Monday, May 21, 2012

Stepping into the Light (Claiming Victory)

Along the way I’ve discovered that one of the many benefits of believing in Jesus is a life lived in hope—hope for today, hope for tomorrow, hope for eternity.

To be honest, there are days when this world’s struggles and trials do their best to weigh me down, tearing at my joy, clawing at my happiness, but in those dark moments I find myself clinging even more closely to the faith I have in Jesus—the assurance of one day living in ...the new earth filled with God’s brilliant glory. This amazing hope is a constant ray of sunshine in a cold, dark world, lighting up even the darkest corners, reminding me that one day the darkness will be banished and God’s light will forever shine on a fully renewed and totally transformed earth.

That morning, nearly 2,000 years ago, that Jesus rose from the grave, forever conquering death, all heaven joined the celebration—a raucous celebration that pronounced the final victory over darkness and death. Because of Jesus’ victory, no matter how dark this world becomes, I know I serve a God Who walked through that darkness and rose into glorious God-light.

And here’s the best part: Our victorious Jesus invites us to share in His victory over death, to join Him in the life-giving rays of that glorious God-light. So join me as I accept Jesus’ invitation and join in the victory celebration, claiming His victory as my own, and conquering death through the power of my resurrected Lord.

Final Thought: I live a joyful life of faith, confident in Christ’s victory, a victory that was accomplished though His death and resurrection, giving me the assurance of eternal communion with God—eternity overflowing with His perfect glory and grace.
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Between the Blogs

Personal Epiphany: It all comes down to love—God’s love.

Between the Blogs

Personal Commitment: This past week I’ve been not only enjoying, but also celebrating the spectacular splendor of spring; so, I am renewing my commitment to celebrate and enjoy every moment of my life, to embrace and cherish the abundant blessings my loving heavenly Father daily showers upon me.

Spring (A Catalyst for Change)

Along the way I’ve discovered that there’s nothing quite like the sweet smell of spring.

In Nebraska, spring came early this year. Everywhere I look, new life is bursting forth: The grass is quickly becoming green and verdant, warm spring rains are bringing out the rich, pungent smell of new growth, flowers are showcasing their vibrant hues, and trees are adorned w...ith blossoms of white, pink, red, purple, and magenta. Everything seems to be rejoicing—shouting joyfully praises—as it returns to life after its winter’s rest.

This amazing, spring-induced rebirth has caused me to consider the seasons in my life, reminding me that I should celebrate every moment, enjoying each season for the beauty and the challenges it brings.

Spring is the season of new growth and new life; each day seems to be filled with exciting opportunities and limitless possibilities. But, it’s not all easy; spring is also the time for planting, the time to explore the new opportunities God places in our lives. Spring is a time when God throws open the doors that lead to the fields He has prepared for us to plant. And spring is filled with storms, rain, and wind—difficulties that are the catalyst for genuine, if not always pleasant, growth.

So join me as I embrace the seasons of my life, recognizing God’s loving hand as He holds me through the storms, acknowledging His abundant grace as it shines on my newly-planted faith, causing it to grow strong and firm.

Final Thought: Every season of life brings both challenges and opportunities; and our God, in His infinite faithfulness, can always be depended on to bring us through triumphant and victorious.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Between the Blogs

Personal Epiphany: The greatest joy in my life is complete surrender to God, Who is always faithful—always.

Between the Blogs

Personal Commitment: This week has been busy and challenging, but God is always faithful. I am renewing my commitment to fully surrendering to God, embracing His unfailing love and allowing it to shine through me, lighting up the world around me.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Fostering Faith (Replacing Fear with Trust)

Along the way I’ve discovered that when trust in God replaces fear in my life, my days become sweet and filled with peace. Fear has often been a factor in my life. Usually it’s subtle and behind the scenes, whispering in the darkness, conjuring up the unknown, insisting that I rely on its eerie presence instead of putting my trust fully in God—the God W...ho has promised good to me.

I haven’t always viewed myself as a fearful person, but recently, upon closer examination, I’ve begun to realize that fear is often a major catalyst in the decisions I make; but, thankfully, God is steadily pulling me away from this dangerous mindset; He’s faithfully returning my feet to His firm foundation and lovingly planting them on the solid rock of faith and trust in Him.

This past week, God has been whispering comfort to my soul, saying, “I am enough.” “There is nothing I cannot satisfy.” “There is nothing I cannot do.” “I am cradling you in My arms, Trena.” “My love is sufficient.” “I am enough.”

Daily, I am still learning these beautiful truths, and I’m embarrassed to admit how long it has taken me to embrace these important lessons; however, when I am a willing student, God has an amazing way of teaching, guiding, and gently leading me into a deeper, fully trusting relationship with Him.

So join me as I continue to lay my troubles at the feet of my loving, compassionate God, resting assured in His ability to work all things for His good. Join me as I fully turn my life over to God, trusting in His divine plan, allowing Him to fulfill His plan in my life in His perfect timing.

Final Thought: Daily trusting in God builds and strengthens my faith.