How Does God Speak? – Part 3

God Speaks Through the Holy Spirit

by Jan Cox

I knew that as I grew closer to God, studying His word, praying and giving my focus to Him that I would hear Him when He called.

A few Sundays ago after our church service I found that I could put into practice much of what I had learned both in the service and at my writers’ conference.

“Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you” (Hosea 10:12 NIV).

I wrote the following at my blog,  Jan Cox A Better Way.

“I know that seeking His face is the surest way to begin. I know that I need to be in constant communication with Him to hear the Holy Spirit encourage but also discipline; to listen carefully; to proceed when the light is green; but keep a sharp look both left and right before I go ahead.”

On that Sunday God orchestrated to have me alone in the parking lot with someone I had not spoken with in five years. We had seen each other, but there had been a rift between us. I had forgiven her, through Jesus, in my heart but we had not reconciled.

I smiled at her and walked to my vehicle.

I heard God say, “Go back and talk.”

A Holy Spirit Nudge?

I did not hesitate. I knew He had worked it out. I had peace in my heart.

I turned and went back and we had a relaxed, wonderful chat. God blasted the barrier. Reconciled.

Then I read in Oswald Chambers:

“If you debate for a second when God has spoken, it is all up. Never begin to say – “Well, I wonder if He did speak?” Be reckless immediately, fling it all out on Him. You do not know when His voice will come, but whenever the realization of God comes in the faintest way imaginable, recklessly abandon. It is only by abandon that you recognize Him. You will only realize His voice more clearly by recklessness” (Oswald Chambers, June 18).

So in the space of one week God spoke clearly to me, three different ways: His Word, prayer and the Holy Spirit.

And more importantly,

I listened.

Prayer:

Thank You, Lord, for knowing me so well. Thank You for being there, leading and guiding me. Thank You for your unending love. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

My Gratitude List continues as I count to 2000.

• daughter’s help and great ideas for vacation Bible school – VIBE
• great dinner for 18 and we held it outside
• watching grandbaby soothe himself to sleep babbling with his eyes closed
• loons on the lake
• rereading my journals from February

• Proverbs 13:22 from the Message: “A good life gets passed on to the grandchildren.”
• “my soul find rest in God alone.” Psalm 62:1
• Hubby helping me set up the VIBE (VBS) for this week
• another volunteer
• more children registering – we hit 23

• how excited my daughter is to be teaching JKSK in her own city in the fall
• beautiful photos by Bill Weaver – especially a butterfly

Butterfly by Bill Weaver

• early morning fog – with the sun peeking through
• boating in the rain – actually is was interesting
• sermon – What is Community?

• happy smiles of over 20 kids at VIBE
• grandkids are here
• singing and dancing with the kids
• tired cranky grandkids – are put down for naps – whew!
• a loving hubby who just keeps supporting me and all my endeavours

• wonderful volunteers – so appreciated
• God – who keeps me going through my tiredness

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan has completed a children’s book called Tadeo Turtle. She is the watercolour illustrator. Word Alive will be publishing this story and it will be available later this summer. See more about Tadeo at Jan’s Website.

by Kimberley Payne (reprinted with permission)

by T. L. Wiens

Lamb by T.L. Wiens

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 KJV).

It’s been a hard month. So many things are going on that aren’t part of the norm in our lives. One of our “out of the norm” events was a little orphan lamb that came into our lives.

The other day Lamby was jumping around my feet. Slowly he got braver, ventured further away and then made an extra big leap into the tall grass beside the road. He landed with a thump, not having realized he was getting in deeper than he thought. The bleating followed. I picked him up and held him in my arms until he calmed down. Then I set him back on his feet. He wobbled for a bit and then scampered off, this time staying away from the tall grass.

It reminded so much of the way we as humans get ourselves into messes. One moment, we’re beside the still waters and the next, we’re floundering in the valleys of the shadow of death. We bleat for help or rather send up a prayer. It’s then that our shepherd, Jesus Christ, lifts us into His arms and cradles us close.

When I pick up Lamby, he crosses his front legs and relaxes so completely. I know when I cry to my Shepherd, that’s where He puts me as I navigate life’s obstacles.

Tammy Wiens

Tammy lives in Saskatchewan with her husband. They have four children. She enjoys gardening, walks along the beach and being on the farm. She has a passion for her faith, studying the Bible and prayer.

She has published two books; Where a Little Rain Comes Down and Making the Bitter Sweet. A short story, “May’s First Christmas” appeared in Christmas Chaos, a collection of stories about Christmas experiences that don’t make the fronts of Christmas cards. “Careful What You Whisper” is another short story about Tammy’s experiences after breaking her back. It can be found in A Second Cup of Hot Apple Cider. Visit T. L. Wiens for more information about Tammy’s books and workshops.

God Speaks Through Prayer

by Jan Cox

 “I know you by name …” (Exodus 33:12 NIV)

Last week I talked about how I hear God speak through the Scriptures and words of others.

This week I want to talk about how I hear God through prayer.

While attending a writers’ conference, one of my prayers had been that our attendees would be woken early each morning so they could attend the worship time at 8am. I had noticed other years that worship time, while wonderful, was not attended as fully as could be possible.

As I headed toward the prayer room around 6:55 am I prayed a special prayer for my friend, Kimberley, that she would be awakened to attend the worship service. For nine years she had slept in.

I took two steps more towards the door of the sanctuary and the door opened wide.

Out popped my friend, Kimberley, with a wide grin on her face as she said, “Hey, Jan!”.

I am sure she will recall the expression on my face for years to come. Startled, excited and totally mesmerized with her appearance, I stumbled the rest of the way to the building.

I choked out my words to her, “You won’t believe this. I just finished a small prayer of hope that you would attend worship this morning. And God brings you to prayer time too!”

God had already known the desire of my heart and heard my prayer before I had spoken it.

I know He works behind the scenes and I know He figures out lots of things before I have a chance to do anything. But this was wildly wonderful.

Kim wrote about the experience from her point of view at her blog, Return Home and Tell.

And to top off the morning, besides a spirit-filled prayer time and worship time, God filled the sanctuary with worshippers.

Write! Canada – we worship You O Lord.

Terry Pitts and I were behind the sound and video booth. But we worshipped with our hearts as well.

“He knows my name;
He knows my every thought;
He sees each tear that falls
and He hears me when I call.”

Prayer:

Father, we thank You for the privilege of speaking to You – through our words, our thoughts and our whole beings. Continue to teach us to listen to you as well. Let this be a two-way conversation. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

I love those words and that song. Here is He Knows My Name sung by Paul Baloche  

Have you experienced a time when God knew the desire of your heart? How have you heard God?

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

Here is my Gratitude List for this week. I am counting to 2000

• mother deer and 2 fawn outside church windows while at Bible study
• great last lesson on Moving From Fear to Freedom – Ghosts of our pasts
• little chipmunk who is curious and comes to our patio door
• Isaiah 8:13 “Do not fear anything except the LORD almighty. He also is the Holy One. If you fear Him, you need fear nothing else.”
• words at night from God – “Go for it. Take a risk. Go with Word Alive and publish Tadeo Turtle.”

• sitting on the deck reading a book
• son and grandkids here for the weekend
• listening to grandson (6), who is in Kindergarten, reading my book, Tadeo Turtle
• going shopping with granddaughter to get a wading pool
• boating with all of them

• watching my son wakeboard and seeing his smile
• watching grandchildren laugh and play together
• a deer crossing the road in town after church – clip, clop
• a nap after they all went home
• getting Twitter up for Under the Cover of Prayer – @UTCOP

• preparing for VIBE – Vacation Bible school – over 20 registered
• credit card number nabbed – but TD caught it
• interesting workshop on adoption – Jewels for Jesus
• soaking in a hot tub during a sprinkling rain and a rainbow came out
• listening for God – STOPPING long enough

• what is the difference between Belief and Faith? Is it belief is seen and faith is unseen?
• Made a new website – www.janiscox.com
• early morning stillness
• the blue sheen on a crow’s head
• the way crows bob their heads when they walk like the doves in Arizona
• grandbaby’s smile and chuckles (3 months old)

• daughter’s hugs
• son’s help
• husband’s support
• deer on the front lawn
• praying for others

by Rose Harmer

Listen by Jan Cox

As I was doing some writing on my computer, I wondered about meeting anyone in the deserted campground we were in that evening, and then I heard a knock on the door.  It was the camp hostess with a coupon for an extra night stay, so I invited her in for a visit.

Soon I was explaining a book I’m writing on “Listening”, listening to the still, small voice of God speak to our minds and hearts.  Right away she was interested to read some of the entries I’ve made over the years as I’ve heard God speak to me when I prayed and then listened.

We had a wonderful conversation sharing our stories of life and walking with God.  After about twenty minutes of an engaging connection, she left with an inspiration to draw closer to God and for her also to listen to the voice of God speak in her own life.  Again I discovered God will bring the people he wants into our lives, and that God can use us to touch, hear and talk to others.

Here is an entry I made one morning some time ago as I listened to God in the hush and quiet of the dawn:

Yes, my child, I love to give to you.
I love all my children everywhere,
and so many perceive lack and need.

If only all could see the abundance and wealth all around them.
Please live so others can see my love and compassion,
my offers of help.
I realize this doesn’t come easy for you.
I want you to know I fully understand your feelings,
emotions and thoughts of limitation.

I left the glories of heaven
to be born as a baby in Bethlehem
to experience humanity’s frailty,
to be obedient to my Father
and to rise above it all –
overcoming every situation, even death
so you can do the same.

Love richly and deeply
and give to my world.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer

Rose was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, and speaks on subjects related to marriage, family and mental health.  Her travels take her throughout North America and she winters in Cape Coral, Florida.  Her published words include a short biography in Clayton’s Kids (2009) and a column entitled “Listening” which will be part of a forth-coming book.  Contact Rose.

3 Ways God Has Spoken to Me – part 1

by Jan Cox

This week was filled with surprises. Three distinct times I have heard God speak to me.

Today is Week 1 of How Does God Speak?

God Speaks Through His Words

Seeds – by Ramona Furst

The first time I heard Him came from a card given to me by a friend. The cover pictured a hand spade filled with seeds. Inside were these words:

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

And the Scripture given inside the card said:

“Sow righteousness for yourselves,
reap the fruit of unfailing love,
and break up your unplowed ground;
for it is time to seek the Lord,
until he comes
and showers his righteousness on you.” (Hosea 10:12 NIV)

God continued in the next few days to plant seeds in me and also to inspire me to continue to write for Him – thereby planting seeds in my readers.

And the word seed seemed to come from many directions. In conversation I would hear the word seed, sow, plant – wow!

Then my friend gave me my own Scripture from the Psalms:

 ”I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.” (Psalm 119:32 NIV)

Path by Kimberley Payne

The word path stood out. Following the path that God sets before me – not deviating from the path but walking straight and sure.

To top off my week, the sermon on Sunday was about SEEDS and PATH. Could that be any clearer?

I LISTENED

What words have you heard from God this week? Pick up your Bible, start to read – what jumps out at you. Stop and listen. God could be speaking to you.

This song by MercyMe says the same: “Word of God Speak”

Prayer:

Father, we thank You for the Word. We thank you that you talk to us through the words in the Bible and the words of others. We thank you for confirmation of those words. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

My Gratitude List for this week – counting to 2000 – I am at 1495

• meeting people in our neighbourhood on our walks – being offered seeds to put in our ditch to make it prettier
• little bird bathing on the porch – so cute
• “There is no condition in life in which we cannot abide in Jesus” (Oswald Chambers, June 12).
• being filled with anticipation of what God has in store for Write! Canada

• bouncing grandbaby in bouncer chair and watch him fall asleep
• reading the Bible to grandbaby while he sat in my arms
• my friend okay to travel with me after bad reaction to shots for going overseas
• books didn’t arrive in time for the conference – but I sold 5 anyway!
• beautiful weather for the conference

• reconnecting with writing friends
• 7 am prayer time
• 8 am worship time – awesome group leading worship
• my continuing class with Thomas Umstaddt from Author Media
• seeing and hearing Jean Little, children’s author

• being asked for prayer
• encouragement
• great workshop with Marla Konrad
• great workshop with my friend and mission partner, Grace Fox
• insight

• given a personal Scripture – Psalm 119:32
• my friend coming to early morning prayer time – first time in 10 years coming to the conference
• new friends
• a Happy Fathers’ Day – I let him “be” for the day
• remembering little things at conference – red cardinal on the porch, beautiful gardens

• being aware of the seeds that God is planting all around and in me
• hearing His voice, stepping out and connecting with someone with whom there had been a barrier
• the reading Oswald Chambers about being reckless – stepping out
• many ideas – sometimes too many but exciting
• “the real business of your life as a saved soul is intercessory prayer” (Oswald Chambers, June 20 )

• “Word of God speak” by MercyMe
• awesome weather for a boat ride (forgot my camera) – we saw an adorable duck family – ducklings so tiny trying to keep up to Mom

How to Pray and the Best Way to Work

by Ann Voskamp

A life could really be full of all the best things:

Worried-full for nothing, thank-full for everything, prayer-full in all things.

…

“True, whole prayer is nothing but love,” offered St. Augustine. Is the only reason we don’t really pray is because we really don’t love? If one’s not praying regularly, it’s only because something else is regularly loved more than God.

Sometimes weeds go deep. I wrestle mine and there’s a taproot: Prayer becomes what we live when we want to get hold of God, not just get a hold of what we want. Yes. I want to parade happy too.

And real prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind but about finding God’s heart — and letting His heart change my mind.

Is this why God urges us to pray without ceasing? We need to pray without ceasing — because it’s the only way to live in communion. Without prayer, how can our life and His will have anything in common? Without prayer, we have nothing in common with God. Without prayer — we have no fellowship, no relationship, no worship. But when we enter into prayer, He enters into our thoughts and then we have much in common and the conversation never ends and we have our heart’s real desire — communion with Christ.

Please read the whole post.

Thank you Ann for your wonderful spirit-filled words. I love the line.

“If one’s not praying regularly, it’s only because something else is regularly loved more than God.”

Whew – we really have to think about that. What a challenge!

by Laura Hodges Poole  (reprinted with permission)

I am reposting from Inscribe Online where I am part of a team of writers.

My Inbox

by Jan Cox

My Inbox

I am learning more and more to trust in God. I have written many posts this year on the “me” factor and how it inhibits my growth with God. Relying on “me” can be frustrating and exhausting.

RELYING ON GOD IS FREEING

If I look at my Inbox, I see too much. I panic and say “I can’t do all that!”

But if I look to God, He says, “I am here. Look to me and not to your Inbox.”

Then I can focus on Him. He helps me calmly DO one task at a time. And they all get done – miraculously.

Oswald Chambers says:

“It is much easier to Do something than to trust God. We mistake panic for inspiration. That is why there are so few fellow workers WITH God and so many workers FOR Him” (June 1). (emphasis mine)

Oswald asks:

“Am I quite sure that God will do what I cannot do?” (June 1).

Here is what Scripture says:

“I can do ALL things in Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV).

This all ties in with a Bible study I am leading with a group of women. Grace Fox has written a study called, Moving From Fear to Freedom: A Woman to Woman Conversation. We are learning strategies to push past our fears and blocks. One strategy stressed is:

FOCUS ON GOD

As I spend more time with God, praying and studying His Word, He is teaching me that:

“Yes, I am quite sure that God will do what I cannot do.”

Oswald Chambers says:

“The degree of panic is the degree of lack of personal spiritual experience” (June 1).

Tough statements.

I will panic… and when I do, I remind myself, “STOP! Look to God.”

Panic cannot live in the same place as God. “Go to the right place. Choose God.”

Prayer:
May all of us, Lord, look to You – You alone. You can do ALL things because Christ can give us the strength. Help me to continue marching towards complete and utter trust in You. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

My Gratitude list for this week – shortened because I head out for the conference on Tuesday. I am at 1464

• sleeping very well
• beautiful sunshine for Mom’s committal service (forecasters called for rain – 90%)
• cousins who drove from far away to attend the service
• everything went well for the service – lovely flowers, and Canadian flags to commemorate DDay

• chatting and catching up in a restaurant before heading home
• emails of my cousins – now we can connect
• seeing a license plate in front of us with my maiden name  - Mom’s name (don’t know if legal to print it – but I took a picture) – miracle

• watching grandkids in the pool
• grandpa and granddaughter play another game of Trouble
• lovely dinner before our drive back home
• Sunday service – 100th anniversary of our church’s sanctuary
• bagpipes greeted us

• beautiful canopy with balloons

• lots and lots of people
• excitement of upcoming Write!Canada conference
• grandnephew fell off porch; went to hospital with a concussion but after cookie and ice cream is fine and going home

by Mary Haskett

There are times when we can be weighed down with situations in our lives, loved ones who are ill, wayward children or financial problems; and many other troubles that may come upon us. The thought is coming to me concerning Horatio Spafford the man who lost his family in a storm at sea and upon hearing the news immediately entered into His presence and there found comfort in it. He took up his pen and wrote that most moving of hymns, “It Is Well with My Soul.”

Like the sons of Korah who wrote in Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength an ever- present help in trouble,” Horatio Spafford found refuge from the terrible storm that had assailed him.

I have many praying friends, friends who embrace this truth. We phone or text each other with situations that need to be taken to the Father and we pray immediately. How comforting to know, because God is omnipresent and omniscient, we can enter into His presence anytime.  We don’t have to wait in line. Our God waits for us to come to Him, He longs for us to commune with Him, and He listens and acts on our behalf. What an awesome thought. What an awesome God.

Prayer: Our most Dear and Gracious God, when troubles hit, may we remember that You are waiting for us to come to You, that You long for us to cast our burdens at Your feet. Thank you that You are always, always there for us. Praise Your Holy name. Amen

Here is a video of “It is Well with my Soul”. This is by Chris Rice.

Mary Haskett

Mary is a writer and speaker. Since becoming a Christian she has served as Director of Women’s ministries, Singles Fellowship, counseling and prayer.

She is a member of The The Word Guild. and Inscribe Christian Writers’ Fellowship. Mary is the founder of Ready Writers, London

Her book Reverend Mother’s Daughter was a finalist in the 2008 Word Guild of Canada Awards and won an IPPY award in the states. Her second book Because We Prayed was released last year.  She has had many articles published and  has been a regular contributor to the community publication Christian Life in London. You can visit her on her website.

by Brenda Wood

Because I’m a recent widow, people always ask how I’m doing. Lately, I’ve started to say, “I am good because God is good”.

Someone cries, “I don’t know how you do it”.

I tell them I’m just showing up for service, because that’s all I’m doing.

It is hard to be alone, without my love of almost 50 years. I miss Ron every day.

But tell me, what are you going through? Isn’t God meeting you in the midst of it? Aren’t you able to bear the loss, the pain, the difficulty? Of course you are because that is what God does. He comes along side. I can stand in the midst of my grief because God is faithful. He answers my prayers and the prayers of those who pray for me

Oh wouldn’t we like to wallow in self-pity? We could give into our feelings.  Some days we feel like we’ve made no progress at all. It seems that we’re swimming in noodles. But we know what to do when that happens.

“Keep awake and watch and pray [constantly], that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mark 14:38 AMP).

God always hears our heart cries and helps us stand for one more minute, one more hour, and one more day. All we have to do is show up for service.

The Bible doesn’t say much about noodles but it does tell us what direction to swim.

“Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, It is the Lord! Simon Peter, hearing him say that it was the Lord, put (girded) on his upper garment (his fisherman’s coat, his outer tunic)–for he was stripped [for work]–and sprang into the sea” (John 21:7 AMP).

Swimming in noodles? What does it matter as long as we swim toward Him?

Prayer: Lord, give us the strength to swim through everything, even noodles, as long as it leads us to you. For Christ’s sake. Amen.

Brenda J. Wood

A popular motivational speaker, Brenda, of Barrie, Ontario is known for her common sense wisdom, sense of humour and quirky comments. Brenda especially enjoys speaking at women’s retreats and conferences, community events, Mops, World Day of Prayer, and Stonecroft Ministries.

A prolific author, her current books include:

The Big Red Chair: a children’s book dealing with the loss of a grandparent.
Meeting Myself: Snippets from a Fractured Mind:  the author’s recovery from abuse and eating disorders.
Hearts Under Construction: A motivational cookbook designed to feed both body and soul
Heartfelt: 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living.
God, Gluttony and You: a Bible Study dealing with our relationship to food.
Read more at:
http://heartfeltdevotionals.wordpress.com
facebook – www.facebook.com/brendawoodspeaker

by Jan Cox 

Haunted by God

“God-friendship is for God-worshipers; They are the ones he confides in. If I keep my eyes on God, I won’t trip over my own feet” (Psalm 25:14-15 The Message).

As I thought over this passage it reminded me of the story of Peter walking out to meet Jesus – on the water. Yes, he walked on the water. Why? Because his focus was Jesus, and Him alone. When did he falter? When he looked down at the water.

When I choose to look at circumstances or happenings around me, instead of God – I can be swept downstream. I can lose my footing; stumble; trip; fall.

When I choose to focus on God – thanking Him, counting His blessings, laughing, enjoying little things – there is peace in my soul.

“The whole of our life inside and out is to be absolutely haunted by the presence of God” (Oswald Chambers, June 2).

That’s why I continue to count the gifts that God gives me – each day, I write down one or two or sometimes more, gifts with which God has blessed me.

That is my focus – SEEING Him.

Ann Voskamp took the dare to count to 1000 in her book One Thousand Gifts. I am now counting to 2000. Counting these gifts helps me focus on GOD – leading me closer to being haunted by Him.

“If we are haunted by God, nothing else can get in, no cares, no tribulation, no anxieties. … To be haunted by God is to have an effective barricade against all the onslaughts of the enemy” (Oswald Chambers, June 2).

Counting Gifts

                        Thanking Him

                                                Praising Him

All these things lead to FOCUSING on God.

I want to be HAUNTED by God.

Do you?

“Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him!” (Philippians 4:4-5, The Message).

Continuing to count the gifts – counting to 2000; I am at 1451

• buying plants for pots – yellows, purples and whites (deer proof?? we’ll see)
• inspiration for InscribeOnline post
• rain for the farmers – all day (can’t plant yet)
• local home show – meeting everyone from town
• reacquaintance with a wonderful prayer-filled believer

• sunshine this morning
• remembering to focus on God
• sweet granddaughter hugs
• sweet grandson smiles and chats
• watching my daughter do up her daughter’s hair for dance recital

Dance Recital Hairdo

• putting slippers on my granddaughter at recital
• great recital
• wonderful dinner with family
• a friend who ran a beautiful UCW service at church
• rain again – but good for farmers

• getting ready for Write! Canada – I think I like promotion
• donations for VIBE coming in
• people willing to help with VIBE
• new sponsored child – Marie – from Wellington Orphanage in Sierre Leone

Marie

• Wellington Orphanage Sierra Leone – video
• a stop in the rain and I have time to finally pot the plants

One of My Pots

• call from son and they are coming up in a couple of weeks
• making stuffed turtles for conference
• remembering how to sew

• sewing machine worked
• seeing a deer on our walk – very close to roadside but no camera
• Snowball resting after a hard day at play

Snowball Relaxing

• my happy mess

My Happy Mess

• Cleaning up my mess – husband is pleased
• finishing up details for Write!Canada
• planning Mom’s committal service for Saturday
• a great event put on by Women’s Day Together – Carol Kent
• another great study on looking at our fear of rejection from Moving From Fear to Freedom

Jan Cox

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan has completed a children’s book called Tadeo Turtle. She is the watercolour illustrator.

by Judith Lawrence

“Prayer is the art of presence. Where there is no wonder there is little depth of presence. The sense of wonder is one of the key sources of prayer. Wonder at the adventure of being here is one of the special qualities of humans.…Sometimes in humans profound wonder can only be expressed in silence” (John O’Donahue Eternal Echoes Page 195)

Some years ago I wrote a poem titled “Guest of the World”. I have included it below as I think it sums up the sense of wonder that we have been given as humans and the prayer of thanksgiving for all that the Creator has given us in this world.

Guest of the World

As a guest of the world I want to see all its beauty; when I return to heaven I will tell of the white purity of snow, the delicate pastels of spring blossoms, the deep blue of the summer sky, the flaming reds and golds of autumn.

As a guest of the world I want to hear all its sounds; when I return to heaven I will tell about the sound of ocean waves crashing to the shore, the song of birds, the baby’s cry, the howl of wolves, the eerie night song of the spring peepers.

As a guest of the world I want to savour all its tastes; when I return to heaven I will tell of the sweetness of honey, the refreshing tang of an orange and the sourness of lemon. I will describe the burning heat of chilli peppers and the juicy delight of grapes from the vine.

As a guest of the world I want to touch all its textures; when I return to heaven I will tell of the roughness of a tree’s bark, the velvet softness of a cat’s fur, the prickliness of a rose’s thorns, the sting of a nettle.

As a guest of the world I want to smell all its scents; when I return to my heavenly home I will tell of the heady perfume of lilacs, the warning odour of a skunk, the smokiness of a wood fire, the moist earth after rain.

When I return to heaven I will tell of the wonders of the earth and the many blessings I was given as its guest. And I will thank the Creator for such an exciting and marvellous place, where I learnt so many new things. And like all weary travellers, however kind the hosts and enchanting the country, I will be glad to be home and give thanks for my safe return.

© Judith Lawrence

Judith Lawrence

Judith Lawrence lives in Muskoka, Ontario, a land of lakes, forests, and wildlife. She began to write seriously when she was in her fifties and has written three non-fiction spiritual books. Judith has also written a book of mystical poetry and one of short stories; she writes a weekly blog about contemplation and records a podcast meditationmonthly.

by Stephanie Nickel

We love to spend time with certain people because they lift our spirits just by being in the same room. They give us wings.

And then there are others. Sometimes through no fault of their own, they weigh us down, piling heavy loads on our shoulders.

However, what would happen if we asked the Lord to teach us the benefit of being weighed down?

How should we pray when we’re soaring high? How should we pray when we are feeling earthbound?

Some people
Give us

Wings.

Others give us

Weights.

I prefer wings

However
I risk flying
High above
People and their problems
If I only use
My wings.

 If I don’t allow the weight
To preoccupy
But simply keep me
On Terra Firma
I can look around
See my fellow weight-bearers
Empathize

And perhaps
Help them become
Power lifters.

Hurray
For wings
And weights.

“…clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other…And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:12-14 NIV)

Stephanie Nickel

Stephanie is a wife of over 28 years and has three grown children. She is eclectically interested, to say the least. Among her current pursuits are co-authoring Deb Willows’ autobiography; freelance editing; and keeping up with a number of blogs. Stephanie is a member of The Word Guild and works on “Write! On,” the news bulletin for guild members. To read more of her poetry, visit Steph Nickel’s Eclectic Interests.

by Jan Cox 

I am not a perfectionist when it comes to making tea but I do know tea needs to steep before I pour and drink it.

To steep – “to soak in water or other liquid so as to extract its flavour or to soften it.”

As I sipped my tea today I thought about the steeping process and how it compared to my life and to my prayer life.

In my writing I try to let my ideas and thoughts settle in my mind and spirit, possibly before writing down my scattered thoughts (some writers say to write everything down but I like thinking and pondering first). Then I start putting my thoughts into the written word that will make sense to the reader (hopefully).

Even when I write for five minutes for Five-Minute Fridays with The Gyspy Mama, I confess that after I check the word of the week, I let it tumble around through my mind awhile before writing.

In my painting it is also true – I think of an idea; then I let pictures float through my mind before I feel ready to paint. When I do that it makes for a better painting.

In my prayer life I love early mornings. This is my time to get steeped in the Word; to pray and to think about God and His blessings.

And the actually act of praying – that is steeping my soul.

“But God’s not finished. He’s waiting around to be gracious to you.
He’s gathering strength to show mercy to you.
God takes the time to do everything right—everything.
Those who wait around for him are the lucky ones” (Isaiah 30:18 The Message).

All the thoughts in my head get mixed around with the Holy Spirit, Jesus and God. It is a joining of my mind with God – awesome.

As you know some types of teas take longer to steep – some as long as fifteen minutes. So we, too, need to wait on the right timing with God. He waits for us to be ready. Then He makes things happen. It is in His timing. Oswald Chambers says that:

“you will get to the place where there is no distance between the Father and His child because the Lord has made you one, and “in that day ye shall ask Me no question.”” (May 28).

A wonderful cup of tea – steeped for the right time – tastes wonderful. Prayers and time with God – steeped for the right time – peace, contentment, and trust.

Are you letting your prayers and your time with God be just right? Don’t rush God. He has the perfect timing. Your “prayer tea” will be perfect if you follow His instructions in waiting.

Just as an aside. The idea of steeped tea started in the middle of the night and worked around in my mind until I drank my early morning cup of tea. Hopefully I allowed enough time for my thoughts to steep and be full flavoured to make an interesting post.

My Gratitude List – counting to 2000. I am at 1421.

• learning that fear and praise cannot live together
• “prayer is not an exercise, it is the life” (Oswald Chambers, May 26).
• great drive for workshop for upcoming VIBE (our vacation Bible School)
• looking after my grandson at a wedding ceremony
• rocking him back to sleep (mmm good)
   

• understanding the awesomeness of Pentecost (sermon Part 1, sermon Part 2)
• listening to birds sing on our morning walk
• a few butterflies crossing my path
• reminding myself to slow down
• thinking how fascinating it is to talk to anyone in the world (mine was to B.C.)

• sweet message from my granddaughter left on answering machine
• summer weather in May – swimming in the lakes (Not me!)
• getting the Apple TV to stream a movie without pausing
• our 41st Anniversary
• more butterflies

• Wayne off to a native community on a fact finding mission to access their situation and see if our church can help
• ordered 5 more books from Shutterfly at a 40% discount
• watched Guy Chevreau 1st video sermon on prayer. “Self-directed or Spirit-led Prayer”

Jan Cox

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan has completed a children’s book called Tadeo Turtle. She is the watercolour illustrator.

by Janet Sketchley

In the Presence of My Enemies

by  Dulce de Leche (Reprinted with permission)

by Jan Cox 

It is easy to get petulant and plead to God to change my circumstances or the circumstances of others. But I know that life is not about ME. Oh – It is hard to get rid of ME.

Last Friday I wrote on my personal blog about the word “perspective”, linking to The Gypsy Mama.

As I thought more about this, I thought more about prayer and how we pray. What is my perspective when I pray?

Jesus prayed for us.

“that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21 NIV).

Jesus prayed for us to be one with God. How can I be one with God when I am thinking only about me? Or even when I am thinking about others?

If I am going to be one with God my perspective better be His and not mine.

“The purpose of God is not to answer our prayers, but by our prayers we come to discern the mind of God.” (Oswald Chambers May 22)

How we react in our circumstances either moves us closer or further away from God.

That is why I work on diminishing ME. The smaller me gives more room for God.

I like to think of the “whack a mole” game where you bash the mole when he pops up. Well each time I get in the way of what God is doing I need to whack that thought back down.

How are you doing in the “me” department? As you can see I am still chipping away at the Stodge.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to live a life of faith in You. Help me to grow closer to You, willing to let “me” go. Help me know Your mind and Your ways. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

I love the song It is the Cry of my Heart.

Here are the words and the video sung by Terry Butler. 

It is the cry of my heart
To follow You
It is the cry of my heart
To be close to You
It is the cry of my heart
To follow all of the days of my life

Teach me Your holy ways oh Lord
So I can walk in Your truth
Teach me Your holy ways oh Lord
And make me wholly devoted to You

Open my eyes so I can see
The wonderful things that You do
Open my heart up more and more
And make it wholly devoted to You

My Gratitude List – Counting to 2000 – I am at 1402

• conversation and dinner with friends
• still energy and 5 minutes to write at Five-Minute Fridays; My Blog
• going for first boat ride of the season on the Trent Canal

• gorgeous day – no clouds – and 25 degrees C.
• walks around the trailer park pushing grandbaby in a stroller
• Snowball sitting with strangers – lots and lots of dogs – she loved it

• babbling baby
• successful launch and pulling out of boat back out of water (not my strong point)
• I remained calm
• good exhaustion – once again

• great sermon on Ascension (“Ascencial” Truth, Part 1 and Part 2)
• talking about The Word Guild
• talking about Write! Canada
• making activities for new children’s book

One of my book’s activities

• almost finished children’s book
• lovely boat ride in awesome weather and fantastic break
• the greens of spring

• tea from Poland

• new scatter rugs for bathroom to keep my toes warm agains the cold of the new tile

• a perfect frame and matting for a painting
• getting story almost ready for printing
• on-line prayer with and for others
• first test publishing of my new children’s book
• Oh no, “Tommy Turtle” – name is taken

• thanks to hubby, I figured it out in time
• good customer service with Shutterfly – they cancelled the order
• relief – thank You, God
• finding a new name for turtle – Tadeo (TAHD-ay-OH)
• Tadeo means “praise” – Oh Lord, thank You.
• help from family copy editing story

• excitement of friends
• my hands picking weeds in the earth
• talking with young women at the pregnancy centre
• spending time with a friend
• meeting other community partners who care about others in our town

Jan Cox

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan is working on a couple children’s books in which she is also the watercolour illustrator.

by Janice Keats

It seems that faith sharing hasn’t gotten any easier over the years. Perhaps it is because of the ever-growing battle that we are up against. Many people are not interested perhaps but God’s power is still available to change lives. We alone do not have the ability or the power to change people’s hearts and minds but we can prayerfully intercede on behalf of others. God is attentive to the prayers of the righteous.

Roman 1:16 says:

“The Gospel is the power of God for the Salvation of everyone who believes.”

How good it is to spend private moments with God, especially when you are in complete stillness with Him. God expects His children to faithfully offer prayers and petitions. God is not only an answering prayer God, He is our most trusted friend, and He loves and disciplines us as His dearly loved children.

Our faith may weaken sometimes, but our prayers have great worth because God hears us. We must persevere in prayer so that we do not lose heart.

And in the book of Colossians we learn that we are to be devoted to prayer.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2).

When we pray we ought to believe and not doubt.

“Therefore I tell you whatever you ask for in prayer believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24).

As difficult as it may seem sometimes, we must not allow our faith to waiver, but to continue in Him and encourage one another under all circumstances.

Ephesians 6:18 says:

“And pray on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”

When Jesus walked among men, he would often spend time alone with God. He prayed for His disciples, He prayed for all believers, and He prayed for Himself. Sharing the ‘good news’ continues to be challenging, but we ought to recognize the opportunities that God places before us to share His amazing love and plan of Salvation.

Christian witnessing has the power to influence but God’s Word has the power to save.

Let’s continue to pray our heartfelt concerns. He is mighty to deliver and lift our burdens. Let us not be afraid to tell people that we are praying for them. We can do our job by allowing God to do His!

Thoughts to ponder:

Have you ever received an answer to pray almost immediately? Were you surprised?

Do you know of someone who has been praying the same prayer for years before it was answered? Describe that person’s faith.

Janice Keats

Janice is a freelance writer, and speaker. Her passion is developing and teaching workshops on various Biblical Studies, and planning ladies night out events. She is a certified lay Pastoral Counsellor and is presently employed in ministry. She has had several articles published in various local, provincial and national newspapers.

She is the author of, Poems of Inspiration and Occasion and, A Journey to the Heart of Evangelism. Future works include a devotional book and an audio book of her poems. She is married with three grown children, all of whom are accomplished musicians. Her twin daughters, known as The Keats, are country singers and her son is a recording engineer. Janice Keats; http://themasterspath.wordpress.com/

by Jan Cox

At our church we have a song we sing at the end of most services called “Go Now in Peace”.

That is so important – to remain at peace – even in the middle of a storm.

In a few weeks our little town will have the privilege to hear Carol Kent speak. Her story is heartbreaking but filled with grace.

“Carol and Gene Kent’s son, Jason, was a young man with a promising future. But one day, Carol and Gene received a phone call in the middle of the night—their only child had been arrested for murder. The Kents will share their heartbreaking story and reveal how, when seemingly insurmountable challenges crash into our lives, we can be transformed as we discover God at work in ways we never imagined.”

When I listened to her story it reminded me of Ann Voskamp’s book One Thousand Gifts and her word Eucharisteo – thanking God in all situations. Counting blessings – even the hard ones. That is what started me on counting gifts.

Carol’s story can be found on the Internet. Take time and listen.

Between a Rock and a Grace Place Carol Kent

Carol Kent’s Website

Then I read Oswald Chambers for May 8.

“The real meaning of Eternal Life is a life that can face anything it has to face without wavering.”

This story is proof of that statement.

Carol will be speaking in Haliburton on Wednesday, June 6 at 7 pm. All are welcome – men and women. It will be held at Lakeside Baptist Church on Park St. If you are interested, tickets can be ordered on line. Cost $10.00 per person. To Order.

If you are from out-of-town, bring a group to Haliburton. We have many lovely Bed and Breakfasts to choose from and a few motels.

Here are the words to the song we sing each Sunday.

Go now in peace, never be afraid
God will go with you each hour of ev’ry day
Go now in faith, steadfast, strong and true
Know God will guide you in all you do.

Go now in love, and show you believe.
Reach out to others so all the world can see.
God will there watching from above.
Go now in peace, in faith and in love.

Prayer:

Lord, we thank You for being with us in all circumstances. Even though we don’t know the reason for those circumstances we trust and believe that You do have a plan for us. During those times provide us with the comfort, strength and wisdom we need along with the peace that passes understanding. In the precious name of Jesus. AMEN.

Here is a video of Go Now in Peace

My Gratitude List – Counting to 2000. I am at 1333.

• A long soak in a hot tub with Epsom salts
• Buds appearing on bushes
• My IPOD for shopping, calendar, notes and email
• Thinking about a friend who died
• A wonderful clear sunny day for daughter to set up park model trailer

• Strength and peace to help daughter and son-in-law set up their trailer
• Nice welcoming and helpful neighbours in the trailer park
• Great dinner cooked on their new barbecue
• Walk with Wayne and Snowball in the park
• Spring buds on the trees

• Great sermon on gifts called Bodily Functions (part 1, part 2)
• Time to work on my new book
• Seeing one gift that I am an “encourager”
• Chatting with neighbours as I delivered the newsletters
• Peace amidst a disagreement with propane supplier

• Solutions
• Meeting friends while grocery shopping
• Bugs aren’t that bad yet
• Husband working hard on renovating our bathroom

Renovating the Bathroom

• Hot ginger tea with real ginger

• Time to paint! Hurrah.
• Being able to read, think and write
• Meeting wonderful young women at the Pregnancy Care Centre
• Another idea for a book
• Great afternoon working together with a volunteer

Here are other posts on Peace. A Circle of Protection. Into His Presence. Awakening.

Jan Cox

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan is working on a couple children’s books in which she is also the watercolour illustrator.

by Judith Lawrence

“Prayer is the activity of the soul. The nature of each soul is different. The eternal is related to each of us in a unique way.…The words we use to describe the holy are usually too nice and sweet. Sometimes, the Divine is awkward and contrary.…The prayer of the soul voices itself in each life differently.…No one knows what divine narrative God maybe writing with the crooked lines of someone’s struggles, misdeeds, and omissions. We are all in the drama, but no one has seen the script.” John O’Donahue Eternal Echoes Page 192

God, it seems, is able to relate to everyone whatever condition they may be in. We don’t know what God is able to do with and for each person, including ourselves, so that each soul can be brought home to the Sacred One.

Sometimes, we feel hopeless about our own situation thinking that we will never get it right and give ourselves fully to God and be holy so that we will be brought home to the Divine. Sometimes, we look at another person and think that his situation looks pretty hopeless; perhaps we have judged that person as beyond redemption and that nothing could ever bring him home to God.

The truth is that with God all things are possible, that “with the crooked lines of someone’s struggles, misdeeds, and omissions”, God can write a narrative that will bring any person home to the harbour where he belongs—the harbour where God is waiting to welcome each one of us at the end of the drama of our life here on earth.

Judith Lawrence

Judith Lawrence lives in Muskoka, Ontario, a land of lakes, forests, and wildlife. She began to write seriously when she was in her fifties and has written three non-fiction spiritual books. Judith has also written a book of mystical poetry and one of short stories; she writes a weekly blog about contemplation and records a podcast meditation monthly.

by Mary Haskett

Thoughts of my church’s past Easter services keep popping into my mind, hymns and songs of praise and worship.

On Good Friday our pastor reminded us that it truly was a good Friday. He pointed out God’s goodness in sending His son to die for us, and the goodness of the Son to obey the Father.

Then came Easter Sunday morning; our pastor’s wife led us in worship. Among other songs we sang that most beautiful and thought provoking song, “How Deep the Father’s Love For Us” written by Stuart Townsend with co-writer Keith Getty. This song is so moving. Tears ran down my face when we sung:

How deep the Father’s love for us,
How vast beyond all measure,
That He should give His only son
To make a wretch His treasure

How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns his face away
As wounds which mar the chosen one
Bring many sons to glory.

Behold the Man upon a cross
My guilt upon His shoulders
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no powers, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

When we’d finished singing, our pastor’s wife reminded us of a worship leader who had once suggested we change one line in the song. Rather than singing, “It was my sin that held Him there,” we sang, “It was His love that held Him there.”

His love—what a thought! Let us enter into His presence thanking Him for his love, and let us express our love to Him?

Prayer:

Lord today I come into your presence with a heart full of love and gratitude for You. I love you for all you’ve done for me. I love you for listening to my prayers, for working things out for my good, for taking care of every aspect of my life. Lord I love  you and I thank you.

Mary Haskett

Mary is a writer and speaker. Since becoming a Christian she has served as Director of Women’s ministries, Singles Fellowship, counseling and prayer.

She is a member of The The Word Guild. and Inscribe Christian Writers’ Fellowship. Mary is the founder of Ready Writers, London

Her book Reverend Mother’s Daughter was a finalist in the 2008 Word Guild of Canada Awards and won an IPPY award in the states. Her second book Because We Prayed was released last year.  She has had many articles published and  has been a regular contributor to the community publication Christian Life in London. You can visit her on her website.

by Jan Cox

Am I living in my own strength or God’s?

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13 NIV).

I read this passage and wondered why I don’t do it all in His strength. What is holding me back? I took a closer look at what happens when I do something in my strength and something with God’s. Here is what I found.

What’s the difference between doing something in my own strength or doing it in God’s strength.

Physically:

On my own I get tired – first I may feel exhilarated and excited – but as I progress my body can wear out.

With God – there is something extra – a push through – a deep fire underneath – an extra boost of power – and a body at peace through it all.

Mentally:

On my own – I have been blessed with a reasonable brain; I can think most things through to a satisfactory conclusion. But I use what I have stored up in my brain to rethink things. And that is not much.

With God – my thoughts expand. I can think beyond what I already know. Clarity and inspiration abound. My mind can soar to new heights.

Emotionally:

On my own – I am excitable; I can jump to conclusion; I can think of myself only and lose control easily.

With God – tempering, yes I think He can help me know when I might react falsely to a situation. I know He can bring me down from an overreaction before it gets too out of control. He can keep me at peace through turmoil.

So why don’t I always live in His strength. Because I forget. I let ME and I get in the way. They are always there and they want control. They want to show what I can do.

I continue to learn each day to trust Him more and more. The words of a secular song come to mind:

“Lean on me when you’re not strong; I’ll be your friend; I’ll help you carry on” (Bill Withers, 1972).

Will you join me in leaning on Him this week?

Prayer:

Father, I try to do things in my own strength. But when I do my body fails me. Help me to remember to lean on You, more and more. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.

My Gratitude List – counting to 2000. I am at 1308.

• clear head to get all computer entries done
• excited to see family this weekend
• got TV to work through Apple TV
• sunny sunny day but below 0 Celius
• summer is coming – our community docks are in

• love to use a crock pot – made more chili
• quick afternoon revival naps – 20 minutes
• grandchildren!

the gang

• playing games
• lots of chatter, laughter and noise
• putting together a barbecue – thanks boys

Where does that part go?

• Wayne and I taking 3 grandchildren to church
• a band in church where I can move, dance and worship
• cold weather but sunny
• cuddles with new grandbaby
• giggles smiles and energy in one small package

• playing in the park early Sunday morning with daughter and 2 grandchildren

Riding Bikes

Over the Bridge

• first long walk with Snowball since coming home
• safe trip to and from Barrie even in foggy, rainy, dark night
• hugs with my sister
• sorting through my Mom’s things

• seeing God’s Hand in little things like opening time slot at bank
• doing my life more and more in His strength
• remembering to say THANK YOU to God for each minute of living
• not being caught in a thunderstorm while driving

• meeting and studying with my women friends after 6 months away
• studying Moving From Fear and Freedom Bible study with 11 women friends – awesome!

Contributors

Jan Cox

Jan, a former school teacher and small business owner, found a new passion in writing in her retirement. She has published two devotionals and a number of articles for magazines and a Bible study. She is owner of Under the Cover of Prayer and moderates the site. She also writes at A Better Way. Jan is working on a couple children’s books in which she is also the watercolour illustrator.

by Rose Harmer

 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”  (Matthew 11:28-30 NIV).

For many years I have followed a pattern in my devotions of praising God for who he is, requesting his forgiveness or help, and then simply being still and listening as his Holy Spirit speaks in a still, small, inaudible voice to my heart, writing out those precious words and pondering them throughout my day.  The following is one of these “listening”.

Yes, my child, I have much to teach you.
Do not despair; you learned a valuable lesson yesterday which is to rest.
You know you are too busy and place too much stress on your mind and body.The stress has brought about the pain in your chest, the heart appointments and various ailments.

I never intended you to take on the heavy loads.
Perhaps now you are willing to take my yoke which is easy and my light burdens.
Trust in Me and allow My delight and joy in your days.

His commands are so loving and gentle, it is easy to learn his ways when we study his word and take the time to be still and listen.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer

Rose was born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, and speaks on subjects related to marriage, family and mental health.  Her travels take her throughout North America and she winters in Cape Coral, Florida.  Her published words include a short biography in Clayton’s Kids (2009) and a column entitled “Listening” which will be part of a forth-coming book.  Contact Rose.

by Judith Lawrence

Unknown to you, prayer is always at the service of destiny. Your days and ways are never simply as they appear on the surface. Human vision is always limited and selective, and you never see the whole picture. The Providence that weaves your days sees the greater horizon and knows what your life needs in order for you to come fully to birth as the person you are called to be. Prayer refines you, so that you may become worthy of your possibility and destiny. The irony of being here is that sometimes it is precisely what you want to avoid that brings you further towards creativity and compassion. John O’Donahue, Eternal Echoes, Page 190

We ask in prayer for certain things because we think that’s what is needed in our lives—needed to make us better people, needed to make us whole, or needed to fulfill our calling.

However, we do not see the whole picture of our lives; God is the one who weaves our days and sees the greater horizon; Providence is the one who knows what we need in order to become the person we are called to be.

For that reason, our prayers are often answered in a way that is unlike the thing for which we asked; our prayers are answered in a way that refines us, in a way that brings us to our full possibility, through a way that we would rather not go but will bring us to God’s place for us.

Judith Lawrence

Judith Lawrence lives in Muskoka, Ontario, a land of lakes, forests, and wildlife. She began to write seriously when she was in her fifties and has written three non-fiction spiritual books. Judith has also written a book of mystical poetry and one of short stories; she writes a weekly blog about contemplation and records a podcast meditation monthly.