This Little Light of Mine

Our garage is in the basement and sometimes, when we come home at night, we like to tease each other by turning out the lights in the stairwell. The girls always let out a squeal as their daddy starts going "OOOOH, OOOOH", like some ghostly figure in Scooby Doo. There are no windows near our stairs, so when the lights go out its darker than dark. You can't even see your hand in front of your face. Its only when the lights come back on that we can find our way up.

Salvation is just like that. In John 3:3 Jesus said, "Unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." John 3:19 compares salvation with light stating that God is the Light but the people loved darkness more because of their evil ways.

In the same way that light in our homes illuminates our way, it also shows us the dusty tables and floors and imperfections in our walls. As sinners, we tried to avoid the Light because our own imperfections would be exposed. But eventually, in the darkness, we just could no longer find our way. We were spiritually blind.

Jesus is the Light of The World. By turning to Him, our pathway is easier to see and though some dust may remain, only by seeing it can we be wiped clean. And just like coming home on a dark night, only in the Light can you find your way up.

Basic Needs

We've all heard it before. The necessities for life are food, water and shelter. But really, you could live without shelter. Not pleasantly, but a few leaves or a good hole in the ground would suffice. What's left? Food and water... anything else? What about sunlight? Without it the earth would freeze, leaving every living thing to die.

But, have you ever related your physical needs to what is required to sustain your spiritual life?

Food - "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again." John 6:35

Water - "Those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." (John 4:13)

Light - "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." (John 8:12)

We know how far most people would go to get their basic needs. Fulfilling your spiritual needs is way simpler. God is waiting, always ready to feed you, quench you and light your way. No grocery store lines, waiting lists or SPF numbers.

Girl, Interrupted

I just sat here and deleted the post I was working on. I have been feeling a little overwhelmed. The economy has gotten to me, and I'm scared. I've spent a lot of time going back to Phil. 4:6, "do not worry about anything".

And all the time I'm writing, God is saying, "Shut up, listen. Listen. HEY, you're not listening!" Of course, He's right.

God says, "You wish you had a smaller house and a simpler life, so why do spend so much time worrying about losing these things? Don't you know I'll always make sure you have what you need?"

God says, "These trials will prove your faith and build endurance. And your hope will not lead to disappointment."

Thank you Father, for being what I need, when I need it.

Miracle On The Hudson

I'm watching the numerous interviews with the survivors of this incredible accident yesterday. They have said that after being told to "tuck and brace" there were many audible prayers heard throughout the cabin. This one woman said she was a born-again Christian and that was when she knew they would be okay.

We never hope that it will take a tragedy to bring people to Christ and fortunately, this potential tragedy turned out to be a miracle. God protected these people and blessed the hands of the pilot and they were all saved. God is so great!! Perhaps there were people on board who were not believers but maybe now have a different opinion.

Bad Habits

I'm not very good about changing out the empty roll of toilet paper. I just set a new roll on top of the now empty one. Drives my husband crazy.

Just now, discovered that darling had replaced the roll, except now it feeds from the bottom...WHEN EVERYBODY KNOWS IT SHOULD COME FROM THE TOP! I think its his way of getting even.

Sick Day

We're into day 2 of Chloe's yucky cold. She's my five year old and she's not feeling so well. Nothing serious, coughing, sniffles and a bit of a fever. I'm giving her Tylenol and juice, but what she wants most is Mama's love. So we've also spent lots of time snuggled together under the covers.

Isn't that how it always goes? Whenever our kids are sick, or hurt, or sad, they run to their parents for comfort. And we're always there, waiting with open arms. And if you're like me, you savor these moments knowing that, as the years pass, they will become fewer and fewer. We all grow up and want to take care of ourselves.

I think God often feels the same. He sees His children suffering and wants so badly to comfort us. But our independant nature makes us think that we can handle it all on our own. Just like our own children, He can't hold us unless we run to Him first. And don't you know that He cherishes each and every minute we spend just "being" with Him?

When we are dealing with all our grownup issues, why are we so stubborn and insist that we can fix things ourselves? We spend so much time grumbling over our woes and so little time resting in The Father's arms. Most of the time, all it takes for our kids is a good hug and they're off and running again.

So next time you fall (into sadness, illness, or just plain crabbiness), remember that God is always there ready to hold you and make it all better.

Paying It Forward

A lovely and Godly woman blessed me with this award. If you don't know Sherri Watt, you can visit her site here. Thanks for spreading the love, Sherri!

I'll be passing this award on to other deserving bloggers and I encourage you to check them out and be inspired, as I have been.

Shaun Groves' Shlog
Marlo - The Joyful Christian Wife
Valerie Lynn - Simply 4 God
Trey Morgan's Blog
Jamie - Rose Cottage

Now, if you're so moved, pass this on to other bloggers you love. Just add the logo on your page, link to your favorite blogs and be sure to let 'em know. Now go spread some love.