The Coke Can was Shaken...

It's late, I'm tired but I cannot seem to put down my Bible or lay my head down because my thoughts are flowing. It has truly been a day of rest for me. By that I mean, I went nowhere - didn't leave my house - yes, I showered and got dressed but never left the comforts of my own home.  And, because of that, I had more time to study, read, and talk with God.  I played with Luke all day and did some things around the house, but as I did these things, I remained open to the Spirit and it's utterly amazing what God will do for you and with you when you are diligently seeking Him.

By staying in tune today, I received answers to some very serious questions that I have been asking God.  I didn't receive the answers I wanted, but answers that I know, deep in my heart (through the Holy Spirit) are God's will.  I didn't receive all my answers but I received the comfort to know that those answers will come when God is ready to reveal them to me.

Then, tonight, I pulled out the Bible (for the 3rd or 4th time today) and began reading and God's words came to life for me. So much so that I can't stop reading.  I only stopped because I was so full of the Spirit that I had to share it with somebody - Landis is with his dad playing guitars so I guess anyone reading this is my audience.

Y'all, I'm just a little ole country girl from Thomasville, NC.  I came from a broken home with middle class parents who worked hard to make sure that I had everything I needed and wanted. I went on to receive a masters level education and even became a school leader. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband, a beautiful son, and parents and friends that love me and support me.  Why all these blessings? Because God loves me!  Do I have everything that I want? No! Do I live in a huge house? No (Matter of fact, it's quite small - which, I call cozy.) Do I drive a brand new car? No! Is my closet full of designer clothes? No! But....

You know what? I have Jesus and an unbelievable sense of peace, hope, and friendship that stays with me all the time.  As I grow nearer to God, I also have this huge desire to see others come to know Him - so much so that it hurts my heart sometimes.  I ask God constantly to show me my purpose and to open hearts to my message while giving me the right timing to share it.  God has answered this prayer in small ways but I continue to pray that my circle of Godly influence will increase.  I want to share God's message of salvation through Jesus' with everyone I know and I want them to accept it, live for Jesus and experience the joy I experience daily.

Speaking of joy - I want to say this - some people may think that if you accept Jesus as your personal savior that life becomes easy and you have no problems.  Let me tell you from experience - that is NOT the case. Matter of fact, finding Jesus brings light into your life and the Devil prefers darkness so often times you find yourself in battles with the enemy. However, when you know Jesus, you know who wins the battles and, ultimately, who will win the war!  Gang - I want YOU to be on Jesus' side when the war is over! I want YOU with me celebrating and worshiping with the lamb of God - Jesus - the one who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life (that in itself is amazing!), died on the cross carrying my sins and your sins, and then rose again (defeating death FOREVER).  That is who I will celebrate with one day and I pray that I will have the opportunity to help others celebrate with me.

I think I can rest now....thank you Lord for an awesome day!

Toddy
bumgarnernatasha@gmail.com