Trust

What a wonderful time of celebrations we've had recently in commemoration of the Queens Platinum Jubilee 🇬🇧. To retain integrity and the commitment to serve those who come under her figurehead, Queen Elizabeth II is one uniquely special human.

With scarily intrusive media and the smallness of the world these days, along with the insatiable desire for gossip, it's astonishing that Her Majesty has remained so preserved from slander. Throughout history I suggest she's among very few who have had to lead for such a length of time yet have retained admiration, respect and love from those who know her, even if at arms length. Whilst other leaders flail to maintain any sense of dignity and honesty, she remains unflappable; resolute in her duty; calm in her disposition and unswerving in her faith.

It's her faith which appears to ground her despite circumstances, demands and grief. This solid foundation ... her trust in God; her higher power to which she can defer and go to for help, guidance and counsel.

Trust cannot be demanded, coerced or be found at a whim when the sudden need for it is upon us. Trust is gained as a natural consequence of a relationship worked on.

Who is the Queen likely to trust? Not many I wager! Those whom she does trust will be people whom she has got to know over a long period of time. They will have shown time and again their loyalty, care, devotion and commitment to her without the need for any public recognition in return. Yet even the best of confidants here on earth can fail, slip up, have a change of heart and cause disappointment.

There is only one on whom we can depend, and like Her Majesty, it is God alone.

Even though He is God, it does not mean that we will find trusting Him easy, especially when we face trials and temptations. It is only through the development of a close relationship, maturing over time, that our first response in the face of a storm will be to intuitively trust Him. When that trust and a deep, inner knowledge and acute awareness of His care, grief and pain alongside ours, is our primary reaction, only then will we know the peace that passes all human comprehension. It will take up residence within us confounding all other more human responses ... because it is from Him. 

God will never misuse trust in Him. He will never take advantage, abuse or demand a favour in return. He wants our dependence, love and trust ... He wants it so much (that special relationship bond with each of us), so much so that He gave all He had, His only Son ... in return we get grace for those times of need, peace, liberty and hope for a much better future!

Abide in Him; develop a daily knowledge of who He is; depend on Him for all things ... the natural outcome = trust, peace and freedom. ❤️

Ingrid x

 

God’s will

Ok so I appreciate that the title of this blog is rather a huge subject and greatly debated with many schools of thought by those far more qualified and learned than myself.

So that being said, I’ll of course stick to my simple ramblings and musings.

Following a conversation with a new friend and realising that we both had big decisions to make this year, I was driving home asking God to make his will known and to show the way ahead to both her and myself. 

I struggle with the fact that it’s so hard to know what God’s will is for a certain decision when in fact it should surely be easy because after all He wants us to walk in His will, so why wouldn’t He make it clear for us … to help us avoid mistakes? As I questioned God again with this whole thought process I realised what I needed to do was to stop all trains of thought and clear the crazy chaos of cognition away. My jumbled thoughts racing in all directions just clouds and fogs up rather than bringing clarity.

At that point, God through Jesus simply said and says “Follow Me”. That’s it!

What better way to calm the soul and make sense of the scrambled egg mind. At the sound of those words from the one who holds my breath in his hands whilst upholding all things by the word of his power; the need to understand every detail relating to my options and plans just melts away. It’s ok. He’s got it.

All I need to do is to make sure I’m following Him. That’s it. 

I may not know what lays ahead. I may not understand the paths I could be asked to walk or decisions which will unfold, but I do know that if I am following God through His word (Jesus) then he will be the light, shining the exact amount needed for my next step. He will light the way and provide for the way … and it will be good.

Perspective and priority … first things first, just follow Him. All else will fall into place and be amazingly less significant than how it appeared prior to the re-shuffle in priorities and perspective.

Jesus wasn’t complicated or cryptic, he simply said “follow me”. There was no need for questions around provision or timings, location or salary. He was more than enough to satisfy any anxieties, and he still is.

Live in the moment and follow Him. No one has or ever will regret it.

Ingrid x

Peace, perspective and a prayer

Martha Washington once said “I’ve learned that the greater part of happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances”.

Now granted, our circumstances are often very likely to thwart bubbling happiness. A grief; a diagnosis; false accusation; injustice; heartache; conflict; war; debt … however it is our disposition when after the initial human response period has passed, which does in fact dictate our ongoing potential for happiness and peace. 

Each one of us would more than likely resort to some form of horror, shock or despair at unexpected and extremely challenging circumstances but it is the ability to then dig deep and tap into the bedrock of truth in our faith which gives that propulsion forward into growth, maturity, wisdom and acceptance. This can then lead to that peace we are told about in God’s word (so therefore it’s true) beyond human comprehension (Phil 4v7). Our dispositions change, becoming ones of light and happiness despite circumstances.

As Paul stated so simply to the Christian’s at Philippi … he was not at all worried about his circumstances but had learned within any given situation, to be content. There’s a inner peace needed when you’re content, truly content. It breeds a serenity and poise which elevates that person to a higher plane no matter how destitute their condition may seem to others looking on.

I’ve quoted before “Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace in difficulties” (CS Lewis). I know having peace within doesn’t mean happiness without, but it does give a perspective from the divine. A knowledge of God’s working within will be noticeable externally and almost tangibly flow out to others … no doubt cascading an uplifting effect to any in its wake.

Let us prayerfully be those who despite the cares of this world, can trust that our God is big enough and cares enough to uphold us, give us peace and love through our circumstance so that others see that same love in our eyes for them and their own challenges. Let us be light, bright enough to dispel darkness.

Lord let me be your hands and feet

To show your love and mercy

Your wisdom and your tender heart

To everyone I meet.

Ingrid x

The Faith / Trust Choice

“Sometimes faith changes your circumstances; other times it changes your perspective” (UCB)

So many people struggle with having faith. Often what gets in the way is their need for proof, for fact and scientific backing. Yet these people have faith in other people all the time, without those evidences up front … and they’re just ‘other people’, not God. Children have faith in all it’s simplicity which is why Jesus advises us to have faith like them, unadulterated and pure. Faith is the realisation that we don’t need our own human proof and methodologies because we can trust in the founder and maker of all things. There is no better foundation on which to fully rely throughout all of life.

Faith is a lifelong journey, not just for moments or seasons. ‘The just shall live by faith’ (Heb 10v38) says it all … live by … that’s every moment of every day, our whole lifestyle. Feelings come and go, and our faith may wax and wane but He who is just will remain faithful. Our faith, no matter how weak or strong, can never be misplaced when cast firmly into the person of Christ.

The bottom line is that no matter what God allows on our path; no matter if he answers our prayers or appears to remain silent … He is God and we can trust Him. He is bigger than our greatest fear and he will make all things right when the timeline of his eternal tapestry is complete, of that we can be sure. With this acceptance comes the wonderful inner workings of peace. Why worry when we have a God like this? Why doubt when faith breeds hope? To simply trust is not choosing ignorance but rather the wisest thing you could ever do.

I wanted to share the words of this song which helps me when I have my many moments of angst. I cling on to just keep trusting and to have faith; not in results, circumstances or my feelings, but in who God is, His power, goodness and steadfast faithfulness. He cannot lie, fail or cease to love me and he will never renege on a promise. Hide his word in your heart, memorising those promises so that the spirit can bring them to the fore at just the right moment.

Trust in You ~ Lauren Daigle:

https://youtu.be/qv-SXz_exKE

Lyrics:

Letting go of every single dream
I lay each one down at Your feet
Every moment of my wandering
Never changes what You see
I've tried to win this war, I confess
My hands are weary, I need Your rest
Mighty warrior, King of the fight
No matter what I face, You're by my side

When You don't move the mountains
I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You

Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings
There's not a day ahead You have not seen
So in all things be my life and breath
I want what You want, Lord, and nothing less

When You don't move the mountains
I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You
I will trust in You

You are my strength and comfort
You are my steady hand
You are my firm foundation
The rock on which I stand
Your ways are always higher
Your plans are always good
There's not a place where I'll go
You've not already stood

When You don't move the mountains
I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You
I will trust in You

Ingrid x

My Robin

I have a robin in my garden, a cheeky little thing but the friendliest and bravest bird. It seems unafraid of me and will hop close, looking at me as though checking out whether to come even closer. It sings so loudly and beautifully puffing out it’s chest with gusto knowing with assurance that there is nothing better in the world to do than create wondrous and joyful sound.

How free a robin seems to me. How little to worry about or plan for. Life may have its perils but it is simple.

I’ve been considering simplification recently and as a home group we took a week to discuss it (there is a chapter headed ‘Simplicity’ in the book ‘100 stand alone Bible studies). In the commentary the writer says “the practice of simplicity is a matter of watching our boundaries to see that our lives are protected for God … in a high tech world … where multi-tasking is admired … maintaining a discipline of simplicity is foreign territory”.

Let’s face it, there is so much to do in a day! Many of those ‘things’ are ok and necessary but there are a lot which if we’re honest, are distractions and certainly not necessary. There are also things that can be delayed in order to create space and time within the current day. It may require organisation, lists and consistent commitment to some change, however the de-clutter of our physical space and our schedule gives way to greater opportunities for good … and what a lovely feeling … to have less fog and cobwebs; less rush and stress; less to assault the visual sense and demand action. A calmer energy creeps up, a smoother brow with more space to breathe freely. Remember, your ‘no’ creates room for your ‘yes’. 

No to clutter (in whatever form affects you); no to high anxiety; no to rushing; no to snapping and anger; no to taking on anything more unless you have created space and time for it; no to busyness for the sake of external appearance and performance; no to invites just so that you don’t offend, or are desperate for acceptance. These ‘no’s’ will provide new space … it is how this newly created space is used which will transform your outlook and daily composure.

Yes to calm; yes to meditative time; yes to lists and organisation; yes to new ventures thought through and you have enough regular time to take on;  yes to social activities that bring you joy and not the anticipation of exhaustion or fear around acceptance; yes to time spent appreciating nature; yes to time focused on those you love without your phone nearby to distract your gaze.

It is in this new found and protected space that we can peacefully and meditatively ponder God and his creation. Even if for a few minutes I can guarantee that your calm considerations will lead to worship. What a wonderful place to end up in. It is all about him, not us, and to dedicate time for this at whatever time of day suits you best, is the best change you could make right now.

The birds have it right.

“If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don’t fuss about what’s on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds”. (The Message)

“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 6v26

By ‘sacrificing’ this time and potentially re-organising our lives to accommodate this worshipful place, we will never ever regret it. Why? Because our Heavenly Father provides and protects. We are of more value, we are precious beyond our comprehension, therefore he will give far more abundantly, above all we ask or think (Eph 3v20).

Peaceful ponderings

Calm considerations

Mindful meditations

Your simplifying will make space for your glorifying. 

Ingrid x

‘Even If’ (a song)

My sister told me that my previous post reminded her of this song … the words are honest and so relevant to many of us I’m sure. Even if God doesn’t intervene or answer our prayers in the way we desire, the key to our inner peace, acceptance and a greater future is to remain steadfast in the knowledge of God’s faithfulness and to hope in Him alone. Remember that verse in Micah (6v8)? We are required to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God … and it doesn’t say only when things are going well. The best thing we can do each day is to walk with God. If we do that, then his presence will be all the more evident and closer when we do face the next challenge this life has to offer.

MercyMe ~ Even If:

https://youtu.be/B6fA35Ved-Y

“They say sometimes you win some
Sometimes you lose some
And right now, right now I'm losing bad
I've stood on this stage night after night
Reminding the broken it'll be alright
But right now, oh right now I just can't

It's easy to sing
When there's nothing to bring me down
But what will I say
When I'm held to the flame
Like I am right now

I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone

They say it only takes a little faith
To move a mountain
Well good thing
A little faith is all I have, right now
But God, when You choose
To leave mountains unmovable
Oh give me the strength to be able to sing
It is well with my soul

I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, and I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone

You've been faithful, You've been good
All of my days
Jesus, I will cling to You
Come what may
'Cause I know You're able
I know You can

I know You're able and I know You can
Save through the fire with Your mighty hand
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone
I know the sorrow, I know the hurt
Would all go away if You'd just say the word
But even if You don't
My hope is You alone

It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul”

Ingrid x

In the fire

I sit looking into the fire a lot. There’s something about natural elements that are soothing and relaxing to gaze at. Fire has the power to kill and destroy, but contained and managed it provides warmth and comfort.

Sometimes if I’ve put a heat log on and it’s really got going, the heat when I open the door of the wood burner can be fierce. It’s cosy but it’s dangerous.

I reflected recently on the 3 incredible men which you may have read about in the Bible: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Daniel had appointed them as administrators over the province of Babylon. They were senior figures and entrusted with great responsibilities. They knew the laws and would have upheld them.

If you read the historical account in the book of Daniel chapter 3 you'll see it was a huge affair. King Nebuchadnezzar invited all officials throughout the province of Babylon to the dedication of his image in statue form. Heralds loudly proclaimed that at the sound of music everyone was to bow and worship the image. The consequence for disobedience to this order was also loudly heralded ... it was to be carried out immediately the disobedience was noted. A blazing furnace had been prepared and the perpetrators of this crime were to be thrown in.

When the astrologers came forward to inform on Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego the King himself chose to double check and gave them a chance to clear their names by asking if they would in fact bow down and worship his image. He even reiterated the consequence of choosing not to. He finished with "then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?" Indeed ... could any 'god' rescue men from being thrown into blazing flames?

These men had faith beyond my comprehension. They knew their God was the one who created all things ... fire was nothing when faced with the power of their God. The reality of their personal knowledge of God along with their dependence, trust and faith on and in Him, meant that they did not hesitate or waver in their response to an unregenerate earthly king: 

“King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

I wish I had faith and courage like that!! It's just brilliant isn't it?

They hadn't received a note from God telling them that he would most definitely protect and deliver them ... they had no knowledge of the outcome. All they had was their resolute faith in their God. There's a sniff of definite defiance and repulsion from them that this King (as much as they were up to this point, loyal and obedient to him and do still show him respect in their response), could dare question the existence of the one true God, defy his power and mock their faith. They had no doubt that God was fully aware of what was happening and that no matter what response and intervention he chose, they would not waver. They simply reported to a much higher authority than Nebuchadnezzar.

These men had their perspective and vision 100% accurate. It enabled them to face what all of us would consider a hugely frightening choice with unflinching surety. Can you imagine seeing the furnace and then being walked toward it after it had been stoked up 7 times hotter than it already was. The soldiers escorting you being caught alight and burnt up beside you as they throw you toward the flames ... you're tied up and have no way of escape  Agonising death awaits because you refused to compromise your faith.

I want to know my God like that. I want to know Him so that whatever I face, which may never be a literal fiery furnace, I have no doubt whatsoever that God is with me and His power within me has overcome the world. No matter the outcome, I can simply trust God throughout.

I love what happens next and Nebuchadnezzar's amazement! You can see him rubbing his eyes and straining against the heat to check what he thinks he's seeing. He asks his advisors to confirm that only 3 men were thrown in and they affirm that this was the case. The 3 men have been joined by another man who looks like a son of god ... they have been unbound and are taking a walk round the furnace! I wonder what they were talking about ... I'm pretty sure it would have been along the lines of worshipping God, thankfulness and encouragement. I like to imagine God choosing the specific angel for the task ... ‘it's fire this time, who will go for me to rescue 3 righteous men? This earthly king has overstepped the mark and must learn that the the God of these men is the one and only true God … and that it is Him who should be bowed down to’.

Sure enough the ‘fire angel’ came and the message was clear to Nebuchadnezzar. He shouted to them "Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" An immediate acknowledgment from him that these men served the Most High God ... what a testimony. I suppose they could have continued to wander round the furnace with the angel for a bit longer, but they obeyed their earthly monarch when it did not contravene their faith, so they came out. Not even the smell of fire was on their clothing and how those leaders of the realm crowded round them to check out this miracle.  

Nebuchadnezzar exclaims "Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God”. Remarkable. He didn't seem to learn much about the extremity of punishment, decreeing that anyone disobeying his new law would be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, however he had humbled himself in acknowledgement of a greater power than he ... God Almighty and that was all down to the firm faith of 3 men in the face of and in contrast to the whole kingdom.

May we hold fast onto our faith and realise that not matter how small we may be against the backdrop of this dark and present age, we serve a living, mighty God who has the power to save, to redeem and to change the course of history if only we maintain our trust in and dependence on him in good times and bad. Through all my life (and yours), God is faithful and good … he is the God of Hope.

I love this song 'Fires' ~ Jordan St. Cyr. The lyrics remind me that I too can walk through fires because God is with me; with Him by my side I need not be afraid.

https://youtu.be/H-ggZd-SmSs

Ingrid x

In the eye of the storm (a song)

I just wanted to share the lyrics of this song:

"When the solid ground is falling out from underneath my feet

Between the black skies and my red eyes, I can barely see

And when I'm feeling like I've been let down by my friends and my family

I can head the rain reminding me

In the eye of the storm You remain in control

In the middle of the war You guard my soul

You alone are the anchor when my sails are torn

Your love surrounds me in the eye of the storm

When my hopes and dreams are far from me and I'm running out of faith

I see the future I pictured slowly fade away

And when the tears of pain and heartache are pouring down my face

I find my peace in Jesus' name

In the eye of the storm You remain in control 

In the middle of the war You guard my soul

You alone are the anchor when my sails are torn

Your love surrounds me in the eye of the storm

When they let me go and I just don't know how I'm gonna make ends meet

I did my best now I'm scared to death that we might lose everything

And when a sickness takes my child away and there's nothing I can do

My only hope is to trust You

In the eye of the storm You remain in control

In the middle of the war You guard my soul

You alone are the anchor when my sails are torn

Your love surrounds me in the eye of the storm".

In the eye of the storm ~ Ryan Stevenson:

https://youtu.be/-sx8wTnnfSc

Ingrid x

There's more ... (3)

Overwhelm ... it's the straw that breaks the camel's back or death by a thousand paper cuts! Tiny and relatively insignificant things which when added and added to, can easily take us to the brink; the tipping point; the place where we sense a spiralling into somewhere scary ... a place where we feel out of control and alone ... it's fearful, unknown and overwhelming. We get worn down. 

Words like 'tedious' and 'relentless' come to mind ... they don't exude positive well-being do they? So even though my circumstances may not be full of great trauma in the sense of persecution, enslavement or natural disaster, yet the build up of these tedious, relentless things can often bring us to breaking point … to the point where the next thing to go wrong may be the dishwasher breaking or someone spilling milk, literally. They can lead us to a point of despair and meltdown that for a brief moment in time I suppose, (when you consider our life-spans and then beyond to eternity its just such a little speck, a vapor) we implode into something of great and disproportionate magnitude which leads to responses of untruth, overwhelm and utter despair.

It's not about criticising or even challenging myself to never get to those times again because inevitably they will come. It's the learning process so that when they do come, they might not be quite as magnificent in their deploring, demonstrative emotional breakdown ... maybe that might be shorter; it might be more manageable. Then it's the picking up process; the learning; the rising and moving forward which becomes more of a reliable response. It's noting that God is in the moment, that He is there. It's us that obliterate our own view, create a fog, normally made up of our emotions that distort and distance God from our view even though He's right there; even though He's the one who is agonising with us. 

He will see us through, He will not let us down. His plan is greater; His plan is wiser; His plan is for our betterment. And even though it may not feel as though he is answering our call because our immediate pressing circumstances or feelings are not being relieved in the way that we humanly wish they were, we have to rest in the fact that His grace, His love, His forgiveness, His vengeance, His justice, His desire to elevate us to a better place, a healthier path, a greater life of holiness, far supersedes and outweighs our momentary despondency.

God is most definitely there. I keep trying to really glimpse him and have an awakening as to his majesty and power. I want my life and all it entails to depend entirely on a constant knowledge and awareness of Him and His goodness.

Let's learn to speak truth over feelings.

Let's learn to trust God when we don’t feel like it … we’ll never regret it.

Claim the promises God has given us through his word … He cannot forget or ignore them.

God is GOOD, all the time. He cannot be otherwise.

It is moving on to the stage of grasping and knowing who God is that will translate and elevate us into a place where we will know his presence in a deep, personal and real way. We will know that despite grief and devastation He is there. It will give a sense of purpose and peace; preservation and provision. We will know without question because He is the God who made us; the God who sustains all things though the word of his power. 

We lift our eyes to the hills and we know our help comes from God, God the maker of heaven and earth; the God who flung the stars into space; the God who determined the exact detail of my DNA for a purpose and a plan. He's not going to give up on me. He thought I was valuable enough to die for ... it would be illogical to ignore me when he determined before the world was created that I was more precious and valuable and of greater worth than anything else, so much so that despite rejecting him and rejecting his perfect creation, he determined on a plan of redemption. 

It's incredible and I feel very ashamed that I got cross when an outcome didn't go the way I thought it should. I will endeavour to keep a firm grasp on the goodness of God. We live in a fallen and unjust world so we can expect more and more battles however it is knowing that when in the eye of the storm God remains in control and is good.

Goodness of God ~ Bethel Music:

https://youtu.be/IvSuGyJQ6oM

Ingrid x

Continuance … (2)

I’m in bed and will try to ramble on a bit more.

So like most of you, I have had moments of utter despair when the feeling of abandonment is coated with layers of anguish and internal agony. I have known times of terror when driving my 3 children home and being so overcome, that I am almost sensing suffocation at trying to hold it in; reply to them without giving away the fact that I’m crying; and concentrate on the road. Emotional and psychological pain can feel internally (but externally visible of course) debilitating … it is like your insides are being twisted so that your very breath is crushed out of you … there is an oppressive weight and a willingness to just disappear.

Where is God in this? Is he aware at that very moment of my feelings and my need for help? In my despair as I call to him for help, does he answer and do I get the help? It certainly doesn’t usually seem as though he does and in fact things can sometimes get worse!

I get all the usual verses … cast all your care upon him for he cares for you; come to me you who are weary and I will give you rest … my burden is light; ask and it shall be given to you; be anxious for nothing but in everything give thanks … and many more. I’m not belittling them or dismissing them, they are God’s word so they are true, but in our human emotional state, they just sometimes don’t seem to feel true. I confess that I am constantly having to pull myself up on being ruled by my feelings as opposed to what is true. Yes my feelings can be the truth, but the truth should be the primary driver to my thoughts, decisions and reactions to circumstances and attacks, not my feelings … they have their place but it is after speaking truth.

Where best to find this truth? God’s word … can’t really go wrong there! So God may not give us more than we can bear, but we cannot bear anything without Christ and it is his burden that is light … and he promises to carry our load. He’s actually in it with us, right there. So as I’m driving and crying or alone and convulsed with despair or confused at an outcome which is truly unjust, Christ is experiencing it with me?! That thought still seems baffling to me, but it’s much more acceptable and wonderful to me than him not being there at all!

As a member of the human race, I’m as susceptible as anyone else to any ailment, accident or attack … we all know that. We need to keep it real. I find amazing comfort in the psalms, David is just such a star at making me feel (there I go again) great reassurance as to my failings and falterings alongside God’s faithfulness. Some of his descriptions when being in abject misery are truly helpful. He can go from despairing cry’s wondering where God is, to describing in detail his fragile case and his enemies … the false accusation and constant hounding, even neutral civilians giving away his location to the enemy … basically being pretty mad and sad … to the acknowledgment of who God is. (Look at psalm 54 for example). 

It is this flick of the thought process from present circumstances and feelings (both of which are valid and very real), to the undisputed awesome person of God that enables him to begin to release the whole of his situation into higher hands. This in turn leads to rest, peace and more importantly, worship. Even though his immediate circumstances hadn’t changed, his perception of them had … his shift in focus upward to almighty God led him to accept that God was way ahead of him and had it all sorted out. God would avenge and bring justice, therefore David could sacrifice and worship in thankfulness that the job had already been done, so convinced was he that God was with him and would both care and provide for him. It was not necessarily his place to meet out vengeance on his enemies, he could leave that with God, however what is interesting is that he was quite vocal about condemning his enemies and asking God to destroy them, annihilate them in fact.

I don’t think God expects us to go about being trodden down without a voice or call for justice and neither does he instruct us to take matters into our own hands, but what he does desire is our hearts cry to him … yes shout and cry; express rage at injustice; name those who have wronged you; confess your own failings; ask God where he is; tell him your hearts cry and concern … but know this for sure because it is what he says so many times in the Bible, He is there … He knows … He cares and He actually understands … it hurts him too.

I’d better stop as I’ve gone on long enough, but I’ll finish with this thought that keeps coming to me … If God loves me enough to have sent his only son to die for me, then he’s hardly going to ignore my cries for help … he’s not going to opt out of helping me in my life or dismiss my daily concerns … they’re all of vital importance to him. His son’s blood was spilt for me and my children, so every tear that falls is precious and known to him. It makes me shake my head in wonder and frustrates me that I cannot grasp it more or comprehend it’s worth throughout every moment of my life.

Ingrid x

The Eyes of my Heart

In Ephesians 1v18 Paul says: “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people”.

I’ve been pondering how we can often berate ourselves as Christians for not being more committed or diligent in some aspect of our spiritual lives and therefore not being more noticeable in our faith. It can feel as though we are failing and not declaring forth the greatness of our God and his provision of salvation if we are simply living our lives in a way that is essentially the same as our peer and societal group. 

Should we look different and be noticed as different … outsiders? In the world but not of the world … what does that mean? Should I challenge myself to change because it looks like I’m conforming to this world?

Now, challenge is good if it leads to a greater spiritual appetite, depth of faith and understanding of God which then in turn spills over into natural evangelism … (I read recently that adoration is the best preparation ground for action) … but I do not see how challenge and a self-deprecating attitude is likely to raise the spiritual bar. To me, it rather does the opposite and can lead to negativity and untruths about my own worthlessness and weakness ~ what’s the point in trying as I’m never going to really please God or grow into a mature spiritual believer; I keep failing; I must really disappoint God; I’m awful at witnessing; I never read my Bible enough etc … unhelpful sentiments!

I’m not talking about growth here … that’s always necessary and on-going; but more in relation to our perceived image, persona and appearance as a Christian … our outward lives. You can probably tell I’m thinking as I ramble and write! 

Most of us will have fairly ordinary lives for the most part. We are affected by and undertake daily ‘norms’ the same as anyone else on the planet. I’m a busy lone parent with many other demands on my time … my days are often hurried with regular outbursts of impatience.

So, I’m beginning to think that what makes me an ‘outsider’ is much more about what’s on the inside. It’s not about external appearance or dramatics to become noticed as different, but rather what my life is anchored on to begin with. That then changes how I live … through my responses, my decisions, my attitudes and ability to control myself. My circumstances, choices and challenges may be no different to anyone else’s … my life may ‘look’ the same, but the internal peace provided, hope guaranteed and assurance of unconditional love, will be my compass and surety. I do not need to feel alone and hopeless because I have a grounded faith which works from the inside out. I do not need to search endlessly for purpose and fulfillment; I do not need to rely on the next ‘high’ or kick to either feed my adrenaline or obliterate my thoughts and worries … I do not need to explain away, mock or fear what is beyond death … I can quite simply trust God and be at peace.

If my life, from the inside out, is guided and governed by God; led by the Holy Spirit; directed by God’s word the Bible and powered by the love of Christ, then I will be who I was created to be, and God will be pleased … in the mayhem of my own unique life, each day, I can be that. Remember, his burden is easy and his yoke his light … God doesn’t want us fretting and toiling over our own inadequacies (they’re obvious enough!), but rather to dig deep into his word and the peace he provides so that we’re grounded in the present moment and be the best ‘me’ for that exact moment. Be mindful and don’t miss what’s around you right now.

That’s what I think living with enlightened heart eyes is all about. What are your eyes for? What is your heart for? Combine them and see Jesus … let him well up from within you and then you will see the world around you as he intends … love and compassion will pour out, and in all the normal ways of living you will be his hands and feet, bringing salt and light to all you meet.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15v13).

Ingrid x

All Hallows’ Eve 🎃

Over the past few years Halloween has become a much bigger affair / festival … a great opportunity for retail and grocery sales to peak, with ideas brought in that bear very little resemblance to the reason as to why this named day actually exists! 

The often hideous displays of horror and death which take to the streets and cackle at corners during Halloween may be done in jest and for ‘fun’, but in reality there is very little to be mocked or joked about when considering the Samhain festival which many link to the current day. There are many connections and suggestions as to how we have got to where we are today, but one thing they all have in common is the acknowledgment of the dead and of darkness on the eve before the 1st November which is All Saints Day … a day to acknowledge good and light. How come we don’t celebrate that day with as much aplomb and expenditure?! Maybe we should get all of our children up early to go round the streets dressed as saints and light, collecting donations for victims of human trafficking and slavery! 

I hope you can manage to read the following poem which is a great one to save and read at this time each year:

Vast armies undead do tread through the night and
In hordes march towards hapless victims to frighten.
They stumble in step with glass-eyes on the prizes;
Bunched hither, hunched over in monstrous disguises;
In sizes not lofty but numb’ring a throng;
To unleash on their prey the dreaded DING DONG.
Small faces with traces of mother’s eye-liner,
Peer up to the resident candy provider.

And there to intone ancient threats learnt verbatim;
They lisp “TRICK OR TREAT!” Tis their stark ultimatum.
Thus: region by region such legions take plunder.
Does this spector-full spectacle cause you to wonder?
Just how did our fair festive forebears conceive,
Of this primeval practice called All Hallows Eve?
The answer, if anyone cares to research,
Surprises, it rises from old mother church.

On the cusp of the customary All Saints Day
The Christ-i-an kinsfolk made mocking display.
These children of light both to tease and deride;
Don darkness, doll down as the sinister side.
In pre-post-er-ous pageants and dress diabolic,
They hand to the damned just one final frolick.
You see with the light of the dawn on the morrow,
The sunrise will swallow such darkness and sorrow.

The future is futile for forces of evil;
And so they did scorn them in times Medieval.
For this is the nature of shadow and gloom;
In the gleaming of glory there can be no room.
What force is resourced by the echoing black?
When the brightness ignites can the shadow push back?
These ‘powers’ of darkness, if such can be called,
Are banished by brilliance, by blazing enthralled.

So the bible begins with this fore-resolved fight;
For a moment the darkness…. then “Let there be Light!”
First grief in the gloom, then joy from the East.
First valley of shadow, then mountaintop feast.
First wait for Messiah, then long-promised Dawn.
First desolate Friday and then Easter Morn.
The armies of darkness when doing their worst,
Can never extinguish this Dazzling Sunburst.

So… ridicule rogues if you must play a role;
But beware getting lost in that bottomless hole.
The triumph is not with the forces of night.
It dawned with the One who said “I am the Light!”

I’m resolved to teach my children some balance so that if they wish to join in some of the more harmless activities of Halloween, then they must indeed appreciate the dawn of the next day … the true light who came to dispel the darkness and to conquer death. There is no victory for death when the light of Christ takes up residence in our hearts … and hallelujah nothing can separate us from this love and light (John 8v12; 1 Cor 15v54-55; Romans 8v35-39).

Ingrid x

Weary Traveler

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest”. (Matthew 11v28) The Message puts it this way: 

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

Isn’t it a relief to know that when the moments come (and they will) where life just seems too hard; too wearisome and heavy … the load is weighing us down, that we have a divine resource, one who says “my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11v30). Suffering may be inevitable but the weight of it and it’s impact can be off-set by giving it to the only one who can truly take it and in return lighten our load. 

“I’d advise you, then, to quickly get rid of your burden; for until then you’ll never be settled in your mind or enjoy the benefits of the blessings that God has given you” (John Bunyan, Pilgrim).

We’re all on a journey and we’ll all get weary at some point. God is with us every step of the way … talk to him and let him help share and lighten the load.

Another song for you … I love the line in this one ‘you were never meant to walk this road alone’. Listen to ‘Weary Traveler’ ~ Jordan St. Cyr:

https://youtu.be/Z36k-BXIags

Ingrid x

The Breastplate of Righteousness

Ok so following on from a previous post, I was thinking about the different pieces of armour whilst driving in the morning (berating myself for not thinking about dressing myself ‘properly’!). I went through the verse in my head and mulled over the various elements … this is my rather basic and unresearched analysis, in no particular order:

The Helmet of Salvation

This makes sense to me. At the point of accepting Christ as my Saviour, my mind and thinking should be governed and guarded by the helmet of my salvation … I should think in the new way, having been given new life, not as the old me. My mind should be transformed and cleansed as well as protected through this new birth and salvation … my mind has been redeemed.

The Shield of Faith

A shield would be held up against attack whether from arrows or sword. It was often impenetrable and would save a life … but it required active holding and being deliberately positioned correctly in order to be effective. If held to the side when an arrow was being shot at the front, the shield would be of no use. In similar vein our faith can be mightily effective if we hold it up against attack … actively, consciously and in the right direction. It is often our own failings and weakness that allow the penetration of an attack against us to succeed … we simply haven’t wielded the shield of faith adequately or accurately.

The Sword of the Spirit

In contrast to the shield of faith which is used to defend, a sword is used to attack with, although in the act of attacking with it, one would also be protecting oneself. So the sharpeners of the sword being the word of God is what we are to use going forward in battle. It ties in with that verse which says: “for the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirits of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4v12). To me, one of the best ways we can wield and utilise this asset in our armoury is to memorise plenty of verses including many of the promises given to us in God’s word.

Peaceful footwear

The passage tells us that our feet should be shod with the gospel of peace and that they are to be ready. We shouldn’t miss out on opportunities just because we haven’t got our shoes on! Wherever we go and therefore whoever we meet, we should be approaching and leading with the peaceful gospel … our arrival should exemplify the beyond understanding peace which we have secured through the redemptive gospel of Christ and his atoning death.

The Belt of Truth

I love this one. Truth should hold us together. It should embrace our very being, neatly securing our identity and purpose, reassuring us of our position in Christ and the power that brings. It is only when completely surrounded by truth that we are in a position to wear and wield all the other elements. But what is truth? I recall watching a video of many people on the streets of America being asked this question and so many struggling to give an answer at all. To me, ultimate, pure and simple truth is whatever God says and is. Only God can provide and share pure truth.

So that leaves me with the one element I had to stop myself on because I honestly didn’t really know what it meant without thinking more deeply …

The Breastplate of Righteousness

It’s easy to reel it off, but when I imagined putting it on, I wasn’t entirely sure what if would look like or relate to. I understand righteousness in some ways and I know that a breastplate was a protective piece of armour similar to what our police and soldiers would use these days in the form of bullet proof vests, essential to protect vital organs. In dictionary terms, righteousness means ‘the quality of being morally right or justifiable’, however before God we are not and never can be in and of ourselves, righteous … this is something that comes from God. In Romans ch 5 it talks about the gift of righteousness which is of course given through Jesus Christ. So this ‘right living’ before God can only be achieved through our faith in Christ and the growth of that through the study of his word and prayer … only in this way can we protect our innermost being and heart to withstand temptation and attack. We must surely work on properly crafting our personal breastplates, blended with the impenetrable ingredients of faith, the word of god and prayer … only then will we begin to live righteously and provide the appropriate layer of apparel to guard our hearts from harm.

To finish off Pray at ALL Times! That’s the final command as though when you’re fully clothed and kitted out for the days battle ahead, your constant necessity to progress forward is to pray … always.

Let’s get our battle clothes on folks … for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against the power of this world, the spiritual forces of evil in this present darkness (Eph 6) … in the process of defending and attacking, we bring peace!

I found Chuck Swindoll’s paraphrasing of Proverbs 4v23 helpful, it reads like this: “More than all else to be closely watched and protected (like a city or a bank vault), protect your inner self—your mind, your emotions, your character, your discernment—like a sentry at the gate watches over a city from his watchtower, because this is the source of all the decisions, responses, and deeds that represent your life”.

Ingrid x

Getting dressed

So when was the last time you carefully calculated and decided to get thoroughly dressed spiritually before you did physically in the morning? I get it ... I haven't done it either, not in a very specific way!

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people". (Eph 6v10-18)

Think about the actual act of getting dressed ... you have to find each item of clothing and then take ahold of them and put them on one by one, completing your attire suitable for the day ahead. Once downstairs and before you leave the house, you'll put suitable footwear and outerwear on too. Each piece is needed and appropriate (usually!).

Can you imagine what sort of days we'd have, if we did the same spiritually, putting on the armour of God? Visualise actually taking each item and putting it on you, fully clothing yourself with the power and protection God has readily given for us to use.

I quite often don't stand firm ... I falter, faff about, fail and almost deliberately want to give into temptation or complacency. Surely if I had gotten myself dressed properly first thing, I wouldn't even have to think about whether or not I could stand firm; it would be a given that I would! With that list of armour and the application given, I honestly feel as though I could conquer any challenge a day may bring. I would have courage and commitment; clarity of thought and motive; I would soar above the pettiness; I would deflect the arrows of self-doubt and false accusation; falsehoods would not deter me from pursuing the truth and standing my ground. What mighty power there is in this passage and I would venture to say for the most part, untapped by the majority. 

I've a good mind to stencil the exhortation in these verses on my bedroom wall, or maybe on my wardrobe, so that I consider getting dressed for the day's battles, before I get dressed in my physical clothes. 

The passage starts with BE STRONG and ends with BE ALERT ... in the middle STAND FIRM ... and always pray.

Let us try, from this day forward, to prioritise our spiritual attire over our physical dressage.

Ingrid x

Fasting beyond Food (a guest contribution)

Thank you so much to Alice Kerby for allowing me to publish the following:

“Fasting is a form of worship that can help to bring us into the present moment and provide a way of focusing on a prayerful intention.

It is mentioned repeatedly in the Bible (Lev. 16:29, 23:29, Luke 2:37, 4:1-4, Matthew 6:16-18, 11:19…etc) and is a popular tool in the arsenal of the modern Christian against a world of excess and saturation.

But what about those whose relationship with food has been far from simple? Perhaps you feel as if you’re missing out on a valuable spiritual discipline and that makes you sad? How can we engage with the practice of fasting if we ourselves have had to heal from disordered eating patterns or the trauma of food insecurity?

 

As someone who spent many years fighting and concealing an unhealthy relationship with food and my body, I am acutely aware of the slippery slope that well-intentioned prayerful fasting can lead me down. Let me say with complete confidence that, if you have received healing from your trauma associated with food, your loving Father who created you does not want you to jeopardise that healing in order to participate in fasting. That would certainly not be a way to honour Him! Likewise, it should go without saying that if you are still on your journey to healing it is even more important to guard yourself against the temptation of engaging in any prayerful activity which might result in harm to yourself. I choose not to participate in the generic custom of fasting from food for important self-care reasons. That said, I have come to realise that this does not mean I have to exclude myself entirely from fasting as a discipline.

 

I see fasting as the temporary deprivation of something I have come to take for granted which can then serve as a reminder throughout my busy day of whatever intention I choose. In this context, I believe there are many things we can forgo which constitute as fasting and can be offered up in worship and prayer to God.

One of my go-to things to fast from is my mobile phone. This small electronic device embodies all my daily distractions, my monkey-mind indulgences, the centre from which my fear of boredom manifests. The experience of depravation from this mental comfort blanket is one where, each time I reach for the pinging pacifier (which happens constantly throughout the day, certainly more often that I eat!), I am reminded to turn my attention instead towards God. The lack of the distraction is certainly an uncomfortable one:The discomfort is a reminder of my prayerful intention: The focus is on God and this, for me, is fulfilling the purpose of a fast.

 

I hope my thoughts have enabled you to have a different perspective on fasting and, ultimately, to be secure in the knowledge that, however we choose to engage in prayerful self-sacrifice, it should be done with an awareness of our need for wellbeing”. (Alice Kerby)

Ingrid x

Self-belief

I often find it hard to gauge inner confidence and to know I am truly secure in my self-worth. To accept who I am with all my limitations whilst having the strength of character to make decisions, trust my motives and stand my ground. 

I guess it can often depend or circumstances. We can all too easily become confident and comfortable with what we know and are familiar with, but put into a new situation or made to face a challenge previously unknown to us, of course our self confidence and assurance will waver. Yet that doesn’t mean we are any different to who we were the moment before … we are still just as worth while and valuable.

Confusing both experience and expertise with inner self assurance as to our core identity, worth and purpose will create instability, wavering and doubt … not good!

Let’s face it, everyone could continue to learn something new until they die. We’ll all face dilemmas and feel like a ‘duck out of water’ at some point, but that shouldn’t equate to an inner turmoil of self doubt. Someone who has their ‘core’ right and secure can face a curveball with stability and a calm assurance. They will learn what to do or find out what’s needed; ask for help or wait patiently for further information … it’s a chosen response governed by inner acceptance and peace. To be tossed around and agitated only feeds anxiety, fear and doubt, it’s not helpful at all! It can most certainly affect our health and our demeanor … a ‘fallen’ expression or furrowed brow can turn to harsher persona … not something that’s attractive when compared with the look of serenity!

So, I am saying to myself really, not to allow confusion over a circumstance to waver my known assurance of what is right and also that my motive is ok … don’t give in to doubt or fear … be strong and courageous; stand for justice and faith; persevere and endure … and when all else fails, stand … it is in the toughest of battles that the evidence of God’s presence is not necessarily greater, because he is with us all the time, but it is more relied upon and asked for … when I am weak then I am strong but only because of his strength in me, for greater is he who is in me than he who is in the world. Now that is something to provide great stability, assurance and confidence.

For me, my current battle may involve a court room and difficulties that I hope none of you will ever face, however yours may involve concerns over your health that you hope I will never face, or maybe financial worries … a business venture or having to sell up; a challenging relationship or a grief. We will all have something at some point, but the key is to know with full assurance of faith that we are loved, secure, are of great value and have all the resources our Heavenly Father ready to help and aid us.

I need to doubt myself less and trust my God more.

Ingrid x

A share from Chuck Swindoll

So I’m being lazy again and sharing something that I found encouraging rather than write a post myself. It’s just been hard lately and I find I have little head space left when I come to write. 

I like this … it surprises me that it’s ok to pray like David did … to ask God to hold someone accountable who is attacking me in some way and to get them to fall by their own doing. It’s quite specific prayer! Maybe it’s a good thing though … to off load and hand it over to the one who will do justly and fight for the oppressed. There’s a lot of evil in the world and a fight against righteousness, so we should pray that those who are behind these schemes, fall into their own traps and are foiled in their plans. We can then peacefully leave it with God, knowing that he will do what is right and in the right time.

I certainly want to go around with a countenance exuding peace rather than a bitter fallen face. No matter the battle you or I come up against; no matter the attack, deceit and lies; no matter the injustice and false accusation, let us live out God’s peace which defies human logic, defies rational explanation and goes way beyond our comprehension.

Ingrid x

 God’s Shield against Discouragement

by Chuck Swindoll

Psalm 5:9–12

Sometimes we suffer discouragement because of difficult circumstances caused by no one in particular: natural disasters, disease, economic downturns, injury. Frequently, however, we suffer because enemies cause us harm and refuse to stop. That was David’s lament in Psalm 5. He knew discouragement can easily escalate into resentment, bitterness, hatred, and finally retaliation. He feared becoming like his oppressors. So, David reflected on the Lord’s character and asked Him for the ability to do things His way. David then considers the character and actions of his enemies (Psalm 5:9–10).

There is nothing reliable in what they say;
Their inward part is destruction itself.
Their throat is an open grave;
They flatter with their tongue.
Hold them guilty, O God;
By their own devices let them fall!
In the multitude of their transgressions thrust them out,
For they are rebellious against You.

In his mind, David deliberately hands his enemies over to God, who has the sole authority to dispense justice or mercy. He also asks God to allow them to “fall by their own devices.” When dealing with those who oppose righteousness, it’s helpful to remember that they are fighting against the Lord, not you. Consequently, you can be sure He will not allow evil deeds to continue forever. He will limit sin and hold the sinners accountable. If left alone in their own counsel, they will fall by themselves!

Paul the apostle says it straight in Romans 12:17–19.

Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

The daily grind of discouragement is lessened when we trust that the Lord will fight our battles for us.
Finally, having celebrated the righteous character of God, having requested the ability to remain on God’s side of the issue, and having considered the ultimate fate of evildoers, David imagined the future joy of the righteous (Psalm 5:11).

But let all who take refuge in You be glad,
Let them ever sing for joy;
And may You shelter them,
That those who love Your name may exult in You.

The key thought through this verse is joy. How are you doing regarding your countenance—is it joyful? Do you really live above the pressures? Is there an evidence of peace written across your face? If you fight your own battles without the Lord, you’ll become bitter, severe, cranky, and ultimately your face will bear the marks of the battle.

Have you ever taken note of Cain’s response to God’s refusal of his offering? A most significant statement appears in Genesis 4:5: “So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell.” Another way of translating the Hebrew text adds a bit more color: “And Cain burned with anger exceedingly and his face fell.” When anger and resentment are harbored, our faces show it. Our jaw tightens with clenched teeth. Our eyes narrow. It is impossible to hide inner discouragement! “Fallen” faces reveal discouraged hearts. David wanted God to take his inner burden and replace it with inner joy.

Finally, the composer mentions a promise we frequently forget:

For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, 
You surround him with favor as with a shield.
(Psalm 5:12)

David closes his song with his eyes turned toward the Lord and away from the sources of his discouragement. Having given God his “morning burden,” David’s discouragement fled. The shield he mentions at the end of his song here in verse 12 was the largest of warriors’ shields, covering the entire body. So what is the promise? God will bless the one who looks to Him for protection. How? He will do this by giving him favor and by providing him with His large, protective (yet invisible) shield. Up with the shield . . . out with discouragement!