A Little Bit in Each of Us

A little bit of prodigal in each of us.

Tonight I watched a quality film called A Long Way Off and it really touched me. It is the best movie make of the parable "The Prodigal Son" that I've ever seen. All of a sudden certain details that Jesus put in the story were more relatable. The prodigal character almost seemed like a role that could have been mine had I made different decisions in life. Actually a lot of different people beyond the typical "wild child" could play that role.

What type of profile comes to mind when you picture someone in your mind that you classify as a prodigal son/daughter? Maybe they left the church right out of high school or college? Maybe they left their family for a more promiscuous lifestyle? Or maybe they have chosen to make career number one instead of more fulfilling things.

Now look in the mirror and ask yourself how far off from being classified as a prodigal from God are you. What if all of your financial investments began to fail? What if you lost your job and received little to no severance? What if your ministry just started to fall apart? What if former addictions became hard to resist again? What if more than one of these things happened in a one month span!?

Would you take your all the blessings, memories, and knowledge of God and walk away from him? Would you grow weary of his lifestyle and seek something else more "satisfying?" Would the prayers trickle? The Bible seem less appealing? Or would you justify not having to respond to any of the Holy Spirit's urging because you got this?

Whatever you see, is most likely not going to be pretty and not going to be comfortable--but do take that time to look....

What do you see in your self that's pulling you away from God?

photo credit: Jon.B. via photopin cc
photo credit: king of monks via photopin cc

Reflective Weekend

Dear God,

I get it. You gave me a pretty clear message this weekend and I didn't miss a thing. When I fall down, get back up. I need to make a habit out of drawing closer to you instead of relying on my feelings.Finally, I need to delight in your presence, especially on Sabbaths.

This was the first communion I have had in a long time. Thank you.

You love me. That is fact and I see that. I feel it, but I'm glad and reached out before I felt the warm and fuzzies. I live the principle of love.

Now take me into this new week with strength. You have promised that in your word. Ps. 28:7

Forgive me for my short comings and help me to let go of those short comings.

I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.

~Shana

In what ways has God spoken to you recently?

Reflections on the Year So Far

     As April has begun, I see that I have the opportunity to reflect. Reflect on the goodness of Christ during the past couple of months.

     Since writing The Truth About Helplessness, And the Answer Is, and With a Swiftness!, I have reconnected with God and His reality for me. I see that He was able to purge me of many doubt and fears. I may not have answers to all of my questions, but it's not as big a deal. I do not need all my questions answered. I feel like I have regained control over my life. I guess you can say that I feel empowered.

     Keeping all my frustrations would kept me in a negative place. When frustrations consume ones mind, they push out the voice of God leaving your own. However, your own voice will guide you no where.

      I encourage you to reflect on 2014 so far. I know that the story for this year is still in the beginning chapters, but be encouraged.

"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." Eph. 3:20

Start here:

   1. What challenges have I faced?

   2. What questions do I have for God?

   3. How has me blessed me through the trial?

   4. What character weakness could He be working on?

I know God will carry you through because He is able.

How do you think He is able? Share that with me below!