Recently there was an international day of prayer for the persecuted Church, and at our church we tried to understand a little of what it might be like when the penalty for faith in Jesus can be torture or even death. We pulled down all the window shades and lowered the lights, because in the [...]
{ 3 comments }
The title of my new venture (this series) is “Findings.” I thought it would be appropriate to start by mentioning how I arrived at that particular word to use as the series name, it did involve a bit of soul searching. I thought of my life and the paths I have taken; the good influences [...]
{ 1 comment }
In church recently, we sang a new song. Maybe you know it? The chorus goes… I am free to run I am free to dance I am free to live for you I am free, I am free Maybe I am slow on the uptake, but it took me 3 or 4 times through this [...]
{ 2 comments }
The Valley of the Shadow is quiet and still, with no breath of wind and no bright and shining sun to illuminate that dim pathway that draws us onward. It is always twilight here. The shadows fall deep, distorting our images as we cautiously make our way toward the western horizon. All is spoken in [...]
{ 1 comment }
It is a new year, again. 2011 is gone and 2012 is ahead, filled with possibilities and potential. For some, it can be drudgery to enter a new year, and for others it is a brand new, clean slate. Many make a list of resolutions to ensure a better new year: to be a better [...]
{ 2 comments }
“Leave it all behind. Leave it all behind.” I’m listening to these words from Casting Crowns latest song, The Well. Singing in my best Mark Hall imitation voice, I revel in Jesus’ willingness to take all my burdens on Himself while replacing them with His love and strength. Yet… I know I haven’t left it [...]
{ 3 comments }
“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
Anyone besides me have a hard time being still and quieting yourself before the Lord? Sometimes, my quiet time is anything but quiet and it is difficult to be at peace so I can enjoy the presence of my God. But, this verse is both a command and a beautiful gift from God. When we draw into a quiet place to spend time with our Lord, our Lord’s peace in us quiets our weary souls so that we can truly be still. James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” When this happens, we can feel the presence of our God and let his love and peace wash over us so we can just be still and worship.
Father, thank you for making it possible for us to draw near to you. Forgive us for allowing our busyness to pull us away when our hearts’ desire truly is to praise you. Help me Lord to be still this morning and just be in awe of who You are. In Jesus name, amen.
Drawing nearer,
Nicole
We ocassionally send updates from CWO as well recently published articles by email. You agree to receive these emails by filling out the above form. We will not sell or give away your email address.