Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Chapter 10 Divine
Last March Kiera and I separately received prophetic words/prayers for Eric.
Kiera's word:
Open the door/gate
Open the Bible
Be alert
God has faith in you
He has a treasure for you
that is waiting just for you
Birds are singing
Leaves are falling
Trees are blowing in your face
There is a promise in the storm
Rebuke Satan
Leave spirit of rejection
The word I heard in the spirit:
You went to jail
You are being given time to walk
through the door of restoration
You have to walk through the door alone
You keep trying to walk through with people and agenda's
You won't fit because the gate is narrow
God will be your only companion
He wants to walk with you
that is the desire of His heart
to be your friend
because
you are His beloved son.
Rejection, abandonment, and trauma
have come against you and bound your mind
and created a warped framework
that you look and operate out of
God so desires to restore you and heal your broken heart.
As I was driving a few weeks ago to an appointment, I saw my Eric walking in the rain with a box balanced on his head. While there have been sporadic phone calls over the past few years...I have not seen him in five years. I drove past him initially, not really sure what to do.
After asking the Lord, I felt I was to got back.
I pulled up next to him and asked him what he was doing? As he stood there, he put the box down on the ground near his feet. The rain was falling on him but he had a hood on. I kept talking to him through my open car door window. (As I was talking to him I realized he was coming down from a high...which he admitted to.) I asked him if he needed something to eat. He said no and I asked when the last time he had eaten and he said that morning. I asked him if he still had that word that Kiera had gotten from the Lord for him last spring. (I had been able to give it to him when he had called last spring) He said he did not have it with him...so I reminded him of a key line in that prayer...which says there is a promise in the storm...I reiterated to him that their was a promise in his storm and that the Lord would forgive him instantly if he walked out of this old worn out yesterday role he continues to walk in. He got teary eyed...but no response. I looked down into the box and realized it was full of liquor.
I asked him if he wanted me to take him to the Bridge (Homeless Shelter in Dallas, TX) or to a rehab...he declined both offers. He is living on the streets - with out a plan! I asked if I could pray for him....it was a good prayer but a difficult prayer in that I instantly felt defenses go up around him - lots of resistance.....after asking him again...was there anything I could do for him and replying no...he picked his box back up and put it on his head and walked away in the rain.
I so feel that this event was a prophetic message to me (and others)...of how to pray for Eric. I felt like the Lord said to pray that his "boxed in thinking...his addiction" would be broken off him. That that box is not only blocking all the blessings and glory God wants to pour upon him...but it really blocks any kind of clear/rational thinking. Please pray that he would receive the revelation that he has the power to put his addiction down as he did so easily when we were talking.
He also had this bright bright green backpack on his back (which would never have been his style and kinda stuck out in a neighborhood...you would not want to draw attention to yourself.) I felt like the Lord said he has access to life/future to move forward but he can't see that because it is behind him but if he will just turn around and walk away from that lifestyle that resurrection life is right in front of him!
I would like to ask to come into agreement with Kiera and I for Eric's life to be restored. I believe it can happen. I also do not think it was some random meeting...five represents grace...so I believe God truly is offering Eric His grace!
Kiera's word:
Open the door/gate
Open the Bible
Be alert
God has faith in you
He has a treasure for you
that is waiting just for you
Birds are singing
Leaves are falling
Trees are blowing in your face
There is a promise in the storm
Rebuke Satan
Leave spirit of rejection
The word I heard in the spirit:
You went to jail
You are being given time to walk
through the door of restoration
You have to walk through the door alone
You keep trying to walk through with people and agenda's
You won't fit because the gate is narrow
God will be your only companion
He wants to walk with you
that is the desire of His heart
to be your friend
because
you are His beloved son.
Rejection, abandonment, and trauma
have come against you and bound your mind
and created a warped framework
that you look and operate out of
God so desires to restore you and heal your broken heart.
As I was driving a few weeks ago to an appointment, I saw my Eric walking in the rain with a box balanced on his head. While there have been sporadic phone calls over the past few years...I have not seen him in five years. I drove past him initially, not really sure what to do.
After asking the Lord, I felt I was to got back.
I pulled up next to him and asked him what he was doing? As he stood there, he put the box down on the ground near his feet. The rain was falling on him but he had a hood on. I kept talking to him through my open car door window. (As I was talking to him I realized he was coming down from a high...which he admitted to.) I asked him if he needed something to eat. He said no and I asked when the last time he had eaten and he said that morning. I asked him if he still had that word that Kiera had gotten from the Lord for him last spring. (I had been able to give it to him when he had called last spring) He said he did not have it with him...so I reminded him of a key line in that prayer...which says there is a promise in the storm...I reiterated to him that their was a promise in his storm and that the Lord would forgive him instantly if he walked out of this old worn out yesterday role he continues to walk in. He got teary eyed...but no response. I looked down into the box and realized it was full of liquor.
I asked him if he wanted me to take him to the Bridge (Homeless Shelter in Dallas, TX) or to a rehab...he declined both offers. He is living on the streets - with out a plan! I asked if I could pray for him....it was a good prayer but a difficult prayer in that I instantly felt defenses go up around him - lots of resistance.....after asking him again...was there anything I could do for him and replying no...he picked his box back up and put it on his head and walked away in the rain.
I so feel that this event was a prophetic message to me (and others)...of how to pray for Eric. I felt like the Lord said to pray that his "boxed in thinking...his addiction" would be broken off him. That that box is not only blocking all the blessings and glory God wants to pour upon him...but it really blocks any kind of clear/rational thinking. Please pray that he would receive the revelation that he has the power to put his addiction down as he did so easily when we were talking.
He also had this bright bright green backpack on his back (which would never have been his style and kinda stuck out in a neighborhood...you would not want to draw attention to yourself.) I felt like the Lord said he has access to life/future to move forward but he can't see that because it is behind him but if he will just turn around and walk away from that lifestyle that resurrection life is right in front of him!
I would like to ask to come into agreement with Kiera and I for Eric's life to be restored. I believe it can happen. I also do not think it was some random meeting...five represents grace...so I believe God truly is offering Eric His grace!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Long Shot!
I had a mission when we arrived at Target, on Black Friday. I knew that they had the Casio Keyboards on sale for half price and I wanted to buy one for Kiera for Christmas. I had only one small problem...she was with me. I did not know how long the sale or inventory would last and I did not want to miss out on a great deal. So, I devised a plan. I got a cart and a giant quilt (which had already been unwrapped) from the Bedding Department. I told Kiera to wait on the movie aisle and not peek. I hurried and had the salesman quickly put the keyboard in my basket and covered it with the giant quilt. I picked Kiera back up with the shrouded gift. We shopped for a while and the plan was going well until a corner of the quilt came up and revealed the photo of the keyboard. She began squealing and jumping up and down in pure excitement! I was sick to my stomach...half the excitement on Christmas morning was the element of suprise and the glee on your childs face...then the verbal pressure began to be poured upon me...about how she would be unable to concentrate at school because she would be thinking about her keyboard...how if she were able to play it tonight...she could probably write a top 40 hit........Yes, I caved. I decided to enjoy the wave of enthusiasm and hope it would carry us closer to Christmas Day!
Purely Fiction
Today, Kiera and I were doing art together and I decided to write and illustrate a silly story for her. Items used: Martha Stewart magazine, glue stick, scissors, crayons, black felt tip marker, a journal and a bit of creativity!
Friday, November 13, 2009
A Four Year old Vessel
The following story is being told to bring honor to our King, our Father in Heaven. He so desires for us ALL to walk in His manifest power and glory! It is so easy, that even a four year old can be a conduit for His power!
When Kiera was in Pre-K, she attended the after school program and he had a sweet teacher named Ms. O. One day Kiera asked Ms. O to please tie her shoes. Ms. O directed Kiera to sit up on the table and she would tie her shoes. Ms. O literally could not bend her back and was in massive pain due to a back injury the previous day.
She had been walking up the wooden steps at the school and had fallen, injuring her back. She did not go to the doctor but the next morning her husband had to assist her in getting out of the bed due to the intense pain and stiffness. She was in such intense pain, she had even asked the older students to cut the apples for snack for the smaller students.
Kiera realized something was wrong, and asked Ms. O what was wrong. She explained to Kiera that she had hurt her back. Kiera immediately asked the teacher if she could pray for her. Before Ms. O could even answer, Kiera had placed her hands on her back and began to pray for her.
When I arrived to pick Kiera up, Ms. O was beaming and told me what had happened. She said I am healed and immediately bent over touching the floor. God is so amazing and so wants His healing power to wash over the planet - be a vessel.
When Kiera was in Pre-K, she attended the after school program and he had a sweet teacher named Ms. O. One day Kiera asked Ms. O to please tie her shoes. Ms. O directed Kiera to sit up on the table and she would tie her shoes. Ms. O literally could not bend her back and was in massive pain due to a back injury the previous day.
She had been walking up the wooden steps at the school and had fallen, injuring her back. She did not go to the doctor but the next morning her husband had to assist her in getting out of the bed due to the intense pain and stiffness. She was in such intense pain, she had even asked the older students to cut the apples for snack for the smaller students.
Kiera realized something was wrong, and asked Ms. O what was wrong. She explained to Kiera that she had hurt her back. Kiera immediately asked the teacher if she could pray for her. Before Ms. O could even answer, Kiera had placed her hands on her back and began to pray for her.
When I arrived to pick Kiera up, Ms. O was beaming and told me what had happened. She said I am healed and immediately bent over touching the floor. God is so amazing and so wants His healing power to wash over the planet - be a vessel.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Sweet Fragrance
The mandrakes send out their fragrance, and at our door is every delicacy, both new and old, that I have stored up for you, my lover. Song of Solomon 7:13
Kiera brought this drawing to me and the Lord gave me the verse a few days later. Enjoy!
Friday, October 30, 2009
Chapter 9: Hope
A friend calledme, who reported that they had received a collect phone call from Eric in the middle of the night. They said he was suicidal. After talking with him for about 45 minutes, he finally began to calm down a bit. Evidently he has been living in the elements for several months and caught up in his addictive lifestyle which has resulted in several health issues.
Interestingly, I had prayed for Eric just yesterday...before I knew about this phone call. I prayed for him based on Isaiah 49:8. I decreed that there was a door in the darkness that Eric could walk out. I called to Eric to walk through that door into the light. I told the chains of oppression to loose him now and that he would walk into his true identity....in the Name of Jesus.
As bits and pieces of information came in, Eric had been arrested about a week ago...before his phone call to my friend. Because of his charge, he should have been kept in jail but due to some sort of glitch, he was released. I believe he probably had time to sober up and begin to reflect on his life...then he was suddenly released without a place to go and hopelessness swept over him.
After talking with my friend, Eric walked around the city and was picked up by the police again. They were looking for him due to his early release - that should never have happened. He will probably be there for a few weeks or months. I do not know what lays ahead for him but I do feel he has an opportunity to choose life. I believe Eric has walked through the door out of darkness. I pray he embraces life and the true identity of being God's chosen son.
(The above post happened about 18 months ago..............he is out of jail - keep praying!)
Interestingly, I had prayed for Eric just yesterday...before I knew about this phone call. I prayed for him based on Isaiah 49:8. I decreed that there was a door in the darkness that Eric could walk out. I called to Eric to walk through that door into the light. I told the chains of oppression to loose him now and that he would walk into his true identity....in the Name of Jesus.
As bits and pieces of information came in, Eric had been arrested about a week ago...before his phone call to my friend. Because of his charge, he should have been kept in jail but due to some sort of glitch, he was released. I believe he probably had time to sober up and begin to reflect on his life...then he was suddenly released without a place to go and hopelessness swept over him.
After talking with my friend, Eric walked around the city and was picked up by the police again. They were looking for him due to his early release - that should never have happened. He will probably be there for a few weeks or months. I do not know what lays ahead for him but I do feel he has an opportunity to choose life. I believe Eric has walked through the door out of darkness. I pray he embraces life and the true identity of being God's chosen son.
(The above post happened about 18 months ago..............he is out of jail - keep praying!)
Monday, September 28, 2009
Not Far
Last year Kiera had a total of four lunch boxes, yes....4. I realize we all forget and sometime lose stuff so I wasn't really bothered too much when she lost the first one. The school year was half way over and she lost it at a museum on a school field trip...she was out of the normal school environment and just got distracted.....easy to explain.
The second and third lunchboxes were a little more difficult to excuse as they went missing in the school lunchroom vortex. She had a fun metal cylinder purse with the Disney Princess all over it that I had bought her while on a work trip. This subbed as the second lunchbox for a few weeks until it went missing. We went into the closet, and were able pull out a cute blue bag that could be used as a third lunch box. I believe this lunchbox only lasted days.....
The forth lunchbox was clear plastic zipper lunchbox...yes it had previously held two pillowcases! I packed the usual lunch with an orange as the fruit. I showed it to Kiera so she would know this was her newest lunch box and to please try to keep up with it. That afternoon she came home with no lunchbox....lost again!
...But she had miraculously recovered the the second lunchbox - the metal cylinder one with the Disney Princesses. Again, I packed the usual lunch with an apple as the fruit and reviewed with Kiera that this was her lunchbox with her lunch. She had her eyes locked on me so I was sure were were connecting and she was taking all this information into her brain.
When I picked her up that day, I asked if she had ate her apple and she said, "No, I had an orange." I said, " I sent you an apple today." In which she replied, "No, you sent me an orange and why didn't you send me a drink?" I asked her to show me the lunch box and she pulled out the clear plastic one (yes from the day before)!
I did not even ask where that lunchbox had come from and I reached deeper into her back pack and pulled out the metal lunchbox with the fresh lunch with an apple and a drink! She looked at me...and just smiled.
I wasn't angry but just left to wonder...
The next day after dropping Kiera off at school... I zipped into the parking lot and ran up to my office and within 30 minutes was back out the door to go to an appointment. As I was walking the parking lot and had passed most of the cars, I realized that I could not locate mine. I tried to remember where I parked half an hour ago...but I was just not able to connect to that memory. So I stood in the parking lot clicking my door lock until I heard the squeak of my alarm. Success, I located the car! I did not want to be late and was rushing to get in my car and sat down and put the keys in the ignition...when it hit me between the eyes......the apple does not fall far from the tree!
The second and third lunchboxes were a little more difficult to excuse as they went missing in the school lunchroom vortex. She had a fun metal cylinder purse with the Disney Princess all over it that I had bought her while on a work trip. This subbed as the second lunchbox for a few weeks until it went missing. We went into the closet, and were able pull out a cute blue bag that could be used as a third lunch box. I believe this lunchbox only lasted days.....
The forth lunchbox was clear plastic zipper lunchbox...yes it had previously held two pillowcases! I packed the usual lunch with an orange as the fruit. I showed it to Kiera so she would know this was her newest lunch box and to please try to keep up with it. That afternoon she came home with no lunchbox....lost again!
...But she had miraculously recovered the the second lunchbox - the metal cylinder one with the Disney Princesses. Again, I packed the usual lunch with an apple as the fruit and reviewed with Kiera that this was her lunchbox with her lunch. She had her eyes locked on me so I was sure were were connecting and she was taking all this information into her brain.
When I picked her up that day, I asked if she had ate her apple and she said, "No, I had an orange." I said, " I sent you an apple today." In which she replied, "No, you sent me an orange and why didn't you send me a drink?" I asked her to show me the lunch box and she pulled out the clear plastic one (yes from the day before)!
I did not even ask where that lunchbox had come from and I reached deeper into her back pack and pulled out the metal lunchbox with the fresh lunch with an apple and a drink! She looked at me...and just smiled.
I wasn't angry but just left to wonder...
The next day after dropping Kiera off at school... I zipped into the parking lot and ran up to my office and within 30 minutes was back out the door to go to an appointment. As I was walking the parking lot and had passed most of the cars, I realized that I could not locate mine. I tried to remember where I parked half an hour ago...but I was just not able to connect to that memory. So I stood in the parking lot clicking my door lock until I heard the squeak of my alarm. Success, I located the car! I did not want to be late and was rushing to get in my car and sat down and put the keys in the ignition...when it hit me between the eyes......the apple does not fall far from the tree!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Go High
I love it when your eight year old set the standard! Recently, my daughter has been confronted by a betrayal...which would have derailed anyone...and did derail me initially. The betrayal was a low blow and left so many unanswered questions about love and relationship. Keira was emotional over the incident and asked a lot of questions, just trying to grasp every one's role and agenda in the incident.
The next day, we were at church and Kiera drew a picture of the three crosses on a hill and there were big hearts and angels surrounding the cross in the middle of the picture...so sweet! She began her run for the higher truth about life...she chose life. She loves Jesus so much and knows He will never leave her nor forsake her. Later we went a friends house for lunch, and Kiera said that a black cloud was trying to come over her and asked if we would all pray for her. She knows the Lord does not want to leave her in the valley of despair and disappointment...she chose life. After we prayed for her, she ran off to go and play!
That afternoon, she reassured me that she felt fine but I decided that we would go back to church for a bit more prayer. As we waited in the soaking room to receive prayer, the spirit of joy overtook Keira and she could not quit laughing...so there she hung upside down in her chair laughing and waiting for more kisses from heaven!
That evening we went to another church service. When we arrived they were taking up the offering and wanted people to bring it to the front and go through a glory tunnel. As we walked up, the man at the beginning of the line looked at Keira and said, "You are so beautiful!" He then looked away for a moment and immediately turned back and hugged her telling her again how beautiful she was. She continued to move forward and the people had oil to dot your forehead and hands...when they saw her something supernatural happened...they all were rubbing oil on her forehead and hands and gave her quick hugs as she walked through...she had the biggest grin on her face! She had chosen life and her Father's love was manifesting through these people. She understood that and just glowed.
As we went back to our seats, she asked to go to the front and dance as we waited for the other 2000 people to go through the glory tunnel. Keira danced the next half hour with flags and a tambourine before her Father. When we left and got in the car, Keira said, " I am full of joy!" This was literally 24 hours after the sad news and she had chosen to go high and her Father had met her with open arms! I am in awe of her example and aspire to always go high when I receive a low blow...God so wants to kiss our face and hold us tight!
The next day, we were at church and Kiera drew a picture of the three crosses on a hill and there were big hearts and angels surrounding the cross in the middle of the picture...so sweet! She began her run for the higher truth about life...she chose life. She loves Jesus so much and knows He will never leave her nor forsake her. Later we went a friends house for lunch, and Kiera said that a black cloud was trying to come over her and asked if we would all pray for her. She knows the Lord does not want to leave her in the valley of despair and disappointment...she chose life. After we prayed for her, she ran off to go and play!
That afternoon, she reassured me that she felt fine but I decided that we would go back to church for a bit more prayer. As we waited in the soaking room to receive prayer, the spirit of joy overtook Keira and she could not quit laughing...so there she hung upside down in her chair laughing and waiting for more kisses from heaven!
That evening we went to another church service. When we arrived they were taking up the offering and wanted people to bring it to the front and go through a glory tunnel. As we walked up, the man at the beginning of the line looked at Keira and said, "You are so beautiful!" He then looked away for a moment and immediately turned back and hugged her telling her again how beautiful she was. She continued to move forward and the people had oil to dot your forehead and hands...when they saw her something supernatural happened...they all were rubbing oil on her forehead and hands and gave her quick hugs as she walked through...she had the biggest grin on her face! She had chosen life and her Father's love was manifesting through these people. She understood that and just glowed.
As we went back to our seats, she asked to go to the front and dance as we waited for the other 2000 people to go through the glory tunnel. Keira danced the next half hour with flags and a tambourine before her Father. When we left and got in the car, Keira said, " I am full of joy!" This was literally 24 hours after the sad news and she had chosen to go high and her Father had met her with open arms! I am in awe of her example and aspire to always go high when I receive a low blow...God so wants to kiss our face and hold us tight!
Friday, August 28, 2009
God's Glory
Recently, as my daughter and I were were driving she began talking about her father. Periodically, she kinda reviews the "facts" about him. I believe this helpful to her and healthy way for her to talk about him.
She said, "I hope God's glory comes soon for those people that made bad choices." I loved this statement and thought, I hope His glory comes soon for those people too...but would like some of God's glory myself!
As I drove a few blocks, the Holy Spirit nudged me and reminded me that I was eligible for His glory too.....
She said, "I hope God's glory comes soon for those people that made bad choices." I loved this statement and thought, I hope His glory comes soon for those people too...but would like some of God's glory myself!
As I drove a few blocks, the Holy Spirit nudged me and reminded me that I was eligible for His glory too.....
Monday, July 27, 2009
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Waco Zoo
Recently, my daughter and I met our friends in Waco, TX at the Cameron Zoo. The zoo was great...what a pleasant surprise for such a small town zoo!
We all decided to go eat dinner on the Brazos River before heading home. We left with our friends, leaving my car parked in the parking lot. The kids had such a great time...eating and playing along the bank of the Brazos river.
A few hours later we returned to get my car and find a gigantic gate closed over the entrance with a big chain and padlock. My car was locked in the zoo! It is late on a Saturday evening...and I am two hours from home.
I called the non emergency number for the police, who called the forest ranger, who called the zoo keeper. Soon the zoo keeper walked up the drive and unlocked the padlock, removed the chain, and opened the gate.
I was able to retrieve my car and drive home...enough adventure for the day!
We all decided to go eat dinner on the Brazos River before heading home. We left with our friends, leaving my car parked in the parking lot. The kids had such a great time...eating and playing along the bank of the Brazos river.
A few hours later we returned to get my car and find a gigantic gate closed over the entrance with a big chain and padlock. My car was locked in the zoo! It is late on a Saturday evening...and I am two hours from home.
I called the non emergency number for the police, who called the forest ranger, who called the zoo keeper. Soon the zoo keeper walked up the drive and unlocked the padlock, removed the chain, and opened the gate.
I was able to retrieve my car and drive home...enough adventure for the day!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Living in the Supernatural
The last thirty days or so I have been reading blessing prayers over my daughter every night. Her spirit loves it. My desire is for her to renew her mind and for her spirit to be stronger than her soul. Last night, her blessing was on, "God Keeps the Night Watches". It was a truly rich blessing stating:
My air conditioner was broken and I had the AC guy out to fix it. The process should have taken 15 minutes max somehow took over an hour. I left my daughter to go to sleep in her room closing the door behind me. I soon realized the reason that it was taking so long...the guy had messed up and sprayed my entire bathroom with the gunk from the condensation line. When I saw the bathroom...I asked the guy to pack his items and to please leave my house. He did not respond and I asked him several times and he would not leave. He kept trying to clean up the mess with a nasty dirty rag the size of a handkerchief ....I finally had get my neighbor to tell him to get out.....
During this time, my daughter is trying to sleep but can hear all that is going on. She cracks open her door and grabs me and is literally shaking and can barely stand up......I am thinking she is traumatized by what is occurring outside her door. No...it was the manifest presence of the the Holy Spirit all over her...it was so great! Her heavenly Father showed up to comfort her! It was a powerful moment and again just confirmed to Kiera that although her earthly father is not with her today...her Heavenly father is sooooo here with her all the time!
"Your heavenly Father sustains you with the shield of His presence by night. Receive His confidence deep in your spirit. "But you are a shield around me, O Lord, you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me" (Psalms 3:3.5) . Instead of listening to your fears, listen with your spirit to God, listen with your spirit to God counseling you and reassuring you of His promises and His Name. God never sleeps, so you can rest with confidence. Sing about a fruitful vineyard: I, the Lord, watch over it. I water continually. I guard it day and night so that no on may harm it (Isaiah 27:2-3).
My air conditioner was broken and I had the AC guy out to fix it. The process should have taken 15 minutes max somehow took over an hour. I left my daughter to go to sleep in her room closing the door behind me. I soon realized the reason that it was taking so long...the guy had messed up and sprayed my entire bathroom with the gunk from the condensation line. When I saw the bathroom...I asked the guy to pack his items and to please leave my house. He did not respond and I asked him several times and he would not leave. He kept trying to clean up the mess with a nasty dirty rag the size of a handkerchief ....I finally had get my neighbor to tell him to get out.....
During this time, my daughter is trying to sleep but can hear all that is going on. She cracks open her door and grabs me and is literally shaking and can barely stand up......I am thinking she is traumatized by what is occurring outside her door. No...it was the manifest presence of the the Holy Spirit all over her...it was so great! Her heavenly Father showed up to comfort her! It was a powerful moment and again just confirmed to Kiera that although her earthly father is not with her today...her Heavenly father is sooooo here with her all the time!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Throwing Buddha in the Dumpster!
I have a friend who was recently telling me his testimony. I love testimonies - they are so full of God's hope, love, and power! My friend had been on drugs for several years and he told of how God had miraculously delivered him from his addiction. He has been off drugs for over four years! It was truly an amazing testimony.
As I soaked within the testimony...my eyes land on this giant green Buddha statue sitting on his book shelf. It kinda jolted me.
As I thanked him for sharing his story, I told him I was a bit confused. I said if you believe in God and know God...then why do you have Buddha sitting on your book shelf? He gave me some crazy reason...but then admitted he thought it looked classy. I challenged him and kindly (strongly) suggested he get rid of it. He said I was not the first person that had said something about it.
A few weeks later, I returned to visit my friend and having totally forgotten about our conversation. As I walked in, the first words out of his mouth were, "take Buddha with you today when you leave." I was stunned..."really?", I said gleefully. He admitted he had thought about what I had said and he decided he should get rid of it. We chatted for a while and then as I was leaving, he reminded me to take Buddha with me.
I grabbed that old statue and walked (ran) straight to the dumpster. I threw Buddha in...now that was exciting! I felt full of God's love, hope and power!
I had a message on my phone later from my friend. He said he was calling on behalf of his mother. She wanted to thank me for getting the demon out of her sons apartment! She had been the other person encouraging him to get rid of the statue!
As I soaked within the testimony...my eyes land on this giant green Buddha statue sitting on his book shelf. It kinda jolted me.
As I thanked him for sharing his story, I told him I was a bit confused. I said if you believe in God and know God...then why do you have Buddha sitting on your book shelf? He gave me some crazy reason...but then admitted he thought it looked classy. I challenged him and kindly (strongly) suggested he get rid of it. He said I was not the first person that had said something about it.
A few weeks later, I returned to visit my friend and having totally forgotten about our conversation. As I walked in, the first words out of his mouth were, "take Buddha with you today when you leave." I was stunned..."really?", I said gleefully. He admitted he had thought about what I had said and he decided he should get rid of it. We chatted for a while and then as I was leaving, he reminded me to take Buddha with me.
I grabbed that old statue and walked (ran) straight to the dumpster. I threw Buddha in...now that was exciting! I felt full of God's love, hope and power!
I had a message on my phone later from my friend. He said he was calling on behalf of his mother. She wanted to thank me for getting the demon out of her sons apartment! She had been the other person encouraging him to get rid of the statue!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Sweet Song from a Sweet Girl
God is looking down, God is looking down God is looking down
all around, up and down, to the left and to the right
looking at your heart
all He has to do
is open his hands
and blow a kiss on you
and you will fall in the love pit
your mind is not His mind
He has chosen you
He is watching over Mexico, Hollywood, and TX
if you are in dark
turn your back
even if you don't believe
He will still love you
once you pray
He will forgive you
and forget
looking at your heart
all He has to do
is open his hands
and blow a kiss on you
and you will fall in the love pit
your mind is not His mind
He has chosen you
He is watching over Mexico, Hollywood, and TX
if you are in dark
turn your back
even if you don't believe
He will still love you
once you pray
He will forgive you
and forget
1,2,3 just like that
if you are in dark
God is watchin' down on you
He has opened the door - gate
open the door
I will give you a secret
He is not looking from the door but from above
He is looking from up above
He is above the milky way
if you are in the dark
turn your back
shut the door
and lock the locks
give God your gift
He can give his heart away
He can never stop
if you are in dark
God is watchin' down on you
He has opened the door - gate
open the door
I will give you a secret
He is not looking from the door but from above
He is looking from up above
He is above the milky way
if you are in the dark
turn your back
shut the door
and lock the locks
give God your gift
He can give his heart away
He can never stop
Given by the Lord to sweet Kiera
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Chapter 8: Releasing
A few years ago, Eric reentered Kiera's life. He had been out of her life for about eighteen months and she really did not have any tangible memories of him.
I had very mixed feelings about the whole situation. While I knew she would be so happy to see him and he would love on her. I did not want her heart to be broken again.
God was taking me deeper into a trust and forgiveness chapter of my life. I really felt like Abraham when he walked up the hill with Isaac. Abraham was was willing to sacrifice his treasure - his legacy out of obedience and ultimately his trust in God. He understood, believed, and stood on the truth that God has the best laid plans for us. In the natural it did not appear to be the best plans but I stood on the truth that God had Kiera in the palm of His hands resting underneath his feathery wings. The day of the initial visit, that was my devotional lesson - Abra hams faith and obedience!
As we drove to the visit, a preacher on the radio was preaching from that same bible passage. I knew that God was asking me to trust Him on a deeper level. I felt like I was putting my child and her heart on the altar. Walking through that season was difficult at times and I was having to forgive on a daily basis. In the difficult moments, I clung to the truth that God had my daughter's heart in His hands. While I felt I was sifted, it was so freeing because God was sweeping out the corners of my life. I thought I forgiven everything but I had not forgiven all. It did not look or feel like the best plan to my natural eyes because I was looking through a lense of fear and disappointment. Again, more sweeping and healing took place.
Eric kept the visits up for almost 90 days. Sometimes, Kiera still references those visits. Those are really the only true tangible memories she has of him. Those are sweet and happy times for her with her father. We are both so grateful that she has those memories.
I had very mixed feelings about the whole situation. While I knew she would be so happy to see him and he would love on her. I did not want her heart to be broken again.
God was taking me deeper into a trust and forgiveness chapter of my life. I really felt like Abraham when he walked up the hill with Isaac. Abraham was was willing to sacrifice his treasure - his legacy out of obedience and ultimately his trust in God. He understood, believed, and stood on the truth that God has the best laid plans for us. In the natural it did not appear to be the best plans but I stood on the truth that God had Kiera in the palm of His hands resting underneath his feathery wings. The day of the initial visit, that was my devotional lesson - Abra hams faith and obedience!
As we drove to the visit, a preacher on the radio was preaching from that same bible passage. I knew that God was asking me to trust Him on a deeper level. I felt like I was putting my child and her heart on the altar. Walking through that season was difficult at times and I was having to forgive on a daily basis. In the difficult moments, I clung to the truth that God had my daughter's heart in His hands. While I felt I was sifted, it was so freeing because God was sweeping out the corners of my life. I thought I forgiven everything but I had not forgiven all. It did not look or feel like the best plan to my natural eyes because I was looking through a lense of fear and disappointment. Again, more sweeping and healing took place.
Eric kept the visits up for almost 90 days. Sometimes, Kiera still references those visits. Those are really the only true tangible memories she has of him. Those are sweet and happy times for her with her father. We are both so grateful that she has those memories.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Week in Review
This week:
I saw a homeless man ravaging through a trashcan and eating what ever he could find. He was so hungry and desperate.
I saw a mom being arrested for shoplifting. Her 3 year old kept looking up at her trying to catch her attention so she would pick him up into her arms. The child looked so sad and broken hearted.
As I was sitting in traffic with my window rolled down, I saw and clearly heard, a pimp asking a man walking by if he wanted to go and have some fun with his lady friend. The woman's face was so vacant. As the man pushed the pimp aside, the woman looked so rejected, tired, and scared.
I was driving and I saw a man laying on the sidewalk. I turned my car around and called 911. I waited for help to arrive. Help arrived and I was going to drive away...when the fire fighter came up to my car to inform me in a very sarcastic tone...that the man was merely passed out and they came to his rescue daily - as if the mans existence was such an inconvenience.
My heart breaks when I see hurting people, I just want to let them know that Jesus loves them and that there is hope. The poor and brokenhearted need truth which is found in Jesus. I believe we are to step out and be the bridge between the broken and true hope.
I know a man that was baptised on New Years Day. We always include God in our conversations when I visit with him. This man has had a difficult life and his health is poor. He recently had surgery. When I was there this week he kept holding his arm where he had the surgery. I asked him if I could pray for him. You should have seen his face...priceless! He said, " sure you can." So, I prayed for him and he looks up and yells, "you are a sign and a wonder..." Isn't that sweet...God is good!
We can't allow the hopelessness we see to overcome us. Our eyes must look above the hurt and disappointment and seize the opportunities that God creates for us to step into and decree his truth, hope, and love.
I saw a homeless man ravaging through a trashcan and eating what ever he could find. He was so hungry and desperate.
I saw a mom being arrested for shoplifting. Her 3 year old kept looking up at her trying to catch her attention so she would pick him up into her arms. The child looked so sad and broken hearted.
As I was sitting in traffic with my window rolled down, I saw and clearly heard, a pimp asking a man walking by if he wanted to go and have some fun with his lady friend. The woman's face was so vacant. As the man pushed the pimp aside, the woman looked so rejected, tired, and scared.
I was driving and I saw a man laying on the sidewalk. I turned my car around and called 911. I waited for help to arrive. Help arrived and I was going to drive away...when the fire fighter came up to my car to inform me in a very sarcastic tone...that the man was merely passed out and they came to his rescue daily - as if the mans existence was such an inconvenience.
My heart breaks when I see hurting people, I just want to let them know that Jesus loves them and that there is hope. The poor and brokenhearted need truth which is found in Jesus. I believe we are to step out and be the bridge between the broken and true hope.
I know a man that was baptised on New Years Day. We always include God in our conversations when I visit with him. This man has had a difficult life and his health is poor. He recently had surgery. When I was there this week he kept holding his arm where he had the surgery. I asked him if I could pray for him. You should have seen his face...priceless! He said, " sure you can." So, I prayed for him and he looks up and yells, "you are a sign and a wonder..." Isn't that sweet...God is good!
We can't allow the hopelessness we see to overcome us. Our eyes must look above the hurt and disappointment and seize the opportunities that God creates for us to step into and decree his truth, hope, and love.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Make Sure You are Carrying the Right ID
I remember the day I realized I was getting a divorce. "I can't get another divorce...not again," I thought. Instantly, I had flashbacks to the aftermath of my first divorce. I was not ready to be relegated back to eating at the table of failure and wearing the crown of shame. As the memories twirled around me, suddenly I heard a voice that said, " look up". I looked up above my circumstances and looked into the eyes of my Heavenly Father.
He said, I so love you (John 15:9) and you are My child (Romans 8:16). You have been sanctified (John 17:17), justified, and glorified (Romans 8:30). You are not under the law but under My grace (Romans 6:14) and you are My precious precious child (Romans 8:16).
I saw that I had a choice of two paths, one of lies and oppression or one of truth and my Father would be there to walk it out with me -- holding my hand tightly. I realized that my reality was changing but my identity in Him could not be shaken.
Am I saying God likes divorce? Nope I am not...divorce equals division and this is not a part of the character of God...He is a God of multiplication. What I am saying is that my actions do not change the view God has of me. He loves me...I am his absolute favorite forever!
We must carry this revelation in our hearts as we face the future. Walking through divorce is difficult but with our faithful Father loving on us...our broken hearts and wounds are healed completely. Do not allow others to put their religious ideologies upon you but look to your Daddy in heaven. Look deep into His eyes...He so adores you and he is inviting you to eat at His table wearing a crown of hope.
He said, I so love you (John 15:9) and you are My child (Romans 8:16). You have been sanctified (John 17:17), justified, and glorified (Romans 8:30). You are not under the law but under My grace (Romans 6:14) and you are My precious precious child (Romans 8:16).
I saw that I had a choice of two paths, one of lies and oppression or one of truth and my Father would be there to walk it out with me -- holding my hand tightly. I realized that my reality was changing but my identity in Him could not be shaken.
Am I saying God likes divorce? Nope I am not...divorce equals division and this is not a part of the character of God...He is a God of multiplication. What I am saying is that my actions do not change the view God has of me. He loves me...I am his absolute favorite forever!
We must carry this revelation in our hearts as we face the future. Walking through divorce is difficult but with our faithful Father loving on us...our broken hearts and wounds are healed completely. Do not allow others to put their religious ideologies upon you but look to your Daddy in heaven. Look deep into His eyes...He so adores you and he is inviting you to eat at His table wearing a crown of hope.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Save you!
Recently, my daughter said to me, "Mommy, if anyone tried to hurt you...I would give my life to save you." After trying to recapture my composure, I reassured her that I felt we both were safe. Then I said, "if anyone tried to hurt you...I would give my life to save you!"
A few minutes later, she said, "I don't think my father would give his life to save me...."
OK seriously, what do you say to that kind of statement? I hope she is wrong...but I don't have any real substantial evidence to prove her wrong....
A few days later, I got the answer!
I reminded her what she had said about her father. I said, " Actually Kiera, your Heavenly Father died for you and me on the cross and rose again"....and because He did this for us...we have:
Forgiveness, Right Standing with God, Complete Acceptance, Financial Abundance, Healing, Blessings, Life, and we share in His glory.
He gave His life so that we would have life...He saved you!
A few minutes later, she said, "I don't think my father would give his life to save me...."
OK seriously, what do you say to that kind of statement? I hope she is wrong...but I don't have any real substantial evidence to prove her wrong....
A few days later, I got the answer!
I reminded her what she had said about her father. I said, " Actually Kiera, your Heavenly Father died for you and me on the cross and rose again"....and because He did this for us...we have:
Forgiveness, Right Standing with God, Complete Acceptance, Financial Abundance, Healing, Blessings, Life, and we share in His glory.
He gave His life so that we would have life...He saved you!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Leaving a Legacy
This May my daughter Olivia would have been 10 years old. Her sweet life still impacts me today. When I was pregnant with her, I had been to the doctor during my first trimester and all was well. During my second trimester as I laid in the doctor's office having the longest sonogram on the planet. The doctor came in and told me he had scheduled me for a level two sonogram. What in the world was he talking about?
I was in a bit of a daze after that...I went to my level two sonogram and received devastating news. My daughter had a tumor on her chest and her heart and lungs would be unable to grow correctly. She would not be able to sustain life once she was born.
I was stunned and angry.
I went through the nine months of pregnancy, I remember driving to the hospital to have her and feeling like I was living a paradox. I was giving birth which equaled life but for Olivia it meant death. Olivia was born and lived for two hours. She was a beautiful beautiful baby.
When I went for my six week check up, I was still trying to understand the last nine months of my life. I was talking with the nurse and said, "I just don't understand why Olivia had to die - what was the purpose?" The nurse turned and looked at me and said, "She came to change your life." Those words cut to my heart.
She did change my life...she change everything. Just like Jesus, He came to change our lives. His ministry, death, and resurrection left a powerful legacy that touches us today. I think that is what life is about to live your life in such a ways that it emulates truth that leads back to God. Olivia grasped life and ran her race hard. She changed the landscape of my life. She left a powerful legacy.
I was in a bit of a daze after that...I went to my level two sonogram and received devastating news. My daughter had a tumor on her chest and her heart and lungs would be unable to grow correctly. She would not be able to sustain life once she was born.
I was stunned and angry.
I went through the nine months of pregnancy, I remember driving to the hospital to have her and feeling like I was living a paradox. I was giving birth which equaled life but for Olivia it meant death. Olivia was born and lived for two hours. She was a beautiful beautiful baby.
When I went for my six week check up, I was still trying to understand the last nine months of my life. I was talking with the nurse and said, "I just don't understand why Olivia had to die - what was the purpose?" The nurse turned and looked at me and said, "She came to change your life." Those words cut to my heart.
She did change my life...she change everything. Just like Jesus, He came to change our lives. His ministry, death, and resurrection left a powerful legacy that touches us today. I think that is what life is about to live your life in such a ways that it emulates truth that leads back to God. Olivia grasped life and ran her race hard. She changed the landscape of my life. She left a powerful legacy.
Olivia Adrian Middleton
May 25, 1999
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Catch the Vision
One Sunday, my daughter and I are driving to church. She turns to me in a serious tone and says, "Mom, we have to get an airplane and fill it up with Bibles and drop them out of the plane over Mexico. And they will say its raining Bibles. We have to go to every state and tell them what we are doing so they can help us."
I loved it! My child was casting vision. We discussed how we could do it. I told her we could not go to all the states now but maybe we could write a letter and send it out...asking for Bibles. I also had to tell her we would probably not be able to get a plane but maybe we could mail the Bibles to Mexico. Although we both agreed it would be cool for it to rain Bibles in Mexico!
My daughter and I wrote a letter and sent it out to family and friends. Kiera collected over 50 Bibles. It was very exciting! Our church sent the Bibles to Mexico.
The point of this post is to really to encourage parents to listen to your children and if they cast vision to help others -- catch it. God is speaking to our children and we need to honor that everyone can be used to further the kingdom.
I loved it! My child was casting vision. We discussed how we could do it. I told her we could not go to all the states now but maybe we could write a letter and send it out...asking for Bibles. I also had to tell her we would probably not be able to get a plane but maybe we could mail the Bibles to Mexico. Although we both agreed it would be cool for it to rain Bibles in Mexico!
My daughter and I wrote a letter and sent it out to family and friends. Kiera collected over 50 Bibles. It was very exciting! Our church sent the Bibles to Mexico.
The point of this post is to really to encourage parents to listen to your children and if they cast vision to help others -- catch it. God is speaking to our children and we need to honor that everyone can be used to further the kingdom.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Full of Sparkle
As a infant and toddler, my daughter went by the nickname, Kiki. On her fifth birthday, after blowing out the candles on her cake, she declared that she wanted to be called Kiera - her given name.
Since Kindergarten would be starting in a few weeks I said that would be a good time to make the name change. I wanted to make sure she was really serious about going by Kiera, so about a week before school started I checked in with her again about the name change.
Me: What do you want your friends to call you at school?
Kiera: Kiera
Me: Are you sure?
Kiera: Well, they could call me Princess Sparkle!
Since Kindergarten would be starting in a few weeks I said that would be a good time to make the name change. I wanted to make sure she was really serious about going by Kiera, so about a week before school started I checked in with her again about the name change.
Me: What do you want your friends to call you at school?
Kiera: Kiera
Me: Are you sure?
Kiera: Well, they could call me Princess Sparkle!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Today is the Day
When Kiera's father Eric left, I told her that he had problems in his heart that he had to get fixed with God. A few years ago, he briefly came back into her life for a few months, he echoed the same words, "he was getting his heart fixed with God."
The Lord has been impressing on my heart for several months that in 2009 I would need to tell Kiera the "rest of the story". I had two people tell me in 2008 she was ready...but I was not ready. I knew my resistance was fear and control manifesting...YUCK! So I prayed and resolved that I would be obedient.
I asked God for the words and He reminded me of a letter that Eric had written to her explaining everything...while it is a painful letter... he explained his drug addiction and recent incarceration but he pointed back to God and how we must keep our eyes on Him or we go astray as he has done.....
On 01/11/09 I felt God say today is the day! I told Kiera that I wanted to talk with her but wanted to pray first...I wanted the Holy Spirit there with me! After praying, I read the letter and Kiera was stunned initially and then she said we must pray for him and we can even ask our church to pray for him. We talked a bit more, prayed, and she cried. About, an hour later Kiera came to me and said, "I am suppose to rip the letter up, forget about the letter and leave it in the past - let go." (I had mixed feelings about this...but felt I was to honor her) I told her OK...she got the letter and RIPPED it up! Immediately, she said, "Mom, I am vibrating - is that joy?" I said yes it is...she shook with the joy of the Lord for a few hours...crying out to the Lord for her father and praying in tongues. Ripping up that letter and leaving it in the past, letting it go... brought the sweet glory of our precious Father. The Lord is so sweet and has comforted her more than I ever could have! Thank you Lord Jesus for being so faithful to us - we love you!
The Lord has been impressing on my heart for several months that in 2009 I would need to tell Kiera the "rest of the story". I had two people tell me in 2008 she was ready...but I was not ready. I knew my resistance was fear and control manifesting...YUCK! So I prayed and resolved that I would be obedient.
I asked God for the words and He reminded me of a letter that Eric had written to her explaining everything...while it is a painful letter... he explained his drug addiction and recent incarceration but he pointed back to God and how we must keep our eyes on Him or we go astray as he has done.....
On 01/11/09 I felt God say today is the day! I told Kiera that I wanted to talk with her but wanted to pray first...I wanted the Holy Spirit there with me! After praying, I read the letter and Kiera was stunned initially and then she said we must pray for him and we can even ask our church to pray for him. We talked a bit more, prayed, and she cried. About, an hour later Kiera came to me and said, "I am suppose to rip the letter up, forget about the letter and leave it in the past - let go." (I had mixed feelings about this...but felt I was to honor her) I told her OK...she got the letter and RIPPED it up! Immediately, she said, "Mom, I am vibrating - is that joy?" I said yes it is...she shook with the joy of the Lord for a few hours...crying out to the Lord for her father and praying in tongues. Ripping up that letter and leaving it in the past, letting it go... brought the sweet glory of our precious Father. The Lord is so sweet and has comforted her more than I ever could have! Thank you Lord Jesus for being so faithful to us - we love you!
I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. John 14:18
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