Does GOD Have A Plan Even In Difficult Circumstances?

It was an amazing day at church where a new friend, Ben, whom Anthony and I met while he was in the hospital joined us, along with his neighbor Tina. It was their first time ever going to church and it just so happened to be Baptism week! They were able to witness tons of people giving their lives to CHRIST, accepting the freedom our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST brings. It was an incredible day of joy and celebration! 

After church we gathered together to visit, took some pictures and introduced them to some of my amazing friends/church family, who unbeknownst to them have been praying for them. I'm so thankful for the Power of Prayer and the Blessing of The LORD'S answers. I'm thankful for the opportunity JESUS places in front of us no matter where we are or what is going on, as the reminder that I met these amazing people during a difficult time, (Anthony's long hospital stay/ordeal). You see friends, GOD has a plan even during trials, a bigger picture. Join me in praying that we see people, situations and opportunity to pray for others wherever The LORD has placed us in the moment. You and I were made for more than we so often settle for. I pray we see people through the Eyes of CHRIST, allowing HIM to help us reach out to people in need. In JESUS' Name, Amen. 

Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."~John 13:7

Jump on the Thankful Train...what are you thankful for?

Who Is The President Of the United States?

The hubby and I walked over to vote around 4:45. I was worried the lines would be long after seeing news reports. I'm happy to say we walked right in and straight to a polling booth...no waiting at all!

This election has been difficult. There's been such a division in our country as the candidates have appeared less than promising. But I'm still thankful for the freedom to vote. I'm thankful that as Americans, "we the people" are still able to choose who we want to lead our nation. Friends, as we await the final outcome, may we be filled with this truth...*GOD* is still Sovereign over it all. I'm so grateful for this reminder. I pray that as our next President is chosen, we will set aside all differences and come together as "one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

"Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,

for everything in heaven and earth is yours.

Yours, Lord, is the kingdom;

you are exalted as head over all.

Wealth and honor come from you;

you are the ruler of all things.

In your hands are strength and power

to exalt and give strength to all."~1 Chronicles 29:11-12

Jump on the #ThankfulTrain...what are you thankful for?

I Got Pulled Over For What...?

It was in that moment, after he walked back to the flashing lights, I was reminded to pray. I didn't want to...I was mad! I mean really, what CHP officer pulls someone over on the freeway for tinted windows? My hubby couldn't believe it. My mother-in-law and 98 year old aunt were sitting quietly in the back seat, a little perplexed by the whole situation. We had just finished a great day at The Flower Gardens and now this!

Let me back up for a minute to the start of my day. It all began with my morning prayer, "Lord, help me to be a light for You today, not my will but Yours. As you bring people in my path, remind me to pray for them. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

During the first part of the day, I prayed for several people as we walked through the beautiful gardens. My joy spilling out in prayer. 

Who know's, I may be the only person praying for them. I know the importance of prayer and I know The Lord has divine appointments for each of us daily. So, with that in mind, am I only called to pray for people during happy times? Or does The Lord want me to also pray for people who cross my path even in difficult ways?

I prayed for the police officer as he sat in his car writing my ticket. It wasn't as heartfelt as my prayers earlier in the day. But I prayed for a hedge of protection around him while he worked. I prayed that if he didn't know Jesus, He would meet the officer right where he's at. I prayed for peace and comfort for him and his family. Then I reluctantly signed my fix-it ticket.

Later I thought, "What if I'd been even bolder? What if I'd stepped completely outside of my situation, choosing to be, KING and KINGDOM focussed?"  What if I'd said, "Do you or any of your family and/or friends need prayer for anything? I send out prayer requests for my church and would love to pray for you." Of course this would have to be said after signing the ticket or it wouldn't be taken as a sincere request.

How powerful would that have been to truly show Christ-like love; not thinking of me, but him? Hmmm...difficult appointments that call me to rise higher, looking to Jesus for HIS WILL in my everyday situation. 
Lessons. Growth. Areas The Lord is asking me to go deeper in my faith and trust. 

I pray that each and every one of you has a deeper encounter with Jesus in the coming days and weeks. I pray you seek Him, He's calling you to be bolder in reaching out to others. You and I are called for more...KING & KINGDOM FOCUSSED. Let Christ be formed in and through you.

But Jesus answered them, “My Father has been working until now, and I have been working.”~John 5:17

"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men"~1 Timothy 2:1

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints"~Ephesians 6:18

"Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart"~Luke 18:1