Β© Tee-Tee Barnes, 2014
LORD. . .
and heap it upon myself?
Did I say it was for You
and make it mine instead?
Did I allow Your glory to
become something less than divine?
Did I keep honor for myself
that was meant for You?
GOD. . .
examine me thoroughly
purge every ugly hideous part
create in me a snow white heart
renew and restore the joy missing
so others see Your glory instead of me.
~Marcell Warner Bridges
Β©15 October 2014
Β© Bridgescreations, 2014
“When troubles arise and your faith begins to falter, your God stands ready to help. Spread out your request before God and pray that He will listen. Remember that His power is mightier than any battle you face today.” (2 Kings 19:14-16) ~ Quiet Reflections of Hope
“As I choose Godβs wisdom to guide me, discretion will protect me.” (Proverbs 2:11) ~ Writers Devotions to Go
“In spiritual matters, Godβs Word gives clear direction about the way we should go.” (John 14:6) ~ God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea – Rose Chandler Johnson
“God, grant me the courage and wisdom to know when it is right to fight.” (Psalm 58:6-7) ~ Revealing Jesus – Darlene Zschech
Β© Karen Murphy Photography, 2014
Once again, God brought all of these devotions to the same idea. Same focus.
Focus. On Jesus.
So I began by writing to Him…
“A lot of times my words feel stupid and not right. I spend so much time trying to find the right words to say, things that will help and bless others, but once sent out into that void, they seem useless and not what blesses others. I even find myself thinking it is boring and what is the point? Maybe Iβm writing to brick walls and the words do not penetrate where they should. And now youβve brought to my mind what I just told a friend the other day. “Writing for You, my audience of one, is the most important.” . . . OH HOW FAR I HAVE FALLEN! Dear Lord, I un-surrendered my writing, didnβt I? I took it back and even though I said I was writing for You, and I prayed over each post, I really wasnβt, was I? . . .
“Lord, I confess, I have only been reading blog posts and Your Word to find things to write about and while this is a good motive, Lord, Iβve made it all about me, instead of all about You. Iβve stolen Your glory and made it mine. Dear Lord, Iβm so sorry. Today I choose to re-surrender this part of me to You. I choose to write for You, my audience of one. No matter if what I write, publish or post is read by anyone else, no matter if it encourages or blesses any other person or not, I ask Lord that You alone will be glorified. . . . Dear Lord, thank You for making me aware of this doubt and failure in my heart. I give this over to You today. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my redeemer.” In Jesus Name, Amen.”
Β© Tee-Tee Barnes, 2014
Β© Heart Thoughts, Marcie Bridges, 2014
Beautiful expression of your thoughts, Marcie! I have been doing the same thing and struggling to get back to a good place.
Norma, thank you so much for the encouragement. It's interesting how so many of us deal with the same struggles but we don't realize it until someone else talks about it. I'll be keeping you in my prayers as you seek God in this area of your life. Blessings, Marcie xxx
I really enjoyed reading through your website, and your pictures are so beautiful. I especially love the lighthouse! Thank you for sharing your gift from God with the world.
Blessings to you and yours,
Shirley
http://www.lightlovehope.com
Shirley, thank you so much for stopping by and thank you for the encouraging and kind words. I really needed those today. I will be sure to visit your website as well. In Christ, Marcie π
Love these. Thanks for sharing your heart!
HI Cheril! Thank you for stopping by and your kind words. I really appreciate them. Blessings, Marcie
Thank you Marci for sharing these encouraging words with us. It's important to be reminded to FOCUS on JESUS. The spirit is willing but the body is weak and with all good intentions how quickly the focus goes right back to ourselves.
Thank you Rose. I believe I need to take my own words to heart today. Writing it and living it can be two very different and difficult things. Thank you for the gift of your devotional book. I am really enjoying it. Thank you, Marcie π
This is powerful Marcie girl! You expressed the struggle so beautifully. Thank you for your humility and grace as you share Jesus with others. Love you π
Thank you and Love you too Nan π