a better hope

Self-sufficiency, independence, and self-reliance are things God has been dealing with me about. Imagine God taking away the thing that has driven you and guided you your whole life. Imagine where that puts you and how you feel about yourself and the world. It's quite a shock. But, we are the sheep of His pasture, and He is the One who guides. He knows best. That's something it took me many years to learn. I'm learning it now. Self-sufficiency leads to ruin. I'm glad I'm no longer on that path. If anyone actually reads here, please pray for me, as this is very difficult. God is telling me to rest in Him and let Him take the wheel. That doesn't sound so bad, but for someone like me it's scary. Pray I learn to trust. I've been through so many storms. I've been in many battles. But this is what makes me tick. This is at the very heart of me. God knows what He's doing. This is for the best. God, do what You have to do. I trust you. Remove whatever in...

  The book of Jonah isn't very long, yet it contains a brilliant little story that is often overlooked. We've been taught the story since Sunday school, but how much have we pondered what actually happened and the ridiculousness of this story? Read on if you'd like to take a moment to consider the reality of what happened in this story of stubborn Jonah.  Here is the story if you'd like to re-read it before we begin . This is not an exhaustive treatise; just observations on this little book. I've often thought that if I were ever to be like one of God's prophets, I would most resemble Jonah, as he was full of anger and bitterness. I'm no longer full of anger, though, as I spent much time being humbled in my walk and also because I've forgiven much. Why was Jonah so angry with God and the Ninevites, anyway? He was angry with the Ninevites because they were mortal enemies of his people, the Jews. They persecuted and pillaged and killed the Jews for quite s...

  Recently I felt God convicted me of something. I'll mention that in a little bit. But first, I want to talk about the names of God. During these strange and troubling times, it is important to keep our eyes on God because "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." (Isaiah 26:3)  For those who are sick (or afraid they will get sick), claim this promise: " Bless the  Lord , O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:   Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;  who healeth all thy diseases;   Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;   Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's." (Psalm 103:2-5) Recently, I came across the photo below which lists 17 names of God.  Names are very important to God. How many times did he dictate what His people should name something or someone? I don't know, but it's ...