"Offer your shoulders for the load." – Hmmm, yes. Makes me squirm a bit – in a good, reflective way today, friend.
This blessed me.
And isn't it amazing how the Lord can speak right into us – on walks and runs and movement?
Blessings, Kate 🙂
Just visiting and "sampling." I read your bio and the post you did about Ruby Tuesdays. In my opinion, it was excellent. Beautifully, thoughtfully put together. I'll visit again sometime. Keep up your good work. I'll also be praying for your family and your ministry. ~donkimrey
And I love traveling the road with you too Elaine! This was such a pleasure today to just sit here at my computer and "visit" with you! I felt as though only a table and perhaps a cup of coffee or tea was all that might be between us! I have missed your vlogs! Am very interested in the Bible study you were doing by Jim Cymbala. I loved his book about the beginning of his ministry at Brooklyn Tabernacle called "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire" I think. VERY inspiring!
I feel so blessed with your Christian friendship my friend! You looked so vibrant and healthy out in that sunshine today!
May God continue to bless you with hope and healing!
Love you my friend!
Marilyn
Thanks, Don. Always good to hear from you.
Outside is where I hear Him most clearly. Today was no exception, Kate. Thanks for taking the time to be here.
We'll have that coffee one day, Marilyn. The study is called "When God's Spirit Moves"; there is a dvd to go with, but all of those video can be viewed on youtube. Just goggle his name and the study's name and you can easily find it. I really, really loved it, and it's very easy to facilitate. I'm getting ready to do his next one with 5 women, "When God's People Pray".
Oh precious friend, so much has touched my heart deeply. Thank you for the promise that "the third year is coming". For me in the "first" year still, a third year wait for abundance seems long, yet in those first two years God's provision is there…a miraculous supply really, without the land being farmed. He continues to "feed" us, even when our strength is weak. He sustains us with Himself. I'm wondering if the "meal" will be long remembered as some of the choicest, because each "bite" will have been savored, knowing it's value and cost.
I am in and out of the blog world for a period, but I am still reading new blogs as I can.
Can I just affirm to you today… not only is your third year' coming,I believe it is going to be amazing what God does! I have lived enough years to understand that the heart of what you are speaking does not come lightly or with ease. You have been IN the pressure cooker, and survived, and not only that… you are sharing such a vital and necessary hope with so many through that Godly gift of your voice and pen.
I for one, can simply hardly wait to see what is ahead in your journey. My own heart is cheering you on like crazy! Keep those tennis shoes handy… the very best is coming my friend! :")
You bless me as always, Sonja! Any baby news yet? I've missed your posts, but I understand. Thank you for standing with me and seeing me through these very difficult days. I appreciate you more than you know.
Yes, friend, the value and the cost… we will long savor the feast. Thanks for shouldering the load with me. You are a valiant sister-survivor. Our best days are ahead of us. Love you muchly.
Looks like a beautiful day in your neighborhood, my friend. I always love hearing your voice, watching the expression on your face as you share about the ways God speaks to you. THAT inspires me, Faith Elaine. Love you, lady.
I have no doubt that I was to turn my computer on this afternoon and hear these words from you. REALLY hear them. I have been reading the series of books by Lynn Austin that tells the story of some of the kings of Judah. King Hezekiah's story was told in great detail and this prayer was written word for word from the sciptures. It has all had a profound effect on me, and your further insight into this sripture is even more food for thought. I am still struggling with health issues and this has been a difficult couple of months for me. Still not sure what the problem is and I will admit to you that I had a BAD day today with my thoughts and fears etc. All of which I know are not from Him, and will accomplish nothing for me either. I heard God's voice tell me my eyes are off of Him, and back on my problems and I need to get them back on Him. I need to trust Him…..whatever my circumstances may be. The faith of Hezekiah was sooo inspiring to me. Isaiah's words from God were so comforting and direct and I can only imagine what it would have been like to hear them. Is this a message for me too? I don't know, but I would love to think so. Coming on here and hearing your thoughts on this seem like a confirmation. Either way your right. We must journey on. His strength is more than adequate, and mine is spent. I thank you soo much for your words today. They have soo blessed me. HUGS
I so love to listen to you! "The cupboards are pretty bare…." yes, I guess that's a good way to describe how I've been feeling….you have a way of putting things into words…things I haven't even realized I'm feeling. Maybe because our lives are in transition, I feel a little 'stuck'…I guess I'm waiting for that third year. Thanks again for always being such an encouragement. I know you'll be such a help to the group you've been asked to speak to. Have a wonderful week!
Elaine, so good to both see and hear you tonight. One day I'm hoping we get to do that without a computer screen between us, but sure am thankful for the opportunities we DO have to connect. Such a message of hope. So thankful for the periods of fruitfulness and harvest that await us. Blessings this week, friend!
Take root below and bear fruit above….these last few years have been difficult ones. So many losses and I have found myself feeling dry and withered…voiceless. I have felt more like overused soil that bears minimal, sporadic fruit. Seeking that third year…seeking to regain deep roots…begging for new life and a new harvest.
Elaine, I so enjoy hearing you speak God's grace and mercy into our lives. You carry the Truth to weary ones, like me. Thank you.
I loved seeing you, and hearing you on the video sis. You are such a sweet blessing to my heart. Let's journey on together, love you sis.
I need this kind of encouragement. This has been a hard time for me the last couple of months.
Blessings to you Elaine, I am grateful to God for you,
katiegfromtennessee
wifeforthejourney:
This was a great way for me to start my morning; been a while since you've posted a video.
How the text from Isaiah resonates with me today. Life has been hard for us in this now almost two year season of family life and ministry life. I see the parallels in God's promises to Hezekiah and our own hopes for the future. I want so much to believe, for my own life, that God is at work beneath the surface of my own skin to "take root" a remnant of faith that will "bear fruit above" in a way that is a blessing for me, for us, and for our life here. The promise of the third year is one I will hold close, whether a literal third year or just the hope that comes in holding on and holding out a little longer.
I'm excited to see what the Lord will bring out in your own life. Every day with you brings me closer to God…..sorry I don't say so often enough. You are God's best for me, and I'm praying for you and for the fruits that are to come!
Love, Billy
It is because I, too, am weary. I only have one place to run… only one answer to give. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Where would we be without Jesus?
You are not alone, Katie. Many of us are struggling and holding on for that 3rd year. Keep sowing seed into your heart. Very soon, you'll be sowing seed as well and seeing a harvest. I pray that for all of us today.
Yes, indeed, sweet friend. Keep pressing on and into Jesus. The best is yet to be!
Without the Internet, I wouldn't have such strong connections with wonderful Christians across the world. This is a good place to gather hearts in one accord. Have a great day, Cheryl.
I hear you! It seems as if I'm in a perpetual place of "stuck"… crying out to God for newness of life and for faith and wisdom enough to walk that newness. Praying the same for you.
This has been happening to me a lot lately, Debbie. Hearing a specific "word" from God in one place and having it confirmed in another. Best to pay attention to those nudges and receive them as God's voice. Keep digging into his Word and allowing him to minister to you. His peace is our promised portion… not as the world gives, but as only he can give. Amen!
Elaine, this post touched my heart so much. I too have had a rough two years – the passing of my father and then the suicide of my brother less than a year later. At times, I have felt as if I have been putting on the "strong faith" face for people because I didn't want them to know what was really going on in my life, my heart, my soul. I have really been tested during this last two years. My faith has really been tested, and I have to admit it has been weak at times, even to the point of asking myself if I had any faith left at all, or if I even believed in anything anymore!
I am struggling friend. Struggling with decisions about my employment (not sure if this is where God needs me to be anymore), the church I am attending (really questioning that one!), if I am being effective in my ministry as a youth leader anymore, etc. Some days it really is a struggle to get out of bed. I am more than positive that you can relate! Thanks for sharing the story in 2 Kings:19. I have read it over and over, and I will be praying for that 3rd year my friend! I know God is faithful. I know He always knows what is best for us. And I do trust in His timing, His ways, and His love for me. Thanks my friend!
Love ya!
Love you too!
You know what, friend? I heard it in your fb message yesterday. Something in my heart resonated with the hurt in your heart. I got it. I get it. You are not alone. Many of us have finally reached the age where pain is our portion, more often than not. Everybody's got "something". I prayed for you last night and will continue to lift you up as you seek God with all your heart. This isn't the time to let up in your fight of faith! Contend for it; wrestle it out; do so before the Father with your Bible open in your lap and don't let go until faith settles firmly in your heart. I cannot make sense of all of this cloudiness. These are, indeed, strange waters were swimming in. But we are anchored in truth… at the end of the day, always anchored in truth. Stay there. Don't leave. The shoreline is closer now than it has ever been. You are not alone; I'm swimming these same waters. You have my prayers and love.
Elaine, that was such a breath of fresh aire! Give my love to your kitty too!
I'm still here, Elaine! I sometimes feel that I'm limping along (physically and spiritually), but I'm so glad to share the same journey with you.
Your video really resonated with me. It's tough going through the difficult times in our lives. I'll admit…I get so frustrated and tired at times that I just want to give up. But, that's exactly what the enemy wants us to do, isn't it? When I remember that, I realize that giving up can never be an option. (Can I just say, though, that I'm SO READY for that third year? It can't get here soon enough for me!)
Keeping to it…with Jesus and with you. Thanks so much for challenging me, encouraging me, and praying for me. You are a true friend.
Love you P.S. Seeing your sweet face and hearing your voice makes me miss you even more! P.P.S. I always enjoy reading Billy's comments to you. That's a wonderful hubby you have!
Thank you for being here today, Valarie. And thanks for sharing the word of encouragement with Angelique. I really appreciate your letting me know. Blessings, sister.
I hear you, sister. We've got to get together sometime this year… maybe in the fall! Let's talk soon.
FYI, Valarie, I stopped by your blog but couldn't find a way to leave a comment. This is probably intentional on your part, and that's fine. I just wanted you to know.
You are a blessing.
You didn't intend it, but your words are God's birthday message to me today, on this my 59th birthday. Never did I see these words in the same light that you shed on them today!
Sow and reap on the third year…
A remnant… a band of survivors…
The zeal of the Lord will do this.
What better companion can we have for our journey than the zeal of the Lord?
You and I have been fellow pilgrims down this road…
And yes, I must say that I am willing to offer my shoulders to carry my share of the load. Harvest is coming, the famine is about to end… what a glorious message of hope, dear Faith Elaine.
Much love Lidia
Oh this just blesses me, Lidia! Happy birthday friend. I'm so glad you're in my life.
Christ in me… that's the only explanation I can offer for being a blessing to anyone. You humble me, sister.
Beautiful post, Elaine. The famine is indeed almost over, and we WILL be restored and take root–in Christ. In Jesus. It's in Him that every precious promise comes to pass, for those promises are all Yes and Amen. And in the meantime, there is divine provision, and the hope of the 3rd day.
Hugs to you, sweet Elaine.
Hi Elaine: So glad to get to see and hear you. As always I leave your blog encouraged and with food to chew on.
Blessings, Marita
It's always a joy to join you, Elaine. Forgive my absense. I'm on my third week with bronchitis complicated by asthma and type 1 diabetes, so I haven't been online much. But as always, I found encouragement in your wise words. Waiting is hard. I'm missisng Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, but I'm trusting the Lord has a plan for my novels, and I'm looking on the horizon to see His hand. Love ~ Danie
Elaine, such a needed word I re-posted it at The White Stone. Thank you. You are light in Blogland!!
Just beautiful.
"Offer your shoulders for the load." – Hmmm, yes. Makes me squirm a bit – in a good, reflective way today, friend.
This blessed me.
And isn't it amazing how the Lord can speak right into us – on walks and runs and movement?
Blessings,
Kate 🙂
Just visiting and "sampling." I read your bio and the post you did about Ruby Tuesdays. In my opinion, it was excellent. Beautifully, thoughtfully put together. I'll visit again sometime. Keep up your good work. I'll also be praying for your family and your ministry. ~donkimrey
And I love traveling the road with you too Elaine! This was such a pleasure today to just sit here at my computer and "visit" with you! I felt as though only a table and perhaps a cup of coffee or tea was all that might be between us! I have missed your vlogs! Am very interested in the Bible study you were doing by Jim Cymbala. I loved his book about the beginning of his ministry at Brooklyn Tabernacle called "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire" I think. VERY inspiring!
I feel so blessed with your Christian friendship my friend! You looked so vibrant and healthy out in that sunshine today!
May God continue to bless you with hope and healing!
Love you my friend!
Marilyn
Thanks, Don. Always good to hear from you.
Outside is where I hear Him most clearly. Today was no exception, Kate. Thanks for taking the time to be here.
We'll have that coffee one day, Marilyn. The study is called "When God's Spirit Moves"; there is a dvd to go with, but all of those video can be viewed on youtube. Just goggle his name and the study's name and you can easily find it. I really, really loved it, and it's very easy to facilitate. I'm getting ready to do his next one with 5 women, "When God's People Pray".
Oh precious friend, so much has touched my heart deeply. Thank you for the promise that "the third year is coming". For me in the "first" year still, a third year wait for abundance seems long, yet in those first two years God's provision is there…a miraculous supply really, without the land being farmed. He continues to "feed" us, even when our strength is weak. He sustains us with Himself. I'm wondering if the "meal" will be long remembered as some of the choicest, because each "bite" will have been savored, knowing it's value and cost.
Your message also made me think of Twila Paris's song: "Band of Survivors" http://www.christianfeeds.info/33719/band-of-survivors.html
Standing with the band of survivors,
Joy
I am in and out of the blog world for a period, but I am still reading new blogs as I can.
Can I just affirm to you today… not only is your third year' coming,I believe it is going to be amazing what God does! I have lived enough years to understand that the heart of what you are speaking does not come lightly or with ease. You have been IN the pressure cooker, and survived, and not only that… you are sharing such a vital and necessary hope with so many through that Godly gift of your voice and pen.
I for one, can simply hardly wait to see what is ahead in your journey. My own heart is cheering you on like crazy! Keep those tennis shoes handy… the very best is coming my friend! :")
You bless me as always, Sonja! Any baby news yet? I've missed your posts, but I understand. Thank you for standing with me and seeing me through these very difficult days. I appreciate you more than you know.
Yes, friend, the value and the cost… we will long savor the feast. Thanks for shouldering the load with me. You are a valiant sister-survivor. Our best days are ahead of us. Love you muchly.
Looks like a beautiful day in your neighborhood, my friend. I always love hearing your voice, watching the expression on your face as you share about the ways God speaks to you. THAT inspires me, Faith Elaine. Love you, lady.
I have no doubt that I was to turn my computer on this afternoon and hear these words from you. REALLY hear them. I have been reading the series of books by Lynn Austin that tells the story of some of the kings of Judah. King Hezekiah's story was told in great detail and this prayer was written word for word from the sciptures. It has all had a profound effect on me, and your further insight into this sripture is even more food for thought. I am still struggling with health issues and this has been a difficult couple of months for me. Still not sure what the problem is and I will admit to you that I had a BAD day today with my thoughts and fears etc. All of which I know are not from Him, and will accomplish nothing for me either. I heard God's voice tell me my eyes are off of Him, and back on my problems and I need to get them back on Him. I need to trust Him…..whatever my circumstances may be. The faith of Hezekiah was sooo inspiring to me. Isaiah's words from God were so comforting and direct and I can only imagine what it would have been like to hear them. Is this a message for me too? I don't know, but I would love to think so. Coming on here and hearing your thoughts on this seem like a confirmation. Either way your right. We must journey on. His strength is more than adequate, and mine is spent. I thank you soo much for your words today. They have soo blessed me. HUGS
I so love to listen to you! "The cupboards are pretty bare…." yes, I guess that's a good way to describe how I've been feeling….you have a way of putting things into words…things I haven't even realized I'm feeling. Maybe because our lives are in transition, I feel a little 'stuck'…I guess I'm waiting for that third year. Thanks again for always being such an encouragement. I know you'll be such a help to the group you've been asked to speak to. Have a wonderful week!
Elaine, so good to both see and hear you tonight. One day I'm hoping we get to do that without a computer screen between us, but sure am thankful for the opportunities we DO have to connect. Such a message of hope. So thankful for the periods of fruitfulness and harvest that await us. Blessings this week, friend!
Take root below and bear fruit above….these last few years have been difficult ones. So many losses and I have found myself feeling dry and withered…voiceless. I have felt more like overused soil that bears minimal, sporadic fruit. Seeking that third year…seeking to regain deep roots…begging for new life and a new harvest.
Elaine, I so enjoy hearing you speak God's grace and mercy into our lives. You carry the Truth to weary ones, like me. Thank you.
I loved seeing you, and hearing you on the video sis. You are such a sweet blessing to my heart. Let's journey on together, love you sis.
I need this kind of encouragement. This has been a hard time for me the last couple of months.
Blessings to you Elaine, I am grateful to God for you,
katiegfromtennessee
wifeforthejourney:
This was a great way for me to start my morning; been a while since you've posted a video.
How the text from Isaiah resonates with me today. Life has been hard for us in this now almost two year season of family life and ministry life. I see the parallels in God's promises to Hezekiah and our own hopes for the future. I want so much to believe, for my own life, that God is at work beneath the surface of my own skin to "take root" a remnant of faith that will "bear fruit above" in a way that is a blessing for me, for us, and for our life here. The promise of the third year is one I will hold close, whether a literal third year or just the hope that comes in holding on and holding out a little longer.
I'm excited to see what the Lord will bring out in your own life. Every day with you brings me closer to God…..sorry I don't say so often enough. You are God's best for me, and I'm praying for you and for the fruits that are to come!
Love,
Billy
It is because I, too, am weary. I only have one place to run… only one answer to give. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Where would we be without Jesus?
You are not alone, Katie. Many of us are struggling and holding on for that 3rd year. Keep sowing seed into your heart. Very soon, you'll be sowing seed as well and seeing a harvest. I pray that for all of us today.
Yes, indeed, sweet friend. Keep pressing on and into Jesus. The best is yet to be!
Without the Internet, I wouldn't have such strong connections with wonderful Christians across the world. This is a good place to gather hearts in one accord. Have a great day, Cheryl.
I hear you! It seems as if I'm in a perpetual place of "stuck"… crying out to God for newness of life and for faith and wisdom enough to walk that newness. Praying the same for you.
This has been happening to me a lot lately, Debbie. Hearing a specific "word" from God in one place and having it confirmed in another. Best to pay attention to those nudges and receive them as God's voice. Keep digging into his Word and allowing him to minister to you. His peace is our promised portion… not as the world gives, but as only he can give. Amen!
Elaine, this post touched my heart so much. I too have had a rough two years – the passing of my father and then the suicide of my brother less than a year later. At times, I have felt as if I have been putting on the "strong faith" face for people because I didn't want them to know what was really going on in my life, my heart, my soul. I have really been tested during this last two years. My faith has really been tested, and I have to admit it has been weak at times, even to the point of asking myself if I had any faith left at all, or if I even believed in anything anymore!
I am struggling friend. Struggling with decisions about my employment (not sure if this is where God needs me to be anymore), the church I am attending (really questioning that one!), if I am being effective in my ministry as a youth leader anymore, etc. Some days it really is a struggle to get out of bed. I am more than positive that you can relate!
Thanks for sharing the story in 2 Kings:19. I have read it over and over, and I will be praying for that 3rd year my friend! I know God is faithful. I know He always knows what is best for us. And I do trust in His timing, His ways, and His love for me. Thanks my friend!
Love ya!
Love you too!
You know what, friend? I heard it in your fb message yesterday. Something in my heart resonated with the hurt in your heart. I got it. I get it. You are not alone. Many of us have finally reached the age where pain is our portion, more often than not. Everybody's got "something". I prayed for you last night and will continue to lift you up as you seek God with all your heart. This isn't the time to let up in your fight of faith! Contend for it; wrestle it out; do so before the Father with your Bible open in your lap and don't let go until faith settles firmly in your heart. I cannot make sense of all of this cloudiness. These are, indeed, strange waters were swimming in. But we are anchored in truth… at the end of the day, always anchored in truth. Stay there. Don't leave. The shoreline is closer now than it has ever been. You are not alone; I'm swimming these same waters. You have my prayers and love.
Elaine, that was such a breath of fresh aire! Give my love to your kitty too!
I'm still here, Elaine! I sometimes feel that I'm limping along (physically and spiritually), but I'm so glad to share the same journey with you.
Your video really resonated with me. It's tough going through the difficult times in our lives. I'll admit…I get so frustrated and tired at times that I just want to give up. But, that's exactly what the enemy wants us to do, isn't it? When I remember that, I realize that giving up can never be an option. (Can I just say, though, that I'm SO READY for that third year? It can't get here soon enough for me!)
Keeping to it…with Jesus and with you. Thanks so much for challenging me, encouraging me, and praying for me. You are a true friend.
Love you
P.S. Seeing your sweet face and hearing your voice makes me miss you even more!
P.P.S. I always enjoy reading Billy's comments to you. That's a wonderful hubby you have!
Thank you for being here today, Valarie. And thanks for sharing the word of encouragement with Angelique. I really appreciate your letting me know. Blessings, sister.
I hear you, sister. We've got to get together sometime this year… maybe in the fall! Let's talk soon.
FYI, Valarie, I stopped by your blog but couldn't find a way to leave a comment. This is probably intentional on your part, and that's fine. I just wanted you to know.
You are a blessing.
You didn't intend it, but your words are God's birthday message to me today, on this my 59th birthday. Never did I see these words in the same light that you shed on them today!
Sow and reap on the third year…
A remnant… a band of survivors…
The zeal of the Lord will do this.
What better companion can we have for our journey than the zeal of the Lord?
You and I have been fellow pilgrims down this road…
And yes, I must say that I am willing to offer my shoulders to carry my share of the load. Harvest is coming, the famine is about to end… what a glorious message of hope, dear Faith Elaine.
Much love
Lidia
Oh this just blesses me, Lidia! Happy birthday friend. I'm so glad you're in my life.
Christ in me… that's the only explanation I can offer for being a blessing to anyone. You humble me, sister.
Beautiful post, Elaine. The famine is indeed almost over, and we WILL be restored and take root–in Christ. In Jesus. It's in Him that every precious promise comes to pass, for those promises are all Yes and Amen. And in the meantime, there is divine provision, and the hope of the 3rd day.
Hugs to you, sweet Elaine.
Hi Elaine:
So glad to get to see and hear you. As always I leave your blog encouraged and with food to chew on.
Blessings,
Marita
It's always a joy to join you, Elaine. Forgive my absense. I'm on my third week with bronchitis complicated by asthma and type 1 diabetes, so I haven't been online much. But as always, I found encouragement in your wise words. Waiting is hard. I'm missisng Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, but I'm trusting the Lord has a plan for my novels, and I'm looking on the horizon to see His hand. Love ~ Danie
Elaine, such a needed word I re-posted it at The White Stone. Thank you. You are light in Blogland!!
http://revelation217.com/2012/04/04/elaine/