How Can I Hold Something I Can't See?

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

Matthew 10:11-14 When you go into a city or village, look for people who will listen to you there.  Stay with them until you leave.  When you go into a house, greet the family.  If it is a family that listens to you, allow your greeting to stand.  But if it is not receptive, take back your greeting.  If anyone doesn't welcome you or listen to what you say - leave that house or city and shake it's dust off your feet.

Our "Honestly" topics have been: keeping the peace, being pressed on all sides, integrity, staying on the correct path and being aware of our journey amongst others.  While we have many kitchy analogies Christ has the answer; peace.  And He is clear that there is more than one peace.  He lovingly tells us to listen to His advice, His wisdom, His warning.......

Christ did not want us to be afraid of this world and the antics of others.  He told us He was not going to abandon us like everyone else does.  He also doesn't commit himself unto us as the world does.  Christ left us more than empty words, an empty gift box if you will.  He is the Good Sheppard; His parting memento for us to "cling to" until He returns for us was His Peace.   

Think about this:  Christ used this peace to get Him through everything He experienced.  It wasn't like some hand-me down because He wasn't going to need it any longer. It was something HE clutched which empowered Him, silenced the raging storms, allowed Him to not get offended, comforted Him when everyone else ridiculed Him, left Him, abused Him.......  It was precious to him!  We also know that there is more than one peace.  Think about all the "things" we hold on to claiming momentary peace.  But those are not what He was talking about.  His ONE and ONLY precious peace He could leave us and did not withhold from us.  Christ was going home.  He was one within God and God is LOVE.  There is no fear in LOVE.  So there is never a disturbed moment in eternity. Where He is Liberty and that IS peace. 

We may have been told this, even claim the knowledge of it; but do we really believe it?  IF we do believe it, why do we not "hold on to it"?  Do we set it down?  Do we throw it at someone?  Do we open the box and perceive nothing is there?  WHAT does it look like?  Would we know it if we WERE holding it????????

In my opinion these points are the reason for our delima, it's an enigma to us.  We cannot understand what it "Looks Like" we only perceive if we have or do not have it based on our feelings. Yet, we are told not to be driven by our emotions.  Sounds crazy doesn't it?  But God isn't trying to feed us with frenzy.  He is desiring us to think, to be still, to listen and learn. 

So...let's pick up where we left off.  We had just aligned ourselves with the accuser.  We all know we would never do that purposefully.  But remember, we were pressed and feeling like dust.  WHAT Happened???
Trusting the word of God, I'd have to say we did not heed the discerning words of Christ from Matthew 10. (oops!) 

Remember from the Deeply Series, we discussed "extending peace"  We reflected on our peace not being received, or sometimes it was taken but not shared.  When we extend peace, but the peace is not returned we are supposed to leave "with our peace". We are not called to be bound again as if we were never liberated.  We are not to stick around and get pummelled!  Even in marriage we are told if the one we are bound to decides they do not want to believe the truth, we are to allow them to go.  We are not "under" obligation or bondage in such a case; but to remember God has called us to be peaceable people. 

Sometimes I think we kick dust from our feet after we have given away our peace.  When I think about this I see us acting a bit like Herman Munster throwing a temper tantrum. I am embedding the YouTube link to an episode of The Munsters where Herman starts out teaching Edie their family values on being peaceable people.  However, when Herman's own rubber hit the road his vehicle  did not quiet stay on his well intended path.  I don't know if the ONLY reason Christ had to leave His perfect environment in the heavenlies was to show us "what it looks like when the rubber hits the road and stays on track to the finish line" or not, but I do know we really should be grateful that He did. 

We get our biblical definition of "hold peace" from the Greek word SIGAO - which means to keep silent, keep close (secret, silence), hold peace. Sigao is from the primary Greek word SIGE meaning to hiss, silence.  This reminded me of when Christ was being pummelled by the crowds, we are told He kept silent:  He held his words, He did not enter into their battle.  He was undoubtedly being provoked......But he "held his peace" anyway. 

Lastly, I want us to be aware that holding our peace is not our weapon.  The gift was "The Peace" itself. The Greek word EIRENE (which phonetically sounds like irony :0) it is defined as peace, rest - denoting an absence or end to strife.  It is a state of untroubledness! Can you imagine what it would be like to abide in undisturbed well being?  Here is a further description from Lexical Aids: 

Such a state of peace is the object of divine and saving promise and is brought about by God's mercy, granting deliverance and freedom from all the distresses that are experienced as a result of sin.  Peace as a Messianic blessing is that state brought about by the grace and loving mind of God wherein the derangement and distress of life caused by sin are removed.  hence, the message of salvation is called the Gospel of peace.  It can only be the result only of accomplished reconciliation, referring to the new relationship between man and God brought about by the atonement.

I pray that today, firstly you enjoy the relationships around you.  Be out there among people as salt and light.  Don't be some heavy legalistic non relate-able martyr that a worldly person is offended by you.  Remember, you are in their world - they are not in yours.  You are supposed to be leading them into another dimension.  You cannot do that if they are running the other way from you.  Give them something which resembles peace, be something brilliant that makes them take a second glance!  Allow Christ to walk among them and meet them right where they are - hopefully if you and I will stand in the moment silently pressed between the heavens and what is below, His spirit will flood their realm and they will be amazed by His truth flowing up from within us.  Enjoy this episode -
Have a Holy Halloween - BE a Holy Spirit today!
Kisses,
Candace

Peace is HOW we Harmonize

But seek FIRST His kingdom and all these things shall be added to YOU! Luke 12:31 NAS

We have been speaking about Peace, our Frame of Mind and Harmony.  Today we are blending these notes into a melodious cord to see if they harmonize.  When you, yourself understand their tone, experience it for yourself, then YOU will be filled with His harmony which merges and stabilizes all things. Doesn't that sound amazing?

Peace is how we harmonize.  We are told to extend our peace whenever we approach others and before entering dwellings.  If our peace is accepted, we are to stay in community with those whom are peaceable.  We are also told to be at peace with others as far as it depends on us.  We are instructed to keep our peace; not to give it away to those desiring to consume all peace as if they are a vast vortex leaving no peace for others.  I am always reminded of the proverb regarding giving our pearls to swine when I think of this.  To do so is a waste of something good which is to be planted, prosper and flourish bringing much more to everyone else in need.

The struggle between keeping peace and being IN peace is the battle mentioned which is not with flesh and blood.  We are told it is in the spiritual realm.  Our ability to keep peace by means of our own force / emotions is the down fall.  You see it is not OF us, there for our own might will always defeat us.  Did you grasp that?  Read it again if not.  There is nobody else there in that scenario is there?

Now compare this struggle to little children desiring to play with the same toy and there is only one between them.  They cannot comprehend the concept of playing together with the toy.  There vision is that of the vortex, all they can see is me, mine, all, go away!  The other child or children who is left toy-less, if even for one second begins the process of a meltdown by way of an explosion.

God's peace is not about happiness; although with His peace comes much.  It is not about grasping that momentary prize either; although with His peace we are blessed and prosper in all ways.  God's peace is not about detaching from everyone else in order to HAVE your desire; although there are times when He tells us to leave is the only way harmony may be kept. These are a few of the reasons why we, in our limited understanding are not able to wrap our minds around the depths, heights an widths of this selfless yet amazingly fulfilling True peace of His.  

Did you notice how self motivated, consuming and therefore isolating the peace is which we usually strive to obtain?  Now, think about how a musical note is enhanced when other notes entwine, merge and complete each other.  The sound which emerges is deeper, richer, whimsical and intense, depending on the notes, all at the same time.  It's absolutely DELICIOUS!

Have no doubt and do not be deceived: God's peace is all about harmony.  God is about unity and this unity WILL NOT happen without community.  This is the reason I am constantly speaking about our "common unity".  The fact is, unless all entities are harmonizing, His peace is flat and not the desired tune He has his heart set on conducting.  God Shalom is perfect pitch: perfect, whole, unimaginably lavish completeness.  I picture the one note to affect His ear as an off pitch, shrill singular voice which causes a pane of glass to fragment violently.  If I were an angel, I would feverishly fly the opposite direction.  But they will charge toward the battle line of this cosmic fight when they hear His perfect pitch!

So, as Christ (the living, walking, accepted your chaos which over took His life because God allowed it, restored all life and victories enabling PERFECT harmony - Christ) said "Do not worry about tomorrow for today has enough worries of its own."

Did you hear THAT?

With Love flung all about you,
Kisses,
Candace 

All Rights Reserved

S...T....R...E...TCH Aaaahhhh!

Think of how often our emotions drive us to escape discomfort in any way possible.  We numb ourselves, over stimulate and distract our focus on pondering the real reason for our lack of comfort.  Why do we seek comfort so much??? Who wants to be stressed, anxious, accountable, responsible for the pain we cause ourselves and others?  The list goes on but I will stop there.

Comfort is a state of being comforted.  It is a space in which your body feels physically relaxed, where we may have relief from pain or anxiety.  Comfort comes from an outside source, whether you go to a person or place or the person comes to you.  I will even go as far to say that if the environment has a person of encouragement then there could be a higher form of physical and possibly mental comfort as well.

Now think about peace:

Peace is a state as well. The state is calm and serene.  You can define when you are residing in this state due to the freedom from conflict.  Even in comfort you can have a vibe which is not tranquil and calm.  Peace is a quiet state, free from disturbances or noise.  It is a mental serenity where anxiety does not exist.  There is harmony among environment and individuals. 

We know God tells us to keep our peace, to hold our peace, to extend our peace.  He tells us to refrain from violence, avoid senseless arguments, to forgive when someone harms us, but not to allow those who do not repent and strive to be peaceable to enter or stay in our intimate space.

We are told to protect our heart because out of it flows the issues of life.  Peace resides in our heart.  God searches the depths of our heart or our intent.  He tells us to be mindful of all we do and not to grieve His holy spirit, which resides within our depths.  He also tells us we can prevent conflict ~ to be at peace with others as far as it depends on us.  But others “bother” our peace……..speaking for myself at least.  I am sure no one else has this problem.

In fact, as I am typing this, my peace is being tested, due to people who seem to be oblivious to others in their midst……..

So I must trust the elasticity and integrity of the Spirit in whom I am hoisted and sealed and participate in the STRETCH.  When my will becomes pliable, His will brings to realization that keeping my peace is up to me.  Leaving, when others do not desire to be considerate, is up to me as well.  Remember, yesterday, we discussed not knowing for sure if we should stay or leave; determining following is always our space.

  If others care enough and desire to continue in a relationship, they must not only receive peace but also extend it.  The truth is, peace takers are not to be allowed to devour or miss handle God's peace; it is a gift....  God expects us to speak up, in humility and love, so that others may realize the gravity of their actions.  What they do with that information is between them and God.

We must allow our emotions to be stretched out and examined; too many times we simply shoot off without considering our words or actions and their effects.  All of us are accountable and responsible for our use of the gift of self control.  Being a gift we cannot grow it, however God wills for us to comply with the working of His Holy Spirit.  Part of the buffeting is to relate with others, speak up even when they feel you are being unkind because you are causing them discomfort.  If you love them, you will encourage them to move beyond their desire for comfort and reach the higher state: PEACE, Shalom.  But remember they were given the right to free will.  Leave them in their state and you travel on to yours. 

The problem seems to be that people do not desire to leave the comfort of their discomfort to move on.  Realize this also though, look back at the definition; they do not want to be alone in their discomfort either – they need some outside source or place to ease their pain.  God is their ever present help in their time of discomfort.  He does not want you to hang around and comfort them when they are causing their own discomfort, as well as the discomfort to others.  So move on and hopefully they will find the strength to come into the state of Peace.

Comfort is actually the enemy of peace – Think about it…….please, think about it.  I know I am!

Kisses,

Candace

original discussion: Help Me Escape ©Candace Huffmaster 2012, All Copy Rights Reserved

©Candace Huffmaster 2014, update

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc.®

Help Me Escape!

Think of how often our emotions drive us to escape discomfort in any way possible.  We numb ourselves, over stimulate and distract our focus on pondering the real reason for our lack of comfort.  Why do we seek comfort so much??? Who wants to be stressed, anxious, accountable, responsible for the pain we cause ourselves and others?  The list goes on but I will stop there.

Comfort is a state of being comforted.  It is a space in which your body feels physically relaxed, where we may have relief from pain or anxiety.  Comfort comes from an outside source, whether you go to a person or place or the person comes to you.  I will even go as far to say that if the environment has a person of encouragement then there could be a higher form of physical and possibly mental comfort as well.

Now think about peace:
 

Peace is a state as well. The state is calm and serene.  You can define when you are residing in this state due to the freedom from conflict.  Even in comfort you can have a vibe which is not tranquil and calm.  Peace is a quiet state, free from disturbances or noise.  It is a mental serenity where anxiety does not exist.  There is harmony among environment and individuals. 

We know God tells us to keep our peace, to hold our peace, to extend our peace.  He tells us to refrain from violence, avoid senseless arguments, to forgive when someone harms us, but not to allow those who do not repent and strive to be peaceable to enter or stay in our intimate space.

We are told to protect our heart because out of it flows the issues of life.  Peace resides in our heart.  God searches the depths of our heart or our intent.  He tells us to be mindful of all we do and not to grieve His holy spirit, which resides within our depths.  He also tells us we can prevent conflict ~ to be at peace with others as far as it depends on us.  But others “bother” our peace……..speaking for myself at least.  I am sure no one else has this problem.

In fact, as I am typing this, my peace is being bothered due to people who seem to be oblivious to others in their midst……..

What I have had to come to the realization of is that keeping my peace is up to me.  Leaving, when others do not desire to be considerate, is up to me as well.  If others care enough about me and desire to have me around, they must return the peace I extend.  God expects us to speak up, in humility and love, so that others may realize the gravity of their actions.  What they do with that information is between them and God.  We do not speak up to be unkind or cause them discomfort – actually it is just the opposite.  If you love them, you will encourage them to move beyond their desire for comfort and reach the higher state: PEACE, Shalom.  But remember they were given the right to free will.  Leave them in their state and you travel on to yours. 

The problem seems to be that people do not desire to leave the comfort of their discomfort to move on.  Realize this also though, look back at the definition; they do not want to be alone in their discomfort either – they need some outside source or place to ease their pain.  God is their ever present help in their time of discomfort.  He does not want you to hang around and comfort them when they are causing their own discomfort, as well as the discomfort to others.  So move on and hopefully they will find the strength to come into the state of Peace.

Comfort is actually the enemy of peace – Think about it…….please, think about it.  I know I am!
 

Kisses,

Candace

©Candace Huffmaster 2012, All Copy Rights Reserved

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc.®

Remember Me....Please...

There is no way I can tie all our points up in one pretty little gift today.  But the studies I have been doing are leading me deeper upon our past studies and He is rocking my world! My excitement is hard to wrangle in, but I will control myself  and put out just a pinch of it today ;)

We talk about our thoughts ALL the time in group, in our daily relationships and more rampantly virtually.  We publish them in books, ink them into our flesh, sing them into the air and scream them at strangers (well, it is true :0)  So now, let's pause and BE mindful.......

Mindful means to bring to remembrance or be reminded; to recollect or admonish.  God tells us to know that He is mindful of US; He sets the memories of us up as memorials -they do not change.
Christ asked us to remember Him...we are not going to elaborate on this point today.  But whenever I hear the Tim McGraw's song "Remember Me" I cannot help but hear Christ pleading with us to remember Him...... That makes my heart sad that we do not remember Him as He IS and what He did to allow us to be ABLE to know Him as He is known to our Father. (Here is a link if you want to hear the song) 

For today though, we are applying these truths to understand how our memories and thoughts affect our life / peace in our moments and relationships:

God tells us "His peace surpasses all understanding" and He / Christ left us His peace; but WE must choose if we will cling to, or seek, comfort which soothes our dis-ease or the peace of Christ and His righteousness that "settles" all things within our midst.  It might be squirmy uncomfortable at times to go through these moments instead of stopping to be comforted.  However, if we persevere, press on to this goal, all things will be resolved, "as far as it depends on us". 

Another side of these thoughts is our understanding of His truth; how we are taught or think we, our self are to "Keep OUR Peace" as if peace can be ripped from our clutches and stolen.  It depends, the peace WE generate through comforting our self CAN be stolen from us.  But not His Peace, because it is not generated by US.  So if we catch our self fighting, defending and screaming "Get Away From My Peace!" then we might want to settle down and .......Remember Jesus; listen to His pleading, grieving, holy Spirit.  "Please.......Remember....Me....."

The truth is, when we are in the clutches of these moments, we need to mindful that we have entered the flesh and blood battle ground; the coliseum as we often refer to it.  His peace is not "up to us" to keep; He Keeps US in His perfect peace who trust in His faithfulness! Remember, our study of the Psalms where we meditated on how the holy spirit desires to lay us down in sweet rest for His glory and name sake?

When we allow Him to care to carry out His desires for us we allow the room for all supernatural contenders to fight the real fight.  We also allow the ministering spirits to come in and care for us.  When the way is cleared, through Christ who goes before us, all opposing Him must flee! He ushers in liberty, but not a liberty that we could even begin to comprehend how to achieve; it is supernatural. The only natural thing we may do is join with the Power that reckons all things to Him and His Righteousness. He alone uphold and carries us through all times past, present and into eternity...

Be mindful of your thoughts, actions and words because our words are power.  They are for reminding, admonishing, rebuilding, rebuking, remembering and calling into place what lies ahead. Remember: people get wounded or healed, encouraged or burdened by them.  We get to chose them...who will you serve with yours? Who will you bring to remembrance and serve with yours; just know you have to sit down and eat the meal with him / Him.

For the Glory of His Kingdom and the power of His name which completely accomplishes His will, I pray we chose life, always!

Kisses,
C

 

All Copyrights Reserved ©Candace Huffmaster 2012

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc.®

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 

How Long Can This Go On?

Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.  See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;  that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. Hebrews 12: 14-16

Having been over a month since I have had a moment to continue where I left off, I had to revisit the details of where we were.   If you want to review it click this link.

The first question in the random list was: How long can this go on? Length of time under pressure is indeed one of the first culprits which weakens us enough to take pause, when we are heading toward a crisis.  It isn't the first thing which happens; usually we have made attempts to under gird and manage our discomfort, but we get frustrated and worn out. Reminds me of the Happy Train analogy we use: Our Happy Train is scooting on down the track and at first there is a bump, then a metal sparking sound and THEN a disastrous flailing of bodies and loose objects slinging around the box car?

Most of us can do well with a bump or two.  We are even able to adapt bumps into our everyday life without too much disarray.  However, what happens when we are a bit frazzled from "life" and the ride is bumpy for hours? Add to this: everyone around you being pesky, only to have  the screeching metal sound shrill the airwaves in a grand crescendo!  How would your comfort level be in this moment?

Habakkuk wrote, that it was not of the Lord that we weary ourselves in vain. What does that mean to you? Do you think God desires for us to weary ourselves to the point we are disconnected and tolerating life? What are we pursuing? What are YOU pursuing? Most of us ARE pursing peace....but is it more rightly having what we want, which makes us happy and we deceive ourselves that we are experiencing peace?  Even if we are achieving this goal at the moment and no one seems to be grinding the gears of our Happy Train experience, we must realize we've seriously bypassed one of Gods major train stop.

God allows things to go on so that we understand what is going on.  The reason I went to Hebrews to address this is because in chapter 11, we were given the great cloud of witnesses legacy.   Esau, we are told, sold his birthright to get what he desired to happen.  He may have had peace in the moment, worldly peace, but he was not pursing peace with others; it was only about what he wanted.  Do you think Jacob was on a Happy Train Ride? What about their parents? Were they happy, did they have peace?

The Christmas Hymn, link above, speaks of peace and goodwill toward men.  This is the peace Hebrews 12 was speaking of, not the selfish peace of getting what we want.  Sanctification is the only means of experiencing a peaceful journey through life - How long can it go on till you make it? Till
Christ comes again!

Fortunately, as we begin seeing others and caring about the weight of our own wants upon them, God gives us all the mercy and grace to BE different all along the way.  This year give something beyond a perfect present, give notice to how you have treated others to get where you are and what you wanted.  Give a sincere apology for wrecking their train at times and ask how you might be able to help them find their way back.  If possible.......

When we begin living out the long lives we are blessed with in this way, we might feel less days of "How long can this go on?" and more day filled with " How much longer do I get to experience life?"

For God so loved the world, shouldn't we join in?

Merry Christmas to all and to all a marvelous night,

Kisses,
Candace

© 2016 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

The Work of OUR Hands

This journey we are all on,"just living our life" as some say, is where the majority of our focus is spent.  Obviously, these conversations will be continuing long after each of us have moved beyond these days we are traveling; because we did not start them, we joined in with an ongoing conversation.  This life is no more than the jaunt within our eternal sojourn.  I truly, prayerfully wish that we could perceive the deep relief which should accompany such a mind set.

We have been pondering peace: God's peace, the peace Christ called "My peace".  When we do not choose to keep His peace; we choose to do the comforting our self....our way. We live in a society which takes pride in doing things "Our Way"; we give accolades as if people are incredibly original.  God reminds us that there is nothing new under the sun and that while He did create each of us uniquely and individually, all things are common to each of us corporately. 

Coming full circle with our conversations over the past few weeks, today we are speaking about denial.  This is not going deep, for obvious reasons.  I simply desire for each of us to have some information enabling us to discern our ways - with out condemnation.  Denial is a survival mechanism.  It is in place to help us bear up under perceived pain or threats to our psyche, in order to find comfort.  Some individuals have chosen this tool and become so proficient with their skills set, that they are no longer even aware when it is being employed.  The reason it can become a favored "go to" item is because it temporarily helps this person bear up under perceived pain and have a bit of comfort, even if it causes larger destruction down the road.  Usually it is chosen as a protector of the persons well being when anxiety, conflict or trauma producing situations are thought to be ensuing.

 As we have been studying the ways we slight God of His rightful place as protector over us, I was reminded of the women contrasted in Proverb 14:1:

The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish woman tears it down .....with her OWN hands.

 

 How often are we in denial that the wreckage of our moments is by others, God or "an act of God" tearing down our life.....it is by the strength of "Our own Hands!".  During our discussions about the House of Cards we touched on this same topic; remember this:

 A little golden nugget about emotions:  They build a house of cards around the one real piece of the puzzle which they are concealing.  We build these false images layer upon layer to protect the vulnerable piece; as well as our stage presence.  Often, we really do not realize we do this.  We might catch a glimpse of it, but it passes so quickly we believe it is the masquerade.  Then every once in awhile, God will gently allow the winds of change to blow toward your magnificent construction and hit …just one card……and quickly they all collapse into a one dimensional array.

 We will be building up from these thought, but today - If only for today, may we BE people of peace: extending peace, keeping peace, abiding in peace.

 And maybe.....just maybe, as far as it depends on us many people will get a glimpse of something so beyond our natural human form that they will HAVE to take pause and ponder about GOD.

At least, that is my hope; if only for this one day :)

 

Kisses,

Candace

©Candace 2013, All Copyrights Reserved

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, ™

Raised in Peace

None of us were able to choose the space which we were raised up within,  but there we were.  Some of us had it better than the others; some of us had more stuff than the next guy.  Some of us had more love, while others had no guidance.  While I would like to think that every adult around us did the best that they could, we all know this is not the case.  Some people just care more about themselves and what they want to the detriment of those they are to be caring for.

Even with that being stated, our good experiences do not come from those around us.  Those around us can make our experiences better or a hardship, but no one can define our own life experience except our self. Christ himself, said (John 16:33) "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."  and in 2 Corinthians 1:2-4 it states: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of mercies  and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 

Ultimately, where we were raised is just the ground which gave us life.  The people who affected our informative years cannot effect our lives when we are no longer living upon their turf.  Now we alone are accountable for what raises up from within us.  Here is the problem, the torments in life are not from out there........they are coming from inside us.  If you are not keeping your peace, you have no ability to comfort anyone.  Dare I say you will be the crucible of much negative effects, much like trying to cuddle a porcupine.

We have been speaking about trustworthy and faithful relationships.  God is faithful, Christ has taken care of the burden of proof.  Listen to what is going on around you, eradicate the clanging cymbals and hear the still small, wise voices.  There are as many of those around as the blow-hards, you just have to get far enough away from their boisterous blasts to hear the calm grounding things.  James (in Chapter 3  verse 17, 18) wrote for us: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.  Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who MAKE peace.

If the people around you are not "those who MAKE peace.....don't MAKE a life with them - or guess what....the life made will have NO peace externally.  While you surely can still have peace in this world even in that space....is that really a wise ground to start building your house upon?

We will get to what to do if your house has already been build.  We are just laying the foundation (pun intended ;)  In the mean time meditate on this: 

 

But wisdom that is from above is FIRST pure....THEN peaceable, gentle (and here is my favorite part) WILLING TO YIELD, yes WILLING to yield (no fights about it....just willing!) full of mercy AND good fruits without partiality and without hypocrisy (isn't that something?). 

My love to each of you - sweet dreams,
Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc®

©Candace Huffmaster 2013, All Copy Rights Reserved



Jesus Wept For The City

Jesus Wept for the City

TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2 by Os Hillman

"As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, 'If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace - but now it is hidden from your eyes'" (Luke 19:41-43).

Jesus was making his triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem. The Pharisees were complaining about the exuberance of His disciples as He made His way into the city. They were celebrating a life that had blessed them and countless others: "When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 'Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!'" (Luke 19:37-38).

Jesus was saddened by the response of the Pharisees. He knew what His presence could do for the city. But He also knew they would not change. The city would reject His presence and crucify. His presence would bring peace to the city if they embraced who He was - the author of peace. Now it would be hidden from their eyes because of unbelief.

Every city can be blessed by the presence of Jesus in their midst. However, it requires city leaders to invite the presence of Jesus into their city in order for that city to experience peace. Jesus comes to bring peace in any situation. However, He also realizes He will divide city leaders because of unbelief and political correctness.

Does your city need the presence of Jesus? Do you desire to see peace in your city? Begin to pray for city leaders to understand how the presence of Jesus can impact your city in dramatic and positive ways.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. And your own city.  - Os Hillman

This merges beautifully with yesterdays post doesn't it.
My prayers are with you all,
Candace

Movin' Out!

I want to weave two thoughts of thread through what we will think about: Christ used his own blood, not the blood of someone else as a sacrifice.  God divinely tied us all together. And yet we are allowed to think we are detached from the universe, if we so foolishly want to allow our minds to lead us in that direction. 

Many centuries ago, it was written:

For God has consigned (penned up) all men to disobedience, only that He may have mercy on them all [alike]. Romans 11:32 AMP
 

He also told us that all things are common which we go through, to each and every man, in 1 Corinthians  10:13. 

What if God, through Christ here on earth had chosen to take the life of all those sinning.  When the disciples desired to call down fire from heaven and Peter sliced off an officers ear, what if Christ had not stopped spoken peace and reattached the ear?  What if He had decided the people were right with all their taunting and jumped down off the cross?  Then said, "Enough!"  "Spill your own blood for your own sins!"

Why don't we ever stop to think about this.....really think about it.  Why do WE want people to "pay for it"?  I want justice as much as the next guy.  But I want restoration, reconciliation and transformation.  Okay, part of me is twisted enough to think that people should be forced to be kind, from the heart type of kind to others, as in Liar, Liar where they simply CAN'T act wrong.  Deep down however, I just want there to be a sincere Utopia where I can let my hyper vigilant discernment down so my really Pollyanna nature can whimsy all about.  REALLY....what's wrong with that picture?  Why can't everyone just think, do and project the best, highest, healthful things??

I hear many of you now shouting "Enough Already!"  Back to topic.....

As I have been racing around this week working with tender souls in crisis.  There has been a very common thread, which is the reason for my "verbal slathering" of what-not above.  Each conversation and pain was woven with this "thread of anxiety":  Why are there so many horrible people around me, everyone is trying to push me away.  So many of them state they have no friends they can count on, really count on.  This includes family most of the time.  They understand that life is busy and everyone has problems, but it is sad.....and so very common!

We have spoken about keeping our peace so many times.  Check out the prior years deeper information on the topics here:  Help Me Escape, Fear of Bridges, Created to Sound, When We Don't Know...Search, , When Crisis Blows Through Town, Until You Shake No More

When I hear the out pouring of these hearts, crying out that they must move because they know something better is out there.  I ask them "where is this magical kingdom, I'd like to tell others like you to go as well?"  I am not mocking them, as it might appear.  When the question settles in their reality and their irritation with my words is stilled, they almost feel a bit hopeless.  It is at this point where God can work with us.  Give us a glimpse of what He is up to.

Peace is a messianic blessing as we know.  Utopia isn't out there somewhere in some mysterious space, that would be out of our control.  God is not mean, always casting the impossible our way; He is loving, kind, gentle.  He is also firm and dependable, because He is FOR our evolution and eternal design.  When He instructs us to "keep our peace"and to allow His peace to "rule in our hearts and minds" that the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is empowering these supernatural capabilities.  We cannot do it "alongside Him".  Only He can jump in and do the heavy surpassing work which our human strength cannot under-gird.  We do not get to say, "God has matured me, now I got this one."  No, we must stay humble and say....my maturing has me to the point that when I need to do something I can not do, I implore all which He alone is, to overtake my human form and BE glorified by desiring to use my body to do it "through". 

Let's make this simple: Everyone knows about the "trickle down theory" and "the ripple effect".  These are not Christianise.  When we define a problem as we state often, that is the where the hard work kicks in.  Many people want to stop at the theory, or get stuck in the "which came first / chicken or egg" phase. 

Let's look deeper than the surface of the affected body of water:

• What is the larger source from which the fluid is dripping?
• We get that in order for there to be a ripple there is some form of a collective body or fluid, but what is the source of the foreign object object causing all the commotion?

Think about when Christ was walking above the water, or speaking into the storm.  We all know He said, "Peace Be Still, I AM" to which the air stilled as did the turbulent waters.  Now Picture this:
If through Christ, the Holy Spirit is settled down within us, and we allow Him to live large and overtake us, then when we are all chaotic and He says "peace, be still, I Am within you!", why do we flail about so much?  Why do we not keep our peace? 

Keep the picture going here:  If Christ stills us right in the middle of our storm, why don't we open our mouths and give Him our vocal cords and breath to give a shout out around us?  Wouldn't all disturbances around us be stilled or scattered? 

This in my imagination is the perfect picture of the ripple effect.  He dropped out of the heavens into our perfect storm and stilled us.  The vapors not desiring to be stilled raise up and are cast out from our shalom.  They rise up causing an outer ring but as others in that outer area allow the spirit to do the same, the rise and the calm spreads out further. 

Now picture the stillness of the calm surface, smooth as glass.  Revelation 4 says: In front of the throne, there was something like a sea of glass as clear as crystal.  I know there will be no turbulent waters in Christ's body of water.  In His divine order life is a culmination of cause and effect.  What will you cause?  What is the effect of you droplets today?

We would like to believe we are not "that" pivotal in the "grand scheme" of things.  However, once we began to forming as part of the equation in the mind of God, nothing was that would be without our first breath. He dropped us into this body for a reason, a cause and an effect.  He is the origin or breath.  He filled the corners of all that is with His air.  For just one moment could you pause and picture this?

Look outside...really stop what you are doing and look outside :) 
Listen, watch.....God's own breath started all this.  He upholds it, moves it about, and keeps it alive.  He does this!    Let Him drop you somewhere that needs what He is within you.  Be the weighty droplet falling from heaven and allow Him to change the whole environment. 

He might choose to skip you across the surface, but if you are willing He might drop you right into the depths of the darkness.  Either way, He is perfectly able to rise up and move out what needs to flee.

Because He lives, WE are effective!
What will they witness today?
What will your witness say?

Peace and Love to you all,
Kisses,
Candace 

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc®

©Candace Huffmaster 2013, All Copy Rights Reserved



Ministry in Word

The Greatest Prophecy

最大的预言

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
因有一婴孩为我们而生；有一子赐给我们。政权必担在他的肩头上；他名称为奇妙策士、全能的神、永在的父、和平的君。
Isaiah 9:6
以赛亚书9:6

A Messianic Prophecy

一个弥赛亚的预言

Prophet Isaiah prophesied of the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, into human history as a man years before it actually happened. This simple verse contains a great deal of blessings about Christ’s mission in the world.
在它实际上发生的许多年之前，先知以赛亚预言了弥赛亚，就是耶稣基督的来
临，他成为一个人进入了人类历史。 这简单的一节圣经包含关于基督在世上的使
命的很多祝福。

A Child and A Son

一婴孩一子

Our Messiah was born into this world as a baby, having a human beginning though he existed before the world was created. He is eternal so he has no divine beginning and ending. He is the one and only Son of God the Father, given out of God’s love for the world so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but has eternal life (Jn 3:16). He was given to us to take on the flesh and blood of man and to atone for our sin on the cross as the only sinless, perfectly righteous among men ever walked and will walk on earth.
For us He laid down His life and took it up again, victorious over death, the wage of sin, so that we may also be freed from the sting of death (1 Cor 15:54-55).
我们的救主出生成为婴孩进入这个世界，有人性的起点，虽然他在世界被创造之
前就存在了。 他是永恒的，因此他没有神性的起点和结尾。 他是父神的仅有儿
子，因为神爱世人所以赐他给我们，使一切相信他的人不致灭亡，反得永生(约
3:16)。 他被赐给我们来成为人的血肉之躯和作为在世人之中自古至终唯一无罪，
完全公义的人在十字架上赎我们的罪。他为我们放下了他的生命而再拿它回来，
战胜死亡，就是罪的工价，让我们也能从死亡的毒钩被释放(林前15:54-55)。

His Government

他的政权

He came, He saw, He conquered. He came into this sinful, dark world as a humble infant, to identify with our human weakness. He saw the pain and suffering in this world as an itinerant teacher, to shine His light into wherever received Him. As the Messiah He conquered death after offering Himself as a perfect sacrifice on the cross to redeem  mankind from the penalty of their sin. He ascended to heaven but is ruling as king in the hearts of those who belong to Him. He will return one day when all the knees shall bow and all the mouths shall confess that He is Lord (Php 2:10-11). He rules His kingdom in
love with perfect justice to bring out everyone’s best. He shoulders His government as the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
他来了，他看见了，他征服了。作为一个卑微的婴儿他进入这个有罪，黑暗的世
界，认同我们人的软弱。作为一位巡回教师他看见了这个世界的痛苦和灾难，光
照接受他的地方。 作为救主他以献上自己作为十字架上完善的祭，来从人类罪的
惩罚中赎回他们，他征服了死亡。 他升天了，但他在属于他那些人的心中作王。
有一天他将要回来，那时万膝将跪拜，并且万口要承认他是主(腓 2:10-11)。 他以
爱与完善的正义统治他的国度，带出众人最好的一面。作为奇妙策士、全能的
神、永在的父、和平的君，他担负他的政杈。

 

Wonderful Counselor

奇妙策士

He is called Wonderful Counselor because He is the one who guides us with the wisest advice regarding life. This is because His thoughts are higher than our thoughts and His ways higher than our ways (Is 55:9). He is also called Wonderful because of His ability to work wonders and do what is marvelous and astounding in the eyes of man. But the most wonderful and unbelievable thing He had done is that while we were still sinners He died for us, thus demonstrating His love for us (Ro 5:8). He is called Counselor because
He is our advocate, standing at the right hand of God, doing the wonderful thing of interceding for us (Ro 8:34) and arousing the lost soul in its deadness into a new life.
他被祢为奇妙策士，因为他是以最明智的，关于生命的忠告引导我们的人。 这是
因为他的意念高过我们的意念，他的道路高过我们的道路(赛55:9)。 他也称为奇
妙，是由于他能做非常奇妙的事情和能做不可思议与在人眼中令人震惊之事。 但
是他做了的最美妙和最难以相信的事，就是当我们仍然是罪人时他为我们死，因
而显出他对我们的爱(罗5:8)。他称为策士，因为他是我们的律师，站在神右边做
美妙的事，就是为我们代求(罗 8:34)和激起毫无生气的失落灵魂来得到新生命。
Mighty God
全能的神

Nothing is impossible with God (Lk 1:37). Christ is powerful for He is God. He is not a man who had become god, but He is God Almighty. He is the mighty God who is coeternal with the Father (Jn 1:1) and who made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness (Php 2:7). He is the mighty God who is the author of faith that is like a mustard seed yet with it we can cast aside mountains in our life(Mt 17:20). He is the mighty God, capable of blessing us with wonderful things in our life, first of which is our salvation.
在神没有难成的事(路1:37)。 基督是大有能力的因为他是神。 他不是一个人成为
神，而是他是万能的神。 他是与父神同为永恒之大有能力的神(约1:1)，而他反倒
虚己，取了奴仆的形像，成为人的样式(腓2:7)。 他是像芥菜种籽的信心之源头，
有了这信心我们可以迁移我们生命中的山(太17:20)，因他是大有能力的神。 他是
大有能力的神，有能力来祝福我们让我们生命中有美妙的事，首先就是我们的得
救。

Everlasting Father

永在的父

Christ our Lord is forever with the heart of His loving Father who is always waiting for us to repent and return to Him. Christ was, is, and will be with the Father, yet He once dwelled among us and now His Spirit dwells in us (Jn 1:1-4, 14). He cares for and loves us like a father, with our best interest in His mind. He is the everlasting God, willing and capable of blessing us with wonderful things in our life.
基督我们的主永远是带着等待我们悔改和回到他那里的慈爱天父的心。 基督以前
是，现在是和以后是与天父同在，而他曾经住在我们当中，现在他的灵在我们之
中居住(约1:1-4, 14)。 他像一个父亲地关心和爱我们，以我们的最大的好处为念。 他是永恒的神，愿意和有能力赐福给我们，使我们在生命中有美妙的事。

Prince of Peace

和平的君

Christ is the Prince of Peace who brings true peace between God and men. He, as our Messiah who brings not truce only but restoration of relationships, had dealt with the cause of hostilities between God and men and among men which is sin. For all who received Him as their personal Savior, this peace has entered their life (Ro 5:1). Christ is the Prince of Peace, not only willing and capable of blessing us with wonderful things in our life, but actually acted on His willingness and capability to bless us with the inner peace in this tumultuous world.
基督是带来在神和人之间的真和平的和平的君。作为我们的救主，他不是在我们
关系上只带来停战而是带来恢复，解决了在神与人和在人与人之间敌意的起因，
就是罪。 对于接受他作为他们个人救主的所有人，这和平进入了他们的生命(罗
:1)。 基督是和平的君，不仅愿意和有能力赐福给我们使我们的生命中有美妙的
事，更实践他的自愿和能力来保佑我们在这个喧嚣的世界中有内在的平安。

 

A Prophecy Fulfilled

已成就了的预言

Christ is the Prince of Peace so our relationship with God may be set right and secure through Him. He is our loving Father who always has our best interest in mind. He is mighty so what is in His mind will come to pass. He gives the best advice so we can have the greatest hope in Him.
基督是和平的君，因此我们与神的关系可以通过他使其正确和巩固。 他是心中为
我们着想的慈爱天父。 他是如此大有能力的在他心里想像的都必实现。 他给我们
最好的忠告，因此我们可以在他里面有最大的希望。

On the first Christmas the Christ Child was born to Mary the virgin in Bethlehem, thereby fulfilling this messianic prophecy. Today and everyday since the first Easter the risen Christ has knocked at the door to our hearts asking to enter. Whoever open the door and invite Jesus into their life will have the blessings from our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.
在第一个圣诞节孩童基督在伯利恒从童女马利亚出生，从而实现了这救世主的预
言。 今天和自从第一个复活节的每天，复活的基督在敲我们的心门要求进入。谁
打开心门并且邀请耶稣进入他们的生命将有从我们奇妙策士、全能的神、永在的
父与和平的君的祝福。

Won’t you invite Jesus into your heart today?
今天你难道不要邀请耶稣进入你的心吗？

Tom and Tehwan Tso
仲谋与德菀

“The outcome of your faith is the salvation of your souls.” 1Peter 1:9
“信心的果效， 就是灵魂的救恩” 彼得前书1：9

Their Road is Wide Open - Why Isn't Mine?

2 Peter 1:3-11


3He gives us everything we need for life and for holy living. He gives it through His great power. As we come to know Him better, we learn that He called us to share His own shining-greatness and perfect life. 4Through His shining-greatness and perfect life, He has given us promises. These promises are of great worth and no amount of money can buy them. Through these promises you can have God's own life in you now that you have gotten away from the sinful things of the world which came from wrong desires of the flesh.


5Do your best to add holy living to your faith. Then add to this a better understanding. 6As you have a better understanding be able to say no when you need to. Do not give up. And as you wait and do not give up, live God-like. 7As you live God-like, be kind to Christian brothers and love them. 8If you have all these things and keep growing in them, they will keep you from being of no use and from having no fruit when it comes to knowing our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But if you do not have these things, you are blind and cannot see far. You forget God saved you from your old life of sin. 10Christian brothers, make sure you are among those He has chosen and called out for His own. As long as you do these things, you will never trip and fall. 11In this way, the road will be made wide open for you. And you will go into the holy nation that lasts forever of our Lord Jesus Christ, the One Who saves.

We have been speaking about road blocks, casting down false imaginations, truth, trust and transformation. I have said this before, and will probably state it again –“I do not believe anyone chooses to have a difficult life, I think they don’t understand how to do life differently – they need help not condescending scrutiny from pious people. But then again – those people I believe are doing the best they can as well. So let’s give each other a break –Okay?" Let’s try to give a hand up when a brother or sister is down – we all fail at this so let’s stop pointing fingers so much (somebody might sprain a wrist )

Adding to what we have been reflecting on, let’s look at what might cause us to “trip”. * Go back and read information on The Stones You Are Holding. If you do not have that – let me know and I will forward it to you. I can say from experience of my life and those we work with it's usually FEAR.  Pop psychology will talk about our emotions beneath a seemingly placid surface then the ice cap above, which is labeled anger. While this is valid, if we were ever willing to look at what we fear, why we give up our peace, then before too long there would be no propellant inciting combustion.  Peace is the only thing we can cling to, while we look through these emotional puzzle pieces, which will extinguish the sparks.  But it has to be REAL peace, not something we manufactured to psych ourselves out.  When we put the squeeze on those things they will crumble - Only God's promises can be clung to without crumbling.

When we do not have something to ground us – we as humans get confused. We have no idea where to turn. Then we gather too many ideas and become panicked. God is loving and kind. He does not want us to worry. He wants us to “pray”, “trust”, “prepare” – but in peace. He tells us everything we need to know in advance – the good, the bad and the ugly! Why? So that we are not caught off guard – He even explained this to us.

We are going to start looking at what He promised us and asked us to believe in faith that He is faithful. So plan yourselves and get ready to grow. Then we will start our engines and GO about our days with peace and joy.

So Today, continue writing about what you believe.  It will make for fascinating reading one day; I promise!

My love to you all – may His peace permeate you in all ways…..ALWAYS,

Kisses,
Candace

Peace By God's Hand

Proverb 16:7 Has been a deep thought of mine for the past few weeks.  I have not been able to move beyond it.  There are many verses which I have been deconstructing my own understanding and reconstructing them in light of God's truth. 

When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

This made me really just sit down and close my mouth - didn't think that could happen did you?  What do we worry about, why do we stress?  If we would just mind our OWN business and BE about HIS business then we will HAVE the peace which surpasses all understanding!

Which made me think:

If we were perfect....we wouldn't NEED people.
If people were perfect.....we wouldn't NEED a perfect God.
And if the only time I can believe that life / God is good is when I perceive things are perfect...then I have really said nothing of any substance at all.

There is a Story Being Told group has started up again, and we are going to be using the information from the past months to find the threads of our stories.  We will be weaving them through out God's story and His characters who experienced their story lines within His pages.  I hope those of you who have not been involved in the past will join us.  Even if it is sharing your thoughts, story lines by the blog or allowing us to share them in group.

As for today, read these two poems and reflect.  If you want to refresh your memory on the prior topics I have them linked at the bottom.

With Love,
Candace



Thread of Integrity
Walk ON
Your Image Is Showing
Left Destitute

IF

If I had not been called

I would not know how to answer

If I had not have opened the door

He would not have had entry

IF I had not welcomed him

He would not have stayed

If I had not have asked

He would not have answered me

IF he had had no patience with me

I would not be able to share of his love

If I had not needed his encouragement

He would not have made it available

If I had not experienced hardship

I would not have know that I needed him

If he did not let me face the pain of my choices

I would not have known hardship

If he had not set boundaries

I would not have grown

If I did not turn to Him

I would never have known true peace

IF I had never desired to know His peace

I would never have known my Lord

My Lord loves through teaching, embracing, encouraging, sacrificing and giving

He gives abundantly: strength and peace

The strength to face the task

And the peace to mentally stay focused

There are so many facets of his love

I have a tendency to only consider the ones that I can hope to accomplish in my own strength

Until I truly seek my Sheppard, I have absolutely no means to gain understanding

It is through conversing with him, that he grants us his visions and understanding

He desires to increase us because he has massive amounts to accomplish

We have to be still and empty our lives of ourselves in order to be filled with him

He dwells among us in any form that will give Him room

He is not one: He is many, He is abundant, and He is everyone that wishes to love

He is patient, kind, and understanding

He is rich, poor, every race and language

He is every size and every age and He wishes us all to love deeply, tenderly, openly, honestly, truly, passionately, eagerly, genuinely

But mostly -freely; with wings that can carry, cover, lift and give life

 

Together we are One, we are Complete, we are Christ

By Candace Huffmaster

 

A Worthy Display

Running and taking off, flying and free
My crippled feet, powerful, I lift off without wings,
By faith alone, my heart is soaring,
Strong arms carry me home.

The Word of God speaks, as silence abounds,
Thundering my purpose, holding my hand.
I'm never alone, even when people are few,
Bold is my witness, my companion is true.
My trust and salvation, pulse strong and pure
To illuminate pathways, lead forward the doomed.
Melodious are your victories; so picturesque, the view...

Strong arms carry me home.

Obscure as a puzzle, pieces chosen and carefully placed,
Perfection upon completion. Satisfaction. All pieces fit.
A scene preservation worthy; and we're unworthy to see,
Sing praise for forgiveness and for words spoken and true,
Grace unleashed in abundance,
to the meek and humble, troubled or doomed.
By faith alone, my heart is soaring,
Strong arms carry me home.

We are seeking, and He is calling,
and every heart needs to hear:
Eyes are opened when doors are answered,
The completed puzzle is now in view.
Not bound to a gallery, for no wall could contain,
Majestic beauty spilling over, flowing colors of his love.
Awed before this vision, words seem inadequate to express,
So I bow in silent worship, to the God that is such as this.

By Candace Huffmaster © 2006

 ©Candace Huffmaster 2013, All Rights Reserved

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc™

Birthright discussions from Friday group

We know that in the Middle East a birthright is primogeniture or right of the first-born.  What primogeniture means is: A system of inheritance in which land passes exclusively to the eldest son.

We discussed how Rebekkah asked the Lord why there was such a struggle with the babies in her belly.  We read in Genesis where the Lord answered her question:
 

"Two nations are in your womb; and two peoples will be separated from your body; and one people shall be stronger than the other;  and the older shall serve the younger."

We then discussed how families fight over inheritances if the deceased has not specified the details.  We all know that bitterness even pops up when this is done.

We also discussed that while Love and Peace "should" be given by others it is their free will to give it or not.  We spoke about proper boundaries being althought we do our part and offer Love and Peace if it is 1)not accepted 2) not freely given our rights may not cross into the "colliseum" where the great cloud of witnesses are to battle out till death the winner of the spoils. 

We looked at the interplay between Esau and Jacob, the parental riff of favorites and how that builds the character of individuals.  We discussed how God had told Rebekkah the end before it even started.  We asked questions to journal about:  Was God simply being omnipresent and stating the facts or was this His best plan and good will for the siblings? 

We had discussion about Esau not respecting his birthright and giving it away from lentil soup.  So in essence maybe it is inaccurate to blame Jacob for taking what was given - Esau was perfectly capable of doing some prep work on his kill for the day.  Maybe he was just being lazy - Maybe he just didn't think it was his job and expected Jacob to do it for him - Maybe he didn't think it would eventuate even if he said it, after all he WAS daddy's favorite AND the oldest.

We discussed that if Jacob really believed it was his why did he feel he couldn't just walk into his dads tent and say - "Hey pops, seems you forgot Esau gave the birthright which is a blessing to me - and we know we can't be double minded!) 

We also read Romans 10:1-

Brethren, my heart's desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have (A)a zeal for God, but not in accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about (B)God's righteousness and (C)seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. For (D)Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to (E)everyone who believes. For Moses writes that the man who practices the righteousness which is based on law (F)shall live by that righteousness. But (G)the righteousness based on faith speaks as follows: "(H)DO NOT SAY IN YOUR HEART, 'WHO WILL ASCEND INTO HEAVEN?' (that is, to bring Christ down), or 'WHO WILL DESCEND INTO THE (I)ABYSS?' (that is, to (J)bring Christ up from the dead)." But what does it say? "(K)THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART"--that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that (L)if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and (M)believe in your heart that (N)God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.

For the Scripture says, "(O)WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED."

We discussed if all of them had of lived in peace and trust of God's word, given Love and Peace to each other as they journey through out their days in faith that His will is good, perfect AND pleasing.  All this would have allowed Issace to die in peace - but can you imagine THIS being your last will and testiment to your family legacy?  I don't know about you but I would be ready to check out of this family and move forward, what about you?

I pray that we all not depend on our understanding and scheming to manipulate how to "come into" our inheritance - but that we lean on God's understanding and trust that He is continually working out our journey - moment by moment.  For this is the New Day that the Lord had given and we will rejoice in its new mercies and grace day by day.   

We can extend love and peace however, if we start manipulating actions in order to coerce them into receiving them we will be walking into the colliseum with all those witnesses watching up as we beat them up with all our goodness in our attemts.  Isn't that Ludacris?????

Kisses,
Candace

Because, Because, Because, Because, BECAUSE……….

Yesterday we had wonderful discussions about what we see up ahead. I thank you all for sharing the pieces of your lives so that we can have broader understanding of what we all saw. Don’t forget to keep your eyes set ahead. Remember the rear view mirror is only for glancing!

Because of the wonderful things He does…………

To continue on down our yellow brick road, “what if” Dorothy had not met the Tin Man? What if they had not met Scarecrow? Most importantly, what if Lion had not met them? Each of them knew the wonderful things the wizard had done; they believed he possessed a magical ability to transform them, why had they not traveled down this road of golden opportunity before?

Our primary verses we were discussing yesterday opened our discussion on thought life. So today I want you to think about this:

Do you equate God to the Wizard of Oz? Do you seek Him out because…because… because…because…because… because of the wonderful things he does? If that is the case, we do not love and desire a relationship with God we are using Him for what He can do for us. I don’t know about you but it really is disappointing, and rather hurtful, when I trust that someone desires friendship / relationship only to find out they wanted to use me for their gain. Relationships are supposed to be a “give” as well as a “take”. I also know we all have treated another like this; I hope it was inadvertent. Only God knows, so let us be quick to forgive…but always discern safety when allowing others back in. Sometimes we must do what is best for someone and not what they would like for us to do. That is Agape Love.

This Psalm speaks of the What If’s of Agape Love, I entitled the pros simply “IF” I pray each of you realize your peace that surpasses all understanding today….and know that you are loved by the One and Only God of the Universe.

In Christ,
Candace


IF

If I had not been called
I would not know how to answer
If I had not opened the door
He would not have entered
IF I had not welcomed him in
He would not have stayed
If I had not asked the question
He would not have answered
IF he had not been patient
I would not be able to share of his love
If I had not needed his encouragement
He would not have made it available
If I had not experienced hardship
I would not have know that I needed him
If he had not allowed me the pain of my choices
I would not have gained humility
If he had set no boundaries
I would not have grown
If I had not turned to Him
I would not know true peace
IF I had not desired TRUE peace
I would never have seen my Lord

My Lord loves through teaching,
He embraces and encourages while giving us more
He gives a wealth of strength and peace
We gain courage through facing the task
We employ peace to mentally stay true
There are so many facets of his love
We tend to only consider a few
We strive to accomplish in our own strength
Without Him, we have no lasting means
Conversing with Him grants us His visions
It is then that we understand
He desires to give us increase
because He still has much to do
We must be willing to empty our self;
To be filled with Him to the full
By this He dwells right here among us
In any form that will give Him room
He is not one….. He is many
He is abundant, everyone desiring to love
He is patient, kind and understanding
He is rich, poor, every race and language known
He is every size, every age and generation
His hope is for us all to know…..
We are to love deeply and tenderly,
Be open, honest and true,
To seek eagerly with passion;
To be genuine in all that we do
But mostly - to do all in freedom
With wings that will carry, cover and lift
Bringing others into His presence
A sacrifice He too chose to make
Together we are One…Complete…In Christ
By Candace Huffmaster ©