The Resting Place

A Priceless Gift

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my Word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:9-11

On May 11, 1960, a man and his wife walked into my 5th grade classroom in a small East Texas town and presented each student with a Gideon New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs, much like the ones that are distributed by Gideons and Auxiliary members today. What I remember most about that day, was how kind the man and his wife were to the students. I remember their smiles and the love that was shown toward us as clearly as if it happened a few short days ago. John, Chapter 13, verse 35 says the following: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” I now know that it was Christ’s love this man and his wife were exhibiting so well.

The picture shown above is the same Testament I received that day. It’s pretty worn out, but I’m so happy that I still have it. In the back of the Testament, I entered handwritten scripture references for the Plan of Salvation as our visitors took time to share these key verses with the students. Today, Testaments and Bibles distributed by Gideon and Auxiliary members have this information already printed on the back cover for the recipients.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have envisioned that many years later, the Lord would lead my husband and me into this worldwide association. I wouldn’t know that in spite of not being able go into school classrooms to share God’s Word, there would be many opportunities, in various other ways, to do my part in making a difference for the Kingdom of God.

Needless to say, the work of the Gideons and their wives holds a special place in my heart. I am thankful to be associated with so many wonderful people who love the Lord, others, and each other.

Today, I am so thankful to still have that worn out New Testament, with Psalms and Proverbs. How special that someone cared enough to share God’s Word with me—a little country girl, who a year later, gave her heart to Jesus Christ for all eternity.

Friends, we should never underestimate the power of God’s Word when the Holy Spirit is leading us to share our faith with others. One Bible and one visit to a classroom continues to make a difference in a little girls heart many years later. I am living proof and will gladly testify to the truth found in Isaiah 55:11— that His Word will not return void.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for The Gideons International–an association of Christian business and professional men, and their wives, located in 197 countries around the world with one singular purpose of winning men, women, boys and girls to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Thank you for using a Gideon and Auxiliary member to make a difference in my life many years ago. Help me to listen for the still small voice of the Holy Spirit as I strive to live for You in complete obedience. Thank you for the many opportunities of sharing Your Word. Go with me as I tell others what a difference Jesus Christ has made in my life. Help me to radiate His love and hope to those I encounter through divine appointments. Transform me by Your love so that I might pass it on to others in Your name. To You be all glory, honor and praise. In Jesus name, I pray this prayer. Amen.

Thanks, Mom

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.” Jeremiah 31:3

Happy Mother’s Day to you moms out there! You sometimes have a tiring and thankless job, but rest assured you are making a difference in the lives of your children!

Recently, I tackled the dreaded task of cleaning my closet. Not exciting, but necessary! I have built-in shelves in the closet, which serve as an overflow to many of my books.

As I was cleaning, I got sidetracked, sat down in the floor, and began looking through the books. I spotted the one pictured above which my daughter, Shelly, had given me on Mother’s Day, 2010. She wrote the most beautiful message inside, telling me how much she loved me. She stated that I was the most wonderful mother and grandmother in the world. I sure did welcome her loving words. Seeing and reading them from her own handwriting brought me sadness mixed with joy. So I took a break, had a good cry, and read a few of the inspirational messages from the book. I know that the above verse of Scripture, found in the front of the book is very true.

After spending a few minutes re-acquainting myself with this special book, I decided to place it for a photo near the angels on my desk. Granddaughter Sophie, now 10-years old, often rearranges the special angels. Over the years, she and her mom, Shelly, have gifted me with the angels on special occasions. I usually leave them where Sophie places each one until she decides to change them around again, because doing that has meaning to her. She is remembering her mommy. The pretty angel in the middle has my birthstone and was a special gift from Shelly a few years ago. Sophie, without prompting from me, recognizes how special it is to me.

As Shelly’s mother, I loved and comforted her as long as she was alive. That’s what our Heavenly Father does for us and I am so thankful for the comfort that He has given me and will continue to give throughout my lifetime. That thought alone brings joy, yes, even through tears. He will always care for His children because He can do no less. Why? He loves us so much more than we will ever know. We belong to Him now and forever. He will always stand beside us, carry us when we can’t walk, and never leave us!

I am most blessed to have been Shelly’s mother and to have been loved by her as I was. Words will never express my deep love for her from birth until death. Even though Shelly is not here with me on yet, another Mother’s Day, she continues to live on, deep inside my heart. BUT, it doesn’t end there! That is the good news!! I will see her again someday. Until then, I’m so glad I found this book. No doubt it was God’s timing!

Today could be a sad day for you. I pray that it isn’t, but if you’re a mom and are grieving the loss of a child, please know that God loves you with an everlasting love.

If you’ve lost a beloved family member or friend, rest assured that Jesus is there to wipe the tears from your eyes and your heart.

If you’ve been knocked down by life’s circumstances, please be assured that your Heavenly Father knows every hurt you feel. He is waiting to comfort you and will lead you through your grief or other hurt one step at a time. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust Him with your tears. Trust Him with your past, your present, and your future. He will not let you down. Ever!

Moms, young and old, I pray that you are appreciated, not only today, but every day. Motherhood is not for the faint of heart. May you have a great day and find rest not only for your body, but for your soul. You definitely deserve it!

God Knows No Limits

“So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day.”  Joshua 10:13

The above scripture reflects how God came through in a mighty way, giving victory to Joshua and the Israelites. There is no explanation as to how or why the sun stood still and did not go down that day. God allowed this so that His people could avenge themselves and destroy every last one of their enemies.

Today we know that God is sovereign and He is free to carry out His plan for our lives. He is able to do whatever He will, whenever He will. He is not limited by space or time.

We also know that God does not follow rules.

He creates them.

He does not worry about political correctness, because He does whatever needs to be done for our good and for His eternal purposes.

If we saturate ourselves in the Word and ask the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds to what He wants us to learn, we will come to know some of His character. But He will remain a mystery to us because His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways are not our ways. However, the wonderful news today is that we do not have to understand Him; we just need to follow Him. He’ll do the rest for us. With that attitude, we can always quote the verse of scripture that our Lord Jesus uttered, “Not my will, but Thine be done.” Matt. 26:39

A Personal Storm

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. “Isaiah 41:10 ESV

Springtime in Texas often brings with it some pretty severe storms. Recently our city experienced an F2 intensity tornado. Although the local television station meteorologists were closely monitoring the severe storms in the area, “our” tornado actually popped up right before striking, seemingly out of nowhere. Over 600 homes were badly damaged, with 19 of those homes being totally destroyed. Even though extensive damage to properties occurred, we praise the Lord there were no serious injuries or fatalities. Needless to say, it was a very scary time for our community.

Our storm did pass, but with major damage and destruction, it will be a long time before things are back to normal for those whose homes and lives were affected. It has been good to see everyone coming together to help with cleanup and provisions that are needed.

As much as we’d like to avoid them, there are other types of storms that sometimes pop up out of nowhere. We may be rocking right along and all seems right in our world. Life is good. All is well. Suddenly, our lives are shaken to the core, testing every ounce of faith, courage, strength, and perseverance within us.

Allow me to tell you about my family’s greatest storm to date. It came on May 29, 2015, when my daughter, Shelly, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I watched her suffer for 17.5 months before Jesus called her home. During that time, I entered into uncharted waters emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

During Shelly’s illness, I spent at least 5 days a week, doing what a mother does—trying with all my might to make things better for her—to fix what was wrong. However, I found myself powerless to fix anything. Some days, I felt as though I wanted to run away, or wake up and find that it was all a bad dream. Then, I felt guilty for feeling that way! Life became a vicious cycle of tears and heaviness.

Shelly’s illness and death took an unimaginable toll on me. I say this not for pity, but simply as a fact. I was left with a broken heart unlike anything I had ever experienced. I’ve suffered a fair amount of loss, pain, and uncertainty in my life, but this time it was almost too much for me to bear. The human Carolyn entertained the thought of giving up. However, I found no other way out than to rely on God for every breath that I took. When you’re at that point, there’s only one direction in which to safely go. I chose wisely because deep down, I knew this was where I would find my comfort and peace.

I did not give up because I realized what I already knew in my spirit—that I could never stop trusting and serving the Lord. How could I, when He has always been so faithful to me, even in the midst of the deep, dark valley in which I dwelt.

I could not give up because His faithfulness, love, grace, provision, perfect timing, and mercy were so evident during Shelly’s illness and ultimate home going.

I could not give up because I realized that the relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was the most important relationship I would ever have in my life. I needed Jesus more than ever. I needed the never-changing stability He brought to my life. I needed my Christian sisters and brothers, my church family, those who had been faithful to pray diligently for Shelly and her family. During our season of sorrow these brothers and sisters went the extra mile to stand firm with us in ONE Spirit. This act of love will never be forgotten.

In the midst of my dark valley, I realized that God still had a plan and a job for me to do—which included telling others what Jesus has done for me, even in the valley. Especially in the valley. And how He can do the same for them if they will only trust Him.

Before she went to heaven, Shelly told me that she hoped I could tell my story someday. When given the opportunity to speak to others, I have tried to do that in a small way. It is just one way that I can honor God and Shelly’s memory, while keeping both close to my heart.

If you are facing a situation today that seems impossible to maneuver, I want to encourage you to turn your worries and heartaches over to Jesus. Whatever you do, don’t quit!! Through His endless love and mercy, He remains the same as He was yesterday, as He is today, and as He will be tomorrow. There is never a situation in life He can’t handle. Give Him all of your burdens. Give Him your sadness. Give Him your grief. Give Him your uncertainties and insecurities. Give Him EVERYTHING! Jesus waits for you to knock on His hearts door. He is ready and willing to open the door.

Today, I want to urge you to going forward because Jesus walks beside you. And on those days when you are too weary to walk, He’ll carry you! I guarantee it! Better still, He and His Word guarantees it!!

Remember, your storms won’t last. Things may not be the same, but God, in all of His mercy, will help you to keep going forward one day at a time. He will see you through.

Dreaded Monday

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b

During the years of my gainful employment, I seldom ever looked forward to Monday’s. Having enjoyed a relaxing weekend, I usually dreaded going back to work. I really liked my job and my coworkers, so that wasn’t the reason I dreaded returning to the routine I’d had for so many years. Perhaps, I liked the freedom of a weekend more than a set routine. Now, I’m thinking that it was a waste of a perfectly good day because many times I went to work without any expectations of having a great day! Especially on Monday’s! Now, my attitude on a Friday—well, that’s a different story, but for another day.

I wonder what would happen if we awoke every day—even Monday’s, with determination to “live life on the bright side?” This phrase is the title of my dear friend, Mary Howell’s book, called Life on the Bright Side. Mary and I grew up together in East Texas and reconnected after many years. When I was home, my sister and I visited Mary as often as we could. During those visits, we ate, laughed, cried, and prayed together. We enjoyed picnics among the tall pine trees at the local park. Peggy and I always came away uplifted from our time spent with Mary. She was an inspiration to many, and we were no exception.

Mary is in Heaven now, happy and whole. In spite of her moment by moment physical challenges, Mary knew how to live to the fullest, and with joy. I miss the fact that she prayed for me every day. Mary was a woman of her word and I never doubted for one minute that she wasn’t praying for my family and me daily. She once told me that she prayed for over 400 people every day—she knew the exact number. You see, as a result of injuries sustained from a fall, Mary was quadriplegic and could only use her brilliant mind. Praying was one thing she could do as she went through each day.

We need many more people like my friend, Mary—the blind, the sighted, the walkers and those who aren’t able to walk, to carry the mantle of prayer as faithfully as Mary did. I lost so much when I lost Mary’s daily prayers. I will always miss her, but am looking forward to seeing the “new” Mary when I get to Heaven.

A random thought today: It doesn’t matter where you have been. It matters where you are going. Why not go full speed for the Kingdom today? Like Mary, ask God to help you live your life on the bright side! It might just turn a dreaded Monday into a magnificent one with more possibilities than you could have ever imagined!

Tears

“You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.” Psalm 56:8

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

It was just one of those days. While in conversation with a family member, I broke down, sobbing from the weight of my grief and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. In those moments, I was stripped of all pretense and my heavy heart was laid bare. Finally composing myself, I apologized, thinking I was the elder and should be showing strength instead of what I considered weakness. It was then that I heard the most precious words spoken to me in a long time: “Your tears are always welcome in my home!” How blessed we are to have a family member or friend who will welcome our brokenness into their hearts and home!

As promised in His Word, one day God will wipe away every tear from our eyes. There will be no more sorrow or pain. Until then, His Word also tells us that He collects our tears in His bottle. What a great mental picture I have of that! Even for just myself, He must have a very large bottle! To know that we have such a personal Heavenly Father astounds and humbles me.

Today, I pray that we open our hearts to the needs of others and be the listening ear they need. In doing so, we will be able to point them to the One who ultimately wipes every tear from their eyes. He definitely understands our tears.

I love the words to the song below:

Tears Are A Language
The Heritage Singers

Often you wonder why tears come into your eyes
And burdens seem to be much more than you can bear
But God is standing near, He sees your falling tears
Tears are a language God understands

God sees the tears of a brokenhearted soul
He sees your tears and hears them when they fall
God weeps along with man and He takes him by the hand
Tears are a language God understands

When grief has left you low it causes tears to flow
When things have not turned out the way that you had planned
But God won’t forget you His promises are true
Tears are a language God understands

God sees the tears of a brokenhearted soul
He sees your tears and hears them when they fall
God weeps along with man and He takes him by the hand
Tears are a language God understands

Take Time

I do love the quietness of a morning when I haven’t let my own “busyness” stand in the way of being still before God. (Psalm 46:10) I’m so thankful for another day—one more day to get up and show up for Him.

As I write this, I’m looking at one of the rose bushes outside my window and I’m thankful that they are the “easy ones” to grow! Even though I don’t have a green thumb, I sure can appreciate the beauty that I see and hear all around me.

Nearby, the birds are singing a beautiful melody with such gusto! I am reminded that they have no worries, no fears, no anxiety. If God takes care of them, (Matthew 6:25-34) He will certainly do to same for us. In fact, He is able to do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” (Ephesians 3:20).

Today, and every day, we have a perfect Heavenly Father who loves us more than we could ever comprehend. May we take time to find rest in gratitude (Colossians 4:2) for all He has done for us, and for all He intends to do. His love and care for us will never fail.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

“Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in gratitude.” Colossians 4:2

“No matter what’s coming at you this week, the thing is:
No amount of regret changes the past,
No amount of anxiety changes the future,
Any amount of grateful joy changes the present.” Ann Voskamp

Home


“Home is where the heart is,” I’ve often heard it said.
“All that’s really needed is a place to lay your head.”

For some a home may have very little measure
No thoughts of what to make it, no memories there to treasure

But home is so much more than just a place to me
Home should be a shelter from the storms of life we see

Much more than just a simple place we find ourselves to live
But one in which we often share the things we have to give

A home should be a sanctuary for all who make it such
A place of love for others, a place their hearts to touch

My childhood home was such a place, of that I do recall
Deep love and understanding there was given to us all

Seven little children were taught to love the Lord
To walk in all His perfect ways, to love His Holy Word

Brothers and sisters there who dearly loved each other
And tried to live in such a way as was taught by our dear mother

It was my earthly home, though not a perfect place
That shaped me as I am today and helped me run this race

Reminding me of the path to take that’s always in the right
So that one sweet day to heaven above, I’ll take my final flight

Yes, home is what you make it, and I’ve tried to do my best
To make a place where love abounds and offers needed rest

Although we are not perfect, may the traits of who we are
Show love and understanding to those both near and far

In that heavenly realm above where love and joy abound
One day my earthly sorrows will forever be laid down

For such a place of majesty I surely long to see
There at last to dwell forever, in my heavenly home I’ll be.

Author: Carolyn Canizales, 2020

Spiritual Feet

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”” Isaiah 52:7

When I was growing up, there were seldom shoes on my feet. I just loved going barefoot!

During the summer months when my brothers and I were out of school, we never wore shoes. I cannot tell you how many rusty nails and grass burrs (stickers) we stepped on during that time. Oh, my! Those were some painful experiences, physically speaking! However, I was never deterred from repeating my country girl habits. To this day, I still go barefoot in the house and am very thankful there are no rusty nails or grass burrs to dodge!

This morning I was thinking about our feet from a spiritual angle. Do we have compassionate, kind, tender hearted, loving feet that carry us places where we are able to serve the Lord? How are we to put our feet into action during these unprecedented times? There are lots of things that could possibly hinder us—our modern day rusty nails and stickers. However, it comes as no surprise that God always has a plan and is ready to make a way for us to serve Him passionately as His Spirit directs.

If we are willing, He is able. May He use each of us to tell the old, old story in some way today—for His glory alone.

I love to tell the story, twill be my theme in glory
To tell the old, old story, of Jesus and His love 🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶

Rest, Relax, Listen

“But the LORD was not in the wind; the LORD was not in the earthquake; the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire a still small voice.” 1 Kings 19:11-12

We are sometimes overrun with the noise of the world, and the busyness of our own daily lives. It can often be a challenge to sit still and block out all that is on our minds in order to spend needed time with the Lord. More often than not, I am hard pressed to merely sit still! My day begins early and I usually don’t stop until bedtime. I have to be intentional in setting aside my spiritual quiet time, although my mind never strays too far from thoughts of a spiritual nature or comforting songs. It is in these quiet moments with the Lord that we never fail to gain His peace and comfort deep in our hearts. Being still in His presence gives needed strength for the day and sets us on a course of keeping Him in the forefront of our thoughts and actions.

Have you taken time to listen for Him? Have you placed your burdens on His shoulders instead of dragging them around on your own? I can testify to the fact that God is BIGGER, WISER, and STRONGER than we will ever be. Our thoughts and ways are pitiful compared to His. How thankful we can be for His willingness to speak to us through these moments as we listen for His still, small voice.

Today, why not rest your mind, relax, and listen. Open His Word and read of the life giving water so freely offered for mankind. Sense His presence in the midst of where you are and be ready to meet the day head on, knowing that He is beside you every step of the way.

Find Encouragment In

Categories

<>