writemomentswithGod.blogspot.comcontinuing the journey
This devotional is designed to draw you closer to the heart of God.Following the Lord is every moment, every second ~ daily. This devotional is like sitting down with a good friend and sharing life together. As a young mom shares her day, truth is reflected. Sharing hurts and hopes, our directional guide from Scripture leads the way to triumph and caring. Peek in each morning with your Bible and pen close by. Come alongside as Rose shares her heart in practical ways of overcoming lack we may feel with encouragement to look to the Lord daily.
--Rose Chandler Johnson
Here is a snippet from one devotional day to share with you from Rose's devotional journal. Linger and don't rush through. Whether you enjoy sitting outside on a porch swing or rockers with a friend, or at your kitchen table, you will have a good springboard for your daily journey with God.
A Life of Service
~*~
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but
whoever loses his life for me will find it.
--Matthew 16:25 NIV
I remember the time, some twenty or so years ago, when my little children resolved around me like the planets circle the sun. I felt like I was holding them all in place, but God was holding us all. He was ever present.
One especially exhausting day, as I was changing a diaper and hurriedly juggling many tasks, I said aloud in exasperation, "I don't have a life!"
Without hesitation, the Lord responded emphatically to my words. In my spirit, I heard: No, you don't have a life. Didn't I tell you that whoever will save his life shall lose it, and whoever will lose his life for My sake shall find it?
These words came directly to me, personal and real—interjected into my train of thought by a voice of authority.
At that moment I knew the Lord had spoken to me. I realized I was doing exactly what He wanted me to do; I was taking care of the needs of my family. My service to them was not an obligation, but a holy calling—a vocation to serve the needs of those in my care.
Jesus became a servant to all, taking on the form of a servant in his earthly life. His service was love in action. His selfless love, for our redemption and God's glory, is a model for all believers. It is with this same spirit that we can dedicate our lives to His service. By doing so, we are strengthened to give of ourselves to others, in our families and beyond, as we go about our everyday lives.
Suggested Reading: Matthew 16:24-26; Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Corinthians 9:19; Philippians 2:7-8
Journaling Considerations: Can you think of times when your service to others causes you frustration? Self-pity?
( 5 blank lines)
What encouraging words would you like to hear at those times?
(5 blank lines)
In your own words, describe what Paul means in 1 Corinthians 9:19.
(5 blank lines)
Prayer: Dear God, I want to be at your service, doing whatever it is that you have called me to do this day. Strengthen me to serve. Give me the love I need to put into my actions. Show me the tasks you have called me to do, that I may live my life for Your glory.
Today's Sweet Tea Moment: What would Jesus do?
Prayer Focus: Those who devote their lives to God's service by serving others.
--God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, 69-72
Enjoy 52 devotionals and your time together with the Lord. Nothing is wasted with the Lord. As you draw near to Him, you will discover the richness of His Word and His love for you. May you be blessed as His sweet fragrance overflows to others.
Rose Chandler Johnson, a Southern girl from a tiny Georgia town, is the author of the devotional blog, Write Moments with God. A devoted Christian and mother of six, she has been a teacher of English and French over the last twenty years. She looks forward to continuing her writing ministry in the years ahead.***Thank you to author Rose Chandler Johnson for sending me a copy of her devotional, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea. This review has been written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Kathleen, what a beautiful review. Thank you so much. May His grace and peace be with you.
ReplyDeleteRose, One of my most precious times was quiet time while staying at a friends while our home was drywalled ~ sitting quietly together in the early morning while we both did our Bible study and the Lord was so near. May others find journaling and writing out prayers bring them closer to the Heart of God. And... my husband and I are meeting them for lunch tomorrow! Kathleen
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting about his book, Kathleen. I snagged it from Amazon and look forward to digging into the truths and encouragement that it holds. Over the years, I have journaled off and on but I hope this will help me do so on a regular basis. Make a habit out of it, you know. {{hugs}}
ReplyDeleteThank you Anne for getting a copy of God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea. I pray it will be a blessings to you. Yes, grab a pen and notebook too. It's a wonderful rejuvenating practice. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kathleen, for the wonderful write up on Rose Chandler Johnson's "God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea." I think your use of one of Rose's devotionals was one of those "God things" that Rose talks about. I am out of school for the summer and at home with my two young children. For some reason, last week, when I read your review for the first time (and today when I reread it) had been extremely crazy with the two of them so I really connected with this particular devotional. Thanks for your support of Rose and her book that means so much to me!
ReplyDelete