Sweet hubby and I watched an old movie with Audrey Hepburn. Stately, elegant, beautiful yet approachable, Audrey Hepburn. The next day, insecurity jumped all over me. I don’t look like Audrey Hepburn, my hair isn’t as cute as hers, and I can barely walk straight in high heels. Whimper.

Comparing myself to Audrey was not a smart move. I’ll be honest, I wasted an entire day internally whining about my inadequacies. The more I thought about her and her beauty, the more I compared myself to her, the more insecure I became.

What was I thinking? Audrey Hepburn was an actress with perfect lighting, professional makeup artists, tailor-made clothing, and scripted dialogue. Under those conditions, I probably could look and act pretty good myself.

Insecurity is a tool from the enemy to keep us so self-focused we can’t see the reality and beauty of our God-created uniqueness. Insecurity keeps us from enjoying today, enjoying God, and enjoying others.

I want to get rid of insecurity by remembering I am in the eternal security of Jesus. It’s not about being conformed to the image of an actress or person, but about conforming to the image of Christ.

The good news is, as a Christian, the process is an inward change, we are predestined to be conformed, called, justified, and glorified. The change is inward, taking place within the soul radiating out, transforming, renewing, redeeming, making whole – wholly loved, wholly accepted, and wholly restored.

Insecure? Remember you are secure in Christ. You don’t have to look to other people, compare yourself to others, but keep focused on Jesus, He is the author and perfecter, The One who takes and makes you His beautiful, transformed, renewed, glorified, wonderful work of art.

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, … and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.” Therefore, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith … do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” ~ Romans 8:29-30 (NASB), Hebrews 12:2 (NASB), Romans 12:2 (NASB)

“For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].” ~ Ephesians 2:10 (AMP)

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

Hi, friends. I just celebrated another birthday and am so grateful God blessed me with books to write.

Join me in the celebration by entering to win a $25.00 Amazon gift card and your choice of two free books (your choice of format). Enter to win -> a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blessings to you!

Lisa Buffaloe

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. The word Thanksgiving brings smiles to many, sadness to others. It’s a word associated with a holiday with images of Norman Rockwell paintings of family sharing food and laughter around a bountiful table. But the images aren’t real for most. Families are scattered by distance, painful memories, sin, death, and heartache. And holidays only make many hearts depressed and lonely.

Please know, never forget, that Thanksgiving is a word that means so much more. Thanksgiving is a word that brings joy in spite of the realities of pain and loneliness. Thanksgiving is a thankful heart for the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Savior who comes to live in hearts that have felt distanced, have painful memories, sin, death of dreams and loved ones, and heartache. Jesus comes inside hearts and lives, and restores, and redeems, and never leaves, and always loves.

Thanksgiving replaces emotions with reality, the reality of a life that is eternal, that rises the soul above the painfulness and frailty of life.

If your life is good, be thankful! 

If your life is hard and miserable, thank God He will help you through and never leave you. There is always something for which to be thankful.

Please know, never forget, even during times of loneliness our tender God is there to hold you close, sit quietly with you, and love you through the sadness of any day. You are never alone, never alone.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday, thanksgiving is a lifestyle. And the more we style our life on thankfulness, the more our eyes are open to see God’s blessings, provision, faithfulness, and love.

Be thankful, for you are eternally and unfailingly loved!

“In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.” ~ Exodus 15:13

“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind.” ~ Psalm 107:8

“But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.” ~ Psalm 13:5

“How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” ~ Psalm 36:7

From The Unnamed Devotional, by Lisa Buffaloe https://amzn.to/3XmGGPt

Photo by Lisa Buffaloe

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Have you ever talked with someone and walked away troubled by the conversation? Or you say something to a friend or loved one, and from their reaction, realize they misinterpreted your meaning?

Since we don’t read minds, effective communication can be difficult.

However, if we are in a love relationship, what we hear and what is heard, regardless of reaction or circumstance, is filtered through love.

Can you imagine the freedom we would have if we truly understood God’s love?

God not only loves us, God is love. He is love that isn’t just an emotion. God. Is. Love.

If we are God’s, if we are in a love relationship with Him, anything that happens to us, regardless of the pain and suffering, we can be assured is filtered through His loving hands.

Paul, who endured many a trial and hardship, wrote “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)

Because of that truth, we can live in freedom. We can drive God’s love so deep into our hearts and souls that we’re not buffeted by the worries of this world. We can live like little children excited to see what our Heavenly Father has in store for each day.

“So, we can say with confidence, ‘The LORD is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?’ We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. We can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God. And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. For the word of the LORD holds true, and we can trust everything He does.” ~ Hebrews 13:6, Romans 5:3, Romans 5:11, 1 Corinthians 2:12, Psalm 33:4 (NLT)

Mining for Treasure

 No matter how rich the human love, nothing and no one will love us as much and no one can show us more that we are loved than God. God’s love is perfect love, love that is beyond the gentlest touch, the sweetest kiss, and the warmest embrace. His Love is faithful, compassionate, gracious, magnificent, infinite, overflowing, unfailing, and eternal love.

Would you be willing to take whatever you are facing, whatever is happening in your life, and filter it through God’s love?

From Unfailing Treasures by Lisa Buffaloe

Enjoying the warm summer evening, I stood in left field. My softball skills weren’t the best, and the coach had placed me where he thought I could do the least damage. But then… with a crack of the bat, the ball zoomed right at me. I held up my glove for self-preservation. With a whump, the ball landed safely in my mitt. I jumped for joy, hooting and hollering, celebrating with all my might. I caught it!

My teammates weren’t celebrating with me, instead they were yelling. Why? Wasn’t catching the ball a good thing? Wasn’t everyone supposed to be excited?

Why was the other team still running? They weren’t supposed to run. They were supposed to stop, because I caught the ball.

Unfortunately, I didn’t know I needed to get the ball back into the field of play until it was too late and the other team had scored. I’m embarrassed by my previous lack of ball skills, and I wish I could tell you I was just a child. The truth is, I was in my twenties playing with people from work. (my softball career ended quickly.). I know better now. I understand the rules. Catching the ball was only part of the process, throwing it back into play would have kept the other team from scoring. Releasing what I had in my hand would have doubled my joy (and definitely made my teammates happier).

When we receive Jesus as Lord of our lives, we are joyfully given His mercy, grace, and eternal life. And when we pass on what we have been freely given by Christ, our joy doubles — we celebrate, Heaven celebrates, and the body of Christ celebrates. As we share the good news, we also stop the enemy from advancing. 

Have you been blessed to receive Jesus as your Savior? Please remember to share Jesus and let the joy parties begin!

“…there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” ~ Luke 15:10, Matthew 28:19-20 (NASB)

From, We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe, http://amzn.to/2FK7S5Q

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It’s giveaway time!

I am thrilled to announce my book, Open Lens, is part of the Stockingful of Books Giveaway. This giveaway runs 11/6 through 11/12, and the prize consists of ten Christian books. The 1st place winner will receive all ten books (authors’ choice of format) and the 2nd place winner will receive three books (authors’ choice of format) of their choosing. A variety of genres, from fantasy to historical romance to suspense and more, are featured.

You can enter to win here: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/bfce54d312/?

https://lisabuffaloe.com

Before the sun had risen, I stayed in bed worrying about things that needed to be taken care of, and I also worried about the possibility of a difficult conversation I might need to have with someone. And to top it off, I started worrying about other problems and all the many, many, many problems in the world. The “what if” scenarios rolled around in my mind taken away my peace, comfort, and joy.

Then I had a gentle prompt in my spirit to stop worrying about the “what if” and remember that whatever happens God is with His children.

Confidence, peace, comfort, and joy, come from our great and awesome God. We need to remember who God is – He is all-powerful, almighty, He loves with an unfailing love, He is the God of all comfort, He is always in control, and He promises to never leave or forsake us. We need to also remember if we have Christ as our Savior, we are a child of the King of kings, and oh how He loves His children!

Whatever happens, whatever comes, God is with you through it all. 

“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice” (Isaiah 41:10, AMPC).

The post, What if, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

Stop the world, I want to get off! Anyone else feel that way? Goodness, it’s crazy out there. People are worried, fearful, and angry, and with the mess of the world it’s easy to get caught up in the messiness.

However, I need to remember to renew the view by viewing from the proper perspective of God’s truth. Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them in the truth [set them apart for Your purposes, make them holy]; Your word is truth.” ~ John 17:17 (AMP)

We are to be sanctified in God’s truth — set apart, dedicated, holy. As Christians, we are not of this world, our citizenship is in heaven and in that truth we are overcomers, united and grounded in the solid rock of God’s love.  

We don’t have to fear, because God’s perfect love casts out fear. Although we are subject to government, we need to remember on Whose shoulders rests the government. Pray for those in authority, living lives that show the love of God. Some trust in chariots and horses (political parties), but we can completely trust in the Lord.

Take a deep breath, cease striving and remember God is in control and over all nations. No need to be anxious or worried, God knows what you need and He’s got all you need. Trust in the Lord, He’ll direct your paths. Trust in God, rely on Him, do good, dwell in the land and be faithful. Love one another. Don’t fear, God is with you. Don’t be afraid. Don’t fear men. Rejoice in the Lord. Rest in the Lord. Trust in the Lord. You are safe forever in God’s loving hands.

Romans 12:2, Philippians 3:20, 1 John 5:4, 1 John 4:18, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, 1 Peter 2:13, Romans 13:1-7, Isaiah 9:6, Psalm 20:7, Psalm 46:10, Philippians 4:6, Matthew 6:25-34, Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 37:3, John 13:34-35, Isaiah 41:10, Proverbs 29:25, Philippians 4:4, Psalm 91:1, John 10:28-29

From One Lit Step:  Devotions for your journey, http://amzn.to/2FzWR7G

lisabuffaloe.com

I’ve struggled for years with neck issues. Last week I returned to the surgeon to discuss what could be done. My neck is a mess with some areas collapsed and so arthritic in the lower areas that the discs are starting to fuse together. Nerves are pinched in some areas, squashed in others. The entire neck now curves in the wrong direction. Even though several surgeries could be done, the surgeon doesn’t believe any of them would alleviate the pain.

God can do anything. He can heal. Nothing is impossible for Him. I don’t know His plans, but I do pray for healing. Would you be willing to pray for healing but also for strength to go through whatever is next?

Healing is the goal, however at times we walk through hard things. Sometimes, healing doesn’t come until we are in heaven. Sometimes, life hurts.

Many of you are going through health issues, the loss of loved ones, and a myriad of difficulties. God promises, “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” (Isaiah 43:2, NASB).

God is with you through the hard things, through the pain, and through the tears of loss. He is the God of all comfort, and His mercies are new every morning. Even when things look hopeless, God’s hope never fails. Hold on to Him, for His loving and tender arms will never leave or forsake you. One day, all pain will be gone, all tears dried, all questions answered, and our true life will begin in joyful eternity.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-4, NASB).

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among the people, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away. And He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’ And He said, ‘Write, for these words are faithful and true.’” (Revelation 21:3-5, NASB).

The post, Through the Pain, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

My sweet Mom passed away September 23rd. In the last six years, we have lost five family members to death. How grateful I am that God is the merciful God of all comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3). God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow] (Psalm 147:3, AMP).

We mourn because we miss our loved ones, yet we have the reassurance that our earthly loss is their heavenly gain. Jesus said, “In My Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to Myself, so that where I am, there you also will be” (John 14:2-3, NASB). Jesus Christ has prepared in His Father’s house an eternal custom-made place for those who follow Him as Savior. And, “God has given no promise that He will not redeem. He does not offer hope that He will not fulfill.” ~ Charles Spurgeon

We have the comfort knowing our loved ones who love the Lord are in Heaven with God. We can’t imagine the beauty and joy they are experiencing for all eternity. For just as it is written: “Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, And which have not entered the human heart, All that God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Corinthians 2:9, NASB).

“Heaven is not the best the world has to offer. Heaven is the best God has to offer. … Heaven is the place of supreme beauty because perfection is there. The perfect God, the God of unqualified beauty — He is there, and heaven is going to be beautiful.”- A. W. Tozer[i]

I miss my family, yet one day we will again be together in the joyful, beautiful presence of our amazing God and Savior.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your Savior? There are a million roads but only one leads Home to Heaven — Jesus is The Way, the Truth, and the Life and no one comes to our Heavenly Father but through Him (John 14:6). “For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life” (John 3:16, AMPC).

If you have questions about Jesus Christ and are longing for the reassurance of heaven, please link to… https://peacewithgod.net/ or https://lisabuffaloe.com/good-enough-for-heaven/

[i] Tozer, A. W., Delighting in God

The post, Longing for Heaven, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

I adore hiking in the mountains. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to walk trails around the country. The clean outdoor air clears my lungs and my mind, and I feel closer to the Lord in the stillness of God’s nature. The times I’ve had those opportunities are joy-filled… Best. Days. Ever!

Since I was a young girl, I’ve wanted to live in a cabin in the mountains with a small stream, creek, or river nearby.

Other friends tell me they would love a place by the ocean, some even prefer the city life. Regardless of the location, I think most of us can envision a perfect place, a place where we can find peace and belonging, a place that would restore our souls.

As I was praying and pondering this life-long longing, I felt the Lord impress on my spirit that it’s not a place, but in His presence where joy is found. God is our peace, He is our joy, He is the only One who can restore souls. He is the living water, the home for our hearts, the perfect place where we abide in His unfailing, perfect love.

Looking for that perfect place?

The perfect place is found in God’s perfect presence.

“I’m asking God for one thing, only one thing: to live with him in his house my whole life long. I’ll contemplate his beauty; I’ll study at his feet. That’s the only quiet, secure place in a noisy world, the perfect getaway, far from the buzz of traffic.” ~ Psalm 27:4-5 (MSG)

“My help and glory are in God—granite-strength and safe-harbor-God—so trust him absolutely, people; lay your lives on the line for him. God is a safe place to be.” ~ Psalm 62:7-8 (MSG)

From One Lit Step: Devotions for your journey, https://amzn.to/3BbvXwW

lisabuffaloe.com

Labor day is over and work begins again.

The hard work you do, the sacrifices you make, the constant giving of yourself and your skills, aren’t noticed. The accolades don’t come, your passed over for the promotion, the family doesn’t seem to care, and no one appears to understand how hard you work. Even God seems distant. Working. Is. Hard. Shouldn’t they, and shouldn’t He, reward you? Shouldn’t you at least get a “thank you” or a pat on the back? It’s hard to keep working when no one seems to notice. It’s hard when the reward we thought we would get never comes to fruition.

When those questions and doubts attack, I wonder am I working for the praise of man or for God? Pleasing people is a trap, a snare. Working for the praise of man is an empty void that can never be filled, like trying to fill a cup with holes in the bottom. If I work to satisfy my fleshly desires, to please others, to attain earthly treasure or earthly praise, all I’ve accomplished is temporary. Only Kingdom treasures are eternal treasures.

When I feel like giving up, I need to get my mindset back on God, on His purposes and His Kingdom. When I work for Him, keep my eyes on Him, then work is pleasure. Then, work becomes a blessing as I work to bless The One who has eternally blessed me.

To keep my thoughts on the right track, to get back on my feet, and my hands steady to stay at the work I believe the Lord has called me to complete, I run to God’s Word. The Bible gives truth to replenish the weary soul and courage to continue.

Even when no one notices, remember God sees what is done in secret and will reward you. When it’s hard, keep working, don’t grow weary in doing good and remember even those who sow in tears will reap with joyful shouting (Matthew 6:4, Psalm 126:5, Galatians 6:9).

Even when you are under attack from the enemy, remember God is faithful, He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3).

Stop paying attention to people and working to please others, don’t fear them, listen to God, He provides comfort, protection, and is faithful to help you complete the work He has given you. Don’t work for selfish reasons and empty conceit, work for God’s interests and the interests of others. Walk in a manner worthy of your calling, keep your hand on the plow and run the race to win the prize (Isaiah 2:22, John 12:43, Isaiah 51:7, Isaiah 51:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24, Philippians 1:6, Philippians 2:3-4, Ephesians 4:1, Luke 9:62, 1 Corinthians 9:24).

Remember, you are God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand. You are seated in the heavenly places, therefore, work for the kingdom of God. Work for God’s glory shining your light for His glory to please Him. Work with God, work for The Eternal for eternal purposes and eternal reward (Ephesians 2:10, Ephesians 2:5-7, Matthew 5:16, 2 Corinthians 5:5-6, 2 Corinthians 6:6, 1 Corinthians 3:13-14).

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who doesn’t need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. God gives us victory through Jesus Christ. Don’t be moved. Always be outstanding in your work for God. Remember always, your labor for the Lord is never in vain. Keep working, friends. Keep working! (2 Timothy 2:15, 1 Corinthians 15:57-58)

“Companions as we are in this work with you, we beg you, please don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us. God reminds us, ‘I heard your call in the nick of time; the day you needed me, I was there to help.’ Well, now is the right time to listen, the day to be helped. Don’t put it off; don’t frustrate God’s work by showing up late, throwing a question mark over everything we’re doing. Our work as God’s servants gets validated—or not—in the details. People are watching us as we stay at our post, alertly, unswervingly . . . in hard times, tough times, bad times; when we’re beaten up, jailed, and mobbed; working hard, working late, working without eating; with pure heart, clear head, steady hand; in gentleness, holiness, and honest love; when we’re telling the truth, and when God’s showing his power; when we’re doing our best setting things right; when we’re praised, and when we’re blamed; slandered, and honored; true to our word, though distrusted; ignored by the world, but recognized by God; terrifically alive, though rumored to be dead; beaten within an inch of our lives, but refusing to die; immersed in tears, yet always filled with deep joy; living on handouts, yet enriching many; having nothing, having it all. … I can’t tell you how much I long for you to enter this wide-open, spacious life. We didn’t fence you in. The smallness you feel comes from within you. Your lives aren’t small, but you’re living them in a small way. I’m speaking as plainly as I can and with great affection. Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively!” ~ 2 Corinthians 6:5-13 (MSG)

Adapted from We Were Meant for Paradise, https://amzn.to/2PC9f7L

Emphasis added on scripture.
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A missionary mentioned in her writings that she had an “object service” for children. The kids were to bring an object (or make an object) that had been mentioned in the Bible and also bring the corresponding verse. Such as…

Bread — John 6:35 – Jesus is the Bread of Life.
Grapes – Numbers 13:23 –The Israelite spies carried a cluster of grapes between two poles because the grapes were so big.
Thorns – Mark 15:17 – Jesus wore the crown of thorns.
Grass — Isaiah 40:8 – “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.”
Stones — Luke 19:39-40 When the Pharisees told Jesus to quiet the people who were praising Him, “Jesus replied, ‘I tell you, if these stop speaking, the stones will cry out!’”
Seeds – Matthew 13 — The parables of Christ about seeds.

Wonderful object lessons are found throughout the Bible. What if we started thinking of verses that correspond with what we see? Every day, every moment, would be a treasure hunt for our eyes and a treasure hunt to feed our souls.

An old hymn by Clara Scott gives voice to my prayer… “Open my eyes that I may see glimpses of truth thou hast for me. Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free. Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see. Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine!”

The post, Treasure Hunt, first appeared on lisabuffaloe.com

The devil wants people to believe the world, and God, owes them something, and therefore, they have the right to be offended. Satan wants people to think God is uncaring, insensitive, unaware, distant and is holding out on them. The more the enemy can keep people feeling owed and offended, the more people are provoked. Negativity and offenses spread like wildfire by the pit of hell to send as many as possible to the pit of hell.

The enemy spends his time wreaking havoc in the world, abusing, terrorizing, putting out negative news about the terrible things the devil does, then pointing to God that it’s all His fault.

Anything that causes you to feel owed and offended, did not come from God. If you are a Christian, you are safe from hell, but the enemy can make you think you live in hell on earth if you don’t keep a heavenly perspective. If you are going to think about anything, share anything, ponder anything, let it be God’s truth. Stand on the solid foundation of God’s truth. God’s Word is truth and His truth sets you free.

Don’t let the sun go down on your anger, trust that God knows and will repay evil. Everything done in the dark will be exposed in the light. “Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” ~ Romans 12:19 (NASB)

Forgive. Forgiveness is a gift for yourself, take it, accept it, use it, and live free! “For if you forgive others their sins, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive you your sins.” ~ Matthew 6:14-15 (NET Bible) “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” ~ Ephesians 4:32 (NASB)

Don’t allow being offended ruin you or anyone else around you. “Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God’s grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it.“ ~ Hebrews 12:15 (AMPC)

Drop your offenses at the foot of the Cross where your debt was paid and all your offenses were forgiven. Live free, unoffended, knowing the Lord is generous, kind, compassionate, loving, and eternally takes care of His children.

Remember, whatever your need God “will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:19 (NASB) And, what you sow for God’s kingdom will be eternally rewarded in God’s kingdom. Don’t grow weary in doing good, your reward will come.

Therefore, “live lives [of honor, moral courage, and personal integrity] worthy of the God who [saves you and] calls you into His own kingdom and glory. As Jesus said, “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.  Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 2:12 (AMP), John 13:34-35 (NLT)

“So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10 (MSG)

(Emphasis added on scripture)

Adapted from Present in His Presence, https://amzn.to/3QInS9G

Bluebird photo credit

Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/y98d1bmuEUU

My sweet hubby and I watched a movie from the 1940’s — a gentle story of a family with all their funny little idiosyncrasies, struggles, hopes, and dreams. For days, I contemplated the gentleness of the film, the love the family had for one another and the sacrifices they made through each hardship. Their story gentled my heart.

In a world full of hardships and struggles, we need a gentle story. We need to see that others have made it through the pain, misunderstandings, family issues, and life issues. We need a happy ending.

The Bible has the most gentle of stories, the story of One who laid down His all so we could gain all. Jesus Christ sacrificed so all who will come to Him become His family. Jesus grants eternal life and gives His gentle help through the trials and difficulties here on earth.

God hushes storms to gentle whispers, and He offers to carry our heart-wrenching burdens on His gentle heart. In the family of God, He will help us through the pain, misunderstandings, family issues, and life issues, and will always bring us to a happy ending.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the offer of anyone to come into Your family through Jesus Christ. Thank You for Your unfailing love and that You will never leave us or forsake us. Thank You that You are an ever-present help in time of trouble. Thank You Heavenly Father, for Your gentle heart that carries us through this crazy world and brings us safely home. Please gentle my heart in You. 

“He hushes the storm to a calm and to a gentle whisper, so that the waves of the sea are still” (Psalm 107:29, AMPC). 

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29, AMPC). 

Adapted from, We Were Meant for Paradise by Lisa Buffaloe, Amazon — https://amzn.to/2o0aSR1

During a morning walk, I thought of a wicked person who has been in power for decades, and I wondered why God had not removed them from that position (and to be honest, I wanted them removed from the earth). God gently reminded, “The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people’s conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering (extraordinarily patient) toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, AMPC, emphasis added).

God also knows that removing someone too early from this earth can hinder others. Jesus told the parable of a farmer who sowed good seed in his field, but an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat. When the plants sprouted and produced grain, then the weeds also appeared. The servants asked the farmer if they should pull out the weeds. The farmer told them to wait because when “you gather up the weeds, you might also uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. At harvest time I’ll tell the reapers: Gather the weeds first and tie them in bundles to burn them, but store the wheat in my barn” (Matthew 13:24-30, HCSB).

I asked for the Lord’s forgiveness for my thoughts about that person. I need to trust God even when evil people seem to prosper and evil seems to win. There are more souls at stake than I can conceive. Only God knows a person’s heart and if they will repent and come to Him for salvation.

When Saul was persecuting and murdering Christians, how many prayed for his destruction? How many didn’t understand why God would allow such a horrible man to continue persecuting the early believers? Yet, when Saul became a Christian and became Paul, how many lives have been saved because of Paul’s testimony and writings?

Later, when Paul was on a ship being destroyed by a storm, “the soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim away and escape. But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, kept them from their purpose and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first and get to land, and the rest, some on boards and some on parts of the ship. And so it was that they all escaped safely to land” (Acts 27:42-43, NKJV, underline added). How many prisoners who were kept from death that day came to know the Lord as Savior? When one is saved, many more may be saved.

Heavenly Father, help me to trust in Your timing and Your ways. Only You know the big picture, the future, and all that is at stake. Thank You that Your tender, gracious, merciful love continues to call to those who are lost. I pray that You would bless that person with salvation and that many would see and also be saved. I ask these things in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our Savior. Amen.

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

Free days on Amazon for The Discovery Chapter (Hope and Grace Series – Book 4) 

Fiction came easy for Susan LeClaire. Working on her manuscripts gave her a safe place to bare her soul and write the true-life wrongs done to others. Keeping God at arm’s length, her author’s name merely an alias, Susan lived hidden in plain sight while the secrets in her own life stayed concealed.

Three years have passed since Steve Smith gazed into Susan’s beautiful face. As the opportunity came for them to meet again, he wondered how she was, and if she had healed from what she’d gone through.

As secrets are uncovered, Susan’s past collides with her future. What will the cost be to find the truth? Will those discoveries bring healing and help her step into the next chapter of her life, or will she be trapped forever in the pain of her past?

#Free on #Amazon #Kindle through August, 2 to read on your Kindle, e-reader, phone, or computer. Click on the link to buy for 0.00 and order now…. https://amzn.to/3cWFmjy

“WOW! This book blew me away! Not only does it have an awesome story, the messages given throughout are messages for the heart. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more by this author!” ~ Amber

“I believe I have read all of Lisa’s novels and I am never disappointed. I downloaded this one just a few hours ago with the plan to read the intro and then come back to it another day. Didn’t happen. I got sucked in and carried away as page after page of God’s truth influenced the characters and me. I mean, who takes notes in fiction! More than a great story, The Discovery Chapter is an invitation to discover the goodness of our Creator and who we could be if we surrender to Him.” ~ Dutchess Horton

Some see God as sitting in the heavens watching from afar, yet God is compassionate, merciful, tender-hearted, and personally cares for each of His children.

Your salvation is personal, and God’s care is personal, “thus says the Lord, your Creator, … He who formed you, … ‘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 43:1-3a, NASB). “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10, NASB).

God is with you, He will strengthen you, He will help you, He will uphold you. God is El Roi—the God who sees. God sees you. No one may seem to notice you. No one may see your brokenness as you sit in the dust of past failures, past sins, or past difficulties. No one knows your silent pain, your deepest needs and longings. No person may know the battle you are going through right now, but God does. He sees you. He knows your heart. He cares for you. “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the LORD, who has compassion on you” (Isaiah 54:10, NIV).

Therefore, “Be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might” (Ephesians 6:10, AMP). “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 in dread … for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6, ESV). 

God’s unfailing love, peace, and compassion are always with you. God loves you. Rest in God’s personal love and care. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29, AMPC).

The post, It’s personal, first appeared on https://lisabuffaloe.com

Why all the suffering and pain? As we become Christians, why aren’t we immediately rescued from the troubles of this earth?

Jesus told His followers to go, tell, and make disciples of the nations (Matthew 28:19). If we are gone, how could we go, and who would tell others about Christ?

We are told to comfort others with the comfort we are given by our merciful God (2 Corinthians 1:3-5). If we never suffered how would we know how to give comfort?

Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown in prison. What if they had never been jailed? Prisoners wouldn’t have heard them singing praises to God, they wouldn’t have seen the power of God as the prison shook and cell doors opened, and the jailer and his whole household would not have been saved (Acts 16:22-31).

What if Paul had not spent any time in prison? Would we have his beautiful treasure-trove of letters written to the early churches?

If Paul had been rescued from prison in Rome, the whole praetorium guard would not have heard the message of Christ. He wrote “I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear” (Philippians 1:12-14, ESV).

If Joseph had never been sold in slavery and imprisoned, how many people would have died from famine?

If the early church had not been persecuted and driven from their homes, would the gospel have spread throughout the known world?

Believers in China face terrible opposition, yet a Chinese Christian wrote, “Instead of focusing our prayers against any political system, we pray that regardless of what happens to us, we will be pleasing to God. Don’t pray for the persecution to stop! We shouldn’t pray for a lighter load to carry, but a stronger back to endure! Then the world will see that God is with us, empowering us to live in a way that reflects his love and power.” ~ Brother Yun[i]

My sweet friend, Marlyn, died from pancreatic cancer. Yet before she went home to the Lord, she boldly proclaimed Christ to her doctors, other patients, friends, family members, and even strangers.

The early believers prayed for boldness, courage, and fearless confidence. They prayed for those who persecuted them, prayed when they were attacked and driven from their homes. Persecution scattered the believers, and they scattered the good news. Opposition merely became opportunities to continue sharing. Suffering was seen as a blessing and they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer. They didn’t make what happened to them bigger than the message of Christ. Their faith was dangerous to the kingdom of darkness, and their faith resulted in glorious results for the Kingdom of God.

God’s ways are not our ways. God wishes none to perish without Him, and He will send His children around the world to be His hands and feet to share His eternal message of grace and love. Christ’s followers are driven from their homes, experience storms, shipwrecks, prisons, illness, and hardships without number, yet through their suffering how many lost sheep around the world hear of our Savior, Jesus Christ?

May we trust that whatever happens, God is in control and His plans are bigger than we can see. Pray for boldness, pray for courage, pray to be led by the Holy Spirit to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank You that You are a loving God. Thank You for Your salvation. Thank You that You desire all people to be saved. Help me to be bold and courageous. May Your Holy Spirit lead me to walk in Your ways, read Your word, and no matter what happens while on this earth, to share with others the good news of Your grace, mercy, and salvation through Your precious Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The post, His ways are not our ways, first appeared on lisabuffaloe.com

[i] Yun, Brother, with Hattaway, Paul, The Heavenly Man, Monarch Books, UK & USA, 2002

I’m thrilled to announce my latest release is now available on Amazon. As my first-fruit offering to the Lord, the e-Book version will be free through 6/22/22. If you are looking for encouragement, peace, and hope, stop by and pick up a copy and share with friends! https://amzn.to/3HOPXbP

Float by Faith

I would love to float in clear skies, serene, carefree, and untethered from life’s difficulties. However, the problems of this world often weigh me down.

This quote challenged me, “It is a sign of weakness to always worry and fret, question everything, and mistrust everyone. Can anything be gained by it? Don’t we only make ourselves unfit for action, and separate our minds from the ability to make wise decisions? We simply sink in our struggles when we could float by faith.” ~ Lettie Cowman

Doesn’t floating by faith sound wonderful? Yet, how do we float by faith in a world filled with anxiety, fear, frustration, anger, health issues, negative news reports, unending distractions, and other life issues?

Join me as we explore ways to be fueled by God’s joyful peace and empowered with His power to Float by Faith through the obstacles and storms of life.