“Could You Please Simply Sit Still?”

Lead them in Peace,

Walk them in Light,

               Listen through Love,

                                          We'll find Him in our sights….

 

Could You Please Just Sit Still?

We are thinking honestly about how to be a person of integrity. In considering the book of Galatians we have found some guiding principles to keep us on the right path. We have discussed how we usually know the right thing to do and I will even venture to say desire, to some degree, to actually follow through. If I believe that I am squeezed between a rock and a hard place. (Rather like "the space between what is above and below" we have been using as an analogy, right?) So what happens in this point of pressure? If you are anything like me, you want to run out from between the pressure points!

God’s word tells us we are pressed on all sides but not crushed. That does not sound like someone running around flailing as if they are dodging bullets to me. It sounds as if the person is grounded in one place; enduring the constant pressure and discomfort from all sides even if the forces bring them to the point of pain. Hence the encouraging scripture written for our remembrance - when you have done all to stand, stand! Not Run.........Stand!

Take a moment to pause, reflect on this before we get back into our letter of encouraging wisdom from Galatians:

We don’t have to move to find God...... He is already here. Our emotions want us to feel as if we "have to" go to someone, some place or some thing; when all we have to do is acknowledge, “in the moment”, His presence. Where in the world are we going when we say we have to go “find” God? To who on earth can we flee to, who can save us? As Peter said when Christ asked “are you going to leave me too?”,  “Lord, to who else would we go; you have the words to eternal life?”

When the rubber of your tire hits the road, where do you choose to go – toward the land of life, or back onto the road leading you through the moments into death?

We are such emotionally driven beings. Remember back in the “Deeply” series when we talked about how our emotions are directional tool for navigation, not the gasoline that makes us go? Today we are going to look at “What your life will look like or feel like when you and the Holy Ghost are in the groove moving along the heavenly highway.

This we know, there will be times when:

We believe God’s blessings are on the way; they simply have not reached us yet.
We will feel the need to be rescued perhaps -even feel it is necessary to remind Him of His promises.
We will feel insecure when others insult us for what we believe. This discomfort will stimulate a desire to shut them up or force “proof” that our trust is not foolish, which in our impatience we exemplify the foolishness of what we profess.
We will know we cannot do this in our own power and be afraid that we might not be able to hold on; well we cannot in our own strength; which means we must remember all His truth, speak it with the same conviction even if we are being emotionally / sometime physically pummeled.
This is when God says – AH I am starting to see something brilliant, their sparkle is showing. Our hope is what He sees – it alone radiates as the true witness to others as we keep choosing the steps of His principles which are before us, guiding us.
We will choose to speak about His word no matter the presumed power of those we are facing.
We will lift our hands to unite in love - as we pray to God who delivers all by His hand, in love.
We will remember and believe that our hope will push us through; hoist us up to a higher vantage point which will comfort us when we are enduring miserable, sorry conditions.
We will see that this is the journey from plight to flight. We will acknowledge that He has been moving us away from crawling along inch by inch into the ability to cover miles by simply the flap of a wing.

So bring all this to remembrance when arrogant people mock you or foolish people are cruel. Be on alert that evil is crouching, desiring to have its way with you. Instead of swaying from Peters resolve take his same path; use the protectors which kept him going straight:

Look away from their face and look into the face of God.
Do not listen to their lies, remember His truth.
Quickly remember how difficult, frustrating it was for you as you grew to the point where you are.
Quickly reflect on the joy you felt when you passed beyond the pressure, confusion and into the clarity, peace and joy on the other side.
When your anger burns because of wicked people who abandon His principles of love, remember that because of His mercy and instruction you are now above reproach. Remember that this is no longer your home; it is their home.
Be quick to pray for them, for their soul is overwhelmed with an endless longing for His regulations and they do not even understand that.
Remember that now our inheritance has nothing to do with this world. Our inheritance is the Lord God Almighty Himself! So we have nothing to fight over with them – they can have it all!
Choose to fight the good fight, seek to win Gods favor – request the kindness He promises to ease your pain and suffering.
Thank God for His mercy and loving-kindness to direct your feet back to His perfect will when you desire to enter into this unjust battle field.
Reflect on your life and your ways unto Him
Without hesitation run back to His principles – do not forget that they have set a snare which ties quickly around you.

I can hear some of you ask, “What should I do if I was confused, did not run fast enough or was deceived and became ensnared?” Good question and God has the answer:

Don’t Panic! Be Still! Forget about the trap, focus on fully remembering what you have been taught – don’t fall for the second part of their trap: The fear of Him not rescuing you!
When your nights are sleepless, don’t waste the time “wake up Oh sleeper!" as God says and give thanks to Him for His righteous written word which regulates ALL things.
Remember that even where you are bound up there are others within ear reach or sight that fears the Lord; who follow His guiding principles. As you seek to remember, find them, be there for them and allow them to be there for you – His mercy fills the earth!
Lastly, ask God to teach you more as you are paused in your “moments in between” from where you came from to where you are going. Reflect on His grace, be grateful that He will never leave you nor forsake you – Know that All Things are ALL Right!

• Even in your misery you found a friend or comfort – praise God that He heard your request for kindness and showed up with His faithful promise in your time of need.
• Request that He teach you to use Good Judgment and knowledge because you believe in His principles and guidance.
• Talk to Him about how you used to wander off before He allowed you to suffer.
• Bring to His remembrance and yours how you have grown beyond that – now you cling to His word, you keep it set before you desiring to not turn away from it.
• Speak of His goodness and how He does good things as you request to be taught His governing laws of life.
• Speak to Him about what you’ve seen and the value of His authority over all things
  1. Arrogant people smear me with lies
  2. Their hearts are cold and insensitive
  3. It is Good to suffer for awhile in order to learn the truth
  4. His ways are higher than our vanity and our riches are worthless in comparison to His wisdom
  5. Give praise to Him in honor and glory for creating you as you are – what you are and ask that He help you understand so that you may learn His commandment of loving-kindness
  6. Tell Him you desire all this, so that those who fear Him will see you and rejoice because your hope is grounded in the base of His truth, His word, His promise and His faithfulness
  7. Speak of how fair, righteous and just He is to allow you to learn in through protected experiences
  8. Ask for His mercy to comfort you as He promised
  9. Request His compassion to reach you right in these moments so that you may live and thrive by His instruction, energy and successful break through
  10. Ask that He show up as your mighty deliverance even as you reflect His image in all ways to: humble their arrogance,  speak truth covering their lies, change their vision, soften their heart so that they may fear the Lord and turn back toward you in hopes of seeing the way to Him
  11. Ask that your heart be filled with integrity in regard to His guiding principles so that you are above reproach

Do not turn away from God to face them; remember you must be heading them away from where they are! Show them the way, as YOU were shown, right from the beginning.

My Aunt Bonnie took the time to write down these quotes for me to share with you all, she thought they might bring you encouragement at some point (thank God for inherited family =D):

If you are going through Hell, keep going. – Winston Churchill

Do one thing every day that scares you. – Eleanor Roosevelt

I know this was a lot of information, but it is not a onetime read. Neither is the bible, by the way (wow that was a bit snarky – anyone have a spare “snark princess” tiara? I pray you forgive me….) Honestly, that was as much a reminder to myself as anyone else; but you already knew that, right =D)

Today I pray that your faith not fail. I ask you to pray fervently; Satan at times demands to sift us like wheat. I ask you to not fall asleep in your sorrow, but to be alert – aware that evil is crouching at your door waiting for that moment!

Tomorrow we will look at the bumpers which keep us on His lane when our faith happens to flail. Till then “Keep the peace!” No one will be lost on Christ’ watch, we know that in advance.

I pray that we Lead them in Peace, Walk them in Light, Listen through Love – because this is Good in His sight….

With Love, desiring to stimulate you toward Goodness….for Goodness Sake =D
Kisses,
Candace

©2011Candace Huffmaster, All Rights Reserved

Discipline and Button Pushers

It had been my opinion that some people have been gifted to write, and the rest of us are gifted to read and enjoy their gifts. There are also those who have ideas with desire to write and just keep honing their skills.   However, as gifted as some may be, without discipline, writing usually will not not get done. It is my opinion that I fall into the later category and I have allowed the discipline for developing this skill to be replaced by other priorities. Thank you for your grace as I attempt to get going again.

As I pondered these thoughts regarding the written word, thoughts expanded into the words we speak.  We do not have to be gifted speakers to talk; however, to do it well takes effort. To speaking the truth in love might be the hardest discipline for most of us.

An individual could be the wisest, most knowledgeable person around. However, if they are attempting to connect with others they must develop some relational skills to accompany knowledge.  The bible calls this discipline “speaking the truth in love”.  This means we must exercise discernment, empathy, humility, kindness and be peaceable in the character of the Lord God who IS Love.

Of course this can only apply to the children of God, because apart from God, though He loves us, His love is not within us.  Also, without God we do not have His peace, nor the help of His Spirit within us to depend upon.  It is no wonder there are such relational problems and devastation going on around us.  And this is what led me to thinking about how we speak / relate to each other and it being the hardest discipline – in my opinion.

Think about the difference between worldly self-control (controlling ourselves and others to get our desired outcome) and the fruit of the Spirit self-control (controlling ourselves, being obedient to His Ways, through dependency on God and faith in His will for us all). If we join in the work the Father is doing within us, through His Spirit, instead of grieving the Spirit, everyone around us is touched by His power.  No doubt, this is the reason we are constantly being challenged in this area; as well as being the challenger at times. How often are we tempted to do the fleshly / emotional thing, throwing love and, dare I say, even total truth out the window.

We know that God does not spin out of control, nor is He caught off guard.  Instead He uses what is “intended” for evil, for good. God uses opportunities such as these to test us, grow us and if we persevere, as James says, we will be more mature. The end result will be the growth of the fruit of the Spirit to the Glory of God – these thoughts fills me with great joy; how about you?

All this being said, it is not easy to pause when being emotionally challenged; becoming passive is not the goal either. We should aspire to be active in prayer – asking God to work in the silence, the space between and within us and others.  When we do speak, that it is beneficial (truth without drama), and it is His character which carries the truth into the presence of others.  

Beyond these moments we must keep our peace and leave matters between others and their m/Master. Trust that God is so much larger and present than the temporary afflictions we face.  While some problems are truly enormous that we are going through, most of the problems pressing our buttons are the small things; the things we choose not to navigate with an attitude of forgiveness – even if we cannot be in a fruitful relationship with the person (we will dive into this on another day). God is not allowing others to be in control of His will; we should not either.  We can be a child of God with the character of God, no matter who is pushing our buttons.

So today, it is my prayer for us all, that when pressed - we will allow their pressure to be a release button and begin to live liberated in Christ Jesus, our Lord – To Him be all the Glory now and forevermore.

Kisses,

Candace

Scriptures to meditate on – please share any others and your thoughts, experiences etc.

·         Book of James - specific verses of note: 1: 2-4, 12- 14,  4:8,  6: 18-21

·         1 John  - 3:7, 4:8

·         1 Corinthians – 9:23-27, chapter 13

·         2 Corinthians – 3:17,18, chapter 4

 

 

What's Your Story?

If you have been involved in our conversations for any time at all, you know we lean on the story lines to learn.  Not too long ago we discussed that each of us are telling a story constantly.  This is what conversation and relationship is....storytelling.  We tell the moments of our days over and over and over again.  What tales are you spinning for the world to glean from?  Whether you expect it or not, someone IS leaning on your storyline.  Will it hold them up, or drop them flat on their face?  We know that only when our words align with God's will they truly be" an ever ready help in someones time of need". Let's not be telling an erroneous story line.  Know the story being told - we are accountable for each and every word which comes from our mouth, the thoughts of our mind and the intent of our heart.  That is the truth no matter what we tell ourselves or others.   It is so.....and so it is!

In Chapter 4 of Mark we see that Jesus is again teaching by the Sea of Galilee:

A very large crow gathered around him, so he got into a boat and sat in it.  The boat was in the water while the entire crowd lined the shore.  He used stories as illustrations to teach them many things.

While he was teaching them, he said, "LISTEN!" 

He added, "Let the person who has ears listen!"

When he was alone with his followers and the twelve apostles they asked him about the stories.  Jesus replied to them.  " The mystery about the kingdom of God has been given directly to you. To those on the outside, it is given in stories:

They see clearly but don't perceive.

They hear clearly but don't understand. 

They never return to me and are never forgiven."

Jesus asked them, "Don't you understand this story?"  How, then, will you understand ANY of the stories I use as illustrations?

Can you imagine His concern?  There is a difference between seeing clearly but not perceiving and not seeing clearly therefore you cannot perceive.

There is a difference between hearing clearly but not caring enough to think on the complexity beyond the obvious and listening with intent to wait until you understand the fullness of the one speaking to you.

There is a difference between never returning to God so that you are forgiven and not knowing God of that you need His forgiveness.

Do you understand?

God is the creator of ALL things, and He has planted His truth within all creation.  Some people who hear the word do not hear it clearly and Satan comes to be sure there is distortion.  The person does not understand the truth and therefore plants the distortion which leads them astray....

There is another person who received the truth but they do not understand.  Their heart is hardened.  They apply the word based on their understanding not on God's truth.  Then what they believe in, when put to the test fails them and they blame God.

Then another person hears the word, but there is static.  They believe they hear correctly, but when they have such success in the world and they listen tuned in to the channel of static and annoyance, they hear something contrary to their own mind set.  They decide that they didn't hear correctly because what they are doing is working, so they force the truth down. 

The last person hears clearly, understand what they hear because they patiently tune to the correct station.  They have no preconceived storyline, they are tuning their ears to every clear word spoken before surmising one detail.  They freely give into Gods will and the truth of God prospers at HIS will!

Why would we think that God would put truth in His creation and not raise it up to BE light?  He must have pure, incorruptible, iridescence though.  Otherwise it will not lead them or others the "correct way".  But, at the right time, which is when each person returns to Him and is forgiven, they will begin to grow: 30, 60 and then 100 fold as HE prospers them.  He grows them from glory to glory to glory because knowing and forgiveness increases understanding of His mysteries.

When you understand He will give you more.  But for those who don't return to Him after they know, He takes all that He gave away from them.  He transfers what is produced into the ground of His faithful fields. The glorious thing is that the person who was faithful with the 30, working Gods way, gleans understanding which prospers another 60 percent.  And when continuing to be faithful with this 60 percent, they rest in peace and awaken to see God's display of the 100 fold; which is a combination of their efforts plus the abundance of all else that God desires to grace them with for His good works. 

There are several key scriptures commonly employed on the subject of planting, harvest, faithfulness and stewardship to God.  In Malachi, He asks a nation to test Him on giving away their material gain.  The catch was it had to be giving a gift to God, not purchasing a gift FROM God.  He desired them to see that there was "in deed" a difference.  Matthew 19:29 states:

And everyone who gave up homes, brothers or sister, father or mother, children or fields because of My name will receive a hundred times more and will inherit eternal life. 

Matthew 6:33 states:

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be given to you as well.

We are not going to get into the scriptures on the faithless today, that is for later in Mark.

This is a great day for the Kingdom of God because the faithful insignificant servant (in the worlds eyes), the least of  the blessed (in their opinion), will grow up taller than all the rest.  They will provide shelter and shade which reaches a great span, height providing for others in a mighty way.  All because of God's love, purpose, provision, goodness, faithfulness, power and sovereignty.  Remember that this Good Friday and crawl up under His blanket of love.

Christ has covered a multitude of sins, once and for all - Let's give Him praise and were His glory with pride!

With Love, know He calls you His delight and believe!

Kisses,

Candace



©Candace Huffmaster 2012, All Copyrights Reserved

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc™

Praise in Pros

Conversations With My Dad:
Journal Entry Monday March 14, 2011

Good Morning Daddy~

I thank you that all that you are is more than enough for all our needs.  I praise you for loving  us unconditionally.  The joy in my heart raises my eyes to see, that nothing can come between us due to your divine care.  Circumstance or situations will never command my will to forsake you in fear of their strength.  The only voice I will follow is your voice which rescued me.

The others are your enemy and from them you protect all.  Your body cannot be harmed ~ and I am cupped in your strong embrace.  Your mighty arm lifts me high above where they are bound.  Your Kindgdom each day comes to save us from this place.

Be alive and well in each of us this day.  You are - the Great I Am.  I Am, becuase you are.  I believe in what you have said, spoken in compassion and Love.  Your son came to deliver all.  May He live in Spirit through our souls.  He is our head and Way, your Spirit increases in strength.  Together we are the One, Leading all into your Shekinah glory and grace.

Shine bright this day my Lord.  May I help you prepare their feast.  The words that give life in full: their salvation, their provision, their peace.  Fill their minds, etch their hearts,bind around their wrists, adorn their necks ~ cover them in your Love.  Oh, the joy that will spill into our streets!

Lord God Almighty reigns.  He is alive in the moments of this day.  Look for Him as you go on your way.  Merge with Him as He serves.  He is feeding the masses in many small ways.  Sometimes He requests your voice, other times the glance of your face.  Always the prayers of your lips and the gentleness of your able hands.

Nothing He asks is too small.  Nothing He gives will fall short.  Always an ever present help.  Never forsaking their needs. 

Our God is King of Kings.  Our Lord is Lord of Lords.  His Spirit is Almighty in all ways.  Let us humble ourselves as we participate, in the delightful work of His will.  Hosannah in the Highest ~ yet a mere servant amidst human forms.  This is the King that we serve; this is the Mighty I Am.

Live strong in us; raise us up.  Perch our ears to hear you speak. Clutch our soul within your Spirits strength.  Move us in harmony and peace to achieve your grand plans.  Your vision is all that we need.  Our obedience is at your command. 

Let it be done to us one and all; as you will provide and delight.  For this day is your alone, and you give it so all might be blessed.

In Christ alone, we are with you.  Through all you are, we are One.
Amen,
Candace

Love is Unconditional, Relationships are Conditional

Good Morning - I want to take a moment to wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving.  It is possible I will not post anything in preparation of an early meal (YIPPEE!!) 

Many of the e-mails bounced back from this post - no surprise since I was sending it from my BB device.  In order for you to understand the full meaning of today's post you need this part - If you already read this simply skip down below the second dotted line for today's information.

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Saturday November 19, 2011

Still pressed for time and have not been able to get these things proofed and loaded.  I have to pick back up and just send them as they are. These all lead into each other - and usually I take them "from private conversations and reorganize them into generic conversations"  However, there is no time for that.

Today I will start with Oct 18th - I pray these give you whatever answers or thoughts you are requesting:

Dad,

I do love you with all of my heart - The heart that you gave me planted deep in my flesh - which enlivens my soul to think all these thoughts

Without a spirit our mortal life ends - of this no one questions - the just do not know where to begin.  You tell us the beginning you tell us our earthly end.

You speak of the spirit realm to guide all our days: to prepare us for eternal life; to choose our self you say.

I think I see something of this space in between.  It is where the path crosses - our collisions of space - the time you will not cut short- the moments of our days.

If you had not paused us on the planet of earth, given us the space to think our broken thoughts, all of us who enter here would have been separated from you - and you could not allow that so you planted, you planned the perfect place called Eden to house the broken thoughts of man.

You planted him in the east corner - you protected the gates back in - you set flaming swords at the cross road, your truth and your right hand. 

You have the Highest of Angels covering all your truth, charging any invader back from whense he came.  Of destruction there will be nothing - You've ensured that victory will last.  From beginning through all ages all is held and place by the only I AM!

Lead us as you search us - the Holy Spirit is embracing all.  Through Christ were held together - His body will never be torn - The separation was done on the cross, to this day all things are shaking - as He kicks the dust from His feet.  Each day He fights this good fight and we pass through the shifting sands of time - to Be sifted, shaken and polished for His glorious head to shine.

The crown He wears is not ashes - no longer thorns ground from this found.  We are now brilliant gem stones and He displays us all with eternal pride.

Think about this and I will send the last part when I get back to my computer today.

With love and a holy kiss,

Candace

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East of Eden I planted man; my heart I riped to give him; My choice - by my very hand

If not for my deep pleasure of a birth, even I knew pain,these things we would not be mentioning; My all would have been into Me.

In that I found no good thing; for I had love too large to hold. It became useless and so heavy when it weighed upon me.

I created man to share it  - to carry it throughout their days; to teach them of its good pleasures of the liberty without the weight ~ but they must see past their own love or they will be buried by the pounds..... The pulse of every rivet as it presses them into the ground.

Water will surely save them - for it washes away the earth ~ Just as the family of Noah who I also gave a second birth. 

Then there too was Jonah who's life had a whale sized love - It sank Him straight to the bottom; it bound him to take his last breath; but through the waves I released him to take a second chance.

Though you walk at times through deep valleys and at times the desert seems hot ~ believe me when I tell you there are things you do not WANT to know.  While knowledge seems inviting ~ to understand evil seems sound ~ the only Tree worth its value is the Tree that brings you life.

The tree of choice bore all burdens ~ His blood cleansed the choice that was made.  You now have the chance to choose Eden ~ the home of the (7?) streams.  Walk in; between the cherubim ~ for their arrows will not touch your head ~ inside are my children and great pleasure ~ your family, your friends, your TRUE life.

Be Well - because all is Right.

Kisses C~

Duet 28:7  The Lord will cause your enemies who rise up against you to be defeated before you; they shall come out against you one way and shall flee before you 7 ways.

In Memory of Rebecca Sloan

The celebration of Rebecca's life was just as you would expect, as embracing as her wonderful hugs and filled with the easiness of her laughter.  Family and life long friends were welcoming to those of us who are relatively new friendships in comparison.  Their photo display shared the wealth of lovely times between Rebecca and all those she held most near and dear, which was such a treat!  I know if it is possible Rebecca was watching us and saying this is what it is all about....everyone I love under one roof with a common goal and all else laid aside.

Donna and Beth spoke about their deep love for Rebecca and what an incredible impact her friendship was to their lives.  They shared almost in unison their mutual beliefs and faith and I know just like Rebecca that is where their hope rests. They requested that we all support Allen as he continues to raise their boys, knowing the journey they are embarking on isn't for the faint of heart.  Donna reminded Allen of her confidence in his abilities as a father and that while he and Rebecca had their differences they had a strong mutual love for their amazing sons. 

Brother Brooks gave a wonderful eulogy, filled with all the heart felt points that Rebecca would have wanted.  He spoke of life explaining how Rebecca will never have to die again.She is alive for all eternity, it is us who are daily facing what our friend has already overcome. A few years ago his son passed away and he could imagine them up there together trying to get our attention to let us know they are absolutely fine; not to worry. He encouraged us all to look forward to the day we enter into the true home of our eternity.

The selection of music was perfect: Vince Gill, Go Rest High On That Mountain - Casting Crowns, Oh Glorious Day and Chris Tomlin's version of Amazing Grace.  We all know Rebecca had the volume cranked up and was belting out Oh Glorious Day right along with Chris!

Clair spoke about many wonderful times shared with Rebecca and how "everyone" gets mothered by her inexhaustible ability to be strong when there is a vulnerability. I am very glad that she was there and able to articulate these precious moments so that the family and friends who have been there for Rebecca form the majority of her life got a glimpse into the impact that their dear loved one had on others recently.

I spoke about Rebecca's love for words, truth and God's love.  Knowing that her hope was unable to be extinguished even in her darkest, most fragile moments because of Christ's victory in her life.  I encouraged us all to continue to press on and love as she would, encourage others as she would have, give deep friendship, loyalty, kindness to everyone ......everywhere.  That is the example that Rebecca followed and if we are to follow those same foot prints we will be unified in that eternal love which has no beginning or end.  I also shared that because of our great loss, we know we are stronger than we thought - ironically we also find we are more fragile than we thought.  However, I personally have gained a deeper understanding of my need for Love to be real, and for our faith not to fail.  I also shared a piece from CS Lewis's writings - The Problem of Pain.  Rebecca used to like me to read to her when she was really stressed or confused she stated that brought her comfort and peace.  For what ever reason it had that effect on her I am grateful - and I will be forever blessed by knowing her. 

I close with the writing of CS Lewis and pray that you give your journey into the hands of Him that helps us all find comfort:

The golden apple of selfhood, thrown among the false gods, became an apple of discord because they scrambled for it.  They did not know the first rule of the holy game, which is that every player must by all means touch the ball and then immediately pass it on.  To be found with it in your hands is a fault: to cling to it, death.  But when it flies to and fro among the players too swift for eye to follow, and the great master Himself leads the revelry, giving Himself eternally to His creatures in the generation, and back to Himself in the sacrifice, of the Word, then indeed the eternal dance 'makes heaven drowsy with the harmony'.  All pains and pleasures we have known on earth are early initiations in the movements of that dance: but the dance itself is strictly incomparable with the sufferings of this present time.  As we draw nearer to its uncreated rhythm, pain and pleasure sink almost out of sight.  There is joy in the dance, but it does not exist for the sake of joy.  It does not even exist for the sake of good, or of love.  It is Love Himself, and Good Himself, and therefore happy.  It does not exist for us, but we for it.

I know that Rebecca knew she was created first and foremost for Him alone to have a relationship with, all the rest is icing on a heavenly cake!

~Kisses, Candace

What are YOU looking at!

Mason chose the devotional for  today it is from T.D. Jake's "Strength for Every Moment". I too love how T.D. is so incredibly straight forward. He does not say too many words so that we are confused and have to read between the lines. As I type that do not think I do not realize the irony coming from my fingers "the woman with so many words"


It is hard for us to look at ourselves . Understandably so, we are with ourselves all day long 24/7. I think that is one reason we look at everyone else. Our thought life is constantly convicting and if not wrangled will start to turn into self loathing - so we deflect our thoughts. We just don't get it....He continually tries to explain it to us.

I pray today that we take our eyes of others and even ourselves to put them onto our Lord. Let us focus on His love, not the brokennes this world causes in each of us. He is the healer and lover of our souls. That in all moments is where we should strive to live from.

With the Love of our Christ, may we touch someone in His love today so that He is see in as the very real God that He is.

Candace

Renew Your Strength

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might he gives strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:29-31

When your pity party is over and you are ready for His help, God will say "Don't you know? Haven't you heard who I am - the everlasting God? I am the creator of the universe. I am not a child; I am not a school-boy- I am God. Who do you think you are fooling? I'm God. I held your breath in the palm of My hands. I created your body, I heat your blood just hot enough to keep you alive but not so hot that you die. Who else do you allow to control your life? If it is not Me, then who? I love you. I created you in My image. I am that I Am."

What more does the Lord have to do to show you He love you? Don't let satan continue to fool you into thinking that the God has forsaken you.

Stop doing things that you don't have any business doing. Repent and confess your sins instead of spending the time pointing out the sins of everyone else. Admit that you have fallen so that your healing may begin.

                                                 ____________________________________

The Essence of Beauty

The essence of beauty is as wide as it is deep,

Multiplicity of color, radiance beyond belief,

Simple to our vision, explosive to the mind,

Alive when implanted into the tenderness inside.

Fingers touch and capture a memory shared between,

Smells engulf the soul and rise up within our air,

The full body of all emotions, encapsulated, mystically, in a tear,

Pure essence of the senses rush through our being like a birth,

Truth that is unstoppable, a manifestation of all that is unseen,

Whirling winds of majestic moments giving life by the lover’s heart,

Silence is all that is able because mere words cannot relate.

By Candace Huffmaster

People, Circumstances, Logic and Peace

When we truly believe and have faith in the promise of our eternity being clutched in the strong, righteous, loving, just and faithful Lord God Almighty will we really live in peace, no matter what is imploring us to release it? 

 Obviously, we would like there to be an easy yes or no answer.  However, there is a tremendous journey, across treacherous terrine, to discover our individual final answer. Do you think the answer is more fluid than constant?  We desire our peace to be this steady, however peace is only as stable as whatever secures it.  If we have peace of this world, it is dependent upon us, and all various people and circumstances. If it is the peace of God, He secures us.  Our ability to trust and stand firm is secured to what we know, believe and trust. And yet we're told to live by faith not by sight. If all I have securing my peace is what I see, hear, feel around me, I would be overwhelmed when feeling pressures, difficulties, hardships, or pain. In these same type moments, when I begin with God's truth and my faith, my viewpoint begins with hope and connectivity.  

 What about when things are begging you to let go of peace and God feels as though He's left the building, or planet?  That feeling of having no space, yet too much space between me and God. n times such as these, I think about how long ago in the distant past God created life. And from where I am, in that moment, eternity with Him seems like a fairy tale.  Yet here I am!  And I know He is real, as real as what I am feeling in the present. Then I picture a bridge coming up to me from creation and one out from me leading toward tomorrow. It is here where I feel so small and God feels so BIG! 

 If I think about the words of Christ, He promised that His kingdom was at hand.  God's word tells us Christ left the world in order that we could have His eternal Spirit present within us, right here.  2 Corinthians 5:5 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose gave to us the Spirit as a pledge".  So, we believe He is not far away out there somewhere. For the beliefs, we have to become faith, we need to have experiences. And when we experience that His truth is real it becomes trust. It is this trust we’re building that bridges us to Him and other believers. 

 Maybe rather than seeking black and white answers, we view these matters as our preparation. It is my hope that we enter each experience believing the Spirit is within us as God pledged and trust in His purposes for whatever is happening. 

 Another creative thought I have, which probably isn't theological, which gives me peace, is thinking of God outside of linear time. Then picturing Him gazing upon all our fluid pieces as if watching the shifting shapes within a kaleidoscope. I instantly become more relaxed and less focused on the troubles. When He is in my thoughts, His peace is allowed to secure me.  

Moving With the Spirit within us takes His power, not ours.  And knowing, or believing, that truth is not the same as abiding in the Spirit.  Yet, God see's us, understands our struggles and loves us in all the same.  

 I am so grateful for His mercy and grace to continue homeward.

 Read 2 Corinthians chapters 4 and 5. Share your thoughts with us all, please.

In Christ,

Candace 

I'm a Donkey on the Edge

Yesterday we stopped our conversation with Job being on the ledge.  Desiring to believe the best of Eliphaz, I assume this was his best attempt to talk Job down.  As we noted yesterday, his approach is a bit lacking.  Just when he should have stopped and given Job a moment to process ......he kicks the gas petal and runs him down.  And he goes on......and on.....and on for somewhere around 43 verses give or take.   I rather envision Mr Crisis coming through town. (If you were not with us, look back in the archives).  Sometimes our relationships seem as though they are nothing more than a "stubborn mule".  But we must take our eyes off the individuals and realize the true battle going on.  If you have not believed me when I have talked about being aware of the voices you are listening to - those in your "memory" or "conversations" going on and no one is there (role playing in your imagination) understand those thoughts ARE coming from something.  Still don't believe me....... here is a real example:

Eliphaz on his soap box delivered this:
7 “Remember now, who ever perished being innocent?


Or where were the upright destroyed?

8 “According to what I have seen, those who plow iniquity

And those who sow trouble harvest it.

9 “By the breath of God they perish,

And by the blast of His anger they come to an end.

10 “The roaring of the lion and the voice of the fierce lion,

And the teeth of the young lions are broken.

11 “The lion perishes for lack of prey,

And the whelps of the lioness are scattered.

12 “Now a word was brought to me stealthily,

And my ear received a whisper of it.

13 “Amid disquieting thoughts from the visions of the night,

When deep sleep falls on men,

14 Dread came upon me, and trembling,

And made all my bones shake.

15 “Then a spirit passed by my face;

The hair of my flesh bristled up.

16 “It stood still, but I could not discern its appearance;

A form was before my eyes;

There was silence, then I heard a voice:

17 ‘Can mankind be just before God?

Can a man be pure before his Maker?

18 ‘He puts no trust even in His servants;

And against His angels He charges error.

19 ‘How much more those who dwell in houses of clay,

Whose foundation is in the dust,

Who are crushed before the moth!

20 Between morning and evening they are broken in pieces;

Unobserved, they perish forever.

21 ‘Is not their tent-cord plucked up within them?

They die, yet without wisdom.’

Chapter 5
1 “Call now, is there anyone who will answer you?


And to which of the holy ones will you turn?

2 “For anger slays the foolish man,

And jealousy kills the simple.

3 “I have seen the foolish taking root,

And I cursed his abode immediately.

4 “His sons are far from safety,

They are even oppressed in the gate,

And there is no deliverer.

5 "His harvest the hungry devour

And take it to a place of thorns,

And the schemer is eager for their wealth.

6 “For affliction does not come from the dust,

Nor does trouble sprout from the ground,

7 For man is born for trouble,

As sparks fly upward.

8 “But as for me, I would seek God,

And I would place my cause before God;

9 Who does great and unsearchable things,

Wonders without number.

10 “He gives rain on the earth

And sends water on the fields,

11 So that He sets on high those who are lowly,

And those who mourn are lifted to safety.

12 “He frustrates the plotting of the shrewd,

So that their hands cannot attain success.

13 “He captures the wise by their own shrewdness,

And the advice of the cunning is quickly thwarted.

14 “By day they meet with darkness,

And grope at noon as in the night.

15 “But He saves from the sword of their mouth,

And the poor from the hand of the mighty.

16 “So the helpless has hope,

And unrighteousness must shut its mouth.

17 “Behold, how happy is the man whom God reproves,

So do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.

18 “For He inflicts pain, and gives relief;

He wounds, and His hands also heal.

19 "From six troublesHe will deliver you,

Even in seven evil will not touch you.

20 “In famine He will redeem you from death,

And in war from the power of the sword.

21 “You will be hidden from the scourge of the tongue,

And you will not be afraid of violence when it comes.

22 “You will laugh at violence and famine,

And you will not be afraid of wild beasts.

23 “For you will be in league with the stones of the field,

And the beasts of the field will be at peace with you.

24 “You will know that your tent is secure,

For you will visit your abode and fear no loss.

25 “You will know also that your descendants will be many,

And your offspring as the grass of the earth.

26 “You will come to the grave in full vigor,

Like the stacking of grain in its season.

27 “Behold this; we have investigated it, and so it is.

Hear it, and know for yourself.”


Wow - there is so much to say about all this.  Here are some things to ponder:

How far will satan go to find the perfect person to fight in the flesh for HIS purpose?
Would you know enough to discern the spirits in your midst, or would they overtake you and move within their destruction?
Are you capable of  / have you had success with pulling the reigns in and overcoming the propensity to hit the gas pedal making you one with the adversary instead of one with God?

It is only through the power of the spirit and our free will allowing Him the victory that this is possible, I pray for us all to see these moments or intersections headed for calamity and fall to our knees requesting that we not be part of destruction to those around us.  It simply does not have to continue, but it is our choice. 

I beg of you to realize this day it is you and you alone who chooses life or death, and it is through each though kept, action taken and word spoken......please hear, see and truly choose life, for Christ sake and glory to be received by him.

In Him,
Kisses,
Candace

Welcome...We are Very Glad to be With You.

Last night was amazing to me. God woos me along this journey in such mighty ways. I appreciate each of you. This morning I was starting my day as much like every other morning of what I have come to understand as “my life”, opening myself up to discuss yesterdays and seek God’s direction.

To My Fellow Sojourner,

As I sit here looking back at where I started, not so much the very beginning but the day I first looked at myself in that rear view mirror, trying so desperately to see my way clearly. I’ve walked across the miles: seen the smiles, the turned backs, the arms that would not embrace as well as the ones that opened wide telling me to trust them and give as they themselves were hiding behind a facade. I’ve felt and remembered the pain; pain I had never imagined and bondage no one can escape on their own.
I have read many travelers’ experiences and opinions on “how to” however the same thread runs through each of our tales. Today is only a point in time and all time has been closed. It is now about fulfillment of the days.

Everyone’s journey is as unique as they are. No one can tell you “how to” journey your path except the creator of your path. Many times we are looking to the creature, instead of the creator. The creature is to aid, not to answer. As I heard Him whisper one day, “the answer is the sojourning, the question an endless plight; be still and know that I am God and I love you, deeply, honestly, passionately so that you will know freedom and can love freely just as I would …..for me; always… in all ways.

These are precious moments I’ve lived, the good, the bad, and the ugly, (Clint Eastwood days), some turbulent times, some peaceful times and some exuberant times. I am not a writer as I have previously said; I am just another sojourner on a quest. I am putting all this out here, because He asks us to be real and to share. I know He will find the success He desires to reach whoever wants to know Him. If it is only one person, I am happy to know He has reached you, and that we share this experience together throughout eternity.

Whoever you are talk, sing, share and love… not because you’re perfect at it but because you can—for Him.

With love and kisses,
Candace

Today, I praise Him, I give Him thanks. There are just around 100 of us now. This does not include the wonderful people involved in the intercessory area, between 15 and 20. There are now individuals set to train as well as be trained for outreach. Some days it is very overwhelming for me to grasp the ways God has propelled and orchestrated his love for each of us to know He is Real.

This is what He wants us to understand:

My arm is what reaches through the chaos to show them the truly beautiful pathways to life. When they stand at the wayside and wait, I WILL be there, I AM always there, they simply lean on their own understanding (knowledge, sight, emotions and theories) to struggle their way along. I know not to lead them onto that path, the evil is waiting, crouching around every corner to head them back to his pit. I want them to be in peace so that they will change their mind and get away from what is waging war with fullness of life. I AM.. tell them that. I AM here, I AM an ever ready help in their time of trouble. All they have to do is believe it. I Will do the rest. I Will supply the vision, I Will supply the strength, I Will cover them with My Glory and They Will succeed.

I pray that the sacrifices that are made are glorifying to Him. This is what He has desired a relationship, a body to call His own. this is a fragrant aroma in His sight.
Look in the archives to go further. Topic: moments, journey, sight

Enjoy THIS day that the Lord "has made" - Just as He has Made YOU....and He calls you "beautiful".

What could be MORE beautiful than that?
Kisses,
C

Please Do Not Give Me Another Opinion

How many opinions have we all listened to, not to mention given, throughout our lives. Not everyone opens up to get in the conversation of life, but we all have added our view points if, we breath, from time to time. Even if we cannot, or chose not to, speak our very presence speaks volumes. As we mature a shift happens. We gain enough experience that we can discern an opinion or theory, which may be based on very real information, from something deeper and richer. When we hear these words it is the difference between listening to Ercle verses Indiana Jones. The zeal of someone having traveled the very words they are speaking, having utilized what they believed and standing there in front of you is vastly different from the one who listens, reads, thinks and talks. 

Proverbs 15:23 States: To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!

Everything I have been studying this month subconsciously keeps aligning me with verses from Ecclesiastes. There is a purpose for everything under the sun, a time for all things, somethings are vain, enjoy life it is only for the living - and much more. Today as I was studying, I cross referenced with the verse from proverbs, typed above. I remembered Solomons desire for wisdom to ensure he was just in caring for everyone and how God blessed him with more wisdom than any man before or after. But Solomon was still just a man with opinions, if he was not speaking the words of God.

I had to look up the word apt to be sure I knew exactly what it meant. Two applications perfectly aligned with my studies this morning and made me stop and write this to share with you all : usually fitted or qualified; ready (as a tool in the hands of the conspirators). having a tendency; likely : ordinarily disposed; inclined (plausible as true) : suited to a purpose; especially (being to the point, an apt quotation).

What I was going to write this morning was about how everyone wants to make it to the top. There is so much talk about "our purpose" since The Purpose Driven Life. If life is for the living then of course we want to participate and not miss out. Today we are only taking a few steps into this deep topic for now.

Over simplifying to save much time, a leader has all things before him. He must decide each path and the way steps are made. He must go first on the very long journey, then return with the experience, full knowledge of what was successful verses what would fail. Servants have been told where to stand, what to do and what to see / or be on the watch for. They have nothing but time to notice and be about their current space. They have much more down time ........if they chose to have it.

Too many of us call our self leaders and then drag others down our path, our experience. We selfishly use them for our comfort and gain. This is not a leader, not a good leader anyway; these are the mannerisms of a servant who serves in vain. Think about all the biblical history we have about people wanting to get to the top. Now think about Christ. Since the beginning he was serving God, creating alongside Him and walking with Him. It was God who decided it was time for Christ to take a journey out from Him. Christ was pleased to take it and did not despise the road God chose, the purpose of his life or the fact that he had to wait till it was God's time and way.

Even when among us, Christ was serving all people, all the time as God would. It makes me think that it was not only a way for us to see God, but for Christ to remember every detail of Him. Divinely, honor was brought to God and God was blended into each current moment with Jesus, and those in his presence. Christ was very clear that every word He ever spoke was not his but His Fathers. He said if they saw him they could be assured they had seen His Father; therefore his mannerisms and directives were stimulated by the same things as well.

Jesus trusted God in every way, he went where he was told, did what was asked but more importantly he relied on his relationship and not just instructions. God allowed Christ to completely finish, withholding no experience, entrusting the fullness of the journey was a glorious thing. Ecclesiastes 7:8 states: Better is the end of a thing than the beginning; and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

Let us make no mistake, there is but One Leader, One Creator, One I Am. So, never run ahead, taking His position, proudly reaching the pinnacle and echoing out into the nothingness "Here I Am!!" Be pleased that you have purpose, right where He met you; not above it all, but while you were still in your mess. Your purpose was to be with Him, even in Him for ever - starting then!

There was only One time that He called you and you turned to hear Him and noticed exactly what He said. And from the middle of your chaos you lifted up your face, opened your mouth and from the depths of your heart said "Here I am!!" This was your moment and the start of "YOUR" journey - but your journey is not alone; it is His journey as well - that is why it is Yours!

There will be times when you are with others, there will be times when you are separated from others for a time. God has a reason for all things, but these things are not necessary for you or I to understand. Remember in all things what He tells you. Remember what He taught you and value them enough to bring them up. These are the mysterious moments when they see Him, as we see them, but also the Greatest Love above all men!

Today do not look for your life's purpose - that would be like saying God alone is simply not enough. Just sit down as Mary, grateful that He is with you; let all other anxieties wash away. Christ served, He sojourned and sat down. He led us right up to the Father and said please come on in.

I know this world is a noisy place and "in my opinion" it will not be quieting down. Shouldn't we do our part to help them hear His voice? What if we all spoke nothing but His words...the very same words that He said were Our Dad's? Hmmm.......but then again, we already do; even if we do not know it - because Christ said we do. I guess what I should ask then is this:

Who's child am I? Who's child are you? We may not see the resemblance, but everyone else knows the truth - it is as plain as the nose on our face!

Be still in His presence and bring Him to remembrance today.....or several day....or forever ;)

For the Love of God, in Jesus we are alive forever ~ kisses,
Candace

Copyrights Reserved ©Candace Huffmaster 2014

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc.®

Forget-Me-Not

My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. ~ Proverbs 3:1-2 

As I was reading this scripture today, I saw something different: God doesn’t want us to forget his laws, they are good.  But he implores us to allow our heart to guide us in keeping them.  It is only by His spirit residing in us that we are able to abide in His righteousness.  He does not desire for us to strive in vain, wearing our silly selves ragged.  He knows it is ridiculous for us to try.  We cannot even love each other well much less the hundreds of others below the ONE which upholds them all. 

For the length of our days…..the years of our life…..peace all flow up from our heart and fill the spaces leading up to our today and those relationships around us…..or not around us.  Our muscles are ignited by passion which stems from love or fear.  As I read this and turned it over in my mind, I saw all the things which have been added to me since I was a child.  For today, I am simply laying this one piece before us to think about:

 

 How many of us (I’m sure this will only apply to girls) have pulled the daisy petals as you state, “He loves me……He loves me not…..He loves me…..He loves me not….) only to have the silly flower have one too few petals and you end up on the NOT!  Silly as it is when that happens we almost get superstitious with the child’s play as if it is a little clue.

 

Why is it always an either or scenario?  What about the ridiculous saying “When the cats away the mice will play”.  What sort of mind set does the statement form in us as we are to grow toward trusting individuals?  We have spoken many times in regard to the harmless fairy tales we lavish on the impressionable minds entrusted to us.  Personally I love fairy tales; I appreciate the underdog winning and the super inflated evil tyrant being served his just reward.   But do we keep stories in perspective of teachable moments or leave these precious formative minds flailing between creativity and real life application?

Each of us was created with fascination by the only mind smart enough, powerful enough and able to complete us.  We speak often of the verse:  Since I am afflicted and needy, Let the Lord be mindful of me. You are my help and my deliverer; Do not delay, O my God Psalm 40:17

I have been silent for several weeks for many reasons – God is bringing me through another layer of discovery and it is so very exciting!  Whether I knew if or not I am not sure, but He has been allowing me to make plans, knowing they are good plan with intent to do His will and see that not all good things are His best for how He has uniquely made me to relate to Him and others.

As for this season and I know not how long it will be:

I will have no agenda except that which the Lord places before me.  I will find the work which He alone has for my hands to do and I will keep in my heart the knowledge that He will prosper it all for His glory and name sake.

Do I know exactly what that means? Absolutely not!  Does it concern me?  Not in the least!  As for me, I will worry about today and all that is before me to accomplish.  I will find His provision only in His rest and I simply cannot allow my soul to exit; for my soul needs its true mate….the spirit who forgets me not.

I pray that if you pick a beautiful daisy you not say any longer, “ He loves me…..He love me not”  but say and teach to your children “He love me….He forgets me not!”

Remembering each of you with tender love,

Candace

 

©Candace Huffmaster 2013, All Copy Rights Reserved

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®