Words of Impact; Not Truth

"Assumptions are able to produce tears, muster up laughter or evoke frustration. Those who assume gain no knowledge and lack wisdom."- me

A guy whom I strongly dislike came up to me in photography. This blue-eyed, blond-haired beast towered over me while he observed and questioned, "You're so quiet. Why are you so quiet?"

My response, "You don't always need to talk to get a point across. Silence is be the best reaction/thing at times. Aside from that, you don't know me, so that isn't an accurate statement of who I am."

Other classmates began to chime in with comments about ridiculous remarks he'd said to them. Few points were scored on his defense and redemption did not claim victory on his side. 

The day previous to this was one in which I phoned my sister. His name randomly weaved its way into our conversation as I began to vent on how much this one guy annoyed the crap out of me. I've only talked with him a few times but his behavior bothered me because he'd highlight personal flaws and place himself on an almighty pedestal.

Once this event had ceased (not the chat with my sister) the entirety of the day was spent with me dwelling over this conversation. It shook my core. This year was gonna be different! I was going to be more outgoing and boldly introduce myself to fellow peers. I've grown up, sure, but my behavior remained consistent to previous years. 

Truth- I have stretched myself and talked to various people that I usually wouldn't. The constant difficulty is relating to what the surrounding people talk about. Relationships with the opposite gender, girls and boys being jerks to others, etc... I've hidden myself from those battlefields that would unnecessarily take a toll on my emotions. Discussing the topics that have high ratings in the daily environment in which I'm in are difficult to participate in if I don't experience them. Relating with them is a challenge so silence is the zone where I often make an appearance.

I began justifying my behavior. This assumption of his wasn't accurate in the whole. It did have some truth, which may have been what concerned me the most. 

I brought this event to the knowledge of my dad and asked what his personality was like when he was my age. He replied. "I was quiet, but people knew that when I spoke up I'd usually have something wise to say." He told me the simplest of facts- that he'd incorporate purpose in to his speech- had a significant impact.

People occasionally make the silliest accusations. Some may have a hint of accuracy, but it can't disclaim the value of what/who the assumption is directed to. My peer (now new acquaintance(?)) did/does consider me the silenced, (maybe) sensitive girl. But I'm NOT. His words don't withhold the power to strip me from the title of being God's treasure and becoming who I am by His mighty design.

 The Lord counted all of the hairs on my head, claims that I am more valuable than a sparrow, calls me more precious than rubies, His daughter, His child, and declares this truth over my life: You are the youngest of five kids. You have trouble being teachable. You are enchanted by your older siblings growing up and are enticed by the love stories that are unfolding within your household. You enjoy coffee, writing, reading, the rain, frolicking, listening to music, have limited musical talent, yet love it to the fullest. You fear spiders, the dark and change. You are a daughter who is excited for the future and have high aspirations that vary from each of your siblings. You find joy in using large words that nobody can comprehend, and desire to be somebody of significance. You have difficulty taming your happiness. You are created by me, and for me. Know that I am with you! It is I who gives you boldness when appropriate and love the way that I handcrafted you. Embrace originality and know that nobody can accurately tell my precious daughter who she is under my mighty name, in my precious sight!

My response to these truths: "OH YEAH!!!" 

Increasing Value

Love: an admirable enchantment. It rattles man's heart; intertwining purpose into life's story- ultimately increasing its value/meaning. Defying living from mere existence.
It is of great significance yet the purpose of it has been disregarded. Each generation has disclaimed the importance of love. The acts of displaying the emotion have decreased. Hinting towards the thought of love towards a stranger, friend, or family member seems irrelevant occasionally, because...
The definition has been abused. It's a word that is spoken frequently and reflected rarely with the purest of hearts. Love is a passion! Relationships lack passion- an appropriate statement of truth. Determination would weave it's way back into broken marriages, friendships would be mended before death, and siblings would cease to quarrel if adoration would be fearlessly portrayed by individuals.
To the world's misfortune, the importance of this has plummeted to the earth's core. Generations have to aspire to live it out; only then will it be released from the dirty darkness that's held it captive. It's imprisonment has strained love's ability to impact the world powerfully.
A warrior stance; persistently fighting for its appearance will magnify the treasure that love is. Surrendering to the ways of this world does not produce an enduring supply of satisfaction. Love's abiding qualaties: patient, kind, not boastful or proud....(1 cotinthisns 13:4)
John 15:13 There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friend.
The movies that I am most intrigued with are those that reflect the truest characteristics of love to the fullest(Ex: Second Hand Lions, The Chronichles of Narnia, The Lost Valentine, Pride and Prejudice, etc...). There's a trailer that I viewed while at the theater. It comes out in February. A chick flick it may be, but I love the warrior stance the husband takes in this upcoming film. It portrays what love is and defies societies standards/efforts of battling to maintain a strong and sturdy relationship with another.
Love is a sustaining emotion that overrules the actions of people. It is something to fight for and will always remain in existence, whether or not its relevance is embraced.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELg843Ot9CQ

Freedom Reigns

Jason Upton is an artist who is a fearless prayer warrior. He talks with the Lord shamelessly in each song that he sings. This magnificent melody, "Freedom Reigns", invites the Lord's presence.
Silence, I do believe will encompass you. The melodious piece resounding within the environment that you're in will be enthralling. Every word in which Jason speaks/prays/sings will not lack enticement....God's captivating company will become oh so evident as the music plays!
Once you've listened to Jason Upton, listen to the next song. After inviting Jesus to spend some time with you, why refrain from dancing with him?!  It's not a Christian/worship song, but it prevents one from sitting down, so frisk about fearlessly and merrily.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ad3bMvRyT9U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILtDs0MmRHE

Seeking Serenity in the Stars

The only destination where I feel completely safe to lay outside during the night in solitude- my grandpa's ranch.
Phil Wickham's "You're Beautiful" was resounding in the background as my dad and I became entranced at the star-filled sky. Due to the fact that we're up in the mountains, however, chilly weather claimed victory over our actions and we escaped to seek the warmth that's discovered indoors.
My ultimate goal before leaving is to sit out there alone and be able to have my worship playlist on shuffle. Ideally, with God-given strength, I'd be outdoors for an extended length of time. My peppermint flavored coffee with a smidgen of 1/2 & 1/2 would be tucked in the palm of my hands; the steaming heat exuding from the mug would increase my ability to remain outside for a tad longer.
Having the capability of comfortably admiring the captivating artistry of God is what I'm preparing myself for- physically, mentally and spiritually. His craftsmanship is unfathomably remarkable.
God's artwork never ceases to withdraw an abundance of peace and serenity. This is what I aspire to chase. His calming presence is being sought after. I- His beloved daughter- am in desperate pursuit of discovering His companionship in a new setting.
Taking advantage of His enduring omnipresence is a fulfilling pursuit to partake in. Jesus was crucified so that we- His children may encounter a sustaining, and continually renewing relationship with Him. Accepting the gift enables one to experience God's magnificent self completely- ultimately providing an everlasting supply of restoration, rejuvenation and revival in each individual's heart.

Dear Father, I love you to pieces. I'm seeking after you, and am excited to date you in a new location. Lord, meet me where I'm at. Don't withhold your mighty self from me. Satisfy my every need at your will as you see best. Jesus, encountering you and discovering everlasting satisfaction in your company is what I'm pursuing.
Lord, I'm asking for strength, clarity of speech, patience, love, and an open heart. God, give me the uncontrollable ability to pour my whole self out to you. I pray for a diligence in listening to you as well. Tomorrow, and for the rest of the weekend I pray for clear night skies. Unleash the alluring beauty, and paint a masterpiece! Place within me a spirit of admiration for your wondrous workmanship. I pray for abiding peace to be unraveled in your company reflecting past and present times of encountering you.
I love you Jesus! Thank you for your unfathomable, enduring love and abounding grace.
-Love your daughter and bride Emily Ann

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGlTzH9xkXQ                  -'You'er Beautiful"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfBjUauVenc&ob=av2e        -"Starry Night"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsx3zWfw41s                -"Come Up Here"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNjKLz380j8        -"Where We Belong"

Prayer; the power of it is rarely fully recognized. The effectiveness of it can never be entirely comprehended. Its impact on the world is unfathomable.   

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SiZmmkuNLI 

Influence, when not abused, can ignite the change that a generation aspires to produce. Growth blossoms and knowledge is enhanced when leadership is valued and respected. If one is unsatisfied with the direction that a person or large group of folks are heading- whether younger or older- then act prudently to display the behavior that an individual desires to be reflected back at them.

One of my brothers is married and has two children. This is his youngest son, Peyton. When my nephews and potential future nieces mature my desire is to have them recollect "Auntie Em; the auntie who taught me about Jesus!" I started teaching him these phrases about a year ago...

Peace In His Abiding Presence

Incomprehensible peace! Experiencing such a thing is unexplainably delightful. Thank you Jesus for providing this for the world! Amen.
This is the best "intense" worship leader that I know of, aside from the band,Hillsong/Hillsong United. His music is nothing short of stupendous. The few that I chose have to do with experiencing intimacy with Jesus. Some other songs to look up would be "Come Up Here" and "I will Wait".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBpXhWwVCYU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okTKMaVrSYY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgMY1Vusd0I

Personal Quotes

Scavenging the internet for quotes from various writers is a fascinating activity to partake in. While searching for sayings by various influential authors, inspiration made an appearance. I started jotting down sentences that folks would find if I were one of those people.

Alluring beauty claims victory over the late morning sky as the sun rises. The once insipid green transforms to vibrant colors. Autumns appearance magnifies the captivating artistry of God.

Mirth unravels rapidly during the holiday season. "Smile and be merry!" as quoted/written from a friend...it's a simple action that is highly contagious

Accountability orchestrates growth in an individual. It's a powerful thing!

Fog and frost, and morning sunshine! Steaming hot coffee and a wintery walk. These are a few of my favorite things!

Praise Jesus for precious moments that are sturdily woven together. The quality of the individual memories become bound together creating a book. It births reoccurring spurts of joy as cherished times relapse within one's mind. The value of the treasured remembrances increase as the alterations in a persons life gradually become greater.

When the passions and desires of your heart begin to align with an amazing career its difficult not to have a cheerful countenance. The determining factor is not settled upon the various levels of easiness, or difficulty, but by the exceedingly abundant spurts of joy that you'll find in continuing the profession as the years progress.

What happens when there's a storm? You dance merrily through it having the faith that it'll soon pass. Someone is bound to join you and make you smile more than you ever thought possible. The joy knowing that there's another along side you will become exceedingly overwhelming!

Knee high boots (for men), long dresses, line dances, and sword fighting; 25% of these things have weaved their way back into modern day society. The question that remains is: When will the other 75% do the same? Oh time how I loathe thee; however I must learn to abide.

Love; a regard for another that will always be admirable, and enchanting.

Hosea 2:16, 19-20 -dear Jesus please alter our perception of you. I pray that we will not become a people who lack acceptance of your limitless abilities to satisfy us entirely! Give us a pure, and enchanting vision of you that will endure forever. Thank you for never ceasing to delight in calling us yours.


Vigorously writing down every word that comes to mind. It's fascinating to identify each individual thought and scribble them frantically on to paper. The untamed writer that lurks within is unleashed!

Everyone needs a good frolic and the occasional happy jump. They are activities that display a joyous heart. It's a clever way of unleashing the overwhelming mirth that lurks within. Skip your sorrows shamelessly away, and leap to reveal a jubilant spirit. Others will watch gleefully, and some will fearlessly accompany you. 

Disney: igniting deep thought in the wee hours of the night since the early 1900's. There was but one man who didn't need to break out his sword, and revolt in order to conquer the enemy. His life on earth was stripped away, yet He remains alive. John 3:16-17; Dear Jesus, thank you for being compelled by love to lay down your whole life in order to save mine!

Don't capitulate to the overwhelming hankering to repose. The sensation may linger into bed with you, but refrain from surrendering into such an appealing temptation until you are fully armed to encounter the bountiful thoughts will be unleashed in your dreams. Your armor: a handy dandy journal, and a quill (yes...) to ensnare the thoughts that lurk in the dark on to paper.

Mirth is unleashed as one listens to good music. This is one of those songs when an individual experiences silence encompassing oneself as the melodious sound of the song drifts throughout the room.

Yes, God you make me happy enough to cry. Thank you for making my life, and not just my day. You are too good. You always remain with us always, LORD. I praise you for that overwhelming fact. Prepare our hearts for the days to come, and give incomprehensible strength to persevere through in impending challenges that may arise. Amen.

Unexplainable joy that cannot be contained within comes from none other but Jesus! Such mirth is too exhilarating to tame on a leash. It exudes uncontrollable spurts of mere frolicking.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rELYdtvc8U8&feature=related

Hahaha! Ok, so a few weeks back I posted a song by Jimmy Needham. The song was called "If I Ever Needed Grace". Due to the fact that it's not even on a CD yet, all I had was my own personal recording, which I have now recognized only enabled perhaps a whopping one reader to watch.
Sorry!
I finally discovered a video that has his song playing in the background though. If you so desire, listen to the song as Jimmy talks in the video.

The Reappearance of Joy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbpJ2FeeJgw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ykg92cygID8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjOAh3sSPPY

The most thrilling part of trudging through difficult times is encountering a joyous valley. When a person has weakness flowing through their veins and exhaustion hovering over them and can still scavenge about their spirit to discover the unbelievable ability to dance amidst the pain, no one is able to compose a rebuttal concerning the lack of God's existence in the individual's life.
God's relevance/existence beams most brightly in the darkest of circumstances. His knowledge surpasses that of any being; he knows exactly what His treasures desire and will not withhold the most essential things from them. God is the ultimate provider! He has the strength to crush any army of sorrow that encompasses His beloved children. It is in His mighty name alone that people are able to continue fighting in the most brutal of emotional/spiritual battles.
The first two links are the ones that I've been dancing to and singing along with in the car. I've been frolicking about my kitchen in the wee hours of the night and jamming out to the most cheesiest of songs. Why? The LORD?!!!! David's had similar experiences, so why shouldn't I? In the most troubling situations  the most mirthful experience to partake in is unexplainably frisking about the room. Yes God! You are with me.

Dear Father,
YOU ARE CRAZY GOOD! I love you to pieces, and thank you for knowing the inner parts of me. I praise you for listening to the simplest of prayers; for being well aware of what I need most (aside from your presence), and giving me just that. Thank you for reviving within me the uncontrollable sensation to dance. You are nothing short of marvelous! Don't you ever change, Jesus! :)
-Love your daughter and bride Emily Ann

P.S. the third link isn't one that I've been listening to a lot this week, but it definitely awakens the yearning to groove. It may even produce a smile. Yeeeees...the guy who is singing is white, witty and wonderful. Don't deny the crafty workmanship of the Lord- his artistry is exhibited to the fullest in this man's voice!

A Psalm- My personal cry to the Lord...His response!

Dear God,
 I pray over the next two weeks. Give me strength for speaking and clarity of speech. God, provide me with peace. I give you my heart. God, I'm all yours and I ask, God, that you will help me focus directly on you.
God, I want to pour my heart out to you. I hope and pray that I'll be able to trust in you enough to open up to you, Lord! Give me the ability to trust in you- that you will not leave me. God, give me peace for the future. I NEED you! God, I need you! GOD I NEED YOU, GOD I NEED YOU! I NEED my father, my protector, my husband, my confidant, my refuge, my comfort, my peace, my security. God, I NEED YOU! Be my security- keep me safe. Be my peace- help me not to fret over future events. God, be my refuge. Be my father- protect me from the trouble of this world- spiritually and emotionally. Be my husband. I pray that I'll be able to trust fully in you, Lord so that I won't relent in keeping all of my thoughts and feelings from you. Be my inspiration, God. I WANT to know what to write. I WANT to know what I stand for in this world. I WANT to know what to take photos of for photography. I WANT to be able to grasp the great plans that you have for my future. Be my calm! God, be my CALM.
I want to stop worrying about the events that will play out. I want to be fully calm and discover abiding peace in your enduring presence.
God, you are ALL MINE. You give me your whole self; unconditional love, abounding grace and all. I don't understand everything, but I pray that I'll be able to open up my whole heart to you God...
-Love your daughter and bride, Emily Ann

Dear Emily Ann
I am with you! I am with you. You are my daughter and I stand firmly on my word that says I have never abandoned you (John 14:16, Hebrews 13:5). I will remain with you always. That said, Emily Ann- my beloved daughter, I have provided for you and stored within you all that you have asked. You have been given everything that is necessary to accomplish anything. You want peace, my daughter I've given it to you and it's in abundant supply.
I've given it to you. I've planted a spirit of peace within you for the funeral, for the future- growing up. Emily Ann, I am with you. That overwhelming fact should give you incomprehensible peace. Why don't you find joy and peace in my truth? Emily Ann, you have been protected by me since birth. I have crazy plans for your future. All of these situations that you've had to experience at early ages was to begin an early maturity within you. If your sister had never left, and if your mom had never gotten cancer and if your Nana hadn't passed away and if your Grandma hadn't come home TO BE WITH ME then you would not be where you are right now.
You need to trust that I am with you. Your trials and challenges and changes have not ceased, but I will ALWAYS remain with you. I tell you this, Emily Ann. I am your father. I am your husband. I am your confidant. I am your everything. Know that in all that happens; all of the events that unfold are all to make you a stronger warrior for my kingdom. Christina is coming home. Know that she will be busy, but your sister is returning. You WILL see your sister, Mary. I KNOW what is best for my child- my daughter-my bride- you- Emily Ann Bachand.
Why do you question me? Out of everything that you've gone through what has given you the ability to say that I am not with you? I have always proven faithful to you. Don't forget that in all the "crap" that I am WITH YOU. I have given you the ability to conquer any army, to draw a bronze bow, and scale any wall (2 Samuel 22:30-37, Psalm 18:28 & 36). It is through my mighty name that these are given to you- my beloved daughter- my treasure- my lovely girl- my masterpiece, I am with you.
-Love your Father up in Heaven

Grandma!

 This post is dedicated to my beloved grandma. Her name was Verna Eubank :) Born on August 23, 1928, and passed away November 28, 2011.
Yesterday was crazy! My mama phoned me while I was in the midst of shooting a roll of film for my upcoming photography class. She sent me a message and called to tell me that I needed to take her to the airport pronto. Her mom wouldn't make it past the today (which was yesterday).
While in the car, she was frantically calling her brothers and father. Her desire was to make it there before her mom met Jesus. She made it there about an hour late...

There's a big age gap between my older siblings and I. They would have more stories to share and memories to store. I loved her to pieces. She was a spunky, blue-eyed brunette. My brothers and sister may have the majority of favorite  treasured times tucked in their hearts, but I have her looks. Each of my brothers and sister are green/hazel eyed brown haired beauties, but oh no, not me!!! I have her blue eyes..and fine dark hair like the rest of my siblings. I still have her eyes though, right???
My grandma was sassy and I loved her to pieces.

Dear Jesus, please give her a bouquet of balloons from my stash up there. I pray for peace over each of my family members. Clothe my mom with strength, and keep her safe during her travels. Allow your comfort to encompass us. Prepare our hearts for what is to come.
-Love your daughter, Emily Ann Bachand
Dear Grandma, have a joyous time frolicking with Jesus.

Simply an observation: Emotional responses vary depending upon the event that takes place. It's interesting to discover the reaction one exposes after the unwrapping of an incomprehensible and seemingly unbearable happening. How a person reacts may alter despite the fact that the occurrence may scrounger up the same ending...
Here is some more music to add to your playlist. The facebook link is a new song by Jimmy Needham. He introduced it at a concert I attended a few weeks ago and so the melodious tune is just a recording. It lasts for about a minute. This newly composed piece, "If I Ever Needed Grace" will be released on his next album (coming out in March???) and so there is no full version of it (sorry). I had to post my recording of the song basically since I couldn't discover any others. The link for youtube will point you directly towards a song that never ceases to be loved by me.  Hillsong United, baby! One of the most marvelous worship bands. Have a joyous time listening to them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGKLkQTp3iM

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002536970092#!/photo.php?v=176704632424101&set=vb.100002536970092&type=2&theater

 Thank you for making my life and not just my day. You are too good. You always remain with us LORD. I praise you for that overwhelming fact. Prepare our hearts for the days to come and give each individual  incomprehensible strength to persevere through any impending challenges that may arise. Amen!

Worship; The Unraveling of Mirth

What do I enjoy most about attending church? The worship! That's what triggers my emotional response to the occurrences of a day. It is in song that He appears most vividly to me. During melodious worship I learn what it's like to serve Him to the fullest on a daily basis throughout the week. By encountering God in an intimate and private setting I'll be able to recognize what it's like to worship Him through my thoughts, actions and speech while in public. I have NO musical talent yet my love for music/worship is great. 
Perhaps the mirth that is unraveled in the midst of worship contributes to my lack of resistance towards posting a wondrous song. All of this to introduce a newly beloved melody... Here's another tune by Shawn McDonald, my friend. He's singing, "Here I Am", so enjoy this tune; "Smile and be merry!" (quoted/written by a friend) as the song plays wherever you may be.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOZBuQsBw5M 

 

Psalm 66:4

 Everything on earth will worship you; they will sing your praises, shouting your name in glorious songs.”

Psalm 89:15
Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord.

Psalm 95:6
Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker,

Psalm 100:2
Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.

Romans 12:1
[ A Living Sacrifice to God ] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.

This is a definition...not a scripture from the Bible (just clarifying) :)

wor·ship

 /ˈwɜrʃɪp/ Show Spelled [wur-ship] Show IPA noun, verb, -shiped, -ship·ing or ( especially British ) -shipped, -ship·ping.

noun

1. reverent honor and homage paid to God or a sacred personage, or to any object regarded as sacred.

2. formal or ceremonious rendering of such honor and homage: They attended worship this morning.

3. adoring reverence or regard: excessive worship of business success.

4. the object of adoring reverence or regard.

5. ( initial capital letter ) British . a title of honor used in addressing or mentioning certain magistrates and others of high rank or station (usually preceded by Your, His,  or Her ).

verb (used with object)

6. to render religious reverence and homage to.

7. to feel an adoring reverence or regard for (any person or thing).

Music; it can do a lot...

I know that blogs are used for writing, but sometimes your feelings can be unraveled in the lyrics of a song. Every now and then listening to melodious piece can determine your mood. My all time favorite artist is Jimmy Needham. I discovered him singing this cheerful song. It made me happy. So here's a song that enhanced my mirthful spirit. It may even revive a yearning to shamelessly dance. Happy Thanksgiving!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXC0X5UND8M

Experiencing to Fullest

The second link will lead you to "Open Me" sung by Shawn McDonald (sorry it's repeated). The first link plays a song by Jesus Culture, called "Dance With Me" (the first link). It paints an intimate setting that one can experience with God. You should listen to these before, during or after you read this post.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hymsg5IfXU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2fEZnLu9M0

Perhaps the reason for experiencing God’s comforting presence for only a moment is due to the fact that I come with limited expectations. It’s not a sustaining feeling because I come asking to receive the peace that is unraveled in his abiding company. He’s defined as a husband too, yet I’ve given up pursuit of that characteristic. It’s a personality that frees an entirely new side of Him.

I’ve been viewing him only as a daddy; seeking refuge in His expanding arms. I haven’t confided entirely in Him. Swarming thoughts are rarely unleashed in our conversations. I set my worries aside; I think of them, but rarely speak of them out loud. Praying over other situations and for various friends and family members become my priority as we talk. I’ve neglected to reveal my personal thoughts and emotions to Him verbally until they’ve overwhelmed me. My perspective puts limitations on who God really is and all that He is capable of doing.

There are numerous passages in the Bible when God is illustrated as our Father. Each of us- you and I, are painted as his children. A child is usually discovered in the protective embrace of a father. A dad oversees the actions of his beloved children, protects, comforts, and disciplines each of them accordingly. These traits are revealed to be of God throughout the scriptures. In Hosea a new perspective is scrounged up. His love is also displayed in a manner that is similar to that of a husband’s.

This love is portrayed through “faithfulness” and “compassion”. When someone gets married his or her significant other becomes his or her confidant. The pair gradually reach an intimate level of communication; they confide in each other; a characteristic of God’s (a husband) that I’ve yet to take advantage of.

The last song ignited a vision beaming with clarity. Chasing after God’s presence is always an important quest to partake in. Once He’s discovered, embracing the comfort that exudes in his mighty company is a desire that claims victory over my actions. Surrendering any saddening discoveries, or joys of mine will provide an opening for the unwrapping of long lasting fulfillment. By capitulating my entire self to Him; allowing Him to “open me”; my eyes, ears, mind, and heart, I’ll be able to experience His ability to provide me with everything to the fullest.

Romans 8:14-19 “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, ‘Abba, Father’. For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.”

Galatians 4:6 “And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, ‘Abba, Father’. Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.”

Hosea 2:16 & 19-20 “ ‘When that day comes,’ says the LORD, ‘you will call me ‘my husband’ instead of ‘my master’… “I will make you my wife forever, showing you righteousness and justice, unfailing love and compassion. I will be faithful to you and make you mine, and you will finally know me as the LORD.”

Isaiah 54:5-6 “For your Creator will be your husband; the LORD of Heaven’s Armies is his name! He is your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, the God of all the earth. For the LORD has called you back from your grief- as though you were a young wife abandoned by her husband,’ says your God”

Shawn Mcdonald: Open Me lyrics
Would You open up eyes, so I can see
Would You open up my ears, so I can hear
Would You open up my mind, so I can know
Would You open up my heart, so could love You more
I want to serve You, my God
I want to give everything
I want to serve You, my King, yeah
I want to serve You, my Lord
I want to give You everything, yeah
Here I am with my arms open wide
Asking for You to come up, up inside
Won't You make me new, won't You make me true
Jesus, won't You make me like You, oh
Will You touch my eyes so I can see
Will You touch my ears so I can hear
Will You touch my mind so I can know
Will You touch my heart so I can love You more
Won't You open me
Won't You open me, open me
Won't You open me, open me
Won't You open me, open me
Won't You open me, open me

Click on the link and listen to the song. This came on while I was doing my devotions the other day. I had purchased it just moments before without listening to it fully. It opened up my eyes, and may have produced some tears...I was able to recognize some personal things in my relationship with God. I'll save my discoveries for perhaps my next post. For now, just listen to the music and hopefully the meaning will penetrate your heart as it did mine.  
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2fEZnLu9M0

Joyous Delight

Unexplainable joy that cannot be contained within comes from none other but Jesus! It exudes uncontrollable spurts of mere frolicking. Experiencing incomprehensible eruptions of jubilance must be exuded through actions and/or laughter. When a person soaks up love that God drenches them with in various ways there can be sporadic outbursts of joy. Events, conversations and readings are contributing factors to a person’s emotional response to all of the occurrences that consist of a single day. Occasionally the reasoning for the freeing of a happy heart is due to His magnificent presence that dwells within His children. 

There are random moments when an unexplainable seed of mirth springs up in the depths of my heart. My hands will sometimes quiver as I drive 8-) .... Butterflies begin to swarm through the inner parts of me. The hearts beating rate increases significantly and my face gradually tires from smiling for no purposeful cause. It will come to the point where my body is resistant towards sitting still. Pulling over becomes a necessity in order to remain alive and the happiness must be displayed in a shameless skip. 

Everyone needs a good frolic and the occasional happy jump. They are activities that display a joyous heart. It's a clever way of unleashing the overwhelming mirth that lurks within. 

I firmly believe that these sporadic outbursts of joy display God's apparent existence in our lives- His children. Understandable circumstances that revive tamed emotions aren’t always His nature. When His presence becomes distinct, the response of the person reaches unexplainable heights. The freeing reaction is frequently examined by others and influences their behavior. Perspectives of God's infinite ability to supply us with all that is desired may alter too. He's capable of equipping a child with a cheerful countenance. This reflects the bountiful elation that He discovers in showering us with various spurts of happiness; He loves to watch His people overcome with mirth.

Skipping one’s sorrows shamelessly away, and leaping reveals a jubilant spirit. God will grin at the uniquely spontaneous explosions of joy. Others will watch gleefully and some will fearlessly accompany you.

Habakkuk 3:18-19 I will rejoice in the God of my salvation! Yahweh my LORD is my strength; He makes my feet like those of a deer and enables me to walk on mountain heights!

Psalm 33:21-22 In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.

1 Samuel 18:6 They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals.

Psalm 65:8 Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy.

Jeremiah 15:16 When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name.

Psalm 37:23
 The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.

Isaiah 62:4
 Never again will you be called “The Forsaken City” or “The Desolate Land.” Your new name will be “The City of God’s Delight” and “The Bride of God,” for the Lord delights in you and will claim you as his bride.