Big Plans

Posted on March 21, 2019 by Mark Shields

The greatest factor for Paul that governed his conduct as explained in 2 Corinthians 1:12-23 was to follow the Lord. He had to change a few plans but human plans in life are just that … a plan. On the other hand, the plans God has for all of us are bigger. They are plans set in stone, solid as a rock, and plans that assure victory.

We may worry about things because as we get older, we take on responsibilities and things we do today may not create known problems until years in the future. But one thing is for sure and creates true joy for the future; by accepting Christ as Savior, things only get better. The negative past is washed away, the joy of the present is highlighted, and the future is brighter each and every day.

Today, we can learn from the past but cast our worries aside. We can find joy in the present and look forward to a bright future forever free of what holds us back. As we relate to others, we can be optimistic because by the grace of God. We are allowed to stand firm in Christ and possess the Spirit in our heart.

This day with You Lord, we worship Your holy name. We look up at the sky and see more stars than we can count. You can bless us with more joys than stars. Even in difficulty, we can smile because Your plans for the future are bigger than our difficulty and You will provide what is needed or friends to help. We can only imagine what is in store for the future. Amen.

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Comforted

Posted on March 20, 2019 by Mark Shields

The Lord has comforted His people, and will have mercy on His afflicted. – Isaiah 49:13 

Even if having a tough day, you can go to the Lord in prayer for comfort. You can start fresh with a new perspective because the love of Jesus restores so you can go from a place of brokenness to a place in life with laughter, joy, and peace as pointed out in the post “Desolation to Restoration”.

In difficulty, you can have confidence in God to lend a hand. As in the song Lift Me Up by The Afters, you may fall down in life but God’s love will lift you up. There may be mistakes made along the journey but God’s love will bring comfort and set you back on the right path for an improved future. 
 

 

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Desolation to Restoration

Posted on March 19, 2019 by Mark Shields

Reading in 2 Corinthians 1:1-11, Paul and Timothy are writing to the church at Corinth about God giving comfort during trials of life. Ever since original sin going back to the time of Adam and Eve, the human race has endured difficulty but because of Christ we can go from desolation to restoration.

When faced with difficulty or stress, we can go to the Lord in prayer and ask to be lifted up. God will provide the resources needed to get through anything. One resource given is scripture when poise is needed during stressful situations like talking in front of an audience, taking an exam or going through a medical procedure.

Prayer and memorized scripture give us confidence that God is actively involved in our life and circumstances. We must accept the fact that we live in a broken world and there are just so many circumstances outside our control but our confidence in God will affect our attitude today. He’s big enough to make sure the unpleasant things going on right now in our life will be worked out.

This day with You Lord, we have confidence that You will get us through anything. Just as history teaches about Jerusalem in ruins and in need of restoration, our lives can need restoration. We are thankful that Jesus restores us so we can go from a place of brokenness to a place in life full of laughter, joy, and peace. On top of that Lord, our experiences can help us comfort others who go through similar struggles. We ask for opportunities to comfort others today. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

 

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Desolation to Restoration

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Mark Shields

If facing difficulty, have confidence that God will lend a hand today. You may fall down in life but God’s love will lift you up. There may be mistakes made along the journey but God’s love will bring comfort and set you back on the right path for an improved future.

Mark Shields's avatarStep Ahead

Facing difficulty
In a desolate place
But you can meet
It face to face.

From desolation
With so much strife
To a place of joy
And peace in life.

There may be mistakes
Along the journey
But God’s love has
Provided the attorney.

To lift you up,
Carry on His back
Along the right path
And always on track.

Just pray with confidence,
Use scripture to guide;
For the future is bright
When faith is applied.

Poem by Mark Shields – © 03-07-2019

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The Plan Gives Integrity

Posted on March 14, 2019 by Mark Shields

Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. – Psalm 41:12 

The post “Lining Up with the Plan” had some thoughts about the importance of following God’s plan.  We can accept God’s plan for us through His Son which gives us integrity. To do things right, we must set up a good foundation. Living the way Jesus teaches is like building that foundation and building upon that foundation leads to something meaningful and makes an impact.

David faced deceit, gossip, and betrayal and we too can face these same issues. Just remember that God is in control and will not allow your enemies to take advantage of you. Continue to pray and maintain your integrity.  Be honest with yourself and have the attitude of wanting to know where you fall short and what you need to do. Here is a short poem inspired by the song If We’re Honest by Francesca Battistelli:

Let His love heal
The hurts that divide
For mercy is waiting
On the other side
So be honest and set free
And not at a loss
By laying your secrets down
At the foot of the cross. 
 

 

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