Goodness: Victory is Mine

2 Peter 1:4-5a

Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness…

Ephesians 6:14-17
Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

The large box jutted over the end of the cart making it difficult for the woman to see where she was going. She managed to maneuver the awkward package to her car. With the trunk flipped open, she struggled to lift the box. A gentleman walked up to her and asked if she needed any help. At first she said no, but he encouraged her to allow his help. He placed the package in her car without difficulty. When she thanked him, he said it was his pleasure. He had just returned from the war and witnessed so much distress and evil, that he wanted to come home and do good. As she pulled away from this gracious stranger, she watched him approach another person in need.

The soldier fought in a physical war where he witnessed evil, destruction, and despair. I've not been in a battle with guns and warfare, but each day a spiritual war swirls around me. Satan and his army attempt sneak attacks and outright assaults. He wants me to make bad choices and ignore good. He lurks around waiting for me to wear down so that I might lose my patience, criticize others, or just give up on my walk with Jesus. But Satan does not win the war of good and evil because Jesus, like the soldier, carries my load. As I think about the new year approaching, I choose to do good. I put on my gospel armor and prepare for the battle of life. You see, I love Jesus and he loves me. Without him I lose the battle, but with him the victory is mine.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

What battles do you face?

Kindness: In Uniform

Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Because I love snow and Christmas, Tim surprised me with a day-trip to Marblehead Lighthouse State Park. After four+ hours on the road and a quick stop in Gibsonburg to pick up my favorite doughnuts, we pulled into the almost empty parking lot. Snow covered the ground and before us stood Marblehead lighthouse decked out in garland and greenery. The moment I stepped out of the car a sense of peace washed over me. Calm swept across my being. I don't find many places on this earth where I fall into a totally relaxed state. But on that small peninsula surrounded by rocks, water, and this time of year—snow, my soul felt a sense of awe and wonder. We wandered around donned in Santa hats for an hour or so. What a wonderful gift for the season.

But that's not the whole story. As we explored on the rocks and snapped photos of the beauty that surrounded us, another car pulled in. Two young police officers climbed out and wandered toward us. They appeared to be checking on the park as they walked out to the rock we stood on. At first they chatted, asked us where we were from and what we we're doing. I'll admit, I got a little nervous. I thought maybe we shouldn't be in the park. As the conversation continued, they complimented us on our holiday hats. Then they did something so sweet. One officer reached in his pocket and pulled out a gift card. "We're doing 'Gifts from Cops'," he said. He handed me a Target gift card. Kindness in uniform. Not only had the trip made my day. Their kind gesture pushed the joy meter to the top. Policemen work on the holidays, they protect us, and watch out for us. And they take the time to be kind. I gave the young man a hug and snapped a photo of them with Tim. I pray those two young men have a blessed holiday.

I hope you have the opportunity to share Jesus' love and kindness with everyone you meet. Merry Christmas!

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

All is Calm All is Bright Because of Jesus

Merry Christmas!

Patience: At Christmas?

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

I remember one Christmas, as a child, I snooped for gifts. Under my mom and dad’s bed I spied a toy ironing board and iron and a few other items that looked like they might be for me. That was the year that I figured out that Santa left the presents early and in my parent’s charge J. My lack of patience in waiting for Christmas morning brought some disappointment. I wondered if Santa even existed. I think I was about five or six years old. 

Had I waited until Christmas morning to unwrap my treasures, I could have avoided my doubt and enjoyed the morning through a child’s eyes one more time.

Sometimes as an adult, I forget the lesson I learned so long ago. I still resist waiting. In some translations of the Bible, the fruit of the Spirit lists forbearance as patience. Webster defines forbearing as holding back with effort. Patience requires acknowledgement and effort. Sometimes I'm not as patient as I need to be. Yet I know from experience when I do produce patience, God blesses me. I continue to work on this part of the fruit of the Spirit, and I thank God that he is patient with me.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

Nonfiction Book Review: Waiting for Wonder: Learning to Live on God's Timeline

Book Description:
What if, in this waiting, God is calling us to more?

It's easy to believe God when a promise is new. It's hard when the years pass and nothing changes. It's even harder when desperation strikes, your plans backfire, and still God does not fill the emptiness. But what if, in this waiting, God is calling us to more?

Join author Marlo Schalesky on a unique, contemplative journey to reveal the wonder that is often missed when we find ourselves struggling to wait well. Walking through the life of the biblical character Sarah, one who knows what it means to wait, you will discover a glimpse of God's character that will give you strength to keep hoping and praying for the desires of your heart.

Waiting for Wonder is a journey into the heart of God where you will wrestle with personal questions, think deeply about God's true character, and learn to appreciate His divine work as you discover your own path to the promised land. Recapture your hope, restore your soul, and renew your vision of a wondrous Savior when you learn to live on God's time.

Leader guide also available.

My Review:

Waiting for Wonder is full of wisdom about God's timing. Walking through the life of Sarai/Sarah as Marlo gives commentary, wisdom, and insight revealed to me a new view of waiting. I was impressed with Marlo's thorough research and in-depth study on the subject. I appreciated the analogies she gave from her own life, and I loved reading "Sarah's" excerpts on life as she figures out how to follow God. (BTW Marlo writes excellent scenarios as Sarah tells her own story.) Sarah made mistakes, just like me and she questioned herself. In the end she knew without doubt that God had her life in his hands all along. If you only read one nonfiction book a year, pick this one. Waiting for Wonder fills a need for anyone who doubts or is anxious about waiting on God's time. I'm well seasoned in life, yet I still need the reminder that God's timing is perfect and worth the wait. I received this book for free from Litfuse.

Because God’s timing is so rarely our own and we lose the wonder in the waiting of life, desperation strikes, plans backfire, and we begin to wonder why God does not fill the emptiness. Be encouraged to find strength and hope in Marlo Schalesky's new book, Waiting for Wonder. Journey into the heart of God where you will wrestle with personal questions, think deeply about God’s true character, and learn to appreciate His divine work as you discover your own path to the promised land. Recapture your hope, restore your soul, and renew your vision of a wondrous Savior when you learn to live on God’s time. 

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/2h7r1zt

About the author:

Marlo Schalesky is an award-winning author of ten books, including "Wrestling with Wonder: A Transformational Journey Through the Life of Mary." A regular speaker and columnist, she has also published nearly 1,000 articles in various Christian magazines, including "Focus on the Family," "Today's Christian Woman," "In Touch," and "Marriage Partnership." Marlo lives with her husband, six young children, nine horses, two dogs, five cats, two parakeets, ten rabbits, two chinchillas, three hamsters, and a bunch of fish in a log home in Salinas, California.

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Learn the true purpose of waiting on God and living on His timeline and enter to win Marlo's giveaway.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• Two copies of Waiting for Wonder (one for you and one to give to a friend)
• A KEEP Collective watch set (with a band and watch)

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on December 23. The winner will be announced December 27 on Marlo's blog.

The Prince of Peace Came Down to Earth-God is Good

Joy: Go Tell it on the Mountain

Psalm 19:8
The rules of the Lord are right.
    They give joy to our hearts.
The commands of the Lord shine brightly.
    They give light to our minds.

At church last Sunday we started singing Christmas carols. The music of the season is so beautiful. As we worshiped God one of the men lifted the rich timbre of his voice to lead us in "Go Tell it on the Mountain." Pure joy came from this singers lungs. The melody floated out over the congregation as the words of the old hymn resonated through the sanctuary. At that moment I felt the pure joy of knowing my Savior came to earth for you and me.

Joy isn't something momentary. This deep satisfaction, contentment, encouragement, and peace are not brought on by the temporary. Pure joy is knowing no matter what, Jesus loves me. My littlest granddaughter picked up a tiny Bible from my bookshelf yesterday and started singing "Jesus loves me this I know." Pure joy bubbled in my heart. This a joy only found in Jesus. I pray everyone finds that joy this holiday season. Praise God for sending his son.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

Nonfiction Book Review: The 100 Most Encouraging Verses of the Bible by Troy Schmidt

Book Description:
Everyone struggles with discouragement as they face various trials of life, big or small. Whether you are struggling with your health, family, job, or relationships, God wants to give you hope and peace again. 

What does he want you to know and remember in the hard times? This book goes straight to the source of all Truth to reveal how much God loves you and how he's right by your side through thick and thin. The 100 verses that are highlighted include well-known passages as well as hidden treasures you may have never read. Each verse is followed by a brief devotional reading that will help you find understanding and comfort from the text--and in the process draw you ever nearer to God. The book's length and focus make it perfect as a daily meditation or to read as a family. It also makes an ideal gift for those who love the Bible and seek the hope of God's promises.

My Thoughts:
I love this little book. Each day features a Bible verse and a brief devotion that can be read in minutes. I've found it as a great way to begin the day on a positive note. The verses Troy Schmidt chose are uplifting. And he keeps the devotion simple. The book is done in chronological order according to the books of the Bible. I recommend The 100 Most Encouraging Books of the Bible to anyone who seeks uplifting support from God each day. I received this book for free from Bethany House.

Are You Listening to Christmas Music Yet?

I'll confess, I tuned in to the lovely melodies of the holidays as soon as Star 93.3 started playing them. And I may have sneaked a few in before then, from my Amazon play list. 

On Sunday the church's worship team led one of my favorites, Go Tell it on the Mountain. I've loved that song since I was a little girl. There are so many wonderful Christmas songs, both old and new. I'm writing a blog post for work later this week. For the post I asked my co-workers to name their top three favorite holiday songs. Of course I had to answer the question, too. 

I have so many that I love. I had a hard time narrowing the list down. But I did. 

My all time favorite has to be "The Christmas Song." You know the one about chestnuts roasting on an open fire. I am partial to Johnny Mathis's version, his voice is so smooth. And no doubt we listened to his version on the radio when I was young. 

My numbers two and three are performed in a Charlie Brown Christmas. Charlie Brown's friends sing "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" at the end of the show. I love this carol because it reminds me of the joy the angels brought to the shepherds. I can't imagine how they must have felt, minding their own business on the hillside, when the angels appeared. How exciting to receive the news of Jesus birth first hand.

Last, I love the song "Christmas Time Is Here" written by Lee Mendelson and Vince Guaraldi. 

What are your favorite holiday songs? I'd love to know.

Nonfiction Book Review: Getaway with God: The Everywoman's Guide to Personal Retreat by Letitia Suk

About the book: 

What if a simple day away could transform your life?

Does spending time with God sound like just one more thing to check off an ever-increasing to-do list? How are you supposed to fit in anything that threatens to be more time-consuming? Too often there's simply no room to experience the intimacy, grace, and peace that God offers us.

Getaway with God does more than invite you to step away from life's pressures to take a personal retreat. It shows you exactly why you must---for your sake and for your family's.

With grace and warmth, Letitia Suk provides step-by-step guidance and the necessary tools to enable any woman on any budget to plan time away, whether it's a quick, half-day break or a weeklong time of restoration. You'll find detailed steps for preparation, including descriptions of different kinds of retreats and how to choose the best one for you, and you'll learn ways to bring the renewal you experience home with you. Practical appendixes identify retreat centers nationwide and provide exercises and prayers to kick-start your getaway with God.

No matter what your season in life, the time for retreat is now!

My Review:
Getaway with God is full of great information on how to create a personal retreat. The author is experienced and offers practical advice. I like that she gives different versions and types of retreats. She shares good information for everything from a few hours of quiet to a full five days away from everything. She gives guidance on what to take and ways to focus on God. One of the things I would enjoy is getting out and walking in nature and having someone else cook for me. Letitia shares about her own experiences with retreat and what worked and what didn't. If you're planning a personal retreat or hope for one in the future this is the perfect book. This would also be a great addition to a library. I received this book free from Litfuse.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/2gCczSG

 

About the author:

Letitia invites women to chase the Intentional life. She writes and speaks of God's renewal and restoration and offers platters of hope to women in each season of life. Tish is also a personal retreat guide and life coach in the Chicago area and moonlights as a hospital chaplain. You might run into her walking by Lake Michigan, browsing resale shops, or making up a new tradition. She blogs at hopeforthebest.org and is also the author of Rhythms of Renewal.

Website | Facebook | Twitter 

Do you need a day away from busyness and stress to transform your life? Schedule a day and learn how to make the most of your time of refreshment with Letitia Suk's new book, Getaway with God. You’ll find detailed steps for preparation, including descriptions of different kinds of retreats and how to choose the best one for you, and you’ll learn ways to bring the renewal you experience home with you. Practical appendixes identify retreat centers nationwide and provide exercises and prayers to kick-start your getaway with God.

Get ready for your own getaway with God by entering to win a travel bag set from Letitia.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Getaway with God
• A Vera Bradley XL Duffel Travel Bag
• A Vera Bradley Cosmetic Trio

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on December 16. The winner will be announced December 19 on the Litfuse blog.

Peace

James 3:17-18
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

What does the word peace mean to you? I enjoy a peaceful day. One that is uneventful and goes along as expected. I want my home to be peaceful. I struggle with conflict and prefer everyone get along. I want quiet instead of noise. Those are all examples of external peace. And it's oh so important to be a peacemaker. But the most crucial and sometimes hardest to accomplish peace is the kind that only Jesus can pour in my heart— an internal, tranquil calm. This harmony with God brings an internal serenity like nothing else I've experienced.

As I prepare for the Christmas season, life’s already hectic pace picks up. At times I am overwhelmed with all I need to accomplish. That’s when I chase after Jesus' peace more than ever. I grab a moment of quiet and let his calm envelop me. Time in his word, time in prayer, and just time to sit and listen to God all restore my peace. Then I can share that peace with others. As the busyness of the Christmas season begins, I pray that God’s peace brings you calm and rest. Praise God for peacemakers.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.