The Potter’s House

From the moment I was put into my parent's arms, they intended to make sure I grew to understand the importance of serving God. As an adult, my husband and I have remained actively involved in a local congregation regardless where we've lived, and we made sure our children were given the same opportunity I was as a child. Our goal was to teach them that serving God doesn't depend on anything except their personal heart response to the Holy Spirit at work in them—in all of us.

For several years we attended "The Potter's House," a powerful church in Columbus, Ohio. Across the front of the sanctuary were the words, "Where Broken Vessels Are Made New". The Word preached by Pastor Tim Oldfield is powerful, pure, and packed with Life-Giving truth that literally transforms the heart of those willing to respond with a submitted and committed heart.

Jeremiah 18:2 speaks of the potter's house: "Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words."

The Master Potter works on each vessel individually to refine, to strengthen, to mend, to reshape and to prepare us to be the beautiful, useful, unique vessel He purposes us be.

It is His sovereign right to form our lives as He pleases. "As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand." How often do we have a preconceived opinion of the course our lives will take only to have the Master Potter change everything? Through circumstances, situations, and other influences in our life, He Himself sets the course for us, most often not the direction WE would like to go, but the direction He has planned and purposed for us. It is so awesome to realize that we are part of the Sovereign Creator's plan for all of mankind.

Isaiah penned the words that continue to be my personal prayer, especially when I feel myself resisting the work of the Master Potter: "Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." (Isaiah 64:8)

We need not be dismayed when we feel the reworking and transforming work of the Master Potter in our lives but rather rejoice that His purposes are continuing to be accomplished as we remain submitted and pliable in the Master's hands.

My desire, O Lord, is to be used of You, to please You, and to remain submitted to You all the days of my life. I submit to Your masterful work in my life as You mold me and make me after Your will. You are the Potter, and I am the clay . . . have Thine own way, Lord, have Thine own way! Amen!

© Jan Ross
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The Cup and the Platter

We recently attended a writers conference (by the way, it was wonderful) where an interesting point was brought up. When a cover of a book is designed, particular attention should be paid to the spine since it is usually the only thing that shows when a book is on a bookshelf. When a reader is looking for a good book, the binding of the book will catch their attention and cause them to stop and read the title, then pick up the book to look at the entire cover and read the back. The cover is the first point of focus.

Consider for a moment the advertisements we see on the television. We're drawn to the cleverest and most appealing presentation of products. It's those we have a tendency to look for when we shop. The best labels. The brightest colors. The most appealing packaging. The advertising industry makes its living on our judgment by appearance.

Jesus, however, teaches us something totally different. Matthew 23:26 says, ""Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also." He knew men judge by the cover without paying much attention to what's inside. We are all too often concerned about how things look, so much so that we take more time cleaning and preparing that which is outside than we do that which is inside.

I'm reminded of the Psalmist as he wrote: "God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; to see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary." (Psalm 63:1-2) The Psalmist is desperate to cleanse the inside of his vessel first, not only first, but EARLY in the morning. He longed for that encounter with the Father every day so much so that he likened his heart to a dry and thirsty land yearning for the heavenly outpouring.

As we learn to prioritize our time, using it wisely with more focus and attention on what's inside the "cup and platter," we will find that we will outwardly begin bear a glorious resemblance to our Father, an appearance that will be noticeable to all with whom we interact.

Take the Psalmist's advice . . . seek Him early EVERY DAY. It's a worthwhile priority that has eternal consequences.

Father, help me to respond to Your gentle nudge every morning as You invite me to take care of inner cleansing first as I spend time in Your presence. Lord, teach me to always keep my priorities in order, regarding my time with You as most important in every day. In Jesus' name, by His blood, for His glory I pray . . . amen and amen.

© Jan Ross
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Lord, It’s Hard to be Humble

How many times have we seen people promoted while we felt we deserved the promotion instead? I know it happened to me more than once and it's not easy to deal with.

Whether in the workplace, in ministry, in clubs and organizations, or in the church, promotion comes from God. Any attempt to promote ourselves is counterproductive to the will and plan of God in our lives and will likely end in failure or, at the very least, become burdensome and less than fulfilling. He calls us to be humble and to allow Him the privilege of promoting us according to His plan and purpose so He might be glorified through our skillful and anointed work.

"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time" (1 Peter 5:6)

Humility is reducing oneself to lower circumstances. Humility presents itself as behaving in an unassuming manner devoid of all haughtiness. And, humility accepts less even when more is deserved!

Consider some definitions of the word "humble":

1. Marked by meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit; not arrogant or prideful.
   
2. Showing deferential or submissive respect.
   
3. Low in rank, quality, or station; unpretentious or lowly.
   
4. To bring low; to reduce the power, independence, or exaltation of; to lower; to abase; to humiliate.
   
5. To make humble or lowly in mind; to abase the pride or arrogance of; to reduce the self-sufficiently of; to make meek and submissive.
   
6. To abase; lower; depress; humiliate; mortify; disgrace; degrade.
   
7. Thinking lowly of one's self; claiming little for one's self; not proud, arrogant, or assuming; thinking one's self ill-deserving or unworthy, when judged by the demands of God; lowly; weak; modest.
   

With an honest time of self-examination, how many of these definitions of "humble" do others see in your life? Don't be surprised if you find yourself lacking some of these qualities in your life. Don't be surprised if you feel the Holy Spirit shining His spotlight on some issues in your heart even now as you read this.

To be Christ-like is to be humble; the result of humility is in God's very capable hands and it will be realized in the hearts of those who have learned true humility.

"And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." (Matthew 23:12)

Lord, my desire is to be a humble servant, willing to accept any circumstance I may find myself in. My flesh is weak but, Lord, my spirit is willing to seek after humility. Help me, teach me, lead me, Oh Father, in the way that is most pleasing to you, regardless of the cost to me personally. Help me to submit my heart to You; do Your perfect work within me and be glorified. Amen!

© Jan Ross
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Deep Mercy

We sang a song this past Sunday morning about God's mercy. It keeps rolling over in my heart: "Your mercy goes much deeper, father than I can see."

When I first heard the song, I was reminded of Psalm 36:5. "Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds."

God's mercy and faithfulness toward us is totally unmerited and undeserved. Mercy and faithfulness are attributes of God which are passed on to us because of His goodness and for His pleasure.

What an awesome thought! It is for His own pleasure that He is merciful. It pleases Him to be forever faithful toward us. To receive His mercy and to recognize and truth in His faithfulness is a form of praise to the Most High God. He is glorified as we learn to walk in the fullness of all He gave us so freely.

His hand of mercy can be seen in our lives each day as we sense His faithfulness to us in spite of our shortcomings. With humility of heart and meekness of spirit, we offer our sacrifice of praise to One who gives such a precious, costly gift. Our gift back to Him consists of our love, devotion, adoration and most importantly, our obedience.

Take a few moments right now to thank Him for His MERCY and FAITHFULNESS. God IS good and His mercy endures forever. I need His mercy more every day and am so grateful it goes so much deeper, farther than we can see.

Your mercy, Lord, is deep, reaching parts of our lives we aren't even aware of, cleansing us and accepting us wholly and deeply. Your faithfulness is beyond measure. Thank you, Lord for Your mercy which goes much deeper, farther than I can see. Amen.

© Jan Ross
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August 24 – A Word Fitly Spoken

Have you ever opened your mouth and said something, immediately wishing you could take it back? I think we've all been there, and probaby more than once!

Words can be sweet like the juice of a fresh picked apple in late summer. Words can be to someone as valuable as pure gold or priceless as polished silver. Words fitly spoken can be the source of life to the hearer.

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." (Proverbs 25:11 KJV)

This scripture is precious to me in that it speaks of words, and I tend to be a woman of many words. Hopefully most of them are fitly spoken words. At times, however, words come out of my mouth that tend to be thoughtless and meaningless, not the kind of words spoken of in Proverbs 25:11.

Words frame pictures. Words express intangible thoughts. Words convey feelings and emotions. Words stir up response. Words, once spoken, can never be taken back but are forever loosed into the atmosphere with the potential to either propagate life or cut it off. Words build up, encourage, edify, or inform, or they tear down, hurt, oppress, or kill. Our words have power to affect a situation, a life, a family, a community, and even the world. Words are powerful!

My goal today is to use words carefully, to be selective in my speech so as to encourage, build up, and edify my husband, my family, and those with whom I communicate both locally and internationally.

What do your words do? What kind of power do your words have? Do you speak words of life? Take notice today and every day ... use only words that are fitly spoken.

Father, forgive me for often being careless with my words. Lord, help me to carefully choose my words so they will produce life in the ear of the hearer. Help me to speak only words that are "fitly spoken." Amen!

© Jan Ross
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Chocolate Donuts

Ok, I admit I need help! A chocolate donut or two ... or three with my coffee in the morning is about as good as it comes. The combinations of flavors tickle my taste buds. But, tell me, why is it that the things which bring us so much pleasure are so bad for us? Obviously, there's something wrong with me. Normal women don't indulge in such fattening, artery-clogging fancies in the morning. And, it's not like I do this every morning, but when a chocolate donut graces my kitchen counter, it calls out to me to "Come and dine!" I'm powerless to resist.

The Bibles tells me to "resist the chocolate donut and he'll flee" [TJV-The Jan Version]. But, have you ever seen a donut flee? I mean, does it suddenly grow little legs and scamper off into some hidden place where it will no longer be a temptation to me? Surely, the little round fellow would leave a trail of chocolate and I'd simply follow it to its hiding place, consume it, and that would be the end of it. Actually, the thrill of the hunt may make the prize even sweeter, so wouldn't it be better just to eat it before it gets even sweeter? After all, it's already packed full of sugar and calories without the added sweet thrill of victory!

In all seriousness, I rarely indulge but when I do, I live with regrets. I know I've opened the door to trouble because I've allowed myself to yield to temptation. Actually, the chocolate donut is a silly example of how we allow sinful thoughts to lead to sinful actions. Our eyes fix on the forbidden fruit, we fail to resist, we make excuses and justify our sin, and we partake only to find ourselves plagued with guilt and shame after the fact.

James 4:7-8 officially says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (NIV) We have a remedy for temptation that's been tried and proven over and over and over throughout the centuries. The power is not in resisting temptation; rather, the power is in submitting ourselves to God.

When we position ourselves near to God with submitted hearts, we find strength to resist temptation, even if it's a luscious chocolate donut with morning coffee. James tells us if we come near to God, He will come near to us. We have to make the first move toward Him to find that place of strength in the face of such great temptation.

Although my taste buds may disagree, there's nothing sweeter and more satisfying than being close to the Lord, sheltered under His wings, and infused with power to resist temptation. So, today I'll let those little chocolate donuts sit there on the counter as I've found the place of true guilt-free pleasure and shame-free satisfaction in Christ.

Tomorrow, well, Lord help me stay strong!

"Blessed
is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." (James 1:12 KJV)

© Jan Ross
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Basic Science Lesson

Deeply enfolded in the very beginning of creation's account we find a picture that bears consideration ... it has to do with light.

"God made two great lights--the greater light to govern [to rule; to have dominion over] the day [continually] and the lesser light to govern [to rule; to have dominion over] the night [darkness]. He also made the stars." (Genesis 1:16 NIV)

Before man became a living, breathing being, God had His people in mind. The record of God's creation of the "greater light" and "lesser light" seem to prove this out.

Anyone who has taken a class in science understands basic principles about the sun and the moon, about light and darkness, and how they all relate to one another.

Let me explain. The sun never goes out; it is simply hidden from portions of the earth allowing the earth to "sleep". But, the moon is not just a "little sun" in the sky. In and of itself, the moon has no light ... it only reflects the light of the sun.

Darkness covered the face of the earth, but the light of the sun chased the darkness away, proving light dispels darkness.

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12 NIV)

He also said, "apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5 NIV)

Without Jesus, we have no light. But, we can reflect His light and "have the light of life", dispelling the darkness of this world. But failing to follow Him leaves us unable to be light--unable to reflect His light in the world around us.

"This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." (1 John 1:5-7 NIV)

It's all about staying close to the Light. And, it will show if we're not. We can "say" we have fellowship with Christ, but there if there is no light in us, we're not being truthful with ourselves or with others. We walk into a room of "darkness" and blend in, shrouded by the darkness (sin) that surrounds us. But if we truly walk in His light, we can walk into a room of "darkness" and we will stand out--we will be different, and noticeably so.

There is no room for incognito Christianity. Genesis 1:16 calls us the "lesser light" as we reflect the Light of the sun/Son. But our job is to "govern the night". We are living in the "night" - in a world of darkness - and we're to bring light to the darkness, overpower the darkness with the light we reflect from the Son.

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9 NIV)

We've been called out of the darkness of this world to walk in the marvelously wonderful light of Christ, reflecting His glory (light), as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation".

Let your light shine ... reflect the glory of the Son of God and dispel the darkness that surrounds you. Don't hide His light; don't be afraid to let Him shine through you.

Be a Light-bearer to this sin-sick world and "let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 KJV)

Father, it is my greatest desire to let Your light shine through me, reflect off me, and lead others to You. Make me a reflection of Your glory in the midst of the darkness of this world. Remove from my life anything and everything that obstructs Your brilliance so Christ who lives in me may be visible at all times. Amen.

© Jan Ross
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Amazing Corn, How Sweet the Taste

There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh-picked corn, rolled in fresh hand-churned butter, and sprinkled with just a touch of salt. Oh, how sweet it is! I actually caught myself singing "Amazing corn, how sweet the taste!" to the tune of "Amazing Grace."

Fiddlestix! What was I thinking? How could corn compare to the sweet and precious grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ?

Ahhh, maybe it's not that much of a stretch to think that corn and grace are connected after all. While each ear of corn begins as a single kernel, our life in Christ begins with a single element--grace...unmerited favor.

God's grace planted in our hearts grows or increases as it is fertilized, watered, and cultivated by the Word of God. Much like that single kernel of corn is planted, fertilized, watered, and cultivated, grace multiplies exponentially as we put our faith into action, growing in the Truth of God's Word, and walking daily in fellowship with Him.

This afternoon I was freezing some corn and noticed some ears were underdeveloped. They came from the same single kernel, planted in the same field, given the same fertilizer, watered with the same water, and cultivated with the same hoe. But some of the ears failed to fill out completely. Could it be those ears were like those of us who fail to fulfill our commitment to Christ?

As I look at my life, I am compelled to ask myself, is grace in me multiplying as much as that one kernel multiplies into an entire ear of corn or is my walk with God underdeveloped and unproductive? What about you? Are you multiplying in grace?

"But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." (2 Peter 3:18 KJV)

Father, I want to grow in grace and multiply like the ear of corn. May my life be as sweet as the fresh corn dipped in butter and sprinkled with salt...fruitful, abundant, and pleasing to You. For Your glory, Lord, amen.

© Jan Ross
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Cell Phones and Grandfathers

A very special bond often exists between a grandson and his grandfather. As grandparents, we may go through life and not realize how profoundly we impact our grandchildren until one day a word is spoken and that which has been held captive in the heart is revealed. One such moment recently brought a proud smile to my husband's face and wrapped his heart in the bonds of a very special love.

Our grandson was going through some challenging times at school. He got caught up with the wrong crowd and began to emulate some of these unfortunate kids' vocabulary. A word here and there soon grew to a flurry of text messages with, well you know how kids try to outdo each other.

But, soon his secret was out. Mom learned all about it and confronted him as well as the parents of these so-called friends. You can imagine the look on the other parents' faces as they, too, checked their son's phones, revealing the truth. The boys were in trouble.

After taking away the phone and having some deep discussions, our grandson broke down. Not because he had disgraced his mom or dad, but because he suddenly learned he had hurt his grandfather. Once he realized his behavior wounded his grandfather's heart and deeply grieved him, the tears began to flow and repentance soon followed, complete with verbal and written apologies and distance from his undesirable friends.

Sin must evoke some form of sorrow in order for true repentance. Paul spoke of this specifically in 2 Corinthians 7:10 when he was bringing correction to the church at Corinth. He didn't want to hurt them or to alienate them, but he knew the need for true godly sorrow.

"Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death."

Where there is no sorrow, there can be no repentance. When our grandson realized how he had let his grandfather down, the deep love between them became the motivating factor in his true repentance.

This begs the question for us today? How deep is our love relationship with our Father? When we sin and wound His heart, are we truly sorrowful for offending Him and bringing hurt to Him? Are we so moved with sorrow that we repent and work to change our ways? How much do we value the love relationship with our God?

The Holy Spirit continually leads us to examine our hearts much like our daughter examines the children's cell phones, looking for things that might challenge their well-being, their safety, and their opportunity to grow to be strong in character. Do we resist the Lord's correction with our attempts to justify our actions? Or do we respond with godly sorrow leading to true repentance?

"Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty" (Job 5:17 KJV).

Father, so many times I do wrong and fail to stop and thoroughly contemplate how my actions, or lack thereof, grieve You. You desire good for me. You desire that I be strong and of good character so Your image can readily be seen in me. Forgive me, Father, as I learn to yield to Your correction more readily with the assurance that it is because of Your love that You discipline me. I surrender to Your love. In Jesus' name, amen.

© Jan Ross
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Feet in the Windshield

Freeway traffic on a Sunday afternoon. Everyone with a destination in mind. Cars flying by. Road construction. Detours. Sports cars, trucks, motorcycles, compact cars, trailers, campers, and … feet in the windshield.

On the way to our daughter's house about two hours away, I happened to look in my rearview mirror; following close behind was a vehicle with feet in the windshield. Not just feet, but bare feet.

The apostle Paul talked instructed us very specifically about our feet: "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace…" (Ephesians 6:14-15 KJV)

How often do we leave the house without shoes … without preparing ourselves to carry the gospel of peace wherever we go?

The bare feet in the windshield spoke volumes to me. We begin our days taking time to shower, fix our hair, put on clean clothes, brush our teeth, and more. We make the bed, take out the dog, grab our cup of coffee and run out the door. However, too often we neglect to prepare ourselves spiritually. So many believers fail to take the time to make sure their "shoes" are on.

We have an obligation, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, to complete our daily adornment which includes (among other things) preparation of our feet. The feet others see should never be bare but should always be "shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace."

"How beautiful on the mountains
are the feet of those who bring good news,
who proclaim peace,
who bring good tidings,
who proclaim salvation,
who say to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
(Isaiah 52:7 NIV)

Are you prepared to bring the good tidings of Jesus Christ? Are you ready to proclaim peace and salvation? Does your presence in the midst of unbelievers proclaim, "Our God reigns!" Will your feet carry you into every encounter fully prepared to share the Gospel?

If your feet were in the windshield in my rearview mirror, what would they look like? Would they be fully "shod" or would they be bare?

Father, I confess that too many times my feet are like those in the windshield … bare and unprepared. Forgive me, Lord, for not always taking the time to prepare myself properly before starting my day. Lord, I want to have beautiful feet, carrying the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ to all. In Jesus' name, amen.

© Jan Ross
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The Ceramic Figurine

My mother loved ceramics and all things artistic. When I very young, she would go to my uncle's house one night a week for classes in ceramics. Uncle Dave had his own kiln and potters wheels and ceramic molds, paints, brushes, sponges, and anything a ceramic hobbyist could dream of. His basement was off-limits to us when we were kids, but we'd sneak down there for a peek every now and then. I believe we had enough fear of getting caught that we didn't dare venture too far from the stairway.

A few years ago as I was in the emotional flurry of having to finalize her affairs in life, I came upon a collection of delicate figurines that had survived the years of raising children, moving, and downsizing for retirement years.

Alone in her house, I sat on the floor going through a plethora of memories and experiencing flashbacks, seeing where she had displayed each one, aware of the surroundings, filled with memories too soon forgotten. But, even with tears filling my eyes, I couldn't help but notice the details of her artwork. Oh, the hours she must have spent carefully planning and constructing each one! I carefully examined them in sheer amazement at her handiwork. I happened to turn one of them over and found that forever etched in each doll was her name—that ceramic figurine would forever bear her name.

Immediately I thought of Isaiah 49:16 … "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands." The Lord has inscribed our name on the palm of His hands just like my mother engraved her name on the bottom of each ceramic creation, to remain there forever.

Have you ever held something in your hand so tightly that when you opened your hand, an imprint of that which you were holding remained? This is what the verse implies—He holds us so tightly that our imprint remains on His hand.

Life has its challenges, there's no doubt. But, when the tears of grief sting your eyes and flow down your cheeks, when the pain of life's circumstances weigh you down, when the unthinkable snatches the rug from underneath your feet, don't forget to look for hidden treasures. If we dare to take our eyes off our situation and look closely through the eyes of the Spirit, we're sure to find God is somewhere in the midst of it all. We're forever before His eyes, not to be forgotten or overlooked. He is with us and very much aware of every detail of our lives.

Those ceramic figurines will not last forever. But, God's love and careful attention to our every need will be with us always, for we are "engraved…on the palms of [His] hands."

Father, I am amazed that You should pay such careful attention to each one of us, individually, uniquely, and specifically. It is difficult to fathom such a Great God whose love knows no bounds, whose watchful eyes overlooks no one. Your love is unfathomable! Thank You, Lord, for reminding me that even when I feel alone and overwhelmed, You are near…that I am indeed imprinted on the palm of Your hands and forever before You. What comfort! What peace! What love! Amen.

© Jan Ross
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Watching for Undesirables

Gardening and preserving food at home have its advantages. For one, you know exactly what's in your food and don't have to worry about ingesting bugs, creature parts or other less-than-desirable items found in manufactured produce.

We've never grown Brussels sprouts in our garden until this year; my husband and I figured we'd venture into the realm of the unknown by adding turnips, Brussels sprouts, and a few extra delicacies we both enjoy. Although the little heads look like little cabbages, their stalks are incredibly unique. In fact, I feel quite safe in saying that no two stalks are identical. And the little heads … well, each one is as distinctive as a thumbprint. Such an imagination our Creator has!

My husband harvested our first batch of home-grown Brussels sprouts. I couldn't have been more excited to bring those little perfectly formed gems into my kitchen and being the preserving process. New challenges lie ahead.

I carefully sorted through the box, washing each sprout, trimming the outside leaves and core, placing it in a bowl of salt water. Oh, I could just taste them … cooked just right with butter and a dash of salt. My mouth was watering. As I began to peel back the outside leaves, much to my amazement, little crawly things were indiscriminately tucked away in the lush green leafy sprouts. I gasped!

How could such perfectly-formed delicate sprouts provide forbidden amnesty to such creepy crawlies? From our garden, no less! My imagination went wild. How could I be sure I found all the squigglies? How could they have gone undetected all these weeks while we watched the stalks grow and the little buds form under their leaves?

I began to pick through the sprouts dancing around in the heavily salted water. The crawly things began to squiggle and loosen their grip on MY sprouts. It took a leap of faith, but I finally decided I'd found them all and went on to prepare the sprouts for blanching and freezing while keeping a watchful eye out for those undesirables.

All the while, I'm wondering if the Lord didn't have a lesson in here for me. Of course, I should have known that every natural circumstance has the potential to provide a powerful spiritual lesson, so I began to consider worms and sprouts although the picture in my mind's eye wasn't very pretty.

Let's begin with the stalk of the Brussels sprout. It's tall and its leaves spread out as far as they can reach, providing opportunity for their offspring to grow in a safe and healthy environment. There are no two stalks alike, unique in every way except for the fact that Brussels sprouts beget Brussels sprouts. Well, maybe with a few creepy crawlies included, but at least they begin pure.

Just as the stalks of the Brussels sprouts are unique, God created each one of us unique, formed for a purpose—to bring praise to the Creator who is, above all, worthy.

"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well" (Psalm 139:14 KJV).

But, also like small, tender Brussels sprouts which began pure as the driven snow, we tend to have undesirables tucked away in the recesses of our hearts where no one can see them. The Master Inspector, however, is totally aware of their presence. Because he loves us even more than my husband and I love Brussels sprouts, He carefully picks us up and begins to peel away the outer layers exposing the innermost man. He cuts off the hard core—the hardened heart and turns it into a heart of flesh, tender and compassionate, just like His.

The process goes on as He continues His work by seasoning us with salt … not just to preserve us, but to rid us of undesirable behavior and tendencies hidden in our hearts. As the salt is applied, those crawlies behind the surface begin to loosen their grip and separate themselves from our lives. The Master Preserver then takes us and purifies us even more by subjecting us to the fire, stopping the growth of those things which had previously so easily beset us.

"For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt" (Mark 9:49 KJV).

Carefully, we are put through the processor and prepared for eternity. While my Brussels sprouts will only last up to a year in the freezer, the Master Preserver seals us unto the day of redemption.

"…and grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30 KJV).

Who would have thought such a lesson could be found while preparing Brussels sprouts for freezing? While I'm still not thrilled about the worms in those leafy green gems, I'm thankful that they served a purpose by revealing yet another way the Lord speaks to us through His creation.

Thankfully, because Immanuel, God With Us, came to earth, anointed by the Spirit of God "that [we] might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD" (Isaiah 61:3 KJV), He will be continue to be glorified as the cleansing and purifying process continues in each of our lives until the Harvest.

Father, I'm so thankful you allow us to see the "worms" hidden away deep in the recesses of our hearts so we can deal with them. Admittedly, it's not always easy—it would be so much easier to think we don't need to be subjected to the purifying process. But, Lord, I give You my heart once again and ask You to reveal to me those things which will corrupt my heart. Purify me, Lord, and cleanse me with the Word of God and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Be glorified in me and through me until the day You call me home. In Jesus' name, amen.

I'll certainly pay more attention to worms in the future … how about you?

© Jan Ross
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No More Tearful Timidity

As soon as the host began his introduction, a chill ran down my spine. It was my turn to take the platform—the moment I'd prayed could somehow be avoided.

Nervously, I got up out of my seat. My knees felt like overcooked spaghetti noodles—limp and mushy. Trying to find at least an ounce of confidence, I walked toward front of the room filled with people waiting to hear what God had laid on my heart. A sweat broke out on my brow and my chest began to pound…I couldn't catch my breath. Dropping my notes on the way up the steps, I leaned over to pick them up and nearly passed out.

Fear paralyzed me—fear of being in front of a group of people, fear of every eye in the room on me, fear of being judged, fear of making a mistake, fear of people laughing at me, fear of stumbling over my words, fear of failing to accomplish the task, fear of the sound of my own voice. Fear literally choked me and robbed me of the opportunity to speak freely from my heart.

Years have come and gone. Still, fear looms and lurks around corners waiting to trap me, but I'm wise to that the enemy's devices. In an effort to defy old man fear, I have purposely allowed myself to be put in situations where I had to speak, not only in front of a few, but in front of thousands.

When I came across 2 Corinthians 10:1, I understood all too well what Paul was saying. "By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you-I, Paul, who am "timid" when face to face with you, but "bold" when away!"

Although it is, and always has been, much easier for me to communicate through writing, I refuse to let the enemy intimidate me with fear when it comes to speaking. As with Paul, sometimes I may appear "timid" when speaking face-to-face, now it is the gentleness and mercy of Christ speaking through me, not fearful timidity. My growing confidence and "boldness" to speak openly is based on the authority I have as a believer communicating the Word of God.

Do I still struggle with fear while standing before a crowd? Only if I take my eyes off Christ and put them on the circumstance. I continually remind myself that whether I'm speaking to one or thousands, if my eyes are on Christ and I am acting as His spokesperson, I have nothing to fear.

The life of Paul continues to amaze me as I study. He's such a "normal" man with real issues that were overcome as Christ in him become more and he became less. I'd be willing to admit I'd like to be like Paul, but my true goal is to be like Jesus who is the reason Paul became such a powerful influence throughout the ages.

Nope … no more fearful timidity for me. And, while you may hear my voice quiver and see the drops of sweat on my brow, you can be confident that I am still growing in the "meekness and gentleness of Christ". I don't want to emulate Paul; I choose to be a reflection of Christ as His image is being perfected in me for His glory and His alone.

Father, I admit that I deal with fear—sometimes fear of speaking, sometimes fear of failure, sometimes fear of many different things. Thank you for the assurance that there is nothing to fear as long as I dwell in You. Christ must become more as I become less. I simply want to be more like Jesus every single day. In Jesus' Name and for His glory I pray. Amen

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)

© Jan Ross
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Improving our Serve

Acts 6: 1-7

As the number of disciples in Jerusalem increased, the Grecian Jews felt discriminated against the Hebraic Jews and complained that their widows were being overlooked. The twelve apostles were increasingly having their hands full preaching the gospel and dealing with practical things, and realized something needed to be done in order for things to run more smoothly. Their main task of preaching the gospel would suffer if they also had to look after the daily tasks of providing food for the many believers who had everything in common. Both were important ministries, but coulnd’t be done well at the same time.

The Twelve brought it up during a meeting with the disciples and asked them to choose seven men who were known not only to be spritiual, but also wise.
This God-inspired decision brought forth seven believers who used their spiritual talents to serve in a practical way – serving tables and doing menial tasks.

Because they were obedient to God’s call, the Twelve now were free to devote all their time to spread the Word of God, with great results. Acts 6 tells us that the number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly and even a large number of priests became to believe in Yeshua.

In the Body of Christ, each of us has an important task to fulfill, but not everyone of us can be a preacher.
Often, believers have a distorted idea of what it means to serve God.

They prefer to be active in spiritual ‘glamorous’ activities – worship leader, youth leader, Bible study leader, etc. And if they can’t function as a leader, it sounds more ‘spiritual’ to say they can’t be put on the roster to help clean the church because they’re going to the Bible study or prayer meeting.

Why is it always so hard to get volunteers to help clean up after a meeting? Why is it that always the same people are rolling up their sleeves?

What is often overlooked in the midst of our busy lives is the ‘helping’ – unfortunately a tainted word in our selfish society. But it can be taught and developed, and the best example we have from Yeshua himself: washing the disciples’ feet.

O yes, most believers manage to participate once in a while in those ‘foot washing’ ceremonies that are so popular nowadays. It's a one time thing, and everyone can see how ‘spiritual’ they are, washing each others feet. However, when you ask them to help wash the coffee cups after the service, they suddenly have other, pressing business to attend to.

Serving is a life style, which is just as spiritual as preaching the Word, or being a worship leader. The difference is that it’s usually done in hidden corners, where not many people see what you’re doing. We should ask ourselves what our motivation is: do we like to serve in the spotlight because it boosts our ego, (and we receive an instant reward) or serve in ‘secret’? This is often without an earthly reward and sometimes we are overlooked or ignored.

We should always keep in mind Who we serve. God promises us a heavenly reward if we continue to be faithful to our calling, in which ever capacity that may be: serving him in the spotlight, or in the hidden places.

God knows our heart, when He calls us to serve Him and we are obedient to that call, it’s up to us to be faithful. He will honor our commitment.

Even as we are serving coffee - a menial task - we may do it "as if unto the Lord".

“Work for God. The pay may not be much, but the retirement plan is ‘out of this world’!”

Strangely Forgotten

"Those were the days, my friend…" Some of you may remember the song by Mary Hopkin from back in the late 60's. Longing for the good times lingering in the heart often provides a barrier, shutting out any memory of pain, hurt, and unpleasantness.

Take a journey with me, if you will, back to the day of Moses. As he was leading the children of Israel out of Egypt, they all witnessed the awesome power of God to deliver and hide them from their enemy.

But, it wasn't long before one could hear the Israelites' chorus echoing throughout the camp: "Those were the days, my friend…" as their memories of Egypt seemed strangely appealing. The memories of pain, slavery and oppression were lost in the shadows of days gone by, faded and forgotten.

"We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic…" The disgruntled and disillusioned Israelites bemoaned their new-found freedom: "… But our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes" (Numbers 11:5-6).

God had divinely and miraculously delivered the children of Israel out of Egypt and set them on their course to the Promised Land. They saw His hand protect them, spare the lives of their firstborn, lead them through the Red Sea, shield them with a cloud from their enemies, lead them with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, no one was sick, clothes didn't wear out, and so much more. Yet, although He fed them with manna every day, they murmured and complained, rejecting God's provision and wishing they had never left Egypt.

Oh, what an ungrateful people! God provided manna – bread from heaven to feed them and sustain them as they journeyed through the wilderness. Yet, all they could think of was onions and leeks and garlic from Egypt! His miraculous deliverance became ordinary and unimportant in comparison to the false memories.

What was God's reaction? "Then Moses heard the people weep throughout their families, every man in the door of his tent: and the anger of the LORD was kindled greatly; Moses also was displeased" (Numbers 11:10).

Just as the Hebrew children needed to finally put Egypt and all it stood for behind them and gratefully focus on all that God had blessed them with, we need to learn to put the memories of the world behind us and be content with what God has provided.

Many times we find it easy to long for the days when we didn't have to struggle to discipline our lives, when we were "free" to do as we wanted, when we were accepted by our friends, when we lived without constraint. Other times we look at others in the world who seem to have an easy life and dare to wonder if it's all worth it. But, that's exactly what the enemy wants us to do. He wants us to long for Egypt when God has miraculously and mercifully delivered us and given us everything we could possibly need for our journey.

Don't get caught in the enemy's trap. There's nothing in Egypt that can compare to the journey toward the Promised Land … NOTHING!

Lord, forgive me for looking back with longing in my heart at the years I spent in bondage and oppression to this world. You have delivered me and set my feet firmly on the path to the Promised Land. You have provided everything I need; You have satisfied my soul. You have given me all I need that pertains to life and godliness. I truly am blessed, Lord. Help me to release any and all desires I have for "Egypt" and rejoice in all You have done. I surrender my heart to You once again. In Jesus' name, amen.

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15)

© Jan Ross
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Enduring Faith

Physical endurance has never been one of my strong points. Even as a child, I wasn't overly athletic except, perhaps, for swimming—I was a good swimmer and worked hard to receive my Red Cross lifeguard badge. Other than swimming, however, sports seemed difficult for me. I wasn't one to run the race and complete it. I rarely played an entire game of volleyball without growing weary and quitting before the end of the game.

I look at Hebrews 11listing the heroes of the faith and wonder if that type of endurance could be found in my own heart. They had all been heirs to the promise of God, yet they were mocked, imprisoned, stoned, sawn asunder, tempted, slain with the sword, destitute, afflicted, tormented, wandered in deserts and in mountains, etc. What a life for a hero, for one who had been regarded as one of the 'great cloud of witnesses' (Hebrews 12:1) who had walked this life leaving behind a legacy worthy of inclusion in the Word of God.

When I read of what these saints endured for the sake of the faith, I cringe at my own inability to endure physical challenges or my moaning and groaning because things don't go quite the way I want or expect.

"And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise" (Hebrews 11:39)

Endurance is more than a physical challenge. It's a spiritual discipline, and not an easy one at that. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 endured to the end, many of them not ever receiving the manifestation of the promises of God in their own lifetimes. Yet, they persevered. They endured.

We don't know when God intends to fulfill His promises to us. One would hope to see God move in our lifetimes. Yet, many of these men and women who are hailed for having great faith never wavered in their commitment although they went to their grave without having received those things God had personally promised. They never wavered. They didn't doubt. They endured.

God's promises, according to the Word, are "yes and amen" (1 Corinthians 1:20). He has a perfect timetable for every promise He has made to the Church and to us personally. When God makes a promise, He keeps that promise. His promises may even span the time beyond our lives, but that doesn't mean His promises aren't true.

Do we have the enduring faith like the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11? Consider this to be our challenge … to develop strong faith, not in the manifestation of the promise, but in the One who promised. When God says He'll do something, it's as good as done.

Develop enduring faith. It's the type of faith that pleases God and glorifies Him as the true Promise-Keeper.

Father, there are times I struggle with enduring faith. I grow weary of waiting for Your promise to be manifest in my life. Forgive me. Teach me, Lord, to trust You so the legacy I leave behind when I die will be like those in Hebrews 11 who, "having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise" yet had true enduring faith. In Jesus' precious name, amen.

© Jan Ross
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Consider the Cost

"For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost." (Matthew 18:11)

The purpose of Christ's mission on this earth was to save that which was lost, to bring us back into relationship with our Creator, to restore us, to reinstate us, and to put us on the right path to eternal life. His was a mission of reconciliation, of seeking out those who are lost and reconciling them to the Father. He laid down His life for us. He risked it all so we would have it all, an eternal inheritance (Ephesians 1:11).

If you would take but a few moments to consider what price was paid for our inheritance, the concept of total self-sacrifice – a glimpse of God's immeasurable love toward us can be seen. Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:18-19 is that we "may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God."

Consider the greatness of His love today; you'll find yourself lost in its overwhelming greatness. We truly serve an awesome God. A holy God. The Most High God. There is none like Him.

Father, as I contemplate the love You have shown me by seeking me out to save me, I am overwhelmed with emotion. I realize that I couldn't deserve such a display of love, but am ever so grateful for Your gift of salvation today and every day. I'm so glad You gave Your all to save me from the path of destruction I was on. How can I ever thank You enough? Truly there are no words to express my gratitude. I love you, amen!

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

© Jan Ross
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No In-Between

"I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15-16)

According to today's scripture, "half-way" just won't get it! It's either all or nothing. The "in-between", in fact, is abominable or spewable.

Everywhere we go we see people who are not committed to anything. It is almost an epidemic. People will not (for various reasons) commit to much at all, not to their families (look at divorce rates), and not to God Himself. In essence, if it is going to cost them something personally, people find it hard to make any type of true, lasting commitment.

Commitment is the vehicle by which we live our Christian life. Commitment is not half-way, it's not lukewarm. Commitment is giving of oneself wholly and completely to God and His service, not sometimes, or every once in a while. Commitment is all; it's jumping in with both feet with nothing held back. Commitment is being a Christian in every area of our lives, not just on Sunday, not just when we're with other Christians, not just when we feel like it. Commitment is being a Christian ALL the time.

The lukewarm, non-committed Christian is, in God's own words, not pleasing to Him at all. An abomination . . . spewable.

If you're not a committed Christian, sold out and giving ALL of yourself to Him and to His service, please take time today to search your heart. Confess your sins of lukewarmness and make a commitment, a REAL and lasting commitment to serve Him with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. He is worthy of all we can give, and so much more.

Father, thank you, Lord, for showing me what is important to You. Father, please help me to be "hot" at all times, not compromising, and always committed. Lord, I love you and truly desire to serve You all the days of my life in a manner that is pleasing to You regardless of what it costs me personally and always for your glory, Amen.

"Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD. And the people did according to this promise." (Nehemiah 5:13)

© Jan Ross
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Simple Faith

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (Hebrews 11:6)

The simplicity of faith has suddenly become the focus of my meditation ~ accepting God's Word at face value, believing it with my whole heart, and acting on it fully expecting Him to do the very thing He said He would do.

Simple faith understands that God cannot lie and He will ALWAYS do what He says He will do.

Simple faith declares that the Word of God is not only alive and at work in our lives but it believes with expectancy and without doubt.

Simple faith understands that God is not pleased with anything less than faith.

Simple faith refuses to acknowledge doubt in God's ability to perform His Word.

Simple faith simply believes.

I met a woman in Kenya who understood the simplicity of faith to an extent I never before had considered. She simply accepted God's Word at face value and totally expected it to work on her behalf. Her faith was not only "simple" but it was pure, unwavering, and lacking any element of doubt. If God said it, that settled it. Although this woman lived in conditions that would cause most of us to doubt her understanding of the abundant life we seem intent on chasing after, she glowed from the inside out as she walked in simple faith, trusting God because He said He would do certain things for her. This precious woman taught me much as I watched her life, as I saw her children, and as I saw the manifestation of what she believed as God performed His Word in her life time and time again.

All too often we complicate the Word of God by mixing it with our understanding and circumstances, trying to figure out how it fits within the framework of our own ability to comprehend it. But I feel challenged to become like this precious Kenyan woman who walked in the simplicity of faith and saw the hand of God move in her life again and again and again.

If God promises He will do something, He will do it. If His Word states something as truth, it is truth. All He asks of us is to believe Him, without doubt and without question. And, when we do, nothing can stand in the way of receiving all that He says He will do because simple faith pleases God.

Father, forgive me for complicating the simplicity of faith. Lord, help me to simply believe You and to take Your Word at face value with a determined heart to believe and not doubt. Lord, help me to live by simple faith, full of expectation and void of any doubt or unbelief. Be glorified, my precious Lord, and let Your glory be seen in the lives of those who dare to walk in simple faith. Amen and Amen!

"Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints." (Jude 3)

© Jan Ross
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Sign of the Times

"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

A sign of the times!

You can read through today's verses and see these things everywhere you look. This world has become worshippers of self. Anything that caters to the flesh (the carnal nature of man) is being exalted, promoted, condoned, and dismissed as no concern of ours.

As Christians we must wake up. We've got to stand against the spirit of the age by living a life holy and sanctified unto God. No, it doesn't come easy or without a price. It's living a life of sacrifice, giving up what caters to the flesh to gain an eternal reward.

First, we need to sanctify our lives. Take a good look at what grabs our attention and consumes our time. Are our priorities in order? Are we compromising by allowing ungodly habits and lifestyles to continue? Is God the reason for every breath we take? In other words, we need to do a spiritual house-cleaning and turn away from anything that would make us appear to be lovers of self more than lovers of God.

Next, we need to sanctify our homes, guard what comes in through the door, through the radio, through the mail, through the television, through the internet. We have a responsibility. We must take it seriously; ignoring it won't make it go away. If we cannot control what is allowed in by the television, unplug it or get rid of it and the same rule applies to the radio, the internet, etc. The Lord holds us responsible for what enters our homes. Does anything gain entrance that would make us appear to be lovers of self more than lovers of God?

Living a sanctified life, a life set apart to God, is needed now more than ever. The Psalmist declared that he wouldn't offer anything to God that cost him nothing. If we are to offer our lives to Him totally and completely, we must be prepared for the cost. The cost is living a life holy and sanctified unto Him!

Father, I look at my life and see so many areas where I have compromised and allowed pleasure to dictate my behavior. Lord, I offer myself to You once again. Cleanse me, purge me, purify me with Your refining fire. Just as the Hebrew children cleansed all leaven from their homes (leaven representing sin), Father help me to cleanse all ungodliness from my heart, my home, and live a life sanctified unto You. I love You, Lord! Amen!

"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:23)

© Jan Ross
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Who Can Comprehend?

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." (Isaiah 65:24)

What mortal mind can begin to comprehend the ways of our Lord? He has no bounds; there is no limit to His understanding and knowledge. There is no place He hasn't been or anything He hasn't considered. He knows all . . . past, present and future.

That's an interesting thought. He knows everything past, present and future. Some would want to attribute this type of time-transcending knowledge to those with psychic powers, the enemy's counterfeit for the omniscience and omnipresence of the Most High God.

God is eternal, not bound by segments of time. God is omnipresent; He exists everywhere at all times, including our past, our present, and our future. He's present in yesterday (He knew us personally before we were born). He's present in today (He has personal knowledge of or a personal relationship with us today). AND He's present in tomorrow (He's already there in our tomorrow as He is not constrained by time).

So, when the Lord says, "before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" we know that He has already heard the call and seen the need before we even knew it existed. It's true. "Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." (Matthew 6:8)

Let faith arise in your hearts. There is no situation you can face of which He is not aware and in which He has not already intervened. He has eternity in the palm of His hands, hallelujah!

Father, You are more wonderful and glorious and Your ways are so much higher and awesome than I had ever imagined. Lord, each day as I read Your Word and I meditate on You I see a greater depth of Who You are than I had ever seen before. Lord, thank You for loving me so much that You would make provision for my needs before I even realize I have them. You are truly amazing to me and Your love and provision is overwhelming and humbling. All I can say is, "Thank You, Lord!" Amen.

"But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me." (Psalm 66:19-20)

© Jan Ross
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