“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” (Jer 33:3 NKJV)
What is the first thing we typically do when we face a problem or a situation we do not know how to handle? Isn’t the first call normally to our spouse, best friend, parent, mentor, or business partner? There is absolutely nothing wrong with consulting trusted voices. However, as Christians we know who has ALL the answers.
Shouldn’t our first call be to God?
Our earthly calls can go unanswered. Even if answered, the counsel given, may not be the BEST. Our Creator, Lord and Savior, simple says, “Call me. I will answer.” Not only that! He says, “I will show you what you do not know, great and mighty things!” If God promises to show us the big things we don’t know, don’t you think He will show us the little things we don’t know, too?
I hear the questions we all ask, and His response.
What’s going on in this crazy world? Call Me, first. -Not the news.
My baby is sick or has been exposed to sickness. Call Me, first.-Not you’re your Mama.
Should we buy this house? Call Me, first. -Not your best friend.
Why is the United States friends with Israel? Call Me, first. -Not Facebook, X, nor Instagram
What is my purpose in life? Call Me, first. -Not everyone else.
What should I do? Call Me, first.
Our questions are infinite, but guess what, so are His answers. He knows all. He understands all. He is the Way for every direction. He is the Truth for every doubt. He is the Life for every physical, mental, and spiritual need.
And He promises to answer.
Three years ago, I asked God a hard question. He answered. I did not like the answer, but that is not His promise. He just promises to answer. Early THIS morning, I was listening to a preacher. God used him to further answer my difficult question from three years ago.
Sad thing, the answer came straight from His word. It was there all along, written in black and white. If I had sought Him a little bit harder and a little bit longer, He would have shown me then.
“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” (Jer 29:13 NLT)
“Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually.” (1Ch 16:11 KJV)
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right–the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. (Mat 6:33 AMP)
Call Him. Look for Him. Seek Him. Have faith in Him because “without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Heb 11:6 NKJV)
Wait for Him. He will answer and reward the Callers and the Seekers. (That’s you and I if we are obedient to call and seek Him!)
I enCOURAGE you: Next time you do not know what to do or what is going on, reach out to our Heavenly Father. He has every answer.
The LORD has done great things for us, [And] we are glad. Psalms 126:3 (NKJV)
Last Friday, I officially stepped into my 60s!
How can I even begin to describe the days leading up to, and the wonder that unfolded over, my birthday weekend? It felt like a beautifully crafted film, complete with a flawless script. While I played a small role in the unfolding story, it was my incredible husband, precious family, and dear friends who produced and directed Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love. It was a masterpiece of love, a multitude of surprises, and unforgettable moments.
It all began on April 5th with a celebratory girls trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico with my lifelong best friends who welcome the same milestone in 2025. We arrived to a snowy, thirty-degree, Santa Fe. Four days later, we departed to a temp that was forty-three degrees higher.
We feasted, sipped, wondered, prayed, and laughed loudly. We explored churches, museums, and browsed shops from downtown to Canyon Road. We cherished every moment. At Gusterman Silversmiths, I discovered a dazzling 18kt gold, six carat emerald, pearl pendant that sparkled with impossible allure and a whopping $17,000 dollar price tag! I teased and sent a pic to my husband and friend who had recommended the jeweler, “I found my birthday gift!” I decided on a more realistic silver and gold dotted heart pendant. it was an incredible way to kick off our milestone year.
My actual birthday month of May kicked off with a “luxury-experience” dinner at Eddie V’s in Nashville with good friends on the eve of the APSU Candlelight Ball. We have frequented this restaurant and always enjoyed, however, this time, I think Eddie V’s mistook us for another party. We were treated like royalty at a Michelin-starred eatery. We were seated at the best table overlooking Broadway. Our waiter attended to us like we were the only souls in the room. The chef created a perfect amuse-bouche for our table, not found on any menu. Our Captain, the true maestro of the evening, orchestrated every detail with grace. He also surprised us with extra sides, personally chose and gifted the table with a variety of desserts. We left that evening stunned. It was evening that I have not experienced anywhere else in the world.
The morning after the ball, we flew south to Sawgrass on shores of Ponte Vedra Beach. The weather was near perfect, the sands were quiet and nearly deserted. It felt like our own private paradise.
We spent our days digging on the beach, laughing, and sharing meals with my nephew, niece-in-love, and our two high spirited great-nephews. Everywhere we dined, I proclaimed, “It’s my birthday” with a wink and a smile. (P.S. This is not how I usually operate nor celebrate.)
We loved our time away, but happily arrived home to a Mother’s Day blessing. Our granddaughter was dedicated to the Lord. My youngest son, thoughtful as ever, planned a delectable brunch for his wife and me. My eldest and his sweet wife sent a precious pic of our grandkids. It was a capture of pure joy in a frame. They also gifted me my next salon visit.
Just three days later, I was fortunate to visit my eldest son, daughter-in-love, and GRANDson for a few days of laughter, love, and play before out next grand’s arrival.
I share these memories to recount how richly blessed and full of celebration my birthday month was. And, to lay the groundwork for all that was yet to unfold.
Here is where the plot began to twist and turn. Kris concocted a tale about a birthday dinner in Nashville on Friday, May 30th. But first, he said, we had to make a brief stop to celebrate a friend who shares my day. Then came the sudden shift: “Oops,” he said, “Plans changed—we are actually going Saturday.”
Many little things did not quite align. I began to suspect that something was up, but I had no idea the depths of his deceptive plan.
I questioned why Mom and Lennie decided to “drop by” on their way to Boston to celebrate my birthday. This meant an extra leg to their journey. We welcomed their arrival and picked them up on Wednesday prior to my day. We shared a wonderful dinner at one of my favorite Nashville spots. Thursday we just relaxed.
Friday morning came. It was my actual birthday! Kris rose early and decorated my office and coffee bar with sweet little birthday signs. While he went to work, we went out for a celebratory breakfast and a little shopping.
When we arrived home, I was surprised with a magnificent bouquet of my favorite-colored flowers from my dad and Linda. It was a huge floral hug. Texts, calls and Facebook well wishes overwhelmingly flowed in throughout the day. My heart was truly overwhelmed with gratitude.
However, something was off. I did not receive ONE card nor gift in the mail. This was highly unusual.
One of my best friends laughingly explained from her mountain cabin that she had mailed my gift to herself. (I thought there must not be a surprise party because Pam would be here.) My other bestie, typically the earliest to send something, had gone silent. She had even mentioned bringing back something special for me from Africa. And my third bestie, ever thoughtful, simply suggested we meet for lunch the following week…somewhere halfway between Knoxville and Cookeville.
OK…I smiled. I nodded. But quietly, I thought… how very strange. Something was up. I just could not figure it out.
Since were celebrating on Saturday, I chose a casual Mexican meal Friday night. While at dinner, our youngest called and invited us over so that my mom and Lennie could see their home.
SURPRISE #1: Parker, Caroline and Harper greeted us at the door with a big, beautiful chocolate and peanut butter cake. Brayden, Mary Claire, and Jack were Facetiming. All were singing, “Happy Birthday!” For a moment, I thought my Memphis family was going to pop out from hiding, but that did not happen.
Kris led me to the couch with mischief was in his eyes. He explained to me a crazy story of how Brayden’s family was coming to meet us on Saturday. However, MC was so late into her pregnancy, they had decided not to make the trip.
Then he instructed, “Close your eyes and hold out my hands.” I did. “You will need to wear this where we’re going tomorrow,” he added, placing something carefully into my palms.
SURPRISE #2. I opened my eyes—and gasped.
Resting in my hands was what I thought was the 17,000-dollar emerald pendant I had found in New Mexico. SHOCKED and DISMAYED was an understatement!!! I think I exclaimed, “Y’all have LOST YOUR MINDS!!!”
Plot twist, the Santa Fe jeweler refused to negotiate. So, in true cinematic fashion, my husband and mother had conspired to have a replica made.
WHEW and WOW!
What a surprise! They got me! It was still a very extraordinary and wildly extravagant gift. I was undone. No words. (Heartfelt thanks to our “family jeweler, “ Elliot Herzlich who brought the vision to life in record time.)
Late Friday night, my heart was full, and my thoughts were swirling. I expressed my deep gratitude. I told Kris how I had imagined “this and that” might happen—and how thankful I was that none of it had. No big party, no grand spectacle.
I told him we DID NOT have to go to Nashville for dinner. We could stay right here in Clarksville. He had done more than enough—and then some.
But then Saturday arrived.
Since Nashville was cancelled, I chose a quiet spot for dinner. Simple. Familiar. Easy. However, as the day unfolded, Kris suggested a change of plans. Parker and Caroline, he said, had eaten at my chosen locale for lunch. WHAT? Really? That seemed odd.
He suggested Rafferty’s which closer to where we supposedly needed to stop by a friend’s birthday gathering before dinner. I did not like that idea and he succumbed to my original choice. I wanted to leave Mom and Lennie at home and swing back for them afterward, just to simplify the evening.
Kris was not budging. He said, “That’s crazy. We’re all going together.”
Off we went to “the other party.” I strongly suggested that Mom and Lennie should stay downstairs. It was not our party and I thought it rude for them to come up. Kris oddly said, “They can come up, use restroom and stay outside.”
I was irritated and thought, “WHATEVER!”
We stepped in the elevator, and I tried to calm myself. Shortly, the doors glided open to reveal…
SURPRISE #3: All my children and grandkids were waiting with big, sneaky smiles. I was dumbfounded and elated. THE BEST GIFT! My heart was full!
My sister-in-law, Kim, was filming in the corner. WHAT? The plot thickened. My husband, Mr. Executive Director had lied, repeatedly. He led me toward a closed door where for a moment I expected only to see the little circle of our immediate family waiting.
SURPRISE #4: The door opened to a large room FULL of smiling family and friends singing, “Happy Birthday.” I froze in amazement, completely undone and overwhelmed. The only words I could utter were “liars, liars, liars.” A welcome sign greeted me, as well as a table of cards, gifts and individually wrapped cookies. My closest friends engulfed me at the front of the long room. I was sashed, crowned, given a new Stanley, full of water and lime, my signature drink.
I was in absolute shock! Shock! SHOCK!
I moved through the room in a daze– hugging and trying to greet everyone all at once. “What in the world?” It seemed like a thousand hearts of friend and family swallowed me. The love I felt was palpable. I had NO WORDS.
Many asked if I was mad at Kris because of my stunned reaction. NO. I was simply suspended in a surreal place in time. (Even now, a week later I am still processing. I am floating between unbelief and deepest gratitude.)
The tables lit up with everyone’s smiles and were adorned with the most beautiful, bountiful bouquets of my favorite flowers. Loved ones filled every corner! A buffet of deliciousness awaited the guests. And then as I turned the corner at the far end of the hall, still making my way from each loving face to the next…
SURPRISE #5: A PHOTO BOOTH! Kris had thought of everything and more. It was too much!!! When I thought the afternoon had offered all it could…
SURPRISE#6: A carefully curated playlist of all my favorite songs, as well as photos from most of my life filled the room. Memories of my 60 years flooded the small space between my two ears. My brain was near explosion. Then…
SURPRISE #7: My sons and husband stood before me. They delivered their gentle, kind, loving tributes. Sentiments that will stay with me for a lifetime. They spoke straight from their hearts into mine. I will never forget.
SURPRISE #8: In his speech, Kris shared how he, my closest friends and my mother-in-love joined forces to gather birthday card greetings from near and far of those who could not attend the party.
SURPRISE#9: Kris also told me that In lieu of gifts, he had asked our guests to donate to Now I lay Me Down To Sleep in memory of Eleanor Grace Crockett, my great niece, my birthday twin in heaven. What a precious gift honoring life, love, and loss, so delicately woven into the celebration
SURPRISE#10: The celebration did not end. Our immediate family and inner circle of friends gathered again at Parker and Caroline’s for an after party where we ate more birthday cake and kept laughing.
SURPRISE #11: After the surprise party on Sunday, an organic, unplanned, unscripted, very pleasant breakfast unfolded on our deck, with my besties before they left town.
SURPRISE #12: And finally…
EVERYTHING! EVERY DETAIL! Every card, every smile, every flower, every guest. Every donation. Every thoughtful gift. Every surprise. Every single act of love. Everything!
It was ALL the greatest gift! It was beautiful and unforgettable. I have never felt so celebrated, cherished, and loved. THANK YOU BIG TO ALL who had a part in Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love!
I know! This post seems so self-indulgent, but it was so important for me to share with you the great love of my husband, family, and friends. I began the month feeling like a celebrity and ended the month feeling like a SUPER STAR. More importantly, I have never felt so celebrated, cherished, and loved in my entire life. I am finally moving from shock and being completely overwhelmed to the place of processing it all. The tears are flowing. Again, I really cannot thank my husband enough and ALL who played a part in Lala’s 60th: The Birthday of Extravagant Love
Final thoughts, my heart is still in overflow mode! You know what is just unfathomable to me? God ordained every detail of what I have written. It was in written in my book of life before I was ever born. God loves ME and YOU that much, and more than all these acts of love. He loves so BIG it is just hard to grasp. That is what all this celebration has showed me. He loves us all more and He is always up for a celebration made. Thought…Every day in heaven is someone’s birthday and know no one can throw a party like God. If you don’t know Jesus and your Lord and Savior, I would be happy to introduce you to LOVE because God is Love.
RUN THE CREDITS:
Executive Director: Storyteller, Writer and Party Planner Extraordinaire : Kris Phillips
Production Company and Film Financier: Kris Phillips and Family, Inc.
Executive Producer: Kris Phillips
Associate Producers : Kris Phillips, Brayden Phillips, Mary Claire Phillips, Parker Phillips, Caroline Phillips, Jack, Harper, Henry, Marie Poon, Bobbe Gillis, Kristi Stephens, Gina Suiter, and Pam Verma
Production Design: Kris Phillips
Lead Cast: Kris Phillips, family, and the greatest friends
Music Composers: Kris Phillips, Bobbe Gillis, and Pam Verma
Playlist Producer: Parker Phillips
Floral Designer: Mary Claire Phillips
Floral Designer: Assistant: Jack Phillips
Cookie Designer: Mary Claire Phillips
Floral and Cookie Design Support: Brayden Phillips
Pre and Post Cast Party: Parker, Caroline, and Harper Phillips
Director of Photography: Kris Phillips and Kim Rye
Assistant Photographers: Marie Poon and Carol Clark
I misplaced my crossbody wallet for over 24 hours. I prayed and asked for help. Help came in the form of a vision. I know that sounds a little wild, but in that in-between state of sleep and wakefulness, I saw my bag Sitting on a shelf, its thin strap dangling.
I had already searched the house, the garage, two refrigerators, and the pantries—inside and out. I had looked on every shelf and nothing. I was about to give up and leave the house with just my phone when I glanced across the garage. There it was a rarely used shelf. I saw my bag.
When I told my husband about my bag, he said, “We are all about the win.” I replied, “A victory does not have to be a win, but a win is a double victory.”
Let that sink in!
“Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1Co 15:57 NKJV)
But God…“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. (Eph 3:20 NKJV)
God doesn’t just give us victory—He gives us exceedingly abundantly. That’s the double. That’s the win.
I don’t know if there was an ever a fiercer competitor than Jesus Christ himself. He was and is the Ultimate Winner
He took on a lost bag and He won. He took on temptation and won. He took on sickness and won. He took on sorrow and grief and He won. He took on the government and won. He took on offense and won. He took on unrighteousness and won. He took on sin and won. He took on the cross and won. He took on death and won!
Who among us can say that we lived an entire lifetime, undefeated? The only player I know that can make this claim is the Greatest of All Time, THE COMPETITOR, Jesus Christ.
I enCOURAGE your with the words of Paul, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NKJV) Join the winning team! Choose Jesus. He remains undefeated.
I did not want to rise early yesterday! If I hadn’t listened to the still small voice, “Just look out the window.” I would have missed a glorious sun rise!
I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands.(Psalm 119:60 NLT)
In our fast-paced world, we’re often encouraged to pause and weigh every option before taking action. I believe discernment is wise, BUT in one area delay can be disobedience. It is in our response to God’s asks.
What is Immediate Obedience? Immediate obedience means responding to God’s instructions the moment He speaks without hesitation, excuses, or delay. It is not partial or delayed compliance. It’s a “yes” that runs with speed and trust.
Think about Abraham. When God told him to offer Isaac: “Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey…” (Genesis 22:3 NIV) There was no record of questioning, debating, or stalling. He just obeyed…immediately.
Delayed obedience is still disobedience. We may comfort ourselves with the thought, “I will obey… later.” Delayed obedience can be a form of rebellion. My will might be to do it when. “I will,” not when God wills.
Didn’t you love it when you asked your kids to do something, and they stopped and did it? You did not have to ask multiple times—that’s immediate obedience. How often did that happen? How often are we that quick to obey God?
Immediate obedience matters because it is the very least we can do for God Who gave up His only son Jesus for us.
Immediate obedience honors God’s authority in our lives. When we obey immediately, we show that God’s voice is supreme in our lives. Like Peter, who dropped his nets instantly when Jesus called. “Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” (Matthew 4:20 CSB)
Immediate obedience positions us for blessing. Obedience unlocks divine favor and timing. Delayed obedience may cause us to miss a perfectly divine appointment with God.
Immediate obedience builds spiritual sensitivity to Holy Spirit’s leading. The more we respond quickly, the more attuned we become to His voice. The more we delay, the more dull we become.
How do we become “Immediately Obedient” people?
• Stay in God’s word. Scripture trains our hearts to recognize and respond to His will. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 AMP)
• Pray for a soft heart. Ask God to make you quick to obey with no delay. “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Hebrews 3:15 CSB)
• Listen to the still quiet voice who guides your heart. Obedience in the small things trains us for the big assignments.
• Resolutely decide to be obedient.
IO.U.= Immediate obedience to You. It is the very least we can do for God. He breathed life into us and gave up the life of His only son for our salvation. It is not because we are forced, but because we love Him. “If you love me, you will keep my commands.” John 14:15 CSB)
I enCOURAGE you to respond like Isaiah: “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) No delay. No debate. Just obedience.
“Do everything without murmuring or questioning [the providence of God]…” (Philippians 2:14 AMP)
(PS…This last verse has only come up about 4 times in the last two days. Think God is trying to teach me a lesson…again? Apply duck tape to mouth!
I was impatiently sitting in a waiting room last week and was a little inspired, if you can believe it.
Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! (Psa 27:14 NKJV)
“I love to wait,” said no one, ever! Waiting is NEVER easy. Waiting rooms are usually uncomfortable and unattractive spaces. I have never wanted to spend any extended period of time in the waiting area. How about you ?
Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in God’s waiting room? Whether it’s a doctor’s office, an unanswered prayer, or a promise that feels delayed, we often find ourselves in the uncomfortable in-between—what I like to call “the waiting room.” It’s the space between where we are and where we long to be. We are praying, hoping, asking—and yet the doors remain closed. The wait can feel endless.
What if the waiting room is not just a place of delay? What if it’s a place of preparation?
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint. (Isa 40:31 KJV)
This verse reminds us that waiting on God isn’t passive. It is not about twiddling our thumbs until something happens. It is active. It is about trusting. Waiting is an act of faith, where we believe that God’s timing is better than our own.
Waiting builds endurance. Waiting builds trust. Waiting allows space for transformation.
Abraham waited for a promised son. Joseph waited in a prison cell. David waited in the fields to become king. Jesus waited thirty years before stepping into His ministry. Each of these men went through a “waiting room,” and each time, God was doing something deeper than what was visible.
Are you sitting in your own waiting room? Are you waiting for healing, for a plan, for clarity, for breakthrough? Be encouraged. God is in the middle of the silence with you. He is preparing you for something greater.
The LORD [is] good unto them that wait for him, to the soul [that] seeks him. [It is] good that [a man] should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD. (Lam 3:25-26 KJV))
I enCOURAGE YOU to be heart fixed. Let the waiting room become your worship room. Let it be where your faith deepens, your hope is pollinated, and your heart becomes aligned with His. Know that in the waiting, He is working!
I remembered this photo Lisa took over five years ago. It was a pic of how I felt when I got it! Photo credit: Lisa Kimmer, Clarksville, TN
“We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 CSB)
Pastor Freddy T’s Easter sermon got my spirt wheels turning when He shared how the worst events of Jesus’ life were used to bring about God’s greater good. It was a “light bulb” moment and the sermon sent me to a place of deep reflection. Romans 8:28 can seem to be just a hopeful promise. How could ALL really work together for good? How could pain, suffering, betrayal, or death work together for good? How could loss of a child work together for good? As Christians we can find the answer at the center of our faith, the death and resurrection of Jesus, God’s only son.
If God could use Jesus’ death and resurrection for good, then I know He truly could work all things together for good to those who love Him. If He used death to bring life, He could use my friends flooded home. If He used death to heal the world, He could weave illness into His purpose. If He used death to write salvation’s story, He absolutely could use all things together for good to those who love Him.
For a minute consider the crucifixion. This had to be one of the worst days ever. On that dark day, Jesus, the only sinless man to ever walk on planet earth, was betrayed, falsely accused, spat on, brutally beaten, and nailed to the cross to die. His crucifixion was an injustice! It was a moment of discouragement and despair for His disciples. It seemed like Satan had locked in a victory and the promised kingdom of God had come to an end.
But GOD! “It was finished,” but it wasn’t! It was just the beginning!
What seemed like defeat became the greatest victory, the greatest good, ever. Jesus’ death was recompense for every sin ever committed. His resurrection destroyed the power of death forever. Horrific Golgotha brought about the ultimate good! It delivered salvation to all who believe Jesus Christ to be their Savior and Lord.
If God could use Jesus’ death on the cross, the most dreadful and unjust happening imaginable for good, then He can undeniably use ANY trial or circumstance in our lives for His good.
His resurrection does not just instruct us that good can come. It shows us that good will come. The empty tomb is proof that pain is not pointless, death is not the end for us, and God IS a Promise-maker and a Promise-keeper.
Romans 8:28 doesn’t say all things are good, but that all things work together for good. The cross was not good in any way, but through it, God brought the greatest good. We can trust that the same God who raised Jesus from the dead is working in ALL things for our good, too.
I enCOURAGE you to believe “that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” If you are walking through a season that doesn’t make sense, you are full of questions, your heart is breaking, or you are in the “wait,” remember the cross. Remember “what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the mighty working of his strength. He exercised this power in Christ by raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens” (Eph 1:19-20 CSB). Remember that God didn’t stop working on Friday. Sunday came and because of Jesus’ work, your story is not finished.
You are complete (and being completed) in Him. He is still writing your story. The very same God who turned the darkest day into the brightest light of hope is the same One working with the same power on your behalf today!
Trust Him. Your light is coming! He’s not done yet!
“No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13 CSB)
Have you ever had someone do something so nice for you that it was almost unbelievable? Maybe a stranger paid for your groceries when you were short on cash, or a friend showed up exactly when you needed them the most. Those moments stick with us…they feel like gifts we didn’t earn, moments of grace in the middle of chaos.
Now, imagine someone doing something so selfless, so loving, and so transformational that it didn’t just help you for a moment, but for eternity.
That’s what Jesus did.
I am humbled every time I remember the sacrificial offering Jesus made for me and you. He was born a baby just like you and me. As a young boy, He grew in grace and wisdom as He studied the word of God. He worked as a carpenter until he began His ministry. He was a human in every sense, but He was also the Son of God who stepped from heaven into time, clothed Himself in flesh, and walked among us to die. How do you put into words the weight of such love, the depth of such sacrifice, the beauty of such grace?
What Can I say about the Man who died for me?
He walked out a life of radical love. He healed the broken, embraced the outcasts, and spoke truth with authority and compassion. But more than that, He came with a mission to reconcile us to God by exchanging His life for ours.
He was betrayed by the ones closest to Him. He was spat on, insulted, mocked, shamed, bound, slapped, and whipped beyond recognition. He died willingly. He didn’t die a victim but a victor. He chose to be nailed to the cross, knowing the cost. He died for my sin and my shame. He died for every lie, every failure, and every regret I’ve carried. He took it all, but because He loved me that much.
What Can I say about the Man who died for me?
I can say He found me when I was lost. He was my Light in my darkest hours. He taught me how to anchor my heart in boundless faith in Him enough to overcome and silence every assaulting fear. I can say He showed me how to be bold, courageous, and unshaken in battle. He gave me peace when my world was chaos. I can say He forgave me when I couldn’t forgive myself. He gave me hope when I was deep in the mire of desperation. I can say He encompassed me with infinite love and compassion. He gave me purpose, and a future.I can say His life, death and resurrection changed everything. The Creator of the universe chose to die in my place so I could live in freedom, peace, and relationship with Him forever. It’s almost unbelievable, right? And yet, it’s true. Jesus died for me, and he died for you!
All these words feel way too small. The truth is, Jesus is more than anything I could ever describe. He is more than Wonderful! He is the Possible to my impossible. He is Life, Love and Joy. He is King of Kings, Savior, Redeemer, and my Best Friend. He is the reason I live. He is the reason I love. He is the One I believe. He is my Forever.
So, what can I say about Jesus, the man who died for me? Thank You, Lord. I’ll spend my life trying to say it well.
I enCOURAGE you to follow the Man who died for me because He died for you, too. He is knocking. Invite Him in. He will change your life!
If you’ve ever wondered if you’re truly loved… you are.
If you’ve ever questioned whether your life has purpose… it does.
And if you’ve ever felt like you’re too far gone for a fresh start… you’re not.
Jesus’ death is the most powerful and transformative “nice thing” anyone’s ever done for me. It changed everything and that’s what I can say about the Man who died for me!
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14 NKJV)
I was recently reading through the exhortations in 1 Thessalonians 5. When I reached verse fourteen, I came to a sudden, unexpected stop. The words hit me like a ton of bricks
1. Warn those who are unruly, out of order, those deviating from the prescribed rule of order. You know-the ones that are out of line. (CHECK, I got this!)
2. Comfort the fainthearted, feeble minded, those short of the breath of life and struggling with life. Check! I got this one)
3. Uphold the weak, feeble, sick, the ones who are not strong to stand on their own. (Check! No problem.)
4. Be patient with all. (Do you hear the sound of my screeching brakes?)
Being patient with everyone is a BIG request. Right? I read 1 Thessalonians 5:14, again. I laughed loud at the last part and in my head voice said, “I can’t do that!”
To be patient is to be of a long spirit. It means do not lose heart, persevere, to bravely endure misfortunes and troubles and to bear the offenses and injuries of others without breaking.
We are to be patient with EVERYONE?
• We are to be patient with crazy drivers on the road?
• We are to be patient with the ones who lie to our face?
• We are to be patient with the company who takes over two weeks to repair the hot water heater because they never ordered the part to fix it?
• We are to be patient with the invited guests who do not RSVP to any given event?
• We are to be patient with our kids who ignore us?
• We are to be patient with our parents who ask us the same thing five times in one conversation?
As Christ Followers, we are to be patient with EVERYONE? Yep, that is what my Bible says! How about yours?
At first, the precept sounded like bad news. Being patient with all requires self-control, discipline and a willingness to crucify our flesh. However, as I read a little further that day, I discovered some good news!
“He who calls you is faithful; he will do it.” (1Th 5:24 CSB)
He has called us! He is faithful! He will do it. He will empower us to be patient with all! When we say, “I CANNOT,” He says, “YOU CAN DO ALL things through Christ who strengthens you!
I enCOURAGE you to be patient with everyone! Lord, have mercy, please! (I wonder how many tests willl come along with this post?)
God is everywhere! He is ever-present. Don’t tune out Holy Spirit.
“Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. (Psalm 139:7-10 NKJV)
He is everywhere! He is everywhere! He is everywhere, never leaving us. It is only when we quench the Spirit that He seems distant. We have moved from our place in Him, allowing the noise of the world and the enemy of our souls to dominate our thoughts. This is what happened in the garden with Adam and Eve—they listened to the wrong voice.
If you want to keep God close, do not move from your place in Him. Remember whose you are and who you represent. Do not quench the Holy Spirit. Do not turn down or tune out His voice in your life. Do not extinguish the fire of the Holy Spirit. Do not put Him out. Do not silence His loving whisper. Do not stifle His strong word. Do not quench the Spirit.
Know who you are and your assignment.
You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.
6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others [do], but let us watch and be sober. …
8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and [as] a helmet the hope of salvation.
19DO NOT QUENCH THE SPIRIT. (1Th 5:5-6, 8,19NKJV)
It is vital to know who you are—sons and daughters of light, made to shine brightly and reflect His glory. We are given instructions on how to act: be sober, which means to be calm, collected, and focused. The Word tells us how to “dress.” We are to wear the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. Think of a quarterback on a professional or college team. Today, their helmets are wired with a direct line to the coach, allowing them to hear the coach’s instructions. This is similar to the helmet of salvation—it helps us hear the leading, guiding voice of our Father. It also protects us from the distractions and taunts of the world. When we act as we should, dress as we should, and listen as we should to the Holy Spirit, our focus will remain on Him. In return, we will not douse the voice He is speaking into our lives.
I encourage you not to quench the Spirit. He has so much for you. He is everywhere and desires to lead and guide you in everything.
Recently, my husband and I spent a relaxing evening on our deck. We experienced a cool, crisp spring night where we enjoyed God’s majestic creation. The air was refreshingly sharp and invigorating. The wind whispered gently through the trees, rustling the leaves in a soothing dance. The sky was dotted with countless sparkling stars that shimmered like diamonds against the dark canvas. The birds brightly sang their praises, providing the most melodic backdrop. Peace enveloped us.
It was in the stillness of the night when I heard Holy Spirit breathe out and ever so softly proclaim “I AM EVERYWHERE all the time! You cannot escape My loving presence. Sadly, it is you that tunes Me out. It is you that allows the noisy cares of the world to turn up the volume and speak lies into your life over My truth. If you ALWAYS BELIEVE that I AM who I say I AM, and you ARE who I say you are, you could live life unshaken in perfect peace.”
WOAH! What a word to hear from the LORD as I owas heading to bed
The LORD has given us the WORD in Jesus. He has also given us His written word, the logos. He has gifted us the rhema word, spoken directly to our heart through His still, quiet voice via Holy Spirit, or by others delivering His word, by songs or by experiences. He uses everything in all His creation to love on us and speak into our lives. The question is, “are we tuned in to His voice? Are we listening?” He is always around, but are we? Are we “the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.” (Mar 4:18-19 NKJV). Remember…
He is everywhere!
You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. 3 You comprehend my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 For [there is] not a word on my tongue, [But] behold, O LORD, You know it altogether … 7 Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or WHERE CAN I FLEE FROM YOUR PRESENCE?8 If I ascend into heaven, You [are] there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You [are there]. (Psa 139:2-4, 7-8 NKJV)
He is near.
The LORD [is] near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. (Psa 145:18 NKJV)
He is always with us.
I am with you always, [even] to the end of the age. Amen. (Mat 28:20 NKJV)
His name is Emmanuel, God with us.
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Mat 1:23 NKJV)
He is behind us and before us.
You have hedged me behind and before and laid Your hand upon me. (Psa 139:5 NKJV)
He holds us up.
Even there Your hand shall lead me, And Your right hand shall hold me. (Psa 139:10 NKJV)
He is beside us.
And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper (called to one’s side), that He may abide with you forever— (Jhn 14:16 NKJV)
He is in us.
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit [who is] IN YOU, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1Co 6:19-20 NKJV)
I have been crucified with Christ; it is NO LONGER I WHO LIVE,BUT CHRIST LIVES IN ME; and the [life] which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Gal 2:20 NKJV)
He never leaves us.
Be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So, we may boldly say: “The LORD [is] my helper (by my side) ; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Heb 13:5-6 NKJV)
He is the air that we breathe.
…He gives to all life, breathe, and all things. … 28 “for in Him we live and move and have our being…(Act 17:25, 28 NKJV)
He is not into separation.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [Shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 8:3539 NKJV)
God is love. When we accept His love, declare Jesus as our Savior AND Lord, meaning we accept His saving work on the cross AND we read, listen, and do His word. We come into relationship with Him. We are His sons and daughters. And…He is everywhere, everywhere, everywhere, never leaving us. It is only when we QUENCH the Spirit that He seems farther away. It is not because He moved. It is because we have changed the Spirit channel and tuned Him out. We have turned.
I enCOURAGE you not to quench Holy Spirit (1Th 5:19). Do not turn down nor tune out the voice of the Lord in your life. Do not extinguish the fire that is the Holy Spirit. God is there. He is everywhere, all the time. He is with you through life and death; sickness and health; hurt and pain; joy and sadness. His heart is fixed on YOU! Keep your HEART-FIXED on Him.
Complete in Him 