Josephine Mary Schmidt

A Place of Refuge for the Soul

Life in Christ

Life in Christ – Christmas Tree

When we think, at this time, of how God sent His Son, calling Him Jesus, may we meditate on Christ’s mercy.

“Great and Merciful God” was written soon after my deliverance from great darkness and the trickery of evil people. God’s mercy in Christ Jesus was so powerful, His love solid grace to forgive and revive, restore the soul, and give new life and victory over my enemies. It’s the reason why Christ came into this dark world as the light to rescue us from the ruler of the kingdom of darkness and bring us into the kingdom of the Son he loves (Colossians 1:13). The song, “Great and Merciful God” will be released in the new year.

I pray as you meditate, not on the twinkling beauty of lights and tinsel and shining tree – but Christ – fully man, and fully God to walk amongst us and teach us His ways and godliness. I pray we teach our children the true meaning of “Christmas.” The story we tell from our hearts, the Bible, and a life lived to please our Savior, friend, and Heavenly Father.

May we remember, in clarity, that we were lost but now found. That we were a people that had not received mercy, but now we have received mercy. (1 Peter 2:10).

My enemies were so confident that they could keep the love of God in Christ Jesus away from me. They had confidence in their trickery and evil to win over my soul and life. But Christ’s love in Jesus and His hope can’t be cut off. May we speak of it, rejoice in it, and share Jesus and His truth and gospel with everyone.

Christ Jesus is the light above our tree, and we, the many lights shining and proclaiming His life given for all to believe in and find their peace and rest in Jesus. 

Let’s be Christ’s Christmas tree this year and the next.

Jesus is the main light of the Christmas Tree and we His lights shining His message to the world

Be About Your Father’s Business

Josephine Mary Schmidt wearing a tee with "running" on it
“Run your race, as He said. Do the work of an evangelist as He led.” – Verse lyrics, Keep Believing.

We shouldn’t be reading the world’s story for us, but God’s! All around us, the world is telling us what it means to be useful, purposeful. But today, I was reading in God’s word the message He wants me to believe – “up is down,” or as Jesus’ puts it, we must lose our life to find it. At the end of this life’s journey, we are going to face Christ. He will immediately know, if we’ve done what we were supposed to -lose our life to find it for eternity. It won’t matter at that moment how well-dressed you were, or how well you could fix yourself up, or the house you lived in, or the holidays you went on. It will be your every day, small moments, when you were alone, your thoughts, the sum of them, the sum of you as a person – did you live for Christ and His gain, or something less important? Were you robbed by the Devil, the ruler of this world’s ways to believe you could have it all, a good life here, as well as in the next?

I hope not! Because God doesn’t have favorites, and He doesn’t show favoritism. What matters is whether we have abided in His Son and the Words He taught. Was His character in you? Or were you a stranger, someone who didn’t want to partake in the sufferings of Christ, the persecution, the exclusion, the low-position, the dismissal of those looking for a reward in this life?

Josephine Mary Schmidt sitting on the ground in the desert of Palm Springs

I wrote the chorus of Keep Believing at a time when I was disillusioned. I’ve spent years recording in my studio, and often many songs never see the light of day. I’ve been excluded as an artist, even by the body of Christ. I’ve been persecuted by believers, snubbed by those protecting their positions as singers and worship leaders for the Lord. I’ve been invisible. “Keep believing, keep believing in the Son of God.” It doesn’t matter what others think of you or their take on the gospel if it’s not rooted in truth. What matters is – are you abiding in Jesus? We must know Him personally, and we should be aware of what He’s calling us to do – our race.

Paul, the apostle, clearly knew his race. And he told others about it. Not is a boastful way, but in a protective way for the sheep. You see, our gifts and what Jesus is asking us to do, isn’t for ourselves. It is for the building up of the body and for it to come to the full measure of Christ. We have things that no one else can do, experiences, a relationship with Jesus that no one else can bring to the table. So, because of this truth, I’ve persevered, labored almost out of sight from others, to get the job done that Jesus has given me, to sing, and tell others about Him. I haven’t waited to get approval from others, or for the resources, or the abilities – I’ve always stepped out like the woman who gave her two pennies and put them in the offering box for God to use however He wanted. If I valued and assessed myself to the world’s standard, and sadly, so often to the “church’s” worship standards, I would have gone home, packed my bags and studio gear up, given away my guitar and left sulking. But that was my old life, and who knows to the extent of things God is doing with the little I have, and that brings me back to the song – Keep Believing. We all know what we are supposed to be doing, not looking by sight at our circumstances and the world’s story for us. But by faith we walk. And it’s lonely. There are only a few, Jesus said on His path; His flock is small, and not many are “sold out” for Christ. Are you sold out? What’s leading you? Is it your knowledge of the truth, or have you got side-swiped?

“Run your face, as He said. Do the work of an evangelist as He led,” (Verse – Keep Believing).

Even if we stand out brightly like this large bright red flower, we all must preach the gospel and endure in it.

I wasn’t going to finish this song I had started one day in the studio while recording something else. But Jesus wouldn’t let it go. Before it was finished, He kept bringing the chorus, often, to my mind. I prayed, and He wanted me to work on it. I prayed, and the verse was written. I prayed, and the studio production was finished. But its release was stalled. And then, when released, it was met with opposition, and iTunes didn’t release it. 

Constantly, every time I try and move in any direction regarding my music, bang – problems! I’ve come to expect them, but I’m never ready for them! It’s always a blow to the wind in my sails, and Jesus’ strength is knocked out of me, and I must hide myself in Him again and realize – don’t take it personally. It’s an attack on what I believe and an attack on Christ Jesus. It’s an attack on the message, the efforts to build up the body, speak truth and live the life of truth that Jesus led us to live – be the example, take the low-position, speak the truth, and not hold grudges!

“Keep Believing, keep believing in the Son of God.” 

We can look at other people’s lives and think they are fantastic. Or we can be thankful that whatever is happening to them isn’t happening to us. But the test is what the Bible says in 1 Peter 5:9 – that the same kind of suffering is happening to all the believers worldwide. 

Resist him, (the Devil) standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings (1 Peter 5:9).

That’s the hardest battle to win, the most challenging race to run – the race of faith because persecution and exclusions, and the desires for other things hit us when night after night, day after day, you are trying to live for Jesus, and it just gets harder and harder with more and more opposition and difficulties. We must keep our mind and heart on the prize. With no grumbling and complaining, grab this truth of 1 Peter 5:9 by the horns, and it’s an incredible release from what wants to drag us down to the pits of despair and never let you breathe. We fight the battle with faith, believing in the unfailing love of Jesus and the faithfulness of God that He will do, exactly, as He has said. We can put all our weight and soul on the truth of His Word, even our life, knowing that He will not fail to do as He has promised. Death’s door might be hovering over us, we might not have a cent to our name, and in deep despair. But if we put our faith in Jesus, He will see us through no matter, according to His Word and promises.

Peaceful garden setting
Peace comes from knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord.

This world values amounts – amount of money, amount of time, number of sponsors, or likes, number of followers or influences, and number of friends and clients. I’m so glad Jesus didn’t grade or value our need in the same manner. For, He said, few find it, the narrow path. 

So, what motivates you? – love, is it your motivator and the truth of God’s word? Do you long to be correct, activated by pleasing the King and helping just one person in the gospel of freedom. There is no other name under heaven and earth that anyone can call on to be saved. That name is Jesus Christ, but it brings judgment to many because they refuse to listen, accept and desire to be saved. They love darkness more than light, and I’m afraid we are seeing it more and more. People are less ashamed of evil. They are more out in the open about it, and they have little regard for one another. But today, I read, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (excessive pride in oneself). Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, (Philippians 2:3). Let’s put that on a bumper sticker and drive across town and see what happens! Of course, I’m not going to do that because judgment immediately falls on me for shoving the truth in front of someone else without love. 

It is through love and gentleness that we are to shine, by accepting that we will be hated and persecuted. But it’s okay, it’s what is to be expected, and it keeps us in check from stepping on the broad path, the path that doesn’t keep company with the One who humbled Himself, even to the point of death on a cross for our sake, to save us out from an eternity of utter darkness without Him.

“Keep Believing in the Son of God.”

Jesus said to Martha at the grave site of her brother, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). Jesus and Martha had a conversation in the garden, outside her home. He had told her that her brother would live and that He was the resurrection and the life. Jesus hadn’t come right away to heal Lazarus but allowed death to take its grip for greater understanding to be made known. And isn’t that God’s way with us! He allows suffering, hardships so that we see His glory and experience the true victory He wants us to have. So often, we can let the things of this world, the setbacks to stop us from reaching our full potential – and not run our race!

I want to encourage you today, don’t look at the standards this world gives you. Look to Jesus and know that His flock is small, and these times are evil where few are willing to lose their life to find it. Don’t measure yourself on others’ success but measure yourselves against the apostles and prophets of God and allow faithfulness to be your guide and measure of success. Because at the end of the day, it is what Jesus will measure our worth – were we faithful with what He had given us and what He wanted us to do? Our plans don’t amount to anything, 

I’d rather do one thing of lasting value than nothing at all, having wasted this whole life trying to satisfy my own desires and cravings. “Run your race, as He said, do the work of an evangelist as He led.” This song has encouraged me over and over to do just that when I’ve become jaded by the world and its relentless attack on the gospel, and anything related. The gospel must be the most important thing to us and persevering in it. Jesus stated this in Matthew 24:13-14. And it must be. If this is what Jesus is concerned with, then it’s your race to run. And you can only do it by believing in the Son of God.

But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come, (Matthew 24:13-14).

If you’ve liked this post or interested in this song, Keep Believing, download Josephine Mary Schmidt App from Stores and receive all updates and new music released.

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Changed for Good: Pursue the Right Choice

Listen to Jesus and not others who are not walking the talk.

Bible open to the passage where Jesus declared Himself as the Bread of Life

I’ve been having a lot of fun this week, delving into the knowledge of God’s Word. A repeated thought in 2 Peter is, “Make every effort.” And I am reminded of Jesus’ words to the crowd that following Him in John 6:27, “Work hard for the food that endures to eternal life.” So many are caught in a snare of the devil. They are working hard for things that don’t profit past a day or possibly sustain their satisfaction for a few. The devil is good at taking our desires and dreams and causing an obsession that keeps us from true righteousness and grace. Christians can be caught in the error of their ways, feeling like it’s okay with what they are doing. But reading Scripture shows us that there is a food and labor we must seek that leads to eternal life. Not our imaginations or dreams we are caught pursuing.

In John 6, a crowd runs around trying to find Jesus for food to fill their stomachs. Jesus says to them, don’t work hard for the temporary but seek me for the food that will profit you eternal life. One thing I noted in my mind is that our Heavenly Father already wants to give us our basic needs, food, and clothing. “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:32-33). But there is something we must do. When reading 2 Peter 1:6, there is this same thought of action, “Make every effort to add to your faith goodness and to goodness knowledge.” It continues with more growth and sustenance needed, “And to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness, and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.” Is this the pursuit of the world? No, and it isn’t. And it will not produce the love of God in us. 

The direction we must take is in opposition to this world’s dreams and hopes. We must be careful because, on the end day, Jesus will look at one thing – did you hear Him, and did you do what He said? Grace won’t cover us then because grace is given to change us from the wretched into the righteousness and holiness of God. It’s an impossible task on our own and takes place in an abiding relationship with Jesus Christ, seeking His righteousness first above everything else. We do this with our eyes off the world and the many examples in it, even many Christians. Our eyes and minds are to stay on the source of righteousness and feed on the Bread of Life from Jesus, believing in His Words and allowing them to develop in us. As I write this, I think of my song, “Fullness of You.”

I come and take the bread of life from You
You laid down Your life
So, I could be filled with You
The goodness of God
The mercy You bring to my soul.

(Sorry, I have yet to record this song – pray that I will.)

In 2 Peter 3:2, we are told, “recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Savior through your apostles.” We are talking about taking not of the complete account of the Scripture, the old and New Testament together. Nothing is out of alignment. All speak of the message of life found in Jesus Christ. There is no differentiation. 

I fear so many are casual in their minds and are not abiding but seeking what they can get from those around them and success. They are blinded and confused by the devil to feed and satisfy their dreams and hopes.

Single Stem Apricot Rose in a Glass Vase

Leo bought me a single stem rose the other day. It came wrapped in plastic. As soon as I unwrapped it and placed it in water, the rose began to bloom. In John Chapter 6:25, people were coming in Jesus for false hope. They were like this rose, wrapped in plastic. Jesus replies to these seekers, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you” (John 6:27). Jesus continues, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent” (John 6:29). Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35)

Let me ask you, “Is your hope in the right place? Are your roots in the living waters of Jesus, believing His Words? Or are you clothed in the hope of the temporary and of this world?”

A pink rose dying in a vase with most of it petals on the table

My daughter is giving a message this weekend to a group of young teenagers. She will give the same message that without coming to Jesus and believing in Him, we are like a single stem rose, a flower or plant, without hope of surviving. It’s the message I gave to a group of women in Haiti. Before I began the conference, I bought a bunch of flowers and placed them in a vase without water next to me. Throughout the three-day conference, these women watched these flowers wilt and slowly perish.

“I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty”

John 6:35

Come to Jesus every day. It’s so important to be feeding on the right source. God’s Word is the only thing that will endure forever, and we are like grass quickly withering and our youth and glory fading. Come to Jesus, hear His Words, and believe. It sounds simple, but it’s not when there is a road of traffic seeking temporary fame, speaking His name but not the reflection. So many have gone the way of Balaam. Their greed has taken them down a path that isn’t the righteous acts of the Saints, and they are leading many in the flock astray. Balaam was God’s prophet. He knew God, but his heart didn’t seek the righteousness of God. Come to Jesus, hear His message, and believe. In other words, make them your actions in your life. Obey them, abide in them, like the flower in a vase of living waters, and you will bloom. But not in an earthly manner, but heavenly.

When Leo bought me home this single stem rose, it spoke profoundly to my heart. God sees my laboring. So often, I am alone in my pursuits of what God is leading me to do – writing songs, producing them, sending them out, writing my book, blogs/posts, recording messages to teach. On and on it goes, and it’s lonely, unforgiving as I labor in a world against the righteousness of God. It’s not the path of worldly success, nor should it be because God’s ways are heavenly. They are offensive to the flesh and its desires and what the devil is trying to do in people. But what will it profit you if you die alone? (John 12:22) Alone without abiding in God’s Word and loving Him. 

“No eyes has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him”

2 Corinthians 2:9

I want to close with this thought because after I wrote my last paragraph about my suffering, I thought of Jesus going off on His own, alone somewhere on the mountainside. He didn’t have a home here to go to, and people so often didn’t understand Him. But at night, He sought His Heavenly Father, and they spoke together. I want to tell you through Jesus; God wants to have a relationship with you like this, the single stem rose where He’s sharing truth and His glory with you and how to be with Him forever. We have to choose this world with what we are pursuing – the righteousness of God or something else. And know that the devil is trying to use your heart like Balaam to get you to follow something of gain to self.

I fear a lot of Christians are being led astray by their desires. Paul wrote with tears, “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18). They love the things and the pursuits of this world. And they love them more than the sacrifice and obedience to the Lord who gave them the freedom to do His will above theirs.  We are being tested here in what we love. Will we be found worthy at the end? It’s a question God is asking each of us like he asked Peter, “Do you love me for than these?”

I hope this is an encouragement to you to take the lowly position, the humble and selfless seeking of Christ who offered Himself for the well-being of others and labored for the will of God that didn’t lead Him to glory in this world but in the heavens.

NEW SINGLE – Futility Freedom
About Josephine

At Jesus’ Word

Bible Open showing John 4:50

“The man took Jesus at his word,” John 4:50. 

There were plenty of signs and wonders Jesus was exercising around this Father who had asked Jesus to come to his home to heal his son.

“Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe,” John 4:48.

So often, we need to open our eyes and see what God is doing around us. We should take God at His word and not be forcing Him into doing miracles for us. And we shouldn’t seek them to strengthen our faith.

What has Jesus done in our lives – remember. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” John 20:29.

This royal officer, after Jesus’ words to him about seeking signs and wonders, still begged. “Sir, come down before my child dies,” John 4:49. He called the Messiah, Sir. His faith not yet rooted in understanding Jesus as the Messiah and image of God in the flesh, come to redeem.

“Go,” Jesus replied, “Your son will live,” John 4:50.

Later, we read through this interaction with Christ that this man believed, he and his whole household. (John 4:53). “He took Jesus at His Word” – no longer begged and believed. This action is faith. He took God at His Word and acted accordingly. This man didn’t badger Christ anymore but departed in faith, and the miracle occurred at the exact time that he did!

A Bible Open to John 4:50

I fear today, so many are not taking Jesus at His word but rather seeking miracles, the spectacular, the show, the marvel. Faith is quiet, it believes in God’s Word, and it expects what Jesus promises. I encouraged you today, remember the promises of God, and through them, you will partake in the divine nature of God. Isn’t that what it’s all about, our transformation, not the spectacular. It’s so often a trap.

Signs and wonders occur so that we will believe, but after we have believed, we shouldn’t be seeking their glory but Christ’s.

Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

2 Peter 1:4

I took Jesus at His word, and it’s how I escaped demon possession and much trickery set against me. It was an impossible escape, accept by faith in Christ, I won. Today, it’s still the way I live, by trusting in Jesus and putting all my weight and faith on His Word. I had many miracles that Jesus used to help me understand and believe in the gospel. But it was through faith that they occurred and not by me seeking them.

About Josephine

Before this Father’s encounter with Jesus, the event that took place before – was of a woman meeting Jesus at a commonplace, a well. (John 4:1-42). There were no miracles. Yet, this lady believed Jesus’ words spoken to her as a prophet, and then finally as the Messiah. Her belief came from her encounter with the Truth. Jesus’ words cut deep into her heart, and He saw all that she was as a person. (“A Soul’s Worth,” the title song from A Soul’s Worth album.)

Jesus wants to have an intimate and personal relationship with us. It’s based not on miracles but trust and the truth and abiding.

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Not by Strength or Power – but in Christ’s Humility and Victory

Framed Philippians 4 verse 13 to show I value this verse
I have Philippians 4:13 displayed in my home to remind me of my friendship with Jesus Christ.

Before Jesus died on the cross, He told Peter that he would deny Him three times. (Luke 22:33-34.) Peter showed courage. He was determined to follow Jesus and had told Him, “I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” But we, on our own, can’t overcome the darkness, persecution, hate, anger, resentment. These come from the powers of the wicked one—Satan’s Kingdom and his ruling spirits of the air. Jesus defeated them on the cross, made a public spectacle of them, the Bible says in Colossians 2:15.

It is through our faith and trust in Jesus that we can overcome. 

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

1 Peter 5:6-9

There are many that yell and scream, demand that the powers of darkness retreat. But it is in the humility of Christ, our knowledge of Him, our love and adoration, our friendship, and, as the armor of God begins – first, “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10).

Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.”

Zechariah 4:6

We will cast our crowns before Jesus in heaven because we know this is true and that the overcoming power not to deny Him in this world came from His Spirit of courage, love, and sound mind.

I absolutely love all of this because my physical strength is becoming smaller as I age. But in Christ, I am as strong as an ox! I am an overcomer. “All who call on the Lord will be saved!” (Romans 10:13).

In our strength, we can’t do the will of God. Peter denied Jesus three times before He died. Peter was yet to receive the Holy Spirit and the victory. But today, in Christ, we can do all things.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” 

Philippians 4:13

How about you today? What is Jesus asking of you, that you know you don’t have the courage, the longevity, or strength within you to do. Ask Jesus, and accept His strong hand and friendship today, and walk in the power of what He’s done for us! Amen!

The Pottery Mobile Left on a Shelf

Pottery Mobile with words of God's attributes

This pottery mobile that I made, was sitting on a shelf in my pottery shed for ages. It was something, I believed, the Lord Jesus had given me the vision to make and the words to use: – “God extends these – friendship, mercy, strength, love, forgiveness, courage, blessings, truth, grace, empowerment.”

But one day, I knocked it off, and some of the pieces broke. I was so disappointed. I had meant to put it together, but other things took my time. Now it was broken.

Broken pieces of pottery mobile

I remade the pieces that broke, and in doing so, realized that I hadn’t made it correctly. For some of the parts, I needed to put a second hole. But it still, after I had finished, sat in my pottery shed. I never finished it, never strung it together until I read – Luke 19:25, “I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away.” 

These words are from a parable Jesus is teaching His disciples. Before my pottery mobile had popped back into my mind, I recalled these lyrics, “It won’t be long, my child…. and you’ll see my eyes of love” – “Rise with Me,” album, A Soul’s Worth. 

Jesus doesn’t want me missing out on any of His blessings. The parable in Luke 19 tells how a king rewards his servant and says to him, “Well done, my good servant!” his master replied. “Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.”

The day I read these words, I strung my pottery mobile together and hung it outside, in my courtyard. One of the reasons I hadn’t done it before was that I had given myself an elaborate plan to finish it. I wanted to put it out the front of the house as an evangelism thing so others might see it and know the love of God. But I needed to erect a lattice structure to hang my mobile. And I wanted to get some wire to string it together that couldn’t be cut to stop someone from stealing it. These weren’t the plans God had put in my heart, and they added to not getting the job done.

Maybe this mobile is to strengthen my faith in Christ by remembering these incredible attributes that God desires to extend to me? But this lesson has taught me a whole lot more. And it comes at a time when Jesus is asking me to complete a whole lot of things.

I’m glad my pottery mobile is finished and hanging outside my door. But when I put it together, initially, I wasn’t satisfied. I had hoped it would look better. Then I remembered the promise in God’s word that the eyes are never satisfied. I am creative. And so often, my vision doesn’t come out to the glory I hoped. But I know, in faithfulness and truth, God will do infinitely more than I can ever think or imagine with the things I faithfully do for Him. 

God isn’t condemning; He’s encouraging. Now I can look at these words on my mobile every day and be encouraged. 

God extends these – friendship, mercy, strength, love, forgiveness, courage, blessings, truth, grace, empowerment.

I hope this is an encouragement to you today. God bless you!

“Death and Destruction are never satisfied, and neither are human eyes: – Proverbs 27:10.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us” – Ephesians 3:20.

Rise With Me – Album, A Soul’s Worth
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A light has dawned, have you seen it?

the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” (Matthew 4:16)

This whole world lives under the shadow of death, but Jesus is calling each one of us to step out and embrace Him, the light that appeared like the dawn.

Dawn is the beginning of a new day. And Jesus promises that we will become new when we believe and put our faith in Him. “You believe in God; believe also in me” (John 14:1). Jesus, the Son of God who came down from the Father of all lights to give life, eternal, everlasting life to all who will believe, pick up their cross and follow Him.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24 NLT).

Powerful words to be remembered
Jesus spoke these words to me one day when I was struggling with discouragement.

What does pick up your cross mean? I prayed about understanding a while back. Jesus came to the cross sinless. We are to take up this same cross, be dead to sin’s ways, leave our old, sinful lives behind and follow His. Sin must no longer reign over us. Jesus is to take this role and place. Freedom is in Jesus, who defeated the powers of death and everything associated with sin – the devil, trickery, obstinance. Obstinance is a characteristic of being impossibly stubborn. We will walk on the other victory side of the cross with Jesus – risen and glorified – that power can be ours today if we believe and have faith in Him.

How do we have faith? Believe that His Words spoken are truth and put them in action. Don’t be like a blind person who hears but then walks away because they can’t see.

The words in the photo Jesus spoke to me on a day when I was discouraged. He reminded me He is the power of life, light, and the way I should follow – not looking to myself, but to the light that appeared out of the darkness like the dawn. Every day is a new day with Jesus when we trust Him and put our hope in His promises. Both will never fail. God says it’s His Word that will endure forever, and Jesus is alive forever-more! What better hope to put our trust! – Show the world that you’ve stepped out from that blanket of darkness and death and received life and the love of God through Christ. I hope that’s encouragement!

What do your thoughts hold?

A bible with a journal on top

Jesus knows our inner thoughts. He knows if they are healthy or destructive to us. We are to meditate on truth, feed on every Word of God. But you can’t do this if you don’t know the Word or the Spirit of Truth. 

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:16). We are all looking for peace in this world, a resting place. Jesus promises, from Him a peace comes, greater than any the world can offer. It dissolves worry and stress. And it’s in knowing Him that this true inner peace is given to us.

Who, or what are you seeking for rest, fulfillment, life, happiness? Is it’s from yourself or some hope from this world? If it is, then you will stay striving. But if you’re seeking to know Jesus and His life for you, then He will give you His peace and rest. It will follow. 

Have a Quiet Time every morning – pick up your Bible, invite Jesus into your heart and mind and life, and read it, begging for understanding. The light of the world came into the darkness to shine life. Jesus will be a friend mightier than any other. The Savior of the world longs to spend time with us and hold our lives together for eternity, far beyond any success this world can offer.

It truly is important to God, our thoughts, and what we are thinking. If our thoughts are healthy and strong and in the life of Christ, then our lives will reflect this strength and peace. We won’t be rushing about or worried about tomorrow. We will know who is holding our breath and beyond.

Read John Chapter Ten today and be amazed at what Jesus promises His children. Then stand on it. Read it for the next ten days and believe this passage, and I guarantee you will see changes like never, before in your life.

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+10&version=NIV

(Link to John Chapter 10)

Lamps are Generous

When we want to stay angry about something, or even if we don’t know why we are mad, it’s just a fact that we want to remain angry, then we are refusing the grace God wants to give us. 

My husband made the comment yesterday when we were out driving; “People are just angry, and they are driving like they are angry.” Drivers in California have got faster, weaving through traffic, making foolish decisions, cutting people off, and, well, driving like they want to run you off the road. It’s dangerous and frightening! 

Traffic on the San Diego Freeway
Traffic on the freeway in Los Angeles.

This increase in fast, angry, foolish drivers reminds me of what Jesus said the end times would be like – lawlessness would increase, and because it was, the love of many would grow cold. (Matthew 24:12) But this isn’t the way Christians are traveling. And our fruit, what’s developing and growing from our “tree,” us, tells others who we are. Are your eyes full of God’s generous Spirit? Or are you being taken over and being led along by darkness? Jesus warned when talking about lamps that we must make sure the light in us isn’t actually darkness. If our eyes were generous or healthy, then all of us would be full of light. 

  • Pottery Tea Candle Holder
  • car door open gorgeous light in background

We are to proclaim the goodness of God. But if our eyes are looking down on others, angry, complaining, and not focused on Jesus and His surrendered, gracious life, then we are fools living a life that doesn’t reflect our Master. 

Some days I want to get angry. But I know, immediately, that it’s a foothold for the Devil to get his hooks in us and make us look bad. I don’t belong to his kingdom, and I certainly want the light of life reflecting through me in every decision and attitude I display. 

A LAMP turned on to show light
A lamp is turned on to give light. Has Jesus granted you His Spirit, lit His flame in you? Then shine to those around you.

It takes courage to trust Jesus in every situation when the world around us is raging forward, seemingly winning with its display of anger and aggression, pushing the simple, or generous, aside. God doesn’t care for these proud, arrogant people. And I am always astounded at some of the actions of other drivers on the road or of the mouths of others I hear. But we are not to think they have the upper hand, and we must pray that our light and love penetrates their hearts before it’s too late and Jesus returns to set up His kingdom with an iron rod that will take no-nonsense. We must learn patience and endurance, and kindness. Pray to be filled with God’s generous spirit and our eyes healthy – looking on Christ and all He’s done and taught and not the error of this world. 

A lamp is lit and then place on a stand. Remember, you were once darkness, but now you are light. And that Jesus is coming back. Then Who we are will then be clearly revealed to all. Use eyes of generosity and love to make sure no darkness is found in you. 

Lamps are generous. I’ve never thought of it this way before. They give light to others so that they can see and not bump into things or be hindered by darkness. Lamps don’t demand anything back. They just need to be plugged in!

“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy,[a] your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy,[b] your body also is full of darkness. See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness. 36 Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you,” (Luke 11:33-36).

[a] – generous

[b] – stingy

A pottery tea candle holder with the words shine on it
I made this simple tea candle light holder to remind myself to be light in this world that is fast heading to destruction.

The Wise Continued on Their Journey to See Jesus

Star Christmas Ornament

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

I was profoundly blessed yesterday morning, on the 26th December, as I re-read the account of the wise men in Matthew 2:1-16 and learned again, the wise are the ones who persevere. The wise men’s journey to see the Messiah continued long after the celebration of His birth had occurred. I wanted to share my thoughts because Christmas might be over for so many people. But for a Christian, the pursuit of worshiping the Messiah face to face, continues, long after others have finished celebrating Christmas as a Festival. The wise men continued to follow the star, long after Christ’s brith that eventually led them to worship Jesus face to face. This is our journey! We are to be wise. Our day to day lives should be in this pursuit. That after our journey here in this dark world, we will reach our destination.

Remember, God, the Father, kept showing the wise me the star, leading them the way they should go to their success. And we have the Holy Spirit. Jesus said to His disciples in John Chapter 14 that they knew the way to where He was going, which was to return to the Father in heaven. Do you know that way? The way of following Jesus through the dark night of this world until you reach your Heavenly FAther’s destination for you – to worship Jesus face to face? I hope so. And it’s a long journey.

According to Matthew 2:16, it took these wise men anywhere up to two years. They arrived at the stable long after the excitement of “Christmas” was over. The world’s passion to know truth and the Savior whose reason for coming to this world was to reveal truth, is fading fast. The wise will continue on their journey, regardless of these fading passions of others to see their Messiah, Jesus face to face, and worshiping at His feet – blameless and pure before Him.

When investigating the star that the Wise Men followed, I discovered it was the worthless prophet Balaam, who disobeyed God’s message who prophesized about “a star that will come out of Jacob” (Numbers 24:17). A Savior, the scepter of God who would crush our enemies. Balaam had intended to curse God’s people, but the victorious hand of God didn’t allow this to happen. It’s a bit like Judas. He betrayed the Lord Jesus for money. But it did not hinder God’s plan in the offering of a Savior for the world’s sins. No one can stop God’s plans. It’s a wonderful things to remember in persecution and hardships. The word of God will stand forever. We can believe every promise it holds. 

The prophet tried to curse God’s people for money. Herod tried to murder the child that had come into the world to save people from their sins. There is much opposition to Christ. When praying about all of this, the Lord led me to read Colossians 4:3, a verse in Paul’s letter written in prison for his faith and service to Christ Jesus. Colossians 4:3 – “And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.”

Our mission is to proclaim Christ, and our lives should reflect that proclamation.

Let us keep praising the Lord Jesus in truth and praying for the harvest and an effective door to preach the gospel. The Wise Men knew the times, they saw the star that was prophesized long ago. And they were prepared to travel long distances, and over a long period of time until they were able to worship their King face to face. It’s an opportunity we all have. But we must be ready for the hardships and the difficulties it holds.

Some Things Just Last

The Washing Basket

I went to do my husband’s washing and grabbed the basket from his closed, and thought, “Some things just last!” I’ve had this cane wash basket for years and years. At one time, it belonged to my eldest daughter when a small child. I’ve kept it and still using it.

We are to be useful to the Lord Jesus. It’s our purpose to serve Him for people in His Kingdom. The Bible says we are to keep ourselves clean, ready, fit for His service. Everything we do should be with an attitude of kindness and serving others for the name and glory of Christ Jesus.

Hebrews 6:7-8 – Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end, it will be burned

We are given the grace of God through Jesus Christ, rain falling on us. And it is to produce a something for others, and in doing so, we will receive God’s blessing.

I desperately needed to know my purpose. I tried to find it, obtain it myself, in drawing and art, pottery, and as a singer-songwriter and performer. But my efforts disappointed me. I had no lasting satisfaction in the works of my hands.

But when I came to Christ, Jesus made known to me, His purpose. He showed me why I had a love for these things. It was to glorify Him and serve others with them – do all for the glory of Christ. Nothing we do for Him is ever in vain. I have a rich satisfaction inside of me because I know my purpose in Christ, and see Jesus helping me fulfill it as I trust Him and are diligent with my days. My songwriting is for Him, my singing, my art, and when I teach the Word as a teacher, it’s for Him to help others know Him. 

Jesus created my purpose, He gave me the tools and gifts, and set me on my way. It’s up to me if I fulfill my calling. Colossians 4:7 – Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” Jesus is with me; we are doing this fulfilling together. But ultimately, it is up to me to choose to serve Him willingly. I know, at times, I’ve felt entirely unworthy, unable, and fearful. But it is in lowliness that we serve just like this humble wash basket. I look at it with pleasure, I haven’t thrown it away, and I even brought it to the United States from Australia!  

Hebrews Chapter 6 and Verses 5 and 6 are the mark of a Christian – useful. I haven’t thrown away my basket, and the Lord holds dear and precious His servants.

We are to be useful to Jesus.

This message of usefulness, is what The Pottery Shed is all about. Join me as I explain the great Potter, God, and us, His clay and the Word of God.

By God’s Hands

Dusk over the city
Dusk over the city.

“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

2 Corinthians 3:18

I remember the first time I read this passage; I was so excited! I knew it was true. Jesus was alive in me, and the transformation work of God in me had begun. I was being changed. And this process still goes on today. Not that I’ve already obtained said Paul, but I press on. (Philippians 3:12) Paul gives both encouragement and testimony in the book of Philippians. It’s what we should be doing – showing others the power of God alive and at work in us. We, His believers, are the light of Christ, bringing the message of the gospel and a changed life, from sinner to a child of God, by the witness of our life.

“Follow my example,” encouraged and instructed Paul. (Philippians 3:17) 

I remember weeping to God in thankfulness for the apostle Paul and his life. If Paul hadn’t suffered in the way that he had for the gospel to bring the message of freedom and salvation to others, we would be lacking it! So many have taken their comfort in his life. Narrow and difficult is the way, Jesus said, and few find it. (Matthew 7:14) But Paul found it, and encouraged not only others to find it, but lived the result of Christ being received into his heart and life.

Aren’t you glad you found it? I presume you have since you are reading this post. Be encouraged and press on today. Live as Paul did, imitated Christ so others can find the King of Life and the love of God, He sent into the world to redeem His children. (1 Corinthians 1:11) 

Look to our Savior for the steps you are to take and be empowered. Remember, we are not alone. Thousands, upon thousands around the world, believe in Jesus. God has not left us as orphans. Jesus is with us today and every day. He is helping us work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Meaning, the fear of not disobeying our Father by not listening to His Son and His teaching and Word. We don’t want to miss out on His glorious transformation work in us that He wants to faithfully complete. (John 14/Philippians 2:12)

Scripture References:

  • Philippians 3:12 – Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
  • Philippians 3:17 – Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.
  • Matthew 7:14 – But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:11 – Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
  • Philippians 2:12 – Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,
  • John 14:18 –  I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

The Faithful

For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake His faithful one.”

Psalm 37:28

Jesus made this same promise to His disciples,

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

MATTHEW 28:10-20 NIV

They were His faithful ones, those that endured with Him through His trials. They had not turned back or left. They had left all to follow and learn from Christ. It led them to the cross and His death and scattering. But they were reunited by His resurrection from the dead, just as Jesus had tried to explain to them and promised.

Flowers Perish
Dried chamomile flowers on kitchen table.

We can trust Jesus, but His reward is with His faithful ones. Those who have left all to follow the Creator of life and who never turn back from their destiny with Him. Are you being faithful? This promise in Psalm 37:28, and in Matthew 28:18-20 only applies to those who are. We are to partner in the gospel, and in becoming teachers and spreading the word.  It will mean great temptations, persecutions, and suffering, but the reward will be everlasting life.  “Those who endure to the end will be saved,” Jesus proclaimed.  (Matthew 24:13) This enduring and faithfulness is our freedom, being united with Christ, filled with His Spirit, doing His work, and being wise.

Survival

One thing I notice about these deer that I walked amongst and took photos of in Kings Canyon, they weren’t like other deers. They weren’t like others deers I had seen – deers kept in zoos, or around city suburbs. These deers looked a little beat up! Their fur was ragged, as if they had parasites, maybe even ticks troubling them. They were beautiful, as deers are, but they appeared as if they were fighting for existence among the elements. I thought about what shared this land with these deers – mountain lions, and bears. They would be hunted by both of these. I watched their behavior, they tried to stick as a unit, and, they followed the lead deer.

Deer at Kings Canyon

Isn’t that like us? Fighting the good fight of faith among lions and bears of this world – the demonic realm. We are in a war, instructed to put our armor on, depend on Christ’s strength and pray. (Ephesians 6) We are instructed in God’s Word to be one minded, to have the mind of Christ and to follow our Lord’s life that He lived when He came to this earth. He is our example, our righteousness, our safety, and our deliverer to overcome the world – the Devil and deception, false prophets and teachers. The forces that threaten faith in Jesus Christ and a love for one another – a love like Jesus’ who laid His life down for our eternal glory.

These deers stuck together with one thought in mind – survival. They allowed me to walk fairly close to them as I took photographs. I wasn’t a threat to them. But they were cautious, every watching with a flee mentality. And we are to flee danger, run from it.

It is God who arms me with strength
    And keeps my way secure.
He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
    he causes me to stand on the heights. 
– Psalm 18:32-33

Foals at King Canyon

I love Psalm 18. It is all about survival. Surviving death and an enemy bent on destruction. But Jesus is the overcomer of all things evil and all things against His righteous reign to come into this world that will sustain forever. He has won this victory on the cross, banishing the powers of darkness from the triumph of death that they once held. They still roam, but only until the completion of the gospel.

Mind Where Christ Resides

When we watch TV, our minds are so often being filled with things that are not true, things not honorable, or giving testimony to our Lord. When we watch these programs, we are making our minds weak and susceptible to anxious thoughts when we are away from the television that rules so many lives. 

I came away from TV after coming to the Lord Jesus realizing the power of persuasion. The Devil doesn’t want us strong in the Word of God. He desires we live outside the instructions it holds and not leave the things of this world behind to concentrate all our weight on where Jesus is residing in heaven, a place waiting for those who believe in His name. Understanding isn’t something we turn on an off like a tap, but something we can do in the most simple of tasks. I can have communion with my Lord all the time, no matter the small job I’m doing like watering my pot plants. It’s our witness that matters to Jesus. What we are teaching others when words are not being spoken, and the understanding we display amongst the unseen spiritual forces of wickedness in this world.

What happened to the Israelites in the desert was written down in God’s word as an example to us – 1 Corinthians 10:1-6. The Israelites craved things that they had left behind. God was angry at their perspective. We are not to think we are missing out if we forgo TV, which portrays the ignorance of the knowledge of God and a life in slavery to the Devil. People might not understand your choice, but the spiritual forces of wickedness will be disappointed that they have missed the opportunity to weaken your mind and distract you from thinking heavenly where Christ, our Lord is seated.

I love spring, and eating my lunch outside today, I cherished all my spring flowers popping their heads upright in their glory. It’s such a short time we have here on this earth. Our beauty is like a fading flower, and as I looked at these spring flowers with the neighbor’s TV being heard over the fence, I pondered how I want to give all my time left to finish my race and complete the tasks the Lord Jesus has given me. As Paul stated in Acts 20:24 – “the task of testifying the good news of God’s grace.” There isn’t time to waste. God has things for us to do, and we must keep our minds sober and alert so we can pray. We can’t do any of these things by ourselves, but according to God in regard to the Spirit. (1 Peter 4:6-7)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. – Philippines 4:8 NIV

A Witness

For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.

Matthew 21:32 NIV

Isn’t this an amazing piece of Scripture? When I read these words it made me think of these questions – What witness has been given to you? Have you been blessed to meet someone whose life has been changed by Christ Jesus? What was your response to this testimony to the truth?

These thoughts reminded me of Hosea 10 where Israel was a spreading vine, not for the Lord, but for their own abundance. And the more they accumulated, the more they worshiped and gave honor to the gods of the land.

Israel was a spreading vine;
    he brought forth fruit for himself.
As his fruit increased,
    he built more altars;
as his land prospered,
    he adorned his sacred stones.

Hosea 10:1

It made me think – are we bearing fruit of truth or deception? Jesus came to testify to the truth. He told this to Pilat before He was executed and sentenced to death on a cross. We might also be met with hate or suffering for bearing to the truth. But it’s worth the harvest! – eternal life, when Jesus stands before the Father and declares, “I know them.

“You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

John 18:37 NIV

Reaping Life

Jesus told His disciples beforehand that He would be mocked and flogged and crucified. And on the third day, He would be raised to life! (Matthew 20:18-19)

Death is final to us. So often, in the last days before death strikes, horrible pain and terrible suffering accompany. Many, are dying from cancer, an awful disease. My husband, Leo maintains and repairs the machines that treat cancer patients. He sees many who are desperately ill and frail.

Jesus suffered and died. But He was raised to life! He offers eternal life to all who will come to Him, gentle and lowly like a lamb to give them relief from their suffering, hope to those who will believe in Him. Many, supply testimony to this truth. They have received new life in Him. Hope beyond this world. I am one.

“See, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.”

Matthew 20:18-19 ESV