Riding Tandem

The wind blew gently on my face as my bare feet became wet from the dew topped meadow. Sitting under a canopy of trees I became keenly aware of the sights and sounds surrounding me. Peace washed over me. My mind emptied of concerns, tasks, and time.

“What do you want to show me, Lord?”

He showed me a bicycle built for two. Jesus sat in the front seat. A woman was in the back. His hands were gripped on the handlebars navigating through the passageways at great exhilarating speed. Her hands, released of the handlebars, were lifted high up in the air. Unrestrained joy glowed on her face. She not only trusted the Lord, she enjoyed the ride—wholeheartedly.

“Lord, I am listening. What are you revealing?”

Trust Me in what I am about to do.

In what He is about to do? My mind went back to the last few days. I felt an overwhelming weight that something was coming—something big—something good. And not just for me, but for you, too.

I believe the woman on the bicycle represents the Bride of Christ. I believe God is about to take a turn around a bend that will launch you and me into new things. The things we have contended for in the supernatural will become realized in the natural. He is traveling at a rapid speed and therefore is beckoning us to cultivate a deepening trust with Him.

As I release my grip from the handlebars and lift my hands in worship I pray you will join me --and together we can enjoy the ride.

How is God deepening your trust in Him?

Share your journey…

Reflective Scripture

Trust in the lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

 

Relevant Worship

Here In Your Presence by New Life Worship

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

Revelation Song by Kari Jobe

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hvk0a7SqaHI

Who Knew?

“No! It’s mine.”

Out of nowhere I heard the loud shout. “It’s mine, it’s mine, it’s mine’. I was shocked at the screams of greed. Where was it coming from? Surprised I heard it come from my own heart. The tug-o-war was on. Selfishness showed strength at the start, but soon it was losing its grip. Shamefully the battle was between me and the Lord. Or so I thought. I noticed He never picked up the other end of the rope. I was fighting and losing without His pull. This wasn’t meant to be a fight. And it wasn’t a game. It was a challenge to trust.

I looked into my wallet. Twenties filled it. I pulled one out. I felt the Lord’s presence near. I knew what was coming. His voice echoed in my ear.

 All of it.

All of it, Lord? This is crazy. With His presence near I allowed my will to break. Something was happening in my spirit and I couldn’t ignore it. I looked again in my wallet.  I knew what I must do. Like ripping a band aid off a wound I quickly grabbed the cash and walked to the offering bowl.

Approaching the collection plate for an anonymous family in need of food, a little hand tugged at me. I looked down and saw the face of a little girl. “Can I put it in?” she asked. Caught off guard by this strange request, I handed her the money believing the Lord sent courage to me in the form of this young child.

Back at my seat my head spun, overwhelmed by the last few minutes. To my surprise the Lord was not done. I heard His voice just as intensely as the first time,

Share what you’ve done.

I looked up at the pastor who encouraged testimonies from the microphone. My heart fluttered. ‘I can’t do this, Lord’. As familiar as I was with public speaking, it was never without a thoughtfully prepared script. Quickly my brain started to process to give reason to what happened, yet before I could engage my thoughts Holy Spirit wiped everything clear.

Trust Me.

Through tears and an unscripted spiel I confessed to the congregation my selfishness and decision to trust Him with everything—even money. Shaking, I took my seat again. The service concluded and soon after felt an ease in my spirit. I was able to catch my breath and decide it was all worth it.

But God wasn’t done yet.

This time He was speaking to another woman.

Before I ever left the sanctuary a woman approached me. Stretching her hand out to me she said, “The Lord said this is for you.” I looked at what was in her grip. It was an envelope--a thick envelope. It all began to click. I took a step back. “No” was all I could say. I was in shock. Why would this woman give up money to feed her family? That’s crazy. Convinced she had heard from God she did not relent. As stubborn as this woman was she had an unwavering trust in God.

That night I stood in my kitchen with my well stocked pantry holding an envelope stuffed with money. Guilt washed over me. If only I had known the family was present I would have never shared. The night was filled with regret. What I thought was a journey of trusting God, now led me to doubting His ways. Why Lord? Why did any of this happen?

The next day my husband woke me out of my depression. He had since learned the church filled the family’s pantry with food. This relieved me, but I was still stuck with an insane responsibility to do something “good” with this money. I was lost in my thoughts as my husband chattered excitedly about a seminar. “What are you talking about?” I finally asked.

My husband connected the dots.

A month earlier he came across an organization for speakers and writers. A seminar was scheduled up north and he believed it would be beneficial to God’s purpose in my life. It was an impossible idea. We had zero money to chase after dreams. Not to mention intentionally pursuing my dream translated into a life of taking risks, which meant possible failure. No, I preferred comfort and predictability. The only way I could appease my husband’s excitement was to suggest if God wants me there, He will provide the money.

The envelope held the very amount we needed—plus gas money for the trip.

Apparently, God wanted me there.

A few days later I sat in the company of other writers and speakers for a three day seminar. Wouldn’t you know it—it changed my life. It single handedly launched me further into my destiny and deepened my trust in the Lord in exponential ways.

Who knew giving my all would be multiplied and returned to me? Who knew my public confession would become a marker moment in my journey? Who knew a needy family would guide me to my future? Who knew I would grow weary of comfort and predictability? Who knew a desire would birth to risk for the sake of others. Who knew?

He knew. He knew all along.

Are you willing to take a risk to pursue God’s purpose in your life?

Trust Him. He will not disappoint.

***

This blog is dedicated to the relentless woman who invested into my destiny.

***

Thank you CLASSeminars who facilitated the Lord's great work in me. www.classeminars.org

***

Post your comment here and be entered to win an autographed copy Kathi Lipp’s new book The ME Project. It’s all about pursuing your God given dream.

Deadline to enter is midnight PST on Sunday, March 13, 2011

Winner will be posted in Comment section under this blog on Monday, March 14^th

Dusting off Destiny

I saw her appear out of nowhere. There was something about her. She was a stranger, yet surprisingly familiar. The Lord’s presence drew near and time slowed as He asked me, What do you see?

I saw a simple woman—plain at that. She stood barefoot, dressed in a tank top and jeans. Her hair was unkempt and except for the smudge of mascara under her eyes she wore no make-up. She appeared to be an average woman—ordinary.

The Lord prodded for more. What do you see? I focused intensely for a few moments. Looking past her plain face I saw vulnerability. She exuded courage.

The Lord touched my heart. Once again He asked, What do you see? I felt the eyes of my heart awakening. I could now see a divine purpose deposited into her very soul. I could see her destiny.

The Lord poured His own sight into mine. What do you see? My spirit agonized at the sight. I saw hearts sinking, dying as the enemy pushed them down into a muddy pit. I saw chaos break out as hearts were captured. “Lord, this is too much. Take your sight away from me.”

Look again. This time I saw her—eyes bright and focused. There was something rising up within her.

The Lord’s sight stayed within me. This ordinary woman now radiated great power and strength. With a sword in her grip she courageously and skillfully slays the enemy one by one. As the enemy’s camp lay bloodied and defeated at her feet, hearts lifted to freedom—to victory.

In a blink of an eye she was gone. “Lord, where did she go?” I could not deny I was drawn to this stranger. Such extraordinary boldness welled up in me as I watched her fight. And I knew in my spirit there were more hearts to set free. “Will she be back, Lord?”

It’s up to you, Dear One.

“Lord?”

Beloved, she is who you are to be.

“Lord, I don’t...”

Beloved, the woman is you. It is you whom I have destined to set captives free.

Everything made sense now. The Lord allowed me to watch my own destiny. I saw what I could be if only…if only I believed…

 I trust you, Beloved. Now trust Me. It’s time. I have given you everything you need for the battle. Take your sword out of its sheath—be the warrior I have called you to be.

His gaze turned to my sword sitting dormant in the corner. Retrieving it I blew off the layers of dust. Slowly I freed the weapon from its sheath. The echo of the metal scrapping the casing took my breath away. The sound released new authority deep within. Standing with unwavering confidence I caught my reflection in the unused blade. It was her—she was pleading me to lift my sword, to enter the battle, to set the captives free.

Looking up my eyes met with my Lord’s. I felt power and strength rising from His adoration and approval. It was time.

Beloved, this is your destiny. I will be with you—always. Now go, many hearts are waiting to be set free.

What has God called you to?

There’s a world waiting for you to walk in your destiny…

Reflective Scripture

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for He has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free. Luke 4:18

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Relevant Worship

Where You Go I Go by Kim Walker-Smith/Jesus Culture

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2U3PU-E32E

 

Holding Out

There was a phone call, a plane flight, and a reunion. Sitting across from each other we laughed and talked the hours away. So much had happened in three years. Then came a moment his words became serious and even mysterious. He reached into his pocket to answer my silent suspicions. The reflection of the firelight flickered on the gold band he held between his fingers. It had been his mother’s. The moment was right out of a movie script. This was my chance to be center stage and play the part I’ve always dreamed—Loved. The look on his face was priceless, as was mine. Something told me not to accept and hold out for something more. I had no words for him—no words his heart hoped to hear. Sorrow came upon his face. And the gold band hastily put away.

The drive to the airport was quiet. The pending good-bye scene loomed over us. I thought about my friend. He had taken a risk--a huge one at that. He traveled across the globe to declare a pledge of love with hopes of bringing me to his homeland.

I could not ignore the fact I too had taken a risk. I said no. What if he was the one? What if I just let the last good one get away? What if there isn’t something more? What if God breaks His promise? What if?

As these thoughts entered my mind they left just as quickly. An unexplainable peace consumed all my what-if’s. Something, Someone told me it was going to be okay. I hoped and prayed my friend would feel the same. That day he flew home alone to Christchurch, New Zealand. And I stayed home in California—and waited for God to be faithful to His promise. As each day passed a beautiful quietness swept over my heart. I felt the Lord’s delight in me because I honored His plea to hold out for something more.

Just a few short weeks later I bumped into an exuberant, blue-eyed German—at church. He had rosy cheeks, an injured knee and he seemed to enjoy his own jokes—and well, I did too. He was different from other guys—and nothing at all like me. And strangely, I was okay with it. I’m not sure at what point I noticed. But his eyes would twinkle when he talked to me. It was as if the Lord spotlighted this twinkle to catch my attention and say—he is your something more.

Seventeen years later I can look back and say that yes, that, exuberant, blue-eyed German added more to my life. He has challenged me through my fears and believed in me when I didn’t. Without him I would still be a timid woman longing to make a difference in the world, yet never daring to. I am loved, yes, and I am changed. Who knew one man would have such an impact on my life? God knew. He knew something more would be just around the corner.

What is the something more God has promised you?

Laura Krämer is a speaker, writer, and designer of The Psalm 23 Bracelet. She lives happily in Southern California with her 2 sons and German husband of 14 years.

Reflective Scripture

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

Those who honor me I will honor. 1 Samuel 2:30

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

What God is Saying to Me (and probably to you, too)

Be still and know that I am God.

I’ve got this one, Beloved. Release your grip on circumstances. Allow Me to guide you. I am bigger and more powerful than anything you are facing.

Be still and know that i am

Remember Me, child. Remember who i am. i am Provider, Protector, and the Prince of Peace. i am Faithful, Freedom, and Forgiver of your sins. i am Holy, Healer, and your every Hope.

Be still and know

I know where you’ve been. I know where you are. I know where you are going. Trust Me, Dear One, I know what I’m doing.

Be still

Shhhh, hush, child, it’s all going to be okay.

Be

Come and be with Me, Beloved. It’s all My heart longs for and everything your heart needs.

What is God saying to you?

Reflective Scripture

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

Relevant Worship

Be Still and Know by Steven Curtis Chapman

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C01lLxEo3xM

Our God by Chris Tomlin

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_t_87NyHx0

Too Busy for Jesus

I sat in my office surveying the endless piles demanding my attention. A glance to the calendar showed me nonstop activities all month. Feeling overwhelmed, I turned back to my computer to catch up on never-ending emails. Immediately, I felt a holy nudge.

“In a minute, Lord,” I said.

I paused in my spirit. How many times have I put the Lord off for one more email, one more phone call, or one more task? I knew the truth. The load of my day tends to guide me more than the One who created the day. I grieved knowing there were many moments I ignored His request to draw near.

I pushed away from my computer knowing the pile of endless tasks would be waiting for me in the morning. Jesus longed for my undivided attention. I dropped to my knees and entered into a time of worship with my Lord. I felt my heart align with His as He ministered to me and restored me.

Twenty minutes later I opened my eyes. My office looked the same. The in box was full and the undertaking massive. Yet, I was changed. Personal renewal filled my heart by simply bending a knee and drawing near to Him.

He longs to be close to you today. Will you draw near? Will you?

Reflective Scripture

Come near to God and He will come near to you. James 4:8

Soaking Music

Drink of You by Laura Rhinehart

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

Jesus in the Pit

My knees gave out as I walked inside the house. No longer could I bear the weight of the hurt. I dropped to the floor bursting in tears as the pain ripped throughout my body. Distraught, Dad rushed toward me. My world faded before my eyes. He held me all night as I suffered from a broken heart. He knew more than anyone how time would help heal my wound, but in the moment pain was all I knew.

My heart took another hit at the sight of my diamond ring. Strange how it seemed to dull in brilliance as each moment passed. Was this really happening? Was this real? Grief welled up and more tears flowed. He did this—to me.

It wasn’t fair.

His gift was a promise to love me forever. He was my everything. He was my security and my hope. He was my rescuer. I believed his love would fix me. My very soul was bound to this man. He was my savior. How would I ever live without him? If he didn’t love me—I would surely die.

Days and nights blurred together as sorrow led my steps. Tears clouded my vision. Rebellion drove me deeper into the dark pit. I needed help. Where do I go? Despite the many friendships I had long abandoned there was one who listened to my troubles. She took me to the one place help was guaranteed.

Sitting in a converted church of a school gymnasium I clung to every word the pastor spoke. A broken heart became a passageway for heaven to enter in. Freedom, forgiveness and healing—I wanted it all. “Lord, I surrender.”

Right before my eyes He stepped into my pit. His glistening garments lit up the walls marked with heartbreak, pain, and rebellion. It wasn’t until that moment did I realize how dirty and tattered I had become. Without any mention of my appearance He scooped me up in His arms and effortlessly stepped out into the light and set me on my feet. I immediately noticed the transformation in my attire. Made of the richest fabrics my gown glowed. How could this be? For the first time I looked up at His face seeking an answer to this mystery. He looked not at me, but to the horizon. As I followed His gaze His answer became clear.

My heart froze at the sight of the cross. Strange how doom faded into hope as each moment passed. This really happened. This was real. Gratitude welled up and more tears flowed. He did this—for me.

Considering the cost, it really wasn’t fair—yet still…

His sacrifice was a promise to love me forever. He is my everything. He is my security and my hope. He is my Redeemer. I know His love heals me. My very destiny is determined by this Man. He is my Savior. I will never live without Him. Because He loves me—I will surely live.

Will you invite Jesus into your pit?

Reflective Scriptures

I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Psalm 40:1-3

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness. Isaiah 61:10

Soaking Music

Why? by Nichole Nordeman

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UIFGFimkKo&NR=1

Love Came Down by Brian Johnson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifeJRC5lvhs