

Then He said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ They immediately left their nets and followed Him.” Matthew 4:19&20 (NKJV)

Timing

I Kings 8:1-6

“Timing is everything.” You’ve heard the phrase – probably even said it yourself. If you are a mom, your children – like mine – probably absolutely love it when you answer their question with, “We’ll see.” Waiting for an answer is something that isn’t particularly enjoyable.

Our culture is the “microwave culture.” With the advance of technology we simply don’t have to wait very long for anything. You want to know how your friends are doing on the other side of the world? Send an e-mail. Forgot to ask what time your family will be home for dinner – send a text. Want to say, “I love you?” Make a quick phone call. The means of communication in our day is awesome.

Sometimes, however, in God’s economy, waiting is part of the process. And . . . it isn’t a “bad thing.” He hears us immediately when we call on Him. He sees whole mural of life – while we can only see our part of the picture. Because He knows all, sometimes His timing isn’t what we supposed it would be – and His answer takes longer than expected – but He will answer!

Isn’t the story in I Kings 8 amazing? God spoke again through His prophet Elisha. This lady had been very kind to Elisha – and he had been gracious to her, praying and restoring her son to life. Now, a famine was on the land and he was telling her to “get out of town.” So, for seven years, she left her home.

During those seven years, she and her son were saved, but she lost her property, and her house. So . . . when she comes back, she goes to appeal to the King to see if she can get it back.

Now, they didn’t live in a “microwave culture!” The King certainly had no idea she was coming. He is having a talk with Gehazi – who was Elisha’s servant – asking him about the mighty things Elisha had done.

I love verse 5! “Now it happened, as he was telling the king how he had restored the dead to life, that there was the woman whose son he had restored to life, appealing the king for her house and for her land. And Gehazi said, ‘My lord, O king, this is the woman, and this is her son whom Elisha restored to life.”

Wow! Talk about “perfect timing!” That did it! The kind restored all that was hers – plus all of the proceeds from the field from the day she left until the day she returned.

Guess what? We serve the same God. The God who arranged the schedules of the king, the servant, and the woman can arrange our schedules too. The process of waiting calls for faith – calls for trusting – but, be encouraged! He knows where you are, and knows what’s best. Keep your hand in His today – He’s the best at “perfect timing.”

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say on the Lord

(Psalm 27:17)!

What is in Your House?

I Kings 4:1-7

What is in your house? Maybe some of you wish you could find something you KNOW in there somewhere – you just can’t figure out where! Has anyone else ever put something in a place so you will “know where it is” only to forget what “place” it was?

The widow in our scripture reading for today didn’t have much of a problem knowing what was in her house. Her possessions weren’t much. She was struggling to simply stay alive – and keep her two sons from being taken by her creditors.

Isn’t it interesting that Elisha doesn’t just hand her a solution from an outside source. Instead he asks her, “. . . what do you have in the house?” (v.2a) Her answer was simple and honest. “Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.” (v. 2b)

One jar of oil. What was that up against the impending disaster? It meant absolutely nothing until God rested His eyes upon it – intent upon using it as a source of deliverance.

He spoke through His servant Elisha – giving the widow a plan. Notice He didn’t reveal all of the plan at once. He simply gave her what to do next. It was up to her to obey – acting in faith.

Next step. Go get more vessels – lots of vessels. Come home, shut the door, and with you and your family begin pouring from your one jar of oil and fill the rest.

She didn’t question him, or wonder how in the world that would happen, she simply did as she was told. They borrowed vessels from everywhere – small vessels, big vessels, all the in between vessels – all of them EMPTY!

Once they were home and the door was shut, mama picked up the one simple jar of oil she had in the beginning. She began to pour, and the touch of God began to flow. “Bring me another . . . bring me another . . .” Can you imagine their amazement. Suddenly normal jar of oil had been transformed into the vessel of deliverance by God Himself. As their faith translated into obedience, the oil kept flowing.

Once the vessels were full and there were no others empty, the oil stopped flowing. What next? She needed to know, so the widow told Elisha what had happened.

Surely there must have been a celebration in that household. She and her sons had been saved. All they had to do was sell the oil, pay their debts, and live on the rest. God had provided the miracle they needed – using simply what was in their house.

What do we need today? We need the breath of the Spirit – the touch of God upon what He has given us. What is in our house? What can He use that He has given us? Ask Him. Listen. (It is not in “our will” but in “HIS WILL!”)Take the faith steps that bring the touch of His hand, the obedience to carry through what He has told you to do – and watch as He brings deliverance– transforming you, and using whatever you have in your house.

Written by: Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Take it with You

“So she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons who brought the vessels to her; and she poured it out” (2 Kings 4:5).

Keep On Asking

Matthew 6

It’s the privilege of talking – of listening – of simply being there, with Him, in His Presence – loving Him, being loved by Him. Why does it seem so hard for us to get there? All it can do for us is take us deeper -- bring more results to our need – teach us how to wait, and what to do in the mean time – comfort us – the Christian’s secret (or not so secret) weapon – calling on God.

Hannah prayed – and God answered with a son. Esther prayed – and God saved a nation. Susanna Wesley prayed – God used her sons John and Charles gave anointed songs, sermons, and through them God brought revival! The mother of John Newton prayed – her son was saved – and through him we were given, “Amazing Grace.” The list goes on, and on, and on . . .Praying MOVES the heart and hand of God!

Keep on asking, keep on believing, keep on seeking . . . He has promised to answer, and we will find.

There is MORE to be had in our Christian Walk!

More of God . . . More empowering . . . More souls saved . . .More of His moving . . .More of His miracles. . .More ANSWERS to prayer . . .

All we have to do is keep on asking!

Take it with You

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find, knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened”

(Matthew 7:7,8).

Hope

Psalm 71
You see it in the faces of the children, watch it in the eyes of the young people, and follow it in the purposeful stride of the young adults. Observe it as it rises to conquer through the struggles of adulthood, pursue it as it takes its place alongside the slowing gait of the elderly – for no generation can succeed without it, no dream can press on unless it possess it, no existence can truly live and exclude it . . . it simply must be present, HOPE!

Hope within itself is beautiful, yet it is hope in our eternal God that leads us on to purpose far beyond our own. His thoughts are far above our thoughts, and His ways far above our ways. To rise above the circumstances – and accomplish His life through us truly begins with the words of David, “And now, Lord, what do I wait for? My hope is in You” (Psalm 39:7).

The importance of a life is found in living a life of daily faithfulness while fixing the hope of the soul on God. We are admonished in scripture time and again of how life is like a vapor. Like the wisp of a cloud, the rising and disappearance of the steam of an old fashioned tea kettle. Here – and so quickly gone. What the vapor of our life permeates greatly resides in whom we place our hope.

Many before us have taken the candle of hoping in God to light the pathway we now walk. Shining on a pathway of Holy living, and selfless giving. Holding high a flame of freedom in Christ, and liberty in our nation that all too soon becomes our responsibility. Yet, it is the tune of hope that proclaims the song we choose to sing – the symphony of praise that we adjust the harmony of our soul to find in all of life’s situations giving thanks.

Lead on! Lead on, O God of hope! Be in the faces of our children! Spring up within the eyes of our young people! Guide the purposeful stride of our young adults! Rise up within us, causing us to conquer through the battles we must face! Continue to walk beside us as our vapor begins to fade . . . we choose to once again place our hope, our faith, our trust, in YOU!

Janene A. Dubbeld/FGG

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune--without the words,

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chilliest land,

And on the strangest sea;

Yet, never, in extremity,

It asked a crumb of me.

Emily Dikinson

Walk boldly and wisely....There is a hand above that will help you on. -- Philip James Bailey

Take it with You

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5&6).

Early Morning Blessings

John 1:1-5

We had a day off from school. I wasn’t sure who was more excited – me or the kids! It wasn’t like we didn’t have any other “pressing duties” of the day – but at least we could rest in a little longer than normal – or so I thought. I’m sure it wasn’t light outside yet when he stood beside my bed. I mumbled some kind of good morning to my young son -- wishing at that moment he wasn’t such an early riser! (He had fallen asleep before we had even made it home the night before.)

He wanted me to get up – but for a very good reason – he was asking me to come and read the Bible with him. I told him I would, begged for a few more moments of rest, and kept my eyes closed. He was very patient. He went off to play – or do some kind of quiet activity for awhile.

Soon, I stumbled to the living room. I was communing with the Lord quietly inside my mind – still trying to awaken to the day around me. The next thing I knew, here was my son, beside me again. “I’m ready,” he said quietly. “Ready?” My mind was still foggy – trying to focus on what I was supposed to be ready for. “There’s no school today,” I said – noticing he was in his uniform. However, he informed me he already knew that. “Ready . . .” I was still trying to figure this out. “No,” he said, “ready to read the Bible.” I got it! He hadn’t forgotten for one moment! He had a goal on his mind and though he was still waiting his mind remained clear. READ THE BIBLE WITH MOM!

He opened the chest where our Bible’s, devotionals, and writing materials are kept. I had taken the Bible’s with me the day before, so it wasn’t there. “Go out and get my green bag on the table,” I told him. He kept persevering! He didn’t just get the green bag; he brought the Bible out of the green bag! Soon we were seated in the living room together, reading a story from Genesis 15 together. Wouldn’t you know it – it was just what his mom needed for the day.

Such a priceless treasure – the gift of my child – and the timeless Word of God. Our days seem to hold more than we are humanly capable of accomplishing many times – but one thing must remain priority – time with Jesus and His Word. There is no substitute! We find the strength we need to face our day – in His Presence. We find the Wisdom we need to face life’s challenges within His Word. The more we read it, the more we need it! The more we listen to it – the more we hunger after Him.

The determination of my young son taught me a big lesson that day. He waited, but he wouldn’t be put off! He didn’t get “busy doing something else” and forget to come back to priority! He wasn’t “weary in his waiting.” He overcame the circumstances and didn’t make excuses when the Word wasn’t where he thought it would be. He sought – he found – he read. His reading didn’t just benefit him! Immediately the words stuck a chord in the heart of his mother reading with him also. Yes, the Bible also says, “a child shall lead them . . .”

So . . . my “day to rest in” had an early beginning – but I wouldn’t shut my eyes for anything to miss these “early morning blessings!”

Janene Dubbeld FGG

Take it with You

“And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness”

(Genesis 15:6).

Pain in the Process

Colossians 3

Have you been slapped in the face — hit in the gut until your breath was taken away? Maybe you’ve had a wound that was beginning to heal, and all of the sudden it broke open again — or the scab came loose — and before you knew it, blood was going everywhere. . . And the process of healing had to begin all over again.

Perhaps you have felt all of these emotions — even though it hasn’t been an actual physical happening. Someone has betrayed your trust, wounded your spirit, thrust a dagger into the heart of you. Maybe it was an action you meant for good — and someone took it as evil. Maybe someone made their mind up about you because they listened to slander, and you couldn’t possibly change their formed opinion . . . Even if all the corn field sprouted wildflowers. Hold on! There STILL is a SAVIOR!!!!

When God first created this gorgeous place called earth, pain wasn’t in the process. Everything was beautiful, perfect, sinless, magnificent! The one instruction that God gave for our benefit was broken. That first sin brought the introduction of pain to our world. Now, pain is simply part of the process. It is our choice weather we “waste the pain” or allow God to use it for our good and His glory.

The beautiful, natural pearl we see displayed wasn’t beautiful in it’s beginning. It began as a tiny irritant to the oyster. Something that wasn’t supposed to be there! Yet, as the oyster continually covers that foreign object with layers of something called “nacre” the illustrious pearl is formed.

Pain begins as an irritant in our lives. It isn’t something we are necessarily overjoyed to receive at first. Only when we call on the Holy Spirit, and He releases His oil into our lives, can we watch that pain be covered and transformed into something of value.

His Holy Spirit makes it possible to forgive — and we must forgive to be forgiven ourselves. His Holy Spirit makes it possible to love — when humanly it’s impossible. His Holy Spirit will exchange our ugly old bitterness for a glorious peace and joy only He can give.

Turning our eyes to look toward the Cross, we see forgiveness in such rare, but marvelous form. “Father, forgive them . . .” our Savior pleads on behalf of those who nailed Him to the Cross. Bearing sins that didn’t belong to Him, carrying shame that should have been ours, paying a debt that wasn’t His to pay, choosing to lay down His life, to redeem His lost creation of man to the Father. What forgiveness! What mercy! What love!

And in the middle of our pain He will not leave us! He will walk the journey with us as long as we’ll let Him. He knows how we feel, and HE can heal — again, again, and again! Hallelujah!

Janene A. Dubbeld

Take it with You

““For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

Matthew 6:14