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A Walk to Remember - Encouragement Café - February 9, 2016

A Walk To Remember

Café Menu for Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Today’s Special is:  Walking Hand In Hand With Your Creator

Carefully prepared just for you by your friend, Aj Luck

Main Ingredient:

But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative--that is, the Holy Spirit--he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.

John 14:26 NLT

Entrée:

I just let go, and I feel exposed.  But it’s so beautiful, cause this is who I am…

I’ve been such a mess.  Now I can’t care less.  I could bleed to death, but Lord I’m ready now, all the walls are down time is running out and I want to make this count.  I ran away from you.  And I did what I wanted to, but I don’t want to let you down.  Oh Lord I’m ready now. Lord I’m ready now.

I was so caught up in who I’m not.  Can you please forgive me???

Song lyrics from Lord, I’m Ready Now by Plumb

These lyrics have been my heart's cry more times than I can count.  So often I have found myself in the midst of life’s journey - Angry.  Afraid.  Overwhelmed.  Discouraged. - but not being willing to be honest with myself.

I always knew God walked beside me.  I imagine we are walking on a well-worn grassy path surrounded by large trees with interlocking branches shading us just enough from the overwhelming heat of the sun.  Most days our walks are productive and conversations sweet.  

Then there are days where I feel as if I simply can’t take another step.  Paralyzed by my emotions or circumstances.  I imagine me rebellious.  

Sitting down on a tree stump, unable to go any further.  Jesus sits beside me.  No accusations or condemnation.  Only patience.  Grace.  Gently He offers unconditional love as well as unspoken yet tangible encouragement.

I don’t know the next steps.  I don’t know the how, where, when or what.  YET.  God promises that He will send us His Holy Spirit; our Constant Companion, Advocate and Teacher of all things.

Nobody EVER said life would be easy.  It’s not.  But God did promise us help.  Instruction.  Love.  Grace and a personal heavenly escort directly into the places He has destined to be all along.

WHEN life gets chaotic, remember, it’s okay to sit down.  Rest in God.  Lean into Him.  ASK Him for guidance.  Strength.  ENCOURAGEMENT and wisdom about what to do next.

He will provide it and so much more.  WHY?  You are HIS daughter and HIS favorite one at that!

He’s got you in the palm of His hand and He’s NEVER letting you go.  

You’re safe.  Your daddy has you.  

Take Out:

When you find yourself somewhat at a spiritual fork in the road, take a moment.  Breathe in deeply and exhale slowly.  Remember you are on a journey, an adventure with the very One who created you.  Extend grace to yourself, then ask for the Holy Spirit to once again direct your steps.  Invite wisdom to be your guide as well.

Get a 3 x 3 package of post it notes.  Write one, two, or a few words on each page.

BREATHE

EXHALE

FORGIVE YOURSELF

LEAN INTO JESUS

BABY STEPS

IT’S OKAY

HE IS IN CONTROL

I SURRENDER

GOD IS GOOD AND HE IS WITH ME

HE WILL TEACH ME ALL THINGS

MY ENCOURAGEMENT COMES FROM GOD ALONE

Your words or phrases can vary depending on what part of your journey you are on.  Put them in random places throughout your home, car, office etc.  Let them be visual reminders of encouragement.

KEEP GOING!  YOU ARE LOVED.  GOD IS WITH YOU!

Accept His encouragement so that at the right season, you will be able to give freely what God has given to you.

Dessert:

Dear Jesus, thank You that You love me in the midst of all my broken pieces.  Thank You for the Holy Spirit.  Thank You for sending a Teacher, Encourager and Constant Helper.  Thank You for knowing what I need before I need it.  Your love and provision is always perfect.  I love You.  May we continue to walk this journey called life together hand in hand God.  I need You every moment of every day.  Encourage me so that I may be an encourager to others.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

© 2016 by Aj Luck.  All rights reserved.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  Pull up a chair… He’s been waiting for you.

Need a refill?  Please join us at the Encouragement Café with Luann and Friends

The conversation at the Café is always hot and fresh.  We invite you to listen inas we gather around the table to discuss everyday life.

Comfort food for your soul is always on our menu, and friends are always close enough to hug.  We invite you to join us daily, as our writer’s share how the Lord continues to transform them into His glorious image.

Still craving more…Join us as we grow together in grace and truth through our online bible study.

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