peace – Page 2 – True Vine Living

Lauren Had a Little Lamb

“Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

Read Time 4 Minutes

Some years ago my daughter, Lauren, raised lambs for FFA. During her high school years, she raised 4 lambs…one each year. Not only was the experience new and maturing for Lauren, it was for me as well!

There is something very special about lambs! They are very Biblical, and represent the great depth and meaning of our relationship with Jesus in various ways. Watching Lauren’s relationship with each lamb develop and culminate each year became a beautiful real life illustration to me of some very special Biblical truths. It didn’t take long to realize the importance of the shepherd to the lamb…in this case, the shepherdess.

The photograph above came to my attention recently and inspired this blog post. The lamb’s name in the picture is Tova which is the Hebrew name meaning “The Lord is Good”. I want to use the photographs I’ve shared of Lauren and her “little” lamb (120 lbs) to illustrate a few truths about lambs and their shepherd. Most importantly, I want to illustrate the beauty of our relationship with Jesus, our very own Good Shepherd!

First, unlike any other animal, sheep depend on their shepherd for every single thing! A dog or a cat or most other animals can fend for themselves and protect themselves to some degree when left in the wild. Sheep can do nothing apart from their shepherd! During Lauren’s high school experience, it quickly became evident that each lamb at the barn knew their shepherdess and grew extremely attached! Lauren fed, watered, bathed, comforted, supplied medical care, sheared, weighed, corrected behaviors, and exercised her lamb. One year, her lamb, Maverick, wanted to butt himself against the bars until he bloodied his head. Lauren stayed much longer with him and provided her body to be the barrier between him and the bars until he trusted her and changed his behavior. She provided everything for her lamb, and her lamb would bleat passionately for her as she would walk towards it’s pen. Her lamb would follow her wherever she would go in the barnyard!

In Psalm 23: 1-3, the Bible lets us know that Jesus is our Good Shepherd:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
    He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
    He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name’s sake.”

In John 15:5, Jesus makes it clear that apart from Him, we can do nothing!

“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.”

Lauren’s relationship with her lamb certainly demonstrated what it can be like when we let Jesus be our Shepherd. We will lack for nothing!

The second thing that the picture above illustrates for me is that when we are abiding in Jesus, we can run with Him and leap with Him and experience great joy with Him…even through the dark and difficult times, we can experience delight in Him! Look at the joy in both Lauren and Tova’s faces as they leap together over the ropes! This can be us with Jesus when we follow Him!

“I have spoken these things to you so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” John 15:11

The next picture illustrates another depth of our relationship with Jesus. There are times when we face difficult circumstances and even with the joy in our hearts, we can experience sad emotions. Sometimes, we just want comfort and rest and to be held by Jesus. He is there for us then too! This picture of Lauren and Tova was taken on auction day. It was a stressful time for sheep. However, you can see that Tova was resting in perfect peace when Lauren was holding her. Tova DID make auction, and her future was certain slaughter, but still…she rested in Lauren’s loving arms.

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
*Psalm 4:8*

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

Finally, Lauren’s shepherdess days reminded me of the most amazing thing in the Bible…Jesus switches roles. While still being the Good Shepherd for us; ultimately, He becomes The Lamb. He willingly goes to The Cross allowing Himself to be slaughtered for us…for our sins!

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

Let us run, leap, and experience the joy of the Perfect Lamb! Let us rest in His arms when comfort is needed! Let us remember that without Him, we are nothing!

Imagine There’s No Heaven?

Read Time 3 Minutes

It’s 2022! A new year…a new start! Most everyone looks at a new year with renewed hope for peace and happiness and wellness. This year especially, after the last two historic years unlike anything our country has experienced in it’s 245 years, people are searching for these treasures.

John Lennon desired peace for himself and for the whole world. I am a John Lennon and Beatles fan…there was just something about their music and the melodies they played that created emotion in the heart! I love to hear the song, “Imagine”, but truly, the lyrics make me very sad. The lyrics equate peace to there being no heaven and no hell. While this IS an acknowledgement of Heaven and Hell, the thought is if Heaven and Hell would cease to exist, we could be at peace…no wars…no greed…just a brotherhood of man. Unfortunately, it is not the existence of Heaven and Hell that cause good and evil, it is the existence of sin. And truly, what is expressed as peace in the song “Imagine” is some of what Heaven will be like one day for all those who are saved and go to Heaven. So, rather than imagining “… there’s no heaven…no hell below us”, the better pursuit would be to get to Heaven!

To find true PEACE in 2022, look to the Someone who can save you from your sins and make a way to Heaven for you rather than looking to the new year with empty hope for peace and happiness. While there are expressions of God’s love through people here on earth, and while we can see a reflection of God’s goodness in people around us, we cannot rid this world of sin. This earth cannot become a utopia or a one-world brotherhood until Jesus comes back. There is Heaven and there is Hell…it is a reality…pursue the things of Heaven in this new year, and that is where peace will be discovered and lived out in this broken world. Then one day for those who ask Jesus Christ for forgiveness of their sins and invite Him into their hearts, they will have perfect peace forever in Heaven!

If you don’t have the certainty of going to Heaven because you have not asked Jesus into your heart, don’t wait! Begin experiencing the saving grace of Jesus right now in 2022, and begin living that peace of knowing that one day you will live with Him in Heaven forever. It puts the life you live here on earth in a whole new perspective!

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17

If you know Him already, take his hand moment by moment in this new year and walk closer with him than ever before not getting entangled in the discouragement of this world. Take hold of your citizenship in Heaven right now while still walking on this earth, and soar to greater heights of peace right now!

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him even to subject all things to Himself.” Philippians 3:20-22

“…but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Wellness in the New Year

While ultimate citizenship is in Heaven for Christ followers, we still have our physical presence right now to live in 2022. Often on the mind in a new year is health and wellness. As a personal trainer, I am all about wellness! The National Academy of Sports Medicine defines wellness as an individual’s personal journey toward the mental, physical, social, and emotional betterment of life. I am thankful that as a trainer, I have the opportunity to help women and senior citizens work towards fitness goals to be healthy and well! It is clearly evident that after a client has been working out consistently for a short time that they begin to see positive results not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

With all the draining and difficult circumstances surrounding us in this pandemic world over the past 2 years, keeping one’s mind sharp is equally important to physical fitness. There are a plethora of studies that show the connectiveness between the physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Therefore, healthy habit changes in the new year to diet and physical activity can also improve your cognitive health as the increasing amount of research shows. Small daily changes to food choices and physical activities can lead to big changes over time. If you are needing an improvement in overall wellness in 2022, then make an intentional plan for physical activity, develop a few new healthy food habits, and get the right amount of sleep for your body. You will see improvements for not only for your body, but for your mind as well!

And just remember, while the above definition for wellness sounds good, it falls short by excluding true “soul-wellness” which is peace through the loving relationship with Jesus Christ. When we pursue the betterment of life all by ourselves, we cannot achieve the ultimate goal of soul-wellness which is peace. However, with Jesus, all things are possible!

“I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

We do not know at what moment it will be our time to step into eternity. Until then, may 2022 be the best year ever! It won’t be because we are looking to our country to get miraculously better, or because we think we can accomplish our personal goals and resolutions on our own, but because we walk with Jesus each day allowing Him to strengthen us to make the changes we need!

‘Tis the Season…a reflection

*Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.* ~
*1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18*

Read Time 2 Minutes

This time of year is filled with many emotions. Warmth, gladness, gratitude, excitement, sentimentalities, sadness from loss or what might be missing, and often life reflections. As I listened to people talk this Thanksgiving about what they are thankful for, I noticed that many people expressed their gratefulness in relation to the last 2 years. I heard, “The last two years have been tough…” expressed more than once. The pandemic seems to have left no one untouched, whether they have had the virus or not, by difficulties due to domino effects that have occurred. What made my heart glad though, was hearing the 2nd part to the statement above, “however, God has blessed me”.

I have my own story from the last two years…a story of challenges during this pandemic. Like many others, this historic time period has often led to a feeling of anxiety due to the uncertain times. Not only did I move across country far from my familiar surroundings 2 years ago, but the stress of a big move and the start of the pandemic certainly aided in emotional distress at times. Beginning a business as a personal trainer was very difficult as well with shut downs that particularly effected restaurants and gyms. There are a variety of circumstances I could continue to share that have provided a challenging past 2 years for myself, but like I heard other people express, I too can say, “however, God has blessed me.”

One of my blessings is being able to move into a new home after a year and a half of apartment living. The way God allowed this progress forward in a time when so much was at a standstill has been amazing! More blessings include having family finally make the trek to the PNW to visit us this past summer, a loving husband to share these times with, the beauty of Washington state that surrounds me, overall good health, and new friends and adventures.

However, the biggest blessing that stands out to me is that God never leaves me alone. Now while it is true that I am never alone because He is always with me, that is not what I’m talking about when I refer to Him not leaving me alone. What I mean is, no matter what hardships I have already been through in my life and overcome through clinging to my faith in Christ, He still does not stop challenging me to overcome more difficulties and grow deeper in my faith walk. So, I give thanks that He delights in me so much that He keeps on shaping me like pottery on the wheel. He is continuing a good work that He started in me. I am thankful for the trials God has allowed in my life these past 2 years because He has been and still is using them to grow me closer and closer to Him. I am thankful that when I ask God, “Why are you allowing this?”, that He gives me reminders of His perfect goodness and also pours out tender mercies and blessings through troubled waters.

As I now look towards Christmas, and think about the the perfect gift of Jesus in this imperfect world, I am thankful for something else too! Due to the past 2 years and all the uncertainty that it has held, I feel a heightened since of peace in the one thing that is always certain…Immanuel. God is always with me, He never changes, He is always good, He never breaks a promise, He will never leave me, and I will be with Him forever one day! Halleluiah!

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. ~ Hebrews 13:8

See, the virgin will become pregnant
and give birth to a son,
and they will name Him Immanuel, which is translated “God is with us. ~ Matthew 1:23

May your Christmas be merry and may your new year be filled with many blessings from above!

The Fun Side of God

Read Time 5 Minutes

Ready, Set, Go, And STOP! At the beginning of this year, I wrote a blog post called, “2021…Ready, Set, Go”. Shortly after, I stopped writing. I started off the year inspired to live a victorious 2021 through Christ who strengthens me no matter what the year held. Now it is September. How am I doing?

At times I feel fatigued with life and the world around me. I stopped writing for a variety of reasons including the drain of everything surrounding the pandemic, our country, and the world. I really began to feel that I wasn’t living the victorious way that I had hoped. Recently, I realized that victories can be small and can be daily! Just overcoming obstacles on a given day by grabbing God’s hand and ending the day at peace is a victory. Waking in the morning after a hard day before and feeling God’s new mercies available to me is a victory!

Then, just a couple of weeks ago, right in the middle of a continuing pandemic, I had the opportunity to visit Juneau, Alaska. Yes, I had a chance for recreation and refreshment in the form of a visit to “The Last Frontier” State! In the midst of chaotic times and a very weary country (Covid-19 issues, divisiveness through media and politics, controversies, and confusion), I played! And, God reminded me that in addition to Him being All-powerful, Almighty, and many other perfect characteristics, He has a fun side! This is the multifaceted side of God that creates, that wants to delight us, and that wants to shower gifts on us! He certainly did all of that for me in Alaska!

He is a fun Father! As a parent, I wanted to create delightful experiences for my daughter as she grew up. It was a joy to watch her have fun in every new adventure or every new activity that I provided for her pleasure and growth. Just think how much more God wants to shower us with amusement and happy experiences as our Heavenly Father. He loves us and loves to give us good gifts! He is the ultimate Creator. Creating is fun, and God wants us to enjoy his majestic creations. It was evident to me that God must have been having great gratification being the Creator when I saw the amazing environment of Alaska. When I spied for the first time a sparkling blue glacier calving, I thought to myself, God must have had fun creating the scene that I was viewing! I also felt that He must be feeling great joy that I was happily immersed in His beautiful creation, for I am His daughter, a daughter of the one true King!

*“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17*

My experience went beyond just being awakened to God’s fun side. It also reminded me of what a personal God He is to each one of us. He showed me that the fun He was allowing me to experience was a very personal gift from Him to me. Each daily adventure seemed to be perfectly timed. I encountered sunshine, rain, misty low clouds, and mild temperatures…all which seemed unmistakably to work well with each activity. Also, as cruise ships disembarked many tourists to flood the area, I somehow began or ended my excursions around the cruise ship crowds without any awareness of their schedule. Thus, I had a very quiet and peaceful time as well as private moments in Alaska.

On top of all of that, I received answered prayer! My favorite part of God’s creation is His animals. I prayed that I would have animal encounters and I especially wanted to see a bear. Oh!!! He must have been having such a wonderful time watching me play! God provided multiple humpback whale sightings. One such sighting was in a very secluded moment when I had just stepped out of the car to take in the views of Auke Bay. I first heard the distinctive sound of blow and then turned to look. There were 2 humpbacks feeding very near the shore…I believe, a mother and her calf! He also allowed me to see four mountain goats feeding and resting on the steep mountainside while on a boat tour. On that boat ride while I was taking a picture of the mountain goats, a Pacific white-sided Dolphin leaped 2 times right by the side of the boat! The glistening two-toned creature is still vivid in my mind. Seals were added to my list of animal sightings as I witnessed them lounging on the sea ice.

And finally, on the last morning in Alaska, I saw my bear! Not in the wild on a hike, but very boldly strolling down the sidewalk in front of gift shops! He seemed to be doing his own souvenir shopping and then turned a corner and climbed over a fence before disappearing. Once again, there were very few people around. I know God was delighting in my delight in that moment as he answered my prayer!

My reflection on this Alaskan adventure includes more than the reminder that God is fun. More importantly than that is the fact that the same God who created mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and amazing animals is not only personal, He lives in me! My heart is His home. In that reality, I can face everyday in victory…in confidence, and even in joyful playfulness!

Also, as I watched the antics of the animals, it struck me that they were so relaxed in a potentially dangerous and harsh environment around them. They were not worried about what the next day would bring. The seals were totally at ease as the glacier calved giving them a ride on the sea ice. Their behavior seemed to amplify the fun of life as they bobbed in the wavy water as though they were in the lazy river at a water park.

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Matthew 6:25-26

So… Ready, Set, Go! Take some time to recreate! Have some fun! God is in control!

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17

A Poem for Thought

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Read Time 3 Minutes

Where is the light at the end of the tunnel? As we enter into our second year of Covid-19, some believe the vaccine is the light. However, the rollout of the vaccine has not been without many challenges and many changing predictions of facts, immunity, and about the road back to a working productive society.

All of this leaves Americans with an array of feelings, and still many people are on opposite ends of the spectrum on how our country should be handling all the issues that it faces today.

As Christians, we can struggle with how to deal with the troubles in our country especially if we don’t agree with some of our leaders. We have hope though, and it is a hope much mightier than a vaccine and much mightier than what individuals hold the offices of President, governors, and other leaders.

God does give us instructions on submitting to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-2 ; 1 Peter 2:13-17), and He also lets us know that He is King of Kings who has already overcome the world…hence, our peace and our victory for eternity (John 16:33)!

“The Lord sat enthroned at the flood;
the Lord sits enthroned, King forever.” Psalm 29:10

“God will bring this about in His own time. He is the blessed and only Sovereign,
the King of kings,
and the Lord of lords,…” 1 Timothy 5:15

I am thankful that we still have freedom of speech in our country and that we can use that freedom to speak out about our feelings and injustices. While I usually use my blog to offer uplifting encouragement, today, I want to share a poem that was laid on my heart. It is a poem that speaks about problems that I believe are being mostly ignored in our country. As I quoted above, Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” While I fully believe that Covid-19 is a terrible virus and has caused harm and loss to many families, I feel that our leaders should be addressing all the harm and losses from the fallout of the decisions made to combat the virus itself. I have much empathy for families who have lost loved ones to this sickness and much admiration for doctors, nurses, and all who are doing their part to fight the virus. With that said, I share a poem that cries out for some attention to other matters that are destroying lives across our country as well.

A Bigger Beast

Covid-19 is a horrible beast,
stealing lives across our country, across our world!
I believe, though, that there is a bigger beast…a deplorable beast stealing even more lives in a slow and degenerating way!
It is the beast created by the hyper-focus on this virus, the beast of media, “experts”, and politics!
This beast steals in a slow and silent way.
It steals peace
It steals security
It steals education, jobs, and businesses!
It steals economy
It steals the now and the future
It steals family time and celebrations.
It steals the ability to have a loved one with you in the hospital,
even at death’s moment itself!
It steals togetherness
It steals the smile on a face,
It steals emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
It steals fresh air
And the ability to share a meal with friends.
It steals freedoms a little at a time!
It steals a church’s congregation, community service, and visits with the elderly.

It is a beast that suffocates, that does kill,
That slowly steals a life by making it lifeless.
It steals patriotism
It steals a country!
It steals truth!

In the place of the treasures that it steals,
it gifts society with fear and dismay.
It creates distress, disfunction, and division!
It encourages isolation, depression, and loneliness!
It tells you that you are the enemy if you don’t agree,
That you are bad,
That you do not care for others!
It manipulates,
It lies!
It wants control!
This is the bigger of the two beasts!

By
Robin Bauer-Funderburk
01-21-21

Our country and our leaders need constant and fervent prayer for all the coming days and decisions that need to be made. May they seek God for wisdom and guidance. May we each show neighborly love to one another everyday for these are certainly tough times. May God be glorified by Americans seeking Him in revived passionate ways! And may we keep looking up to the One who has overcome the world!

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the One who is, who was, and who is coming, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8

2021…Ready, Set, Go!

I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Read Time 5 Minutes

In keeping with my original inspiration for writing my blog, “True Vine Living” (being healthy spiritually and physically), I want to reiterate that I believe that true health and well-being first and foremost begins with being healthy spiritually. The only way to accomplish that is by giving your life to Christ.

“…for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

We cannot exist completely whole and in good health if our spirit is unclean. None of us can achieve this on our own. We must be made new by the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. We can try and try, but we cannot keep ourselves without any sin in our hearts. It is a constant battle that cannot be won on our own. We can; however, be cleansed and redeemed when we ask Jesus into our hearts. This means that we acknowledge that He died for us on the cross in place of us for our sins. He is God’s Son. God loves us so much that He gave His Son for us. When we except that we cannot make ourselves perfect and without sin, and that Jesus died for us, and that He is our way to Heaven for eternity, we can be victors over sin! When we ask Him to live in our heart and He becomes our master…our Lord and Savior, then true healthy living can begin. If you have not yet asked Jesus into your heart, I lovingly hope and pray that you will make this step right now in 2021.

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God…” Ephesians 2:8

Once you have a personal saving relationship with Jesus Christ, then you can begin to tackle all the daily aspects of life “through Him who strengthens” you! (Philippians 4:13)

When we are spiritually healthy, then we have more power to take care of our physical health! As a personal trainer, the other inspiration for my blog is to be an encourager for healthy living through fitness and building good food habits. In this desire, I have put together two manageable and hopefully fun, motivating, and tasty lists for exercise and healthy eating ideas to try in this new year (with a 2021 twist)!

If you are interested in home exercise ideas, read on. If you are interested in healthy food ideas for snacks and small meals packed with good things for your body, you can view this list in the last section of this post.

“Twenty-One” At Home Exercises

With many gyms closed, mask mandates, and social distancing guidelines that don’t seem to be going away in the new year, most of us have found exercising challenging to accomplish. It’s been very hard to feel motivated. In this new year, ask God to help you in your motivation for physical well-being. Then, realize that you have a “gym” in and around your home with very little equipment needed for physical fitness, and the best equipment being your own body!

Here are “21” exercises for 2021 that you can do right in your own home or in close proximity to your home. Each of these exercises can be modified to be made easier or more difficult. If you are not sure what some are or the proper form to use, you can search the internet for very easy video demonstrations. I am also happy to help answer questions. You may leave a comment on my blog or message me through Facebook if you want a little help or guidance. The point is, just pick a few exercises to get started and do a little research on a few if you are unfamiliar. Be careful and don’t overdo to prevent injury. Build up to more as you feel you can. You may choose from these “21” exercises or use others you know to get started on a healthier you. If it’s a repetitive exercise, try “21” reps. Exercise for at least “21” minutes or more 3 to 5 times a week. This is a small start to building an exercise program. This is a big start to being physically healthy in 2021! The emphasis on “21” is to remember to conquer 2021 no matter what!

Take a brisk “21” minute walk.
Stretch various muscles. Choose a muscle (hamstring, calf, quad, etc.) Slowly stretch the muscle and gently hold for at least 21 seconds. You would be amazed at how stretching daily makes you feel so much better. I never miss this part of exercise!
Pushups – traditional or modified by doing a pushup on an incline using a stable chair against a wall or park bench
tricep dips– again using a stable chair against a wall or a park bench
bicep curls– require dumbbells
chest press– require dumbbells
overhead press– require dumbells
jumping jacks
mountain climbers
squats
calf raises
lunges
sit-ups (core)
crunches (core)
plank– hold 21 or more seconds (core)
butterfly kicks (core)
bicycle floor exercise (core)
bridges (gluts and core)
climb stairs at home or in a park
high knees drill
Play a little basketball or play catch with someone! Make sure to have fun!

“Twenty-One” Good Foods for 2021

These foods made my list because most of them are complete protein foods, or complex carbohydrates that rank low on the glycemic index. A few of them are on my list because they offer another type of benefit. Of course if you have special dietary needs, some of these foods may not be for you. Enjoy some of them if you can, and pack your body with the energy and nutrients that you need to tackle 2021!

A handful of natural almonds…one of my favorite healthy treats. They have many benefits, and I like that the Vitamin E is good for skin and eyes!
humus with whole wheat pita
edamame
Ezekiel Bread
yogurt with granola
natural peanut butter on celery (add a few raisins for “Ants on a Log”)
mozzarella cheese stick
whole egg
mixture of peanuts and sunflower seeds
dried apricots
an apple
herbal tea sweetened with honey
lentil soup and whole wheat bread
rice and beans
grapefruit
cherries
almond butter on an apple
carrots with humus
grapes
oatmeal made with milk
Because we all need a treat…dark chocolate (the healthiest if you need some chocolate)!

May 2021 be an amazing year for each of us no matter the circumstances surrounding us. May we be healthy and well by seeking the One who has already overcome the world! (John 16:33)

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” Matthew 6:33

Always Certain

I thought I would share something certain…something we can count on always. We live in tough and uncertain times, but God’s character is always sure, undeniable, indisputable, and never changes. We can be confident and feel victorious when we are HIS!

This is a collection of God’s character from Bible verses I highlighted in yellow (the color I use to highlight God’s divine character). This is but a small collection, and taken alone, just scrapes the surface of the majesty and love of God. However, by just reviewing this small assemblage of who God is, I find myself being reminded of how blessed beyond measure I am that He is my God!

GOD IS:

Righteous ~ Just~ Compassionate ~ Gracious ~ Slow to anger ~ Faithful in love ~ Good ~ HE performs valiantly~ HIS love endures forever. GOD knows you, searches you, understands you, is aware of all your ways, has extraordinary knowledge, and encircles you!

HE has eternal power and is divine in nature! HE shows no favoritism, and HE gives life to the dead! HIS spirit intercedes for us! GOD is: Wisdom ~ Knowledge ~ HE has unsearchable judgements and untraceable ways! HE gives endurance. HE gives encouragement. All things are from HIM...we exist for HIM!

HE is the Father of all mercies and the GOD of all comfort! Everything is from HIM. HE gave us the ministry of reconciliation in CHRIST (reconciling the world to himself)! HE doesn’t count our trespasses. HIS fruits of HIS SPIRIT are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. HE gives us incalculable riches of CHRIST!

HE is multifaceted wisdom and able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think! GOD is vast strength. HIS power enables HIM to subject everything to HIMSELF! HIS full nature dwells in the body of CHRIST! HIS word is living and effective and sharper than a double edged sword! GOD is a consuming fire. HE is the GOD of all grace!

“I am the Alpha and Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8

Your “Joy Bucket”

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
John 15:11

Read Time 3 Minutes

Think about walking through a wooded area where the bushes are in full production just ready for the picking of the plumpest juiciest blackberries. It’s a beautiful sunshiny day with just the right cool breeze. With bucket in hand, you plan on picking and filling the bucket with an overflowing amount of blackberries to take home for making pies, jam, and other blackberry treats to delight yourself for days to come. If you allowed yourself to get sidetracked with the sticks and brush in your way and began filling your bucket with the debris along your path, your bucket would not hold the tasty berries. You would go home depleted instead of being refreshed with the ability to be satisfied with delectable treats for the coming days. Think about this picture as you continue reading my blog post.

Times are tough right now! It seems as though our country is turned upside down. For some in America, the Covid-19 is very upfront and real. Some have tested positive, some have sadly died from the virus, and healthcare workers see it all first hand. For others, the issues have been financial struggles…maybe even the loss of a business. I think for all of us, the times have been very mentally and emotionally challenging. From corona-virus, to protests and riots, to demonstrations of love versus hate, to continued deep divisions in our country both politically and personally, it is very hard to be positive!

During my life, I have encountered and navigated through some very difficult and heartbreaking times. These struggles have helped me to grow in my faith and learn to rely whole-heartily on God to supply my every need, my every comfort, and my complete peace. I have even learned how to experience true joy right along with sorrow.

I am desiring to do the same during these trying times, but it seems very hard. I find it a daily struggle to stay positive and grab hold of all the peace and joy available to me through God in the midst of so many negative issues in our country. A couple of nights ago, it became clear to me why I have been struggling with this matter of joy. I have the head knowledge and the experiential knowledge of joy, and I have been praying to feel God’s peace and joy during these tough times; however, I was forgetting a very important action on my part. I was forgetting to actually REJOICE! When I choose to rejoice, then the “joy bucket” in me begins to be filled up. Because each day seems to be filled with so much negativism in the media and in the conversations of so many, the negatives have been the focus and what I have been piling in my bucket. The negatives we are all facing were the big things in my mind that were depleting my “joy bucket”. I needed to adjust my thoughts by beginning with the action of rejoicing.

This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

I am now consciously taking action each day. I am choosing to REJOICE in who I am in God. Just the simple fact that I am His puts me in an overriding victorious circumstance at all times no matter what is going on in this world. I am His, a child of the one true King. My life will always be abundant because He is always good to me. He promises to get me through anything I face in my life. I am secure in eternity because of my salvation through Jesus Christ. Because He lives, I can face each day with confidence. With this kind of security, why would I not choose to rejoice every day! I hope that you too can choose with full confidence and peace to REJOICE in knowing God, His goodness, and His Son, Jesus! Join me in filling our “joy buckets” with all the fullness of His goodness today!

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:11

We’re not in Narnia!

“Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime.” Martin Luther

Read Time 3 Minutes

“Why it is she that has got all of Narnia under her thumb. It’s she that makes it always winter. Always winter and never Christmas; think of that!” These words were spoken by Tumnus the faun in C.S Lewis’s novel, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. He was referring to the spell that was cast over Narnia by the White Witch.

The Confluence of The Big Thompson River and The Fall River- Estes Park, CO

Lately, it feels like our country…our world has been cast under a spell called the Corona-virus! A spell that has harmed people directly with sickness, taken lives, and affected everyone world-wide with shut downs, lock downs, and economic peril! However, we are not under a spell! This is not Narnia! While we are shut in and shut out, the natural things of this world are waking up around us! Everyday, more is in bloom. Birds are chattering all about. At the confluence of two rivers, you will find such a dancing of waters coming together flooding the banks from the melting snow! It is not winter anymore, it is spring!

Let this bring us joy, whether we are able to take a short walk with our dog, or perhaps only look out our window, or possibly just step outside and hear the birds for a few minutes. Let this beautiful spring remind us that there is still order. Things are actually under control. God knows what is going on. He’s got this. He works all things together for the good of those that love Him (Romans 8:28). For those that know Christ, he is working in each of us right now to draw us more deeply to Him. Hopefully, the circumstances will draw others to Him for the first time as everyone is pondering their needs and their futures during this time. The God who takes care of the birds and makes the flowers bloom will take care of us too (Luke 12:22-31)! It may not be what we think we need, so we must rest in the sovereignty of the One who created the heavens and the earth and whose ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:9). Let us rest in the refreshment and the tranquility that comes from being renewed each morning by Christ’s love for us. Let the spring that is awakening around us remind us of His love that renews our minds, our spirits, and our strength. Let it wash over us with an endless peace to carry us through each day!

This is not Narnia…always winter and never Christmas. For in our world, even when things can appear to be gloom and doom, we have Christmas EVERY day! We celebrate Christmas because Jesus was born. He is our greatest gift…the gift that keeps giving, the gift that fills us, the gift that never stops giving, and the gift that is eternal. We don’t have to have Christmas just once a year. If we ask Jesus to live in our hearts and be our Lord and Savior, we have him 24/7…365 days a year, and for eternity. As spring is blooming all around us, we are nearing the time of year that we celebrate Jesus’s death and resurrection. He died and rose again so that we may have a new life in Him and so that we can live forever with Him in Heaven. With that kind of certainty, we can face the temporary uncertain days with a renewed confidence!

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Let’s take notice of the new life budding around us each day in this tumultuous world, and let it serve as a reminder that our Creator has all things under control. Let our spirit be renewed with the abundance of the beauty around us!

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
hey shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

Interrupted!

Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

Read Time 4 Minutes

In the past few weeks all of our lives across the United States as well as most of the world have been interrupted by Covid-19. Even if we have not personally contracted the virus and hopefully will not, we are all effected by the quarantined environment we are living in daily. Grocery store shelves are empty of basic needs, restaurants, businesses. schools, and churches are closed for now, and new vocabulary and guidelines are developing such as “social distancing” and “working remotely”. It is certainly an unsettling time and pushes our minds to think of scenarios we are not used to thinking about here in America.

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. ²³For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. ” Luke 12: 22-23

I find myself thinking each day as I eat a meal prepared at home, how thankful I am for that food on my table! Although, I have always been thankful to God for provisions, it is much more heightened in light of the growing reality that even in America our abundant lives we have become so accustomed to can be interrupted!

As a Christian we can draw on the truths of God’s promises to supply all of our needs and to be our stronghold through uncertain times. However, if you are like me…even when we know these truths, we can find ourselves allowing anxious thoughts to creep into our minds. We fear things our minds imagine that goes beyond the reality. These fears are fed, of course, by all the panic and media coverage going on all around us. The struggle is real to choose the way God wants us to think. We often live in our own strength that wants to feed on fear and anxiety which is not of God. This reminds me that even the Apostle Paul struggled with being pulled in this way. He tells us in Romans 7:15, “For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.”

Paul struggled like we do, but he also learned the secret to doing life and living above fear! He shares in Philippians 4: 12-13, “I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Himwho strengthens me.”

In the last few weeks, our lives have drastically been interrupted by Covid-19! It helps me to remember that if we purposefully set our mind on the truths and promises from God’s word, we can begin to realize that He does supply all of our needs. However, those needs may not be what we are used to thinking we need. If everything were stripped away from us, God would still give us what we need to endure all things. He will give us strength and peace for whatever circumstances He allows us to encounter. If you really think about it, HE IS ALL WE NEED! Paul showed us that by praying and singing hymns to God even when he had been beaten and thrown in prison (Acts 16).

Maybe this interruption can be looked at positively as a time to draw near to God in a new and deeper way! A time to praise Him, love others more expressively, and shine a light on a world that needs Him desperately!

When fear and anxiety begins to set in, it helps me to remember to ^“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17.

Remote Exercise

A result for me from the corona-virus outbreak has been the closure of the YMCA where I had just begun building up my clientele. I am thankful that I have been able to put a spin on the remote work environment. Instead of holding training sessions with clients indoors, we have moved outdoors, and I am able to still meet their needs by holding personal training sessions at a local park. We have been using stairs, paths, piers, park benches, and rails to aid us in getting a good physical workout. Not only is it helping each person to stay fit in body, but I believe it is helping them and myself to stay fit in spirit too! The outdoors is refreshing and rejuvenating…a place where you can marvel at God and let Him wash peace and tranquility over you!

I encourage you to take advantage during this restricted time to get outdoors where there is plenty of space to social distance while getting a good workout for your body and soul! Walk at a quick pace along paths, jog up and down stairs, use a park bench to do inclined push-ups and tricep dips. There are many cardio and strength training exercises that can be done with very little equipment. Get creative, get outside, and get moving to beat the Covid-19 blues!