I have been doing a lot of studying lately. Studying the bible and scriptures, christian articles, journals, and such. I have also been more prayer focused. I used to say it was hard for me to be quiet and listen for God to speak to me, but have discovered that I don’t really need quiet at all. I just need to fill my heart with more of Him, and He talks to me all day. See, if my focus is on Him, He will quiet my heart and speak to me when necessary. Sometimes He gives me clarity of thought, or sends a scripture in my head. Have you ever had a moment that you sensed you had lived it before, or a coincidence that was in your face bold. Christian author Beth Moore calls those God Stop moments. Even the simple act of recognizing that He is in it, is giving Him praise that He deserves.
I really got off on a tangent there. The message of this post was supposed to be about prayer. Do you ever find yourself rambling on and on, with “Lord, I just ask that you would?” Well, Jesus said in Matthew 7:7-“Ask and it will be given to you.” I read an interesting article about asking God with a question mark. When we ask with a question mark, we expect to receive an answer. Let me give an example. If I have a friend that I would like to go to lunch with, I could ask her in one of two ways. Can you meet me for lunch tomorrow, or I just ask that you would meet me for lunch. I know that with the first, I will receive an answer. Granted, it may not be the answer that I am looking for, but an answer will be given. The second option is weak and open ended. When we ask with a question, we are submitting, turning it over. Isn’t that what God asks us to do?

I want to welcome you to this blog. I have been inspired lately by some people that I don’t even know, and felt compelled to share that with you. My family and I have also been lifted up in prayer by friends and family, and some people that we don’t know very well. It amazes me, that in your darkest hour, all you have to do is cry out, and people are glad to pray for you. I have found that it isn’t easy for some people to let go, and ask for help. Not me, not anymore. I have felt the peace wash over me, and seen prayers answered in part already. What an awesome feeling! I explained it to my husband like this. Jesus is always with us, and He’s begging us to give Him our troubles and worries. Some refuse to listen to Him. I, on the other hand, feel like I dump a wheel barrow at His feet! What a relief that I don’t have to do it all alone. Jesus said that we will overcome if we patiently endure. He never promised that it would be easy. In fact, it is sometimes easier to follow satan than it is the Lord. That’s where I stand up and say I want to do what is pleasing in His sight only. I know that we will overcome this, and come out better and stronger because of this struggle. I have that faith.

I also believe that God has led me to create this blog. I have been a “lurker” to a couple of really good blogs, and they have enriched my life so much. When I was struggling with what to name it, I prayed for help. I then opened my bible and it fell open to Proverbs. Guidance for victory jumped out at me from chapter 24, verses 5 & 6. Let me read it to you. “A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength; for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers.” I feel like I am waging war against satan right now. How do I gain wisdom and knowledge? By studying God’s Word, He gives me guidance. I read it and etch it into my mind. Verses come to me throughout the day, in time of need or not. That is God speaking to me! My advisers are many. My dad is the best, and my mom when she can get a word in! I also have a great group of friends who have the same beliefs, and we have started a small bible study. These things are essential.

I think we are all waging war with something. God has given us the directions. If we choose to follow Him, we will have victory.

I want to use this avenue and share thoughts, feelings, joy, prayers, sadness, and most of all Victories through Jesus Christ with you. I look forward to hearing from you as we start this journey together. I will be adding some links to a few of my favorite blogs, and hope you will be touched and inspired as well.