"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion — to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair."~from ISAIAH 61 Bible verse for this Blog

APOLOGY to READERS who followed a SEARCH to HERE & didn't find it

On July 18, 2017, I drafted almost 3000 blog posts that I had published since 2008 when I began blogging, rather than edit each one. So if you clicked here from somewhere else and ended up with the post unavailable or error, I am sorry but this is why. It'd be too much work for me to go back and fix them. There's an explanation on 7/19/17 as I'm still learning.

Saturday, November 25, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS (6) PRESENCE

(In case you've chosen to do this with me)


for

"30 Days with Jesus"

Experiencing His Presence
Throughout the Old and New Testament

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS           Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES        Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS             Nov. 11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS         Nov. 16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS     Nov. 21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE           Nov. 26-30

During these 30 days "we'll look for and discover JESUS using 6 different lenses":

November 26 -30

we'll be looking through the lens of

PRESENSE

"We see God’s desire to be near His people since creation, and the ultimate invitation to be with Him is in Jesus."

I know I will enjoy being in His

PRESENCE

this final week of the 30 days!

Again I found key statements that connect with me, in just the intro to this
(but I'm only sharing the following):

"... A significant takeaway from this whole study for us has been the reality that if we can SEE JESUS' PRESENCE in the Old Testament, beyond a PROPHECY of the Messiah's coming, then we can have deeper conviction He is present in our lives right now, too."["Because He always has been."](from previous paragraph) 

OK, one more:

"JESUS is not merely patterned, pointed to, and promised in the Old Testament, He is present."

As indicated previous to that statement, 

"... the New Testament authors (explicitly show
Jesus' Presence in the Old Testament" {and some examples given are in John 8:56-58; Hebrews 11:26; Jude 5; 1 Corinthians 10:4; John 12:40-41}

Days 26-30

11/26 "The Tabernacle and The Temple" (Exodus 25:1-9; Ephesians 2:19-22) John 1:14

11/27 "Jacob's Ladder" (Genesis 28:10-15; John 1:51) John 17:24

11/28 "Pillar of Fire and Cloud of Smoke" (Exodus 13; John 8:12-30) John 8:12

11/29 "Angel of the Lord" (Exodus 3:1-6; John 14:15-27) John 14:23 (NIV)

11/30 "The Incarnation" (Luke 2) Luke 2:10-11

PRAYER

"God, thank You that Your Word is so applicable. Lord, help us to remember the Truth we’ve discovered in Your Word together. We love You so much, God. We make a commitment today to start really paying attention and looking for Jesus in the unexpected places of our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."

I thank You Lord for Your Presence, Your Protection, Your Provision.

I'm so grateful for the Patterns, the Prophecies and the Portraits

provided in Your Word and through JESUS.

I give thanks for 

"30 Days with Jesus"

that

"We are held safe in  the embrace of a God who promises the comfort of

His PRESENCE

from the Garden to Glory."

And that

JESUS

is returning soon.

(Revelation 22:12-20)

For this,

believers can be

eternally

THANKFUL

<>

I hope all of you enjoyed a wonderful

THANKSGIVING

<><><>

πŸ¦ƒ

I give thanks for you, too!

Thanking God

for some other important answers to prayer


<>

Looking forward to this last week of the 30 Days in

HIS PRESENCE





Monday, November 20, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS (5) PROTECTIONS

(In case you've chosen to do this with me)


for

"30 Days with Jesus"

Experiencing His Presence
Throughout the Old and New Testament

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS           Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES        Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS             Nov. 11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS         Nov. 16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS     Nov. 21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE           Nov. 26-30

During these 30 days "we'll look for and discover JESUS using 6 different lenses":

PROTECTIONS

 "We see Jesus through God’s protection of His people, as we start to discover the ultimate protection we have in Him."

As I began reading the intro to this part, I'm finding that once again,

this one pertains to me (and not in a good way either)

it reveals that I too struggle with

"... trusting God as my ultimate Protector"

because I constantly find myself "collecting" or thinking about

worst-case scenarios, as if that will protect me or prepare me better

for when or if "they" might occur

... endless nights/early morning hours ...

wondering, praying, mind & heart racing

depends on what is going on or going to be happening, well in advance
 
(sigh)

So supposedly these next few days will be very helpful ...

as we look at God, the Protector

and "the ultimate Protection we have

in JESUS Christ"

{my head says it knows this, but I don't too often find myself or the ones I'm praying for -protected}

I do believe this, Lord - help me with any unbelief!

{part of my struggle is that in my life, there have been times that I specifically was trusting 
God for my Protection, even prayed & put on the "full armor of God" but found myself very unprotected & subjected to being a victim (let's say) of the enemy - in broad daylight, which tends to lend itself to the insecurity, doubt, wondering, lack of trust, unbelief? etc. so I've been there & don't want to be (caught off-guard) again. It's from this place that I'm learning to trust.}

AND OH, HOW I CLING TO YOU, JESUS and RELY ON YOU!

I am so grateful for the

PROTECTIONS

I've been given by God

and the ultimate Protection I have in JESUS


11/21 "Protection of Joseph" (Genesis 40; Galatians 4:3-7) Genesis 50:20

11/22 
"Protection in the Red Sea" (Exodus 14; Mark 4:35-41) Mark 4:
39-40

11/23
 "Protection in Jonah"(Jonah 1; Matthew 8:23-27) Matthew 8:27

11/24
 "Protection of the Torah"(Leviticus 26; Hebrews 8:1-5) Luke 24:
27

11/25
 "Protection by the Divine Warrior"(Isaiah 59:1-20; Ephesians 6: 10-17) Ephesians 6:10-11



"Lord, thank You that You sent Jesus, who deeply understands how hard it can be to process fear inside these frail, hurting, human hearts of ours. Thank You for the hope that Jesus has ​​overcome​​ the world. Now help me overcome what I’m facing today. Thank You for the grace that I don’t have to do it perfectly. I just have to make progress. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."


<><><>

11/25 raises many questions I have about the injustices happening in the world currently


{so I may have more on this later}

meanwhile

please pray as the Spirit moves you

for our nation

Israel, Gaza civilians, Ukraine

and so many others

πŸ™πŸ‘πŸ™
πŸ•Š
PROTECT ALL of US

Sunday, November 19, 2023

JESUS, the LEADER



This blog post features

Jesus,

the Leader

 for November

<><><>
Section 7 includes:

 Jesus, the Leader
(weeks 45-48)
and then finally
 Jesus, the Overcomer
(weeks 49-52)

November - Section Seven: Jesus, the Leader
45. The Standard of Greatness   Nov.6-10
46. A Servant First                       Nov.13-17
47. The Victor                             Nov.20-24
48. Commander in Chief             Nov.27-Dec1

December - Section Eight: Jesus, the Overcomer
49. The Passion of the Christ—the Rest of the Story
50. His Grace, My Place
51. The Warrior Rises
52. Dead Man Walking


<>
This looks incomplete, but it's not - as long as I don't forget (lol)

EACH WEEK 
I plan to add and fill in the missing parts for each Chapter:

JESUS
the
LEADER

This Week is #46

SCRIPTURE READINGS for the Weeks of Chapters 45-48:

45. Mark 9:30-35; Matthew 20:20-28; 1 Peter 4:7-11; Philippians 2:1-8; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
46. John 13:1-17; Romans 12:3-8; Mark 10:35-45; Hebrews 6:9-12; Galatians 5: 13-15
47. Matthew 4:1-11; James 4:6-8; James 1:12-15; 1 Corinthians 10:6-13; Hebrews 2:14-18
48.

These are the subtitles/segments of each devotional in Chapters 45-48:
(listed after the title of that devotional)

November 5-10

45.The Standard of Greatness:  "Who's the Greatest?"; "A New Measure"; "Approach Serving the Right Way"; "Appreciate Serving the Right Way"; "Apply Serving the Right Way"

Approach - Appreciate - Apply

<>

November 13-17

46. A Servant First:  "A Surprising Reversal"; "See Opportunities"; "Serve Others"; "Same Old, Same Old"; "Surrender Ourselves"

Surprising - See - Serve - Same - Surrender

"The servant-leader is servant first" 
... Robert K. Greenleaf

"Servant leadership is an approach to leadership where the leader puts the needs of others 
before their desires and acts as a servant first. 
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example 
of a servant leader, and His life and teachings show us how important 
it is to lead with love, compassion, 
and a servant's heart. 
Christians are called to follow Jesus' example 
and become servant leaders 
in our spheres of influence. 
We can become great leaders by showing compassion, empowering others, and creating a culture of respect and collaboration. 
Leading with love and humility for God’s glory makes a positive difference."
from CCU

<>

November 20-24

The Victor

47. The Victor: "Fight of the Century"; "Fierce Competitors"; "Don't Be Surprised by Temptation, Expect It"; "Don't Be Fooled by Temptation, Detect It"; "Don't Be Defeated by Temptation, Reject It"

I am so thankful for JESUS

The Victor

"Christ, the Victor"

a song from a musical

"The Victor"
(Jamie Owens-Collins)


<>

November 27- December 1

48. " "

and the
PRAYERS:

45. "Lord, Give me a holy desire to be great in Your kingdom by giving my life away to others and bearing witness to Your greatness."

46."Lord, I thank You that You have cleansed me from head to toe. Teach me to humble myself, as You have, by serving others in Your Name."

47."Lord, I trust that You've prepared me to fight the good fight. Fill me with Your Spirit and gird me with Your Word to resist the temptations of the enemy."

48. " "


"Few words are batted about by managers, pastors, {*educators}, entrepreneurs, and politicians more than leadership. When we want to learn how to lead, we often look to those whose names emblazon book covers and fancy business cards. But what about the leader who claims more followers than any person in history? What made Jesus such a great leader? The answer has the power to transform us into people of influence and impact." James Merritt, "52 Weeks..."

* I added my own: 
In my opinion, we are either a leader, 
or a follower waiting to blossom.
Some of us, just need more encouragement 
and perhaps training in how to lead.

There is no better Teacher, Helper or Example
of a Leader than 

JESUS

<>

"6 Characteristic Traits of Jesus as a Leader"

"Ten Traits of Jesus as Transformational Leader"

"The Leadership Strategy of Jesus"

[Just a few links given above plus the video below but there are much more]

"A Leader Worth Following"
You Tube video of the Church teaching the series of 52 Weeks with their Pastor Chip Bernhard

Truly, JESUS, is the Leader Worth Following!





Wednesday, November 15, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS (4) PROVISIONS

(In case you've chosen to do this with me)


for

"30 Days with Jesus"

Experiencing His Presence
Throughout the Old and New Testament

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS           Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES       Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS            Nov. 11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS        Nov. 16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS     Nov. 21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE           Nov. 26-30

During these 30 days "we'll look for and discover JESUS using 6 different lenses".


        PROVISIONS        

 "We see Jesus in God’s physical, emotional, and spiritual provision for the people of the Old Testament as Jesus is our perfect provision for all our needs."

I am so thankful for the
PROVISION
of
JESUS
and all the 
PROVISIONS
from
God, the Father

[a very vulnerable but truthful opening statement to this]

"I know what it feels like to beg for God's mighty intervention. 
I also know what it feels like after an extended period with no change ..."

{I can't even wrap my head around the 400 years without hearing anything from God in the Bible, between the end of the Old Testament & the New Testament; when I can't usually go a day or a week, with this silence or absence, believing I've hit a brick wall or something I did.}

The book continues: 

"... When we're in this place our hearts ache. Our minds race ..."

{I recently have visited this place so my heart & mind are captured with these opening words, which made me think about the 400 years of silence that I wrote above. And as I read, I will hold on to God's promises of PROVISION through JESUS, being thankful we have JESUS!}


11/16 "Priests" (Exodus 19; Hebrews 2:14-18)
1 Peter 2:9

11/17 "Prophets" (1 Kings18:16-1 Kings 19:9; Luke 4: 1-15) 1 Kings 18:21

11/18 "Provision in Kings" (1 Samuel 8; Ephesians 1)
1 Samuel 8:7

11/19 "Provision in Bread" (Exodus 16; John 6:31-35)
John 6:33

11/20 "Provision in Water" (Exodus 17:1-6; John 7:37 -52) John 7:37-38


"Father God, thank You so much for sending Your Son, Jesus, as the ultimate Prophet, Priest, King, Bread of Life, and Living Water. Seeing Him so active and evident in Scripture brings me such ​​comfort​​ in places of my heart that feel empty today. Thank You for listening to my prayers for all the things I desire, need, want, and ask for. I pray, in the meantime, You sustain my faith by reminding me of Your past faithfulness to always keep Your promises. Thank You for the perfect provision of Jesus that paved the way for a relationship with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."




* Half way through these 30 days, and I finally figure out that since I post at 6pm, I should have been posting the eve before, so I've done that today. I certainly hope that Lysa & Dr. Joel plan to do this as an online study! I know I would sign up and probably will re-do this book again, where I can spend more than 30 days.{I did catch up doing PATTERNS on the right day, so I hope I do again with PROVISIONS.}


Friday, November 10, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS (3) PATTERNS

(In case you've chosen to do this with me)


for

"30 Days with Jesus"

Experiencing His Presence
Throughout the Old and New Testament

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS         Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES      Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS           Nov.11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS        Nov.16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS    Nov. 21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE          Nov. 26-30

Truthfully, each week, is becoming a bit more challenging to keep up with this becuase the content is more intense - or maybe that's just because the past 5 days was on PROPHECIES (or through the lens of PROPHECY). I was quite pleased when I made it through PORTRAITS on time and was ready to begin PROPHECIES on November 6th. But I can't believe it's November 11th & already time to move forward to the next one: PATTERNS. One of the "patterns" that I noticed right away is that all of these "lenses" begin with the letter "P" (on Purpose) which is easy for me since my name begins with "P" that makes me more aware and it's a good teaching tool.

<>
 
During these 30 days "we'll look for and discover JESUS using 6 different lenses"

November 11th - 15th
we're looking through

PATTERNS

"We see Jesus in alternating patterns in the Bible like famine and rain, or wilderness and promised land that help us connect to the consistent reality of the presence of Jesus."

"This week, we are diving into how we can see Jesus throughout the Bible in Patterns."

"PATTERNS

are everywhere in Scripture."

11/11 "Famine & Rain"(Amos 8:John 7:37-43) Psalm 63:1

11/12 "Rising & Falling" (Genesis 37; Philippians2:5-11) Romans 8:28

11/13 "Wilderness & Promised Land" (Deuteronomy 32:10-11; Matthew 4:1-11) Deuteronomy 8:3 NIV

11/14 "Less-Than & Greater-Than" (Exodus 4:1-17; Matthew 5:1-11 and 43-48) Matthew 5:44

11/15 "Chaos & Order" (Genesis 4; John 1:1-18) Isaiah 11:6

I'm pretty sure that you've noticed by now 
but in case you have not:
each day there is Old Testament & 
New Testament readings
to demonstrate JESUS in both (the contrast)


"GOD, THANK YOU FOR CONTINUING TO REVEAL YOURSELF TO ME THROUGH SCRIPTURE. Through everything I continue to study, I pray I would see more of Jesus and it would drive me into an even deeper relationship with Him. I thank You today for Your everlasting faithfulness. ​​I trust You​​ through every situation I am facing right now. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."


Looking at the 

PATTERNS

and

Giving Thanks

to

JESUS

for

connecting us to the consistent

reality of

His Presence

in each pattern

we can see God's hand


Monday, November 6, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS (2) PROPHECIES

(In case you've chosen to do this with me)


for

"30 Days with Jesus"

Experiencing His Presence
Throughout the Old and New Testament

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS           Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES        Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS             Nov. 11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS         Nov. 16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS     Nov. 21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE           Nov. 26-30

During these 30 days "we'll look for and discover JESUS using 6 different lenses."

This is the 2nd lens - "each one will show us something surprising and encouraging, 
and confirm God's good plan for us."

PROPHECIES

 "We see Jesus through the prophecies that tell of His coming in the flesh."

We are given quite a thorough definition of Prophecy 
and other terms to help us understand
Prophecy in the introduction to this week.

11/6 "Prophecy in the Beginning" (Genesis 3; Luke 1) 1 John 5:4-5

11/7 "Prayers and Praise" (1 Samuel 1; Ephesians 6:10-20) 1 Samuel 2:1

11/8 "Poetry" (Psalm 2; Matthew 3:13-17) Psalm 2:6 NLT

11/9 "Minor Prophets" (Micah 5; John 10:22-42) Micah 5:2

11/10 "Messiah" (Isaiah 9:1-7; Matthew 18:1-8) Isaiah 9:6

Every section ends with a beautiful prayer like this one at the end of PROPHECIES:

"Father God, thank You for the truths we unpacked this week in Your Word. I praise You for these revelations You are showing me while I find myself in my own waiting place. I pray right now that You would strengthen my faith today. Show me ​​more of You.​​ And thank You for Your Son, Jesus. He is evidence that reminds me You always keep Your promises. Continue to show me more of Him in the coming weeks of this study. In Jesus’ Name, Amen." Glory πŸ™ŒπŸΌ

I am thankful for the

PROPHECIES

completed in

JESUS

and

yet

to be fulfilled

<>




Tuesday, October 31, 2023

NOVEMBER ... with JESUS and (1) PORTRAITS

... usually in November, I set this month aside for giving God

THANKS

(and I still am giving thanks to God)

but because November has 30 days, I decided that it's perfect to start a new book

by Lysa TerKeurst and Dr. Joel Muddamalle

"30 Days With Jesus ..."

[right at the ending of my "52 Weeks With Jesus" this month & December]

 it's confirmed once more that this indeed is/was the 2023 One Word God gave me

 With

JESUS!

all thanks, glory, praise and honor

belongs to Him

as I continue


"... Experiencing His PRESENCE ..."


I have not even looked at this new book yet but I have decided it's what I will be doing for November (and whenever you choose) I hope that you, too will be reading this book. 

This book it set up for 6 weeks (5 days each week):

   WEEK 1 is PORTRAITS           Nov. 1-5
   WEEK 2     PROPHECIES      Nov. 6-10
   WEEK 3     PATTERNS           Nov.11-15
   WEEK 4     PROVISIONS       Nov.16-20
   WEEK 5     PROTECTIONS   Nov.21-25
   WEEK 6     PRESENCE         Nov.26-30

{it won't quite all fit in November if I do it week by week; and since Advent starts the 1st weekend of December (the 3rd), I need to make it work}

So that is why I have posted dates for each one instead of doing by Weeks
{there's only 4 weeks and a half}

However, looking at the content of each week, I notice that it includes workbook parts

[Your Notes] and [Your Response] here

which might be why it's 5 days each week so the weekend you can catch up (lol).

It seems pretty intense and I hope I am able to complete it in my schedule.

It appears to be a great study through the Old & New Testament,

a study of JESUS shown throughout all of Scripture

beginning to end, not just the New Testament.

It shows JESUS in the Old Testament as well.  

"in PORTRAITS - We see glimpses of Jesus through people in the Bible, as they partially fulfilled what He would later completely fulfill."

"in PROPHECIES - We see Jesus through the prophecies that tell of His coming in the flesh."

"in 
PATTERNS - We see Jesus in alternating patterns in the Bible like famine and rain, or wilderness and promised land that help us connect to the consistent reality of the presence of Jesus.

"in PROVISIONS - We see Jesus in God’s physical, emotional, and spiritual provision for the people of the Old Testament as Jesus is our perfect provision for all our needs."

"in PROTECTIONS - We see Jesus through God’s protection of His people, as we start to discover the ultimate protection we have in Him."

"in PRESENCE - We see God’s desire to be near His people since creation, and the ultimate invitation to be with Him is in Jesus."

Looking forward to yet another experience

With JESUS

through the "lenses" of the great team of these authors and 

Scriptures

from THE AUTHOR!

<>

Thank you Lysa & Dr. Joel again!

<><><>

Lysa captured my heart right away in her opening letter
after I purchased the ebook because my interest was piqued 
by reading her P31devotional and some emails previously,
and I couldn't wait! 

(so I knew right then that this was an answer from God for me & 2023 before I end the year).

<>

I am so very thankful for the

PORTRAITS

reflecting JESUS to me

in the Bible & in my life

as we start November 1st - 5th with

PORTRAITS

of

Adam & Eve (Genesis 1-2; Luke 3:21-38)
(Genesis 1:27)

Moses (Exodus 1-2; Matthew 1:18-2:15)
(Colossians 1:15-16)

Joshua (Joshua 1; Matthew 11:28:30)
 (John 10:11)

David (1 Samuel 16:7; Acts 13:22)
(Matthew 2:1b-2a)

Esther (Esther 3; Luke 19:41-44)
(1 John 4:14)

"... all their portraits (that) point to Jesus."

then on November 6th, I'll turn to the 

PROPHECIES

with JESUS and no breaks

so that's Nov. 6th to 10th

and so on.

<><><>

I'll try to check back & maybe post some, if time allows

... at least the Scriptures, we're looking at and studying to see

JESUS

in the Old & the New Testaments

<><><>


Hallowed Evening

to you all

for

All Saints & All Souls

Days

{I believe we fit both categoriesπŸ˜‰}

At least, I'm sure my youngest brother does, because he left this earthly place for 
his heavenly home after a week in a coma, 
on Nov. 2nd,1990.
[And this year, my older brother's gone, too].

It's so many years ago, Gary, 
now more years in heaven than you lived on earth. 
I remember & think of you often
'cuz I still miss you so much!
Always in my heart!

I'm give God thanks for the portrait of Jesus reflected 

by Gary to me & others

in the way he loved & served!

I thank Jesus for being Gary's friend & Savior!




Sunday, October 29, 2023

"Jesus, the Helper" for October

{Actually JESUS is our Helper all the time, not just for October}
*Moved the post forward*


Jesus,

the Helper



This is for 

Section 6 which includes 
(weeks 40-44) 
with
Jesus, the Helper

followed by
 Jesus, the Leader
(weeks 45-48)
in November

and then finally
 Jesus, the Overcomer
(weeks 49-52)
in December

 October - Section Six: Jesus, the Helper


40. The Thirst Quencher
41. A Most Valuable Treasure
42. A Gracious Judge
43. Always Available, Always Accessible
44. Our Best Friend


[please GO BACK to this blog post for my overall post and explanation, thank you]

All the rest of the content (Scripture readings, segments, prayers) is back there.

I will highlight in bold RED each week the one I'm doing here & there

<><><>

JESUS 

is my very best Friend.

Of course, He is much more, but a relationship should start with a friendship.

With an acquaintance, I would not say, I have a relationship (but it could become one)

With a friend, I know it's the beginning of our relationship.

A friendship can come & go through the years, 
yet once it's been developed initially 
into a relationship, 
you can return and pick up 
right where you left off.

If you stay in touch, then that relationship is maintained, freshened & remains.

If you loose touch, but were friends, you usually can pick up the time lost & continue.

The same is true with Jesus, once you establish your relationship & stay connected.

<>

I'm sure to gain more insights during this week with

JESUS, the Helper

as

Our Best Friend

meanwhile

"Jesus is our model for friendship—because He loved without limits— and He makes it possible for us to live a life of friendship—because we have been transformed by everything He shared with us. Through friendship we come to know God and through friendship we enact the love of God."~Baylor University

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*I have moved this post from October 8 to October 22nd, but last week it would not allow me to move it ahead for October 15 #42 A Gracious Judge. So the previous post for #41, #42 & #43 no longer exist, because I have made the changes and just moved the same post ahead. However, I'm pretty sure if you subscribe, you will still get emailed this, as if it's new. {sorry} It's not. Just the portion at the end, and the part that I highlight in bold red. 

Saturday, October 7, 2023

My THIRST QUENCHER

JESUS
my Helper

"THE THIRST QUENCHER"
#40

As I started this anew, with only one blog post for the entire Section 6 with JESUS, the Helper, I missed not having a Sunday post. Because of this, for this first week (at least), Chapter or Week 40, I've decided to write about "The Thirst Quencher" (now that I have read the Scripture Readings and all 5 parts of the devotional by James Merritt). I should have considered doing this for all the previous sections. {a little late, huh?

Since I have been joining an Online Bible Study with Proverbs 31 Ministry on the newest InScribed Collection book written by Wendy Blight since September 5th and we're almost finished with "Rest for Your Soul"; I've found out that my soul not only needs "Rest" but that my soul is thirsty also, just like the woman at the well. Only through Jesus Christ can my soul's thirstiness be quenched. If you've been in a dry place (like a desert) or your mouth becomes so dry ... you understand the need for a THIRST QUENCHER, now listen to THE THIRST QUENCHER (and hopefully you'll Come and Rest with Him) (Matthew 11:28-30) {by the way, Wendy's book is well with the purchase - the content is invaluable!!!}

Jesus tells us in John 7:37:     
                                                                                    
"... If anyone thirsts, let him/her come to Me ..."

And this passage brings us right back to Jesus with the woman at the well in John 4. It seems to me that I often relate to the 'nameless' women more in the Bible. We know that she is a Samaritan, but I recently discovered through the Jesus Project that in the Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions, she is venerated as Saint Photini (Photine, Photina; meaning "the luminous one" or "enlightened"). This conversation between her and Jesus is one of the longest stories and conversation that Jesus is recorded having with anyone. I also can relate to times in my life when I thought I needed to search for something to satisfy me, when my soul was really thirsting for the One that I already knew - Jesus! He is all I ever needed and need! There's such a deep satisfaction that can only come from Him - I'm truly thankful that I found this out mid-life or before I wasted much more of my life. I knew Jesus (about Him), but I did not know about the importance of my personal relationship and salvation that comes from Him, until I made a shift in my religious denomination, and even still I never realized how much I need and rely on Jesus but needed to live out all that I had read and learned and knew by applying this to how I lived my life, the choices and decisions I made, which comes down to showing my love for Father/Jesus/Spirit through my obedience to His Word, following what I believe. I'm still a work in progress, yet "I live and breathe and have my being" through Him so I must stop, recalculate, refresh, and refocus on Jesus by returning constantly and consistently to having my thirst quenched by His Spirit in the Word (His Holy Bible). The Spirit produces thirst-quenching water and we can be filled by the Spirit (to overflowing as we remain) and believe in Jesus, who gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit. I find Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman, Photine, to be very enlightening as I seek more of JESUS. No wonder I can relate (and most of you, probably do too). It's like "photosynthesis" - we need His Living Water to grow, too; and be filled (chloro-phylled) (lol) and generate oxygen - living, breathing, spirit filled image bearers of Jesus! I certainly want more of His Light!

I find more and more satisfaction in JESUS, especially as I continue with Jesus on this 2023 journey to understand more of the reason this became my One Word; and why Jesus/God/ Spirit would impart this as my Word - was it for me? was it for people that I am still praying for them to accept and receive Jesus? or as I watch people die throughout this year, and in my past, I wonder if they knew Jesus like I've had the privilege to know, love and serve Him, so I will see them in heaven for eternity and not be the ones who perish (John 3:16). Oh, how this weighs so heavily upon my soul; my heart and mind can hardly bear that I've prayed to no avail, or sadly that the way I lived and spoke did not witness to them to want that personal relationship and the free gift of Jesus' salvation - to turn their eyes and life over to Jesus. Some this year (and in the past) have, and I rejoice for them. Then, there are some others, that I am so unsure, but pray for our merciful God, who sees hearts, to forgive and redeem still. Is that possible? I just can't understand how eyes, ears and hearts don't accept and receive such a beautiful gift, nor why their souls don't thirst for Jesus. 

James Merritt begins this section of Jesus, the Helper - with the Thirst Quencher and what caught my eye and attention was the very first segment, because it is part of my blog title (...Messes...) and has been throughout my life "Messy Mess Ups". How can my 'messes' be any part of having my thirst quenched? I surely know why I need(ed) Jesus, the Helper, any and every time I was in a mess. Often, when I did not seek Jesus first or at all, and attempted to resolve my mess - it just became messier. My, oh, my, do I regret not having sought my Helper or looking for His Help before I ended up in yet another colossal MESS! Do you notice how one mess just seems to snowball into yet another until you're too deep into the mess? I surely have. Of course, it was mostly because I did not go to the Word & Jesus - in prayer and seeking His Help. For some, it may be pride ... for others, just plain stupidity and even for some of us, it's a deep seated rebellion inside of us. But frankly, whichever or whatever, it is just plain SIN. Many use the word "mistake" or wrong choice, poor decision or MESSES, but whatever you call it - it's a mess and its root is in sin "making a (moral or lack of) decision or living (continuing in) a lifestyle that violates the law of God. It's just plain acting selfishly and not at all what God's will is. It shows up in the Bible as iniquity (mischief, wickedness, evil, trouble, wrong, error, fraud, crime, lawlessness). For me, sin is sin and separates us from God. 

We most certainly have been getting a real dose of all of this in the last few years and it seems to be increasing at a rapid rate daily. It's alarming. And this MESS just keeps getting to be insurmountable! Bombarding us from all sides. Perhaps you are fortunate (and live like an ostrich with your head in the sand, hoping it will just go away) because you have escaped being impacted or personally involved. The news is not of interest until it affects or impacts you personally. Perhaps you don't care about the people (believers) of Ukraine and the senseless invasion of their country by another, and the endless devastation of their people and territory, continuous destruction all around them, yet they continue to fight for freedom (and so should we, or else it will soon be knocking at our own door). This certainly is a bigger MESS but our own messes become tangled into this by our actions or reactions and whether we stand up as followers of Christ (I dare not even use the word Christian) and open our hearts of compassion as JESUS would. We cannot just live in our own little world, cut off from ALL that is happening. MESSES don't just go away! 

{This is my own personal view and not at all what James Merritt writes about in this segment. If you have been reading these, you'll recall that each devotional is divided into 5 segments with separate subtitles. It's the 1st one that inspired me and caught my attention with the Messes}  

40.The Thirst Quencher : "Messy Mess Ups"; "We Should Know that Jesus is Waiting to Meet Us"; "Someone Wants to Meet You"; "We Should Believe that Jesus is Willing to Accept Us"; "We Should Rejoice that Jesus Wants to Change Us"


I know that I know people are not coming to JESUS and seeking their thirst to be quenched by His Spirit; another counterpart seems to be on the rise - that is self-seeking, selfish, and self-determined for their way above all else - for more evil and less good. More greed and bullying of others, and less compassion and justice seeking for others, only for themselves. Truly, my heart aches for our world (the people on the fringe)... for the many who are literally thirsting, but also for those who have no idea that they need The Thirst Quencher to saturate their being and pour out more of JESUS by the power of His Holy Spirit. "Just because you have messed up doesn't mean you have to stayed messed up"(James Merritt)

"This woman's encounter (the woman at the well) with Jesus, not only demonstrates how we should relate to people who are on the fringe, but also it's a wonderful gift for all of us who have messed up at one time or another. What we discover from this woman who doesn't deny her messy past is that as we fess-up to our mess-ups, Jesus will clean up our messes." James Merritt

Too many need to fess-up (CONFESS) and surrender to Jesus!

What a difference it would make if more people would admit their BIG mistakes

REPENT
(means to change their ways)

and
RETURN
to
Jesus
(or come to Him)

REALIZE
[as the rest of the segments of #40 point out]

that

JESUS
is waiting to meet us

JESUS
is willing to accept us
{so why not try accepting Jesus}

and

we really should
REJOICE
that
JESUS
wants to change us

so
how 'bout it?

I know I can use all the help I can get to change.

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Let's make this UNITED effort to 

RISE UP

and

RENEW

our lifestyle and steps to

REFLECT

JESUS!

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The Woman at the Well became the first Evangelist to her

COMMUNITY

"By approaching her, JESUS demonstrates His care for ALL,
regardless of their social standing."

She is the first disciple that
RECOGNIZED
JESUS
as the promised
Messiah

and
there is
ONLY ONE

JESUS

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I found some really good You Version reading plans on Thirst(y):

THIRST: The Story of SAMARITAN WOMAN
(would fit with this one the best) 5 day plan

"THIRST is there more?"
5 day plan

"Becoming Thirsty"
6 day plan

There are a couple more on "Hunger & Thirst" too.

Many pages with plans for 

Jesus, my Helper

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 Then I went to look for more on "Quench" and there was quite a list.

My choices may not be yours so I just linked to the search,

The ones that say "Be Still" are very similar to the P31 OBS

with Wendy Blight on "Rest for Your Soul" (the book is so good)!

I saved the one of 22 days of "BE STILL" (and did a few others)
{apparently I need lots more practice in this "being still"}

I like this: "Make SPACE for God to speak to you."

Search my heart
Pursue His Presence
stay Attentive
Clear your mind
Enjoy His Presence

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UPDATE: (after posting)

I do like each one of the weeks of #40-44, but since I chose to write on Thirst Quencher and not the others (yet), I held back from doing another blog post when I began week (#41) Most Valuable Treasure. Then I looked ahead again at the rest, thinking I should do one each week but that's exactly what I hoped to get away from doing - however, when I saw (read) Our Best Friend (#44) who is Always Available, Always Accessible(#43) {it's a difficult decision} and with the daily news intensifying over Israel & the Palestinians, I have been crying out to our Gracious Judge (#42) realizing how important these weeks are - as we seek more of JESUS, our HELPER, and just how much our world is in need of the HELPER, found in our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His Holy Spirit, I am most thankful that October is ALL about JESUS!

And so I am making

S.P.A.C.E.

for

JESUS

ONLY





To my faithful visitors;
all of you who spend your valuable time here with me
I do appreciate you so much!

Thank you for taking your time to visit!

Love, Sweet blessings & Hugs!

DIOS TE BENDIGA
GOD BLESS YOU

always

Peggy