Perfect Peace- Who wants some of that?

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Perfect Peace- Who wants some of that?

“You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]. Trust [confidently] in the Lord forever [He is your fortress, your shield, your banner], For the Lord God is an everlasting Rock [the Rock of Ages]." -Isaiah 26:3-4

Sometimes hard times happen. They come when we least expect it, under the fold of joyful times. Times when everything seems just perfect, the enemy jumps at the opportunity to steal and destroy (that's kind of his thing).

He takes joy in taking moments of joy and attempting to turn them to ruin. And so we struggle.

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3 Not-So-Secret Keys to a Joy-Filled Life

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3 Not-So-Secret Keys to a Joy-Filled Life

I have finally realized that I cannot bark, punish, or fight my children into obedience... because fear-based obedience is temporary and empty. I've had an "awakening" that the only way into a trusting relationship in which they seek to be obedient to my will (and one day God's) is simply through LOVING them well.

But HOW? And what does that even look like? Aside from the obvious hugs, kisses, encouraging words, and late night chats (that we all do anyway). I mean, it sounds great on paper... but what do I DO when they argue, fight, talk back, or don't obey?

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Finding God's Presence in Living Given

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Finding God's Presence in Living Given

IF we should give or HOW MUCH we should give or HOW OFTEN we should give isn't what God is echoing in my heart right now, but instead WHY we should give. And even moreso- WHAT should we give? 

What is revealed about God in this call on us to pass forward what's been given to us? Is there a hidden secret that: the giving away of much is where we find the proof that is grace is hidden in the not enough? That when we live our lives given, we find God's presence even thicker and more palpable? Is it that His grace is found in the minuscule pieces that are left when we've given it all away?

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