Years ago, the company where my husband worked outsourced his facility and he was laid off. He searched for new employment for 448 long, long, long days. When work finally came, we gathered up two weeks worth of clothes, my laptop, our dog and headed north to Idaho. Ten months later we were still waiting for our Texas house to sell.

Our temporary apartment was a blessing, but I missed my privacy. I missed a quiet room where I could shut the door and spend time writing and talking with God. I missed my books. I missed my stuff. I wanted a couch that didn’t feel like it was stuffed with prairie dog pelts. I wanted things to be different, and I wanted to be settled. Yes, the pity party had hit with complete abandon, and the whine mode clung to my shoulders like a wet rag, and a wet whining Buffaloe is not a pretty picture.

With my million complaints, I tromped to the kitchen and poured a cup of coffee. Leaning against the counter, I pondered what really was behind my frustrations. Deep in my soul, I wondered if I was accomplishing what God wanted me to accomplish?

Why was I so unsettled? And why didn’t I feel like God was with me?

Then, in my soul, the still small voice whispered, “I’m always here.”

Tears fell as all my complaints sloughed off and fell in a heap to the floor.

I should have known God would never leave.

During difficulties, unwanted life changes, and the craziness of the day, it’s easy to allow the mind to whirl with frustrations, whines, and complaints. And, far too easy to wonder in hardships if something is missing, something that keeps us from feeling God is near.

Whining and complaining wasn’t the answer for my unsettled soul. However, remembering God’s truth, the truth that He will never leave or forsake us. The truth is that Jesus said, “I am with you always even to the end of the age.” The truth is that God’s love is unfailing.

The truth of any situation is found in God’s truth.

You may feel as though you are all alone. Nothing could be further from the truth. God’s promises of His presence, His unfailing love, comfort, hope, and peace abound throughout His word. God’s hope, His presence, His love, is with you, even to the end of the age.

Thank You, Father, that You promise never to leave or forsake us. Thank You for loving me even when I’m a whining mess. Thank You that nothing is impossible for You. Help me take my eyes off anything that takes my focus away from You. Quiet my soul to hear Your voice and stand firm in Your loving Truth that You are always here.

“Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.” ~ Psalm 42:5 (NASB)

“…the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love.” ~ Psalm 33:18 (NIV)

“And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV)

“…Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” ~ Isaiah 43:1-3 (NASB)

“… I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” ~ Matthew 28:20 (NASB)

(Emphasis added on scripture)

From Present in His Presence by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3LBKDLZ

“Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth (Psalm 54:2). Heavenly Father, You are the God who sees (Genesis 16:13). You are the God who hears (Psalm 4:3). You are the God who is faithful to the generations of the righteous (Psalm 100:5). Oh, God I ask for Your mercy and kindness to be poured out on our children, their children, our families, and beyond (Psalm 112:1-2).

God please open the eyes of the ones who have run from You. Open the eyes of the wayward that they will find You, for You are The Way. Open their ears to hear You.

Father, I pray for Your spirit of wisdom, revelation, and knowledge may be poured out on them. I pray that the eyes of their heart may be enlightened so that they will know the hope of Your calling and the riches of the glory of Your inheritance, and the surpassing greatness of Your power toward those who believe (Ephesians 1:17-19).

Jesus, You are the Son of Man who came to seek and save that which was lost (Luke 19:10). Save them, Lord.

God, You search for the lost sheep and joyfully bring them home. You search for that which was lost and rejoice when found. Oh Father, joyfully bring home my lost loved one (Luke 15:3-9).

Thank You, Lord that You hear my voice and my cry (Psalm 116:1), Psalm 34:17). Thank You that nothing is impossible for You! (Luke 1:37). Thank You that one day we will rejoice along with the angels when our loved ones come home (Luke 15:10).

I ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ, who is my Savior. Amen.

“Our loved ones may spurn our appeals, reject our message, oppose our arguments, despise our persons—but they are helpless against our prayers.” ~ J. Sidlow Baxter

“God brings about remarkable change in the world in response to the prayers of His people.” ~ David Platt 

https://lisabuffaloe.com

God how I praise You. You are holy, kind, compassionate, gracious, loving, and merciful. Thank You that You love me with an everlasting love and have drawn me with loving-kindness (Jeremiah 31:3). You created my inmost being and knit me together in my mother’s womb. (Psalm 139:13). You know the numbers of hair on my head and You have engraved me on the palms of Your hands (Luke 12:7, Isaiah 49:16).

Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet Your unfailing love for me will not be shaken nor Your covenant of peace be removed, says the LORD, who has compassion on me (Isaiah 54:10). You are with me and are mighty to save. You take great delight in me; You will quiet me with Your love and rejoice over me with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17). You will make known to me the path of life and in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever (Psalm 16:11).

You, God, are gracious and righteous and full of compassion (Psalm 116:5).You take delight in me; and crown the humble with salvation (Psalm 149:4). In Your unfailing love You will lead me. In Your strength You will guide me to Your holy dwelling (Exodus 15:13). For Your eyes search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to You (2 Chronicles 16:9a).

You know the plans You have for me, plans to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future. When I call upon You and come and pray to You, You will listen to me. I will seek You and find You when I seek You with all my heart (Jeremiah 29:11-13). Before I call You will answer; while I am still speaking You will hear (Isaiah 65:24).

Your unfailing love is priceless and we find refuge in the shadow of Your wings. (Psalm 36:7) You are love (1 John 4:16). And Your perfect love is patient, kind, does not envy, does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it’s not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Your love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8).

Thank You, God, that “You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast, that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character, because he trusts and takes refuge in You with hope and confident expectation.” For the Lord gives unyielding and impenetrable strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace (Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 29:11).

You so greatly loved and dearly prized the world, that You even gave Your One and only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him as Savior will not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16). Jesus You invite, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person and they with Me” (Revelation 3:20). You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and no one comes to the Father except through You (John 14:6). Thank You, Jesus, for Your sacrifice in place of my sins so that I can be saved and have an abundant life. (John 10:10). Therefore, My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ and my heart responds, ‘LORD, I am coming’ (Psalm 27:8).

Thank You, Jesus that in You I have perfect peace and confidence. In the world there are tribulations, trials, distress, and frustration; but I can be of good cheer, take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted. For You have overcome the world, deprived it of power to harm me and have conquered it for us (John 16:33).

Jesus, thank You that You are with me always, remaining with me perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20b). You will give me rest. You will ease and relieve and refresh my soul. You give Your perfect peace. Therefore, I don’t need to let my heart be troubled, nor afraid. Your perfect peace will calm me in every circumstance and give me courage and strength for every challenge (Matthew 11:28, John 14:27).

Therefore, I don’t need to be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything, every circumstance and situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, I will continue to make my specific requests known to God. And the peace of God, that peace which reassures the heart, that peace, which transcends all understanding will stand guard over my heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

Thank You, Jesus, that You sit at the right hand of God interceding for me. And nothing will separate me from Your love – not tribulation, or trouble, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate me from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus my Lord (Romans 8:34-35, 38-39).

Therefore, “In peace and with a tranquil heart I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety and confident trust” (Psalm 4:8).Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant me His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes (2 Thessalonians 3:16).

Praise You, God. I bring this prayer to You in the name of Jesus Christ, Your precious Son and my Savior. Amen.

The post, Praising prayer for peace, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

I’ve posted this before, but with all that’s going on in the world and the difficulties that many face, I thought perhaps someone needed to read the following verses. If you are able, please read the verses out loud. When we pray and speak scripture, there is power!

At four a.m., from a sound sleep, I heard in my spirit, “Open your eyes.” In the darkness of our room, I could see a black cloud moving toward my side of the bed, toward me.

I had no fear, just watched, then the Lord spoke in my soul…The enemy will come like a flood. Resist. Stand firm. I will be with you.

As I prayed, pondered and listened, more was given during those early morning hours. Some of the prayer time is personal, but other things I think will be helpful for more than just me. At first I wasn’t sure if I should share the long list of Bible verses, but so many friends mentioned they too are in the midst of a battle and need prayer and scripture help.

The verses I found are in relation to the hours I spent with the Lord. Some of the things He spoke into my spirit I believe apply to us all. Nothing is impossible for God. Be strong (in God’s strength). I will be with you. Nothing is impossible for God. The enemy means to destroy you, I will use it to free you. To set you free. (I thought of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were thrown in the blazing fire, but nothing was burnt off them except the ropes that bound them.) Hold on to Me. No fear. Do not be afraid. Do not worry or let your heart be troubled. I will give you treasures in the darkness. Peace like a river.  Stay in My Word. The truth will set you free. 

The battle plan — #1 Stay close to God. #2 Stay in His Word. His truth will set us free. 

Whatever battle you face, the Lord has given you His words to help you battle, get through, and be victorious. Make notes, spend time with God, write out what you are facing, pray and ask God for His truth to help you. Use your Bible, and if you have the internet (or smart phone), use of the Bible applications to search based on word or phrases. God’s truth will feed your soul and will set you free.

The verses you find below are ones I found for my specific battle. God’s Word is a light to our path, and whatever darkness we face, His light will shine to give us guidance, help, and wisdom.

As you read through, prayerfully ask the Lord to highlight the Bible verses to help in your journey. God never leaves us alone to fight our battles, and He is all-powerful for our every need.

For my battle, the first scriptures that came to mind pertains to the Israelites sending out their praise and worship team before them and God routing the enemy. “When they began singing and praising, the Lord set ambushes against the sons of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; so they were routed.” ~ 2 Chronicles 20:22 (NASB) I will praise the Lord and watch the Lord rout the enemy!

Also, I am safe forever in God’s mighty, All-powerful hand. “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” ~ John 10:28-30 (NIV)

“Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.” ~ Luke 6:47-48 (NASB)

“Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” ~ James 4:7 (NASB)

“I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden wealth of secret places, so that you may know that it is I, The Lord, the God of Israel, who calls you by your name.” ~ Isaiah 45:3 (NASB)

“For thus says the Lord, ‘Behold, I extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream; and you will be nursed, you will be carried on the hip and fondled on the knees.’” ~ Isaiah 66:12 (NASB)

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” ~ John 14:27 (NASB)

“So shall they fear The name of the Lord from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun; when the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” ~ Isaiah 59:19 (NKJV)

“He sent from above, He took me, He drew me out of many waters.” ~ 2 Samuel 22:17 (NKJV)

“The Lord said: I will certainly set you free and care for you. I will certainly intercede for you in a time of trouble, in your time of distress, with the enemy.” ~ Jeremiah 15:11 (HCSB)

“You will free me from the net that is secretly set for me, for You are my refuge.” ~ Psalm 31:4 (HCSB)

“You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” ~ John 8:32 (HCSB)

“For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment.” ~ Luke 1:37 (AMPC)

“… now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” ~ Isaiah 43:1-3 (NASB)

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” ~ Ephesians 6:11-16 (NASB)

“Now behold, I have made you today as a fortified city and as a pillar of iron and as walls of bronze against the whole land, to the kings of Judah, to its princes, to its priests and to the people of the land.” ~ Jeremiah 1:18 (NASB)

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28 (NASB)

“Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” ~ 1 Corinthians 16:13 (NASB)

“Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, to love the Lord your God and walk in all His ways and keep His commandments and hold fast to Him and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” ~ Joshua 22:5 (NASB)

“But the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance.” ~ Luke 8:15 (NASB)

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” ~ Deuteronomy 31:6 (NASB)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9 (NASB)

“Be strong and courageous, do not fear or be dismayed because of the king of Assyria nor because of all the horde that is with him; for the one with us is greater than the one with him. With him is only an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles…” ~ 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 (NASB)

“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way. When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds his hand.” ~ Psalm 37:23-24 (NASB)

“You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.” ~ Psalm 32:7 (NKJV)

“The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms; and He drove out the enemy from before you, and said, ‘Destroy!’” ~ Deuteronomy 33:27 (NASB)

“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their vindication is from Me, declares the Lord.” ~ Isaiah 54:17 (NASB)

“For by You I run through a troop; by my God I leap over a wall. As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried. He is a Shield to all those who trust and take refuge in Him. For who is God but the Lord? And who is a Rock except our God?” ~ 2 Samuel 22:30-32 (AMPC)

“He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with Him); He is a shield to those who walk uprightly and in integrity, that He may guard the paths of justice; yes, He preserves the way of His saints.” ~ Proverbs 2:7-8 (AMPC)

“For the Lord loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked shall be cut off.” ~ Psalm 37:28 (NKJV)

“The Lord watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.” ~ Psalm 145:20 (NIV)

“Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him.” ~ Psalm 91:14-15 (NASB)

“…the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.” ~  2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NASB)

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.” ~ Proverbs 18:10 (NASB)

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” ~ Psalm 18:2 (NASB)

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” ~ Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

“He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken.” ~ Psalm 62:6 (NASB)

“On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.” ~ Psalm 62:7 (NASB)

“Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found; Surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him. You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance.” ~ Psalm 32:6-7 (NASB)

“Blessed be the Lord, my rock, Who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; my lovingkindness and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and He in whom I take refuge…” ~ Psalm 144:1-2 (NASB)

“Stretch forth Your hand from on high; rescue me and deliver me out of great waters…” ~ Psalm 144:7 (NASB)

“But the Lord has been my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge.” ~ Psalm 94:22 (NASB)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB)

“When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden fear nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.” ~ Proverbs 3:24-26 (NASB)

“It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment. For he will never be shaken; the righteous will be remembered forever. He will not fear evil tidings; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” ~ Psalm 112:5-7 (NASB)

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit.” ~ Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NASB)

“But he who listens to me shall live securely and will be at ease from the dread of evil.” ~ Proverbs 1:33 (NASB)

“You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and new wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, Lord, make me live in safety.” ~ Psalm 4:7-8 (HCSB)

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!’ For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. You will not be afraid of the terror by night, or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach you. You will only look on with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked. For you have made the Lord, my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place. No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and cobra, The young lion and the serpent you will trample down. ‘Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation.” ~ Psalm 91 (NASB)

“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever.” ~ Psalm 121 (NASB)

From We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3ssA3Mh

The memory pounced, blindsided, and left me reeling. I stood, trying to regain my thoughts.

Painful memories can’t be changed, I can’t alter what happened, and at times they leave me heartbroken and heart-sick. Oh, I need a mind wash. I need to forget that terrible thing that happened, that moment when my loved one took their final breath, the final cry I heard, the hurtful words that were said, the phone call that rocked my world. Oh, I need a mind wash!

Satan wants us to think we can’t fix the thoughts, that they will always torment, and we’ll never be able to firmly stand, heal, and move forward. The devil wants our focus to stay on the negatives that happened, the sins we committed, and the terrible thing we’ve seen, done, or experienced.

How do we get those thoughts under control, stand firm, heal, and move forward?

Run to The Truth. Nothing is impossible for God, nothing is too hard for Him, and His love is pure, holy, and unfailing. God’s perfect love drives out fear – all fear – fear of that bad memory, fear of those bad thoughts.

The enemy wants the focus to stay on the bad things instead of focusing on God who makes all things new, who causes all things to work together for good. Satan is the destroyer, but Jesus is the restorer.

Jesus came to release captives, bring sight to the blind, and set free those who are oppressed. We don’t have to stay bound by the enemy, we don’t have to be blinded by Satan’s lies that we can never be free or healed, Jesus sets us free from oppressive thoughts, and free from the memories that seek to destroy us. Through the power of Christ that lives within us, we take thoughts and memories captive.

We have been given the mind of Christ, a mind well-balanced and controlled by the Spirit, and the mind set on the Spirit is life. The Holy Spirit breathes Christ’s life within us, the mind of Christ within us, giving us the ability to reason, stand firm, and heal by the power of Christ.

When thoughts or memories come to mind, remember your mind is not defenseless. Christ who lives within you has all power and authority; you are never unprotected. Ask Him who makes all things new, to give you a new thought to replace that one, ask the Lord to replace the thought with His truth, His healing, and His restoration.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love. Thank You that nothing is impossible for You. Oh, Father the enemy is trying to distract me with thoughts that bring heartache and pain. Father, You care for Your children and Your love is perfect, so please in Your tender mercies and Your pure love, replace those thoughts with Your truth and Your healing.

Behind the darkest storm, the Son always shines, and Father, Your Son lives within me. Thank You that He sets me free and in Your perfect love I have nothing to fear. Help me to replace bad thoughts with thoughts of You and Your love. Thank You that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Thank You that evil will be punished, and no weapon forged against me will prosper.

Grant me the ability to think beyond the past to remember the amazing present and future I have with You. Thank You that my loved ones who passed away, their last breath here on earth was the first breath into eternal life. Help me to think on that which is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, things of good repute, excellence and worthy of praise.

Please give me a visual of You standing in the way of that memory and any thought the devil brings to mind. Heavenly Father, in the pureness of You and Your love You wash me clean, You remove the stains of the enemy’s fingerprints, You remove the stain of sin, You set me free! Praise You, Lord!

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].” ~ 2 Timothy 1:7 (AMP)

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28 (NASB)

Jesus read from Isaiah, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.” ~ Luke 4:18-19 (NASB)

Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” ~ Matthew 22:37 (NASB)

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears punishment has not been perfected in love.” ~ 1 John 4:18 (NET Bible)

“For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” ~ Romans 8:6 (NASB)

“For who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to advise him? But we have the mind of Christ.” ~ 1 Corinthians 2:16 (NET Bible)

“for the weapons of our warfare are not human weapons, but are made powerful by God for tearing down strongholds. We tear down arguments and every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ. We are also ready to punish every act of disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.” ~ 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (NET Bible)

“And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” ~ Romans 12:2 (AMP)

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” ~ Philippians 4:6-8 (NASB)

From, We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/47GRQU9

Howling winds and storm waves lashed at the ship. In a desperate attempt to not run aground, cargo was thrown overboard. The men lost hope, they couldn’t eat, couldn’t fight against the dangerous storm. Yet one man stood and told them to take heart, have courage, that although the ship would be lost, God would save everyone on board (Acts 27).

Paul was only one man, but his actions and reactions affected the other 275 people on that boat. Paul encouraged his shipmates, and his faith in God rippled out to give strength, courage, and faith that God would save those on the ship.

When one person is full of faith, their faith spills out and ripples out to others. Our faith in God, helps others have faith in God. Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 to encourage one another and build one another up.

To encourage one another means you are giving courage to another. Please don’t ever discount what you do and what you say. Actions and reactions cause chain reactions. Negative emotions, actions, and reactions, negatively affect others. Positive emotions, actions, and reactions bring positivity. And your faith and trust in God will help and encourage others in soul-deep ways.

There is a bigger picture than we can see, there is more to discover, and more to learn. During our storm seasons, let’s look for the God-given lessons. In the storms we learn who truly is in control. The only One who is in control – God.

In Paul’s case, the boat couldn’t save them, the sailors couldn’t save them, the soldiers couldn’t save them, Paul’s friends couldn’t save them, the only One with power to save was, and is, God. When storms rage and our ship is driven by the wind, even when people make choices that bring negative problems into our lives, when disaster looks imminent, remember God is still in control. He is all-powerful with all power to save, and He is a God of tender, new-every-morning mercies.

“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).

Our storms also have a greater purpose. Charles Spurgeon wrote, “Afflictions are often the dark settings God uses to mount the jewels of His children’s gifts, causing them to shine even brighter. … God trains His soldiers not in tents of ease and luxury but by causing them to endure lengthy marches and difficult service. He makes them wade across streams, swim through rivers, climb mountains, and walk many tiring miles with heavy backpacks.”

Storms are merely training sessions. Every trial and trouble we experience give an opportunity to discover how God helps us through every experience. Storms and difficulties give an opportunity to stretch our faith muscles to help us grow stronger in our faith.

James reminds us, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing” (James 1:2-4, NLT).

What often looks like the worst thing can be the best thing. Because of the storms, Paul had an opportunity to talk to the entire ship about God and share that God was the true God who saves. Paul’s calm faith reassured everyone on board to have faith. Because of Paul’s faith, those on board ate food and gathered their strength. Because of Paul’s faith, the centurion kept the soldiers from killing the prisoners. Because of Paul’s faith, everyone stayed on the ship until they ran aground.

Know what else is amazing? Those on board had to be shipwrecked to be saved. The boat being torn apart, provided objects for those who couldn’t swim to survive.

Because of Paul’s faith and testimony in God, I wonder how many on board wanted to know the God who saved them, the only, true God?

Steven Cole shared…“God could have saved Paul… but let the others perish. But instead, He graciously granted to Paul the lives of all on board. The world never knows the protection that it receives because of the presence and prayers of God’s people! Scripture doesn’t tell us how many of those on board eventually came to saving faith in Christ, but I think that many did. Whenever you are going through a storm, not only pray that God will deliver you, but also that He will grant you the souls of others with whom you have contact during the storm. He may be taking you through the storm for the very reason that He wants to use you to bring the gospel to others ‘on board’ with you. The fact that He graciously answers prayer for the salvation of others should encourage us in the storm.“[i]

When storms rage, when life’s shipwrecks come, our God is working in amazing ways. God is growing our faith, growing opportunities to stretch our faith, and giving opportunities to share our faith.

Pray for yourself, pray for others, and watch for the lessons God is revealing. Pray, be calm, and let your faith ripple on!

“Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation]’” (Isaiah 41:10, AMP).

Be calm and let your faith ripple on from Float by Faith by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3YeDIxd

[i] Steven Cole sermon, https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-70-encouragement-life-s-storms-acts-272-3-21-26-33-36

Photo by Emiliano Arano on Pexels

In the book of Exodus we read how the Israelites were miraculously rescued by God from slavery with the Egyptians. Even though the Israelites witnessed plagues and judgement against the Egyptians, even though the Israelites walked on dry land through the Red Sea, saw the complete destruction of the Egyptian army, and even though God led the Israelites with a cloud by day and fire by night, and provided for their every need, they still grumbled and complained to Moses and Aaron.

Moses told them, your grumblings are not against us but against the Lord (Exodus 16:8).

Yikes!

Ray Pritchard wrote, “Do we understand that complaining is an attack on God’s sovereignty? Every time you complain about your circumstances, you are really saying, ‘If I were God, I would do things differently.’ The complainer has forgotten the first rule of the spiritual life: He’s God and we’re not.”

Oh my. How it must grieve the heart of God when we complain. After reading that verse and the quote by Ray, I found myself trying to be very careful, with my words and my thoughts.

Complaining and grumbling focuses on people, problems, and circumstances, instead of focusing on our almighty, loving God. There is more, much more, than what we can see with our eyes, hear with our ears, or even imagine. God is loving and good, He is always in control, He is sovereign over all, He knows the plans and the future, and all things work together for the good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28).

Heavenly Father, please forgive me for complaining and grumbling. Thank You that You are sovereign and always in control. Thank You that there is a plan and purpose bigger, higher, and better than I can imagine. Please help me so that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart may be pleasing to You (Psalm 19:14).

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9, NKJV).

Therefore, “casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” “Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining [against God] and [questioning and doubting [among yourselves], That you may show yourselves to be blameless and guileless, innocent and uncontaminated, children of God without blemish (faultless, unrebukable) in the midst of a crooked and wicked generation [spiritually perverted and perverse], among whom you are seen as bright lights (stars or beacons shining out clearly) in the [dark] world (1 Peter 5:7, Philippians 2:14-15, AMPC).

The post, Grumbling against God, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

I sat on the banks of a clear, clean river. Water splashed and played along the rocks, the sound lulling and beckoning rest and relaxation. The day perfect and the moment wonderful.

All of the sudden, someone ran up, jumped in the river splashing water all over the place, and kicking their feet to stir up all sorts of mud and grime. The clean river became a mess, and my peaceful river and peaceful moment were ruined. Argh!

Who was that person?

Me.

Far too often I miss time given by God by muddying the moment with worries and anxious thoughts about the past, present, and future. Jesus said, “Do not let your heart be troubled (afraid, cowardly, distressed, agitated). Believe [confidently] in God, adhere to, and rely on and trust in Him, committing to and unto, [have faith, hold on to it, rely on it, keep going and] believe in, adhere to, and trust also in Me” (John 14:1, AMP & AMPC).

The Greek translation for the word “trouble” means to agitate, to cause one inward commotion, take away calmness of mind, to disquiet, make restless, to stir up, to perplex the mind, to strike one’s spirit with fear and dread.

Perhaps you’re also troubled and can identify with everything listed in those translations. I get it. Oh man, I get it. Life is full of difficulties. Yet Jesus invites us into the reality of what is possible through His peaceful presence. “Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]” (John 14:27, AMP). Underline added.

Jesus gives His perfect, calming, eternal peace, for every circumstance and every moment of our lives. His peace passes human understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Come to Me, Christ beckons. Let go by placing the problem, the person, the worry, the concern in the Hands of the all-powerful, loving, tender Lord. Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you. Surrender your worries, fears, and anxiety.

Fully surrender to fully receive. When surrendering all to Jesus, we get everything Jesus has to offer – mercy, grace, forgiveness, peace, eternal life, access to God the Father, His love, His joy, His eternal home.

Jeremiah 17:7-8 reminds us “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water that extends its roots by a stream, and does not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought, nor cease to yield fruit” (NASB)

When we believe and trust in the Lord, even in the hard times, we are given a fear-free, anxious-free, productive life. Jesus offers a blessed invitation for unmoving, solid, eternal peace, and hope. “You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]. Trust [confidently] in the Lord forever [He is your fortress, your shield, your banner], for the Lord God is an everlasting Rock [the Rock of Ages].” (Isaiah 26:3-4, AMP).

Therefore, clear up the muddy water by letting “the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always]” (Colossians 3:15, AMP).

The post, Muddy Waters, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com
Photo by Lisa Buffaloe

Father’s Day is a time of joy for many. However, for those who have lost fathers, had terrible fathers, or for those who never knew their fathers, Father’s Day is difficult.

God knows and cares. God is with those whose fathers were absent, abusive, or dismissive.

Whether your father was a blessing or not, please know, please always remember, you have a loving, tender, compassionate, merciful, Heavenly Father.  Your Heavenly Father will never leave you or forsake you. God loves you!

Heavenly Father, Happy Father’s Day to You! Thank You for Your unfailing love!

“The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.” ~ Psalm 103:13 (NLT)

“A Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.” ~ Psalm 68:5 (ESV)

Adapted from We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe https://amzn.to/2kyXlOC

https://lisabuffaloe.com

My desk is littered with what looks like nuclear fallout from a paper bomb, 128 e-mail messages await reading, and documents are stacked on the floor by the shredder. To-do-lists sit next to my computer keyboard, laundry waits, and dishes are in the sink. And inside, my soul churns from lack of Godly connection.

It’s my own fault. I woke, had a quick quiet-time and hit the ground running. I have a tendency to want spiritual nutrition on the fly. Kind of like driving up to a gas pump, putting the hose in the tank, then speeding off after receiving a few drops. No wonder I’m puttering down life’s highways.

Jesus tells us to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness. When we focus on our problems more than we focus on God, overwhelming factors hit like tidal waves. However, if we filter through God’s hands each task and activity, there is a calming and a centering within our souls. We are promised grace for each moment, strength for every step, for nothing is impossible with God. Sounds all fine and dandy on paper, but much harder to practice.

Life is often like a tight-rope walk while juggling fifty-two tasks. I want to know everything will be good, everyone will be healthy, and money will be in the bank for today and tomorrow. I want assurance now, patience now, and happiness now, all while running through my day at top speed.

And in the quiet part of my soul God’s whispers, be still, cease striving, do not worry, I will provide all your needs, I will never leave or forsake you.

I hesitate. Still not totally convinced, my feet keep moving, because somebody has to get all these things done.

The words from Psalm 23 float by in wind. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

But God, have you seen the checkbook balance? He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters.

I visualize myself a sheep running through the pasture, splashing in the water, acting like a toddler fighting against nap time. He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Restoration and guidance? Who has time for that? Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Life gets scary, and I run back to God’s arms looking for comfort. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Settling in prayer and praise, I seat myself at His banquet table. All the issues, problems, and tasks slough off and clunk to the floor. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

C – Connecting
P – Praising
R – Restoring

Happy, contented, sigh.
Thank You, Father.

From Living Joyfully Free, Volume 2 by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3wH9G6n

Another move loomed on the horizon, and I pondered what it would mean for me and my family. Okay, I’ll be honest, it’s mainly me I was considering. It would be my thirty-sixth move. I didn’t just want to find another house; I wanted a home.

As we moved again, I wondered if it would be a good place as we continued to get older. Would we have a good church, doctors, and friends, and would the city be a positive and safe place to live?

Regardless of the answers to the questions, I need to remember God is already wherever He sends us. God’s presence is home – my eternal home. If I will give myself freely, stop worrying about my needs and focus on God, He will meet all needs according to His riches in glory.

As I give freely of my earthly desire for earthly things, God blesses with more – more of Him! What is given freely, receives God’s free gifts with pressed down, poured out blessings. In holding nothing, I receive everything. In losing my life, I find The Life.

God has not given the spirit of fear, we need not worry about anything because our heavenly Father cares about everything (including where the Buffaloe roams).

Amy Carmichael wrote, “Think of yourself as belonging first to your Lord and then to all, Servant of all. In serving any one of the ‘all’ you are serving Him who is your Lord. Life is never lonely or empty if we keep Him where He must always be, in the first place.”[i]

Making the Lord the first place, our first love, surrendering all to Him to be used in His service, that is where Home is found. In God’s presence is fullness of joy, and with Christ in our hearts, we are already Home.

Is God prompting you to move? Perhaps He isn’t directing you to relocate your household, but He is asking you to move forward in a new direction.

Whatever path God guides you on, wherever He leads, you will find home in His joyful presence.

“You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” ~ Psalm 16:11 (NASB)

“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” ~ Colossians 3:1-3 (NASB)

“…my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:19 (NASB)

“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.” ~ Luke 6:38 (NASB)

“For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our dwelling from heaven, inasmuch as we, having put it on, will not be found naked. For indeed while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened, because we do not want to be unclothed but to be clothed, so that what is mortal will be swallowed up by life. Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord— for we walk by faith, not by sight— we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him. …” ~ 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NASB)

[i] Carmichael, Amy, Candles in the Dark, p 23, Fort Washington, PA:  CLC Publications

From We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe https://amzn.to/3I7Rsmq

I enjoy social interactions and also time with friends, but often the sharing of bad news gets me down and makes me crazy. The world’s a mess because Satan is very busy making a mess of this world. I don’t need to read every article and every detail about some horrific crime.

Paul wrote, “Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret.” (Ephesians 5:11-12, NLT)

As a Christian, my job is to share the good news of Christ; to share hope, encouragement, and light to a world living in darkness. I’ve lived through some terrible things, but God has restored and redeemed what the enemy meant for evil. Jesus Christ saved me! My God is bigger than anything or anyone! I have good news to tell! Will you join me? Please.

If we would share the good news can you imagine how encouraged we would all be? How excited we would be for the future because we would know our amazing God was doing amazing things. Oh my, if we would share how God is working in each of our lives, we would be having praise parties every moment of every day.

Please share good news. Share how God is working in your life. Share the hope of Christ. Share of God’s mighty deeds. Share the praises. Share encouragement. Share good news. Please, please share The Good News!

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!” (Isaiah 52:7, NLT)

“I have not kept the good news of your justice hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 40:10, NLT)

“Sing to the Lord; praise his name. Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.” (Psalm 96:2, NLT)

From The Unnamed Devotional by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/44xce8W

Hi, friends! I was blessed to be part of a Candid Church interview. Join me with Matt Buerhaus and Kim Livingston as we discuss God and our wonderful Savior –> https://youtu.be/KRdqNu_Qha4

Years ago, my husband had been laid off, and he spent months searching for a job. Several months passed, and I believed the Lord shared in my spirit some amazing and wonderful things that would come in the near future. With excitement and anticipation, I scurried about the house, preparing for what I believed were our next steps. Then surgeries for us both during that time put a stop to any plans. As health issues slowed us to snails, at times, I wondered if I correctly heard God.   

Mixed emotions come with every move. After thirty-plus moves, you would think it would be easier. However, questions about logistics are ever-present, and the concerns for all required to move to any new location. Can we easily sell the home were in, find an affordable home in another city, locate a good church, find doctors, friends, etc.? All that messes with my head because moving is not easy! The negative what ifs were far outweighing the positive “what ifs”.

I sensed a heavenly disappointing sadness in how I viewed the possible change. Why was I thinking of the worst possibilities instead of thinking the best?

Why was I not trusting God?

God’s love is unfailing. God is a good, good Father who wants the best for His children. God works all things for the good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. God knows the plans He has for us, plans for a good future filled with hope.

So why look for the negatives instead of the positives? Why am I not leaping in joy that God will lead? Why am I not trusting God for His best? Oh, my attitude makes me so sad. My good, good Father has shared amazing things, and I haven’t been rejoicing every moment at what is to come.

Oh, Father, please forgive me. Forgive me for my negative thinking, my worries, and my lack of trust. Forgive me for not trusting You for the best. Refocus my focus back on Your goodness. Retrain my brain to rejoice in Your faithful, unfailing love. I will stand and watch to see what You will do and how You will lead. I trust You for the best, for You are the best!

“Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” ~ Psalm 143:8 (NLT), Psalm 28:7 (NLT)

“Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” ~ Isaiah 43:19 (AMPC)

“’I say this because I know what I am planning for you,’ says the Lord. ‘I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.’” ~ Jeremiah 29:11 (NCV)

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” ~ Romans 8:28 (NLT)

(The move did come and God blessed with a very, very good move!)

From We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3ZrzlP5

Jesus turned to those following Him and asked, “What are you seeking?” And they asked, where are you staying? And Jesus replied, Come and see” (John 1:38-39).

What are you seeking from Jesus? “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near” (Isaiah 55:6, NKJV). For, when we seek Him with all our hearts we will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).

What are you looking for? Is your soul hungry and thirsty? Come and see Jesus who is the Bread of Life and the Living Water. “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”(John 6:35, John 7:38, ESV)

Do you need to know the way? Come and see the One who is The Way, the Truth, and the Life. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6, ESV).

Are you seeking peace? Come and see the One who gives peace and Who is peace. Jesus invites, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (John 14:27, NASB).

Are you desperate for light? Come and see the One who is light. Jesus is the light of the world. Whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. (John 8:12)

Are you longing for comfort? Come to God and His Son, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement), Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged) by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, AMPC).

Whatever you are seeking, whatever you are looking for, you will find in God and His Son, Jesus Christ. “Ask and keep on asking and it will be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you will find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who keeps on asking receives, and he who keeps on seeking finds, and to him who keeps on knocking, it will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8, AMP).

“Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; let those who love Your salvation continually say, ‘God is great!’” (Psalm 70:4, HCSB). “Seek and deeply long for the Lord and His strength [His power, His might]; seek and deeply long for His face and His presence continually.” (Psalm 105:4, AMP).

The post, Seeking, first appeared on lisabuffaloe.com

I am so very grateful for the sacrifice Jesus made by going to the cross. He took our sins and through His mercy, nailed them to the cross. Because of Jesus, we have eternal life.

How grateful I am that Jesus is NOT still on the cross. He rose again. He conquered death. His grace and mercy went to the cross, beyond the cross, to the grave, beyond the grave, rose again to give new life, new mercies, and new beginnings.

Jesus is off the cross and rose from the grave to allow us to rise anew in Him. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NASB)

The cross is empty and the tomb is empty. With Jesus as our Savior, we can cross off sin’s grip through Christ’s grace and mercy. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and He sets us free!

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him.” ~ John 3:16-17 (NASB) “…God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” ~ Romans 5:8 (AMP)

Jesus “used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way. When you were stuck in your old sin-dead life, you were incapable of responding to God. God brought you alive—right along with Christ! Think of it! All sins forgiven, the slate wiped clean, that old arrest warrant canceled and nailed to Christ’s cross. And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” ~ 1 Peter 2:24 (MSG), Colossians 2:13-14 (MSG), John 8:32 (NASB)

From One Lit Step: Devotions for your journey by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/3sF2OF6

Searching, wanting, longing for love, desperation that beats for the empty places to be filled, for your moaning heart to be complete with love.

We’ve all been there, all of us have longed to find the one who will be with us through the changes and craziness of life, who will love us no matter what happens, who will love us for who we are.

Oh friend, I have good news. There is One. There is One who loves you, who loves with an unfailing love, who loves through the good, bad, and ugly of your life. Jesus Christ will never leave you or forsake you. His love is everlasting. His love is like no other. He never will tire of you. His love will never let go.

You are never too old, never too young, never too fat or too thin, too quiet or too loud or too needy. His love is steadfast and unchanging. His love always thinks the best of you. His love is deep, wide, high, perfect and pure.

Jesus tenderly calls, “Come to Me all you are weary and tired and I will give rest.” He gives rest for your heart and your mind, safety and eternal security. Your heart is home with Jesus. You will never be alone. When you can’t sleep, He will be with you. When you are in the hardships of life, He will be with you. When your heart is hurting, He will be with you. When you are rejoicing, He will be with you. When you need a friend, He is always with you.

Jesus wants to save you, save you from sin, save you for eternity so that you will eternally live in His love. Jesus died and rose again so that your heart would be filled with His eternal love. He will be with you throughout your life, always with you, always for your best. He is peace. He is with you 24/7 and never tires of being with you. He gently guides and leads you in the way you should go. He is the way. He won’t ever lie to you. He’ll give you the wisdom you need. He is truth and He is life for your body, soul, mind, and heart.

Looking for love? Longing for love? No greater love, and no other love, will love you like Jesus.

Jesus gently calls,  “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. I have loved you just as the Father has loved Me; remain in My love [and do not doubt My love for you]. For, “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”  ~ Matthew 11:28-29 (NASB), John 15:9 (AMP), Jeremiah 31:3 (ESV)

Remember always, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning…” ~ Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

Emphasis added on scripture

From Time with The Timeless One by Lisa Buffaloe, https://amzn.to/2WRjJ6D

Gray-green clouds billowed on the evening horizon. With a quick goodbye to my co-workers, I hurried to my car. Rain fell and quickly morphed into sleet. My car windshield wipers flapped at full speed, and I gripped the wheel as I drove the winding back roads to my parent’s home in the country.

Slowing down for a curve, my tires lost traction. The car spun out of control, skidded sideways, and crashed into a deep ditch. Rattled but unscathed, I sat praying, wondering what to do since my car was stuck.

Thirty minutes from home and without a cell phone, my options were to walk or sit and wait. If I waited, my parents wouldn’t know I was missing until later that night and they wouldn’t know which country road I had taken.

Several farmhouses sat off the road, but even to reach them would be a long walk. The only person within walking distance was a young man who had his checking account at the bank where I worked. I didn’t know him well. I was a teenage bank teller and he was a flirt.

Thinking perhaps he might be my best opportunity; I crawled out of my car and made my way up the ditch.

Just then, a beat-up, old station wagon stopped next to me. The passenger window rolled down. “Can I drive you somewhere?” The driver, an elderly man wearing stained painters’ coveralls, waited for my answer.

The freezing rain picked up in intensity. I hesitated and glanced at the abundance of paintbrushes, rollers, and paint cans spread throughout his vehicle. Cold and with limited choices, I opened the door and sat in his car. “I know someone nearby. He lives in a trailer up the road. Could you take me there?”

He looked at me, his gaze unwavering. “How well do you know him?” Somehow, I could hear my dad asking the same question.

I squirmed at his fatherly scrutiny. “Not well, he has an account at the bank where I work.”

He shook his head. “I won’t take you there. How far do you live?”

“About thirty minutes. But you don’t have to drive me that far.”

Again, his gaze locked into mine. “Do you have anyone you know well, or your parents know who lives closer?”

I couldn’t think of anyone for a few minutes until I remembered a family friend. “Yes sir. One of my mom’s friends lives about ten minutes away.”

He nodded and we drove in silence.

The house of our friend stood nestled off the road in a stand of trees. My rescuer drove his car down the wet pine-straw-covered driveway and stopped.

I thanked him and offered to pay for his trouble. Declining my offer, he waited as I ran to the house.

After I knocked on the door, my mom’s friend greeted me with open arms. A breeze filtered through the trees. I looked back. The pine-straw was undisturbed. My rescuer was gone.

Life is full of unseen dangers. Thankfully we have a God who protects, guides, and holds our hand through the storms of life. And sometimes, He even sends an angel wearing painter’s coveralls to carry us safely home.

Heavenly Father, thank You that even when life is cold and scary, we are never out of Your loving care.

“The Angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them.” (Psalm 34:7, HCSB)

From Living Joyfully Free by Lisa Buffaloe

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In the Old Testament we read of kings who reigned throughout Biblical history. Unfortunately, many did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and others were listed as doing what was good and right in the sight of the Lord.

I found it interesting that even during the reign of some of the “good” kings, there were still times the nation had to fight. Sometimes God told them to fight because He would be with them and make them victorious. Other times God would tell them not to go into battle that He would take care of the situation. Unfortunately, there were occasions when the nation did not seek God’s guidance and instead charged into battle without God’s help. Those wars did not end well.

Then there is the story of David who should have been in battle with his army but stayed home and wound up committing adultery and then murder (2 Samuel 11).

Difficulties are part of life while we live on this earth, and we fight physical, spiritual, and mental battles. The battle might be ours to fight, might belong to someone else, or the battle may belong to the Lord. We need God and His direction and guidance to live a victorious life.

The other day someone posted something on social media. What was posted was true, and the person was immediately attacked. I read the comments and thought of joining in, yet I felt a check in my spirit. That battle was his, not mine. I would be fighting a battle God did not call me to fight. Far too often I have marched into a situation without seeking God’s guidance and the results were not pretty.

When people “inquired of the Lord” God directed them whether or not they should go into a battle, and He would often give them advice on how to handle the encounter (1 Samuel 30:8, 2 Samuel 5:19, 1 Chronicles 14:8-16).

Our fight isn’t against people on earth but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of this world’s darkness the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly world. Therefore, we need to put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-13), and no matter what we see with our eyes, hear with our ears, or think in our thoughts, before stepping into a battle and responding in word or deed, seek God’s wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5, AMP).

Only God knows the truth of a situation and the timing of how things will be handled. To live in victory, we need to go to our victorious God.

Heavenly Father, You know the plans You have for me, plans to give me a future and a hope. I don’t know what to do, so I look to You for help. For You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me. Before I take a step forward I need Your guidance and wisdom. Please show me Your ways and teach me Your paths. You will guide me with Your plan, and afterward receive me to glory. Thank You, God, that You give victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jeremiah 29:11, 2 Chronicles 20:12, Psalm 31:3, James 1:5, Psalm 25:4, Psalm 73:24, 1 Corinthians 15:57).

Sometimes forgiving others is easier than forgiving ourselves. Please don’t let the enemy convince you that your sin is too bad, too many, or too terrible for God’s forgiveness. I’ve heard people say that because of their sins there is no hope for repair or restoration. Yes, there are always consequences to sin. And unfortunately, behaviors will spill over to affect other lives. Fortunately, God is bigger than any mistake or failure.

David was an adulterer and murderer, but God called him a man after His own heart.

Moses killed a man, but God spoke to him face-to-face as a friend.

Rahab was a prostitute, but God blessed her to be the mother of Boaz. And Boaz married Ruth, and through their further generations came our precious Savior, Jesus Christ.

Saul stood by watching and agreeing with the stoning of Steven and then he persecuted Christians, but God used him in mighty ways to further His kingdom.

The woman caught in adultery, the woman who “lived a sinful life” all found forgiveness at the feet of Jesus.

Regardless of your past, no matter what has happened, what you have been through, God’s forgiveness is freely offered for those who come to Him. Let that steep in you. The Lord will forgive if you honestly, earnestly confess, and repent.

Grace touches to the very marrow of our being and cleanses us from the inside out, creating a new creature in Christ. Created uniquely, we become the best we can be through His grace. All we must do is accept what He so freely offers.

“Turn to the Lord! He can still be found. Call out to God! He is near. Give up your evil ways and your evil thoughts. Return to the Lord our God. He will be merciful and forgive your sins” (Isaiah 55:6-7, CEV).

“Come now, and let us reason together,’ Says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool” (Isaiah 1:18, NASB).

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