Choices...and the "Ripple Effect"...

It was so nice when Tim and I had the pool to ourselves recently.  As I watched him swim, I noticed the ripples swell and shift across the entire pool.  Later, I watched as the pool became very still...quiet...peaceful...and uninterrupted.  I gently placed my feet into the water and noticed the soft sway of motion.  Again I waited for the water to become calm.  Although I knew what would happen, I had to compare results...and began frantically kicking.  The water did not disappoint.  Harsh ripples immediately scattered throughout the pool, which seemed to take much longer to dissipate.

I began to think...isn't life much like that?  Whatever our decisions, actions and behavior involve...affects countless others.  How we treat each another makes a significant difference!  If we are gentle, kind, respectful, loving, patient and selfless, the soft ripples may be welcomed blessings for others.  Yet approaching others with harshness, disrespect, selfishness, neglect and insensitivity...will produce painful ripples...and destruction...often permanently. 

How we treat others is extremely important...much more than we may ever realize.  The "ripple effect" of our words, actions, choices and behavior are unprecedented.  We never know what another person feels, thinks, experiences or considers at any moment.  Never.  May our choices reflect the love and compassion of God...above all.♥~thl   ...Romans 12: 9>18

Symphony or cacophony?

Music is one of my greatest passions.  Those who know me best know I dearly love music...singing, playing, writing, directing, listening and learning.  I was blessed with a musical family background.  My Dad sang as Church worship leader for many years.  My mother also sang beautifully.  My four brothers have music abilities.  Two grandmothers played piano.  My present family sings and plays various instruments.  Music has taught me much about theory...and life.

I wonder....what would happen if music was limited to only one part being sung...or one instrument played...or one voice allowed...or one dynamic observed?  It would not be very effective or positive.  For music is built on many facets joining together...in unity...yet with harmony...creating incredible messages and movements as God intended. 

I wonder...if one of the greatest gifts God gave us is music...bringing many parts together to create the fullest representation and delivery of this glorious gift.......how much more important is it that His children join together to accomplish even more?

I wonder...what would happen if we stopped comparing, bickering, degrading, ignoring and competing...and began offering what we have been given to the greater design and purpose God intended?  What if we loved more, listened more, cared more...encouraged more...became more like Him and less about ourselves? What kind of music...message...praise...glory and honor would we present for Him?

Personally, I prefer a symphony instead of a cacophony...anytime.  I sincerely believe He deserves that...and so much more.♥~thl 

Psalm 150

His beauty...His care...His hope...

 

 

As I watered our flowers and trees tonight, I was amazed at the beauty and overflowing growth of God's incredible creation.  (Pictures shown are a couple examples of our arrangements this summer.)  Yet I was also reminded of another truth.

 

What if these beautiful flowers were neglected...never watered...or given nourishment...or allowed in the sunshine...or rid of dead leaves...or cared for as needed?  Undoubtedly, they would not survive. 

 

Yet God provides rain, sunshine and people who love to manage the care of His flowers, plants, trees, etc..  There is hope for these beautiful creations...because He takes care of their needs directly and indirectly through others.

 

I wonder...how many lives feel neglected...malnourished...surrounded by darkness...withering away...and without care?  If God cares so much about beautiful flowers and all of His amazing creation...how much more does He care about each precious life He creates?  

 

I wonder...how many people He places in our path for us to care about...for Him?  I wonder...how beautiful each life could become...overflowing with purpose, hope and love...if we only took the time to nurture them...for Him?♥~thl

 

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."  Romans 15: 13  

A new week...blahs or blessings?

A new week has begun. We can dread the work ahead or we can anticipate His leading and continued Presence through it all. May you all have a positive, peaceful and productive week. Be blessed and a blessing!♥~thl

"Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long." Psalm 25: 4>5

Insomnia...and blessings...

It is no secret that I deal with insomnia.  But that can be a blessing at times. The stillness of the night provides many opportunities to be alone with God... listening, learning and basking in His loving Presence.  As I read the following Scripture passage tonight, I thanked God for the time we share...and the moments of sleep that eventually follow.  What a joy to know that God never slumbers or sleeps...and never tires of me...or my insomnia.<3~thl

"On my bed I remember You; I think of You through the watches of the night.  Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings, My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me."  Psalm 63: 6>8

Lessons of life...

When our local paper arrived this week, it included "back to school" information:  principals, teachers, bus drivers, classroom listings, meetings, etc..  That brought back countless memories of our children's school days.  Our daughter has been out of college for two years.  Our son is a college senior.  Some people ask "where did the summer go?"  I ask..."where did the years go?" 

Much has changed over the years.  Our children are adults.  Our parents' needs are increasing. Roles have shifted with our children and parents.  Plans we thought would happen...didn't.  Plans we didn't imagine would happen...did.  I find myself increasingly aware of the brevity and fragility of life. 

I wonder...is my life making a difference?  Am I accomplishing what God created me to do?  I am sure I have more years behind me than ahead of me.  In the time remaining, I feel more urgency than ever to become more...do more...love more...and live more...for Him. 

My purpose and plans were once very clear.  Now they seem less obvious.  However, I must admit that my sense of trust...peace...hope...fulfillment...and dependence on Him are stronger than ever. There is no doubt that He is leading...and I am following.  This is a tremendous adjustment when I am known for being driven, goal-oriented and a multi-tasker! Yet I am amazed that the Creator of this vast universe, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords...designed me, leads me and loves me.

I will never stop learning about Him in this journey of life.  Nor will I ever stop leaning on Him.  Thank You, God, for never giving up on me...or Your plans for me.<3~thl   Jeremiah 29: 11>13

L.i.s.t.e.n.....

All too often, I observe many people talking yet very few listening.  I find this heartbreaking and tragic.  Recently, I read that the word "listen" is used in 412 Bible verses while the word "hear" is used 550 times.  That seems quite significant.

If we are to care about one another as God intended, we may consider how to listen more effectively.  Perhaps this very basic acrostic I have designed for the word "listen" will provide a few ideas.

L> Let the individual speak freely, without interruption or distraction

I>  Inquire at appropriate times for clarification and direction.

S> Silence shows respect and sincerity as the individual shares thoughts and feelings.

T> Take time to observe what is said...as well as what is not said.

E> Encourage the person to feel safe and valued...by God...and by you.

N> Never jeopardize healthy boundaries or Christian principles for you or the individual.  Be wise.

Dear God~Please help us share Your love more by listening.  May our hearts, minds, ears and lives be more open to caring for others as You so genuinely care about us.<3~thl

"My dear brothers, take note of this:  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry," James 1: 19

His incredible reminders...

Dear God~
As I gazed toward the sky last night, seeking You once more, I noticed something incredibly beautiful.  I was hurrying home before another storm arrived...but what I saw brought me to a complete stop.   Looking in front of me, I thought the clouds and lighting resembled the shape of an angel. I immediately thought of angels sent long ago with messages for others.  Yet when I turned and saw the clouds beside me, I literally gasped.  The image I saw resembled a face peering from the Heavens!  I was reminded of the Scripture passage in Deuteronomy 31: 6:

"Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He wll never leave your nor forsake you."

I have always loved gazing into the sky.  But this time, I felt so much more than tremendous awe of Your creation.  I sensed Your Presence...Your assurance...Your love...and Your peace.  I am certain that there is hope in You...always.  Thank You, Heavenly Father, for another assuring "Nod from God."  No matter what happens around me or within me...You are with me...lighting the way and carrying me through.  May I reflect You...above all.<3~thl

Another day to trust..

The day was busy.  The lists were long.  So much to do.  So many projects. Many plans to address.  It was another day to count blessings for they always outnumber burdens. 

Then heartbreaking news came...again.  I felt like my breath had been knocked out of me.  I looked to the heavens, knowing God is with me...clinging to His peace, hope, love and strength.

I wondered...what will I possibly write a devotion about tonight?  I am too numb to write.  Then I remembered.  What I write is not about me.  It's about Him...always.

Soon I read Deuteronomy 7: 9...
"Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands."

Thank You, God, for reminding me that I can know...without doubt...without exception...without interruption...without regret...that You are God...faithful, loving, eternal and everlasting!  You are able and available, trusted and transforming, holy and healer...and I will trust You...through it all.<3~thl

Inevitable change...Eternal Father...

While "away from it all" last week, I thought about life...lots!  So much has happened in our lives recently.  So much is happening in our lives presently.  So many changes will happen in the future. 

I admit.  There is much I don't understand in this life.  I want to know "why" and "how" in every situation.  I want to know "what" to do...or be...or say...to make a difference.

Yet deep within, I realize that the most important part of my life is Who I know holds this life in His hands.  He has answers.  He has purpose.  He has strength.  He has hope.  He knows where I have been.  He knows where I am.  He knows where I will be.  He knows all that surrounds me.  He knows all that is within me. 

Changes are inevitable.  Yet, He is eternal.  I know He is with me.  And that will never change.  I will trust Him.<3~thl

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5>6

Night storms...

Dear God~Night has arrived. Storms are headed our way. A new week begins. Thank You for hope in the darkness, peace in the storm and purpose each moment. Your Presence makes all the difference!♥~thl

 Isaiah 26:3

His helpers...

"One of our assignments in life is to help wipe away tears. We are never more like God than when we help hurting people." (Joel Osteen)

Dear God...May we wipe away tears instead of cause them. May we reflect You, Your love and Your compassion...above all!♥~thl

Moments with my man...

Tim and I are back home now after several days away together. I am so thankful for each moment we had to reflect, rest and replenish our lives for awhile. I love my honey very much and look forward to another trip together asap. Thank You, God, for our marriage and family. May I never forget all You have done for us!♥~thl

Simple thanks...

Dear God~Today I simply thank You...for Your love, forgiveness, hope, Presence, peace, faithfulness and guidance. You make all the difference on this journey as I walk Home to You.♥~thl

Isaiah 26: 3

Notice...and care...

"You grow more like Jesus every time you notice those who feel unnoticed and care for those who feel unwanted." (Rick Warren)

Dear God~May we remember this truth...and put it into action.  When we have forgotten to serve, we have forgotten what our Savior came to show us.  May we be more about Him and less about ourselves.<3~thl

His love endures forever...

Dear God~Sometimes the night sky is so clear that the moon and stars are easily visible.  Other times, heavy clouds obstruct light from shining into our perspective of Your vast nighttime arena.  What amazing peace rushes through my heart to know that Your Presence faithfully surrounds us, sustains us and soothes us on this journey.  Thank You, God, for the assurance of Your Light, Love and Life.<3~thl

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever.  Give thanks to the God of gods, His love endures forever.   GIve thanks to the Lord of lords:  His love endures forever.  to Him Who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever. who by His understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.  Who spread out the earth upon the waters, His loves endures forever. Who made the great lights--His love endures forever.  the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever. the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever." Psalm 136: 1>9

Night Light...

Dear God~Even in the darkest night, knowing You are the Light of my life...I am assured there is hope...always.♥~thl

"The day is Yours, and Yours also the night; You established the sun and moon." Psalm 74: 16

His light...my life...

"The Lord is my Light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27: 1

Thank You, dear God, for the Light, Love, Salvation and Strength You provide. No matter what happens around me or within me, I know You hold me in Your arms of hope and peace.♥~thl

(Picture taken in our front yard last weekend.)

Embrace the blessings...

 

Dear God~Thank You for both obvious blessings and subtle blessings in this journey. May our walk with You be so consistently intimate that we embrace each beautiful reminder of Your love. You are amazing!♥~thl

Facing today together...

Good morning, God! What will we face together today? Thank You for holding me in Your arms each moment. May my words and deeds reflect You...consistently, compassionately and completely.♥~thl

Another reminder of His glory...

"Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be over all the earth."  Psalm 58: 5

Thank You, God, for daily reminders of Your love, faithfulness, glory and hope!  Your creation continually amazes me with Your power, beauty and kindness.  Knowing the God of all creation...made me and loves me...makes this journey so incredible and worthwhile.  May my life honor, reflect and please You...each moment. You are Lord of all!<3~thl

(After an afternoon rain, I stepped out on our deck and saw this breathtaking view.  Thank You, God!<3~thl)

Reminiscing...realizing...regretting...and remembering...

As time passes, I find myself reminiscing...realizing...and sometimes regretting.  I think about times with loved ones who are now gone...and I miss them.  I remember times with my parents and four brothers...and wonder how we all grew up so quickly.  I recall childhood friends, my home Church, school days and college years.  I realize...life is indeed passing rapidly.

I regret that I didn't accomplish more with loved ones in the moments we had.  I regret that I didn't work harder and longer to help others.  I regret that I haven't accomplished much more in the years I have lived.  I regret that I didn't become this or that...on so many levels. Then...I remember.

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion:  therefore I will wait for Him.' The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."  Lamentations 3: 22>26

Even when I didn't realize the frailty of life...even when I didn't cherish moments enough...even when I didn't make the most of opportunities...God continues to love me...faithfully.  His purpose for my life is not ruined. His hope remains.  Instead of "what ifs" and "why didn't I"...I can focus on Who He is...and wait for Him.  I no longer need to regret....but am able to rejoice that my life remains in His hands...past, present and future. 

Maybe...I had to reach this point in my life to be pliable enough for His plans.  I wait...and trust Him...completely.<3~thl

Call....you know how...

"Call if you need us. You know how to reach us."

I wonder how many times I heard those words as I drove away from my Virginia home heading for college in Kentucky. I am sure my precious parents said them countless times as I traveled. Now we say those words to our adult children...as well as to our parents. Time passes much too quickly. It doesn't seem possible that our children are adults. Nor does it seem possible that our parents are in a season of needing us to help take care of them. We are glad to help. We cherish each moment with our children and our parents. We know...all too well...how quickly life changes.

Sometimes I feel I am not strong enough, doing enough, visiting enough, calling enough, working enough, giving enough or simply...being enough. I love my husband, children, parents and friends so much. I just don't know how to get everything done for everyone I want to help. I fear I am letting them all down.

Yet today...as my heart ached with regret for not doing more for all those I love...I found a wonderful verse. I have read it many times. But this time...it grabbed my heart even deeper.

"By day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me--a prayer to the God of my life." Psalm 42: 8

Thank You, God, for reminding me that You are always with my loved ones...my family...my friends...and even me...day and night. That will never change. I now hear You saying..."Terri, call if you need Me. You know how to reach Me." My help...my hope...my strength...and my peace...are in You, O Lord!<3~thl

Thankful for another...

Dear God~
Thank You for...
another day You allow me to breathe,
another storm You brought me through,
another night You hold me close,
another blessing You sent my way,
another burden I place in Your care,
another reminder of Your great love,
another tear I know You caught,
another moment of Your assurance,
another thought I share with You,
another step we take together,
another song I sing to You,
another lesson I have learned,
another promise You have kept.
Thank You, God, for never letting go of me
On my journey Home to You.<3~thl

"I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.  May my meditation be pleasing to Him as I rejoice in the Lord."  Psalm 104: 33>34

He restores my soul...

When physically exhausted, I look forward to replenishing sleep. When emotionally depleted, I look forward to personal retreat. When spiritually weary, I know He listens, loves and leads me to rest and heal in His Presence. Thank You, God, for restoring my soul at just the right time.♥~thl
Psalm 23

Sunburn vs. Sonshine...

It was a very hot and humid day.  Rain had been plentiful.  Our yard and shrubs were obvious proof.  Micah drove home from college to help us mow the yard and trim shrubs.  I don't usually work outside in such conditions.  Soon Tim would leave for work and Micah would return to Lexington.  My help was needed. 

Those who know me best know that my body doesn't tolerate heat, humidity or sunshine at all.  My "help" didn't last long.  Chilling in 80+ degree weather is not a good sign, nor were other painful symptoms.  It was time to retreat.  That night, I realized a major flaw in my plan.  Yes, I stayed hydrated.  Yes, I wore appropriate clothes.  Yes, I wore SPF 100 sunscreen.  Yes, I forgot to put it on my shoulders.  Yes, sunburn is in my present vocabulary...which should never happen.

I began thinking.  I didn't run outdoors carelessly or without effort to protect myself.  I thought I had done what was necessary.  But in the rush for time, I left a part of my skin vulnerable...and it was soon damaged.

Doesn't this happen to us on other levels?  We try to do what is right.  We attempt to focus on what is good, pure, honorable and pleasing to God.  Yet we often find ourselves struggling with some unexpected issue, concern, conflict or vulnerability...and find ourselves hurt...even damaged.

I thank God for His love, mercy, grace and forgiveness.  I cling to His hope, peace and restoration.  I know I fail...repeatedly.  But that doesn't define me.  For in Him, there is healing, strength, joy and purpose.  His Light shines forevermore...and that is SONshine I definitely enjoy!<3~thl

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73: 26

Messes...and mis-steps...

It's no secret that I am a perfectionist. Today I reorganized my shopping lists since categories and order had wavered. Just wish the rest of my life was that manageable. Then I remember...God still loves me in spite of my mess-ups and out-of-order steps. I am so grateful.♥~thl

A step at a time...

Dear God~One step at a time...this journey unfolds. Some steps seem familiar while others are uncertain and even frightening. Knowing You hold me each moment makes the journey possible. Thank You, God, for peace that comes from Your loving Presence.♥~thl
Proverbs 3: 5>6

Beautiful promises...

Thank You, God, for Your amazing love, promises, assurance and reminders...at just the right time.♥~thl

Each...

Dear God~Each moment is a gift...may we live it. Each breath is a miracle...may we cherish it. Each life is precious...may we value it. Each time we love makes a difference...may we reflect You...always.♥~thl

Holding us.....

Dear God~Thank You for holding us up, holding us together and holding us close to You. I am amazed...♥~thl

Isaiah 26: 3

Happy Birthday, America!

"God bless America...land that I love. Stand beside her and guide her through the night with a light from above...." Dear God~Thank You for our country. May we seek Your love, light, hope, guidance, peace and restoration more each day.♥~thl

Not so ordinary...

Dear God~
It was an ordinary day.
I made an ordinary business call.
Such calls usually last five minutes.
It took much longer.

The lady apologized for her lack of focus.
I assured her it was no problem.
Then she shared her family tragedy....
A sister...very ill...an extended time...life ended...out of desperation.
Burial today.

I prayed. I listened...and prayed...and listened more. 
I told her I would continue to pray. She thanked me. 
I only know her first name.  I won't forget her. 
Thank You, God, for allowing our paths to cross...
On no ordinary day.

I wonder...how many people cross our paths...
On an ordinary day...
Whose lives are anything but ordinary...perhaps even desperate?
They need someone to genuinely listen, care and pray.
Do we notice?  You do, Heavenly Father.  So should we.<3~thl

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."  2 Corinthians 1: 3>4

Lots to learn...

Dear God~Even in this season of my life, I realize that I have so very much to learn about You...listening to You...following You.  Sometimes I think I understand what You want me to do...and it falls apart.  Sometimes I believe with all my heart that I hear You calling me to do something else...and that doesn't work out, either.  What I do know is that You are always with me, even when I stumble and fall...misunderstand...or am fervently listening to You for more guidance, direction, purpose and peace.  Thank You for never giving up on me...and for loving me...anyway.<3~thl

"Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long." Psalm 25: 4>5

His magnificent touch...

Dear God~Thank You...for magnificently touching our hearts through the words, hearts and deeds of others. I am amazed...that You love me...and embrace me...continually! May I find a way to reflect You to others for the rest of my days.♥~thl

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19: 14