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For most of my life, I was really scared. I didn’t know the power of God’s love that could heal me deep inside.

Let not your heart be troubled:
John 14:1

Seriously? Are you kidding?

How could we not let our hearts be troubled with all of the overwhelming and confusing circumstances we faced? How could my hypersensitivity, awful migraines, CCPTSD (didn’t know I was even dealing with this until decades later), job and family situation not cause us to be troubled?

Along with everyone else in that tiny Mexican church in the San Fernando Valley, Ann and I had just been filled with the Holy Spirit. Following that experience, soon after moving from California to Oregon for school, it seemed like all hell broke loose.

But, God had a plan He was working in our lives…Your’s, too.

Annie and I were so broken (We had each had nervous or emotional breakdowns) I didn’t think we could ever be fixed. We were troubled and afraid most of the time.

Years ago, I didn’t realize or understand how conformed I was to this world. I was a Christian living without a renewed mind. Until Jesus began to transform me by beginning to show me how to renew my mind to the wonderful life He knew I could have in Him, I just got offended by other Christians who were free in Jesus and who wanted to encourage me to seek more of Him like they had. I have to admit, they had something I didn’t have, I wanted what they had, and Annie and I finally discovered how to begin the long healing process we needed to be able to live in the freedom being a disciple of Christ affords all who seek Him.

Even though I couldn’t “get it” at the time, God was saying to us, “I want to enable you to live in Eden in the midst of this present world.” Maybe you’re like us. Like Jesus’ mother, Mary, Abraham and Sarah, Zechariah, and all the others throughout time God had spoken seemingly impossible yet wonderful promises to, we thought, “Lord, how can that be?”

So many today are angry and they let anger oppress and torment them. Many are angry because they’re too conformed to this world like Annie and I were. They don’t know there is another way, God’s way. Jesus wants to transform them and set them free from anger. He wants to replace anger with His wonderful peace.

for the anger (or jealousy, fear, bitterness, shame, greed, depression – the flesh – you name it) of man does not produce the righteousness (the right living God knows will give us His kind of life that makes us free indeed) of God.
James 1:20

Years ago (and God still has to remind me still of this from time to time), God said, “Mark, stop getting angry about how your life – or anything in this world – is going and trust Me. You must learn to trust Me. I have a plan for your life but it will not and cannot come about until you place your trust in Me and stop getting upset. This is why it was so absolutely critical for you to learn to depend on Romans 8:28 and other pertinent parts of My Word I brought to your attention.”

While I get tripped up every now and then, I can tell you that what God told me has made a huge difference in my life – Ann’s life, too. And, the more I practice living trusting Him in all things, the better life gets all the way around. Really.

God really is life in its most wonderful and blessed form.

The shield and buckler (a smaller shield that was easier to use in close combat) mentioned in Psalm 91 were used to to shield and protect. Whether an enemy attacked from a distance or from close range, you were shielded and protected.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

The words of this verse are true for those who believe them.

For Ann and me, the “truth” of Romans 8:28 has shielded and protected our faith and trust in God and it has enabled us to rise above seemingly overwhelming and defeating circumstances so many times and given us God’s supernatural peace, rest and joy. He’s shown us that He is in control of our lives and knows what’s best for us – Namely Himself, and all that He is.

So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy (the devil) shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard (in our lives, Romans 8:28 has been one of the most powerful standards the Lord lifts up against the fearful fiery darts of the devil) against him.
Isaiah 59:19

His (God’s) “truth” (Romans 8:28, for one) shall be thy shield and buckler (Psalm 91:4b). Let His “truth” reign in your heart and enjoy life in His Ever-Uplifting Shielded and Protected Presence.

Yes, He’s working even “this” time for your good. Through His Word, God shows us His faithfulness by performing His Word in our lives. Believe it and see the salvation of the Lord.

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him “and show him My salvation.”
Psalm 91:15-16

Lord, I’ve come to know the weaknesses I see in me will be stripped away by the power of Your love.*

Shielded and protected in Jesus – In The Word.

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

*Lyric taken from The Power of Your Love by Matthew Ward

I had a really bad nightmare early this morning that shook me. It’s the same one I’ve had from time to time for about 20 years. The dream can make me feel frantic, worried and scared. I told Annie I had the dream again and we talked about the Lord and all He’s done and is doing for us in the Spirit. It really calmed me down and made me realize that the nightmare makes me want to get in my flesh about earthly things. I’m tempted to take matters into my own hands rather than testing the spirits behind fearful thoughts, and remembering to listen to the Holy Spirit and His leading. That’s when I knew I needed to send this out today accompanied by the following verse.

Then he (the angel of the Lord) answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.
Zechariah 4:6

Please always remember to test the spirit behind thoughts, nightmares, etc. The devil, the father of lies, loves to lure/move us into our flesh and away from the secret dwelling place of the Most High.

Keep your mind on Jesus, and listen to His Spirit of Truth.

So come on, let’s go and the Holy Spirit of the Lord will show us all of the wonderful things He has in store for us today and this week.

Happy Monday, everyone.

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

We got the notice to lock down. Interesting time, right?

I was sitting here just a few minutes ago mulling something over in my mind when the Lord told me to close my eyes and surrender my will and thoughts to Him. In an instant, the Holy Spirit shared the following with me. Boy, there’s is simply nothing and no one like our precious, loving Heavenly Father, friends.

So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.
Isaiah 59:19-20

When the enemy (fear) shall come in like a flood (just like the world is flooded with fear and anxiety right now), the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. It’s “when,” friends. Fear is rampant SO you know God is getting ready to raise up a standard against it. That’s really cool and exciting, friends. That’s our God. Hallelujah!

I love anticipating the Lord’s “standard.” Nothing like it. Such fun.

God bless,

Mark

To fear God means to believe Him, to simply take Him at His precious Word (Luke 1:45-50)

Regarding Romans 8:28, Annie and I already tried living the stressful/awful way…Not believing and applying Romans 8:28 to our everyday lives didn’t work so well… This time we’re living HIS Way… The fun way by applying Romans 8:28 to every day of our lives! Please join us, join Jesus Who is Romans 8:28.

Why is God so adamant about having Him first in our lives? Because that’s only place we’re safe. It’s true.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care (“anxiety” in other translations) upon him; for he careth for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7

That verse lays out the qualifications for residing in God’s dwelling place. Simply be humble and cast all your cares on Him. He’ll take care of anyone who does so.

“The secret to happiness is to be content no matter the situation. My life is not going to make me happy. My happiness is going to make my life.”
Taken from “Full Count” Netflix movie.

11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned (There’s no place like the “having learned” sweet spot), in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Philippians 4:10-13

My emotions used to seesaw all the time. I was either abased or abounding.

I used to be angry when I was in “abased” situations. And I used to be happier when I was abounding. Thing is, I was angry or happier depending on which side of the seesaw I was on.

When I started memorizing the verses God gave us while living in Oregon, a slow and wonderful change began to take place. God began to show me that I could be content, that my emotions could stay balanced, whether I was abased or abounding. Either way, He began showing me that He’s always with me and in control of my life so I can let His peace reign in my heart whether I’ve got little or a lot. He showed me that what was most important was simply His will for my life. The circumstances aren’t important. What was important was getting to know God and acknowledging Christ in my life all the time.

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
Psalm 91:1-2

God’s taking each one of us who will follow Him – and continue in His Word – to His peaceful dwelling place. There, we rest in knowing that He’s always with us and working all things (whether abased or abounding) together for our good.

Your heart and life are so full of His abundance when you know He’ll never leave you nor forsake you.

I’m so grateful Christ is with me, with us. Nothing compares with knowing He’s with you. Nothing…

Under the shadow of the Almighty. Mmmm. Such a supernaturally sweet, sweet spot.

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31

The sparrows are back at Lake San Marcos. The sparrows are such a vivid reminder of how God wants us to live.

We were watching the sparrows yesterday out our back windows. Like they always do, they were enjoying their acrobatic flying and looking like they were totally free in who God made them to be. They always appear so joyful and care free. Watching them brings us such joy and some how their fun antics remind us that the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

We were made to praise God. We were to believe that He’s working all things together for our good, to continue in His Word so we could be free all the time (John 8:31-32). God wants us to have His joy, to be able to trust in Him with all our heart, to let His peace reign in our hearts and lives – all the time.

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Romans 14:17

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 10:7

The kingdom of heaven is at hand. All of the kingdom is available to you. Fly little sparrow. God takes great delight in you as you spread your wings and praise Him in all things, as you rest in His love and care for you.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23

In the house of the Lord for ever. ☺

God bless,

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

Life can change in an instant. One thing that never changes is God’s love for you.

There is no need to overcome fear in Heaven. There’s no fear in Heaven. God sent us His Word to rescue us now, in this life here on earth.

Fear is destructive. God doesn’t want us to fear. Instead, He wants us to have faith in His Word. What a loving Heavenly Father we have, friends.

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.
Psalm 34:14

Once I began “doing” the Word, once I began to apply it to my life and believe God, I wondered how I could have waited so long to do it. When I began to experience God backing up my efforts to stand on His Word in the face of spiritual attacks, I got so excited.

I mean, think about it. The maker of everything, God Almighty, was backing up my believing His Word. He is interested in every minute of my day making sure that I know He’s working on my behalf as I trust Him. Wow. Amazing. Isn’t that crazy wonderful?

I know of no other way to get true, lasting, supernatural peace, the kind that passes our understanding, than through doing God’s Word. To depart from the evil the lies of our enemy bring to our lives, we must seek peace and pursue it by applying God’s Word in our lives.

As a Christian, there was a time when I didn’t know I could trust in God’s Word, but I could have. There was a time when I didn’t know I could let His peace reign in my heart, but I could have. There was a time when I didn’t know He was really working all things together for my good, but I could have chosen to believe that. And there was a time when I didn’t know the power and blessing of taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ or that I could really thank and praise Him in all things, but I could have made the choice to do so. This is what true repentance is all about. This is what revival is all about. We’re revived from the death sin is causing in our lives into the abundant life available in Christ.

The truth is, the times I haven’t chosen to follow the guidance found only in His Word were the times when I experienced fear, and panic – overwhelming fear and panic during many of those times. And, by not choosing to follow His Word, I realize now that I was actually choosing to believe and live in the lies of the enemy. It’s true.

I may have known about scriptures God knew could help me, but I wasn’t living them. And, I found out there’s all the difference in this life between knowing about them and believing and living them.

Choose to obey His Word and choose life. The life God has for each of us is so abundant and free.

“He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.”
Psalm 107:20

Revive and truly experience the joy of the Lord!

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
1 Corinthians 2:9

I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago (whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows) was caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I know that this man (whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, God knows) 4 was caught up into paradise and heard things too sacred to be put into words, things that a person is not permitted to speak.
2 Corinthians 12:2-4

For Christians, the world as they know it is coming to an end. But, the world they’ve only imagined and dreamed of is about to begin…

Happy Monday!

Go with Christ today and always, precious ones, and see all of the wonder He has planned for you as you dwell in the secret place of the Most High.

Hallelujah! Thank You, Jesus!

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

The Blessings Of Haman
By Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn

Purim is the Jewish holiday named by the enemy of the Jewish people. Purim means the casting of lots. In the Bible’s book of Esther, Haman decided to cast lots to establish the day for the destruction of the Jewish people. God redeemed them, and they made a holiday out of it. You think they would have changed the name, but they didn’t, they called it by exactly that, to remember the failed plan of God’s enemy.

Don’t be afraid of the plans of your enemy. We have a faith that can deal with problems and overcome them. Purim reminds us that whatever evil attempts to do, we have something greater than evil. When we celebrate Purim, we are bearing witness that God is greater than the problem. We celebrate that what the enemy planned for evil in our lives, God will turn it for good.

If you follow God, your problem will become a victory. What looks like defeat will become a celebration. You can smile at the days to come. For every trial, tribulation, and problem will end up as Haman’s holiday – a triumph of the good and the victory that God brought you.

Today, whatever problem you deal with, don’t just see the problem, but look beyond for the good purpose God will use it for.

And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed.
Esther 9:28

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

 

There was a time when “care” was honestly consuming me. Life was full of melodrama. I didn’t like it when someone would tell me God was in control because it didn’t seem to me like He was in control. When care builds in our lives, and we can’t resolve it, we’re in trouble.

Corona Virus, my family, our future, our health and retirement…It’s not that I don’t care about these any more, it’s just that God has replaced my care with trusting Him with these and I know that I could never thank Him enough for exchanging all my cares for being able to trust Him with it all.

I trade my cares for His joy. I get more of His joy in exchange for my trusting Him by giving Him my cares. What an incredible deal I’ve found that to be. What a wonderful Heavenly Father we have, friends.

God knows. Isn’t that wonderful? Nothing shakes Him and He wants us to rest in His love and care for us.

‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus
Christian Hymn By Louisa M. R. Stead

’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er;
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
And in simple faith to plunge me
’Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

Good question, right?

Ann was wrestling with some thoughts last night and shared what she learned about them with me this morning.

Can I enter God’s rest by continuing in my own thoughts about this or that? Am I really surrendering these thoughts to Him, to His plan for me if I continue to think about this or that and how I want them to work out? Is mulling things over and over keeping me from His rest?

Am I responding to God – to His Word, to the Holy Spirit – with disobedience or obedience? If you’re rebellious, you’ll probably be angry about the Word and respond with a legalistic thought towards it. If you’re not rebellious, the Word will be easy to entreat and you’ll desire the benefit from doing the Word.

“Lord, help me to take thoughts captive so I can stop being tormented with this (these) painful, defeating, oppressive thought.”

God, I don’t want to be loose about some things in my life, in my thought life. I want to be finally free in those areas of my life and thoughts so I can experience Your times of refreshment in those things.

Not taking thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ is being disobedient.

A rebellious heart will respond to the command to take every thought captive in a defensive way thinking it’s legalism. An obedient heart will respond with, “Oh, yeah, You’re right Lord. Thank You for reminding me that I can and must take every thought captive.”

Ann was taking some fiery dart thoughts…She could even be imagining nice ideas. She said, “God, please help me with these thoughts” when God told her, “To obey is better than sacrifice” meaning she could still be having some nice thoughts (imagining how things could be) but that she was still not taking those thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ.

Obedience to God, to His Word, will lead us into freedom and deliverance. Disobedience is sin and sin is always bondage. The church is so deceived today throwing “legalism” around so it can stay in sin and suffer in its bondage.

In everything give thanks and all things work together are right. Pray without ceasing is right, too. It reminds me of the Bible story in Luke 18:1-8 where the woman who kept going to the judge was right. Lord, show me how to walk all of these out.

22 And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.
1 Samuel 15:22-24

When I obey God’s Word, when He points something out to me that corrects what I’m doing in order to set me more free, I feel a release in my spirit and mind. Truly, it is better to be obedient to His Word.

Thank You, Lord, for setting me more and more free.

God bless,

Ann

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
Hebrews 10:23

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6

As Ann and I learned to trust God with more and more of every area of our lives, we noticed that it got easier to trust Him. It also took us less time to turn things over to Him so we could rest in trusting Him with them. As a result, we leaned less and less on our own, limited understanding of situations and circumstances that God wanted us to trust Him with.

Ann and I were shopping Saturday and I heard the words “Trust Is Power” over the store speakers. Immediately the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart. This is exactly what God has been teaching Ann and me over the last several decades. He wanted us to learn how to trust in Him with our whole heart. I thought of how He’s accomplished this incredible feat in two lives that were so filled with fear by circumstances. Wow, it’s amazing to be able to trust in God and how He backs up our trusting in Him. What power.

To know, really know, that we can count on Him to work all things together for our good is a life changer for us. We both realize that before we could trust God, we had no power over our circumstances and how they were defeating us. Now, we do have His wonderful, peaceful, joyful power as we rest in His almighty power to work things out on our behalf.

Thank You, Jesus. You’re simply incredible and wonderful.

*******
for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Nehemiah 8:10c

The Lord’s “joy” is not of man. It’s not man-made. And it’s not something we have to psyche up for. It’s real, and we can tell it’s not from us. It comes from the Lord. Ann and I kept applying scripture to our lives and as we persevered, we began to experience the joy of the Lord.

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

God’s joy is a knowing that He’s with you, is keeping you, is in control, and that He really is working all things – all things – together for the good of those who love Him. You’re aware of the fact that He really does have your best interests in mind. You have an anticipation that He’s working behind the scenes on your behalf and you’re excited to see what He’s up to.

I was doing some things around the house when the Holy Spirit suddenly spoke to me about the things that are coming on this world like the corona virus. He said, “The joy I want you to have now and always is the same joy I told you you could have had the whole time you lived in Oregon. Never let any situation or circumstance – no matter what it’s called – steal My joy that lifts you ABOVE this world. I always have My joy for you. Always. Remember My Name is ABOVE every other name.”

I shared this with Ann and we both just smiled big and lingered in His protection, love and joy.

Wow, what a Savior we have, friends. What miraculous overcoming power and joy as we await Heaven and being there with Jesus, forever.

Ann and I are still finding new ways to trust God and to experience His joy. We know He wants to take us to the place where we can always trust Him and have His wonderful surpassing joy in all circumstances.

Not that I speak in respect to want, for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
Philippians 4:11

Happy Monday, everyone!

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

But more than that, I count everything as loss compared to the priceless privilege and supreme advantage of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord [and of growing more deeply and thoroughly acquainted with Him—a joy unequaled]. For His sake I have lost everything, and I consider it all garbage, so that I may gain Christ,
Philippians 3:8 Amplified Bible

God’s teaching us that we lose nothing in this life if we have Him, if we gain Christ. To gain Christ. Wow. We count everything loss to know Jesus. And, you know what, gaining Jesus is everything. It’s true.

For a lot of reasons, my wife and I like to exercise. Exercising helps us with the physical demands of life. Physical exercise is helpful, but it’s not enough.

For many reasons, Annie and I like to exercise and build up our faith in Jesus by reading the Bible, listening to good Christian teaching, singing to the Lord, talking about Jesus and all the wonderful truths He’s teaching us, by listening to the Holy Spirit as He teaches us how to truly love each other better by not allowing self-pity, worry, unbelief, etc, have any place in our lives as we learn that we really can trust Jesus in all things – even the past and future. Jesus is teaching us to exercise our faith in the face of fear and it’s working. We’re getting stronger in Him. As we learn more about Jesus, He’s calming us down and teaching us to trust in Him with all our heart. There’s nothing like it. As we exercise our faith, we can feel Jesus in us encouraging us and giving us His courage and the assurance that He really does have and that He really will “keep” us – always.

While there are many benefits to physical exercise, there are far more benefits contained in exercising and building up our faith in God. Many more. In fact, God calls building our faith and being His disciples by doing the Word the difference between life and death.

Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”
1 Timothy 4:8

To stand on His Word. To know The Prince of Peace. To really have His peace reigning in our life. Mmmm. Amazing. Just amazing.

“Annie, let’s pick up the Bible and do some more reps.”

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

5 For many shall come in my (Jesus) name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences (epidemic disease), and earthquakes, in divers places.

8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.
Matthew 24:5-9

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6

Folks, there are a lot of things in life that can steal our peace if we let them. God commands us to not let our hearts be troubled. The only way to do that is to trust in the Lord with all our heart. We can trust Him in all things.

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts,
Colossians 3:15

Here’s what God’s trying to teach me all my life. Don’t get mad when things don’t go my way. Instead, let God lead. Just “let” Him lead. Allow yourself, Mark, to be led by My Spirit.

Simple, but profoundly life-changing. At least it has been for me.

Jesus wants to teach us how to sleep through the storms in life just like when He was sleeping in the boat with the disciples in the storm. He can teach us to do it if we’ll remember that we can let His peace rule in our hearts at all times.

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.
Romans 8:14

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
Isaiah 26:3

Trust God…

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

10 The thief (the devil) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I (Jesus) am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
John 10:10

17 No weapon formed against you shall prosper,
Isaiah 54:17a

Recently, pertaining to my CCPTSD, I had this revelation in my life about believing “the truth” and believing “lies.” It dawned on me that believing lies about myself, about my self worth – and so much more – was making me angry, bitter, feel shamed, jealous, greedy, strive, frustrated, confused, double-minded, gave me nervous and excited-induced eating habits, and a whole host of other bad, destructive thoughts, thought patterns and strongholds. Through a series of difficult circumstances and life challenges, I had let lying enemy weapons prosper against me.

When we believe God’s truth (the truth), we get and understand more of His truth and begin to have our lives impacted by more and more of His truth and the love God has placed in His truths. This choice sets us free in ways we didn’t know even existed.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-25

When we believe Satan’s lies and absorb the hate and anger contained in those lies, we take on more and more lies and they impact our lives in ways we couldn’t conceive of. The choice to believe the devil’s lies will bind us up is ways we didn’t know existed. We will become more and more hardhearted and resistant to God’s truth.

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19-21

This is why it is so important to stay open to God’s truth at all costs, and to be always willing to repent and to apply the Word to our lives whenever the Holy Spirit points to some new area of liberty He commands us to walk out and live in. God’s truths are full of His love that will set us free and keep us, and protect us from the fiery darts of Satan.

Today I (God) have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! –
Deuteronomy 30:19

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:2

I used to be bothered all the time by the devil’s lies. By applying God’s Word to my life, I began to be free from the lies that had oppressed and tormented me for way too long.

God commands us to choose to be free by believing His Word. Nothing else can make us free indeed.

Bothered? Believe God!

God bless,

Mark

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.

So, after I had received Dr. Robert Jeffress’ email (the one I sent out in yesterday’s CJED email) last week, Kimberly sent us the below emails. Kimberly’s timing in sending us emails is amazing. Her emails (and others of you) are further confirmation to us regarding God’s plan for Ann and me.

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I am so grateful for all of your wonderful reminders! Thank you SO MUCH for living your lives for the glory of our KING!
Last Friday your email inspired! This is the mindset we truly desire to live in, every moment of every day! The great cloud of witnesses are thinking of us and cheering for us, the bride. Your email reminded me of the song by Passion with Kristian Stanfill (I think Chris Tomlin did a version of the song too).
Even So:
“Like a bride waiting for her Groom,
we’ll be a church ready for YOU
Every heart longing for her King, we sing
Even so come, LORD JESUS come
Even so come, LORD JESUS come”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBHcvJhc6Pk

I have a fun story for you:
Along with many of our neighbors, we have always kept bird feeders around our home, welcoming little songbirds to perch and feast, and sing their praise songs. All of our homes are nestled in a green belt with foliage towering over every roof – a beautiful welcome mat for every genre of birdsong passing through. This has been a joyful noise in our neighborhood for many years! Such a delight! Especially in the Spring! The melodious singsong mimics sounds from the tropics!
Well, a couple of years ago, we had a group of hawks move into our neighborhood. At first we noticed a few Cooper Hawks, but this year it’s a larger species – the Red-tail Hawk. We often see two at a time sitting on the branches of our mature trees watching our bird feeders! They have been picking off our little song birds, and a great hush has descended upon our neighborhood. The joyful songs went into hiding as the intimidating screech took dominance in our community. (I can picture Ann shaking her head at this point saying, “This is NOT a fun story!”… But hang in there, Ann – there’s an amazing spiritual parallel!)
About 3 weeks ago, I saw 2 hawks on my property and I walked out and spoke to them, declaring softly, but firmly, “You have three choices here! You can become vegetarians,.. You can pick up your home and move out of this territory,.. Or you can drop dead! Let it be done.” And I felt such great confidence that it was done! Thankfully, we didn’t see much of those predators afterwards! Victory!
So the other day, imagine my outrage when I looked out my dining room window and witnessed a hawk 25 feet up in my neighbor’s tree. It’s head was going down and coming back up over and over. As the head came up, little pieces of grass and feathers floated down. I realized a precious nest was being torn apart, and I was furious! I’m a farm girl. In that moment, I wanted to open my window and to grant myself some target practice time! But my conscience convicted me…. “obey the laws of the land – shooting hawks is illegal.” So I brought my complaint before the ONE who cares the most for HIS lovely creation.
“GOD! The hawks are still here! I want the song birds to move back in!”
In that moment, one small bird flew up and landed on the branch above the hawk! It swooped down and dove at the intruder! Then a blue jay and a mocking bird joined the small warrior! Our LORD used this scene to remind me that HE is in control of the predator… the predator is not the one dominating over this scenario – GOD IS! And HE is using the dark predator… but only as long as it takes to glorify HIMSELF in the greatest way possible! HE knew the song birds would become stronger and more bold and courageous!!!
GO SONG BIRDS!
That’s my new chant! HE is raising up stronger song birds to glorify HIS HOLY NAME.
GO SONG BIRDS!
I felt that peace… you know the peace I’m talking about. That peace that passes our understanding…. it washed over me in a relaxing calm. I smiled and looked back out the window at the hawk. “Your days are numbered.” I declared with quiet, settled assurance! And I apply that to all that concerns me today.
The enemy sent his hoards to trap my precious daughter in darkness this year. GOD is using my foe to bring about a Glory greater than we can imagine! The enemy’s days are numbered! And I found my song – I have my voice back! We are no longer in hiding!
GO SONG BIRDS!
Every encouraging email you send out is a precious song!
GO SONG BIRDS!
Even when we can’t feel it, HE’S working –
Even when we can’t see it, HE’S working –
GO SONG BIRDS!
And every time we praise HIM in the midst of our circumstances,
Every time we move our focus from the power of the storm to the Power of the ONE who controls the storm,
Every time we consider it all joy,
Every time we rejoice –
It’s music to HIS ears!
GO SONG BIRDS!

With Love,
With Joy,
With Hope,
With great Peace,
kimberly

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And another one of Kimberly’s emails sent the day following her above email:

Oh! What a beautiful song!
GO SONG BIRDS!
Thank you for sharing…
And don’t give up, my friends. Total restoration and redemption belongs to you.
As I’ve prayed for you, GOD has assured me HE is healing you completely – in every way!

I am completely undone by the truth that our LORD only trusts HIS most beloved with pain too great for the crowds. HE is so patient.
We are for HIM as much as HE is for us… the invitation is intimate relationship – to truly bear HIS image – but not just in the suffering.
Sometimes I get stuck in the suffering… we bear HIS image in the victory and Resurrection too!
I see HIM crying with us when the attacks are the strongest, and HE’s patiently trusting us to rise up and be HIS bride. We do this together. And HE is not concerned with how long it might take…. we are not time beings. We just surrender to HIS work and trust.
Joining HIM in the dance that fulfills HIS heart! What an honor! What a Joy! Oh, how HE loves us!
And the intimacy HE is drawing us into! Oh! How fulfilling! Healing! Truly satisfying!

It has been a true pleasure to be on this unexpected path. Life definitely has not turned out the way I was expecting. Thank YOU, JESUS! In every twist and turn, the surrender to the new direction has brought greater expectation and hope! Releasing the idea of homeschooling all my children, watching marriage slip through my fingers, relinquishing my ideas of being a worship leader… accepting with joy, the new ways – the new paths – has brought more peace than I thought possible. Like watching the hawk and accepting that GOD is the ONE directing EVERY step, every peck, every screech. We can patiently observe calamity with great assurance in our Loving ABBA who controls the storms. The wind still knows HIS name! HE has done exceedingly abundantly more than I could have ever even imagined. And all I want to do is praise HIM, sing for HIM, worship HIM, and spend the rest of my days in Love with HIM.

…………. I know you know this, Mark ….. Ann knows too …… May I remind you? Because I love you both so very much …..
You were never meant to carry the burden of providing for her. You both have a much better Provider! Not being able to provide was a turn in your path that GOD intends to use for a greater glory – a greater provision – a greater joy than you can imagine.

Keep praising. Keep worshiping. Keep loving.
GO SONG BIRDS!

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God bless,

Mark – ChoosingJesusEveryDay.com

Note: While we may not agree with everything a particular church or Christian group teaches or believes, there are times when we can be blessed by something outside the realm of our current understanding of God.