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

THE BRAVE AND THE FREE

 

THE BRAVE AND THE FREE

Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.  Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Romans 13:7-8 NJKV

Once again, we celebrate a day of independence here in the USA. It is a time to recognize the brave who have fought for lives and freedom available inside our borders. We pause to celebrate the lives previously or currently defending our liberties. We too recognize the defensive and offensive forces for their sacrifices and are thankful for what they have done and are doing. Battles have been fought to overcome tyranny, preserve freedoms, and defend the weak and oppressed on and off our soil - for God’s justice. The cost has been great because evil continues in this world. Yet, we have benefited by experiencing freedom of ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness’ in the face of its chaos.  For men and women who stand in love with conviction defending family, friends, and strangers alike – thank you.

Long ago the great defender, God, fought for our freedom and continues to do so. The original intention of God for this world was to bring glory (praise, honor, and thanksgiving) to himself in our relationship with Him. Then with just one bite of a forbidden fruit things changed. Small skirmishes and large wars have been part of our world since that one rejection of God’s directive and His design to keep us from sin. In exchange for that freedom God’s requirement of us has not changed.

God instructs us to love Him first with heart, soul, mind, and strength and then others (Mark 12:29-30).  As followers of Christ, in some sense we are all soldiers armed with His love. Loving God we serve others defending, providing, and caring for and about those who are in need. This 4^th of July thank God for those who deserve honor for defending you. But also consider – in the year ahead - who you will defend in love. Make your home and heart one that resonates bravery and freedom in Christ. 

by Joy Pedersen

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

EASTER

 EASTER

Acts 2:29-33 (AMP)

“Brothers, I may confidently and freely say to you regarding the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. And so, being a prophet and knowing fully that God had sworn to him with an oath that He would seat one of his descendants on his throne, he foresaw and spoke [prophetically] of the resurrection of the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), that He was not abandoned [in death] to Hades (the realm of the dead), nor did His body undergo decay. 32 God raised this Jesus [bodily from the dead], and of that [fact] we are all witnesses. Therefore having been exalted [d]to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured out this [blessing] which you both see and hear.

Dear Beloved

 

Dear Beloved, 

I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We have entered the holiday season that calls us in so many directions. Friends, family, and fellow brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ unite to celebrate with thanks for all that God has blessed us with. This climaxes to the birthday celebration of our King Jesus. As this happens my heart overflows giving thanks for each one who has been part of ministering through prayer, teaching, encouraging, and expanding in other Christ centered arenas. As I think of each person, it is as though you have been gift-wrapped with a beautiful bow and given to me. You are priceless gifts. My love is deep. 

Appreciatively, 

Joy Pederson 

CHRISTMAS 2021

It was the week before Christmas!

All through the country, we people hurried, worried, and traveled preparing for the big celebration! Christmas! 

And what are we celebrating?  Is it Joy to the World the Lord has Come?  Is it Dreaming of a White Christmas? Is it a Blue Christmas? Is it Peace on Earth Good Will to Men?  Is it Santa Claus is Coming to Town? 

While making a mad rush to settle down for a long winter’s nap, take some time to rejoice and delight in the real reason Christmas became a season of celebrations.  “God sent His Son.”  

It is Jesus’ birthday that gives permission for us to even say Merry Christmas or have a blessed Christmas.  We sing carols, give gifts, join in parties, light lights, and perhaps attend candlelight services. There is an admission in all this activity that Jesus was born! His purpose is powerful, coming to earth out of a heart of love, with a deep desire to bring life to our dead spirits. The true celebration is accepting Jesus as personal Savior.  He was sent that the world might be saved. In life Christ lived fully, served humbly, died guiltlessly, rose from the dead miraculously, and returned to Heaven.  His completed life provides a life of eternity for all who truly believe and accept Him. 

Are you prepared to sing “Joy to the World the Lord is Come”?

 Take some time to quietly reflect and meditate on the Reason, the Hope, and the Christ who came to bring life as you celebrate Jesus. And have a Merry Christmas.

-  Joy Pedersen

 

Chosing The Better Path

“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made…. Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed – or indeed only one….” Luke 10:40,41

Can you feel it? 

The countdown to the end of the year has started with a vengeance! It’s that time of year when our time can easily be hijacked by cooking, baking, cleaning and shopping, family gatherings and work events. Our “To Do” list grows by inches, and even activities like decorating the house seem burdensome rather than fun. If we’re not careful, our joy is sucked up by stress. And not just because we’re busy.

 

Holidays can bring up all sorts of emotions and memories - some old and some very fresh - and often those memories can be painful. Perhaps this will be your first round of holidays without a beloved family member. Maybe you’ve just lost a job or a home. Or maybe childhood memories of dysfunction and abuse tied to family holidays are intruding on your peace.

The good news is, as Thanksgiving and Christmas approach, we can choose to do things differently than in years past. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s what – and WHO – is truly important. So let’s choose a better path through the days ahead by focusing less on DOING, and more on BEING. Being appreciative of all God’s blessings rather than complaining about what is missing. Being truly present for those we love by giving them our time and attention rather than gifts. Let’s simplify our days so that we spend less time in the kitchen (or the mall), and more time at the feet of Jesus. 

 - Janece Herrington