Youth Camp Hidden Treasure

I'm looking in the bus rearview window today thinking of the 60+ weeks of camp that I've been blessed to take part in. From the heat of Lake Texoma to the cool of Colorado mountain air, one thing was common to all: when we set aside time for God to speak to us, He never disappoints! 

Spiritual battles confronted in chapels, on hillsides, in dorms and devotions with many victories won that decided godly change for years to come. Yes, there were losses and casualties. I rejoice in the good things and am painfully aware of sin's deceptive power.

There were many difficulties and obstacles in every week and among every group. Prayer and the working of God's Holy Spirit still amazes me.

But I am thankful to have presented the opportunity to know the plan and will of God to those who would choose to follow.

 Salvation, surrendered lives to God and being able to have the forgiving longsuffering peace of God is the priceless gift in a purpose driven life.

"To seek the will of God is life's greatest adventure

To find the will of God is life's greatest discovery 

To do the will of God is life's greatest achievement"

Blessings: Drinking From The Saucer

 I've never made a fortune,
and I'll never make one now.
But it really doesn't matter
'cause I'm happy anyhow.

As I go along my journey
I'm reaping better than I've sowed.
I'm drinking from the saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

I don't have a lot of riches,

And sometimes the going's tough
But with kin and friends to love me
I think I'm rich enough.

I thank God for the blessings

That His mercy has bestowed.
I'm drinking from the saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed.

He gives me strength and courage
When the way grows steep and rough.
I'll not ask for other blessings for
I'm already blessed enough.

May we never be too busy
To help bear another's load.
Then we'll all be drinking from the saucer
When our cups have overflowed.

By John Paul Moore

A Yellow Flag or Thanking God For His Purpose?

 When things in our life happen that seem unfair or "against the rules" as I interpret them, I am reminded that I am not the referee but rather a disciple with much to learn about the faithful, tender, loving kindness of God.

My hope and strength is found as I bless the Lord in the middle of trouble, acknowledging God’s role in our lives and dwell instead on the greatness of our God. In Psalm 103, David knew trouble. He faced the threat of enemies, the consequences of his own sin, and the challenges of sorrow. Yet he also recognized the healing power of praise. He list reasons to turn our attention to God, who gives us many benefits:

 

• He forgives us, 
• heals us, 
• redeems us, 
• crowns us with love and compassion, 
• satisfies our desires, and 
• renews us. 

Focusing on God’s greatness puts hope in our troubled hearts. 

"Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children; To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all."

Psalm 103:1‭-‬5‭, ‬14‭-‬19 KJV

Milestones

Learning to conquer the the next challenge starts young. Once it is overcome, the next challenge rapidly presents itself.. so fast that we quickly forget the accomplishment and move on.. unless you are a grandparent with a camera.

I ran across this video yesterday and it brings back a flood of memories. And with the challenges that face us (in this case almost 10 years later), it is good to mark milestones and remember that God can help us to face todays challenges and give us the strength we need for today. Matthew 6:33 reminds us "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."