Journey to Faith

Journey to Faith
Follow your own path

Saturday, October 31, 2009

When Pressures Overwhelm

It's a busy time of year. The holidays are fast upon us. Fears of swine flu attacks loom in the background. Perhaps you are wondering how you are going to pay for Christmas presents this year.

When I am feeling overwhelmed by the cares of this world, it is time to sit back, relax, and retreat. I get away from everything, get quiet and make more time to spend with God. He is our Good Shepherd and He wants to lead us into paths of righteousness and beside still waters (Ps. 23). It's up to us if we want to follow.

So when the pressures of life begin to overwhelm you, take a breath. Say a prayer and remember that God is still in control and that He does want the best for you. Make time to hear His still small voice. Jesus never leaves us or forsakes us and He is always a friend we can turn to.

Have a great weekend and remember -- keep looking up!

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Answers Come from the Most Unexpected Places

This past week, I have been dealing with a serious issue I didn't know how to handle. I've been fasting, praying, and seeking God. I even went to a spiritual retreat at my church this weekend. Still no clue. As I sorted through my mail from saturday, I noticed a postcard from a Christian organization I support. It was interesting timing, because I don't hear from them very often. The pastor had written a verse from Haggai,a short 2 chapter book near the end of the Old Testament.

Curious, I looked up the verse, Haggai 2:18-19. As I read the intro and the themes describing what the chapter was about, God revealed the answer to my dilemma.

Amazed by the ways God uses to answer prayers and in awe of His faithfulness and love for me, I had to share this with you, dear friends. Be encouraged with your unanswered prayers. When we seek His face, and clear our minds and our schedules to spend time with Him, He is faithful to answer. Share with us how God has answered your prayers in unexpected ways.

"Seek and ye shall find. Knock and the door shall be opened." (Matthew 7:7)

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

What to do when you don't know what to do

Ever feel like you aren't sure what God is trying to say to you? Maybe it's a decision about a job, a relationship, or perhaps a restless spirit that wakes you up in the middle of the night and you're not sure why.

Four simple steps I use to hear God's still small voice.
1. Get quiet - turn off the tv, radio, ipod, step away from the internet, get a good night's rest, clear the thoughts out of my mind, meditate
2. Get centered - take a step back from my emotions, calm my mind and body, make time to journal my thoughts and feelings;listen to some praise and worship music, sing to refocus on God and His might power
3. Listen - read God's word, talk to other mature Christians
4. Wait - God is faithful to reveal what He is trying to say.You will know without a doubt when you have heard from God. Your spirit will calm down instantly and you will know what to do.

What do you do to hear what God is trying to say to you? Drop me a note and let me know how you have learned to hear from God. He is always speaking so have faith. We are the ones who need to learn to listen. James 1:19 says "Be quick to listen slow to speak, and slow to get angry." This week let's apply this verse and see the difference it makes.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

God is in the little things

God is working everyday all around us. He provides the parking space you need. He nudges the friend to call you when you're having a rough day. When I can't explain "coincidences" or when things miraculously work out, I acknowledge "That's God working!"

Have you noticed God working in the small things in your life? Share with us how God has shown up.

This week look for signs of God at work, and when you do, be sure to tell him "Thank you!" You will be amazed!