Thanksgiving

 Thanksgiving

This is the time of year to celebrate gifts received by showing it in thanks- giving. We have received life, freedom, food, clothing, homes, health, work, and much more. (Thank you, God!) And we can therefore give out of what we have received – love, food, clothing, encouragement, a listening ear, etc.

We may regret choices or mourn losses gone by making it difficult to express thanks. Looking at these there are still many things that deserve appreciation. However, being thankful – like all emotions - is a choice. The promise of Romans 8:28 assures those who love God that all things work together for good – fitting into God’s good purpose for us.

Perhaps you have seen Pollyana? It is an old movie with a young girl who becomes orphaned and then adopted by her aunt. She played the glad game to adjust her attitude toward the disappointments in life. For each situation she found something for herself and others to be glad. It took effort to change her attitude and outlook  into a grateful mindset.

Reflecting on the year gone by, challenge yourself in expressing thanks as a grateful giver to God and then others.

 

Psalm 106:1 ESV Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!

by Joy Pedersen

Facing Challenges

 

Facing Challenges

Throughout life, we meet all kinds of difficulties and come face to face with our limitations. They may be physical, emotional, or spiritual – even a combination of all three. We may have tried to confront them by going to a doctor or adding exercise to our regiment. We may have sought counsel and gotten insight. Or we may have prayed and read the Bible, all hoping our situation would change for the better.

As Christians change can foster faith questions and trust issues with our Lord, but the Helper (Holy Spirit) can lead us through the dark valleys. For example, we might wonder:

·        Did God hear my requests?

·        Is it my failure to take care of myself that I face this problem?

·        Does God see me and care about my situation?

·        Am I doomed to be this way for all my life?

These are just a few things that might come to mind for you. I confess, at times they have caused me angst. Today as I write, I am faced with one more challenge. Several heart attacks have weakened my heart, and doctors tell me another heart procedure is needed. It is familiar, but because of the aging process and other issues, this is more difficult to handle physically and emotionally.

Because of the miraculous way God has brought me through past struggles, He will do it again but there are uncertainties. Thankfully His Word is speaking clearly these days offering comfort, hope in Him and my future, and a deeper love and appreciation for my heavenly Father.

Praise goes to my faithful and kind Father. Delight in Him is increasing while watching Him work in the lives of others and myself. Longing for more of Him to meet my every need grows along with confidence in His knowing what is best for me. Some of the verses that especially minister to my heart include:

·        When answers are not enough, I recall Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLV): Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not trust in your own understanding.  Agree with Him in all your ways, and He will make your paths straight.

·        When it feels like there is more to do to change things, I remember Philippians 4:19 (ESV): And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

·        When my mind begins to focus on things I cannot control I am reminded of Jesus words in John 14:27 (NLT): I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

·        When heaviness overwhelms me Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28 & 29b draw me to my Savior and healer: Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest ^… and you will find rest for your souls.

·        When I lose sight of who is supremely sovereign of everything my mind goes to Isaiah 41:10 (AMP) – God’s words: Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’

           Do I fail along the way? Yes, I forget at times who is in charge with ability and attention given to aid as He did Paul, Job, Moses, and Jesus – but I know who I believe and He is keeping me safe in the hollow of His hand (even when I don’t feel it).  Like Paul in Philippians 1:6 (ESV), my confidence rests in Jesus:

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you [and me] will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

by Joy Pedersen

Here Comes Easter!

 Here Comes Easter!

            For most people in this part of the world, spring and Easter represent new life after a dormant winter. Plant life shows up as buds and blooms pop out and green grass appears proving there is life after death. It is almost like a message and reminder from God that resurrection is real. So where did Easter come from?

Centuries ago, the Jews’ hardened hearts and lack of devotion to their heavenly Father led to subservience in a foreign land. The blood of a lamb on their doorposts brought forgiveness and freedom from slavery. (Hebrews 9:22 [ESV] “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”) Delivery was a reminder of God’s mercy and compassion. Today Passover is a solemn remembrance of that event. He provided a chance for a restored commitment to Him once again.

Easter season in the Christian community is similar to the Passover. Deliverance was provided for all of mankind through the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ through His shed blood on the cross.  Jesus, the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), has given all of mankind a chance to receive forgiveness from sin by way of salvation. This act paid for our freedom around the time of Passover – our Easter. To all who choose to follow Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, there is hope and assurance of one day being resurrected even as Jesus was for eternity. 

Followers of Jesus, join the family of believers in celebrating Jesus' resurrection on this day. Once enslaved to sin and the devil’s schemes to defy God, we have been released from Satan’s bondage into the loving care of the one true God. This is indeed a day for thanksgiving and praise to the only wise God and forever King Jesus!

I Cor. 15:20-23 (NLT): Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died. So, you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.

Time with Purpose

Time With Purpose 

The history of Queen Esther is recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible. She was born a simple Jewish girl, faithful to God and family. Her parents died while she was still young so her cousin, Mordecai, adopted her and raised her as his daughter.

During that time in history, the Jews had been exiled from Jerusalem. They found themselves integrated into a community under the reign of King Xerxes in the area of Susa. It happened that Mordecai reported an assassination plot against the king and so earned favor with Xerxes.

It was also around then that the king unseated his wife and queen for embarrassing him. So he looked for a new queen. Searching for a beautiful replacement, several women in the area were chosen to ‘apply’ for the job.  Enter Esther! After meeting the requirements and being accepted by the king (short version), her influence saved the Jews from being destroyed by an evil man and his plot.

Esther 4:14 reveals Mordecai’s encouragement to deal with an evil plot. It gave purpose and incentive for her placement and role as queen. If she chose not to intervene, there would be devastating consequences, and all Jews would be murdered.

If you stay silent during this time, deliverance for the Jews will come from somewhere, but you, my child, and all of your father’s family will die. And who knows? Perhaps you have been made queen for such a time as this. Esther 4:14 (Voice)

I wonder if she might have had the message Joshua received from the Lord ringing in her heart and mind!

Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9  (AMP)

As we enter the new year of 2024, where do you find yourself in life? Tjoshua’s promise is true for us as well - the Lord our God is with us wherever we go. Have you been separated from family or friends, lost loved ones, are ill, or moved by unexpected circumstances to a new and uncomfortable home or job? Do you sense God’s purpose for your role and position? The challenge in each of our lives demands courage and faithfulness to what God has given to us or allowed for us. Perhaps you have been made _____ for such a time as this.

By Joy Pedersen

Christmas Peace

 Christmas Peace

Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]  
John 14:27 (AMP)

We are barely past Thanksgiving expressing gratitude for the many things that God has graciously provided, and now it is time for Christmas. It is time to celebrate His greatest provision. “Merry Christmas” is on our lips.

With all the adversity in the world, it may make being merry seem out of reach. Distractions abound with busyness and pressure – shopping, partying, entertaining, and decorating. Things will die down after Christmas, but over-spending, loneliness, and/or emptiness –possibly even personal tragedy, medical problems, or unexpected relocation of job or home – interfere with a need for calm - peace.

Jesus made His appearance knowing all our struggles, giving us a clearer understanding of God, showing His deep love for us, and providing a way for salvation. Foretold by Isaiah (9:2-7) of the coming Messiah, Jesus was identified as Wonderful Counselor and Prince of Peace.  In the ninth chapter of Isaiah some of the purpose for His coming was revealed - giving light in this dark world; defeating oppression; and lifting heavy burdens. Jesus is the One we celebrate at Christmas!

This historic and heavenly event is journaled in Luke 3. Shepherds heard the announcement from not just one but many angels. Sheepherders were invited to visit the baby - to ponder Jesus' lying in a manger. There was adoration, astonishment, awe, and peace around the manger! Their encounter caused them to spread the word of His arrival to other people.

The world needs the Prince of Peace. This Christmas season take time to close your eyes and imagine gathering around that manager where Jesus lay with Mary and Joseph. What would you say, think, feel, and experience? May you know the power of His peace now and year-round as you trust Him and claim the peace that passes all understanding.

Merry Christmas!

by Joy Pedersen

BOOK RELEASE: Loving With All Our Soul

 

Joy Pedersen's newest book release is available now! 
Loving With All Our Soul

Loving With All Our Soul

What is the soul, and what does it involve? Understanding how the soul fits into our spiritual makeup is important so we can love God with all of it. Enticements and choices made are often confusing and detrimental to maturity. It is important to look at the soul infected, influenced, inspired, and infiltrated. Are you hoping to increase your relationship with God and others? Committed time of introspection through these pages will help you examine your love life, wean out the things that hold you back, and lean into the One who loves you most.

Order through https://clearhope.org/

Brief Biography: Joy Pedersen founded Clear Hope Association in 2004 to equip and build the family of God. She has served over 25 years in ministry using the Word of God to teach, write, and counsel. As a dedicated and effective communicator, she walks alongside others encouraging a deeper, more personal, and effective relationship with Jesus Christ.

Father's Day

Father’s Day is a reflection and appreciation day. When I do this, my mind recalls the hard work Dad consistently powered through until the very day that he went to Heaven. He tended farm animals and tended soil and crops. He built houses and led men in the process. He instructed his children by word and deed ethically and spiritually. He helped his neighbors in need. He provided shelter, food, and clothing for his family – at times others. He prayed daily with the family after sharing the Word of God. Though imperfect, he served the Lord faithfully in all he did. He has been gone from this world for 37 years, but I am so grateful for the impressions he left on my life, and looking forward to seeing him again in heaven.

In a world where pleasure has become a primary focus, the eternal reward is often forgotten. Rather, working faithfully and responsibly we are to recognize all our works – manual and physical - are opportunities to reflect God’s love to others and then reap an eternal reward for our service in Heaven. Colossians 3:23 (ESV) is our reminder. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

by Joy Pedersen

A Great Promise

 

A Great Promise

Bidding farewell to friends and family throughout life, I know some of the difficulty in letting go as they depart. Adjusting to the idea of life without them is almost unthinkable. Denial is usually my first response followed by sadness.  The assurances that they will stay in contact and/or return for a visit is often meant well but not fulfilled.

Jesus’s disciples were in a similar situation.  Jesus had prepared them with details of His death and resurrection, but now He began to prepare them for His ‘move’ back to Heaven. Leaving the gift of spiritual life for all mankind, Jesus was going away. For three years they had traveled together, ministered side by side, and been trained for their ministry roles – but His going away was unimaginable! How would they go on?

Startled by His announcement, Jesus left a promise for them and us that was designed to bring relief and hope. The communication was caring and compassionate as He readied them for this part of His and their journey. Jesus gave reason for His going – a promise! Unlike the farewell promises of mankind, however, Jesus’s was not in vain. He promised a Helper - almost a replacement of sorts - that we continue to benefit from. How?

The Helper (Holy Spirit) exposes the truth of individuals sinfulness, what righteousness is, and God’s judgement for those who do not have a love relationship with God and others. The message of salvation can be accepted and believed by the hearer when conviction is received. The Holy Spirit’s revealed truth is a weapon against the ruler of this world, Satan, who fights against truth.

How good to have a reliable promise to hold on to. In what time I am afraid, I have a Helper (Psalm 56:3). He makes us effective witnesses of Christ (Acts 1:8). He teaches us and reminds us to apply what He has said in the Bible (John 14:26). He goes with us wherever we go (I Corinthians 3:16). He strengthens us so we can mature in Christ (Romans 8:26-27). He helps become more and more like Christ (Romans 8:29).

Thank you Father, for the fulfilled promise of the Holy Spirit.

by Joy Pedersen

PEACE

PEACE

Philippians 4:8-9(ESV) “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

Something that we each want and search for is peace. To get it, there is a price to pay. When there is war, the sacrifice of lives is devastating. The world tries to attain it through negotiations and compromise. But the personal war we are faced with through illnesses, divorce, abuse, aging, and oppression will rob us of peace if we don’t also manage our thinking and focus. In this case the cost is dying to self and absorbing the peace that only God can give. So, how do we gain peace? We learn from God’s Word, and fix our mind and heart on Jesus Christ.

Personally, Philippians has been a great teacher on the subject. Coming to the One (God) who knows and cares about our troubles is the only way I have found peace. Yes, it is necessary to face the valleys in life honestly with truth and reckon with our limitations. It is necessary to process the physical and emotional issues that seem debilitating at times. Having experienced an unwanted divorce and illnesses creating limitations, sacrificing self-pity and grumbling is my sacrifice to obtain peace. I have found it is impossible to experience peace unless I can refocus on those things that are honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, or excellent. For me, these are found enjoying a simple meal, writing, examining scripture, reading, playing a game, and especially being with loving people. Learning to be content wherever I find myself is the most peaceful place. Accepting the way things are, and allowing God to give me the  strength to handle my weaknesses brings internal peace even if external things don’t change.

Contentment and peace walk hand in hand. Reframing our thinking and rejoicing over the things that are true (His truth), honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praise worthy is the key. Practice turning the darkness off and the light of truth on – it has made all the difference for me – and it can for you as well. 

by Joy Pedersen

The Power of Faith

The Power of Faith

 

Hebrews 11:6 ^(TPT)

“And without faith living within us it would be impossible to please God. For we come to God in faith knowing that he is real and that he rewards the faith of those who passionately seek him,”

Reading Hebrews 11 and 12, I am amazed at the power of faith.  From Abel to the present day, individuals have faced hardships. Amazingly, the one thing that brought victory and hope to those listed in these chapters was their faith that God was in both the good and bad situations they were in. Here we read of testimony and faith power. These are some of them:

• Abel chose by faith to make an offering that was acceptable to God – the best portions of his firstborn lambs. This instructs us today that obedience through sacrifice pleases God.
• Enoch never died – he just went straight to heaven - because his life was a faith walk that pleased God. He was a living example of trust and obedience powered by faith.
• Noah’s heart welcomed God’s warning. Believing His word in opposition to people of the day, he built an ark that saved his family and future generations while being mocked and scorned.
• Faith motivated Abraham to blindly obey God, even as a migrant traveling through unknown countries. His hope held to a promise of fulfillment for the unknown future. He was willing to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac, because he believed God would fulfill His promise of creating a great nation through him.
• Sarah’s faith through the years rested in the power of God and His faithfulness. Then, at an old age, she conceived and bore Isaac, the child promised by God to her and Abraham.
• Joseph was upheld by his faith in God’s purpose for his life as he was sold into slavery, interpreted dreams, led a godless nation, and prophesied the deliverance of Israel which led to saving the Jewish nation.
•  The parents of Moses believed that he was to be saved and found a way to preserve him for God’s purpose.
• Moses chose beyond what the world could offer. Following God’s will by faith, he led Israel through deliverance and a desert. He was disrespected, rejected, misunderstood, and exhausted while still anticipating and expecting favor and a future reward. Faith even removed his fear of a government official.
•  Faith made it possible for the Hebrews to cross the Red Sea safely and the enemy was destroyed!
• Faith in an unseen God was the basis upon which Rahab, a prostitute, was saved from destruction.
•  Kingdoms were conquered and saved based on the power of faith. It happened and does happen for prophets and ordinary people.                                                                                                
• Many died holding onto their faith without receiving their promise during their lifetime.

Each was able to do this because their hearts were fixed on what was ahead of them: heaven, where being face to face with Jesus.  He was their promise.  Hebrews 11:34 tells us that their “faith imparted power to make them strong.”  In the Aramaic, this is translated as being “restored or healed”.

All throughout the New Testament, we are shown the power of faith as apostles and disciples alike preached the good news. Strength was given to endure, be courageous, to suffer, to minister, to care for others, and so much more. Faith gave them the power they needed to live a life of belief and hope for what was yet to come beyond this world.  They fixed their mind, sight, and anticipation on what was eternal so that they could make it in this life.

If you are feeling weak, worn, and woeful, fix your thoughts, imagination, and hope on a heavenly world with a kingdom of love and life.  It is absent of hate, cruelty, sickness, death, and poverty.  Praise God who has given us the promise of a perfect life with a perfect Father, God, who will reward us for our active faith in Him. 

By Joy Pedersen

A LOOK AT MOTHERING

A LOOK AT MOTHERING

Happy Mother’s Day to all.  Whether your mother is living or has passed away this is a  time to celebrate the handiwork of God. Some women are blessed to raise children given by birth, and some are blessed by giving care to those who need mothering. Whatever your blessing, this is a day to commemorate the heart of a mother designed by God. Each woman contains the ability to mother.  

In May we celebrate motherhood, an honor and privilege created specifically for women.

Father God is revealed by Isaiah as also having the image of mother. It sounds unbelievable that He can identify so personally with the role of mothers. As we read this prophets description of God as a woman in labor (42:14) and as a mother who nurses and comforts her child (66:10-13) this truth is evident. Then Jesus came along and compared God to a mother hen who gathers her children under the safety of her wings (Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34).

Even as a small girl, I recall caring for my dolls as I rocked, fed, protected, sang to, played with, and talked to my ‘children’. Mother did these things with me, and I mimicked the activity and love. I think of Deborah as a mature woman given the position of mothering the nation of Israel. Judges 5:7 tells us that: “Deborah took command, protecting Israel as a mother protects her children”. She mimicked the image God showed to a nation. These character qualities of God were passed on us. As we fulfill the role of mothering for those who need protection, comfort, safety, food, and other provisions, God is on display for others see and believe in His love and care. 

As you celebrate this created role here in May, give thanks for those who have tended to your needs spiritually and emotionally, forgive those who have failed you personally as mothers, pray for those who are searching for fulfillment through a loving mother, and bless the Lord for all that He provides in this difficult world while mothering and fathering us.

- Joy Pedersen

A Prayer of acknowledgement for God who fulfills our need for a perfect mother!

God our perfect mother,
living water,
river of mercy,
source of life,
in whom we live
and move
and have our being,
who quenches our thirst,
refreshes our weariness,
bathes
and washes
and cleanses
our wounds,
be for us always
a fountain of life,
and for all the world
a river of hope
springing up in the midst
of the deserts of despair.

--Miriam Therese Winter