Fear Not Little Flock - Steve Martin

 

Fear Not Little Flock

 

“Do not be afraid, little flock, because your Father has chosen to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32, NASB

 

Back in the day, oh about 17 years ago to be exact, I was the USA Director of Vision For Israel, the Israeli believers' ministry founded by Barry and Batya Segal near Jerusalem. We had moved the American office from Savannah, Georgia to Charlotte, North Carolina. After hiring the four others who joined me on staff, we commenced building the office and warehouse setup for VFI and the Joseph Storehouse, as the humanitarian effort was also known around the world.

There were times when I liked to remind the staff, particularly during the trying times, that the Lord was in charge, He was on the throne, and all would be well. I liked to quote this verse in King James, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32

As we all know this temporary world is not getting any better, if viewed with the natural eyes. It is just getting hard to live as we all are feeling in – spiritually, economically, socially.

In the spiritual realm, we experience the ongoing battle of standing on the Word of God, which is constantly under attack, if not even thrown out altogether in many regions. Dismissed as irrelevant, outdated, or for the “older generation” only, it is maligned along with our Lord Who is the very One Who Created the very ones who deny Him. Teaching our children, the basics of life, forever written in His Word, is a daily fight to accomplish, as all that is around them is pulling them in the other direction.

Economically the increasing cost of goods with inflation, shortages, lack of service, and distribution problems with the lack of full labor is putting pressure on all of us to be wise in our spending and provision for daily needs. It can be a fearful time.

And then the social atmosphere that abounds with fear, pitting this one against that one, this group against that group, this way against that way. If you say one “wrong” thing to another, relationships become stressed and then break.

No wonder the suicide rate among the generations has rapidly risen, with people succumbing to uncertainties and hopelessness.

Yes, I would remind the staff, and myself, that our Lord has what we need to combat the fear, by continually agreeing with Him, that we need not fear, for He is with us, guiding us, and providing for us.

Recently we had to have our Bradford pear trees cut down, being over 30 years old and just waiting for the next windstorm to bring the frail limbs crashing down on our house or cars below. What I miss most about the two not being in our front yard anymore, as I still enjoy the porch swing and rocking chairs, are the lack of birds that would rest in their branches, and the frolicking squirrels that would change each other around 20 feet above the ground. They never lacked the care of our Father, and they enjoyed His provision for life. He had promised to take care for them, and He fulfilled that.

So too must we continue in trust and faith for His provision, guidance, and protection.

²⁵ “For this reason I say to you, ^[q]do not be worried about your ^[r]life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gather crops into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more important than they? ²⁷ And which of you by worrying can add a single ^[s]day to his ^[t]life’s span? ²⁸ And why are you worried about clothing? Notice how the lilies of the field grow; they do not labor nor do they spin thread for cloth, ²⁹ yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. ³⁰ But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! ³¹ Do not worry then, saying, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear for clothing?’ ³² For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. ³³ But ^[u]seek first ^[v]His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be ^[w]provided to you.

³⁴ “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will ^[x]worry about itself. ^[y]Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6: 25-34, NASB

Next time you are pressured or in stress about today, and tomorrow, repeat the word, “Fear not little flock.” His assurance will bring peace to your spirit and soul.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin, Love For His People founder

Fear. Stress. Anger. Hope in One only.

6 Reasons Why You May Be Waking Up Tired - CHRIS PRITCHARD/NEWSMAX HEALTH CHARISMA MAGAZINE

There are many reasons why you may be waking up tired. (iStock photo )

6 Reasons Why You May Be Waking Up Tired

12/15/2015 CHRIS PRITCHARD/NEWSMAX HEALTH  charisma magazine

Do you find yourself waking up tired because you're not sleeping well? You're not alone. Almost 70 million others—slightly more women than men—are sleepless in America for a variety of reasons.

But the good news is that for most sufferers it's a problem that can be easily solved without resorting to expensive sleeping pills or other costly treatments. A half-dozen simple lifestyle changes can improve your sleep quality, experts say.

The first thing to do: Don't allow yourself to be overly concerned about sleeplessness, which can exacerbate the problem, says one of the world's leading sleep experts.  

"Tossing and turning while being anxious makes things worse," notes Christopher Magee, an internationally known sleep specialist and psychologist.  "It's a good idea to take a break from trying to sleep. Get up and read or to have a drink of water." 

Magee's own research—which has been published in major scientific publications including the Journal of Sleep Research, Preventive Medicine, and Sleep Medicine—has found that most people experience sleep problems from time to time. 

"Occasional poor sleep is quite normal and not a cause for concern," notes Magee, deputy director of the Center for Health Initiatives at Australia's Wollongong University.

But if sleep problems persist for more than a few weeks and adversely affect daily functioning, he says "it's a good idea to seek advice from a health professional."

It's not just the quantity of sleep that matters, but the quality, he adds. 

Low-grade sleep, from which you wake tired and exhausted, isn't good for you. Your body and mind need deep sleep for it to be restorative. Poor sleep has been linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, stroke, and diabetes.

"We should wake feeling rested—not necessarily energetic and full of vigor immediately after waking, but feeling we've had a good sleep," Magee explains.

"Even if people think they've had 'enough' sleep, quality may be poor. If sleep is fragmented, with waking through the night, it reduces time spent in deep, restful sleep. This can contribute to daytime lethargy and fatigue."

What's more, "one size fits all" sleep recommendations don't apply to everyone. Experts divide sleeping patterns into two types: "short" and "long." A tiny minority of people function well on "short" sleeps, defined by doctors as less than six hours nightly, while the vast majority need "long" periods of slumber—seven to nine hours (with eight generally cited as typical). 

Magee has identified the following six most common causes of sleeplessness and simple no-cost methods to beat it, based on his own research and the findings of many sleep studies:

● Stress:  "It's a major cause of problems falling asleep and getting good-quality sleep," Magee notes. "Maintaining healthy lifestyles with stress reduction techniques—even just winding down after work—can be beneficial."

● Alcohol: "Though alcohol initially has sleep-inducing effects, research shows it adversely impacts sleep quality, particularly in the latter half of sleep," he explains. "Avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol within a few hours of bedtime is important in promoting good sleep."

● Caffeine: People who drink large amounts of the stimulant caffeine in coffee, energy drinks, or soda are more likely to have problems getting to sleep. "Avoiding caffeine after the early afternoon helps promote good sleep," Magee says.

● Exercise: It's generally good for sleep and overall health but "vigorous bouts just prior to bed increase physiological arousal, making it harder to fall asleep." Magee notes.

● TV and mobile devices: "Cellular devices and electronic media in the bedroom are linked by researchers to poorer sleep. Furthermore, watching excessive TV or prolonged computer use prior to bed can make it harder to fall asleep," he says.

● Poor sleep habits: Studies confirm individuals with irregular bedtimes and wake-up times are likely to have poorer sleep. "Maintaining regular sleep and wake-up times ... benefits physiological regulation of sleep," Magee points out.

He adds that some sleep problems can be caused by more serious health disorders that may require the attention of a medical professional, including chronic insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome. 

"There are often measures [available] to minimize the adverse influence of these disorders," Magee notes.

But for most people, occasional insomnia is nothing to lose sleep over, and can be resolved with simple lifestyle adjustments. 

For the original article, visit newsmaxhealth.com.

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Ways to Avoid Stress During the Holidays - SHERYL GIESBRECHT CHARISMA MAGAZINE

Here's how you can have a peaceful holiday season. (Charisma archives)

5 Ways to Avoid Stress During the Holidays

12/7/2015 SHERYL GIESBRECHT  charisma magazine

"Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright."

Each night we heard my son tattling on his sister, "Mom, Sarah is taking too much time in the bathroom." Silent? Hardly. Calm? Nope.

"Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. ..."

For the third time that week, we were late to soccer practice. And my husband, Paul, was the coach. That routine was far from restful.

"O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie. ..."

(Sigh.) So much to do, so little time—removed from tranquil.

Are these holiday lyrics descriptions of your family's Christmas season? During the Christmas rush, our homes are far from silent, calm, restful, still, or peaceful. The holiday momentum builds the day after Thanksgiving; the house is noisy, busy, hustling, bustling, and brimming over with activity and stress to the point of near exhaustion. We have so much to do before Christmas day arrives. There are lists to make, baking to prepare, cards to send, shopping to do, gifts to wrap, and events to plan.

Then there are Christmas church services, musicals, plays, concerts, recitals, office parties, family gatherings, and Christmas light tours. Don't forget traditions to revisit and memories to make.

Have you ever been tempted to run away at Christmastime? It would be nice to take a two-week trip, maybe to a deserted island, and be alone with your family—or maybe just alone! There is a solution! We can intentionally cut the Christmas chaos this year. The five steps to doing so spell the word PEACE.

P: Pray Ahead

Guess what? Christmas comes on the same date at the same time every year: December 25. Start praying for your holiday experience when you see the first hint of Christmas decorations in the stores. In July, I browsed Hobby Lobby for items to decorate my patio, I was shocked to see there were things for sale announcing not only the arrival of Halloween and Thanksgiving, but—oh yes—Christmas. Instead of asking, "Can you believe Christmas decorations are already for sale?" tell yourself, "I am so glad I'm reminded to begin to pray for our family's holiday season to glorify the Lord. Let Jesus be celebrated on His birthday."

Pray for God's peace to rule before, during, and after your holiday. Pray for peace to reside in your heart and mind, so it will infect and redirect the chaos around you.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6, NIV).

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it to the full" (John 10:10, NIV).

E: Express Your Desire

After you've talked to God about your holiday hope for harmony, pick a night for a family meeting and share your thoughts with your loved ones. Ask each person to write down his or her favorite traditions, activities, and foods associated with the holiday. As you are gather the lists, mix them up and pass them out to a person other than the one who made the list. Give each person a few minutes to read aloud the list he or she received. There will be many repeated items on the lists. Have someone make a list of the most popular items in each category. Keep the most favorite traditions and activities on the to-do list, and let the others go. This will make simplifying Christmas much easier, and everyone will have a say.

Explain to your loved ones that as they simplify, it will help increase their peace and enjoyment during the holidays.

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as member of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful" (Colossians 3:15, NIV).

A: Accept a Few Invitations

Believe it or not, less is more. Take a minute to think about all of the events tied to the holiday season: Christmas parties, cookie decorating in your child's classroom, potlucks at work, secret Santa for the ladies' group, and Christmas plays and concerts. Unintentionally, we get ourselves and our families twisted and tangled in the Christmas tinsel of too much activity. Only one thing is important: focusing on Jesus.

How do you choose what to attend and how to spend your precious time? Share Advent with your family each morning at breakfast. I use a daily Scripture Advent calendar I found on Pinterest to keep focused on Jesus, the reason for the season. When we choose to start the day focusing on Jesus, it is easier to say no when the invitations arrive.

---

Use the lists you created in the previous step to discover what your loved ones' priorities really are and decide how you will use your time. What are your family's favorite baked goods? Ours are baking pumpkin bread, making Chex mix, baking sugar cookies, and making tamales. When my kids lived at home, we would plan a day or an evening for the actual baking of baked goods and schedule several days for making tamales. We even involved our small groups at church. If your children's classrooms are hosting Christmas gatherings you are helping organize (but they fall on the same day), involve your husband, grandma, or even a favorite aunt so you don't feel like you have to be in two places at once.

Say "no." That's right. It's OK to say, "No, we have other plans." Even if your "other plans" are to stay home with your family and finish frosting sugar cookies for tomorrow's class party. No guilt, no pressure—just honest self-control and wise time management. Your own children are going to learn a lot from you this year.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control; against such there is no law" (Galatians 5:22–23, MEV).

C: Create a Budget

Go back to your list of how you and your family plan to celebrate Christmas. Do you have a large immediate family? What about extended family? Figure out how much money you are able to spend on each person and make another list of items so your children can help with the shopping. You don't have to spend a lot of money on special gifts outside your immediate family. Pinterest is a great resource full of ideas for do-it-yourself crafts and creating memory ideas your children can make for relatives and friends. Mark your calendar and plan ahead for a Christmas gift-making craft day.

Have your children given you their Christmas lists? Also have them create a list of items they want to give at Christmas. If we don't teach our children how to share out of abundance, we will actually teach and reinforce selfishness. It helps to explain to them. "When we get new things, we must get rid of some old ones to make room." It's the principle of the most not-believed beatitude in the Bible found in Acts 20:35: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Can the giver be happier than the receiver? Although it goes against all of our human instincts, it is true. This is a very important kingdom principle best taught in life situations.

"John answered, 'Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the sam.'" (Luke 3:11, NIV).

E: Experience Jesus

Invite God's presence to take over your lists, plans, and desires. Ask Jesus to rule how you focus your time.

---

A wonderful tradition I started with my own children when they were young encouraged them daily during the twenty-four days before Christmas day. We had a couple of Nativity sets, and each morning when the kids were getting ready for school, I would hide the baby Jesus from each set. The challenge was that they could not search for the hidden baby Jesus until they were fully dressed, beds made, breakfast eaten, teeth brushed, backpacks packed, and ready to load into the car to go to school. When they were completely ready to walk out the door, I would say, "OK, let's look for the baby Jesus." As Sarah would search for the small baby Jesus, I would say "hotter" or "colder," depending on where she was situated in relation to where I had hidden it until she discovered the hiding place. Next, Ben would get the chance to do the same thing with the baby Jesus from the other nativity. It was a great Christ-centered way to start each day.

Not only do I hang on to our family memories, but I taught my children how to develop their own special traditions for their family Christmas seasons.

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you" (2 Thessalonians 3:16, NIV).

As you see, cutting Christmas chaos can be very simple. It takes planning and intention ... and of course, lots of prayer. I will be praying you will experience a "calm and bright" holiday and you can "sleep in heavenly peace." May God bless your Christmas!

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NIV).

Sheryl Giesbrecht's message is exchanging hurt for hope, one she shares with audiences as a radio personality, author and speaker. A dynamic teacher and motivating leader, Giesbrecht has endured many changes and challenges, moving her to a deep faith, trust and dependence on God. She is host of the nationally syndicated radio show, Turn Up the Music with Sheryl Giesbrecht, and the Executive Director of International Christian Ministries (www.ICMUSA.org). She is the author of Get Back Up: Trusting God When Life Knocks You Down.

Learn more about Sheryl Giesbrecht on her website, www.FromAshesToBeauty.com. She also invites readers to follow her on Facebook (AuthorSherylGiesbrecht) and onTwitter (@SGiesbrecht).

For a limited time, we are extending our celebration of the 40th anniversary of Charisma. As a special offer, you can get 40 issues of Charisma magazine for only $40!

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"Peace or Panic - The Choice is Yours!" Bobby Conner - The Elijah List

"Peace or Panic - The Choice is Yours!"

Bobby Conner, Bullard, TX

The Elijah List

How to Maintain a Tranquil Soul

We must discover the pathway to abiding peace and true tranquility! If we look out at the chaos and confusion, the death and destruction, we can be overwhelmed. However, if we will lift our vision higher and look up to focus our attention on Christ the King, our outlook will vastly change (see Isaiah 26:3).

Christ Jesus warns us that a time is coming when many will fall prey to fear and panic because of the things they see coming upon the earth.

And there will be signs in the sun and moon and stars; and upon the earth [there will be] distress (trouble and anguish) of nations in bewilderment and perplexity [without resources, left wanting, embarrassed, in doubt, not knowing which way to turn] at the roaring (the echo) of the tossing of the sea, men swooning away or expiring with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and caused to totter. 

And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with great (transcendent and overwhelming) power and [all His kingly] glory (majesty and splendor). Now when these things begin to occur, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption (deliverance) is drawing near. Luke 21:25-28 (AMP)

Living in Perfect Peace

Nirvana will not be generated by people or prescription pills. It is not obtained through yoga or occult meditation or any other occult practice. True tranquility of soul, genuine godly peace, is only found in the person of Christ, not in some ritual or pagan practice. He alone is the Prince of Peace. (Photo via Pixabay)

The antidote for negative thoughts or emotions is simple: We must obey the Word of God. The only cure for fear and anxiety is abiding in the Word, the person of Christ Jesus. Paul declares in Philippians 4:6-7 (AMP):

"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

The answer to stress and anxiety is not medication but a living relationship with the Master! This is the pattern we need to learn: As we turn our inner focus, our will, to Christ and place our affections on Him, adjusting our thoughts to the Word, we will discover abiding peace. This is the Enoch walk of the overcomer!

Christ's presence within us is our assurance that we can live in peace, even in times of pressure and turmoil. The promise is much more than just merely getting through the tough times – He promises us perfect peace and constant contentment.

Does this sound too good to be true? Hardly! This is the abundant life purchased for us by the broken body and spilled Blood of the Lamb of God at Calvary. He died and rose again to birth the Kingdom of God within us when we are born again.

The Prince of Peace abides within us! We have a Blood-bought right to walk in uninterrupted shalom, free from all anxiety and fear, because of the living, breathing presence of Christ in our temple. 

(Photo by Jennifer Page "The Way, The Truth, The Life" via elijahshopper.com)

This is not too good to be true. Despite the arguments of your mind and heart, the Scriptures are always true – and they are filled with examples of people who lived in peace in overwhelming situations.

Abraham believed God, even as he raised the knife over Isaac (see Genesis 22). Caleb and Joshua believed God's promises after 40 years in the desert (see Numbers 14:38).

Mary believed God's Word, having never known a man – and her soul rejoiced (see Luke 1:26-38). Christ Himself believed His Father even as He was crucified. When He overcame sin, fear, and death at Calvary, we overcame them in Him. We were united with Him in death, and we are united with Him in His resurrection. The Cross stripped all power from fear and anxiety; they no longer have legal mastery over our souls – unless we let them rule.

We must not allow fear and anxiety to rule in our lives. We must first recognize the voices of the enemy – spirits of fear, rejection, accusation, and more. We must then repent from coming into agreement with these evil spirits and begin to hate evil with a perfect hatred. 

Then we must renounce the presence of these demonic beings in our lives and cast them away in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Ask for and receive forgiveness from your heavenly Father for having come into agreement with the lies of the devil.

As we submit to God and resist the devil, we will experience the peace of God that surpasses all human understanding. In our union with His resurrection, we have been given open access to perfect peace. How do we abide in this peace as a daily, lived experience? We do it by keeping our minds, wills, and emotions fixed on Christ and living lives of repentance from sin. 

Whenever your thoughts or emotions stray from the Prince of Peace, recognize the temptation of the evil one. If your heart has already come into agreement with his evil suggestions, simply receive forgiveness and return to the heart of your Beloved, which is found in His Word.

Despite the Storms...

Ponder the promise in Isaiah 26:3-4, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength."

We must never doubt that God is good and that He does good. Instead, we must be confident that "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him" (Nahum 1:7).

This is the Rock on which we can stand when the storms come our way – and they will indeed come (see Matthew 7:24-27). (Photo by Adbar via Wikipedia)

Despite the storms, however, God's plans and purposes for you are wonderful. 

Jeremiah 29:11 says: "'For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,' says the Lord, 'thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.'"

You must distinguish between the truths of God and the facts of your existence – and choose to trust the Lord, no matter what you perceive or feel. Look not at the facts of your life, and do not place your emotions upon the facts of your life but upon the truths of these marvelous Scriptures. 

Then you will abide in peace. Instead of worry and anxiety, recall this to mind: "The Lord's compassion and mercies are overwhelming. When I recall this, I have hope. I am not consumed because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness!"(Lamentations 3:20-24, paraphrased).

Your battleground is not the circumstances of your life. The true battleground of the enemy is in your mind, will, and emotions. Keeping your thoughts and heart focused on good things will prevent darkness from overtaking your soul:"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:8-9).

Paul wrote, "Be anxious for nothing..." (Philippians 4:6).

We must stay focused on Christ and His unchangeable Kingdom if we are to have abiding peace during these days of chaos: "But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble" (Matthew 6:33-34).

There is no greater warfare than our abiding with the Prince of Peace. The God of peace will crush our foe under our feet (see Romans 16:20). The moment you feel the loss of peace, repent and ask for the Forgiver Himself to flood you with His peace. Have no doubt – He will bring peace because He always keeps His promises.

Stay in HIM – stay at peace!

Bobby Conner
Eagles View Ministries
Email: manager@bobbyconner.org
Website: bobbyconner.org

Bobby Conner: This "Gentle Giant" is uniquely anointed with refreshing humor and razor-sharp prophetic accuracy, which has been documented around the world. Bobby's dynamic capacity to release outstanding demonstrations of the miraculous – healings, signs and wonders – reveals the very heart of the Father toward us! 

Surviving a dramatic abortion attempt by his mother, being rescued again by the hand of God from drug dealing and suicide, the story of Bobby Conner is a display of a man who now walks in his God-ordained destiny to set others free! Highly esteemed as an internationally acclaimed conference speaker, Bobby has ministered effectively to over 45 foreign countries as well as here in the States for many years.

To subscribe to The Elijah List go to:http://elijahlist.com/subscribe

When You're Stressed About Money - SPIRITLED WOMAN

When You're Stressed About Money

 5/27/2015 CHRISTY FITZWATER  charisma magazine

We don't like to talk about money yet their are a lot of scriptures about finances. Here are 3 scriptures to speak over your finances regardless of whether your rich or poor. (iStockPhoto | kovalvs)

My first car didn't have power steering. It was a '67 Chevy, with bench seats and an 8-track player, from which I played Barry Manilow at full volume. I was a young girl, and he wrote songs of love and special things that made me cry.

You didn't try to eat a soft-serve cone while driving that car, because it took both hands and upper body strength to turn the wheel, which had the diameter of a large Chicago pizza.

My heart doesn't seem to have power steering either.

I say this, because I see the words "trust" and "lean" in the Bible, but it takes more than an index finger of movement to get my soul going in that direction.

This weekend I was stressed about money, and I'm just going to come out and say it. For some reason, I fan out the deep issues of my life for you to see, but money matters seem too personal to share. But don't we all deal with financial concerns every day? And Jesus talked about money a lot, so maybe I should talk about it, too.

I was awake at 3:00 in the morning running every worst case checkbook scenario I could think of. The antithesis of counting sheep. What if we get hit with a big medical expense this year? What if the furnace goes out? What if the hot water heater goes out? What if they both go out at the same time? What if gas prices skyrocket this summer? What if painting the house costs more than I budgeted?

I let my thoughts veer into the ditch of fear and hopelessness.

But that made me cranky, because I am a person of faith trying to encourage you to be people of faith. Why is it so hard to just trust the Lord with these things?

I decided it is hard. Hard work to steer our thinking.

So I put on tennis shoes, even though I didn't feel like it, and got on the treadmill. For 30 minutes I put effort into trusting the Lord. I mentally walked through some Bible verses I have memorized, and I lined up my thoughts about money with those truths from God's word. I acknowledged the greatness of God. I gave thanks. I begged for help in getting my thoughts going in a right direction.

When I stepped off the treadmill, I was joyful and calm. I was a new person.

But it wasn't an easy turn of the heart.

Three of My Go-To Verses When I Have Money Anxiety

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. Psalm 20:7 (I always replace the words "chariots" and "horses" with whatever I'm tempted to lean on at the moment, like a savings account balance.)

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  Proverbs 3:5 (Anxiety, fear and hopelessness are flashing signals that tell me I'm leaning the wrong direction.)

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.  Isaiah 55:9 (God probably has a solution to my financial concerns that is beyond my imagination.)

Money concerns are always going to be stressful and will always challenge our faith, but I figure if I can maneuver a tank of a '57 Chevy that lacks power steering, I know you and I can do the work to keep our thoughts between the lines.

Christy Fitzwater is the author of A Study of Psalm 25: Seven Actions to Take When Life Gets Hard. She is a blogger, pastor's wife and mom of two teenagers and resides in Montana. Visit christyfitzwater.com for more information about her ministry. 

Specific Direction is Coming from Heaven by Lana Vawser

Specific Direction is Coming from Heaven 

by Lana Vawser

Identity Network

He has gone before you and has prepared the way for you. HE will make your paths straight. Many have been experiencing high levels of anxiety over decisions and direction lately, and I want to encourage you....

He is coming with GREAT DIRECTION! Make sure you are PAYING ATTENTION!

"Your ears will hear a word behind you, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right or to the left." Isaiah 30:21

No matter what may be attempting to lead you off track, stay close to the Father's heart and lean in, KNOWING that HE is leading you, has gone before you, and you will NOT stumble and fall as you continue to draw closer to Him.

You will see things that are rising up against you, falling to the wayside. You will see things that aren't coming into alignment with heaven's blueprints and plans over your life, will fall to the wayside.

"Trust in the Lord completely, and not on your own opinions, but with all your heart rely on Him to guide you, and He will lead you in all the decisions you make. Become intimate with Him, in whatever you do, and He will lead you wherever you go."  Proverbs 3:5-6 - The Passion Translation

Angelic Visitations  

Pay attention to what the Spirit is revealing and leading. I saw angels being released in increase holding COMPASSES in their hands and they were coming to the people of God with specific instructions. When they came to the people of God before the directions were revealed there was an alignment happening.

I saw these angels hold the compasses up to the hearts of the people of God and the arrow would indicate their "true north."  If the arrow was out of alignment of the true north being HIM, those who were feeling lost, bewildered, confused, hurt, broken and had lost their depth of intimacy with Jesus, suddenly the vision changed and Jesus came to these ones and began to dance with them with such love and affection towards them. 

There was such a wooing taking place, a deeper invitation into intimacy and as they danced, I watched the arrows come back to true north. His love and kindness was bringing a beautiful alignment to His people and then once the alignment had shifted back to intimacy, these angelic hosts then back to release direction.

For others that were on true north, these angelic hosts were handing them these compasses and these ones were then lead into greater realms of revelation of His Word and who He is, which will then unlock new doors in the natural.

Specific Direction is Coming - Ask for Wisdom

Specific direction is coming from heaven. Lean in. Do not forsake asking the Lord for wisdom. He will freely grant it and the wisdom He releases will bring life to you and all that you touch.

Continue to worship and adore Him and great wisdom will be poured out upon you that will bring breakthrough, and as you walk in His wisdom and integrity there will be refreshment and healing in many bodies. In the encounters with His wisdom in worship, walking close to Him, bodies are being healed.

"For wisdom comes when you adore Him with awe and wonder, and avoid everything that's wrong - for then you will find the healing refreshment your body and spirit longs for."  Proverbs 3:7 - The Passion Translation

Those who operate in the wisdom of God will see all they place their heads upon turn to gold and will stand out in the world and attract those of great influence which will then see networks and partnerships for happen to bring shifts in atmospheres into the world for the Kingdom and Glory of God.

Trust in the Lord! Trust Him, even when you don't understand. Let Him lead you and guide you and follow His specific direction.

These specific directions are being released now to equip the people of God, to stretch, grow and promote the people of God. Ears must be tune to Him and as you follow His specific instruction, you will see you are being lead into greater realms of breakthrough, revelation and life.

Do not be anxious, do not stress. Trust Him completely. He has your best interests at heart! He has specific counsel and wisdom, He is about to impart. Just ask! :)

Lana Vawser

www.lanavawser.com

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"Joy. You Can Grow It." - Ahava Love Letter (Steve Martin)

                 

                    “Joy. You Can Grow It.”

“The people were filled with joy, because they had given willingly — wholeheartedly they had given willingly to Adonai; and David the king too was completely filled with joy, as he blessed Adonai before the entire community: “Blessed be You, Adonai, the God of Isra’el our father, forever and ever. Yours, Adonai, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory and the majesty; for everything in heaven and on earth is Yours.

The kingdom is Yours, Adonai; and You are exalted as head over all. Riches and honor come from You, You rule everything, in Your hand is power and strength, You have the capacity to make great and to give strength to all.  Therefore, our God, we thank You and praise Your glorious name.” Complete Jewish Bible Chronicles 29:9-13 )

Dear family of friends,

Over a period of three years, in a time not so far past, after coming through a time of seemingly lack and uncertainty, I found something that I never thought I would find during those days. It was joy. You can grow it.

It wasn’t a “happy” time, as most would consider, being without a fulltime job and with the inability in my own ability to provide as I thought I was most expected to. But looking back now, it was His time for me to be with Him. I had a lot of time to do just that, not having the 40-hour a week job to contend with. So I made the most of this time - to press into Him.

Making, by choosing to use the time to seek God the Father daily, by pressing in for more of His direction and purpose, caused me to increasingly know Him and His Holy Spirit, Ruach HaKodesh (Hebrew). I was expecting just comfort and an increase in faith. I discovered He gave me joy.

Looking at things with a different perspective allows you to see things with a different perspective. Sounds strange to say that, but it is true. When my heart was given more of the fruit of joy, by being in His presence, my attitude towards those who also walked in earthly lack, changed. My heart for those who know not the Lord, lost in their own methods of filling the void within, changed. My concern for those who chased after that which will never fill their heart’s desire; well, it changed.

Having a joy in our heart is not produced from happy moments, or from not having difficult times. But rather it is having our loving Father draw us closer to Him, as we spend time with Him, and allow His heart to expand within ours. Joy then comes. It is grown as fruit.

“You're blessed when you're ravenously hungry. Then you're ready for the Messianic meal.

You're blessed when the tears flow freely. Joy comes with the morning.” (Luke 6:21 THE MESSAGE)

I heard a recent message in church that the time will come when people knowing us may think we are weirder than normal, due to the joy that will bubble up from our spirit. They may even think we are “retarded”, lacking understanding for why we have any reason to be filled with joy in the midst of it all. I now understand that. He has given me His joy.

Joy will be our strength in the hard times to come. Being with Him now, as we take the time each day to spend with Him in prayer, reading His Word, and seeking His face, will further grow the fruit of joy within. I have found this to be true. I hope you do too.

Ahava to my family of friends,

Steve Martin

Founder, Love For His People

Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USAorganization. Fed. ID#27-1633858.

Please consider sending a charitable giftof $5-$25 today, and maybe each month, to help us bless the known families inIsrael, whom we consistently help through our humanitarian ministry. 

Your tax deductible contributions receivea receipt for each donation.

Go here for safe ONLINE GIFT GIVING THROUGH  OUR WEBSITE using major credit cards: LoveFor His People

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Contribution checks can be sent to: 

Love For His People, Inc.  P.O. Box414   Pineville, NC 28134

Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thankyou very much.)

Be sure to get my two books The Promise(CreateSpace/Amazon 2013) and Ahava Love Letters (Xulon Press, 2013). Bothavailable through Amazon.com Xulon Press.com , plus other website book stores.

You can also order both books, The Promise(on Amazon.com for $7.19 plus $3.95 S/H) and Ahava Love Letters Xulon Press for$14.90, plus $3.80) or you can get both from our office for $29. Send check tothe address above. I will autograph all copies ordered through our office.(Hey, and please include a contribution for Israel too!)

Please share this Ahava Love Letter withyour friends.

Email: loveforhispeople@gmail.com  martinlighthouse@gmail.com

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Ahava Love Letter #95   “Joy”   - Steve Martin 

Date: In the year of our Lord 2013(12.15.13 Sunday  at 7:45 am in Charlotte, NC).

All previous editions of Ahava Love Lettercan be found on this Blog, and our newest website: Ahava Love Letters

Grow some fruit today!