Stocking My Pantry

My childhood years were riddled at times with hardships...there were many nights when my brother, sister and I had just a few pecans or a pancake for supper.
We would ask our Mother "where's yours Mama" and she would always reply "Go ahead I've already ate". I still sting from the realization that she had not eaten at all.

Even now my insecurity of having enough food in the house still haunts me. I tend to over buy and over stock my pantry. Fortunately I have a great husband who understands and usually indulges me but sometimes he gently reminds me it's okay.

Yesterday, as I stood looking into that pantry God spoke to my heart and helped me realize that I had plenty, more than enough and I always would because of Him.
I needed to concentrate on stocking my spiritual pantry, every prayer I pray, every scripture I read, every act of kindness, every bible study I attend, every time I raise my hands and voice to glorify His name I am stocking my pantry.

I am lining my shelves with "all the good stuff" the stuff that is going to sustain me until that great day when we will all dine at His table forever.

No more insecurities to haunt us from yesterday, no more
fear of failure, no more lack and worry.
We will be cradled safely in the arms of a Father who will never let His children need for anything again....

Deuteronomy 28: 5
Blessed shall be your basket and your store

Pushing Through

I have been getting up an hour earlier each morning and have started walking before work.
The stars are still in the sky and haven't yet given a sleepy nod to the sun and disappeared. The morning is still cool and sweet smelling, with a hint of bacon and coffee in the air. Birds are beginning to stir in the trees as morning shakes us from slumber to face another day.

I've enjoyed this solitary time, just me and the Lord, talking about everything. Praying and praising the mighty King knowing he is with me every step of the way.

There is one part of my walk that is "tough" on these old legs. There is a grade to the road and each morning I feel I can't do it! I want to quit ! Turn around and go back the easier way! I want to give up and give in.

There have been many times and situations in my life that I have felt those same feelings. Then I hear that small still voice inside encouraging, assuring, and pushing me through.
That voice that says you can do it, don't give in or give up, fight the good fight. Try harder, pray longer, surround yourself with me and you can conquer any hill, take any mountain, and face anything this world can use against you.

All we need to do in this life is lean on the Cross when we are weary and tired, read His Word when we lack knowledge and strength and Pray His peace and love over our lives when we feel we just can't push through.......

Acts 20: 24
But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the Grace of God