Pray for Someone

Our pastor said something today that stuck with me...he said that when someone isn't on our hearts, they're probably on our nerves. He meant that if we aren't focused on loving people through God's eyes, we'll get in a rut of being annoyed by them.

Have you ever people-watched in public? We went to the zoo this weekend and I found myself asking my husband if he thought the animals watched us just as much as we watch them... People do some of the strangest things. And sometimes, we even act like animals! It's easy to let people get on our nerves because they're human and so are we. There isn't one of us who is perfect, no matter how much our mothers told us we were when we were kiddos.

Try picking a person who really gets under your skin. Think of that person right now. Those are "sandpaper people". They "rub you the wrong way", big time. Our pastor also likes to say that if you find yourself constantly having imaginary conversations with that person; telling them off and saying everything you've ever wanted to say without remorse, that's your sandpaper person. So now that you've got that person in your head, try praying for them. It doesn't mean having to LIKE them...pray that God would watch them and that they would make good decisions. Pray that God would love them through you and give you a sense of peace around this person. And, finally pray that God would speak to their heart. You might be completely amazed at what God can do when you ask.

Have a great week!

"Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Colossians 3:12

A Little Peace

I've been watching as the seasons are changing...winter is over and spring is creeping in. I say, creeping, because it's always back and forth in Indiana weather! Looking out the window, I noticed yesterday that we have a dove nesting in our deck flower box. I peeked in and she has two lovely, ivory eggs. I knew there would be a nest nearby because she and her mate have been sitting on our deck since February...looking like they were surveying the area.

We had a strong storm come through last night and all I could think about was that little dove, sitting out in the flower box, holding fast against the strong winds and rain to peacefully watch over her little eggs. God does that for us, you know. In the midst of turmoil, he holds fast against the storm, protecting us from chaos all around. It doesn't mean we are oblivious to the chaos, just peacefully cared for during the storm.

It may feel like life is chaos all around right now. You may be suffering hurt and wondering where God is. He isn't far. He's holding you and offering peace if you'll trust him.

"I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn't like the peace that this world can give. So don't be worried or afraid." John 14:27 (CEV)

"He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our sins; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

"Don't worry over anything whatever; whenever you pray, tell God every detail of your needs in thankful prayer, and the peace of God, which surpasses human understanding, will keep constant guard over your hearts and minds as they rest in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:6-7 (Phillips version)