"What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him."
During college, this was my theme verse. I even had it made into a vinyl quote for my wall. These words speak to the unknown, the new, the unfolding that is college. This verse thrilled me. NO TELLING what God was going to do next. I was sure it would be good.
One evening, I was visiting with a friend at Starbucks and we were discussing this very verse. A man (who happened to be a pastor) overheard our conversation.
"Do you know the next verse, though?" He asked us. "It completes verse 9."
Surprised anyone was listening, we stammered out some response. It was a long time ago and unfortunately I don't really remember what was said. But He smiled kindly and left soon after that.
Fast forward several years to today and I now have a teensy bit more understanding how verses 9 and 10 work together.
“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
See, the unknown and the unfolding are a little less thrilling than they were 5 years ago, because now I realize even more that tragedies can be the next thing around a corner, rather than a triumph. Sometimes what unfolds isn't in our plans. The "not knowing" has lost a little appeal.
But in verse 10, God is promising that he can bring understanding to our spirits through His spirit. Understanding that I need and crave at every twist and turn in the path.
While I still haven't opened my Bible to find a 5-year, or even a 1-year plan yet (I'll let you know if I do), I understand a bit more than a few years ago the beauty of when God reveals things to our spirits.
So to the eavesdropping pastor out there somewhere: you were right. Verses 9 and 10 go hand-in-hand.
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Monday, May 25, 2015
Monday, February 16, 2015
A New Season
A new year brings some chapters to an end and new chapters to start. One of those closing chapters has been leaving TriCorps and pursuing some writing projects God has laid on my heart.
It's been a big step of faith as I love working with my husband, but God has shown me it's time to move on to new adventures.
 |
| Last day as a TriCorps employee 2.13.15 |
Not sure exactly what lies ahead and what it will look like. It's tempting to call this a transition phase and get mired down in all those feelings of "transition," but in the words of one of my favorite authors, all of life is basically a transition. (Shauna Niequist-Paraphrased)
So we press on!
So we press on!
But most of all, there are words to be written and I must go and type.
Sunday, December 14, 2014
O Come, O Come, Glad Tidings Part 2
"O come, o come, Emmanuel..."
The nation of Israel was hungrily looking for the coming of their Savior, for that would signal their rescue, the coming of their redeemer.
Generation after generation had passed since the Messiah was prophesied. As sons grew up to be fathers and into grandfathers, but no sign yet of the promised one, how their anticipation must have been growing. Aging eyes eagerly hunting for any signs...
Awaiting.
Expecting.
Hoping.
In our chapter of the story, Jesus has indeed come, but we wait for His second final coming. We too anticipate meeting our Savior face to face.
On a simpler, daily level- we are all awaiting events and seasons of life it seems, maybe even waiting on something God has promised.
May you take heart anew this Christmas season that waiting is not bad. As Christians, we don't wait alone. The One we look to is indeed present with us now.
"O come, o come Emmanuel..."
Emmanuel- the God who is with us; or more precisely "The With Us God."
I don't know about you, but I need a "With Us God." This name...the intimacy and love it conveys overwhelms me.
Emmanuel is not a far-off thought.
He is not a statue.
He is not dead.
He is with us, cares for us and desires to have a relationship with us.
He has come, and He will come again.
"O come, o come..."
Those simple, pleading lyrics of one of my favorite Christmas carols struck a deeper note with me this year, for it echoes longings we can still identify with today.
Those simple, pleading lyrics of one of my favorite Christmas carols struck a deeper note with me this year, for it echoes longings we can still identify with today.
Awaiting.
Expecting.
Hoping.
In our chapter of the story, Jesus has indeed come, but we wait for His second final coming. We too anticipate meeting our Savior face to face.
On a simpler, daily level- we are all awaiting events and seasons of life it seems, maybe even waiting on something God has promised.
May you take heart anew this Christmas season that waiting is not bad. As Christians, we don't wait alone. The One we look to is indeed present with us now.
"O come, o come Emmanuel..."
Emmanuel- the God who is with us; or more precisely "The With Us God."
I don't know about you, but I need a "With Us God." This name...the intimacy and love it conveys overwhelms me.
Emmanuel is not a far-off thought.
He is not a statue.
He is not dead.
He is with us, cares for us and desires to have a relationship with us.
He has come, and He will come again.
Miss Glad Tidings Part 1? Check it out here!
*I hope you are enjoying my Glad Tidings series! These are some of my favorite songs and little nuggets I felt the Lord spoke to my heart this Christmas season. They are not meant in anyway to be deep theological discussions or exhaustive expositions of the lyrics. I do not own any rights to the music: lyrics or otherwise. The songs were found via YouTube.*
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
I Dance
the art.
the freedom.
grande jeté.
take flight.
bodies.
porte de bras.
breathless.
spinning.
pirouette.
to glide.
to sway.
balancé.
precision.
perfection.
combinations.
formations.
preparations.
stages.
faces.
sweat.
music.
adrenaline.
heart-piercing.
awe-inspiring.
Jesus praising.
Soul.
Liberating.
that is why I dance.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
April 17th, 1994
April 1994. I had just turned 4. It was around Easter and I had some questions.
Questions that would lead to the single-most life-defining decision.
While watching an Easter play on TV with my mom, I started asking,
"Why are they doing that to Jesus?" "What is it for?"
As my mom explained why Jesus died on the cross- to take away my sins so I could live with him forever, I asked very simply,
"Can I have that?"
From that moment on, I became another person that had never existed before.
Because the penalty of death is levied against us based not on what we've done, but because of who we are, our nature, my young self was in just as much need of Christ's blood as the thief on the cross, and God used that moment while I was watching the play to reveal Himself to me.
He gave me a new nature and called me to follow Him, patterning my life after His word, not the world.
And that is what I've done- with mistakes, yes, but my feet have stayed on the path, my hand in His hand.
My walk with the Lord begin at the age of 4 and I have walked closely, unashamedly with Christ ever since. I do not remember a time without Him, and because of that, the Lord recently had me to think about where I would be without Him in my life. Below are my thoughts on that very subject, and please understand that they are only my musings on my own personal life, and not a judgment on anyone else's choices.
Without Christ...I most likely would've experienced dysfunctional views of marriage and family life. How would I know that to live as man and wife is to get a glimpse of Christ's relationship with the Church? Of intimacy that was birthed in the divine? That it is a forever kind of love? That you learn to find freedom and joy in laying down self?
Without Christ...and knowing my own weaknesses, I probably would've become vain, self-involved and judgmental, fearful, not caring about those around me. How would I know any other way? How would I know to love my neighbor as myself, to know that I should combat evil with good? To know that I've been forgiven, so I must extend the same forgiveness?
Without Christ...My involvement in the fine arts would've looked drastically different. The fine arts/entertainment world, as manipulated by Satan, is a dark arena that can turn humans with a genuine gift into self-focused, competitive shadows with the goal of seeking prestige for themselves, while harming others and themselves in that pursuit. How would I know that the glory of earthly success reflecting back on me (instead of God) would actually burn me, not illuminate me?
With Christ, however, I get to experience a love and peace that isn't defined by changing circumstances and guides me no matter what.
So on this April 17th, as I look back over the past 20 years and gaze toward the next 20, I remember lessons learned.
I thank God for triumphs, small and large.
I thank Him even more for times in the valley...
Jesus didn't have to die a horrific death 2,000 years ago. He didn't have to provide a way for me to have a relationship with him. But he did. And he rose again, on that Easter morning so long ago.
He doesn't owe me anything, but He has freely given me everything.
And I owe Him my life.
Because the penalty of death is levied against us based not on what we've done, but because of who we are, our nature, my young self was in just as much need of Christ's blood as the thief on the cross, and God used that moment while I was watching the play to reveal Himself to me.
He gave me a new nature and called me to follow Him, patterning my life after His word, not the world.
And that is what I've done- with mistakes, yes, but my feet have stayed on the path, my hand in His hand.
My walk with the Lord begin at the age of 4 and I have walked closely, unashamedly with Christ ever since. I do not remember a time without Him, and because of that, the Lord recently had me to think about where I would be without Him in my life. Below are my thoughts on that very subject, and please understand that they are only my musings on my own personal life, and not a judgment on anyone else's choices.
Without Christ...I most likely would've experienced dysfunctional views of marriage and family life. How would I know that to live as man and wife is to get a glimpse of Christ's relationship with the Church? Of intimacy that was birthed in the divine? That it is a forever kind of love? That you learn to find freedom and joy in laying down self?
Without Christ...and knowing my own weaknesses, I probably would've become vain, self-involved and judgmental, fearful, not caring about those around me. How would I know any other way? How would I know to love my neighbor as myself, to know that I should combat evil with good? To know that I've been forgiven, so I must extend the same forgiveness?
Without Christ...My involvement in the fine arts would've looked drastically different. The fine arts/entertainment world, as manipulated by Satan, is a dark arena that can turn humans with a genuine gift into self-focused, competitive shadows with the goal of seeking prestige for themselves, while harming others and themselves in that pursuit. How would I know that the glory of earthly success reflecting back on me (instead of God) would actually burn me, not illuminate me?
With Christ, however, I get to experience a love and peace that isn't defined by changing circumstances and guides me no matter what.
So on this April 17th, as I look back over the past 20 years and gaze toward the next 20, I remember lessons learned.
I thank God for triumphs, small and large.
I thank Him even more for times in the valley...
Jesus didn't have to die a horrific death 2,000 years ago. He didn't have to provide a way for me to have a relationship with him. But he did. And he rose again, on that Easter morning so long ago.
He doesn't owe me anything, but He has freely given me everything.
And I owe Him my life.
"What this God has brought me,
What this God has taught me-
Passion and grace, how to stand in one's space
Laughing at lilies, what truly fulfills me
Death on a cross, it was I that was lost
Oh this God has been life to these bones
Oh this God has been life to my bones..."
What this God has taught me-
Passion and grace, how to stand in one's space
Laughing at lilies, what truly fulfills me
Death on a cross, it was I that was lost
Oh this God has been life to these bones
Oh this God has been life to my bones..."
---Kendall Payne, "On My Bones"
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
.listen.
Periodically, I feel the Lord leading me to spend a week quiet in His presence.
Truly quiet. No wrestling with decisions. No distracted praying.
Just... listening.
Listening for His voice in my soul.
 |
| "Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught. The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious; I turned not backward." Isaiah 51:4-5 |
Do we really know how to listen? Remorsefully, I think about how often I fill the time with me and God with words...so many words. Not all bad ones. But do I stop enough to listen to Him? Do I pause long enough to hear His voice?
"Know this, my beloved brothers; let every person be quick to hear..."
James 1:19
In any relationship, there is talking and listening; giving and taking. Why should communicating with God be any different? We've been in those conversations that are really monologues. You can't get a word in to save your life, and if you happen to eke out a few thoughts, it's obvious the other person is just waiting for your mouth to stop moving so they can pick up where they left off.
Are we carrying on a monologue with God?
Our society puts much emphasis on words. Fill the void with words. They don't even have to be helpful or true it seems like...just produce words. We can't let that mentality bleed into our relationship with Jesus. If you find yourself (like me) lacking on listening, don't hesitate to relax in God's presence, close your eyes, and just listen. Whether He has something to say to you or simply wants to bless you with His nearness, let Him have the floor.
God has so refreshed me this week. I have felt His arms wrap around my soul.
He is eager to do the same for you.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Year 1, Lesson 5
Lesson #5: It takes more effort to stay mad, than to actually resolve the issue.
This one is easier said than done because sometimes you feel like you have a such darn good tootin' reason to be fired up. Maybe so, but it takes a lot of effort to be offended and to stay offended. With everything else life has to offer, I'm learning that maybe I don't want to waste time on being offended. That mindset doesn't help anyone and it sure doesn't benefit you.
It is a choice, but make the choice to not stay angry and offended. Life's too short for that.
Love,
The Hannis
It is a choice, but make the choice to not stay angry and offended. Life's too short for that.
Love,
The Hannis
Saturday, January 19, 2013
God My Stronghold
I don't know about you, but I feel like our culture has worked overtime in order to outdo each other in deception. We've seen it all in the past 7 days:
Conspiracies. Hoaxes. Lies.
I'm really writing this note to myself, because I wanted to read something that wasn't a hoax, a conspiracy or a lie. If you too are weary of that, please read on.
During my devo time, the Lord brought to mind this old worship song:
"And Lord you are my hope
Because you've created in me
A heart that lives the victory
That you've already won.
"Oh Lord you're my protection from my enemies,
You've set me high upon a rock and you defend my soul.
And when their ways advance against me, I am confident
That they cannot make me less, for you have made me whole."
This is the news story that God want his children to always turn their hearts toward. I can't tell you how this song blessed me this morning.
He is perfect protection.
He is Truth.
He is hope to all who will have Him.
I knew this and I believed this, but my "knower" I guess had to be reminded.
Maybe you don't buy into all this. I would ask you if you aren't tired as well of all the lies. Wouldn't you like for just once something to be true? For something to work out in your favor?
Conspiracies. Hoaxes. Lies.
I'm really writing this note to myself, because I wanted to read something that wasn't a hoax, a conspiracy or a lie. If you too are weary of that, please read on.
During my devo time, the Lord brought to mind this old worship song:
"And Lord you are my hope
Because you've created in me
A heart that lives the victory
That you've already won.
"Oh Lord you're my protection from my enemies,
You've set me high upon a rock and you defend my soul.
And when their ways advance against me, I am confident
That they cannot make me less, for you have made me whole."
This is the news story that God want his children to always turn their hearts toward. I can't tell you how this song blessed me this morning.
He is perfect protection.
He is Truth.
He is hope to all who will have Him.
I knew this and I believed this, but my "knower" I guess had to be reminded.
Maybe you don't buy into all this. I would ask you if you aren't tired as well of all the lies. Wouldn't you like for just once something to be true? For something to work out in your favor?
"Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed."
Lamentations 3:22
I think it's obvious that left to our own devices, devoid of God, we consume each other.
From Psalm 73, NLT version:
"These fat cats have everything their hearts could wish for!
They scoff and speak only evil; in their pride they seek to crush others.
They boast against the very heavens, and their words strut throughout the earth.
And so the people are dismayed and confused,
drinking in all their words.
'What does God know?' they ask.
'Does the Most High even know what's happening?'
Yes, He does.
"Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction.
Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside...
Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand.
Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth.
My health may fail, and my spirit grow weak,
but GOD remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever."
Be encouraged, friends. God is still on the throne.
I don't know about you, but that's the best news I've read all week.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
A Noteworthy Year: Twenty Twelve
A blinking cursor.
A big white square. That's what's facing me right now as I grasp for words to outline the past 12 months.
Among many other things...
College graduation.
Best friend's engagement.
My engagement.
Best friend's wedding.
First devotions published
My wedding.
Also throw in a honeymoon, church change, new house, and new part-time job at TriCorps.
Fullness. Newness. Growth. Dreams reaching maturity and blossoming in my hands.
Numerous words have already been spoken on each of these amazing milestones; I am only left with a humble and grateful heart.
I am married to the most incredible man (for his end of the year blog post, click here) and blessed beyond belief to be his wife. My jobs right now are awesome, fulfilling and challenging- and very different from each other!
I have a beautiful home I get to decorate and fix up with my husband.
We both have excellent families that we get to live life with. I could go on...
Tear off that calendar page
What now? What is God speaking to me to focus on for 2013?
The words that keeps resonating in my spirit are: hungry, learn, grow.
Hungry for more of God.
Thirsty to learn.
Eager to grow.
I've been filled to the brim and even overflowing this year, but in an odd way, that makes me realize I do need God more and more every day so I can constantly learn, I can constantly grow, and I constantly bless and influence those around me. That gives me an appetite for God he promises to satisfy. (Matt. 5:6)
What words are echoing in your soul as you close your eyes on 2012 and open them to 2013?
A big white square. That's what's facing me right now as I grasp for words to outline the past 12 months.
But blankness is certainly not what lies behind:
 |
| Lunch at Vast |
Among many other things...
College graduation.
Best friend's engagement.
My engagement.
Best friend's wedding.
First devotions published
My wedding.
Also throw in a honeymoon, church change, new house, and new part-time job at TriCorps.
Fullness. Newness. Growth. Dreams reaching maturity and blossoming in my hands.
Numerous words have already been spoken on each of these amazing milestones; I am only left with a humble and grateful heart.
I am married to the most incredible man (for his end of the year blog post, click here) and blessed beyond belief to be his wife. My jobs right now are awesome, fulfilling and challenging- and very different from each other!
I have a beautiful home I get to decorate and fix up with my husband.
We both have excellent families that we get to live life with. I could go on...
Tear off that calendar page
What now? What is God speaking to me to focus on for 2013?
The words that keeps resonating in my spirit are: hungry, learn, grow.
Hungry for more of God.
Thirsty to learn.
Eager to grow.
I've been filled to the brim and even overflowing this year, but in an odd way, that makes me realize I do need God more and more every day so I can constantly learn, I can constantly grow, and I constantly bless and influence those around me. That gives me an appetite for God he promises to satisfy. (Matt. 5:6)
What words are echoing in your soul as you close your eyes on 2012 and open them to 2013?
"For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things." Psalm 107:9
Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Of Stars and Whales
This morning in Sunday School, we watched a neat video as part of a special worship/testimony time at the end of the year.
Before you read further, please check out the video we watched. It goes by fast and at least for me, it instantly and radically changed how I viewed the praises rising up to surround our Creator.
Stars and whales...wow.
We have no idea the sounds without words (intelligibly to our ear, that is) that must surround the throne of God Most High. For some reason, I have no trouble imagining this.
Praise him, all you shining stars.
I honestly don't have anything insightful or clever to say about this video. All I know is that it lit me up on the inside to imagine creation crying out in wordless praise to the same God that I praise, and I want everyone that is willing to catch a glimpse of that too.
Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures.
Praise the Lord.
Before you read further, please check out the video we watched. It goes by fast and at least for me, it instantly and radically changed how I viewed the praises rising up to surround our Creator.
Stars and whales...wow.
We have no idea the sounds without words (intelligibly to our ear, that is) that must surround the throne of God Most High. For some reason, I have no trouble imagining this.
Praise him, all you shining stars.
I honestly don't have anything insightful or clever to say about this video. All I know is that it lit me up on the inside to imagine creation crying out in wordless praise to the same God that I praise, and I want everyone that is willing to catch a glimpse of that too.
Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures.
Praise the Lord.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
It Was the Last of Times, It Was the First of Times
Hello readers,
This is Samantha Hanni, the writer formerly known as Samantha Maloy. I would've blogged sooner, but it's later...so whatever. In case you hadn't heard...
And I couldn't be more thrilled, contented, or excited.
Where do I begin? The week leading up to the wedding proceeded smoothly, all things considered. But nearly everyday brought the poignant thought of "This is the last time that..."
The week that never was close, never seemed like it was going to happen was right here: happening, rushing over and past me in a wave that I couldn't control.
However, I did my best to soak in the water from the wedding wave (or hurricane. or tsunami. K never mind that's being dramatic.) and I loved and felt that week more deeply than I thought was possible.
As you can see, the long awaited day started for me bright and early! After that, I don't remember much... except that we got hitched!
No, for real...the day appeared, existed, then vanished.
The day went incredibly smooth though (at least it seemed like that...if there are conflicting stories, please keep those to yourself! Haha.) Many many thanks for all who helped it run so smoothly. Your thank you card will be arriving soon in the mail. I promise!!
Then we were on our own. Finally. Just ourselves, headed to relax in the Florida Keys for a whole week.
By the end of the week, we were both ready to be back in our lovely Oklahoma and start living life again, but living it together. Just two weeks before had been a week of lasts. Now it was a week of firsts. First time to go to the grocery store, first time to plan and cook meals -all by myself!- first time for Kurtis to come home to me, first time to make our bed, first time to come home together after a Thunder game, first first first!
Everything we have planned, prayed and dreamed about, we are living out now, with more and more to come. I can already say it is a beautiful, restoring, challenging journey.
We aren't perfect, but I can say this without a doubt: Kurtis was created to be a husband and I was created to be a wife. It is an energizing, powerful thing to be living out the role you were created for. Glory to our Creator, and the One who holds our lives and marriage in His hands.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Hanni
This is Samantha Hanni, the writer formerly known as Samantha Maloy. I would've blogged sooner, but it's later...so whatever. In case you hadn't heard...
I am now a wife!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have a husband!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 |
| Wedding photography featured in this post by Valerie Sebestyen. Check out my or her FB page for the complete album. |
And I couldn't be more thrilled, contented, or excited.
Where do I begin? The week leading up to the wedding proceeded smoothly, all things considered. But nearly everyday brought the poignant thought of "This is the last time that..."
The week that never was close, never seemed like it was going to happen was right here: happening, rushing over and past me in a wave that I couldn't control.
However, I did my best to soak in the water from the wedding wave (or hurricane. or tsunami. K never mind that's being dramatic.) and I loved and felt that week more deeply than I thought was possible.
As you can see, the long awaited day started for me bright and early! After that, I don't remember much... except that we got hitched!
No, for real...the day appeared, existed, then vanished.
The day went incredibly smooth though (at least it seemed like that...if there are conflicting stories, please keep those to yourself! Haha.) Many many thanks for all who helped it run so smoothly. Your thank you card will be arriving soon in the mail. I promise!!
Then we were on our own. Finally. Just ourselves, headed to relax in the Florida Keys for a whole week.
 |
| Pigeon Key |
 |
| Reppin' Shimmers in the Atlantic Ocean! |
 |
| I don't even know... |
 |
| Marker 88 Restaurant |
 |
| Outside our resort |
 |
| Shark Valley- Everglades |
 |
| Photographing a cute little lizard |
 |
| Self-explanatory |
 |
| Random signs I found amusing |
 |
| .together. |
By the end of the week, we were both ready to be back in our lovely Oklahoma and start living life again, but living it together. Just two weeks before had been a week of lasts. Now it was a week of firsts. First time to go to the grocery store, first time to plan and cook meals -all by myself!- first time for Kurtis to come home to me, first time to make our bed, first time to come home together after a Thunder game, first first first!
Everything we have planned, prayed and dreamed about, we are living out now, with more and more to come. I can already say it is a beautiful, restoring, challenging journey.
We aren't perfect, but I can say this without a doubt: Kurtis was created to be a husband and I was created to be a wife. It is an energizing, powerful thing to be living out the role you were created for. Glory to our Creator, and the One who holds our lives and marriage in His hands.
 |
Sincerely,
Mrs. Hanni
Monday, September 10, 2012
Are You Happy With Now?
What if you were completely satisfied with this moment right now?
I started thinking last night how much of our time and energy is spent in anticipation of:
the weekend
next month
November 3 (Oh wait, I think that's just me...)
a different season
freshman year
senior year
another year
another time
another place.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this kind of thinking; anticipation can be good. Planning is necessary.
But are you able to set all that aside as needed and be genuinely satisfied with the present?
If yes, great. You don't have to finish reading this post.
If not, let's chat a bit more.
Truthfully, I'm preaching to myself right now. Truthfully, I am living in GREAT anticipation for that November 3 date when my fiance and I will finally be man and wife, and there is nothing wrong with that. Truthfully, I did not expect it to be so hard to be satisfied with my here and now, and that struggle is refining me.
So I go back to God's Word. Psalm 118:24 says, "THIS is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
I cannot dismiss the utter gift that right now is, because it will never happen again. There is much to do, much to say, much to listen to, much to be each day. Jim Elliot once said, "Wherever you are, be all there." Be all here. In this day. THIS day. Not 2 weeks from now. Not next month. Not 2 months from now. Not 5 years from now.
I encourage you all, as I am firmly encouraging myself, to finish drinking all now has to offer before moving on to...
...whatever's next.
I started thinking last night how much of our time and energy is spent in anticipation of:
the weekend
next month
November 3 (Oh wait, I think that's just me...)
a different season
freshman year
senior year
another year
another time
another place.
There is nothing inherently wrong with this kind of thinking; anticipation can be good. Planning is necessary.
But are you able to set all that aside as needed and be genuinely satisfied with the present?
If yes, great. You don't have to finish reading this post.
If not, let's chat a bit more.
Truthfully, I'm preaching to myself right now. Truthfully, I am living in GREAT anticipation for that November 3 date when my fiance and I will finally be man and wife, and there is nothing wrong with that. Truthfully, I did not expect it to be so hard to be satisfied with my here and now, and that struggle is refining me.
So I go back to God's Word. Psalm 118:24 says, "THIS is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
I cannot dismiss the utter gift that right now is, because it will never happen again. There is much to do, much to say, much to listen to, much to be each day. Jim Elliot once said, "Wherever you are, be all there." Be all here. In this day. THIS day. Not 2 weeks from now. Not next month. Not 2 months from now. Not 5 years from now.
I encourage you all, as I am firmly encouraging myself, to finish drinking all now has to offer before moving on to...
...whatever's next.
"Let not our longing slay our appetite for living."
--- Jim Elliot
Monday, August 20, 2012
10 Things God Will (Most Likely) Never Say
I don’t know about you, but I love making lists of my favorite things. Top 10 Books, Favorite Foods, Top Dream Vacations, 10 Random Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Me; you name it, I have probably made a list for it.
It’s human nature to list things; it’s one way we can define ourselves and put parameters around our lives. Lists are tangible.
Our desire for the tangible can get us in trouble when we relate to God. God does not think how we think, nor does he approach schedules and situations (if He even calls them that) how we, our family, or our friends approach them.
Here is a list of phrases that though we may say them all the time, we will never ever hear God say:
- “Oops!”
- “Wait…what?”
- “Wait…who?”
- “Oh, crap!”
- “Well, that was stupid of me.”
- “I guess I forgot…”
- “If at first I don’t succeed…”
- “My alarm didn’t go off…I guess.”
- “I just didn’t have time.”
- “You just don’t understand MY schedule and MY life right now!”
Let’s praise God that he won’t ever say those things! He is perfect, He never forgets, and He is on top of things.
Isaiah 50:2 says, “Was my arm too short to ransom you? Do I lack the strength to rescue you? By a mere rebuke I dry up the sea.”
Backing up one chapter, Isaiah 49:15-16 says, “Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.”
Let's face it: we sometimes have Dori-like memories when it comes to how God works in our lives. We're human and mistakes ARE going to be made. However, we must daily (maybe even hourly?) remind ourselves that though we may have our problems with excuses, forgetfulness, and mistakes, God doesn't, and He has promised that His grace is sufficient to cover our weaknesses. Isn’t it cool to have a friend like that?
Sunday, August 12, 2012
5 Worship Songs that Never Leave My iPod
In my quiet time this morning, I started thinking about some of my favorite worship songs and I realized that there are only a handful that have stayed on my iPod (and now iPhone) since I got my first Apple product on my 16th birthday.
Here are the 5 songs that never leave my iPod and my favorite lines/scriptures that match up with them.
3) It is Well With My Soul
1) Medley: In Christ Alone/Solid Rock
No guilt in life, no fear in death, this is the power of Christ in me,
From life's first cry, to final breath. Jesus commands my destiny.
This is another thought that has occured to me: In a way, this technology has enhanced my relationship with God. Here's why: sometimes you have to have church by yourself.
There have been many late nights or other random times where I have needed to put on some worship music and put myself before the throne of God. And having my music in this format allows me to have a worship service ready to go in my pocket, and it won't disturb anyone else! Haha!
Happy Sunday everyone :)
Here are the 5 songs that never leave my iPod and my favorite lines/scriptures that match up with them.
5) Take My Life (And Let it Be)
Take my intellect, and use every power as you choose.
Take my will, and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine;
Take my heart, it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne.
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart
Take my will, and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine;
Take my heart, it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne.
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart
and with all your soul and with all your mind."
Matthew 22:37
4) Praise to the Lord the Almighty
Praise to the Lord, O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath
Come now with praises before Him.
All that hath life and breath
Come now with praises before Him.
3) It is Well With My Soul
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, it is well, it is well, with my soul.
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, it is well, it is well, with my soul.
"Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you."
2) Lord, You're Holy
Wonderful, glorious, holy and righteous, victorious conqueror, triumphant and mighty.
Healer, deliverer, shield and defense, strong tower and my best friend.
Omnipotent, Omnipresent, soon coming King, Alpha, Omega, Lord of everything;
holy, holy, holy is Your name.
Healer, deliverer, shield and defense, strong tower and my best friend.
Omnipotent, Omnipresent, soon coming King, Alpha, Omega, Lord of everything;
holy, holy, holy is Your name.
"For I am God, and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me."
Isaiah 46:9
1) Medley: In Christ Alone/Solid Rock
No guilt in life, no fear in death, this is the power of Christ in me,
From life's first cry, to final breath. Jesus commands my destiny.
This is another thought that has occured to me: In a way, this technology has enhanced my relationship with God. Here's why: sometimes you have to have church by yourself.
There have been many late nights or other random times where I have needed to put on some worship music and put myself before the throne of God. And having my music in this format allows me to have a worship service ready to go in my pocket, and it won't disturb anyone else! Haha!
Happy Sunday everyone :)
Thursday, July 19, 2012
7-19-11
One year ago today, I asked God for something rather specific.
This request is written on a piece of wood and is from a sermon that our church does every year. It represents "staking your claim" in God's promises and is a visual representation of what you have asked God for in faith. (Another story behind this...ask me some other time!)
So here I was. I was getting ready to start my senior year. I was going back to teaching. I was in a very good place in my relationship with the Lord. I was really happy with where I was in life. But I wanted to ask God this one thing...
There was no one I was interested in at the time and I was looking at finishing school in just nine short months. In my mind, it was a reasonable request that I at least meet the man who I would marry and begin to build a friendship that would eventually turn into something more. If that still wasn't in God's timing for this year, then ok. At least I'd asked. And of course I had been praying about who I would marry for years, thinking about qualities that I desired, and actually praying FOR whoever that man would be.
But this time, it just felt different.
Anyway, back to 7-19-11....
About two weeks from that day, my friend Claire Myers told me about "this guy" from her church. (Also another crazy story in and of itself!)
Then on 8-18-11, I met Kurtis Hanni for the first time at the Starbucks by dance.
Then one month from that first meeting, we were dating.
Then nine months later, we got engaged.
So here I am a year later, planning a wedding and preparing to become a wife to the most loving, intelligent, God-fearing, funny, handsome man I have EVER met.
I am thrilled beyond words.
Yet I managed to find a few for this post :)
I share this because I am always encouraged when I hear or read about God answering prayers and working in the lives of fellow believers. My story...our story!... isn't a formula or a blueprint, but yet another piece of unique evidence of a faithful God.
And He is so very faithful...goodness...I can hardly articulate it.
"...no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him."
1 Cor. 2:9
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
It Won't Be Taken Away
In today's selection from Jesus Calling, a scripture resonated with me in a way that it hadn't before.
"...You have chosen the better thing and it will not be taken away from you."
This scripture is Luke 10:42 and is referring to the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus was commenting on Mary's choice to commune with Him and how that wouldn't be taken from her.
The devo today talked about the rewards of choosing to commune with God even though sometimes it is not appreciated or even misunderstood by others, like in the story of Mary and Martha. God promises returns when we choose Him, and those rewards are not to be taken away.
This hit home with me as recently I found out that my internship will not pan out how I desired. I enjoyed the work, was very good at it and have received excellent feedback from my immediate superiors. For reasons beyond my control and theirs, it just simply isn't going to pan out beyond the end of July.
A choice is before me: blare my "I'm discouraged" horn (and in this case, I would have good reason to) or hum a different tune.
As we all know, throughout our lives there are seemingly worthwhile ventures that we invest ourselves in and seemingly get nothing. They are "taken away from us," so to speak. It is an encouraging reminder as God's kids that no matter what endeavors in our lives fail to bring returns or are taken away from us, those daily decisions to commune with Him, the hourly decisions to choose HIM over all, will never fail to reward and it can't be taken away from us. I like that kind of security. That's just how it works in God's economy.
God's economy > any other economy.
"...You have chosen the better thing and it will not be taken away from you."
This scripture is Luke 10:42 and is referring to the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus was commenting on Mary's choice to commune with Him and how that wouldn't be taken from her.
The devo today talked about the rewards of choosing to commune with God even though sometimes it is not appreciated or even misunderstood by others, like in the story of Mary and Martha. God promises returns when we choose Him, and those rewards are not to be taken away.
This hit home with me as recently I found out that my internship will not pan out how I desired. I enjoyed the work, was very good at it and have received excellent feedback from my immediate superiors. For reasons beyond my control and theirs, it just simply isn't going to pan out beyond the end of July.
A choice is before me: blare my "I'm discouraged" horn (and in this case, I would have good reason to) or hum a different tune.
As we all know, throughout our lives there are seemingly worthwhile ventures that we invest ourselves in and seemingly get nothing. They are "taken away from us," so to speak. It is an encouraging reminder as God's kids that no matter what endeavors in our lives fail to bring returns or are taken away from us, those daily decisions to commune with Him, the hourly decisions to choose HIM over all, will never fail to reward and it can't be taken away from us. I like that kind of security. That's just how it works in God's economy.
God's economy > any other economy.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
A Prayer
This is a prayer I jotted down in my journal 3-4 years ago. I posted it on my blog last April, but never posted a link to it. I felt like I wanted to share it again on this fine Saturday.
Blessings to you all! Have a wonderful day :)
I have learned much, lost much, and gained much. And I by no means feel that I have reached a plateau. I cannot afford that luxury. Such is the ebb and flow of life.
Oh Father, I am so humbled by you. You have made us in your image; yet we are eternally-bound beings in mortally-bound bodies. You have called us to share the Good News, but there is not a more leaky bunch of jars to carry that Water of Life than us.
Yet you so patiently hold us, patch us, reshape us, and pour us out and fill us up at the right time, your time.
Blessings to you all! Have a wonderful day :)
I have learned much, lost much, and gained much. And I by no means feel that I have reached a plateau. I cannot afford that luxury. Such is the ebb and flow of life.
Oh Father, I am so humbled by you. You have made us in your image; yet we are eternally-bound beings in mortally-bound bodies. You have called us to share the Good News, but there is not a more leaky bunch of jars to carry that Water of Life than us.
Yet you so patiently hold us, patch us, reshape us, and pour us out and fill us up at the right time, your time.
Your love permeates every cell of my body. It wraps around me, soothes me, whispers in my ear as I lay exhausted in my bed and directs me as I hurry to class.
I look for you everywhere, God. I find you in so many places throughout the day. You gift me with breath in my lungs, the dawn, and unending mercies every day. A second chance. I see your glory in the skies.
I see and rejoice in your unfailing beauty in the flowers- in the trees.
I listen for you in other peoples’ voices. I earnestly seek for evidence of you in their lives to see if I have found a brother or sister.
I rejoice in your safety. Who knows how many times you have shielded me from harm, the unsavory eye, my own self?
God, I feel your love when I am with those who I love. What sweet fellowship!
I savor, I store up, I rejoice in those quiet moments with you when your peace steals over my soul. Peace I don’t deserve. Peace that I should not be having- but it’s there.
I am further humbled when, though I am your child, you reveal areas in my life that have previously hid from your light. Areas I would have said were fine. Areas I jealously guard. Let it all come under your jurisdiction.
One thing I ask of-this is what I seek: to do for others, to live beyond myself. I do not wish to be an ending place, but a starting point for you to reach peoples’ lives. This world needs you God.
Hear my heart, know my thoughts. Keep me in the shadow of your wings.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
A Huge Gaping Abyss
Here is another devo from the vault! I wrote this Aug/Sept of my freshman year in college. I have grown a lot in the area of trusting God with my future since then, but thought it would be cool to post this before my LAST WEEK of regular classes (maybe ever?) starts up.
Enjoy!
I recently attended a leadership orientation for my scholarship group. As is typical with these types of orientations, we got to partake in a variety of icebreakers. One such task, though relatively simple, proved amazingly hard for me.
Picture this: you and your partner. Small balls on the ground. Your partner directs you to the balls and you throw the balls to try to tag the other people out by listening to your partner’s instructions.
Oh yeah, and you are blindfolded, as are the other people you are trying to tag.
Since I went first, my partner actually had to lead me out of the room where we were meeting to the playing space outside. Here is where I ran into my problem.
I couldn’t see.
I didn’t know what to expect next.
Any step could be my last (okay, not really but just play along). The next step could plunge me into a huge gaping abyss.
Even with my partner leading me by the elbow and reassuring me I was on solid ground, I literally could not tell my legs to take bigger steps out to the yard. I was taking little baby steps. My partner eventually dragged me the rest of the way down the path.
Why would I be telling you this?
This is a message the Lord has been teaching me through a variety of circumstances. Even if we can’t see or think one moment ahead, He has already been there and back again.
Proverbs 20:24 says, “A man’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?”
Why is it so hard to just let go and trust? I was slightly appalled at how even though someone was telling me,”Hey, it’s okay, take bigger steps,” I absolutely refused to take bigger steps for fear of plummeting to the ground and making a fool of myself.
Can’t you just hear the Lord saying, “Hey, it’s okay. I am right here. Take bigger steps”?
Isaiah 43:1-2, Psalm 139:16, Proverbs 3:5-6
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