SCRIPTURE: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
OBSERVATION: King Solomon’s words were clear. Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Seek God’s will. God will show you which path to take. And yet, we are quick to forget that these truths are packaged in a warning… Do not depend on your own understanding. How are you doing with that one? If I’m being honest, I could be doing much better at this.
APPLICATION: It’s been a while since I journaled. I’ve started multiple entries, but never finished them.. 2020 has been anything but dull, throwing challenge after challenge at us to navigate. So, this morning I find myself at a place where I’m desiring more than anything to be in God’s presence. I’m a Son who needs to hear who I am, defined by my Heavenly Father, not by circumstances nor people’s opinions.
So, I sit here at this coffee shop the same way I have been for the past 7 years expecting Jesus to speak by the Holy Spirit. And He does. Every time. It’s up to me to make the time and slow down to receive what Heaven is saying for me personally. I’ve been on the go for far too long. It’s nice to be back in a place of peace, ready to receive.
Yesterday, I was out Fly Fishing in the rain. It was glorious. No one around for the entire day. Just me and the beautiful PNW beauty this ambivert needs to charge my batteries after a long week of talking with people hour after hour… Makes me tired just typing that!
As I was enjoying my time on The River, I received a text from my Son who just moved to California. He had some not-so-good news and a challenge that he now has to navigate due to someone else’s immaturity. As I started texting him, I realized this warranted more than a string of texts. So I called him.
We talked for nearly an hour about how good Jesus is and how his situation is actually a Possibility Instead of a Problem. I know, I know, sounds like “Christianese”… but it’s not. In fact, this stuff is so serious, I likened it unto war. Strategies will rise and fall, coming against the advancing of God’s Kingdom. Most of the time, unseen and at the most inopportune time.
So I blessed my Son. Let him know how much I love him and am proud of him. That is first and foremost. The rest is secondary. Once he knew my heart for him, I could let it fly. We talked about our relationship over the past few years and how he is truly ready for this.
Why? Well, I’ve had the opportunity as a Dad to share many “Tower Talks” on Prophetic Leadership. My intent was to let my son into my world and mentor him in realtime in order to prepare him for his own life adventures that were on the horizon. Relationship with Jesus is first. Prophetic Leadership is second.
Now, in this season of having my kids launch from the SS Robison, It’s a joy to have them circle back for more Tower Talks in their new life chapters. I get to open the Comms and lead this Family Convoy from a new place of influence. I am so proud of my kids! And they know whatever may come, I am here for them. They also know that Jesus’ love overcomes!
By the end of the hour, my Son was encouraged. He understood Biblical principles that are at play and his role in them. There was a confidence in his voice that was not there earlier. It made me so happy to hear the the change. And to understand that he was not alone. He will be seeking God’s will and follow the direction of the Holy Spirit. He also knows that our Heavenly Father is just as proud of him as I am. My work is done here… until the next call 😉
This reminded me of the movie Greyhound that came out recently. The Captain was responsible for leading and protecting the Convoy crossing the Atlantic’s Black Pit… without Air Support for 5 days:
So many Leadership Principles in this movie. I understand that men will always have the woman they love on their radar. Always looking for them in their mind’s eye, even if they are 1,000 miles away. I understand life is unfair. I understand advancing the Kingdom will come with opposition. I understand attacks will come when we are most vulnerable. I understand victory comes at a cost. I understand that Freedom is worth the cost. And many more to list here…
But what got me the most was the opening and closing scenes where Captain Krause started and ended with prayer. Mind you… 5 days had passed. Opening and closing with an exhausted, bloody yet victorious man who chose to kneel in humility to his King Jesus, giving credit for where credit is due.
I want to be such a man. So when the Comms open up confirming we have hits directly on the Convoy, may I be a Leader who trusts in You Jesus. Even when the distress flares fly and the fear sets in, may I be a man who trusts Your Word instead of the Propaganda of the Wolfpack. In those moments and even days of action, may you lead me and guide me through to the other side to victory. And may I be a man of humility giving credit for guiding me through those darkest hours.
PRAYER: Thank you Jesus for reminding me the importance of depending on Your word. I’m also reminded that what I did yesterday to get us here today is not enough. Not nearly enough. In this new season of leading my family through new and unknown waters, may You be the one who guides us. Even when others are not able to journey with us, leaving us without air support, may we remember that Your Love Overcomes!
SCRIPTURE: “But whatever happens… I WILL RUN.” (2 Samuel 18:23)
OBSERVATION: Ahimaaz, son of Zadok, was a Frontlines Messenger commissioned to bring good news to the King. But this was not that day. The King’s son was dead. Absolam had been impaled by not one but three spears through the heart, while hanging from a tree.
How, you may ask? A turn of events sent this rebellious son and so-called leader into the thicket of the great oaks by his spooked mule that kept on running from fear of David’s soldiers in pursuit. The arms of the great oak trees violently ripped Absolam from the saddle hanging by his hair, helpless… You can’t make this stuff up?! It’s almost like Treebeard from Fangorn Forest leading the Last March of The Ents in the LOTR… Hehe, well maybe not 😉
Back in the General’s Tent, stood two young men. The Cushite received his marching orders to bring King David the bitter news. Victory was his, but at the cost of his son’s life. As the Cushite ran out of the tent to complete his mission, there remained another standing at attention. Ahimaaz stood by as an unqualified messenger. You see, his job was to run with Good News. This was not his race to run. Yet his request broke the silence in an unconventional way:
Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said, “Please let me run and bring the king news that the Lord has freed him from the hand of his enemies.”20 But Joab said to him, “You are not the man to carry news this day, but you shall carry news another day; however, you shall carry no news today because the king’s son is dead.”21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, “Go, tell the king what you have seen.” So the Cushite bowed to Joab and ran.22 Now Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said once more to Joab, “But whatever happens, please let me also run after the Cushite.” And Joab said, “Why would you run, my son, since you will have no reward for going?”23 “But whatever happens,” he said, “I will run.” So he said to him, “Run.” Then Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain and passed up the Cushite.
APPLICATION: “But whatever happens… I will run.”
I’ve been thinking about this principle of being a Frontlines Messenger for decades. I’ve journaled multiple times about Ahimaaz’ story. Recently, the movie 1917 was an epic adventure that put my imagination of Trench Warfare and these Runners on the screen. If you haven’t seen it. Go watch it… Today!
Every Christian has a calling this side of heaven that will carry over throughout eternity. Hearts carry the life saving message of Jesus Christ into their spheres of influence. The Good News travels with us, even to the most remote corners of the world. Over the years and even recently, I’ve been inspired by meeting men and women who share their faithfulness following Jesus in their Family, Business, Studies, Marriage, Ministry, Missionary adventures and more…
So for me, this morning… I suppose I’m reminded of the “Why” behind the running. Ahimaaz respected those in authority by asking for permission to run. When he was told no, that it wasn’t in his job description, Ahimaaz declared that he was going to run the race no matter what.
It was his heart’s cry and passion that fueled his desire to run with all his might to be beside his King when the Cushite brought the bitter news from the frontlines. I want to be that man. How about you? Does your heart beat a bit faster at the thought of giving it all you have for the ones you love? I’ve been there.
But what happens when you’ve been on the frontlines far too long? Some give up. Some are casualties of war. Some are prisoners of war. Others are the rare few that travel through all of those life chapters and more… and yet, Never Give Up.
They somehow got back up again and again and again… & are still running the race?! This is a glimpse into my story. I am Eric Richard Robison, a Bible Communicator & Bridge Builder. A Gentle General in the Kingdom.
Scars and all… I’m still running my race. Doesn’t make sense. Unconventional at best. Misunderstood by most. Yet, now more than ever, I have a conviction and passion to run the race for an audience of one. I run with and follow Jesus.
“Off the Map” was a phrase I titled this blog to journal my journeys with Jesus years ago. After nearly 7 years into this adventure, I’m more confident now than ever that I’m on the right path and pace. It may not look nor feel like it at times. That’s ok. Good stories have protagonists, antagonists, conflict, betrayal, victory and a message that withstands time.
In order to have such a song and a story… I’ve chosen to never give up. I’ve chosen to count the cost. I’ve chosen to give my life time and time and time again for legacy sake. My heart cry over the years on this platform to Jesus is simply “Make it Count”….
In other words, “But Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”
I have a Song & a Story… So Do You!
I cracked my Bible open the other night on my nightstand when I couldn’t sleep and read the words of King David that pretty much sums it up:
“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. 3 He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord.” (Psalm 40:1-3)
All of us are Wayfaring Strangers in this land. However, don’t for a moment believe the journey is for not! Our lives this side of heaven, if placed in the hands of Jesus, will have eternal impact. Lives depend on it.
Did you hear it too?… That kick to the side followed by a voice overhead waking me out of my slumber, “Robison… Pick a Man. Bring Your Kit.” Now we both stand at attention in the General’s Tent. I’ve been on the Frontlines… I know what awaits us… and yet my heart cry remains, “Whatever Happens… I Will Run.”
SCRIPTURE: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)
OBSERVATION: Jesus continued His Sermon on the Mount with those who had gathered and gave their attention. Many life principles were shared that day that still apply to our lives in the 21st Century. Love spoke Life to hearts that day. He’s still speaking.
If you listen closely, you may be surprised at what cuts through the silence of your circumstances. The faint taps you may hear in the far distance will soon clear way to clairvoyance, resounding the clarion call of faith, hope & love within your heart – G.B.U.
APPLICATION: For years I’ve been living out an “Open Heaven” life. One that has faith for what is unseen and lives Future-Present accordingly. I’ve had my share of Open and Closed Doors alike. Life is a grand adventure when those doors open, launching you into a brand new season. It feels like you are soaring in the clouds of a blessed life. Life is Good!
But what happens when you are silently discovered on the enemy’s radar? Unbeknownst to you, your coordinates are locked in and the order is given to fire at will with only one purpose in mind…to kill, steal and destroy.
Suddenly, a flak storm of anti-aircraft artillery hits sobering you out of the clouds, until the inevitable happens. With your flight systems screaming of imminent danger, flares streaming by your cockpit followed by explosions all around you… finally one munition finds its mark sending you spiraling down towards meeting your own shadow.
Ever been there? Living your best life only to find yourself hit by a horrible blow? In the confusion of it all, there comes a moment when you are faced with the reality that you are going down and have only one choice left. When those flame bursts blow the canopy, you’re violently greeted by gravity as you reach for your knees and finally do the unthinkable… pull the eject lever!
Most of us can recite the details that come next in each of our unique life stories. We may not be able to clearly define the weapon that hit us, but we can name the person or persons who pulled the trigger. In those weeks, months, years… we are faced with our own limitations and coping mechanisms for our survival. Soon enough, we find ourselves POW’s in the enemy’s camp. Isolated, confused, mistreated, malnourished and broken without much hope of breaking free.
Some have actually experienced the true horrors of being a Prisoner of War. Men like Louis Zamperini and retired Col. Carlyle Harris are mentors of mine. Louis Zamperini has taught me the importance of true grit and determination along with leading life with faith and forgiveness motivated by the Love of Jesus Christ.
Col. Harris has become a new mentor of mine since learning of his story in the book, TAP CODE. He is a former POW in Vietnam who is credited with introducing the Tap Code, which prisoners used to communicate with each other:
Today, I’m reminded of how present Jesus is wether we are soaring in the clouds of freedom or surviving the darkness of a prison cell. No height nor depth can separate us from the Love of Jesus. (Romans 8:38-39)
I’ve also learned through my own experiences that Jesus can cut through the darkest chapters of life in such a way that brings us to the other side of circumstances. Col. Harris spent almost 8 years, 2871 days as a POW… I don’t have any complaints any more! It can always be worse!
Jesus taught us how to Ask, Seek & Knock. His Love for us made the way for us to hear from Heaven at any given moment. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, death and darkness are defeated. The Holy Spirit is still speaking all around us pointing us to Jesus.
We may not understand the why’s for what happens in life this side of heaven. But what I do know from personal experience is that our best is yet to come. Like a good father, we have a Father in Heaven who loves to give good gifts to His kids. So why wouldn’t we ask, seek, knock? …Exactly!
Ask, it will be Given = it’s a Promise!
Seek, it will be Found = it’s a Promise!
Knock, it will be Opened = it’s a Promise!
I’ve heard the faint taps that cut through my silence years ago. Tap Code that came through was clear and personal. Jesus was with me and leading me to the other side of my darkest night. Day by Day… Faith, Hope and Love were restored. And with them, the ability to Ask, Seek & Knock for Heaven to redefine my circumstances. Against all odds, freedom followed as I followed Jesus!
Much has been Given, Found and Opened in my life. I have a few more promises that I’m Asking, Seeking and Knocking for. I know in God’s timing, those promises will happen. It’s a Promise!
In the meantime, I want to be the one who taps a message of hope for you. May this message heard from the walls of your circumstance soon bring clarity to the cacophony and confusion life has brought your way. Hold on! You are closer than you think you are. Only moments from the break of dawn. All His promises are just up ahead. Maybe you just haven’t seen it yet.
He is moving with a love so deep Hallelujah for the victory Good things are coming even when we can’t see We can’t see it yet, but we believe that He is moving with a love so deep Hallelujah for the victory Good things are coming even when we can’t see We can’t see it yet, but we believe that
I believe that our best is yet to come. Your best is yet to come.
PRAYER: Make it count Jesus. May my life story serve as a message to those who are needing to know that You are with them. They are not alone. Help me be the one that taps out G.B.U. when it’s needed the most.
SCRIPTURE: “Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new creation. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
OBSERVATION: Paul once again penned a letter of love and life-giving principles to live by, reflecting the person of Jesus and the hope of heaven. Our bodies are like tents that will be folded up when we die, only to be transformed into new creations that will withstand eternity. So, in light of eternity… what do we do with the groanings we endure this side of heaven?
Paul encouraged the people in Corinth to love Jesus and to love one another, embracing the fact that we are new creations this side of heaven. Why? Because we have the gift of the Holy Spirit within us that enables us to be and do what we could never dream of in our own strength. The key to unlocking this mystery is vulnerability and the power to turn the key is trust. Will we be a people who live by these keys? That is the question for me today…
APPLICATION: We are “Enfolded into Christ”… what does that mean? Well, I’ve been thinking about this principle for the past 9 months. Every time I sit down to write my thoughts, there is a hesitation. So, this morning I choose to push through that to see what awaits me on the other side.
–SURRENDER–
That word connotates weakness and defeat in western culture. Not so with Jesus.
If/when we choose to surrender our heart to God, there is an exchange that happens that is unseen yet felt nonetheless. Heaven redefines our surrender to Jesus as victory. When we raise our hands in surrender to Jesus in worship, Heaven sees this as an act of faith that cannot be ignored.
I’m a ‘Triple Dad’, a Father of 3 Amazing young adults. When they were little, and came running to me, sometimes crying with open arms… it didn’t matter what I was doing… They became my #1 focus. I dropped everything to kneel down, embrace them and simply love them through whatever was causing their pain.
I was with them in it and helped walk them through to the other side… sometimes carrying them to the other side. It’s what I did, and still do… in principle. “Kids” at 23, 21 & 17 rarely come running as they did @ 3. Now, Dinner Table Conversations, Phone Calls, Facetime chats and even Texts suffice. But once in a while, the tears still come… and I’m there with them, embracing them, loving them, honoring them. When my Kids choose to surrender their fears by letting me into their world… it creates an environment of authenticity that brings healing. What else can a Dad ask for?
-AUTHENTICITY-
I don’t see authenticity modeled very well in my life. Most people are closed off, critical of one another and simply calloused. I too had my season of shielding up to most people because of what was brought against me wave after wave after wave. But life is meant to be much more than survival. So, I chose to do the hard work… the heart work… in order to move on in freedom. I Surrendered to Jesus by choosing to be real with Him. I chose to be real with Him. I chose to open my heart to Him. I chose to be Authentic with Him.
This song has literally been playing for the past 9 months. In my car during my Seattle Commute, Quiet Times, in my Office, at Home and more. There is something to this song that hit a chord within my heart in such a deep place, that words have been difficult to find. If you’ve known me for any length of time, I have no problem with words 😉 And yet, this song?!
“I Let Out the Sails of My Heart” – What does this really mean?
In nautical terms, “Letting Out the Sails” means to depower the boat. As the wind/sail angle decreases, the sail loses power. In other words, letting out the sail is a way to slow down and even stop in the water… So why would this lyric be used? What about this hit me so deeply?
For me, it helped me define my choice to trust Jesus during my storm. The winds of life were torrential. And yet, I unmistakably heard Jesus’ invitation to Surrender my cares to Him in order for Him to lead me through the Process toward Victory. It was a choice. I made it in faith.
Ever been there? In the worst season of your life. Knuckles white from holding onto the ropes/reins of your life, only to be confronted with Heaven’s invitation to simply let go? This ain’t no Disney Princess movie singing “Let it Go” with Olaf cracking jokes in the background… Nope! This is hardcore hitting winds of life, with no way out. Life and Death decisions.
So when we realize that Jesus is in our boat, enduring the storm with us… and yet draws close to us, embraces us and whispers in our ear to simply trust Him by letting go. The Surrendering… Letting out the Sails… takes great Faith!
But when we do choose to trust Jesus, releasing the ropes from our blistered and tired hands… a valuable exchange occurs. The sails of our heart violently unwind from the pressing winds as we most assuredly anticipated. All momentum is lost, lurching the boat to the mercy of the waves in an uncontrolled state with rain, wind, thunder and lightning seeming laughing at our loss of control.
And then the fear and anger rises within our heart at the confusion of our current state. What are You doing Lord!… Why Jesus?!… I don’t understand?!… I trusted You?!
And there it is… Authenticity. We finally reveal our true heart. That is when Jesus can move us to the next level of the journey… Intimacy.
-INTIMACY-
I’ve learned in my life that nothing is really worth doing/having unless Jesus is with me. Even in the seasons of letting go. Letting Out the Sails of My Heart… feeling powerless… vulnerable… exposed… It’s worth it. Why?
Because it’s just the beginning of understanding how much Jesus truly loves me and is for me. When I choose to Let Out the Sails of My Heart, I choose to live authentically. Refusing to be a man with a closed off heart. Even if it scares the hell out of me. Literally. Fear is replaced by Faith. How?
In our state of pain and confusion, Jesus is with us, as He’s always been. Only now, we have invited Him into our situation asking, pleading and sometimes demanding that He do something. It’s in the storms of life when we discover that our paradigms of Jesus being distant and demanding are just simply… wrong!
As our boat flails about with the sail and ropes slapping against the mast and boom… Jesus stands and stills the storm. The wind and the waves obey Him. And I simply sit down in astonishment… “Who is this Jesus?!” echoes within my heart just as it did with the early Disciples:
“Then he turned to his disciples and said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Haven’t you learned to trust yet?”But they were overwhelmed with fear and awe and said to one another, “Who is this man who has such authority that even the wind and waves obey him?” (Mark 4:40-41)
Surrender leads to Authenticity, which leads to Intimacy… being known and valued for who you truly are. You see, it’s in these moments that Jesus’ authority manifests. Not in a way that intimidates nor belittles. Rather, in a way that reveals to us more of who we are.
Jesus is always faithful to lead us through to the other side of our storms. Sometimes He calms the storms completely. Sometimes He equips us to navigate through the raging storm. Regardless, He shows up! He is faithful to bring us to the other side. And in doing so, we are always changed because of His love for us and our personal experience… our testimony.
Many may not understand and even challenge our faith in God. And yet, we stand on our journey with Jesus and His word, experiencing His love for us. So much so, that we are changed forever. It’s who He is and what He does.
-LOVE-
Surrender leads to Authenticity, which leads to Intimacy, which leads to Love. I’m not one to write much about love. Love has been attacked in my life. I thought I knew what love was. But for the past 6 years, I’ve been on a journey discovering new depths of life.
Previously, I defined Love based on my experience with people. Family, Friends, Marriage and Fatherhood. Now… I look to Jesus. He has led me through a journey of letting go… Although lonely at times, this has been an important work for me. Learning to Love by Letting Go sounds like an oxymoron. And yet, I am proof that Jesus’ ways are not my ways. His wisdom supersedes mine and always leads me in truth and love.
As I continue to learn how to Let Out the Sails of My Heart, I’m learning more about myself and who Jesus is. And in that journey, I am learning how to better love others in my life. Encouraging them to live in Surrender, Authenticity, Intimacy and Love. For me, life is about Legacy. I want a life with purpose. I want to have a Song and a Story worth telling for generations.
-SONG & STORY-
Even though there are chapters I wish weren’t written, I’m proud of how they have been and are being redeemed. I now have a Song and a Story worth sharing. Jesus has turned my most devastating storms of life into what great stories are made of. He came to my rescue!
And now that I have gone through the transformation process of Letting Out the Sails of My Heart, I see myself in a new light. I now understand the hidden areas of my heart and how God created me to let those colors fly.
You see, even as a caterpillar has no idea of its future… neither do we! Most of us fight the process of metamorphosis and breaking out of our shell and letting out those sails. It’s dark, lonely, painful, confusing, vulnerable and more. And yet, SO WORTH IT! I want those wings! I want the beauty and life experiences they bring! How about you?
In all of this, it’s the miracle of what is happening after the storms that still surprises me. I was left with peace in the process of learning how to live in new levels of trust. Jesus began to be the source of my momentum instead of trying to rein the winds of life. I learned how to trust God’s leading instead of my own. He brought refreshing gentle winds that filled my entire heart. Not merely the small sliver of sail that I chose to expose. No. My entire heart was let out. He honored my journey and is now leading me to new destinations that I never would have experienced in my own strength. And… it’s just the beginning!
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You know the depths of my heart and our journey together. This journal only scratches the surface of what I’ve learned over the past 6 years. I thank You for the opportunity to choose You. Thank You for showing me how much You love me and are for me. Help me live my life in this new season in such a way that honors the heart You have given me. As I learn to let the sails fly, I ask that You continue to make it all count. I want Legacy. I want Love. I want all that You have for me and my family. Teach me how to help others learn how to Let Out the Sails of Their Heart!
–SAILS–
I spent so many years stuck in my head… Couldn’t see past myself. All the time you were right here in front of me. A part of me. Inside of me. And patiently You spoke to me. And You set me free. And so naturally, I’m living from my heart. This is just the beginning. This is just the beginning of a new way of living with You! I Let Out the Sails of My Heart. Here I am, here You are…
SCRIPTURE: “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
OBSERVATION: Rebellion and Redemption. That is what Zephaniah’s letter reads. Jerusalem is likened to wicked wolves who seek to devour the innocent from morning until night. Heaven watches, waits and warns. Giving every opportunity for hearts to turn, humble themselves and course correct.
How is Zephaniah’s letter reading you today?
APPLICATION: Last week, I took my Son & Daughter to the Elevation Worship Concert here in Seattle. It was a fun time hanging out together. I’ve been purposeful over years to book worship nights like this with my kids so we can share experiences together, giving us shared memories of when Heaven changes the atmosphere. Sometimes, bringing a personal message to our hearts. Priceless…
I’ve led my family to worship experiences like Kari Jobe, Bethel Music, Hillsong Worship and more. Elevation did not disappoint! Yes, it was a concert and they killed it as live performers. But it was much more than that. The presence of God was tangible. Hearts responded, including my own family.
As a Dad, I’ve led my kids through 22 years of following Jesus together.
I’m blessed with Three Arrows of Legacy in my quiver; 22, 20 & 16.
Life is Good! (Psalm 127:4)
And yet, this side of Heaven, life isn’t good all the time. Six years ago, began a new chapter of following Jesus Off the Map together in faith. Life had thrown us a Suddenly that changed everything… and yet, Jesus never changed. His heart for us and Heaven’s ability to reach down and bring beauty from ashes is showcased within my family. Grateful.
Out of all of these concerts, this last one was the most rewarding for me. Why? Well, even though I have kept a freedom within to worship freely in public settings.. my kids have not. They shut down pretty hard for a while. I don’t blame them.
So, during the concert I was lost in my own moment honoring my King for what He has done in and through my life up to this point… and to my surprise, when I opened my eyes, I saw what completely cracked my heart open on a different level.
My daughter was standing beside me with both hands raised, singing with all her heart, eyes wide open and tears streaming down both cheeks in a heart cry, declaring her absolute surrender and identity as a Daughter of the King of Kings… Jesus Christ.
This wasn’t a soft, weak nor meek stance. My daughter chose to make a stand as a young woman, who has been through more than most at her age, who trusts Jesus to make it all count for the Kingdom. My little girl, in a blink of an eye, had transformed into a formidable weapon of righteousness. I was awestruck by who my daughter has become.
She knows who she is. She is a Girl.An instrument of God’s Love and Purity. Jesus gave me this word for her before she was born. In fact, before the doctor told us she would be a girl, her Heavenly Father shared exactly who she was created to be. This is why I named her “Kaitlyn”… which means “Purity”. Have I mentioned how much I love my daughter? Hehe, just sayin’ 🙂
We never talked about that moment… don’t need to. I know exactly what was going on. Jesus was being honored. The Heavenly Father was declaring my daughter’s identity over her. And the Holy Spirit was confirming all of this by the manifest presence being experienced in that moment. She was simply responding to how good God is. Specifically to how good God has been writing her own life story.
My daughter has a song and a story!
So, this morning… sitting in yet another PNW coffee shop, I’m writing what’s on my heart and taking inventory from where I’ve come so I may stay the course for my future. Such gratefulness for how Jesus has led us through those Suddenlies to this side of the promise. But the journey is not over yet…
Many have come and gone in my life over the past 6 years because of my story and even those closest to me seem to not stay. Paths converge for a time, but when they hear chapters of my life story, most don’t know how to handle it and predictably make a course correction putting distance between us. Although sad to experience, I understand and don’t blame them. I still choose to run my race and follow Jesus Off the Map.
Although lonely at times, I take great comfort in my Three Arrows. They have been the focus and the fruit of my life’s work up to this moment. I have legacy! This morning, I… as my daughter before me, take great comfort in the Song and Story Heaven is singing over me.
There’s nowhere I’d rather be
When You’re singing over me
I just wanna be here with You
I’m lost in Your mystery
I’m found in Your love for me
I just wanna be here with You
Here in the waiting
I won’t worry about tomorrow
No need to focus
On the things I can’t control
All my attention
On the wonder of this moment
Jesus, Your presence
Is the comfort of my soul
PRAYER: I love you Jesus. Thank you for making it count. I believe the fruit of a man’s life will make a place for him. My kids’ lives echo who I am and whose I am! Grateful to be a son. Grateful to be loved by You. I trust You. And for what You have promised… I choose to let go and simply be with You. Nowhere I’d rather be.
SCRIPTURE: “Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling and Ahab rode off to Jezreel.The power of the Lord came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel. ” (1 Kings 18:45-46)
OBSERVATION: Elijah just went head-to-head with hundreds of false prophets and called down fire from heaven ending a 3 year drought and proving that God was real.
Then in faith, Elijah felt that breakthrough was coming.
Rain was coming! There wasn’t a cloud in the sky… or wait, wait a minute. News of a small cloud off in the distance… That was all Elijah needed. He declared Breakthrough is coming and sent the king out on his chariot to get ahead of the deluge.
And then the power of the Lord came on Elijah and he ran ahead of Ahab’s chariot all the way into Jezreel…
APPLICATION: Breakthrough is coming! This unction… feeling… stirring… has been felt within my own heart over the years. It never fails. Breakthrough always follows!
When I was younger and running Marathons & Ultra’s, I got used to the “Runner’s High” from endorphins. Oh it’s real! And pretty damn impressive when it kicks in. I’ve gone from flat out next to cramping, to running in the sixes with a big stupid grin on my face for miles and miles. So, yeah… my like it!
But what I like more, is the Presence of God, the Power of God!
Yesterday, I went out on another 30 mile bike ride since I’m on mission to lose weight and correct back to who I am. No, not who I was. Who I am. And who I am called to be. 120 miles in 2 weeks is a good way to kick off 2019 training for Seattle to Portland (STP). But it’s much more than that. You see, I know Breakthrough is Coming!
I was riding about 16 mph along the lake, just enjoying the sunshine, feeling free, with the wind in my face, heart pumping, blood flowing and bugs in my teeth from smiling so big. And then it happened. I felt God’s manifest presence hit. Not endorphins. I know the difference.
I started to laugh out loud and then a few happy tears came out of nowhere, along with shouts of praise. Out loud on the trail praising Jesus and shouting how good my God is, pedaling faster and faster… Oh by the way, I rode a 31 miler the day before. My legs were shot. But there I was, pumping out 20 mph like it was nothing… Breakthrough is coming!
I shouldn’t be so happy right now. Doors are closing and opening. Closing and Opening… I went first, out of an obedience check, to close a door of promise I thought was open. Then on the other hand, what I thought were closed doors of provision are now opening… and now shutting again. Or wait, what? Haha! 🙂 What the heck?! So confusing! Or is it?
What is going on?! I will tell you what is going on – Breakthrough is coming!
I’ve seen this happen before. And this time is no different. God is at work in places I cannot see, and quite frankly, don’t need to see. I feel it! I’ve done my work. I have released what was in my heart. My weapons of righteousness have been released. The rest is up to Jesus!
Faith, Hope and Love… are choices that I alone had to make over the years. Now, I will experience the fruit of all three. I know Breakthrough is Coming. Why? Because Jesus has promised me very specific things in my life. They haven’t happened yet. But what I do see now for the first time in a very long time, is that I am positioned for these promises! The best is yet to come!
I’ve followed Jesus into freedom and oh man does it feel so good! Haven’t been here in a very long time. And I know it will just keep getting better and better from here! I’ve given up needing to have answers. I don’t rely on logic nor what people consider as normal. I’m NOT Normal. Never wanted to be. But I am blessed nonetheless!
Obedience to get up and run (or bike in my case), pray for someone, open or shut a door, turn a key and walk into freedom… declares to the Kingdom, light and darkness, that I am a Child of God. I will follow through on doing what Jesus tells me to do. It may take a while to get there sometimes, but I’ll get there. And when Heaven sees a Son or Daughter simply trusting our Heavenly Father… Wow… Miracles happen!
So, most of my promises are long term horizon asks… I’ve endured my dry season. I have stood on my own Mt. Carmel and called down fire from heaven proving that God is real to my enemies. And now, like I’ve said before, it’s time!
Doesn’t make sense to me. But I am excited about life and what Jesus has in store for me and my family. I know Breakthrough is Coming! By faith, I see a miracle! My God made me a promise and He won’t stop now!
PRAYER: Jesus, I want to run again. I give You glory for all You’ve brought me through. And now I’m ready for whatever You want to do. I’m moving forward to follow after You. And now I’m ready for whatever You want to do.
SCRIPTURE: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
OBSERVATION: Paul, with the help of Timothy, wrote this letter to the Church in Corinth. People needed encouragement to see believers as Heaven sees them, forgiven and new creations in God’s image. You have to remember, these people knew one another… maybe too much! Generations living together under the same roof, gave no room for interpretation concerning people’s emotional ups and downs, strengths and weaknesses. No matter what a person’s story may have been, Jesus was and is faithful to make it count. Jesus makes all things new. So, just like the Corinthians… sometimes we need to be reminded of God’s love and how Heaven sees us as Sons and Daughters.
How are you doing on this one?
APPLICATION: Once in a while, I find a song that hits a chord within my heart and I play it over and over and over again. The song above, Into Faith I Go, is my new song. Pretty much sums up my life right now. I have so much to be grateful for. Earlier today I was waiting in line where many OCD Seattle Commuters find themselves on a Friday night… The Car Wash! Hey, don’t judge me! A good friend even blessed me with a car wash membership for my birthday… and it was Awesome! Get the picture? Yeah, I’m that guy! 😉
Anyway, as I was going through my weekend ritual, I had this song on repeat and was just thinking through how Jesus has led me to this point in my life. Looking over my shoulder, I too see how God’s goodness has been with me every step of my journey. Good thing the suds on my windshield covered my silent tears. I’ve worked hard over the years to have a heart that is yielded to the Holy Spirit. However, at the most inopportune times, God cracks open my heart on a new level. Jesus was doing some heart washing at the Car Wash today. Grateful.
Paul may have been one of the most misunderstood men within the early church. I mean, this man was a murderer of Christians for years until Jesus literally knocked him off of his horse and called him to a new life as an Apostle. He was even given a new name. Instead of Saul, he would be known as Paul. After 3 years of leveling up his life story and learning how Jesus fulfilled the Jewish law as the Messiah… people were still scared to death of Saul, I mean Paul. Just ask Ananais!
Paul lived what he was preaching. He was a new man. He had a new heart and identity because of his encounter with the Living God, Jesus of Nazareth. But it took time for people to really believe that Paul wasn’t Saul anymore.
Not only is it difficult to let someone’s past go, it’s even more difficult for some to let go of their own past.
I have had my own story of Jesus knocking me on my butt and confronting me when I was on the wrong path. That was 25 years ago! Wow… I’ve had other moments since then, but I’m so grateful for how God loves us as a good Father. He cared so much for me, that He stepped into my world and showed Himself to be real. Again, and again and again. Until, I not only gave my heart to Him… I gave my life to Him. Love loves me. Jesus loves me this I know.
I’m still walking out my salvation, following Jesus Off The Map. He is still writing my story. Life hasn’t gone the way I planned nor dreamed of… but it’s still good, because Jesus is good. He is faithful to make it all count. So, I find myself seeking His words over my life more than others. I value what my Heavenly Father says about me as His son. Since, just like Paul encountered, people have a hard time letting go of people’s past.
Sometimes, Fear’s definition over someone is easier to believe than Faith’s. That’s sad, but I get it. I have no control over that. The fruit of my life has and will make a way for me. My legacy is in the eyes of my kids. Their lives say who I am. I’m good with that. No, I am proud of that! I have legacy.
I’m confident that Jesus is leading me, my kids and some of my close friends through a season of Transformation. In fact, this may be a word for you too! I believe breakthrough is happening all over the globe right now in manifest ways. The inward work in the hearts of God’s people is beginning to surface. The work of Transformation is not comfortable and never convenient. And yet, these birth pangs of becoming a new creation is so worth it. We need to hold in through the Process to the Promise!
In October 2018, I went to Bethel for the Open Heavens Conference. I’ve written about some of the prophetic words spoken over me there. That was just the beginning! During the first night of worship, there were 3 stations of artists painting during worship. I kept looking over to one of them that caught my eye. I dismissed it at first, but couldn’t help but think about the resemblance with each stroke of the brush. Afterwards, I walked through the foyer to find these paintings on display and took this picture with my iphone to remember it by:
You see, a friend of mine had previously attended Bethel and received a prophetic word over her life. You guessed it, “Transformation“… What got me, is that this painting even resembles her! And the 6 doves easily represent the areas she is praying through in her private journey. I’ve submitted this to her and she agrees… there is something to this encounter. How awesome is that?!
But I think this goes far beyond one person.
I believe this is for the Bride of Christ, The Church…
I believe the Faith Journey of facing the Process of Transformation needs to be lifted up as a standard. We all are going through our own story as we become the Sons and Daughters Heaven is speaking over us. Sometimes, we need to be encouraged to remember who we are and call out the best in one another.
We are Sons & Daughters, Noble, Crowned and Robed in His Righteousness… It’s who we are!
Just like Paul, who had been blinded in his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus… we too can have scars like scales cover our eyes that hinder us from moving forward in our new name.
I believe this was part of Paul’s transformation. Jesus gave Saul a dream that a man named, you guessed it, Ananais… would come and lay hands on him to restore his sight. Jesus spoke to Ananais to get up, and go to Saul to fulfill this vision. Ananais’ faith to do this act of obedience was what immediately healed Paul of his blindness and brought him to his baptism as an outward sign of a born again believer!
I believe now more than ever we need God’s touch to complete our healing and transformation process. Could it be that Jesus is still giving His Sons and Daughters dreams and visions to pray for one another by name? The choice to get up and go, speaking God’s best over them, reminding them of who they are, proclaiming healing in Jesus’ name and more… is in fact the way God still loves people into His best.
So today, I choose to encourage others and myself by speaking from the camp of Faith instead of Fear. We are all on our own journey. Private as they may be… I want to be a man who is faithful to be a blessing to people. Blessing them instead of taking from them.
PRAYER: Make it count Jesus. I trust You. Into Faith I Go…
SCRIPTURE: “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” (Psalm 46:10)
OBSERVATION: Storms will come. Storms will go. And yet, Jesus is still God. And yet, Jesus is saying in 2019 as He did to Moses and many others, “Be still, and know that I am God!”… If we choose to trust Jesus, miracles will follow glorifying His name. It’s who He is. He will be honored. Are you facing storms? Choose to be still. Jesus is still God. His miracle is on the way… He will be honored!
APPLICATION: Being still isn’t the easiest thing in the world for me to do. I have been a man on the move for most of my life. However, recently, I’ve learned how to be still. The flip-side of that is an obedience check, knowing God is good on His word. He is still God. So, in my stillness, He is working. In the unseen, He is on the move. In the Kingdom, my King is coming to my rescue. Until patience converges with presence, manifesting God’s answer. He is faithful.
I’m experiencing this convergence in my life right now. Two very important prayers are being answered as I write these words and yet, one seems to be a closed door. No, it is a closed door. And the other, a surprisingly re-opening… What do you do with closed doors? I believe closed doors are effective tests that either usher us into new levels of faith and responsibility, or relegate us to repeating the same tests over and over again, until we past the test. Doors… who knew?
I’ve had closed doors open and open doors close in my life, leaving me feeling powerless and sometimes confused. What about the times, God prompts you to close a door you have no desire to close? That is a different test altogether. Faith is written on both sides of doors. Either for opening or shutting. The keys to our doors are found in God’s word. What is He speaking to you today? Are you opening or closing doors?
This week, I have had a closed door suddenly reopen for provision. And I believe Jesus asked me to trust Him in closing an open door of promise that I had absolutely no desire to close. And yet, I recognize Him in both. This is a new level for me.
I used to struggle greatly with the opening and closing in my life. I’ve learned not only to embrace change, but to trust Jesus in His leading. He is closer than a friend and more qualified than I’ll ever be in the wisdom category of life. I choose to trust Him. And yet, there are always emotions to check within the obedience check.
You ever struggle when doors shut before you? Yeah, me neither… 😉
So, I guess what I am getting at today is that I am getting better at being still before God and recognizing that He is still God.
Sometimes open doors are once in a lifetime.
I’ve learned to run through those before they close forever.
Sometimes open doors need to be shut to protect us.
I’ve learned to trust the warnings of the Holy Spirit.
Sometimes open doors need to be shut until we are ready to receive God’s best.
I’ve learned to trust God’s timing.
TIMING is everything.
That has been the hardest test of all for me until the past decade or so. In fact, I just received a text from a friend saying, “Wisdom and discernment are key giftings of yours. Also, knowing the times and seasons of your life. Like what needs to happen.” That blessed me!
Timing and Trust go hand in hand following Jesus. He is faithful to open doors no man can shut and close doors we weren’t meant to open. How are you doing on this one? Easier said than done. But if we trust Jesus in closing doors, He is faithful to bring His will and the Why’s behind His prompting. Sometimes right away, other times… far longer than we are comfortable with. Regardless, the test is in the trusting. If we are faithful to follow God’s word, He will be honored!
So, that is what I stand on today. I’ve been knocking on the doors of Provision, only to have 3 of them remain shut. I thought all 3 might open… nope. And then, out of no where, one of them flew open! There is my answer! Jesus hadn’t left me in the dark displeased from my misguided faith. In fact, He’s so pleased that I felt His voice to move forward that He did a very unique work that is obvious to many that I have favor. Not normal. But I’m grateful!! Now is the work of walking through to completion of what is opening before me. It’s time!
And then, simultaneously… I’m struggling with a door I was so happy to have open before me. Promise had come my way. And then, all of a sudden, it was closing before me. Not only that, I felt powerless watching it happen. And then overnight, I not only had a peace about it… I was certain that I needed to step up and help lead the closing. That sucked! What the heck?! Doesn’t make sense. Or does it?
This is my point. It makes perfect sense when you understand God’s motives behind the ask. You see, I’ve finally come to the place in my life where I truly believe Jesus is for me no matter what. If He wants this door of promise to close now, I will partner with him. I trust Jesus… period. He has our best in mind. If a door needs to be shut, it’s either because what is on the other side isn’t for us. Or it isn’t for us yet. Regardless, Jesus can be trusted.
Again, what I am getting at today is that I am getting better at being still before God and recognizing that He is still God.
I choose to Pass this Test!
I have Favor with the Open Door of Provision!
I have Peace with the Closed Door of Promise… God is honored!
PRAYER: Jesus, You are wonderful. You love us more than we will ever know. Thank You for leading the way this side of Heaven. I have so much to learn. But I thank You for this week. Even though emotions were all over the place and still settling from the suddenlies… You are still God. I choose to be still before You today. My help will come from You. I pray that The Door Test would yield miracle moments that would be written in such a way that people will be encouraged and You would be honored. I’m learning that the same is true for me, that no man can shut a door that You open. May You continue to mentor me in this new Open Heaven calling. I choose to be still and remember, You are Still God.
SCRIPTURE: “Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation.” (Matthew 7:24)
OBSERVATION: Jesus was teaching the crowd that had gathered around Him about many things. From praying, fasting and giving to warning about judging, worrying and being flat out fake. Jesus had a way of sifting the principles of life down to a relationship. First with Him and then others. Only what we build on the love of Jesus will count in Heaven. The question is, what are we building on?
APPLICATION: Life will definitely test us. All we have and are will be shaken at times. When the shaking comes, what will remain? After the Richtor scale subsides, the dust clears, and the sirens are screaming in the background… you may be surprised to see what survived. It’s often not what you expected.
I believe we have all had similar experiences to one degree or another. For me, the life principle that has moved the Richtor scale within my heart today is how to build on an unshakable foundation. Jesus spells it out clearly for us:
Hear Jesus’ teaching
Apply it to your life
Seems pretty simple right? I mean, even Sunday School kids can sing the song. But how many of us actually live like this? I for one, have had my world shaken from the storms of life. Those storms were real and life changing. And yet, what they did was give Jesus an opportunity to be trusted at His word. With nothing more than promises, I was left with the choice to trust Jesus at His word, or base my worth on the rubble all around me. I chose to put my trust in Jesus. The chorus of this song pretty much sums up my heart cry:
And I will build my life upon your love it is a firm foundation And I will put my trust in you alone and I will not be shaken
Walking out the past 6 years has been a journey to say the least. But one I am so proud of. Jesus is making it all count. It took a while to truly value my firm foundation. At 40 years old, it seemed as though all was lost. Much of what I had put my hands to was lost. And yet, Jesus helped me understand what was of greater value. He helped me see that Love was the foundation that wasn’t shaken. He wasn’t shaken. And the subsurface work that no one else could see was intact, complete, strong, immovable. It was up to me to redefine my life based on Jesus’ word or my unfortunate circumstances. I chose and still choose Jesus. He is my Rock. My Salvation.
So now, 6 years later, I’m so incredibly grateful for what I am beginning to see rise all around me. Jesus has begun to build my life in such a way as to make the first 40 years count. Only the Living God can do that!
I even had two Leaders stop me while I was at Bethel Church for a conference and ask me if they could pray and prophesy over me. I was the village idiot who just kept walking and thought they were talking to someone else. I’m no one. Not important. They finally stopped me and asked again. After looking behind me and then sheepishly confessing my ignorance, of course I accepted! I even recorded it.
They were both very polite and extremely accurate in what they had to share with me. Enough so, that they both shared that they saw a structure being built. A skyscraper, reaching up to heaven with a firm foundation and cranes all around. It had mostly been built up to the point of beginning to create the exterior. What they saw was an extremely deep foundation with the first 40 floors completed. People were living in those floors already, while the rest of the building was unfinished, still in process with beams and unfinished floors reaching up to the heavens.
I couldn’t believe the accuracy of what they were saying?! This was a glimpse into my life up to that moment! And then they continued…
The woman was hesitant to share what she saw next. Finally sharing that she saw, “Pigeons”… “Lots of Pigeons”… “And you know what they do?…” We both started laughing and she said, “Messes! They make lots of messes!” hahaha 😉 I’ve never had anyone pray/prophesy over me that my life would be crappy, but there you have it boys and girls! It happened to me, and it was 100% accurate. My life sucked for a while with people who decided to be enemies of mine for simply being a faithful man.
But then the woman got very serious and changed her countenance and shared how the Lord is going to now begin to complete the exterior of the building and the messes from the pigeons won’t ever be remembered! Wow!! The next 40 years will be seen by many. Many will take refuge in what the Lord builds upon my first 40 years. Nothing will shake it. I am on time and I have legacy…
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing! Other details were shared, but oh my gosh?! Amazing… Matthew 7:24 reminded me of this experience and how my choices have led me to a place of visible progress. Now new life chapters are being written, God is being glorified and my story is being redeemed. The next 40 years will be built upon my firm foundation, Jesus.
“Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation.” (Matthew 7:24)
Want to be compared to a wise man? Then go beyond hearing about Jesus. Love Him. Live for Him. Put Him first. Even in the loss… trust Jesus at His word. He is faithful to complete the work He started in you. I have faith for that. Do you?
PRAYER: Jesus, I am now in a brand new place of expectation. I choose to put You first. Even in letting go of what I thought you had blessed me with. If I’m honest with myself, everything and everyone in my life is from You. I give it all back to You. I thank You for building my life upon Your love. It is a firm foundation. I will put my trust in You alone and I will not be shaken. So continue to lead me into Your very best. Thank you for building my life in such a way that You will get glory. I thank You for those in my life, near and far, who have and are building with me. I have legacy thanks to who You are. I’m excited to see how I get to partner with you in the next 40 years. Make it count Jesus. Make it count!
SCRIPTURE: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)
OBSERVATION: Paul penned many letters in the New Testament encouraging the people of The Way, or The Church, to follow Jesus with all their heart. Life was difficult, as it sometimes is today. And yet in the middle of the struggle is life’s most precious purpose. People.
Jesus lived, died and rose again for People. For you and for me. Even carrying the cross after unspeakable torture, Jesus kept getting back up again and again until he arrived at His finish line on the unforgiving grounds of Golgotha. Jesus finished well with us in mind. Love is what motivated His story. Love is what made History.
Paul’s words echo as relevant today as it did over 2,000 years ago. We must choose to make a stand when Fear rises. Paul chose to Get Up!… Over and over and over and over again, suffering more than most, and yet loving more than most. Why? He knew the depths of God’s love towards him. A murderer of Christians once named Saul, now named by Jesus as Paul, an Apostle of The Church! Only God’s love can change a life like that.
APPLICATION: But there are moments when we can’t Get Up on our own. Even along with way to Golgotha when Jesus’ body was bleeding out and spent, He became too weak to carry the cross in His own strength. The Romans made a bystander named, Simon of Cryrene step in and carry Jesus’ cross… Even Love needed help to get to His destination.
Each of us have unique challenges to overcome this side of heaven. I believe that God doesn’t orchestrate most of the storms in our life, but He is faithful to lead us through to the other side if we invite Him in. This week, I’ve been taking inventory of my life story. Scars and all. And you know what? The verdict still stands true. I have a Song and a Story. My life is Good. I am proud of the man I’ve become and the scars I still bear from my journey.
Why? Because they remind me of what Jesus went through for me. He gave it all out of His love for me when I had nothing to offer. Not even my life. And yet, now… I am in relationship with Jesus. He’s my Savior, King and Friend. We have a few things in common that many won’t ever experience. I used to hate parts of my past, until Jesus helped me to Get Up again and again and again. Over and over and over and over… it was Jesus who called me to my feet out of Love. He reminded me of who He is and what motivates Him. Jesus is love. He gave it all for People. For you. For me.
So, I’m not responsible for most of what I’ve had to go through in my past, and yet I stand tall knowing that I’ve been obedient to follow my King through to the other side. And Yes, Jesus has had to step in and carry me at times. My cross has been carried by Jesus once and for all. And yet, He’s quick to carry me! I used to fight that. Not any more. I welcome God’s presence, patience and power in my life.
I was thinking through people who have been in my corner in those seasons when I was down. They are few, but never forgotten. Family, Friends and Loved Ones. To this day, I still hear their voices echo in my mind when Jesus walks me through the Hallways of my Heart. Photos of those life events are now redefined to reflect what Heaven rejoices. It’s not the struggle that defines us. It’s how we choose to walk through them to the other side with Jesus that counts.
I know it’s old school… I guess I’m becoming more old school than I care to admit. But this clip from Rocky comes to mind of such an example of unconventional love and the power that people can have in and through our life story. It all comes down to love. The choice before us is what will we do when we are knocked down? Will we be given to Fight or Flight?
My choice is to Get Up! Again and again and again… Over and over and over.
PRAYER: Jesus, my life has been unconventional at best. I’m not normal. I don’t want normal. But I can say that I’ve been loved by those closest to me. I don’t have a story of fuzzy bunnies and rainbows… but I have a story of standing for and with Love. I have Legacy. I’m so grateful for You Jesus and how You’ve led me to this place of blessing. Thank you for the people that helped me Get Up and get here. You were The Angel in them Jesus… Love You too.
OFF THE MAP 