Count Your Blessings

Hello everyone!

Today is Thanksgiving. I hope you all enjoy some good food and time with your families.

There's something I've been doing the past few years, and I want to share it with you. I keep a journal, and in this journal, I take time on Thanksgiving morning to write the things I am thankful for. It's a challenge, because each year, the number changes according to my age. So, instead of just doing 10-15 things each year, which is what we were encouraged to do on Sunday at church, I take it a step further.

Without looking at my list from last year, I write down what I'm thankful for. This year, my list will have 30 items.

So, today, I challenge you to do the same. Whatever your age, write down that number of things you are thankful for, without repeating them. It takes a little while sometimes to think of the last few, but it's worth it. It reminds me how much I have to be grateful for, how much God has blessed me. And then, when life gets tough, I can look back on the list and remind myself everything that is good in my life instead of focusing on the bad.

I hope you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving!
God bless you.

Worship Wednesday: God's Goodness is Eternal

This Sunday, we sang this song in church, and it really touched me. Tears and everything. It's a wonderful reminder of how faithful and good God is, so I've added it to my worship list. It's very powerful, and I wanted to share it with all of you.

Eternity Series

Hello everyone!

For this series of posts, I want to take a look at eternity, and how we will live once we have finished our mortal lives. This will be in three parts: Heaven, New Earth, and Hell.

Now, I'm not going to speculate or offer up guesses.

Rather, I'm going to look at what the Bible says about each of these places, and I will also link to other well-researched articles and posts about them.

Lately, I've just really wanted to learn more about Heaven and the New earth, specifically, and I thought I might as well include the other option for eternity while I'm at it.

So, stay tuned for this series! It's going to take a while for me to figure out how I want to set it up and to do research and to actually write up the post, so I can't guarantee a date. Just know that I am working on it, and that if you have any suggestions for those or other posts, or if you have any questions you'd like me to try to answer with my Bible research, let me know.

Worship Wednesday: We Pour Out Praise for God's Glory

Hello everyone!

For today's Worship Wednesday, I'm sharing a song we sang in church on Sunday. It has never moved me quite so much before, so I know this is the appropriate time to share it.

And actually, they mixed this song with another one, and it flowed very nicely together. They would sing this one and then a little of the chorus of the other one, which I'm pretty sure was this one:

I hope you enjoy both of these songs and that they encourage you to worship this week. God bless you!

My Job at the Library

Hello everyone! It's been a while. I meant to post for Worship Wednesday, but it slipped by and between work and school, I completely forgot. Hopefully I'll get one up next week.

So, while I'm working on other posts, working on ideas, and gathering Bible verses, I decided today I want to post a bit about my job. Just for fun.

For anyone who doesn't know, I work in a library. I am not a librarian yet, but I am going to school to become one.

In my job, I get to do a variety of things, all of which involve customer service. Today I want to share some things that happened today that are the epitome of why I love my job.

Things I did yesterday:

1. Helped a customer look for homes to rent
2. Helped a customer find the next book in a series they loved
3. Assisted a customer with renewing their library card
4. Assisted a customer with checking out movies
5. Gave a customer the newspaper to read in the library
6. Worked on a reader's advisory list for Christian films (we get a lot of customers who ask for them)

That's only 6 of the things I got to do at my job yesterday. Also, a customer brought in pumpkin/cream cheese treats. Delicious!

The weather has cooled off and it's officially the start of my favorite season. Also, I love my job.

So, I guess this post is a lot different from what I usually write, but I wanted to share today. All of these things made me really happy and very grateful. I was just in a great mood yesterday and today and really wanted to share some of the great things I got to do to help my customers.

What things make you smile at your job? Is your favorite thing helping customers or something else? Let me know in the comments!

Worship Wednesday: Raise Your Hallelujah!

Hello everyone!

For today's Worship Wednesday, I want to share a song that has been on my radio all week long. It played Saturday, and Sunday, and then we sang it at church. And then it was on the radio Monday, and again on Tuesday. It also played on the radio this morning when I was driving to work, and this afternoon when I was driving home.

I think the message is pretty loud. This is my worship jam this week, and I hope it speaks to you too. I've been singing it randomly all around the house - when I'm making dinner, when I'm cleaning up, when I'm getting ready to watch a movie, when I'm picking out a new book to read, even in the shower. And when I'm at work and can't raise my voice as loud (I do work in a library, after all), the song plays in my heart, and is louder than I can even make my voice go.

In the middle of our troubles, when everything is dark and bleak, all we have to do is sing out praises to God, just raise that Hallelujah, and the darkness flees. It may not mean an immediate answer, or an escape from the troubles, but it will lift our spirits, and bring God's presence down to surround us.

So, sing loud. And sing louder. Let His praises echo to the heavens. And drown out the troubles and the unbelief.

And raise a hallelujah.

Flawless

Hello everyone!

So, in my women's Bible study group, we have been learning about how God sees us through the eyes of mercy and grace, and what the word flawless really means as applied to our lives.

We've taken a break for the summer, and our "homework," so to speak, is to catch ourselves picking ourselves apart and focusing on our flaws and take those thoughts captive with God's Word and remind ourselves that we are flawless instead.

It's quite the challenge, I'll admit. I'm studying Japanese, and even kanji seems easier at this point. But I know that doing it every day will make it a habit and that will improve my thinking, and overall, my character.

So today, I want to challenge all of you. God doesn't see your past or your mistakes. When you accepted Him into your life and asked forgiveness, He gave it. Freely and without reservation. And now He sees you through the eyes of mercy. To Him, you are flawless.

He doesn't see that awful thing you did before you met Him. He doesn't see that awful thing you're beating yourself up about when you slipped up after meeting Him. He doesn't see your scars. Your weight. Your diet. Your bank account. Your flaws and imperfections. He sees you as flawless through His Son, Jesus.

So my challenge for you is that every time a flawed thought crosses your mind, take it captive.

I'm too fat.
I'm too skinny.
I have so many pimples.
I'm so ugly.
I'm stupid.
No one loves me.
No one will ever love me.
I messed up so bad no one could ever forgive me.

And these are just part of what we tell ourselves on a daily basis! Me too. Don't leave me out. I've said at least three of these just this morning. It's a struggle. It's difficult. That's why it's a challenge. But challenges can be overcome.

So, my challenge to you is this:

When these thoughts happen, remind yourself that you belong to God, and He doesn't see that tiny imperfection at all. He sees you as beautiful. He sees you as flawless. And if you have trouble reminding yourself, just check out this song, and play it on repeat as long as it takes.

Freedom

So, today is Independence Day for myself and my fellow Americans. It's a time when we reflect with gratitude on the many freedoms that we enjoy in this country that people in many other countries don't have. We reflect on the sacrifices that the people who came before us made, and are still making so we could enjoy those freedoms.

We also barbecue. A lot. And shoot off fireworks. A lot. It's a total celebration.

Sunday was Freedom Sunday, and my pastor preached on the freedoms we have in Christ. He reminded us that those freedoms did not come without cost - the cost of Jesus' blood, and the sacrifices of our obedience.

Freedom isn't really free. Someone paid the price for it. Just as Jesus paid the price for our sins.

So often we want the freedoms without the sacrifice. We want to ride on the hard work of others. And in some cases, we're allowed. We don't have to pay for our sins. We have brave men and women who have fought and continue to fight for freedom.

But just because our freedom was given freely, that doesn't mean we don't have to fight for it. Every day. Satan does not like our freedom. He wants us to be bound. Slaves. To sin. To our flesh. And so we still have to fight for our freedom. Every day. But when we seek God, He will fight for us.

Sometimes, though we want the freedom without any sacrifice. Just like sometimes we want to be part of God's kingdom without putting in the work it takes. His salvation is free. And we can have salvation without doing anything beyond believing in Jesus and asking sincere forgiveness for our sins.

Or, we could go all in. We could believe and obey and sacrifice. And fight.

So, I challenge you to do 3 things that I've already done this week.

1) Reflect on the freedoms that you have in God, and thank Him for each one.

2) Reflect on Jesus' sacrifice so that we could all enjoy those freedoms

3) Ask God to help you identify areas where you are doing well and areas where you fall short; then ask Him to show you how you can improve.

Happy Independence Day to my fellow Americans!

And to my fellow Christians, remember: every day is independence day for us.

God bless y'all.

Thoughtful Thursday: Wildlife Tourism

Any of you who know me, or have read my blog for a while, may know that I am passionate about animals. I love animals, and I wish I could take care of them all. I wish I could do more. But I'm human. And it really isn't my calling. I've been called in a different direction, and that's okay. I am so happy to be writing this blog, and it has given me a chance to share God and His Word with all of you. Which I love doing. The new format also allows for a chance for me to share these other things with you in the form of what I call "Thoughful Thursday," where I muse about a variety of things that interest me, and things I am passionate about.

Today I have to talk about a news story I read last week. It's not pretty, and it may be too strong for you. If you read the article title and think it might be, feel free to skim it. I'm going to do a brief summary, but even I won't go into everything, so this post will be safe-ish.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/2019/06/wildlife-tourism-update-on-elephant-gluay-hom/

So, this news story is about wildlife captivity (particularly elephants) and the way they are treated for "entertainment," or "tourism." These animals live in horrible conditions, and it's just disgusting. They don't live natural lives. They are chained. Beaten. They live on concrete. They don't get enough food. They are forced into interaction with people whether they feel up to it or not.

And as a side note: that is how people and animals get hurt.

Why? Why do people do this?

Simple answer: Greed. They use these animals for a profit.

Now, I know some of you are saying "But what about zoos? What about ranches that use horses?"

Well, I say it's all about the purpose and the quality of the lives these animals have.

Most zoos have animals in captivity who have never been wild, and they use them to educate the public, and to aid conservation efforts. It is, perhaps, not the ideal way to see these animals, but with so many being hunted to extinction, it's hard to see many of them in the wild. So you have to consider the quality of the care they receive and whether they are stressed or not. And you can tell. Even if you've never been around that species of animal before, if you really look, and don't go in with a preconceived idea, you can tell.

Ranches have used horses for work for ages. Longer than you or I have been alive, I guarantee it. And it's about the quality of their lives. Are they healthy? Safe? Do they work hard but also get time to rest and play? And to a horse, running, jumping, herding, and rodeoing can be play too. They're very smart, and form close bonds with people, just like dogs do.

Also, are they being handled properly? With the right kind of training? The right kind of reinforcement?

So, my point is that it's important to judge the quality of the places we're visiting. To research before giving them our money. Are they worthy of our time and money?

So many places do not consider the animals at all, especially abroad, where regulations are very different from America. Their only interest is in how much money they can make while spending as little as possible on the animals in their care.

Please, please, please, beware of these places. Spend your money wisely. Do not help promote or advance these places.

But, and this is a doozy: do not hate those who do it. I know that's often hard. Animals and children are big triggers for all of us. But it's important to remember that we are supposed to love and pray for our enemies, as well as our friends.

So, today I ask you to pray. Please pray for these people, and others like them. And keep in mind when you're traveling, that not all wildlife attractions are the same.

Okay! That's enough of that heavy stuff. God has been dealing with me about getting back to my blog, so I'm going to be doing my best to write up some other posts, hopefully very encouraging, and not as heavy as this one.

Love y'all! Until next time.

Worship Wednesday: God Is Always With Us

God is with us through it all. No matter what we're going through, whether it's something amazing or terrible, God is there. When we rejoice he rejoices with us, and when we weep, He weeps with us. When we feel alone, He is still with us. And when we are surrounded by enemies (sorrow, despair, depression, exhaustion, stress), He is with us, ready to fight for us. All we have to do is ask.

God doesn't promise a life free from troubles. He promises to be with us through them. He is faithful to stand by us, to help us, and to fight for us.

For today's Worship Wednesday, I was originally going to share Another in the Fire, by Hillsong, because I've been singing it since Sunday, but I realized that was the last post I shared, so I'm choosing a different song today.

In case that song doesn't speak to your soul today, I do encourage you to listen to Another in the Fire as well. Play them both on repeat.

And remember, the waves and wind know His name. When the storms come and the fire surrounds you, you are not alone. The One who created all things is with you, always, forever, and faithfully. Let go and let it be well with your soul today, for your God is God Almighty.

Worship Wednesday: Another in the Fire

Good morning, everyone!

Today is another Worship Wednesday. The worship team sang this song at church on Sunday, and I knew I had to share it with all of you. It's such a good song, and it touched my heart. It was exactly what I needed to hear.

Another in the Fire is a song about praising God in the storm, but it's more about how God is standing with us in the middle of our troubles, helping us and protecting us. Unlike similar songs, this one doesn't conclude when the storm is over; rather, it's just about being in the middle of our problems.

Which is where I am right now. God isn't only with us when the storm is over. We don't just praise Him when it's over. So, no matter your storm, I pray this song uplifts you and returns the praise to your heart, and that you remember that God is always with you in the fire.

And if you're interested, here is the interview where they talk about writing the song:

Worship Wednesday: The God of All My Days

Hello everyone! It's been a little while, hasn't it? I've been really busy with graduate classes (it's already my second week!) but I wanted to take a moment to share the song that's been in my head this week, because I just have the feeling it will be a help to someone.

So, for this Worship Wednesday, I share with you Casting Crowns: God of All My Days.

Happy New Year!

Happy new year, everyone!

It's going to be really weird not blogging every day, so I wanted to take this chance to wish you all a blessed new year, and to give you an update on why I can't blog every day this year.

I'm starting school again. I'm going for my Master's degree this time. In Library Science. I'm super excited!

I'll still be reading my Bible every day, since it has become such an essential part of not only my mornings but also my life. And this year, I'm starting with the psalms. I usually try to read the psalms at least once a year, since Psalms, along with Proverbs, are my two favorite books of the Bible.

This year I'm doing it a little differently though. I'm going to read one psalm a week so that I can begin to memorize them, and really let the meaning sink in. I'm not sure how effective that will be, and I may try to keep you updated, but I also may not have time to post much with the demands of classes.

So, I just wanted to give you a quick update for the new year.

If there is anything you would like to see me blog about, or anything you would like me to research and discuss, please leave a comment below. I will make a note so that I can come back to the topic when I have time.

Happy New Year! Stay safe, everyone!