The Resting Place

He’s Waiting

“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13

I have a long list of things to get done, but on this quiet and peaceful Sunday afternoon, my thoughts drifted to spiritual matters. After a wonderful morning at church, I found another way to show my appreciation for what Jesus has done for me. I hope this simple poem will help others remember what God has done for them. As Christians, we have much to be thankful for. Blessings to all.

He’s Waiting

I’ve walked some mighty long roads in my life
And I’ve been held hostage by worry and strife

Traveled through sadness, sorrow, and pain
Convinced that my eyes would always see rain

Hiding the fact that my heart was well broken
Engaging in life without hurts being spoken

I longed for true peace and contentment to be
Deep in my heart, something special for me

Others I’d seen had a sweet peace so real
And I knew they had something I wanted to feel

Then Jesus came in as quick as a wink
And gave me new life that caused me to think

How he’d been there with me all the day long
And He was the One who gave me this song

It’s a song that I’ve carried for many a year
And I’ll always be thankful for something so dear

This song I’ll keep singing as long as I can
Of how He has changed me and shown me His plan

He helps me to see those who are sad and alone
Just like I once was, til He gave me a song

He helps me to tell them that life does have pain
But in trusting the Son, they will have Heaven’s gain

That His ways are all perfect; His plan is the best
And that He will lead them to valleys of rest

Friend, if you’re walking a lonely dark road
He wants to relieve you of your heavy load

Trust Him today and find all that and more
For He’s waiting to enter your lonely heart’s door

It’s up to you to let Him come in
You have a choice to stay where you’ve been

Or enter into a new relationship sweet
Where forever you’re privileged to sit at His feet.

But please don’t delay; life goes by so fast
Believe in the Son, then you’ll have something that lasts.

Written by: Carolyn McDaniel Canizales, 5-28-23

Happy Mother’s Day!

“As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children” (1 Thessalonians 2:6b-7).

“She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She opens her mouth with wisdom , and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Her children rise up and call her blessed. Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:17,26,28, 30

“No man is poor who has a godly mother.” Abraham Lincoln.

Happy Mother’s Day! Mothers and grandmothers are special and have a purpose that God created them for before they were born.

Many of us have strong women in our line. I have said many times what a wonderful mother my six siblings and I were blessed with. My daughter, Shelly always said she got her strength from me and I now see that strength in her children.

We’ve had praying mothers—ones who gave so much love to us. That love has played a huge role in shaping us to be who we are today. Because of our mother’s unconditional love, we have been able to look at our strengths. weaknesses, fears, and failures. We recognize the areas where we have survived only by the grace of God.

I am thankful to have had a mother who taught her children through the way she lived life. She was perfect in my eyes–a wonderful Christian woman–humble, gentle, and full of such a deep love for her family. By the life she lived before us daily, we were taught how to love God and others. Although she is in heaven, I still miss her so much and am comforted by the fact that one day we will be reunited.

I want to share the following excerpts from the Wisdom Hunter’s Devotional, entitled “A Mother’s Love”, written by Boyd Bailey. It speaks to my heart and expresses my feeling about the Christ-like characteristics my mother possessed.

“A mother’s love reflects the love of the Lord, deep in its capacity and generous in its application. She awakens in the middle of the night to nurse a hungry infant or care for a sick child. Her intuition injects love at points of pain and in situations that require extensive encouragement. A mother’s love lingers long in conversation and understands with her sensitive heart. She loves, because Christ’s love compels her to love like Him.

Moreover, a mother’s love is loyal and longstanding. A child may be in trouble, but Mom is always close by, full of compassion and acceptance. Her love can be blind in its loyalty, but her offspring never doubts where they are welcome. Jesus was rejected by angry, jealous men and abandoned by His closest friends, but His mother was waiting with Him to the bitter end, “Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother…” (John 19:25a).

A mother’s love even has the capacity to be a mother to those who are not biologically her own. She opens her home, shares her food, gives her time, dispenses her wisdom, and encourages obedience to follow Christ. Paul experienced this. “Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too” (Romans 16:13). Moms sometime mother greatness not their own.

Lastly, a mother’s love is gentle; the way God is gentle toward His children. He calls us to love and to lead like Jesus. Love serves people and does not rule with rigor. “God’s servant must not be argumentative, but a gentle listener and a teacher who keeps cool, working firmly but patiently with those who refuse to obey” (2 Timothy 2:24, TM).”

Thankfully, my mother was the type of person Mr. Bailey speaks of in his devotional. Knowing my Mother would welcome me home despite my failures and poor choices reinforced the assurance that I always had those earthly arms to run to. This is also how our heavenly Father is. He loves us despite our failures and bids us to come to Him for rest, safety, and comfort. For me, knowing that He loves me that much gives a peace deep within that nothing else can even come close to giving. I pray that each of you has experienced, or will experience this peace in your heart and life.

Prayer: Father, God. Thank You for the privilege of motherhood. Help each of us to continually look to You for guidance in our role as mothers and grandmothers. Lead us in love to be the kind of role models that You desire, so that we might gain the respect and love of our families. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

In Memory of Verdie Sophia Smith McDaniel, 11-25-1911 – 10-10-1990 and Shelly Rena Forston, 5-25-1967 – 11-13-2016

How Great Thou Art

“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:28-31

On that particular Sunday, the church service had just begun with the congregation singing the hymn, “How Great Thou Art.” As the meaningful words to this song were lifted high in adoration to God, a beautiful sight brought tears to my eyes and deeply touched my heart. There, in the back of the church, slowly making her way to a pew was one of our dear seniors, a sweet lady whose smile has always been contagious. The main thing that brought my attention to her was not the fact that this precious lady was using a walker to maneuver her way into the church, but rather it was the joy on her face as she sang the words of the song. Her countenance reflected not only joy but a commitment to be at church despite the difficulty of getting there. It was evident that this was a lady who had loved and trusted in Jesus for many, many years and one who would finish well when her time on earth was no more. On her face, I saw the assurance that she would one day stand in the presence of the One who had been her comfort, help, and hope. At that moment, she would hear these words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:21 There was no question that she was confident of the “greatness” of God.

This dear lady, who has now gone on to Heaven encouraged me that Sunday morning without knowing it. Moments like this remind me what a wonderful thing it is to be a child of God! I am also reminded that He is bigger than any problem or frailty we might have; that He will never leave us or forsake us, whether we are young or old; that His love for us encompasses more than we can imagine; that we are NEVER too old to serve and praise Him; and that He alone will give us strength, wisdom, and the commitment to live out our lives in a manner that is pleasing to Him.

Prayer: Dear God, indeed, how great Thou art! Thank you for being with us all the days of our life, and for the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. We give thanks for those who encourage us and inspire us not only with words but by how they live their lives. Help us to be strong in our faith and love for others, as we commit everything that we are and ever hope to be to You alone. I pray this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Dark Times Never Last

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“Most of the time, God doesn’t reveal what’s next—and we can’t begin to anticipate what the future holds. But most of us never learn to walk by faith until we walk in the dark. So, if it’s dark, keep walking and trusting. Every step you walk with Jesus will lead you to where He has planned for you to be.” Jennifer Rothschild

I have found the above to be true. Dark times have taught me a lot about trusting and leaning on the only One (Jesus) who has and will always carry me through. It’s all about trusting Him first, and then embracing whatever His plan for my life involves—then walking in faith toward it. As I apply Jeremiah 29:11 to my life, there is peace in knowing that my life is in His hands.

God is so good and I’m thankful that He is always with us. While others may fail us, He never will. His mercies are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness!

Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father for always being there for us. There is no one like You and we humbly recognize Your power and majesty. You turn our dark moments into days of sunshine through Jesus who died for our sins. Please help us to look to You when we doubt, grieve, or feel discouraged. May we remember Your many promises to love and care for us, to direct us, and to strengthen us. We love You and can never thank You enough for the many blessings brought to us through Your grace and kindness. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Four O’Clock

I’ve never been a morning person, but these last few months, my sleep patterns seem to be changing! Even though it’s early, I am thankful for the quietness of a morning where my thoughts are directed upward, inward, and outward. Perhaps it’s this time of the day that I’ve been given for preparing my heart and mind to focus on my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Whatever the reason, I’m grateful.

My poems are few and far between but I whittled one out recently. Hope it encourages someone.

Four O’Clock

Right around the hour of four
That’s when my thoughts begin to soar

To no avail, I seek more rest
With mornings light, to be my best

But sleep won’t come so I give in
And let my thoughts rush and begin

I first thank God for this new day
Then ask Him what He’d have me say

To bring some hope to all in need
To share His love; to plant a seed.

I give my thanks for all He’s done
For what He gave to send His Son

I think of those sick and in pain
Whose life has seen torrential rain

I hope they know that He is there
With every step, their burden He’ll bear

He will not leave them in their sorrow
But gives His strength for each tomorrow

So thank You, Lord, for this wake-up call
Four o’clock—it’s not bad at all!

It gives me time to start my day
Quiet and alone, sweet time to pray

I’ll take this time with special care
To give You thanks for being there

For helping me to always see
Through this spiritual lens You’ve given me.

Written by:
Carolyn McDaniel Canizales
4-15-23

I Am Redeemed

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace,” Ephesians 1:7

The Christian life does not guarantee that we are spiritually immune to slipping, falling, hurting ourselves and/or others.  But, through our faith in Jesus Christ, there is a process in which the unpleasant sounding word of “sin” can be replaced by one that gives much comfort, assurance, hope, and peace. That word is “redemption.” 

Webster’s Dictionary defines the word “redemption” as follows: “The act of redeeming; rescue; ransom; that which redeems; salvation.”  Redemption is the process of being rescued or brought back to the safety of the fold. Redemption brings us to a place of rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 

How wonderful to know that God loves us enough to rescue us time and time again when we fail Him.  In human thinking, we might compare it to that of a parent who has gone through many difficult situations with a wayward or rebellious child.  Any loving parent will freely give the love that is deep within their hearts to that son or daughter and welcome them home with open arms.  This is what God does for us.  Jesus is our Shepherd. He cares for His sheep and He will always rescue the one who has gone astray and return that precious one to the safety of the fold.    

How thankful I am to say that I have been redeemed and am not the person I used to be. Even more importantly, I am thankful that I am not yet who I will be, for God is not finished with me yet!

PRAYER:  Dear God, thank you for redeeming me through your Son, Jesus Christ.  Jesus, thank you for loving me, for saving me, and for walking with me through this life.  You are everything to me and I love you.  Please bless each person reading this message and bring hope and restoration where needed.  Give peace and comfort in every situation that might arise in each of our lives.  I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen.

Through It All

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Isaiah 43:2-3

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1

What a powerful thought as I am reminded that amidst trials and hardships, Jesus has always been my source of strength. It is through these times that I have learned to depend upon His Word and more fully rely on Him as my help.

God does not always bring us around storms, but walks with us through those times so that we might learn to trust Him more fully. As the words to the song “Through It All” say, “If we never had a problem, then we would not know that God could solve them, nor would we know what faith in Him could do.”

I continue lean on and trust Jesus as He directs me in ways that I could never have imagined. He is my total source of strength. I pray that He is the source of your strength today as well.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank You for staying beside us through the tough times. Help those who may be going through such a time to fully rely on You for their strength. May they place their trust in Christ alone. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Finding Shelter

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will take my refuge, until these calamities have passed by. Psalm 55:1 (NKJV)

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

On the many occasions that I have desperately sought the comfort and shelter of God’s presence, I have never been disappointed. His Word gives me hope and strength and peace. I am so thankful for this! The deep love that I have for my heavenly Father and for Jesus Christ, my Savior has made such a difference in how I handle difficult situations. The ability to go to Him in prayer and share my hurts and fears gives me the assurance that He is listening and that He answers according to His will for my life and for those around me.

If you feel the need to seek God’s shelter due to situations that are presently surrounding you, or if there are circumstances in your life that seem to be beyond your control, just remember that you have a Savior–Jesus Christ, who wants to bring you peace and hope. He will shelter you from any storm that you may face now or in the future because He specializes in calming the storms. 

PRAYER: Father God, thank You for sheltering us from the storms of life. Through Jesus, we have the ability to rest safely in the Shepherd’s arms at all times. Help us to trust You always, knowing that You love us beyond comprehension. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.

The Race Before Us

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” Philippians 3:20

Sometimes life gets tough. We grow tired. Consequently, our spiritual endurance often suffers. Maybe this has happened at some point in your walk with the Lord. Maybe it’s been short term. Maybe longer. We are all still under construction, spiritually speaking. God continues to lead, teach, and bring us along. I sure am thankful for that!

My prayer is that we would continue to run our race with endurance, leaving a legacy of faith for all who come behind us. May others find us faithful in leaving for them, the lighted path to God’s never-ending love. May we continue to share His Word at home and around the world with those who don’t yet know Him.

Finally, may we also be reminded that our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and The Prince of Peace will never, ever leave us to run our race alone. That’s the best part and from where I sit, awfully Good News!

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, how I praise You for a new day! There is nothing that will ever compare with Your love and power. May we stay strong when life gets tough so that we can point others to the Cross. May we continually proclaim that Jesus is Lord to all who need to turn their lives around. Your ways are perfect just as You are perfect. Thank You for leading us along on life’s journey. Sometimes it’s a great adventure and at other times, we struggle with the cares of life. It is You who stands with us through it all. In You, we find our peace and rest. Thank You for Your never-ending love. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.

Lessons of the Dove

“And the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice came out of heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” Luke 3:22

Yesterday, as I settled down for some quiet time, I heard a dove “coo” from the roof of the house. Another one, several houses down was answering. Then I saw two walking around in our front yard, a place where they have not gone before.

I always think of the Holy Spirit when I hear or see a dove. Perhaps these special birds are there to remind us to be thankful for waking up to a brand new day with wonderful possibilities and to allow ourselves to be led and not get ahead of God’s plan for us that day. How comforting to know that God hears and answers us when we call— when we commune with Him. The doves are a good reminder of that truth.

Today, I’m reminded that His faithfulness and mercy are new every morning and His grace is sufficient. He is ready and willing to respond to the desires of our hearts, as well as provide for the needs in our lives. He is the initiator of every good thing. During the hard times, He pulls us through and gives us hope. Think of how He reaches for us in acceptance and love and shows Himself faithful time and again. How amazing to think that His desire is for us! We, who are so imperfect and are still a work in progress! He IS for us!! What love that conveys!! May we, in gratefulness desire to walk in the recognition of His great love today.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, there is none like You! Your power and majesty cover the whole earth and we give You praise and glory. Forgive us when we don’t take the time to see You in our daily lives. You are there and always waiting to commune with us. Thank You for Jesus our savior and Lord. Please help us to share what He has done for us with those who are empty and searching for meaning in life. Holy Spirit, cause them to realize that they will never find peace aside from an intimate relationship with Jesus. May we always remember the gentleness of a dove and conduct ourselves accordingly as we strive to do Your will in all things. I pray this in Jesus’ Holy. Amen.

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