A Look at New Year's Eve with Suggestions for New Year's Day

Will it be another grand occasion,
A New Year’s celebration,
A putting-on an attitude, party-on time?

Will there be parades for viewing,
Football games, and over-doing,
All the sociable expectations that come to mind?

Or will there be time for introspection,
Honest sizing-up intentions,
Looking for a sincerely spiritual point of view?

Could we look past the drinking, eating,
the people that we’re meeting,
not neglecting what’s most important for anyone to do?

We could pause for reflection,
Confess we’ve missed perfection,
Gratefully consider how greatly God has been blessing you.

Learn from situations of the past,
Forgive each other now, at last,
And schedule in time to daily pray and read God’s Word, too.

So, let’s go past the decorations,
The New Year’s speculations,
Despite the troubles looming all around the world we see.

Let’s choose to have a brand-new Year
With confidence, not fear,
Trusting and walking with the Lord obediently.

by Elaine Hardt ©2006

Me, Talking to Myself

Of all the things I could be doing
And there’s plenty I should do,
I need to regroup my self;
It’s time to renew!

Will the earth stop revolving
If I sit a moment here?
Can I listen to a glorious hymn
And enjoy what I hear?

Can I close my eyes to clutter
And release my tension’s pain?
‘Tis bliss to feel some peacefulness,
relax to its refrain.

I’ve been busy, way too busy,
I’m weary to the bone;
I’m thankful for God’s goodness
And quiet time alone.

By Elaine Hardt ©2006

Relief From Winter's Assault

In the midst of artificial holiday cheer
avoid deep drifts of aggravation,
the freeze of frustration,
slippery confusion.

There's relief for weary travelers,
Your Father invites you to come;
The Cross road is the way
And His love is the Son.

More than shelter from winter's assault
Faith conquers life's trials;
Walk in confidence, sing for joy,
Jesus Christ is real.

by Elaine Hardt ©1990

Just Another Christmas

Will it be just another Christmas,
Another sparkly Christmas,
Is it a putting-on, showing–up-the-Joneses kind of day?

Or does it have a deeper meaning,
A time past self-indulgence,
A place apart from your children’s carefree play?

No, it is not a last-year’s Christmas,
It’s time for new beginnings,
Put Jesus back into this annual holiday.

He is our Maker and Redeemer,
The Giver of the Best Gifts;
We need to turn our hearts and our lives to Him.

There’s joy and peace beyond description,
His love surpassing greatly,
So honor God today, and in everything.

And let’s go past the decorations,
The presents, get and giving,
Traditions that we’ve cherished and held on to, for so long.

Now we can have a brand-new Christmas,
A personal celebration
That makes all the difference in the world, and eternity.

By Elaine Hardt ©2001

Enjoy God's Christmas Presence

Have a holly, jolly Christmas,
And appreciate that meal;
There’s excitement in the air
That even the grown-ups feel.
But the lasting joy of Christmas
Is the love that surely shows,
For God’s presence comes through Jesus
And His peace, the believer knows.

Yes, there’s happiness for each receiver,
Who will turn to Him and pray;
Share the good news to all the others
That it’s possible to say:
Have a happy now and forever
And don’t forget it’s free.
When you live your life for Jesus
There is life eternally.

By Elaine Hardt ©2002

A Veteran Finds Victory & Recognition

I’ve been at war, the soldier said,
And still the battle rages within;
I’ve tried to just get over it
And be victor over sin.

But loneliness has captured me
And erected a tough old shell;
For all I know I’m surely doomed
And headed someday to hell.

But today someone has shown me care
And pointed me to the Lord,
So tentatively I’m praying to Him
And ready to cut that stubborn cord.

Devil, it’s you who kept me bound!
It seemed self-preservation,
But now I take a daring step
And accept Jesus and salvation.

God, You know I need acceptance
And You alone can make the way;
So no more frowns and ups and downs,
I’m a new person starting today!

By Elaine Hardt ©2006

A God So Big

A God so big and powerful; He created everything there is!
A God like that is scary!
A mere human cannot begin to understand Him or eternity,
And that mere human is me.

A God so small and vulnerable; baby born of a virgin
Lived as a mere man;
He was here on this insignificant planet Earth,
And that fact intrigues me.

A God awesome and holy; He knows about me,
Overwhelming that He even cares.
He made Himself known; He spoke to humans,
He made the only Way there could ever be.

A God so big that it’s scary;
A huge Unknown awaits us when we die.
The Bible tells about God and sin and forgiveness.
Thank you, Jesus for showing love we cannot deserve or earn;
I receive Your grace and pardon gratefully!

By Elaine Hardt ©2005

Why, Indeed!

Why be thankful when you can complain;
A little less/more sunshine, a little less/more rain.
Bankroll could be fatter, the garden more green;
Less crime in the cities, more decency seen.

Bald men need hair, more manners for youth;
Less bad news on TV, a lot more truth.
We’d like more new stuff, thanks to technology;
Where God fits in is getting harder to see.

Postpone old age so good people won’t die;
Not sure about the Bible, wish babies didn’t cry.
God, if You’re listening I’m sure in a muddle;
Complaining has stirred up a whole lot of trouble.

I really don’t want to grow crabby and such;
I sure could use a Thanksgiving touch.
I’m sick and tired of being depressed;
Lord, come into my heart; I really need Your rest.

So this is me, saying I’d like a new start
Show me how to live with a thankful heart.
***
By Elaine Hardt ©2000

Wondering . . .

What will our Father do
through me, through you?
What new adventure lies ahead
when we’re obedient, as His Word said?

What ways will He use
if faith is what we choose?
Who will He bless through our talk?
Who will He bless through our daily walk?

When we lay aside thoughts somber and gray,
welcome God’s glorious love today,
listen, obey, as He’s telling us to,
what in the world will our Father do?

# # #
by Elaine Hardt ©1997

ABCs for An Amazing Attitude

Avoid the anger,
Beat the blahs,
Clobber the complaining,
Discard depression,
Evict the evasion,
Forfeit the fear,
Give up grumbling,
Heave out the heaviness,
Ignore icky impulses,
Jettison the jitters,
Knock off the knavery,
Limit the lassitude,
Minimize the moaning,
Nix the nasties,
Obliterate the objecting,
Put down pessimism,
Quit the quandaries,
Relinquish the rubbish,
Stop the sniveling,
Terminate the trouble,
Unearth the uncertainties,
Vanish the vanity,
Whap the whining,
X-it the exaggeration,
Yield your yammer,
Zip the sassy lip.

God wants YOU to have an amazing attitude;
Get going, trust Him and obey.
He will help you do what needs to be done;
Happiness is doing it His way.

By Elaine Hardt ©2000

Autumn's Harvest

Remember the seeds you once held in your hand,
Small, smooth or rough, speckled or plain,
Dry bits of insignificance,
But full of potential; fascinating
miracles appear.

Remember the work, the time you invested,
Preparing, planting, tending, weeding,
seeing the miracle of seed to seedling,
From plant to produce, spring to autumn,
Harvest is near.

Consider yourself, your potential for growing,
Challenge comes to make you stronger;
God brings you through the storm,
Anticipate, receive His blessing;
Harvest is nearly here.

✍ Elaine Hardt ©2006

Advice From a Dead Man?

Recently an author’s statement caught my attention. She wrote that she follows a path of self-enlightenment by Buddha. I wondered what made her think that a dead man could help improve life in 2006.

I decided to sort out some information to pass along should I meet her or someone with a similar life philosophy.

One article, “Connecting With the Divine,” written by former atheist, Marilyn Adamson, at http://everystudent.com/features/connecting.html pointed out features of well-known world religions.

Men such as Buddha, Muhammad, and Confucius all identified themselves as teachers or prophets. None of them claimed to be God, and all of them died. Are these dead men qualified to help you and me?

What about the founders of the world religions?

Brief biographies reveal that none of these men claimed they would die for the sins of mankind.

Buddha, born circa 563 B.C. in Nepal, died c. 483 possibly of food poisoning. He began preaching after achieving “supreme enlightenment” at age 35. It’s claimed he escaped the cycle of rebirth. His teaching was a middle way between self-indulgence and self-mortification.

Mohammad, (570-632 A.D.) believed he had a message from an angel and warned of a Day of Judgment. Writer Mohd. Saleen wrote, “God’s Love Toward a Radical Muslim,” which has been posted at http://everystudent.com/wires/radical.html

Confucius (551-479 B.C.) taught ethics of virtue and humanism, but not a systematic theory of life and society. The belief is cornerstone to Chinese culture.

Hinduism comes from ancient India and has no single founder. They believe in many gods and reincarnation. Author Rabi Jaharaj wrote, “My Experience as a Hindu Guru” which is posted at http://everystudent.com/wires/rabi.html

Shinto comes from Japan, and is based on the rulers’ descent from the sun goddess. Veneration, festivals, and rituals are said to enable practitioners to live in accordance with divine will. They believe in a great host of deities.

What about modern religious thought?

Since all these men died are they in any position to give advice? Some might say, “We read books for advice and it doesn’t matter if the author is still living or not.” What about the New Age which does purport to give helpful and personalized advice?

An authority in astrology and psychic advice, Marcia Montenegro relates her fascinating life story, “A Strange-But-True Spiritual Journey” posted at http://everystudent.com/wires/marcia.html

Everyone who is serious about doing the right thing with their one and only lifetime will take a look at what everyone else is doing and saying, so they can make up their minds and follow their own path.

What about Jesus Christ?

With four biographies of Jesus and a total of 27 books by eyewitnesses in the New Testament of the Bible, we readily find major contrasts with other religions. Innumerable books have been written and sermons preached about Jesus, but here is a brief look at some of the highlights.

There’re some unpleasant teachings of Jesus:
1. Everyone has sinned.
2. God doesn’t like our sin and our sinful attitude.
3. There is punishment for sin. (Luke 13:5).

There are teachings only made by Jesus:
1. His death was to atone for our sins. (I Peter 2:24).
2. We can begin a relationship with God right now by asking for forgiveness. (I John 3:1).
3. There is no need for rituals, self-punishment, no uncertainties about the After Life. (Ephesians 2:8, 9).

There are some outstanding facts about his life and death:
1. He worked miracles, healed, raised people from the dead. (John 14:6-11).
2. He arose from the dead, and was seen by over 500 people in the next 40 days. (I Corinthians 15:6).
3. His coming and His life, death, and resurrection fulfilled over 300 prophecies which had been made more than 400 years earlier to the Jewish nation.

Want to take a chance?

You know people who are willing to “wait and see.” Why take a chance?

You know people who claim their good will outweigh the bad they’ve done. Why take a chance?

You know people who had godly parents and rely on that getting them past God’s requirements of a personal decision, a personal confession, and a personal relationship. Why take a chance?

You know some people who hate the idea of going to church, so ignore God. Why take a chance?

You do have a choice.

You can live your life to suit yourself. But, do remember that God loves you more than you can even imagine. He will forgive your sins, whatever you call that attitude or action. But you have to ask. Call it “prayer” or “conversation,” it’s better than advice from a dead man. ❤
©2006

Through the Storm

Dark clouds gather on the advancing wind,
The world has become a dangerous place;
Forces of evil are fighting to win,
Everywhere you see the wreckage of sin.

Temptations allure. What can a person do?
We need a bold confidence born of faith,
Remembering Who we believe,
Thankful for what we received.

Circumstances sometimes better, then worse,
Outnumbered by unbelievers,
God gives us this challenge to grow;
Surrounded, yes; discouraged, no!

Putting the struggle into perspective,
Continuing to trust and obey the Lord,
With an eternal destination in view
Keep in mind He will empower you.

God is greater than the wind and storm,
His amazing love revealed in Jesus;
One life to live, so we should see
Each day is opportunity.

By Elaine Hardt ©2006

Make a Memory

Make a memory with your children,
Spend some time to show you care;
Toys and trinkets can't replace those
Precious moments that you share.

Money doesn't buy real pleasure,
It doesn't matter where you live;
Children need your own attention,
Something only you can give.

Childhood's days pass all too quickly,
Happy memories all too few;
Plan to do that special something,
Take the time to go or do.

Make a memory with your children,
Take the time in busy days;.
Have some fun while they are growing,
Show your love in gentle ways.

by Elaine Hardt ©1977

As of September 4, 2006 a total of 87 websites have quoted this poem since it was first published in my book Four Minute Fun for Parent and Child. We give permisson for this poem to be quoted as long as my name and copyright notice appear.

Conversation With My Body

Good morning, body. It’s me, again.
Looks like I’ll be living in you another day.
I’d appreciate your cooperation.
I’ll try to be considerate and not push you too hard.
You’ll get some fuel and basic maintenance today.
Hopefully, you won’t need any major overhaul any time soon.
I like your many automatic features.
Right now each department is efficiently at work, not vainly vying for attention.
Since God gave you to me and put us together temporarily, let’s get along.
I’ll not obsess over your warts and wrinkles and occasional rumblings.
God tells me that one day you and I will be parting. I’ll go to Heaven
and someone will lay you down.
My Heavenly Father is going to give me a new body.
Jesus got a wonderful resurrected body after He died on the cross for my sins,
so I know my new body will be wonderful.
But that’s then; this is now.
Meanwhile, I command you to be healed, restored, full of health and energy,
by the authority of Jesus Christ.
Right now I am asking the Lord for wisdom on how to cooperate
with the healing and renewal He is putting on you and my mind and emotions.
It will happen, in His way, in His time.
So, here we go, you and I, on today’s adventure by faith.
Signing off,
Your Boss, ME.

What does the Bible say?
• “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.” Psalm 139:14.
• Jesus’ resurrection & His body: Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20.
• Jesus healed & sent His disciples to heal: mentioned 53 times in the Gospels.
• “And Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20.
• “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:33.
• “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out . . .” Acts 3:19.
• “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection:” Romans 6:5.
• “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:52.
• “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”
2 Corinthians 5:8.
• “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
• “Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24.
• “. . . though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16.
• “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind” Ephesians 4:23.

Maybe You're Wondering, Too

What if God answered our prayers
With an immediate, “yes” every time,
so we could count on His speedy reply?
We’d be His boss, and He, our employee,
Our wisdom replacing His;
We wouldn’t reflect or ask ourselves, “Why?”

We’d be feeling self-important,
Neglecting our need to trust and obey,
Plunging recklessly into things we’ve planned.
Carelessly we would shortchange our learning,
Forgetting humility,
Miss quiet moments in His loving hand;

God won’t let us be in control;
He alone is awesome and almighty.
But we’re expecting, when it’s not yet time,
Rest and remember His Word and goodness;
Ask for discernment and grace,
So thankful He is merciful and kind.

Are We Praying the Right Way?

Many sincere believers have complicated their prayer life. Are you and I praying the right way?
First, consider the wonderful simplicity of prayer that our Lord demonstrated and taught.
Jesus prayed alone a lot of times, but obviously He also prayed so that the disciples heard because they asked Him, “Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1, and following).
Jesus gave them an amazing and beautiful answer. It was unlike anything they were used to hearing. The words He used are now called “the Lord’s Prayer.” (Matthew 6:9, and following).

Simplicity that Jesus demonstrated
We have overlooked some aspects of this prayer. To pray like Jesus instructed here all a person has to do is address the prayer to “Our Father Who are in Heaven.” We do not have to search out from a long list of saints the one who would be most favorable to our petition. We do not even go through any intermediary, such as Jesus’ earthly mother, Mary.
First in the prayer we give God praise for Who He is; we acknowledge that He has a Kingdom and His will is to be accomplished, both in Heaven and on earth.
We ask for our daily needs, we ask forgiveness for our shortcomings, we ask to be delivered from the evil one.
Note, too, there is no command from Jesus that we must repeat and repeat the words of this model prayer that serves as a pattern for us.
Of course, this is not all Jesus said when He spoke to His Father. He must have spent more time in worship, praise, and discussing the progress of His life on earth. When He was praying in the garden He prayed for God to spare Him the ordeal just ahead, but relinquished His own will to be obedient to the Father’s will. (Luke 22;42).
Jesus prayed, giving thanks for food, as did all Jews. (Matthew 14:19, Mark 7:34, Luke 9:16, Luke 24:30).

Simplicity that the disciples demonstrated
Fast forward to the upper room where the disciples gathered after Jesus ascended to His Father. Note that these men and women were praying. One woman’s name we notice in particular. Mary, His earthly mother was there. No one was giving her any extra attention or praying to her, (Acts 1:12-14).

Simplicity in the New Testament
Now recall the events related in the letters of the New Testament. Mary is not mentioned, nor is prayer to her or prayer to any other great person mentioned or instructed.
This makes praying more simplified and wonderful than we had thought. We approach God, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, magnificent, holy, all-mighty, all-knowing, powerful loving Lord in these awesome words, “Our Father, Who are in Heaven.”
Such simplicity is the truth. Without elaboration the first believers practiced and taught about prayer that is so unlike what many people know.

What this simplicity means for us
We speak simply and honestly to God:
• with no “middle man,”
• no holy location,
• no payment of money,
• no need for organ music playing,
• no soft glow of candles,
• no stained glass windows.
We are free from needing
• prayer books,
• prayer instruction manuals,
• prayer teachers.
We are free from having
• the fear of “saying the wrong thing,”
• the fear of shocking God with our confession,
• the fear of forgetting all the details of what we need —and want—and when and how.

Prayer like this means we can commune directly with God. We may picture ourselves talking to Jesus or sitting on His lap, like one of those little children. (Matthew 19:13, Mark 10:14, Luke 18:16).
Another time we may picture ourselves in a glowing cloud of God’s glory, like Isaiah, overcome with His tremendous power and majesty, (Isaiah 6:1-8).
All through the day we can speak silently in our hearts to the Lord, knowing God’s Holy Spirit is dwelling inside of us, (John 14:16-17). No need to worry about a prayer not “rising above the ceiling.”
Prayer is far more important that we recognize. Not that God does not know, not that He wants to hear our version, not that He waits to hear our suggestions on how to solve the problem.

We do not pray . . .
We do not pray to impress each other, the people in Sunday School, the pastor who sits at our dinner table. We do not pray at meetings to add announcements of coming events. We do not pray to inflict lengthy lessons upon our children.
We do not pray like the heathen: prayer flags waving in the breeze, prayer wheels spinning in a courtyard, incense burning in a cloud of scented smoke.
We do not put our minds into a trance to commune with God. We do not offer sacrifices of food, animals, blood.
We do not pray to a female goddess. We do not pray according to positions of the sun, moon, and stars. We do not bow to a statue.
We do not come on the basis of our own ability to keep laws and commandments.

We do pray . . .
In beautiful simplicity and truth we pray as Jesus taught, as we find in the Bible. We talk to God with confidence, peace of mind, joy.
Our prayer is different from the person who is just now realizing his/her sin problem and understands that they face eternity sooner or later. This person prays to acknowledge their need of a Savior and invites Jesus into their heart. God hears this prayer! It doesn’t have to be “fancy” words or a special location.
Each of us who have sincerely accepted Jesus Christ as our own Savior now have a walk of faith ahead. God wants to hear our prayer. It is refreshing to pray, knowing that He is teaching us to trust and obey Him more fully.

Where are you?
Where are you in your life at this time? Where are you in your relationship with God? Is it time for a new beginning?

Let God show you how.
You and I can communicate to our Father with ordinary words at any time. He wants to hear from us.
Whisper a prayer to Him right now. Ask Him to show you what you need to believe — and pray — and do. ❤

What does the Bible say?
In the Old Testament, “pray, prays, prayed, praying,” or “prayer” are used 346 times.
In the New Testament, “pray, prays, prayed, praying” or “prayer” are used 142 times.
Other words such as “ask” and “confess” also convey the concept of prayer.

Psalm 32:5, I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” And You forgave the iniquity of my sin.

Psalm 51: 10, Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Matthew 6:8, “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.”

Matthew 21:22, “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”

Luke 11:13, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

John 14:13, “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”

John 15:16, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.”

Philippians 4:6, Be anxious for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

James 1:5, If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

1 John 5:14, Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

Look up and read these verses in their context.
A word search can help you find many more verses so you can learn for yourself what the Bible says, and you can pray the right way.

13 Reasons to be Happy!

1. There is a God. We aren’t alone in the Universe.

2. He made an astoundingly interesting world for us to live on.

3. He made us with amazingly complex and useful bodies to live in.

4. He lets us choose what to do and how to do it. He allows each one of us one lifetime to learn by experience.

5. He allows us to be affected by various items, so we can be motivated to learn. These items include such things as natural events, other people, and our own thoughts and actions.

6. Life is not just physical; there are spiritual aspects, too. Deception, lies, and evil of all kinds originated with Satan, and continue to harass us, but we can do something about the negative spiritual aspects.

7. We can know God’s intentions and His desired results. We can know His methods from what His Word tells us.

8. God made a way so our imperfections and sins can be forgiven. If we do it His way we can spend Eternity with Him in awesome joy and love.

9. There is no other religion or system of beliefs that offers a way to be pardoned and set free from sin, its effects, and its certain future. If there were some other way to be forgiven Jesus would not have had to die on the cross.

10. When we own up to our slightly flawed attitude, our slightly selfish and sometimes lazy life-style, and our slightly mean tendencies towards other people, then we are on the way to a wonderful new beginning.

11. When we say, “Father, this is too hard. I need You,” and when we say, “Father, I am sorry,” He is pleased that we are learning to be honest. When we say, “I agree with You, Father,” He is pleased that we are paying attention.

12. Even in the biggest trouble we can find some reason to be happy. It could be worse. Other people have it worse. We can handle it better now than we did before, because we are stronger. God did not plan for us to become gods, ourselves. We will always need Him; this is good.

Yes there are more reasons than these. You can probably think of some. One of the happiest thoughts a person can have is this: Since I asked God to forgive me and I invited Jesus to be my Savior and Friend that means I am ready to meet my Maker, my Heavenly Father after I die, and according to His Word I will live forever and ever. This is the ultimate security, the happiest reason for the happiest life.

Summer's Choices

Complain of the heat and humidity,
Complain about the bugs?
Or, plan to do something special,
Give encouragement and hugs.

Stew about the long distance driving,
the bus, the train, the plane?
Gripe about the unexpected,
or relinquish stress and stay sane.

Unpredictable summer!
The choosing is up to me;
Anticipate, enjoy, remember,
I’ll make it fun, certainly.

— Elaine Hardt ©2006

What Do You Say?

Check it out . . .

• Do you have a real hope for the future?

• Is there a reason for your hope?

• Can you put this reason into words for someone who asks?

• Are you ready to relate this reason if someone asks?

Can you convey this information with confidence because you know who you are, and with awesome appreciation for Who God is?

Perhaps we’ve read through this Bible verse much too quickly, thinking it was merely an example of some long-ago, godly people who were especially gifted with bravery.
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:
and be ready always to give an answer
to every man that asks you a reason
of the hope that is in you
with meekness and fear,”
(1 Peter 3:15).
Does this verse apply to you? Does it apply to me?

What if God really expects this of us!
If we THINK we lack specific direction and confidence, perhaps what we actually lack is blessing and empowerment.
The key may lie in those first words of the verse, “Sanctify the LORD God in your heart.”

Picture yourself standing before the King of Kings in His glory. Awestruck, you are speechless, but then your heart brings forth, “Oh, Lord and Savior. Thank You for forgiving my sins, for giving me eternal life.”
Overcome with His magnificent love and mercy, you kneel there as angels sing His praises. “God, I offer myself to you. I worship You as You deserve.” Time seems to stand still, there in that Heavenly Throne Room.

Now, are you ready to take your place back on earth and deny Him? Or ignore Him? Or turn aside when some lost person asks about Him?

Be certain of this: when you bow your heart before Him and honor and reverence Him, you will be changed. God’s Holy Spirit will indwell you in the amount that you allow Him room in your busy mind and life.
After that life-changing encounter you will be placed into Divine Appointments. People will come into your life, and they will notice if you speak with calm confidence. They will observe your kind attitude if you’re not grasping for attention. They will ponder what you say and how you say it. Perhaps there will be no visible miracle at that moment for them, but be assured God is at work. Leave the results to Him.

From time to time the pressures of life will surround you with confusion and agitation. If you neglect to speak to your Lord about this, then your eyes will be drawn to the spectacle of worldliness. It’s a show put on for you by Satan, the enemy of our souls.
Too frequently the words that float out of our mouths are not expressions of faith and hope and joy. Too readily we speak sarcasm, silly talk, small talk, irritation.
When that happens turn to the Lord and confess your actions and your attitude. Let Him restore you to the desire to please Him, alone.
Expect the same challenge to come to you again. The Lord is looking for you to trust Him and obey Him. He will bring opportunities.

Just reading a Bible verse now and then, just sending up a prayer once in awhile will not do it. Relationship with Him takes time spent together.
Like a race, life is full of hurdles. Unseen, others are cheering you on. God, Himself, Almighty Creator of All There Is, Savior and Lord — He blesses and empowers you to succeed.
If someone asks, are you ready? The way to be ready is to get ready now.
These words from the Bible are not a suggestion. “Be ready always to give an answer of the hope . . .”
So, what do you say?

Dealing with a Troubled Relationship

1. Thank God for giving you a glimmer of hope that He can help you through this difficult time in this troubled relationship. (Psalm 16:7-8)
2. Ask the Lord how to proceed. Be open to His leading. Be willing to wait quietly after you've prayed. (Psalm 37:7)
3. Honestly tell the Lord that what you've done has contributed to the problem.
4. If you have any known sin it must be confessed to the Lord. Don't overlook the power that little things have had over you, such as feelings of irritation, confusion, unwillingness to talk about the problem, keeping too busy to think about it, adopting a phony "I'm OK" attitude. (1 John 1:8)
5. For your own use write out your perspective of the problem, even if it's only a few sentences. Seeing it on paper helps bring focus.
6. Keep in mind that if for some reason you are not able to talk about the problem with the other person(s) you can still make progress, even by yourself.
7. You must be willing to forgive the other person(s), even if they aren't willing or able to agree that what they did was hurtful. When you relinquish your "right" to feel unhappy about them and the situation then you allow God to work actively in His own wisdom and in His own timing. (Colossians 3:13)
8. You must forgive yourself for falling into the sin or the problem. When you do not own up to your part and consciously forgive yourself you will give the devil an open door to come and stir things up again. (11 Corinthians 7:10)
9. You must receive forgiveness from the Lord and from your own heart. Speak it aloud. Write it down with your name and date. (1 John 1:9)
10. Be willing to take steps to bring healing to the other person as the Lord leads you. There might not be one big, all-encompassing thing that you are to do. There may instead be many little things. (11 Timothy 2:22-23)
11. Do not get discouraged. God is always faithful to His Word. He is actively working on your behalf. In fact, sometimes things seem to get worse before they get better. When you are close to a breakthrough the devil may intensify his attack. Let that remind you to come closer to the Lord. (Philippians 1:9-11)
12. Trust God for the healing of the relationship in His wisdom and in His timing. He wants to build your character and make you a godly person. Use this to bring you closer to God. (John 15:9-11) Continue reading His Word. Trust and obey.
# # #
By Elaine Hardt ©1992

An Encouraging Word

Who are you encouraging this week?

Ordinary chit-chat comes easily, just like making routine comments about the weather. But how about encouragement? How about mentoring? Both of these are strong, positive steps we each can take. It’s a blessing for others that brings to us opportunities for our own growth and spiritual development.

What is encouragement?
Encouragement comes in many flavors. It may be written or spoken. It may be acknowledging something accomplished by the other person. It may be a word to “stand strong” in the middle of a muddle. It may be a reminder that God has worked in the past and is now working in the current situation.

What is mentoring?
Something you know how to do, that you can pass on to someone else who’s trying to do it qualifies as “mentoring.” You don’t actually have to be an expert to mentor someone. You don’t have to be older and the other person, younger. Anyone with a caring heart can mentor anyone else who is the recipient of some of your time and interest.

Encouragement can be a big help.
A kind word can be a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Can’t you recall a time when someone, out of the blue, noticed your effort or achievement and said something to you? Have you been mentored on the job? Have you been mentored when you volunteered to do something at church? Maybe those were rare occasions; maybe you labored on unnoticed and unhelped.

Who needs it?
Look around your family, neighborhood, job, for starters. At one time or another probably each one of us could be greatly helped by some encouragement.

Why don’t we do this?
It’s probably not that we are uncaring, not that we are unable; the fact is most people hardly notice what’s going on in someone else’s life. We are simply, “busy!”
Actually, we can set our priorities and proceed, if we want to. As always, pray for the Lord’s direction. Ask, “Who? What? How?”

An example from the New Testament
Who in the Bible was an encourager or a mentor to someone? Several examples may come to mind. David and Jonathan, Elijah and Elisha. Others?
One New Testament example would be the disciple, John, and Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Remember that at the cross Jesus speaks to His beloved disciple and His mother who are witnessing the terrible scene.
“When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!”
Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!” And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home. (John 19:26-27).
Why didn’t Jesus put his mother Mary into the care of his brothers or sisters? Matthew 13:36, mentions “sisters.” Mark mentions his brothers by name, “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?…” (Mark 6:3).
Obviously, John and Jesus had developed a closeness that made Jesus’ statement understood to both. It was something Jesus had to say.
Some years later John wrote the Gospel of John, the letters I, II, III John, and finally the book of Revelation.
It has been suggested that John wrote the little letter of II John to Mary. Read for yourself the 13 verses of II John with that in mind. Consider that she, too, needed encouragement at that time in her life. Only one place in the Bible speaks of the Elect Lady.

How do we do this?
Each situation will suggest its own pathway. Picture yourself walking alongside that other person who the Lord has put on your heart. Don’t withhold little reminders of God’s grace or revelations of love.
“For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.” Philemon 1:7).
Don’t smother the person with your attention. Like a good parent, suggest something, offer to share some ideas, perhaps pass along some pertinent articles. Offer personal prayer ministry.
Don’t expect the undying gratitude of the person. Give them space to absorb, put it into practice, and grow at their own pace.
Being an encourager and/or a mentor doesn’t mean you’re setting yourself up for promotion or publicity. It’s a quiet, caring way of being submissive to the leading of God’s Holy Spirit.
As you bless others you yourself will be refreshed. Let this encourage you!
By Elaine Hardt ©2005

Thinking About God

God, it is interesting to think about You,
yet it is really scary, too.
I want to know that You are here and that You really care,
but the implications are overwhelming.

I am concerned about life; so much is beyond my control.
I am afraid of dying and being somewhere in a vast Eternity.
It's easier to pretend that nothing bothers me.

The little child part of me still sees You
as the smiling Jesus in Sunday School picture stories,
and as our Heavenly Father, the Great, Big Person who is very busy.

Forgive me for taking You for granted.
Forgive me for my ignorance and apathy.
Forgive me for leaving out of my daily life a conscious awareness of You.

Give me a new vision of You,
high and lifted up above the universe and all creation,
eternal, powerful, magnificent!

Give me a new vision of You,
Jesus, Messiah, Savior on the cross paying for my sins,
real man, real God!

Give me a new vision of You,
Holy Spirit, God in me, empowering me to trust and obey,
filling every part of me!

Your Word says I am to display Your splendor!
Come upon me, Awesome God; shine Your light on every part of my life.
Expose any sin; cast out everything that is false.
Take away my confusion and frustration.

Your Word says I am to do the works of the Kingdom,
standing boldly against the forces of the devil,
ministering love to the lost and needy.
It's breathtaking to imagine myself doing all of that.

Thank You for this incredible grace and peace and joy,
the free gift of salvation, the promise of Heaven.

I choose to follow You wholeheartedly for the rest of my life.
No matter what happens, I love You, God.
AMEN!

—Elaine Hardt ©1993

Problems, Trouble, Weariness, etc.

It was “one of those days . . . ”
Aggravating circumstances mounted an attack,
problem people caused me trouble and grief,
my body kept complaining with sickness and pain.
Finally, in desperation I called out to God,
and this is what He said:

It’s a test and it’s temporary;
Do it right or you’ll have to do it over.

People and problems are different everywhere,
yet the principles are the same for everyone.
There are lessons to learn; that’s the truth about life.
If you listen, My Spirit speaks to your spirit,
warning, instructing, reminding:
Stop that, my child. Let Me light your path.

Before fear can paralyze your zeal,
before anger simmers again,
before weariness dampens your joy,
you have another choice.
The right decision can be wrong if it’s too late.

You need to do it My way.
This is a spiritual matter and you’re in the war;
the only land you’ll obtain is
the land you fight for and take.

Your enemy, Satan, is real and his purpose is deadly.
This is a real battle, but the victory’s been won.
You’re there to build your character.

Doing it over the same way as before,
will give no better results than it already has.
Frustration waits to suck out your energy;
depression wants to claim your soul.
There’s no progress with passivity;
no testimony without a test.

So I cried: Lord, give me wisdom,
show me what pleases You the most.
You alone know what’s best;
Your presence in my life, Your power is what I need.
I am determined to do it Your way, now and always.

By Elaine Hardt ©2000

Joshua 1:6-9. Numbers 33:55,
John 14:26, II Timothy 1:7

Have you thought about this?

Congratulations on living as long as you have! You must have learned a lot of things, by now. Have you thought about this: what you now know may be interesting or helpful to someone else?
And consider this: many of us have thrown away a lesson we once learned,
simply because we never thought it through, and we have never written
it down. We struggled, survived, but then forgot it.
If we’ve coped with some calamity, but haven’t analyzed the situation, then there’s a big chance that we may face another calamity and have to learn the hard way, again. To profit from our past experiences we need to make sense of the cause and effect.
Tensions, temptations and transitions come to all.
None of us will live long enough to make all the mistakes and learn all the lessons first-hand. Learning from experiences — good and bad — of others can save us a lot of time!
Pour yourself a cup of coffee (or herbal tea) and take a walk down memory’s lane. See how you will answer the following:
• What has God taught me from failure?
• What has God taught me from lack of money?
• What has God taught me from pain — sorrow — depression?
• What has God taught me through waiting?
• What has God taught me through health issues?
• What has God taught me from disappointment?
• What have I learned from my family and my relationships?
• What have I learned from my church and small groups?
• What have I learned from my critics?
Major life lessons are worth thinking about. Some events can be extrapolated to yield useful insights into life, in general. Go ahead, and discover your responses to other thought-provoking questions:
• What have I learned from observing others?
• Was there a major turning point in my life?
• How did I see that life is worth living?
• What has brought me the most joy?
• Who have I been able to encourage?
• Who have I helped and challenged to greater spiritual awareness?
If you consider the effort you’ve put into your own survival and your own success so far, perhaps you’ll want to invest some time writing down the insights you have gained through your challenges, problems, circumstances. Don’t be put off by the word, “writing.” It isn’t an official-looking term paper for school. No teacher is going to red-mark your spelling or grammar! This project is for you, and you’ll judge its contents and appearance.
You’ll then be in a better position to grasp the value of your own life lessons. You’ll be able to more effectively share nuggets of wisdom with others.
Don’t be surprised if the Lord brings someone into your life who needs to hear some of what you have to say. Your success in dealing with some problem, addiction, grief, or illness may bring help and encouragement to others.

Why has God put you here on earth? First, to bring you to an awareness of Him, so you will want to turn your back on sin and invite Jesus into your heart. Receive Him and be baptized. Then, He will allow you to be part of His reaching out to others who need to hear the way of salvation so they can have a loving relationship with Him, too.
Sharing our life lessons with others is one way we can tell others about God’s grace.
“Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders;
make the most of every opportunity.”
(Colossians 4:5 NIV).
We are not expected to do this by our own abilities, clever arguments, or even heartfelt sincerity. God will enable and empower us by His Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:8). Be thankful for this!
Life is not meant to be a string of confusing and frustrating episodes without purpose or meaning. Find out what God has been doing in your life, then ask Him to show you how to make the most out of what you’ve got. Picture yourself hearing the awesome words, “Well done, good and faithful friend. Enter into the joy of My eternal presence.” (taken from Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:21, John 3:15 and John 15:14).
Have you thought about this?

By Elaine Hardt ©2003
“ Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way.
The Lord be with you all.”
(2 Thessalonians 3:16).