Day 120 Springtime

You have put gladness in my heart, more than in the season that their grain and wine increased. Psalm 4:7

A glad heart comes not when I've got all my ducks in a row. Even if one duck wanders away, my heart can remain at peace. Not because of my circumstances but because of my God.

I have been in the middle of some trials but the joy in my heart remains. Because the sunshine in my life comes from knowing I am a beloved child of the most High God. With that knowledge I can face even the darkest moments.

Seattle is lush with new buds on trees, colorful rhododendrons in full bloom, and the blue sky that shines with the sun after the rain clouds move on.

Yes, it rains. But because of the rain I get to enjoy the view of the lush green trees beyond my deck as I listen to the birds sing their morning song.

I love spring because new hope blossoms. I can live with springtime in my heart because I live in the sunshine of God's love.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 30 devotional in the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell.

Day 119 Disharmony

Ask, and it shall be given you, seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. Luke 11:9


Lately it seems I've been asking God a lot of questions about my future. God makes the problems of life plain. It's most often the way I view them that causes disharmony.

His ways are so much higher than mine. God's kingdom is perfect. My ways are selfish and definitely far from perfect.

I've met so many people in my life who blame God when they don't see things happen the way they want or expect. I've been there myself. I've lived with my expectation rather than anticipation for what God has planned.

Most often things don't go my way because it's not what is best for me. God knows the bigger plan. He knows the beginning and the end. But I end up focusing only on what I can see and I live in disharmony.

For two years after our son Gabe was born with multiple birth defects and many puzzling diagnosis, my life was confusing and I lacked peace. Oh believe me, I wore the Devine smile and buried myself in work. On the outside it appeared there was harmony. That was far from the truth.

I wasn't turning it all over to the only one who had the answers. I was working in my own strength. I was trying with all my might to act like everything was hunky dory when deep inside I was one sad and confused woman.

Through a series of God given encounters with Bible believing and loving people, I realized that all of my self sufficiency was getting me nowhere. It's just like a mouse spinning and spinning on its wheel, going nowhere but working itself into a dizzy tizzy.

I am so thankful that I got off the crazy cycle and started seeking God instead of doing it on my own strength.
In obedience, honesty, discipline and love I found a never ending supply of power that brought harmony, joy and peace to my life.

So now when I feel disharmony creeping into my life, the first place I look is in the mirror. Just like I check my teeth for that dreaded piece of lettuce stuck to my snaggletooth, I check my heart for selfish things stuck there like disobedience, dishonesty and pride. I usually find one or more and I realize it's time for some brushing by the Holy Spirit through confession, prayer and study of God's Word.

The next place I look is the Bible where I always find an encouraging Word. It clears out the disharmony and soon I'm living in harmonious success. I've learned to stop and ask God for my needs. He is always faithful.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog came from the April 29 devotion in the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell.

Day 118 The Roundabout Way

Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luke 15:6

I like to imagine a laughing, smiling Jesus when he found THIS lost sheep. And boy was I lost. For many years I'd been making wrong turns in the roundabout of life and had found myself driving in circles doing the same old thing expecting different results. I was definitely lost on the road of life.

Recently our city added a few new roundabout intersections to help ease traffic. They allow the driver to continue through a major thoroughfare without stopping. As you yield to the right-of-way, you can make a right turn, curve around the central island and head straight or continue around the island to go left. A roundabout even allows you to make a complete u-turn and head back the way you came.

Here is an illustration of a roundabout in case you have not seen one.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ec/UK_Roundabout_8_Cars.gif (This is a roundabout in the UK so the cars drive on opposite sides of the road but you get my drift, right?)

This roundabout theme is very similar to the way my young adult life played out.

I often found myself going around in circles not sure which way to go. Different people in my life pointed in one direction or the other. Not sure which way to turn I usually went the wrong way and got lost. There was always that voice of reason calling me home but I was ignoring it.

Then one day a caring friend (Thanks Diane) took my hand and placed it back in the hand of Jesus. I had let go of God's hand for a number of years until I made a u-turn and headed back. Through fellowship at a Bible teaching church and study of God's Word on my own, I found the roadmap for living.

I came home to the realization that Jesus loved me with an everlasting love and He wanted me home. Even after I'd made some seriously wrong turns, His gift of grace welcomed me back. I returned to the faith in Jesus that my mom and dad introduced to me as a child. And I was welcomed home with open arms that hung on a cross for my sinful choices and those same hands then wiped away my tears.

The few scars that I received when I veered off the road are reminders to not go back. That was a very hard time in my life and I don't care to ever make that detour again.

God healed the wounds but left the scars as a reminder of who He is and how much better it is when I live in His truth.

I pray today that wherever you are in your life, that you'll listen to the voice of reason calling you home.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog came from the April 28 devotion in the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell.

PS. I'm catching up on getting my posts typed into my blog. I still love to write them with pen in hand and type them later. There is just something unique in the flow of my thoughts to my pen. So I hope you'll bear with me as I take my time getting the days I'm missing entered onto my blog. Thanks for the reminder – Jeanne Murphy – that there really are people who look for my blog every day! It was so good to see you and Jim and Ryan at Challenger Baseball this morning. You are an amazing and inspirational family.

Day 117 Seeing Christ

And he said, my presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest. Exodus 33:14

Can you feel God right beside you? He's there.

It is a good day when I pay attention to the fact that God's presence is near. He's always there for me as I walk in His will.

Oh how many times I've not noticed because I turned my back and focused on the busy day ahead.

For many years of my life I put God on the shelf. I didn't have time for Him. I didn't think I needed Him daily. He was more a vending machine God for me. I plugged in to church and good works when I needed the connection or help of some sort.

But once I began a daily quiet time studying the Bible and listening for God to speak through the Word, His presence was so apparent it often sent chills up my spine.

I saw Him in everyday things. I noticed answers to prayers. My anxiety was replaced with a calm assurance that everything would be okay.

God's presence was next to me this afternoon when my friend Karen showed up at my house to help organize Gabe's room to get it ready for him to move home. That is definitely the body of Christ in action. Thanks Mrs. Karen!

I know I will see Christ at work in my brother Bob who is having some health issues. Lord, I pray Bob sees you by his side as he walks through these medical tests and protocol to healing.

God is good. I know He will work all things for good in my life because I love Him.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The theme for this blog post came from the April 27 entry in the "God Calling" book edited by A.J. Russell.

Day 116 I Make the Opportunities

I can of myself do nothing. John 5:30

I need to remember that I really can't do anything on my own, without God. I mess it up when I try.

Yet sometimes I get overwhelmed. I was already there today as I got out of bed. My to-do list was long and fear started creeping in.

Today's devotional reminded me to have no fear. When I begin to worry and fret I need to STOP, drop to my knees and give it all to the only one who can help bring me peace.

So this morning I rested quietly with my Bible and journal open. This always opens opportunities for God to work.

We learn in Scripture that Jesus rested. He went to a quiet place to pray. He slept on the boat because constant activity was not part of God's plan.

I need to learn from Jesus.

When I'm tired and overwhelmed it's time to ask God which project on my list gets my attention first. Then I set the other items aside and rest in knowing that He will give me the supply of strength to accomplish His plan in His timing.

So today I'm going to live with God and for God. Then I'll watch the opportunities to serve Him come to me. He will give me the strength to carry them out.

Rest in His will today.

God Bless Your Heart

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog came from the April 26 "God Calling" devotional edited by AJ Russell.

Day 115 Bless Your Enemies

But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Matthew 5:44

That's a pretty heady Scripture to carry out. But with God's strength we can live this way. I know there is no way I can do it on my own.

Have you ever had a falling out with someone and then find yourself secretly wishing they would be taught a lesson?

Do you ever say "Serves them right." when a bad thing happens to someone who hurts you?

This isn't God's way. He asks us to bless them and leave the correcting and training to Him.

God gives us one important task. Love. We need to leave the rest up to Him.

Love breaks down the hard stuff and builds success.

God is love. He destroys evil and creates what is good.

Do you want harmony, beauty, joy and happiness? Then use God in your life to grace you with the ability to love all – even your enemies.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi
http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog came from the April 25 devotional in "God Calling" edited by AJ Russell

Day 114 I Go Before

And I give them eternal life; and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. John 10:28

I am so thankful that God's got His hand on me. My life surrendered to Him has assured me of eternal life. He goes before me to prepare the way. Even though sometimes I can feel the enemy's pull, God will never let me go.

This life with Jesus does not mean there won't be any hard work or troubles. Even the disciples who walked with Him in the flesh had to work and they had their share of troubles.

I've learned this lesson over and again as my family walks through trials. We've had to exercise our spiritual muscles as we climb over some steep challenges on our way to the mountain top.

Several years ago thirteen people journeyed with us to Camp Muir, one of the base camps of Mt. Rainier. Once we hit the top, the view from the camp was spectacular. We could see for miles.

Check out this view! This is our friend Ashley.

We could have gotten the same view by taking a helicopter to the camp. But it was in the journey up the mountain with sweaty foreheads and aching muscles that the lessons of trust and perseverance were learned.

The guys took turns carrying our son Gabe either in a back pack or in a snow sled once we hit the glacier. Here is Steve carrying Gabe on the first leg of the journey.

When we got to the snow field, the climbers ahead of us left stairs in the snow making our travel much easier.

Keeping Gabe hydrated as we trekked up the snow field. The team work was amazing.

Step by step we encouraged each other to keep going. We didn't let anyone lag behind.

In the same way, we walk step by step through life in the freedom Christ offers on our way to eternity. There are struggles that stretch us and make us grow. Sometimes we need the encouragement of another team member. The fellowship with the body of Christ helps us through life. Together we reach for the top and celebrate when we get there.

We all made it to Camp Muir and celebrated our victory then we took a break before our descent.

My sister Kathy and I pose as we begin the journey home.

I've already seen the view from the mountain.  I can't wait to see what it looks like from heaven.

Today I pray that you will know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will never perish because you have eternal life. Let God be your guide on this earthly journey leading toward eternal life. Step by Step He will show you the way because He's been there before.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 24 devotional in "God Calling" edited by A.J. Russell. Each morning I read this devotional and then I journal the thoughts that come as a result of what a read. It has been an amazing season of enjoying God's perfect timing for whatever I'm facing. This weekend I'm playing catch up by typing the journal entries I wrote earlier in the week.

My husband Steve is recovering from knee surgery and doing very well. I'm thankful for the doctor who successfully repaired his torn meniscus. This week we were also working with our son Gabe to make some decisions regarding college. He is taking a break this quarter and trying to figure out what he wants to do.

The time I spend in the morning with the Lord gives me the peace I need to get through some difficult days. Today I'm giving myself some extra time to read and pray and type out the blog entries I wrote in my journal earlier. I love it when I get a chance for a longer quiet time!

Day 107 The Two Joys

If you hold to my teaching then you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:31-21

I ask the Lord to give me a heart eager to do His will. When it is difficult I call on God. He finds that request irresistible and sends me the help I need.

God has a perfect will for my life. It should be welcomed with wonder because God wants the best for me.

I continue on with joy each day as I watch in wonder for God to work in my life. Some things seem to be a coincidence but as I spend more time in prayer and study of the Word I know it is really God's will. I see His hand on my life every day.

When I first learned of God there was joy of wonder. Then I studied Him more and it turned to joy of knowledge. These are the two joys.

I combat discipline, disappointment and disillusion in God's strength and I persevere by obeying God's will. I accept His discipline and I have joy.

No matter what circumstance I might be enduring, no one can ever take the joy of the Lord from me. This is a truth that sets me free.

I love God's timing! I needed this today because we are walking through a challenge. But God gives me joy in knowing He will get us to the other side.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 17 devotional in God Calling edited by AJ Russell.

PS. Looking for a Mother's Day gift?  Order the Caregivers' Devotions to Go book and a journal for a Mom in your life. I think it will bring them two joys as they care for those around them! Order both from my website.

Day 106 Love Your Servants

And we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16

God loves us, his servants. Jesus is one with the Father and we are one with Him. So we are love…

• To those we teach
• To those we work with
• To those we work for
• To our neighbors
• To our friends
• To our family
• To that stranger who crosses your path

Our goal is to put love into action in our daily lives.

Perfect love = perfect forgiveness. Where God is there is no lack of forgiveness. Where there is lack of forgiveness there is really a lack of love.

Oh help me God to forgive those who have broken my heart or hurt me in some way. I know You will give me the perfect love to pass on to others.

So love God first. He will give you the grace to love others. Pray much for love. Tender love is the secret.

God Bless Your Heart as you examine your acts of love today.

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 16 devotional in God Calling by AJ Russell

Day 105 Never Feel Inadequate

And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for me: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9

April 15. Tax day. I need strength.

STRESS! I'm posting my blogs a little late this week because I had to focus on some tax issues.

This devotional theme was good for me today because I was feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. But God's grace was enough to get me through.

The funny thing is that sometimes when I'm busy I don't spend as much quiet time in the morning. But it is in sitting before God that I hear Him speak to me and it gives me strength to complete the task at hand.

So here I am back in quiet meditation recovering from my own fretting. I've learned from God that it is important to remain calm. I can't carry out anything when I'm agitated.

I pray about everything then I focus on a few things until I get those accomplished. No need to stress about the rest. It will all work out.

I threw in my new Deluge CD on my trip to the post office to mail my tax return extension. I smiled the whole way as I belted out the new songs I've learned. Worship is a great stress reliever.

God sees, not as I see because he sees all things. So I think I'll leave it up to Him and stop stressing. I may be inadequate but He certainly is not.

Give him your stress today.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

The idea for this blog came from the April 15 devotion in the "God Calling" book edited by AJ Russell.

Today I wish a Happy Birthday to Ken Beckwith. God bless you Ken!

Day 104 Equally Yoked

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21

This particular verse has been spoken over me many times, even just last week as a woman named Ruth Handy prayed for me.

When we had lunch with Nick Vujicic he spoke this verse over Gabe too. It was a very wise word from an incredibly inspirational man.  I'm thankful we had time with him today even though it was a quick trip to Portland and back. It was worth it.

God is my constant guide. If I don't let the noise of the world drowned out His still small voice, then I can hear the direction He wants me to go. And where He takes me it's always fruitful.

I'm part of a City group at my church called INSPIRE. We meet for eight weeks to work toward the vision God has given each of us. This week we created a vision board to share with the group. It was fun to lay out the things God has placed on my heart for my writing and speaking career.

It is good to see it written down and placed before me on a cork board in my office. God's Word reminds us that without a vision, the people parish. So I'm writing my vision down.

When I focus on my vision and see God's purpose ahead, the obstacles in my way are cleared away and I move forward in His mighty power.

Steve and I are both keeping our eyes and ears open. God's guidance to us is intensified immeasurably in power because we are equally yoked in our desire to be with God and seek His plan.

I pray you will listen for God's voice as He directs you in the way you should go.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 14 devotional for God Calling edited by AJ Russell in 1932. I've found this devotional has inspired each blog because the Holy Spirit is alive in my life today and takes something written 78 years ago and applies it to my life today. Gotta love it!

PS.  I downloaded the new Deluge Unshakable CD from iTunes today. I can't stop listening to it. I haven't decided which song is my favorite but I'm leaning toward Worship.  Music speaks to the deepest part of my soul! The six hour road trip to Portland today went by much faster because I had incredible music and good conversation with my son Gabe the whole way!

Day 103 Gentle With All

Let love be without hypocrisy Romans 12:9

Today, April 13, 2010 is my son Gabe's 20^th birthday. I love being his mom and I am honored that God picked me for the job.

Gabe is an amazing young man who is constantly challenging me. He has made me a better person.

He loves without hypocrisy. He has given his heart to so many. Even in a life that is often difficult, he gives.

He is able to give because he has Jesus who sees and understands Gabe's heart. He knows the pain that life can sometimes bring when people don't know how to approach you. Jesus fully understood friends who abandoned him. Jesus gives Gabe the strength to do all things.

Gabe is not a victim. He understands that these things, the "stuff" of life, happen to every teenager. And quite frankly I think God removed some of his friends in order to protect Gabe from their lifestyle choices. But still, it's not an easy road.

I always encourage Gabe to lay his cares at the foot of the cross. In his lonely days I remind him that Jesus sticks closer than a brother.

I pray every day for Godly friends to reach out to Gabe and share life together. He is an amazing friend.

God's love is so big He has given Gabe incredible insight into the heart of others. He understands people in a way that is far beyond his years. It's almost like God has given Gabe supernatural glasses to see deep into their lives. It is a gift that will more fully develop as God reveals where to use it.

My prayer today for Gabe's birthday is that He will continue to seek God's purpose in this wisdom he's been given. There are so many hurting individuals who need the peace that passes understanding that God gives when we surrender it to Him. They need to hear about the love available to all.

I know God will release this in Gabe when he's ready. In the meantime I pray like crazy!

While Gabe is working out his own testimony, I am asking God to use his story mightily to touch the lives of millions of people.

On Wednesday Gabe is having lunch with Nick Vujicic again. (http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/) Nick's story is so inspiring that he receives 200 speaking requests per week. His vision is to continue to disciple the lives he speaks into so he doesn't leave them hanging after touching their hearts with his story.

I've been praying for many years that God would continue to use Gabe's story in the same way He is using Nick's.

It has been seven years since Gabe's life touched millions of people through Good Morning America and The Oprah Winfrey Show. Even after all these years we still encounter people who recognize the story and tell us how it touched their lives.

I pray that somehow Gabe and Nick will team up together and become a dynamic duo for God's kingdom. I continue to ask God to open new doors to reveal the plan to use Gabe's love for people to reach out and bless a hurting world.

Oh let this be Gabe's birthday gift today, Lord!

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

http://www.gabeshope.org/

The idea for this blog came from the April 13 devotional in the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell.

Day 102 Golden Opportunity

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

When I meditate on this Scripture I am reminded of the power of God to answer my prayers. He is waiting for me to ask and wants to give me an answer that exceeds my expectations.

So I choose to walk in His ways, ask for my needs and believe He will help me.

My need is God's golden opportunity to help me. My faith finds expression when I ask for what I need and give Him a chance to work. Then His power springs to action.

"Faith is the key that unlocks the storehouse of God's resources." (p113 God Calling)

Even a small amount of faith warms God's heart because my faith shows Him that I love and trust Him.

When our son Gabe was seven years old he made me a placemat for Mother's day. He cut out a paper doll woman wearing a triangle shaped dress and labeled it "Mom". He drew a stick figure of himself standing next to me.

On the side of the two figures he wrote. "I love my mom because she makes me a snack every day after school and then she reads good books to me, especially Commander Toad."

This imperfect work of art has held a prominent spot on my desk for thirteen years. The sweet love behind it stirred my heart. It made me want to give Gabe anything he asked for.

In the same way, God takes my imperfect faith and receives it with love. It stirs His heart and he takes my gift and crowns it with His perfection.

God is just waiting for me to ask so he can do exceeding abundantly above all that I ask!

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 12 devotional from the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell


Happy irthday today to my nephew Chris Murfitt!

Day 101 Hold Your Fort

So likewise whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:33

We had a wonderful day celebrating two men who are living their lives for Christ.

Our friend Ross Hanby celebrated his 50^th birthday today. An amazing man of God, Ross is a prayer warrior like no other.

We also had the privilege of witnessing our nephew Joe's baptism. He and three other students shared their testimony and the reason they wanted to get baptized.

Joe publically declared his commitment to Christ and shared about his desire to become a youth pastor. He'll graduate from high school in June and head off to college with a committment to serve God.

God has set him apart for His service.

Joe will make a great pastor. He'll transfer his athletic discipline to the discipline of studying God's word and touching the lives of the youth he encounters along the way.

I'm sure he'll move mountains as God uses him to change lives.

Both of these men are "holding the fort" and living with a different standard than the world. They have a standard of living movitated to serve Christ.

So I pray for God's Spirit of love to be showered on everyone God assigns to these men of God.

Congratulations Ross and Joe.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimuriftt.com/

The idea for this blog came from the April 11 devotion in God Calling edited by A.J. Russell.

Happy Anniversary to my brother Jim and sister-in-law Cathy Devine.

Day 100 Pride Bars the Way

And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep his commandments and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 1 John 3:22

I want to unlock the door of God's kingdom by love and obedience. As I obey I fall more and more in love with Jesus.

But obedience is sometimes difficult because of selfish pride. I wrote about pride the other day. It gets in the way of a lot of things in life. It stands at the door and blocks God's entrance.

God makes His home in the humble heart. Step by step I will humble myself and obey. Christ will help me along the way. He'll help you too.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 10 devotional in the God Calling book edited by AJ Russell.

Today was a busy day. It marks the 100^th day of this blog. Can you believe it? Writing every day for 100 days is good practice to make my writing better. I need it as I edit my Hope in Hard Times book.

It was a fun day. Gabe spoke at the Lion's Club conference in Renton. Then we went to our good friend Carl Berner's 75^th birthday party. Good friends, good food and good weather. What more can you ask for? A nap will top it off. J

I love my life!

Day 99 Risen Life

I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death… Philippians 3:10

From death to risen life. Death was the last thing Jesus destroyed. It is finished. The victory is complete.

What are some of the things that hinder us from this risen life? Laziness, depression, distrust, fear and selfishness are just a few.

At the cross Jesus finished everything that hinders.

• Sin is forgiven
• There is nothing to fear
• We can trust God because He is faithful
• Holy Spirit power helps us in our laziness
• Joy overcomes our depression
• We live for God and not ourselves

Let nothing hinder your risen life. This life in Christ is filled with beauty, holiness, joy and peace.

Arise and shine for the light has come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. Isaiah 60:1

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post was taken from the April 9 Devotional in the "God Calling" book edited by A.J. Russell.

Day 98 Marks of the Kingdom

Come out from among them and be separate says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17

I want to come out from the world and be marked by the Kingdom of God and distinguished as His child. I wore the marks of a worldly life for too long.

I have made a stand to confess before man that My God is the priority of my life, in my love and in my work.

My precious Easter offering is in giving my heart to the Lord.

All this stuff of the world means nothing to me if it takes me away from the one who saves. It's all going to perish anyway.

It is truly God that matters.

Nothing more and nothing less than Jesus love and righteousness.

He helps me every day to live as one marked by the Kingdom of God. God rejoices in my simple Easter offering of my love toward Him.

Even if I am deemed a fool in this world, it is all worth it because I'm marked and bound for eternity.

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post was taken from the April 8 devotional entry in God Calling by AJ Russell.


Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law Brad Murfitt today. I pray you will be blessed with good health and long life.

Day 97 Calvary

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ that lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God. Galatians 2:20

I remember distinctly the day God spoke directly to my heart and said "Gigi, I died for you. I have heard your prayers and I'm knocking on the door of your heart. Die to the old ways of trying to do it all on your own. Let the Spirit come alive in your heart and let me direct your life."

His voice made my heart glad as he met me at my point of need. Then I said "yes".

Can you imagine what Mary felt like as she recounted the horrific events of Good Friday? She searched for the tomb where her teacher lay dead.

He spoke her name "Mary" and her heart was glad because she found her love Rabboni alive!

When God spoke my name so clearly in the summer of 1982 I looked in the face of the risen Lord with the eyes of my broken heart and I wept. I cried buckets of tears for all of the years lost to my own selfish and sinful ways.

He wiped away every tear. He healed my broken heart. He pointed to the cross and said "I did it for you, Gigi."

God had been searching for me and knocking on the door of my heart for so many years.

When I opened the door my life began anew. I left my past at Calvary.

Now I am free.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The theme for this blog post came from the April 7 devotion in the "God Calling" book by AJ Russell. I love this book for how God is using it to speak to my needs every day. As I read the "For Sinners Only" book that spurred the writers of "God Calling" on I am amazed to watch the movement of God in the 1930's and to realize how my prayer for this kind of revival rings true today. Oh let it be so God!

Day 96 Easter Joy

Take therefore no thought for tomorrow. Matthew 6:34

God's got tomorrow covered so I'm going to simply live in the moment.

I'm dwelling in the blessing of Easter. Although Easter Sunday has passed us by, the joy of the resurrection lives on in my heart forever.

It's an amazing time of year. The roots have gone deep over the cold winter months and now the plants, flowers and trees are breaking ground and moving heavenward. What was dead is now alive.

The tulips are out in the Mt. Vernon valley. I can't wait to find time to go see them. A marvelous carpet of color is a reminder of the goodness of God and the beauty of creation.

Today I'm resting in God's love and giving Him my cares.

I am learning not to hold on to the "stuff" of life because I need my hands free to hold God's hand of blessing.

We received a beautiful blessing at home group through the prayers of our special friend Ruth Handy.

She prayed and prophesied over each one of us encouraging us in the Lord. She has such a sweet spirit as she seeks God speaks through her. God used Ruth's hands to pour out His blessing on all of us.

The Easter Joy keeps on giving. Thanks God!

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/
The idea for this blog post came from the April 6 devotional in the "God Calling" book by AJ Russell.

Day 95 Heart’s Interpreter

Return to your rest, O my soul; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you. Psalm 116:7

Rest. Is your soul rested or restless?

I feel the need for some rest in the Lord. I do not need more sleep. I need more quiet time where I allow God to be my heart interpreter. I can give Him the cares of my day and allow my soul to be at peace.

Sometimes when life is a bit crazy and I feel restless in my soul (my mind, my will and my emotions), all I want to do is sleep. I think a nap is the answer. But often times I wake up with the same worry on my heart.

It is the times that I sit quietly in God's presence that my soul quiets and I can go about my day feeling rested in the Lord. I've given Him my burdens and in turn He gives me energy and peace.

Too often we hold on to our problems and try to carry the heavy load ourselves. We don't share it with anyone, let alone with God.

I was talking to my sister Shelley the other day. We admitted that over the years there have been some areas of our hearts that remained a sealed book. There are stories of sin, heartache and disappointment we never shared.

I believe it is a pride thing. It's the way of my family. We always want to look good to family members and friends when in reality we might be dying inside.

But the truth of the matter is that in the sharing of our struggles and hopes and dreams the door of compassion opens and love enters to begin the healing process.

That is why I love story so much. We can see God at work in the stories of the people in our lives. Soon we are able to understand the mysteries of our loved ones and the understanding brings about a new love for each other.

Our hearts speak a unique language. God is the best interpreter of the heart. As we seek Him and share with each other, he helps us understand the language of other's soul.

I love this new season with my sisters where my life can be an open book as I share stories I've never told before. Suddenly we understand one another better and we can see how God has been there all along doing the work to draw us closer to Him and to each other.

I pray you will open your heart to God and let him be the interpreter of your story. Then I hope you'll share it with others so they can see the wonders of our Lord.

May your story bring Him glory!

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 5 entry in God Calling by A.J. Russell. This book was written in 1932 as two women sat quietly before the Lord every morning. I highly recommend this practice of sitting quietly in prayer with pen in hand before an open book with an open mind.

Day 94 Divine Efficiency

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it might be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory. 1 Peter 1:7

Over the last (almost) fifty-two years of my life my faith has indeed been tested with fire. I think we can all agree that life is not easy.

But my God is faithful. He has never left my side. The miracles are being worked out with Divine efficiency and Divine power.

My maiden name is Devine. So I don't mean that things worked out because of that kind of Devine power, although I tried all too often on my own Devine power to do the right things and live a godly life.

It was not until I surrendered it all to the Divine power of Jesus, the only power that lasts without needing a recharge, that my life started to make sense and hope lit the horizon. God's battery never runs out. He is always at work to light my path.

Think about the transformation of the apostles from meager fisherman to God fearing, sold-out disciples of Christ.

Even Peter denied Christ. With a little faith he was being made into the man God intended him to be. Peter later founded the church.

Peter discovered his weakness and turned it all over to Jesus. As we come to understand the sin then we even more so understand the Savior.

It is in our story of walking the road toward Jesus that will help others understand the power of the Cross.

That very road for me has at times had some large pot holes and speed bumps making the journey more difficult. But on that broken road God met me at my deepest need. I surrendered my Devine will for His Divine power and my life suddenly had purpose and meaning.

The training can sometimes be brutal as we work out our salvation. But the eternal results and the life-changing story is all worth it.

Today I pray you will share your story here on my blog. Write a comment of how your faith has been tested. I'm sure we will find praise and honor and glory in your story.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 4 entry in the God Calling devotional edited by A.J. Russell. I've found this book to be a helpful tool during my morning quiet time as I set before God and pray about my day.

This blog post was written on Easter Sunday. I am so thankful for the resurrection of Christ and his defeat of the sin that entangles us. I hope you have been touched by the hand of God as He reaches out and knocks on the door of your heart.

Day 93 Greatness is Service

Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say Rejoice. Philippians 4:4

The finest quality of greatness is service. Jesus rejoices in the service of His Church!

Jesus walked the earth as a servant. He blessed. He healed. He discipled His followers. He interceded. He even washed the disciple's feet.

I continue to ask God for clear direction regarding where to serve. I don't want to over commit myself so I need to take the time and pray through the areas I sense His leading.

I believe that my writing is an area where I serve God.

I serve not only in what I write but also in encouraging other writers through Northwest Christian Writer's Association. We meet monthly to help one another in our writing endeavors.

We are planning a conference in May which will help writers of all genre and levels of experience advance their writing goals. If you have a desire to write check out our organization. http://www.nwchristianwriters.org/

I also feel called to serve women young and old as they work through struggles related to their past choices and their identity in Christ. I'm excited for the books God has placed on my heart to help those I serve.

I keep asking Him as I head to the keyboard and write. Will this story or blog help those around me come to know You better, God? Is my story even worth telling?

I only tell it with hopes that it will draw others to understand the love of Christ and the healing power in that love.

So I rejoice as I serve! God is good.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 3 entry in the God Calling devotional book edited by AJ Russell.

Day 92 The Priceless Blessing

Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. John 14:21

The priceless blessing is that Jesus is here with us to help us obey as we live in this crazy world. He forgives us when we mess up. He lets us start new. He blesses me so much.

Jesus walked with the disciples every day. Now through the Holy Spirit He walks with you and me.We are changed by shedding the garment of our old life for a better one. Gradually as we walk closely to God we are transformed into His likeness.

I'm writing this blog on the way home from Portland where we spent the morning at the Portland Good Friday breakfast. This annual event raises awareness for many ministries in the Portland, OR area.

The main sponsor is a nonprofit organization titled Open Arms which serves orphans in Africa.

What an amazing show of support to hear Nick Vujicic speak about his life as he encouraged us that with Christ we can do all things. He is a dynamic speaker with a message of hope even though he was born with no arms and no legs. I love that guy!

It was powerful and many lives were changed. Today was indeed a priceless blessing.

Something else I thought about today is that twenty years ago on Good Friday our son Gabe was born. We had no idea what his life would be like with short arms and crooked legs.

That Good Friday was dark and scary for my family, just like the Good Friday two thousand years ago when Jesus hung on the cross.

But three days later the light of hope lit the broken hearts of all who loved Jesus.

In much the same way, Easter Sunday 1990 was the beginning of a life full of hope. We took Gabe home from the hospital that day and our lives have been touched by the hand of God ever since.

In the darkness of that day I could not see the future. But God has illuminated every step along the way.

Joy. Joy. Joy. The darkness of Good Friday will soon be over because Sunday is coming.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

 http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

 The idea for this blog post came from the April 2 devotional in the God Calling book edited by A.J. Russell

Blog Fast

This week I enjoyed my morning quiet time working through the God Calling devotional but I didn't post my blog notes. 

It was a crazy busy week of preparing to teach Ladies Bible Study, praying for a friend and traveling to Portland. 

Now that I'm home I think I'll turn on the fireplace and type out my journal notes while I listen to the wind and the rain.  I'll date them on the actual dates I wrote them in my journal so we stay in sync with the calendar.

That wind is crazy tonight!  It's like it's Good Friday or something and the world is feeling the effects of the death of our Savior.

BUT..Sunday is coming!  I LOVE Easter!

God Bless Your Heart,
Gigi

Day 91 Shut Out From God

Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also, and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. John 14:12

For a moment's horror, Jesus bore the sins of mankind, carrying the overwhelming weight of my sin and yours.

As a man filled with sin,  Jesus was shut out from the Father because sin separates us from the love of God.

Let the suffering in your life be used to draw you to the truth that Jesus knew suffering. He took it to the cross. He died bearing the weight of my sin. He who knew no sin became sin for all. It was the darkest day of His life.

But this I know – Sunday is coming! On that day Jesus overcame sin for us all.

On this Holy Thursday, in your garden of Gethsemane, remember the suffering of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

He suffered so you don't have to be shut out from God. Now Jesus stands in the gap between us and God and provides a way for us to cross the great divide to eternity.

Believe in Him. The works that He did you will be able to do by the power of the Holy Spirit. Then you will truly be able to do all things through Christ's strength.

God Bless Your Heart,

Gigi

http://www.gigimurfitt.com/

The idea for this blog post came from the April 1 entry in God Calling by A.J. Russell.

PS – I can't believe we are a quarter of the way through this year. Today, April 1^st is the birthday of my favorite spiritual dad – Bill Brubaker. Happy Birthday Bill!