Keep Your Eyes On Him

     "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. Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young-a place near Your altar, O Lord Almighty, my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they are ever praising You (Psalm 84:1-4)."      In the presence of the Lord, there is fullness of joy. The problems of this world, the sadness, loss and heartache fade in the light of His beauty and grace. You and I will go through many trials and difficulties in our lifetime. None of us are exempt from disappointment and pain. We are either going through a trial, coming out of one, or getting ready to go through one. I am not writing this to discourage you, but rather to encourage your heart. Because you and I have a refuge we can run to; His name is Jesus. He will fill your heart and soul...

     "My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours, but also for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:1-2)."      We all have a sin nature. Even if you are saved by the blood of Christ, you still have a sin nature. Yes, you have been redeemed and been filled with His Holy Spirit, but you will have this sin nature until the day Christ comes, and you are made like Him (1 John 3:2).  With that being said, there will be a battle between our flesh and our spirit all the days of our life. That is why Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily  and follow Me (Luke 9:23). To deny ourselves is simply laying aside our desires and our will, then surrendering to God and His will.       If you...

     "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:1-4)."      There is a peace that the Lord Jesus gives. This peace has nothing to do with your circumstances. Rather it is a peace in knowing-beyond any doubt-that you never walk alone. It is a peace that Jesus gives even in the worst of circumstances because you know He has you and will never ever leave you. Being in the valley of the shadow of death or in heartbreaking circumstances is by no means easy, however, if you will look to Jesus and keep your eyes on Him, not your circumstances, you will have peace. Not only that, but you will have joy. Because being in His presence brings fullness o...

    " Fear not , for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine . When you pass through the waters, I will be with you ; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire , you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. for I am the Lord you God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you (Isaiah 43:1-4)."       The Lord showed me these verses several years ago when I was deep in the valley. Ever since that time, I have clung to these same verses whenever I face a trial. Read them again and let them sink into your heart. These words are for you right now in whatever impossible situation or heartache you may be facing. God promises that when we walk through the fire, we will NOT be burned and when we go through the rivers, they won't sweep over us. Or in othe...

  "By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations, by understanding, He set the heavens in place; by His knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let drip the dew. My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; when you lie down, you will no be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet (Proverbs 3:19-24)."      The Lord is the One who gives wisdom. It is from Him that we gain knowledge and understanding. Apart from Him, it would be impossible for any of us to walk a straight path. By His Spirit He gives us direction, truth and conviction of sin. Our hearts are desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9) and if left to ourselves, we would perish. Because we all have a sin nature, and are bent towards disobedience, rebellion and living a selfish life, we must intentionally seek after God. Und...