Let's practice

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:8-9 (NLT)

Thanks to Mama Robertson for directing us to Phillipians 4 yesterday. I meditated on that chapter, which also tied into the My Utmost for His Highest devotional. Reflecting on Matthew 5:30, Oswald describes the discipline of obeying God in the process of regeneration.

There are many things that are perfectly legitimate, but if you are going to concentrate on God you cannot do them. Your right hand is one of the best things you have, but Jesus says that if it hinders you in following His precepts, then “cut it off.” The principle taught here is the strictest discipline or lesson that ever hit humankind.

I may think about a Bible verse at some point in any given day, but I do have to work at continually fixing my thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and admirable. I remember at Young Life camp one summer the speaker asked how we would feel if someone projected our thoughts for an entire day on a movie screen for all to see. I’m pretty sure we would all react to that with some level of mortification! But could I get to a point where the complaining, judging, envying, and dishonest thoughts are merely sparse exceptions in a generally pure and prayerful thought life? Paul says it is possible; just keep practicing turning your mind to the One who is praiseworthy.

Focusing on that which is praiseworthy means destroying or avoiding anything that hinders our focus. Growing up, my dad had a rule that from 9pm to 9am we could only listen to Christian music, meaning when we went to bed and woke up we were listening to uplifting tunes. Today I still practice that when I get in the car to drive to work; I feel slight anxiety if I don’t listen to worship before news or other music. I have practiced to the point that I truly yearn to praise Jesus first, if I listen to music in the morning. I also try not to touch my computer in the morning until I have spent time in the Word, because I know that once the laptop opens the to-dos and “urgent” messages in my inbox will distract me.

I have been convicted about busyness. The looming to-do list has often kept me from giving my full mind and focus to the Lord. The funny thing is, that when I take even 15 minutes to sit still before the Lord in the morning, rather than finish some reading or send out emails, I find my day is more productive and overall enjoyable. He really does pour out peace that passes all understanding.

Heavenly Father, you are worth thinking about all day long. What else compares to meditating on You? I pray that we would practice daily being tuned in to your Truth. You, the God of Peace, promise to be with us as we turn our hearts and minds to all things praiseworthy. Good deal!

Guest Post From My Mom

 (Me, my Mom, and Josie...wouldn't that make a great movie title?)

Today we have the distinct honor of hearing from my Mom, Lisa Robertson.

If I could choose one chapter in the Bible to use as a handbook for thriving with Christ, it would be Philippians 4.  Included in these short 23 verses are dynamic nuggets that have been life changing.

For starters:

Rejoice in the Lord-

Don't worry about ANYTHING

Pray about everything

Tell God what you need

and Thank Him for what He has done.

All of this will bring you God's peace that passes all understanding.  vs 4-7 (NLT)

Don't worry—this is not a suggestion, but a command.  Worry is unhelpful, unhealthy and unproductive.  Why waste our time and energy on worry? There is nothing constructive that happens when we worry.

Pray about everything—everything means every thing. We can't be afraid to pour your heart out to God and tell Him what's on your mind.

Tell God what you need—Be specific- how will we  know if and how God answers prayer if we aren't specific?  God loves to have us come to Him and talk about our lives. He cares about us and all that concerns us.

And the peace of God—This peace isn't like relaxing at the beach, we all can understand that kind of peace.  Rather, the peace that passes all understanding is the kind of peace where we feel secure, loved and safe when our world is falling apart everywhere else.

How do we understand that kind of peace?    By recognizing it is a gift from God. Like a miracle.  We know that God is with us and He is in control.  Our problems are not a surprise to Him and there is nothing that we will ever face that is greater than the power of God.

When you know the peace that passes all understanding, it will guard your hearts and your minds as you live in Christ Jesus.  "To guard" is  best understood to be like a soldier guarding your heart and mind to protect it and keep it secure.  

Today, I challenge each of us to choose prayer over worry.  Pray about everything, tell God what you need, and be thankful. 

By praying more and worrying less, our thoughts will change and so will our attitudes.  We'll also begin to become more aware of where God is in the details of our lives .

Try it and see what happens!

Wedding Words

 (Bermuda, The Newlywed's Honeymoon Destination)

The wedding was perfect.  Catherine was a beautiful, radiant bride, full of peace and joy.  I don't have a picture yet, (the bride is a clever one and doesn't have pictures on Facebook) but hope to have one soon. 

The scriptures they read are amazing and this morning, I've been meditating on them, as I reflect on God's goodness to Catherine and Nate, His faithful love for His children, and the miraculous promise that our God is able to make all things new. 

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.  If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?  Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.  This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. "

1 John 3:16-20 (NIV)

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."

He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life."

Revelation 21:1-6

Going to the Chapel...

I'm SO excited for this weekend, because tomorrow these two...

Will become these two...

And in case you didn't know, my best friend Catherine is marrying a rock star.




Not only is he a rock star, but he loves and adores his bride.  As I see the way Nate loves Catherine, once again, I'm reminded of God's incredible love for each one of his children.

We have a God who loves us and delights in us.

"As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you."

Isaiah 62:5 

"The Lord your God is with you,
       he is mighty to save.
       He will take great delight in you,
       he will quiet you with his love,
       he will rejoice over you with singing."
Zephaniah 3:17

May we never grow tired of hearing how loved and cherished we are in the eyes of our our God!

And so, in honor of their pending nuptials, I leave you with another overly watched wedding YouTube video just because it's Friday:

Pray About Everything!

"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

 Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)

A Heart Like Hannah's

Orignially Posted on March 26, 2010


So I'm no expert blogger, but I don't think the "best of the best" typically re-post something three months later (maybe that's why I'm not one of them).  Regardless, I went back and read this post as I'm praying about prayer and was challenged and encouraged all over again. (Probably because it's based off of Beth Moore's insights and not mine.) So rather than posting something similar, I'm giving it to you again.  For those of you who've already read it, I hope it encourages you in a new way today. 

"And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish."

1 Samuel 1:10

Yesterday we talked about the importance of not giving up on God, even when all of our earthly circumstances might be telling us to quit.

This morning I was led to the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel via Beth Moore (she tends to lead me to pretty great stuff in the Bible).  In 1 Samuel 1, we see Hannah's anguish over her inability to bear a child.  Yet in her bitterness, Hannah wept and prayed to the Lord.  She promised that if God gave her a son, she would give him back to the Lord all the days of his life.  Even in her bitterness and pain, Hannah continued to seek the Lord and be faithful to Him.   

She believed the promise in 1 Chronicles 28:9 before it had even been written,  

"The Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts.  If you seek him, he will be found by you."

Why did God choose to answer her prayer?  According to Beth, who I tend to agree with, "First, He is gracious.  He longs to pour His love on us. Second, He knew her heart.  He knew that what she said, she would do."  

Hannah wasn't just spouting off an empty promise.  God knew she would follow through.  And that's exactly what she did.  When God answered the cry and desire of her heart, Hannah named her son Samuel saying "Because I have asked the Lord for him"(verse 20).  After approximately three years of loving, caring, and providing for her son, she fulfilled her commitment and took him to the house of the Lord where he could be fully turned over to the work of the Lord.

I don't have a child, but I can't imagine Hannah's faithfulness to actually follow through and give her son back.  I think I would say, "thanks for the baby, but I'll just go ahead and keep him."

I love the picture Hannah provides for us of a woman who sought the Lord, poured her heart out, and prayed through her bitterness.  Hannah remained committed to God in spite of her pain, and did not give up Him.  She made a vow to the Lord and was faithful to follow through.  Even when she takes Samuel to live at the temple to give him back to the Lord, she worshiped the Lord, praying,

"My heart rejoices in the Lord; My horn is exalted in the Lord, I smile at my enemies because I rejoice in your salvation.  No one is holy like the Lord, for there is none besides You, nor is there any rock like our God,"  

(1 Samuel 2:1-2)

Hannah is a woman who did not give up.  She did not lose heart.  Even through pain, trials, and sacrifice, she did not stop believing in God's goodness.  There is no rock like our God!

What a faithful example for each of us!

Lord, in the day of my trouble, may I be a woman who seeks after You.  From the ends of the earth, I cry out to you!  When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. 
(Psalm 77:2, Psalm 61:2)




Thanks to Beth Moore's book, David: 90 Days With A Heart Like His for the insight for this post.

The Answer

As a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a friend, I'm a girl who likes to have the answers for everyone.  I want to believe that most of my intentions are pure—a combination of wanting to offer solutions and encourage people I love; mixed with a desire to feel needed (the not so pure part).

However, recently I'm seeing that on my own, I have nothing life-giving to offer.  For you Bachelorette fans, my attempt at advice usually ends up coming out a little like Casey's effort to serenade and woo Ali.  Those of you who are not as well-versed in the Bachelorette, go to the one minute mark below to find out what I'm talking about.  Talk about painful!

(E-mail subscribers click to watch)



Bachelorette aside, lately I've been challenged to teach my "Miss Fix-it" how to pray.  Instead of trying to find answers on my own (because I clearly don't have them), I'm beginning to pray, "Lord, show me how to pray.  Teach me to channel my emotions and my need for answers through prayer and see that ultimately, You are the One who reveals life-giving truth." 

In my quest to figure out answers, I'm beginning to see that prayer is THE answer. 

So, you might hear more about prayer coming up, because I have a lot to learn. For now, I'm starting with the basics and you're welcome to join me.  

"One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples." He said to them, "When you pray, say:
   'Father,
   hallowed be your name,
   your kingdom come.
 Give us each day our daily bread.
 Forgive us our sins,
      for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.
   And lead us not into temptation."

Luke 11:1-4 (NIV)

Father's Day

(One of my favorite wedding pictures taken by Patricia Lyons)

Father's Day is always two-fold for me.

It's a reminder of how blessed I am to have a dad who loves me, supports me, and encourages me to pursue excellence.

As the father of four girls and one boy, my dad (or T-Rob, as we affectionately call him) goes above and beyond to care and provide for us.  The way he leads our family has set a standard for all of us of how a man is able to love God, his wife, and his children.  His love for us is deep and authentic. 

But, no matter what our relationship with our earthly fathers may be today, Father's Day also serves as a reminder of the infinite love we have from our heavenly Father.   

As much as my dad loves me, there is no one who can love me more perfectly than my Father in heaven.  

"See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!"

1 John 3:1 (NLT)

"Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.  And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."

Romans 8:14-15(NIV)

“You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead?  Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not!  So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him."

Matthew 7:9-11 (NLT)

More Father's Day treats:

Click here to read a Father's Day devotion from Proverbs 31

Of Brides and Dads a post from our wedding photographer, Patricia Lyons

GOOOOOOAL!

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17

I started playing soccer with my big brother when I was 5 years old, and have been playing ever since. Perhaps the hardest lesson for me to learn while playing competitively was how to fully submit that commitment, that could bring such joy and despair, to the Lord who gave me the passion to play. Especially while playing in college, I did a terrible job of separating my physical health from my peace in Him, and often my time with the Lord suffered when I was injured or not performing well on the field. Too many games decided my mood more than God's truth. I often played for a greater feeling of self-worth or to please others... when the greatest motivation was simply in enjoying what the Lord gave me! Now, when I play and watch soccer I am reminded of what a precious gift my health is, what a fun blessing the sport is, and how much I have to learn in transforming the game into worship. We each have individual God-given passions and gifts, and must fight against ever worshipping that created thing rather than the Creator God. Whether you invest time and energy in your studies, work, or relationships, I pray that you can do it all FOR HIM.

In honor of the current World Cup Tournament in South Africa, my husband, Scott, and I filmed a short informational video for those of you who may find it difficult to get excited for this event of global significance.

(E-mail subscribers click to watch)

Soccer, and sport in general, is an international language and a critical medium for spreading the Good News. Here is one organization, connected with Athletes in Action, an organization I participated in while at Penn, that is working through the excitement of the World Cup to bring hope to South Africa: The Ultimate Goal.

If you want to test your espanish, check out the soccer ministry that I participated in while living in Buenos Aires: De La Mano Del Maestro (by the hand of the Master).

And the best gringo to ever shout a lengthy "goooooooal" would be Carl Kasell on last week's NPR show 'Wait Wait ... Don't Tell Me'. Listen at about 7 minutes into that segment.

Morning Jolt

Why is coffee so alluring?  I'll readily admit that the first thing I do each morning is pour myself a cup of coffee. 

Right now, coffee is one of my few constants. 

Each morning, it's there to greet me. 

It soothes my soul and warms my heart. 

It picks me up when I need a lift. 

It is the doorway to many conversations about love, life, and faith. 

And I've never met something that compliments a cookie so perfectly. 

But as wonderful as coffee is, does it love me back?  Can it listen to me?  Cry with me?  Bear my burdens?  Support me?

No. 

But I know One who can.  And rather than relying on coffee to get me through each day, it's time I shift my gaze away from the peaceful cup that draws me in each morning and begin to look a little bit higher. 

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."

Revelation 3:20

"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

Jeremiah 33:3

"I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.  Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand...Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings." 

Psalm 17:6-8

(Last two images from reallynatural.com and bakingbites.com)

Twitterific

I'm still not sure how I feel about Twitter.  Yes, I have an account, but I think I've tweeted less than 10 times in the past year.  I'm clearly not hip enough for Twitter.

There is, however, something fun about being forced to whittle an update, statement, or opinion into less than 140 characters.  Sometimes, less can be more.

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of JOY; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 

Psalm 16:11

 

For you twitter folk, you can subscribe to a daily scripture tweet here. 

Also, for the bargainistas, Trish Ryan has a By One Get One Free special going on at her blog. 

hooligans for Christ

I was excited about Elizabeth's challenge on Friday to spend 30 minutes with the Lord during the weekend. It was indeed a challenge, amidst having a good friend in town from Suriname and the World Cup fanfare. GO USA! and Argentina! Yes, I'll cheer for the USA if they were to meet in the semis.

I spent some time reading Psalm 86 and then with a Breakaway Ministries worship song in my head. Just meditating on the words gave focus to my time with Jesus.

Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth;

give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.

I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;

I will glorify your name forever.

Psalm 86:11-12

Give me one pure and holy passion, Give me one magnificent obsession

Give me one glorious ambition for my life, To know and follow hard after You

To know and follow hard after You, To grow as Your disciple in the truth

This world is empty, pale and poor, Compared to knowing You, my Lord

Lead me on and I will run after You, Lead me on and I will run after You

AND, this is a fun World Cup video that I watch and get excited, not just about how awesome the tournament is, but about how gloriously raucous it will be when all the nations focus their praise in one direction! How can you not get pumped from watching this?

All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name.

Psalm 86:9

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Philippians 3:20

The Desert

It's hard to believe that it's Monday morning already.  Weekend, where did you go?  Did anyone get the chance for some alone time?

Last week, via Sara Hagerty and Mary Stafford, I was led to the following quote that has since settled on my heart and refuses to leave:

“Desert life sanctifies you. You have no idea you are changing. You simply notice after you’ve been in the desert awhile that you are different.”

A Praying Life, by Paul Miller.

I love how even in the desert, God is able to meet us, draw us in, and transform us.  Some of my driest seasons are seasons that I would never take back, because in those pits, I encountered God in an intimate, and loving way.  Even in my wasteland, God is at work; making me increasingly aware of my need for Him and His vast love for me. 

Last week, Caroline shared about a dry season she's experienced and noted that even in the desert,  "I have been reminded and made aware –more than ever—of my acute need for Jesus.  I have been made more aware of my insatiable thirst that can only be quenched by Jesus—the Living Water.  So while it’s been hard, dry, and I have been weary, I am ever thankful that He led me into this place to remind me of my brokenness, my barrenness, without him."

 "See, I am doing a new thing!
       Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
       I am making a way in the desert
       and streams in the wasteland.

 The wild animals honor me,
       the jackals and the owls,
       because I provide water in the desert
       and streams in the wasteland,
       to give drink to my people, my chosen,

the people I formed for myself
       that they may proclaim my praise."

Isaiah 43:18-21 

Sweet Escape

When seeking rest and solace, do you ever look everywhere else but God?  Even this week, where my heart is longing for rest, nourishment, and solitude, I find myself running around in different directions to avoid the stillness.  It's as if I'm afraid to actually be alone.

The funny thing is, when I  finally shut down the computer, turn my cell phone off, and flee the distractions that haunt me; quiet and peace embrace me.  This stillness is where my heart can rest and I can meet God.

Yesterday, after wasting time for an hour, I finally forced myself into that quiet place.  While difficult at first, through journaling and prayer, I rested with God.  What started out as a bit awkward, quickly flew by.  Sixty minutes later, I stood up refreshed and rejuvenated, and leaving with a new perspective.  Why did I avoid that?

Of all the places my mind tries to tell me to flee—shopping, reality TV, celebrity gossip, facebook—my heart knows that the only escape that truly brings life is resting in the presence of God.  Yet somehow, that is often the last place I run.
  
Maybe it's just me, but if some inkling of you can relate, I challenge us to take thirty minutes this weekend and go somewhere out of the ordinary to meet with God.  No agenda, no pressure, just quiet our surroundings and be.  Be still and listen.  Be patient and wait.  Be expectant and know that He's there.

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
       my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation;
       he is my fortress, I will not be shaken...
Trust in him at all times, O people;
       pour out your hearts to him,
       for God is our refuge."
Psalm 62:5-6, 8

"In returning and rest you shall be saved; 

In quietness and confidence shall be your strength."

Isaiah 30:15

"Return to me,
       for I have redeemed you."

Isaiah 44:22

Guest Post From Caroline

 (Cally and Caroline at Meg's Wedding last summer)

This week, I stumbled upon one of Cally's best friends, Caroline McCain's blog, Growing in Grace.  It's amazing!

Caroline recently graduated from UNC, but for the sake of unity on Long To Love, we won't hold that against her.  She's working in Virginia Beach this summer and then getting ready to go into full time ministry this fall.  Hopefully, this won't be the last we hear from Caroline, because she's an amazing writer and she deeply desires to know more of God.  Caroline agreed to let us repost one of her recent blogs, so I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! 

Beautiful Mercy 
Originally Posted on April 22, 2010

I just started reading John Steinbeck’s East of Eden.  I’ve always loved his writing, his storytelling, but I’ve never read this work.  Why I’m picking it up right as finals are about to start, I have no idea.  But I’m 30 pages in and already engrossed.

He writes,

“And it never failed that during the dry years the people forgot about the rich years, and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years.  It was always that way.”

Oh how easy it is for me to forget the richness of the rainy season when I find myself in the desert!

This season has been a desert of sorts for me.  But in the wilderness, I have been reminded and made aware –more than ever—of my acute need for Jesus.  I have been made more aware of my insatiable thirst that can only be quenched by Jesus—the Living Water.  So while it’s been hard, dry, and I have been weary, I am ever thankful that He led me into this place to remind me of my brokenness, my barrenness, without him.

I’ve been listening to “Beautiful Mercy” by Laura Hackett on repeat for the last several weeks…

“Yes He’s brought me to this wilderness
where I will learn to sing
and He lets me know my barrenness
so I will learn to lean.”

(Email subscribers, click here)

Finding Rest

How amazing is Meg's song?  If you missed it, click here to listen.  Meg, I know that took a lot for you to share, so thanks for giving us a glimpse of your heart and sharing your musical talents with us.

This week, I'm deeply desiring is to rest and nourish my heart, but I'm also continually battling my heart's tendency to wander.  One thing I have begun doing is journaling, mainly because it's therapeutic, but also because it was an excuse to go shopping.  Check out the newest addition to my journal family.  Don't you love Amazon?

I've also found refreshment through music.  I visited my friend Caroline McCain's blog this week and learned of the fabulous musical talents of Joanna Reyburn May, who leads worship at the International House of Prayer.  She has incredible musical sets that are perfect for resting, soaking, and nourishing our hearts.  Here's a sample of some of her music called "I still want you" written by Jacob Hanly.  It's simple, relaxing, and full of an honest yearning for more of God. 




And because it makes my heart sing, here's Meg's song, "Dwelling," again too!



(Can you tell I'm excited I finally learned how to upload audio to the blog??)

Also, for another encouraging post about resting visit (in)courage.

And lastly, I know no one likes to be "Tardy for the Party" as Real Housewife of Atlanta Kim so eloquently points out, but one of my friends and heroes Trish Ryan started a 40 Days of Faith party on one of her blogs.  I don't have words to tell you how much I love Trish, her insights, and her writing, so you'll have to check it out on your own.  AND she has a new book coming out this month! 

Here's to resting!

"My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."

Psalm 62:1-2

 

mixmaster JC

How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty!

My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD;

my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Psalm 84:1-2

I loved being challenged by Elizabeth’s post yesterday, to turn my heart to the Lord and be refreshed in practical ways. (and being challenged to STOP singing groove is in the heart). Yesterday morning I also read Psalm 84, and realized how much my yearning for the Lord had been stifled in the past two weeks. I started my summer internship two weeks ago, and quickly succumbed to the morning rush - slash- post-work/class zone-out - slash - other lame excuses that distance me from my Father. I was reminded that I am a less effective wife, friend, law clerk, driver, etc. when my heart is malnourished. The past several days I still listened to worship while driving and prayed with Scott before we parted ways for work, but nothing beats the solitude and reflection that Elizabeth mentioned yesterday. Even if others don’t notice a difference in whether or not I sat before the Lord on a particular morning, I notice that my joy throughout the day is so much greater when I am meditating on His presence and truth. 

God has much to reveal and much to pour into me, if I would only connect my heart to his. Dallas Willard, speaks about the easy yoke, referenced yesterday in Matthew 11, that "...in our efforts to avoid the necessary pains of discipline we miss the easy yoke and light burden." We may have to discipline ourselves to be still or to pray continuously, but it is through those disciplines that we get to experience the love, authority, and wisdom in Christ. Yes, you must take time to make an appointment, commute to and pay the salon to get a mani/pedi, but that doesn't negate the benefit of said pampering. 

Reading Psalm 84 also reminded me of our dwelling series in March, and how I was able to process that teaching through journaling and music. Writing out and meditating on verses is a powerful method for me to silence all but God’s word. I wrote a song about what I was learning at that time and in responding to Psalm 62:1-2 that says “ My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.”

Press play to hear a rough recording
(Email subscribers click here)

been here some time, it's been a while now. thought this was my home. but things are changin doors are closin round me. it's time to move on from the comfort of stagnancy. things are changin doors are opening

my soul finds rest in you alone, you are my fortress, my salvation

i'll pour out my heart to you, my refuge, i'll not be shaken

you’ve spoken softly to guide me through these wanderings. found peace in what i cannot see. and there's hope abounding in your presence, oh clarity. found peace beyond understanding

...pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8

Since, then you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above...

Colossians 3:1

Groove Is In The Heart

I don't know about you, but I am an overzealous multitasker.  On Saturday, we were rushing to get out the door for a wedding, and I found myself attempting to brush my teeth, shave my legs, and curl my hair at the same time.  Needless to say, it was NOT as flawless as I envisioned, but it opened my eyes to see how often I try to do too many things at once and none of them end up being successful.  It's so easy to stretch ourselves too thin.

This morning, I was reading Strong Women, Soft Hearts (my favorite book of 2010) and Paula Rinehart related this tendency to our relationships.  As women, we try so hard to be so many things to all kinds of different people—families, friends, coworkers, etc.—that we often forget to take care of our own hearts.

Paula relates this to the amount of time and money we spend on all kinds of lotions, potions, and serums for our skin to make us look younger.  And points out that "So much time and attention goes to the external stuff.  It makes me thing: Am I giving this much attention to my inner life, to my own heart?"

The Bible speaks of being selfless and serving others, so the idea of caring for ourselves may seem counterintuitive, but Paula argues that, "you can't really love other people well unless you are home in your own soul."   

So this week, I want to make it a priority to care for my heart.  Not out of selfishness, but because when my I'm taking care of my heart, it enables me to love God and love others more appropriately.

Where does this begin?

One thing Paula recommends is journaling and allowing the pen to speak to the condition of your heart.  She references CS Lewis when he says, "Whenever you are fed up with life, start writing: ink is the great cure for all human ills, as I have found out long ago."

She also recommends practicing solitude and allowing yourself a little space to simply be.  I tend to avoid complete solitude, but there is a tranquility I discover when I remove myself from my environment, quiet the noise that typically surrounds me, and practice being still.

A big one, and another one I avoid, is sharing your heart with others.  Take a friend to coffee and make an effort to go below the surface and be known.  We can't be afraid to share the condition of our hearts with those closest to us.

Other ideas?  Go on a walk/run, take a bubble bath, read, pray, rest.

What about you?  When it comes to our hearts, what are some other effective ways we can be at home in our own soul?

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

Matthew 11:28-29 (NKJV)

"I have set the LORD continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.  Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will dwell securely...You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever."

Psalm 16:8-9, 11 (New American Standard Bible) 

More posts inspired by Paula Rinehart:
Holding Out Hope
Falling Backwards Into God's Goodness
Stumbling Upon Trust


PS:  Sorry about the broken link last Friday.  Click here to read "The Never Forsaking God" by Oswald Chambers.
 

A Little Ozzy And A Little Dancing

Today, I am leaving you in the hands of someone who knows what he's talking about. Oswald, take it away!

AND, if that's not enough, in following last Friday's tradition of posting overly viewed youtube videos that are past their prime, I give you another small video, that brings me great happiness! The original AND The Office remake. I know, I know, I spoil you!

E-mail subscribers click here.

The Next Best Thing To Ruby Red Slippers

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Okay, so we already established that I'm not one for change, but in life, change is inevitable.  AND, while change might take some readjusting,  not all change is bad.

I give you exhibit A:

Beautiful ivory wedding shoes whose fate was simply for one special day.  When lo and behold, their bride had another plan.  A plan to extend their life and give them the chance to experience additional parties for years to come...


Ta-dah! 

It was love at first sight.  These shoes were made to be danced in.  And if I'm really honest, I'll probably wear them around the apartment on days when I need a little pick me up.  How can one not feel instantly better while wearing magenta shoes with bows and rhinestones?   

See?  Not all change is terrible.

Fortunately, when it comes to the unknown, not only is God a faithful constant, but He also promises to lead us and guide us.

When I arrived at college, I was terrified of the unknown.  During my first month, I stumbled upon a verse that has since become a constant companion to me in the midst of uncertainty.

"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them."

Isaiah 42:16

Even in the midst of uncertainty and transitions, God is with us and He is faithful to guide us along the uncharted path.

Consistency We Can Believe In

(Graduation Day, 2006 with Josie and Megan)

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." 

Hebrews 13:8

This weekend as Cally and her friends graduated I was unexpectedly emotional as I watched them prepare to part ways. Not only was I proud of my little sister and sad her journey was coming to an end, but it also brought back memories of  my own graduation four years ago. (It really is all about me, you know...just kidding, Cally.)

I was in denial about college ending and couldn't even bring myself to pack up my apartment. I made my brother stay with me two extra days because I wasn't ready to leave Charlottesville and face the real world.   

I've never been one for change.  My heart longs for consistency and for things to stay the same.  Usually when my life is on the brink of change, I tend to shut down emotionally, because I don't know the best way to handle it.

One simple truth I often forget through transition is that our God stays the same.  As our lives move in and out of various seasons, His promises and His truths remain the same.  In the midst of change, God is our constant.

"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." 

Isaiah 40:8

"For I am the LORD, I do not change; Therefore you are not consumed."

Malachi 3:6

Go Tigers!

  (Cally and some of her Bible study girls on spring break)

Aren't these girls precious?  Today, along with their fellow Princetonians, they are graduating college and preparing to enter the real world.  This is my second sibling to graduate college since I did, and each time I get a little more nostalgic; wishing I could go back.  Oh College, how I miss you!  

In honor of their big day, I wanted to re-post something my brother Willis wrote two years ago when he was getting ready to enter the real world.  

Congratulations girls!   

The Answer is Longing

By Willis Robertson

Originally Posted on March 16, 2008

 

“The Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion”
Isaiah 30:18 (NIV)

“O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.  I have seen you in your sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.  Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.”

Psalm 63:1-3 (NIV)

For the first time in my life I am about to enter the period when I no longer know the next step.  Up to this point the biggest question in my life has been where I was going to college, not if I was to go, but where to go.  Starting May 18th, I no longer know what the next step will be, where I’ll be living, or what I’ll be doing.  Until just a few days ago, this period has caused a great fear.  While it is an exciting time, there is also a fear of the unknown.

I spent this past weekend in Los Angeles interviewing and exploring the city trying to decide if I could live in the “big city.”  On the plane ride out there I listened to a sermon that has completely changed my thinking and my heart during this process.

I don’t know if any of you have ever flown west during the late evening as the sun sets, but it is amazing.  I was blessed with a window seat during a 2-hour sunset.  Every time I looked out it seemed to change from dark pink to orange to red back to the pink.  Occasionally it would disappear behind the clouds, but it would return even more beautiful.  As I sat staring out the window in wonder, I began to think about the glory and the beauty of the Lord; how powerful He is; and the fact that the God of the universe with infinite power and beauty also longs for me, personally.  He longs for me and my heart!  How incredible is that?  The God of the universe longs for you, and longs for us to long after Him.  Why would we not long for companionship and love with Him?  What keeps us from consistently longing for His presence and an encounter with Him?  This is how we were created: to long for Him!

This idea of longing for Christ reminds me of a time when I was frustrated as a boy and ran away barefoot. (Little did I know the mistake it was to walk barefoot on newly paved asphalt).  Within minutes I came running back to the house crying and upset, not because my feet were hot, but because no one came after me.  My parents knew I would come back because I was barefoot, but I wanted them to miss me and long for me so much that minutes without me would cause them to chase after me.  This is what God’s longing is like, and how our longing for Him should be.  He doesn’t want us to take off on foot, but He will long for our return.

I returned because I longed for my parents to come after me.  I had experienced their presence, and was sick without them.  I couldn’t stand to be away from them.  When we long for the Lord we can’t stand being away from His presence and the return is so sweet, you wish you had never left.  The longing continues, however, as we long for more and more of Him.  How great is that, we can never get enough, no matter how hard we try and how much our heart aches for Him, there will still be more of Him to long for!

Nothing else matters—not a job, not a location, no experience—if we don’t long for Him.  If we live a life longing for Him, He will provide us with answers, by providing us with the desires of our heart. (Psalm 37:4)  There is nothing we can do to fight the love He has for us all we can do is long for Him.  No search on our own gives us answers.  As we long for Him and encounter Him, He will respond by satisfying the desires of our hearts. 

As I stop stressing about the next step and begin to long for Him, He will show me where He wants me.  He will open doors and He will also close them, and as I long for Him I will know in confidence that I will be where the Lord wants me. (Isaiah 22:22)

Our answer?  Long and ache in that secret place for encounter with Him, and He will respond provoking us to long for more and more of Him!  Why would we not do this?

Lord Jesus, I deeply desire to long for you!  With all that I am, I pray that I will have a heart dedicated to longing for you and loving you more and more each day.  Only you can satisfy my heart.  Only you can provide me with the desires of my heart.  As I continue to know you more, I pray that my heart will never stop longing for you.  I pray that my soul will yearn for you in the night; and my spirit will long for you in the morning (Isaiah 26:9).  Lord Jesus, I deeply desire to love you!  Thank you for the incredible way that you long for me and love me unconditionally!