Hello! Welcome to my blog! I have recorded past journal entries from devotional journaling as well as nature and travel photos. It is my aim to pass on the encouragement of the Lord to other sisters in Christ.
Each new day brings new and fresh mercies, new and fresh strength, new and fresh assurance that I care for you, protect you, love you and comfort you. I am by your side 24/7.
When darts and arrows fly, use my shield of faith and sword of the truth to deflect incoming missiles of doubt, lies or worry. Stand on the promises of my Word. They are sure footing. Call on the power of My name. Evil will flee from you.
I am mighty to save, and worthy of your trust.
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith,with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one…
Photo by Jean Christiansen. Montreal Botanical Gardens.
I hear the Lord say:
I love you with an everlasting love. I see you with the eyes of an adoring Father. I have a path laid out for you. There are curves ahead with surprises around each one! There are shade trees for you to enjoy. The journey is not hard; it is a joyful journey, with new experiences waiting. I will equip you for the journey and provide rest along the way. There is no rush. Everything will get done. Take each day as an opportunity to learn more about me and grow closer to me. I have lots to show you!
I have loved you with an everlasting love;
Therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.
Photo by Jean Christiansen. Montmorency Falls, Quebec, Canada
I hear the Lord say:
Abiding means trusting in My presence in all circumstances. Even when engrossed in a task, I am nearby – watching and caring. My angels watch over you day and night. Rest in the assurance of My presence. I hold out My hand and lift you up. I steady your steps along the path. I bring you a refreshing breeze to cool you and to lift your spirits. The path leads up, up, up to a closer walk with Me. It is not an arduous climb but one of joy in the effort. As hikers climb to see a beautiful waterfall, you climb to grow closer in fellowship with Me. Much beauty and adventure wait for you.
Note: I had put a load of laundry in the washer before my quiet time. As I read my devotion then waited for the Lord, I hear the Lord say: Your mind and emotions are spinning now, just like the washing machine you hear. As the washer spins and agitates the clothes, it may seem ‘violent’ – a shaking up – an agitation – but its ultimate purpose is to rid the clothes of dirt and render them ‘clean’ and ‘acceptable.’ So your life will have ‘shaking up’, and ‘agitation.’ It seems unwelcome but its purpose is to rid you of selfish desires, to purify you, to cleanse you and bring you to Me clean and renewed. Trials give you insight into your priorities: how you spend your time and a desire to re-calibrate your activities. After the washing, you are ready for the ‘drying.’ My Spirit Wind blows you dry, bringing peace and new revelations of my design and purpose for you. It is a spirit of renewal and growth. The trials are a refining process. Don’t run from them but embrace them. Draw nearer… come closer… abide in Me. Trust in Me.
For you know that when your faith is tested,
it stirs up power within you to endure all things.
And then as your endurance grows even stronger,
it will release perfection into every part of your being
until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking.
Photo by Jean Christiansen. Porch at Montgomery Place. Annandale-on-Hudson, NY
I hear the Lord say:
Be settled, my love. Let down your guard and let your light shine. All is well. I will give you strength to carry out your calling. It will be joyful and exciting. It will make you feel alive with My Spirit. My throne room awaits your presence. My Spirit infuses you with power. Supernatural energy will fill you as you step inside. All my children have access to My throne room. My Son, Jesus, has the keys. As you abide in Him, you have unlimited access. Come and see the treasures I have to share. My banquet table is laden with abundant fruit. Come and dine with Me. Taste the sweetness of My bounty. It satisfies your soul. Come sit on My lovely couches – they are soft and comfortable. The fabric feels inviting and luxurious. Sit and relax. Fellowship with Me. Do you hear the music? It is a melody of love and praise. It is soothing and inspiring. All your senses are satisfied in My presence. There is nothing lacking. “Be still, my soul.”
Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters…
Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good,
and delight yourself in rich food.
Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live…
Listen, precious one. I offer a day by day ‘joining’ with me. Joined in spirit as you abide in me. Joined in purpose as I reveal myself to you and my plans to you. Joined as a branch attached to my vine, receiving life giving sap through your veins, renewing and refreshing your spirit and filling you with overflowing love, mercy and grace. Joined in order to gain wisdom and understanding. Joined in celebration of a life of abundance. Joined in supernatural power to accomplish the good works I have chosen for you. Let my Holy Spirit infuse your mind and spirit with his love and peace as you trust me each day, each moment, each night, to guide and walk with you. To know me is to love me – I have all you need. Listen for my voice throughout your day. It is a quiet, gentle voice. Put aside the din of work demands and listen for my words of instruction and wisdom. I can give you new insights and renewed vision for your future. You have unlimited resources from me. There are no boundaries or burdens to my creativity or accomplishments. Try it and see!