*Chosen

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.  1 Peter 2:9-10

Do not forget that you are Chosen. God hand-made and hand-picked YOU to do His work. He knows all about your limitations and your struggles yet He still chose you. He isn't about to give up on you. You are a special possession! You are Royal. You are not common but you are unique. You don't look, talk, walk or act like everyone else because the King lives inside of you! You have something to offer and something to give. Even though you feel like maybe you don't know a whole lot or that you have messed up in the past; you know enough to make a difference in someone's life. You have a testimony that is in progress and it isn't to keep to yourself..it is to give away. Holy. You are holy...not perfect but you are set apart and you walk in God's mercy and grace every single day. You are dedicated to God and you belong to God. There is nothing you can do and no depths that you can go to change that. You are His. So hold up your head and walk with that authority that has been given to you and conquer your day. You are on assignment to change the world and you are not alone. 

You are Graciously Adorned, 

❤Jonna Gibson

*Chatterbox

Have you ever been around anyone that just talks endlessly? I mean about EVERYTHING and ANYTHING? It can be quite challenging to keep your attention in these situations. I mean, you really do not mean to be rude...but what in the world are they thinking??? Plus you can't get a word in even if you wanted too!

When you talk too much, you don’t listen. You only listen to your own voice. It is actually kinda dangerous to love to hear yourself speak because you start valuing your own opinion and you do not allow yourself to hear, listen or learn from others. 

The content of what you are saying is also important. Is it lifting up someone, is it valuable or honoring? If not then you need to check yourself. Vain babbling actually dilutes your testimony. WHAT? Yes. When you talk endlessly about things then it is like crying wolf...when you actually have something great to say...people do not want to listen! They run from you. 

The best avenue to take when you are in a group is to be AWARE. If you realize that you are babbling then stop and apologize and then ask questions...or better yet just be silent. Some people have problems with silence and think it needs to be filled. Silence is actually a greatly underestimated source of power. In silence, we can hear not only what is being said, but also what is not being said. We all know how to be silent. The question is: "Can we withstand the pressure to speak?” 

God gave us this great muscle in the tongue that can hurt us, help us or can define us....it all depends on how we use it. Unlike any other muscle in the body....the tongue is stronger when it is used the least. Let me encourage you today to measure your words and make them count. Don't be a chatterbox...be a person that speaks simple life-giving truth that makes a difference. Now that is powerful!

Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 17:28  

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. Proverbs 18:2

You are Graciously Adorned

❤Jonna Gibson

*Right To Roam

Have you ever wanted to go possess some land but your fears and your low confidence found you cowering in a corner? I mean sometimes after a great Sunday service I feel like I could go door to door and lead people to Christ just using one sentence! But as the emotions wane so does the passion or the courage to do what I thought I wanted to do. I find myself trying to even remember one scripture that I would share as I shrink back. 

Most of us know we have a God-call on our life and it involves taking territory in the form of souls from the enemy. But something stops us in our tracks and I think it is taking our God-given authority and using it. 

In Scotland there is a policy called “Right to Roam”. We were on a tour bus and our guide shared with us that all land is accessible to the public in Scotland unless otherwise posted. The people have been given the authority to walk or hike or explore any property as long as their intent is just simply enjoying the views and the land. It gives people the ability to enjoy large expanses of property and fields to picnic on, camp overnight or just to take photos if it is uninhabited. It doesn’t matter who owns it because the authority has been given already to the people. 

It really surprised me because in the USA most of our land is littered with signs that say "no trespassing" or "Keep Out:  Violators will be Prosecuted" etc. Strangers are not welcome or wanted on private land period. The police will be called out or you just might find yourself on the wrong side of a gun barrel! 

There may be some land that you are afraid to discover or maybe you don’t think you have the right to go there. Well God’s Word gives us that “Right to Roam”. We are not to be bound by our fears or our confidence levels but by the authority that God has given us. He is the landowner and He has given us all authority to take the land. It is our call and our God-given destiny. 

There are green pastures that you are meant to lie down in and quiet waters that He wants to refresh you with. No matter where He leads you...You have the RIGHT TO ROAM. His goodness and love follows you because He is your shepherd and you shouldn't be afraid. 

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he

refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. 

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalms 23

You are Graciously Adorned!
❤ Jonna

*My Lifeboat

When we purchased this British Isle cruise we knew that it was almost sold out. So when the travel agent told us that there was only one balcony room left...Don and I were super excited! She was quick to tell us though that the view was “obstructed” and she really had no idea what kind of obstructed view” it was. We told her that we were just so happy about getting the balcony that we really didn’t care. Finally the time came for us to board and the term “obstructed view” kept turning over in my mind as we made our way to our room. I want a good view of those Ireland and Scotland coastlines! I sure hope that it isn’t too bad.

When we opened our stateroom door... I have to tell you that I was shocked. I was shocked because the lifeboat that would rescue us in case of an emergency was actually hanging in front of our balcony! The previous thoughts of “oh we are just happy to have a balcony” flew out the window and in astonishment I opened the glass sliding door and got a closer look. 

While I was talking loudly about the big orange lifeboat that was in front of my face and so boldly ruining the beautiful view, I heard some chatter from the next balcony over. I glanced to my right and there were two couples in the adjoining balconies excitedly talking about the gorgeous ocean view and how beautiful it was. I looked out onto the water. What? Did they not see the eyesore that was in front of their very eyes? 

As I listened I started to feel ashamed. I smiled weakly and waved sheepishly their way when they noticed me. I then quickly closed the glass door and told Don. “I am just so glad to have this balcony room and to be on this cruise.” Don smiled not really knowing why my attitude had changed so quickly.

The couple next to us had a WAY worse view than we had. In fact they had a giant white hydraulic lift in front of them, but her perspective was different. She was looking beyond the obstacle and beyond what was right in front of her and could see the beauty beyond that. She may have had the same reaction as me when she first arrived but the difference was that she had already replaced her disappointment with gratefulness. 

Every morning me and my lifeboat had a nice chat on that balcony. It was lifeboat #7 and held 293 passengers. I kinda thought it might come in handy after all in case this ship turned into the Titanic. At times of course I wished that it wasn’t there but over the next 12 nights it started speaking to me. In fact I even stopped cropping it out of all my photos. It became a great memory of our trip. It reminded me to look higher. 

There are so many times that we dwell on the circumstances we cannot change that looms in front of us. It brings frustration, aggravation and even bitterness and adds nothing to our situation. We wonder why our life would look like if things were different. But by choosing to have a higher perspective we find contentment and then we can easily see the positive and the good in knowing that in everything and in every situation we can encounter joy if we look for it. 

You are Graciously Adorned
🖤Jonna

*As Is

We were in Italy and ordering some food at a quaint outdoor cafe. I am on a Keto diet and I am avoiding bread so I chose the omelette while my husband ordered pizza. I noticed that the omelette on the menu said “plain” and that meant just cheese and there were no other options listed. So I had plans to ask the waiter to add some ingredients such as mushrooms onions and maybe some meat. When I asked the very Italian waiter quickly gave me a loud “no”. I was very surprised and stuttered due to my shock and said “what?” Thinking that maybe with his thick accent I didn’t understand. To which he responded, it comes “as is and that is it”. “You will love it.” he said. So I closed my mouth which was still open due to my shock and awe and said meekly, “thank you”. Now my internal voice was having a quite colorful dialogue regarding customer service, astonishment and some embarrassment. How dare he!

I am used to choices and options and in America we can have it “our way” all the time. In fact if something cannot be altered or changed in some way then we get quite aggravated and God forbid if someone tells us “no”. We will have the CEO on speed dial and post negative reviews on facebook, Yelp etc within seconds on our phones.

I had to remember that we are in a different culture and I will have to set aside some of my mindsets and preferences in order to enjoy this country and the experience. So I straightened my self out internally and made sure that it showed on the outside as well. Let me just say...it was hard! Don was giving me "that" look that said "behave!"

It is so easy to think that everything and everyone has to conform to our ways. Well...maybe our way isn’t the best way. I know that sounds preposterous! But we will never know unless we try something different. So I waited in anticipation for this “Plain Cheese Omelette” and you know what? It was the best omelette that I have ever eaten. The chef really really knew what he was doing and had perfected his recipe.The waiter was so delighted when I responded positively about it...he had no doubts.

What kind of thing are you trying to alter or edit that has been already perfected for you? We have to trust that God knows what is best for us and is the giver of all perfect gifts. I have found myself so many times trying to let God know what plan would work best for my life.
No matter how you feel about what is going on in your life, God reminds us in Isaiah 43 1-5. He knows your name and that you belong to Him. He sees your every move, and there’s no place you can go where He won’t join you. He thinks about you, and He smiles over the idea of you. He will fight for you. He is good. He is freedom. So surrender to His ways. He is the master chef and His plans for you are “As Is”....and they are GOOD!

“Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you.
I’ve called your name. You’re mine.
When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you.
When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down.
When you’re between a rock and a hard place,
it won’t be a dead end—
Because I am God, your personal God,
The Holy of Israel, your Savior.
I paid a huge price for you:
That’s how much you mean to me!
That’s how much I love you!
I’d sell off the whole world to get you back,
trade the creation just for you. “So don’t be afraid: I’m with you.


You are Graciously Adorned

❤Jonna

*I Do Declare

The word declare was asked of us many times on our recent trip overseas. As we went from Italy to Spain and into France and the United Kingdom we would have to present our passports to an authorized agent at airports or cruise liners who would then ask “Do you have anything to declare?” Many times we would have to fill out a form called a Custom Declaration that would ask specifics about money, items purchased or if we had any food items in our possession. The custom agents are looking for specifics of what you have and what you are carrying with you as you enter their country. 

The word declare comes from the Hebrew achvah, meaning “to make known” or “to set forth an accounting of.” Anytime I heard this word I would think of its meaning spiritually. 

What we speak and what we have in us and what we possess spiritually is what we declare everyday. I personally have never had a person come up to me and ask me “what do you declare?”...outside of a custom agent. I most assuredly hope that what I declare can be seen visibly in everything that I do. 

You see what we declare is SO much more than some silly bag of souvenirs. We have valuable declarations that people are needing to hear. Our declarations can bring life into dead situations. They can bring hope to the hopeless and cause lives to be saved. So open your mouth and share what God has given you. Your testimony is your declaration.

So what are you declaring today?

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” --Proverbs 18:21 

You are Graciously Adorned
❤Jonna 

*You Can't Earn It

This world has taught us to earn. We have been conditioned like Pavlov's dogs to earn for as long as we can remember. When we are offered an award; we perform. Since childhood we have learned to earn praise and affirmation, good grades and accolades from teachers, awards from coaches. We hope  to get attention from our peers and then of course earning a paycheck from our employers. We learned to earn before we could even speak or walk. 

Our constant need and desire to earn goes against the grain of what God offers us. He gave us grace. We have a hard time accepting or even receiving gifts without feeling like we are worthy or working for it. We feel guilty about favor especially when it doesn't seem fair to others around us; we find ourselves apologizing! So what we do is overlook the FREE gift and we try to work for it instead. What is wrong with us? 

The deeper issue here is control. We are so used to controlling our destiny and our lives that we have a really hard time handing it over to God. We want our hands in it all. Somehow we think we know what we need instead of the creator of the world knowing. So we end up being slaves to ourselves and our own perspective  instead of living life like sons and daughters of the King.

So what’s the answer? Great question. I feel like first we have to truly understand who we are in His Kingdom. If we do not believe that we are worthy and loved without any strings attached then we will never function like we should. Most Christians live their life acting like a “red-headed stepchild” instead of chosen children. Quoting daily affirmations isn’t going to cut it either...trying to convince yourself with repetition only works for a season. There has to be a head and heart change.

Can you imagine being a Father and every day you have to convince your child that they are loved and wanted? How heartbreaking that would be! Our Heavenly Father longs for us to wake up and have that revelation of who we are. You can start today by asking for wisdom and receiving that gift of grace. Thank God every day for who HE is and for who YOU are. When you get that into your heart you will start making decisions and start thinking like a child of the King. You were born into greatness and God has a position for you in His Kingdom. So take your place.

You Are Graciously Adorned
❤Jonna

*BELIEVE When You Pray

Of all of the world's religions...Christianity is the one that encourages a person to actually BELIEVE what they pray. Think about it. When you think of the most devoted religions that boast prayer, who are they? Muslim, Buddhist, Jews and many other religions have very strict rules about when, where and how you pray. They are very rigid and in many of the countries these particular religions are the majority; if someone is viewed as not following the customs, the police get involved.

I've been on an airplane before going to Israel and while I was in the bathroom while unknown to me a prayer time was called by some Rabbi's and I found myself blocked by about 10 people and could barely exit the restroom but couldn't go any further than that. While I didn't want to bother them, there was a whole line of people that were trying to get back to their seats. I actually tapped one on the shoulder so that I could pass and he turned and said to me very sternly, "Don't bother us while we are praying! We should not be disturbed. You will just have to wait!" I will be honest...my eyes stung. I was shocked by what was happening. A young kid even threw up while trying to get past them and they barely stepped aside while the mom was trying to help her son....who was trying to get to the bathroom!

I was appalled because praying to me is a sweet time with my savior. Prayer to me brings me closer to Him and to the "why" that I am called to this Earth....to be the hands and feet of Jesus. How will people come to know Him if I do not reflect the love of my savior? So what were these people doing exactly? What was prayer to them? As I watched for what seemed ETERNITY as they chanted and repeated phrases and even some were wrapping tight bands around their arm in some ritual; I realized that what they were doing to them was obedience. It wasn't some sweet time of communion...it was something they HAD to do. They didn't look happy doing it either.

The act of praying and the act of obedience is so VERY important BUT if we aren't keeping the first thing..the first thing...then it is all for nothing. 1 Corinthians 13 is so very true when it states that if we DO all the right things but do not have LOVE...well we might as well not be doing anything. Love is what matters.

Every time you truly pray and make that heart connection, God is listening. Think about how amazing that is! God has the power to transform your life from the inside out through prayer. It isn't a religious thing that we do just because someone told us to or because custom says to do it. We pray because we want to talk to our Father and we want to hear Him speak to us. The Bible tells us, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16). When we pray, something always happens.

You are what you eat...you have heard that before. Well way more true and important than what you eat...is this, "You are what you pray". Your strength, your resolve, your ability to see things the way God sees thing and believe for the impossible is in direct proportion to your prayer life. What you put into it is exactly what you get out of it. You have seen those people who seem to have this amazing faith and the ability to have such great insight...well...I will guarantee you that they have a wonderful prayer life and relationship with Christ.

BELIEVE when you pray...it isn't a bed time thing or even a dinner table thing...it is YOUR lifeline with God. Sure it is hard to start especially if you have never really prayed before. But like anything wonderful in life....it will take some time to see your results...so don't give up....the enemy loves to put doubts in our mind. Rebuke that and keep going. God more than anything wants to hear from you and there is really NOTHING sweeter in this life.

Do you want to have power like never before? Well...PRAY. Prayer truly will change your life...if you will let it.


You are Graciously Adorned,
❤Jonna Gibson

*What IF

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. --Genesis 1:1-3

I know that we have all read Genesis one. After all it is all about creation of earth and man and the heavens. I dare say that most of us could name all the 7 days of creation and talk about Adam and Eve in the garden. It is such a known story and something most of us have heard a million times. But what does this really mean to you? 

If we know that the God of all created the heavens and earth as well as darkness and light in a day...well...what does that say about what He can really do? We have all been a part of some kind of miracle in our life or someone close to us...or maybe we have just heard about one. Why is it so hard for us to believe that God can do that for us? Why is it so hard for us to believe that God can come through for us? 

Sometimes we look at the Bible as a really good bedtime story or even a fairy tale that we enjoy hearing but we never really get those stories and make them personal. What if God wanted to promote you like He did David? Do you believe that you can come out a dirty job of tending "sheep" and be a King? Of course not...no one even has sheep around here and we don't even have a monarchy in the US. haha. True. BUT what if God had a great destiny for you and you just didn't believe it? What if everything in His plan was waiting for YOU to step out?

We have a limitless God. He has more than a thousand ways of solving your problems...but you have to believe at least one of them. God is a God of unlimited resources and He wants to supply YOU with a way to be victorious and prosper in whatever you put your hands to. What if He was just waiting on you? What if the answer to what you have been praying for is right in front of your face and you haven't even seen it. What if the friend you have been seeking has tried to befriend you several times but you didn't even realize it? What if your healing is waiting and you just haven't asked? What if your marriage hasn't been repaired because you haven't been listening to the voice of wisdom to know how to fix it? What if? 

My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.   Proverbs 2: 1-5

Pray this prayer with me: 

Lord, I thank You that You are the God of the impossible. You can do anything. You are truly a limitless God. I want to trust in Your ability and not my own. Teach me to see difficulties in my life from Your perspective. Help me to focus on You and Your power. Teach me to believe in a good report and focus on You even in hard circumstances. My responsibility is to carefully read, trust, and obey Your Word. Today I bring before You this difficulty in my life [Name a hard situation you are facing]. Help me not to fear but to trust You in this situation. Open my eyes to my next step and help me to be strong and courageous in you. Help me to speak your truth in this and bring life to it with your Godly wisdom and anointing. I declare my faith in Your ability to fulfill Your promises to me. You will fight for me and win the battles in my life. You are mighty, powerful, righteous and true. You are truly a limitless God. Amen.

You are Graciously Adorned

❤Jonna

*Approval

No matter how old or young or what stage you are in life...we all want some type of approval from peers, parents and those in authority over us. But what do you do when you never hear those words that you “think” you really need and yearn to hear? 

First of all,  Approval defined is the action of officially agreeing to something or accepting something as satisfactory or the belief that someone or something is good or acceptable. Synonyms to approval are acceptance, agreement, consent or permission. 

Admitting that we desire approval or validation from others is difficult, but recognizing it in ourselves is even more difficult because it is so very subtle. It gets hidden well beneath pride and low self-esteem. When we seek validation, we evaluate ourselves and others based upon external behaviors and choices, not on what Christ has done. 

Second Corinthians tell us, “For the love of Christ compels us . . . and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again” (5:14-15). We are loved by Christ, as shown in His death and resurrection, therefore we have been given the ultimate validation. This is the only true validation we need, and we have it.

God’s validation teaches us to regard no one according to their spiritual gift, their personality, their likeability factor, their racial or cultural background, or, yes, even their choices on open-ended issues. We regard them according to Christ’s validation. So does that include ourselves? Of Course!

I will admit that it hurts to not get approval in certain situations. There was a time in my life when I thought..."If only THIS person would say this or do that...then everything would be okay in me." What I was doing was putting someone else's opinions and reactions and placing it upon myself. When this person would not "take the bait" and compliment me or even acknowledge me about a certain accomplishment or success then I would be so upset. I put so much on this person to be my approval. I felt like a failure UNLESS they said this "something" and I just knew that when they finally would speak it...that it would just propel my life to another level. Haha. Doesn't that just sound outlandish?? 

It does sound outlandish but we all have been there. Approval from people doesn't come like we would like it. My husband has said for years, "Not everyone will celebrate with you." I had heard that over and over but I never truly understood what that meant for me personally. I had to come to the point that I don't need ANYONE to point me out or give me praise. God knows what I am doing and it isn't for the praise of people anyway. It took me a while to get to this place in my life....and it didn't happen overnight. 

We all want to feel accepted and approved. The desire to fit in somewhere lies within all of us. We try on different identities, seek out different places, and search for our best fit. But if we listen close enough, we will hear a voice inside that tells us that we don’t belong here, because we are not from here. So you will NEVER find totally acceptance or total "completeness" with any human. We belong with God, and until we seek our acceptance and approval from Him, we will always feel just a little bit like an outsider. 

Our true validation is knowing WHO we are in Christ and that means that CHRIST knows exactly who we are. He validates us every single day by speaking to us and loving us unconditionally. His grace and mercy never end and they are renewed to us every single day. Praises from man are temporal and fleeting. God's praises and His validation echos through eternity. 

You Are Graciously Adorned
❤Jonna 

*Seek Peace

The Bible is filled with verses that can bring peace in the middle of struggles, worries and fear.If we ask God, He promises us HIS peace "that passes understanding"! Use the below Bible verses when you feel overwhelmed and are unsure the next step to take.

The best thing you can do when you are filled with anxiety and worry is to find a quiet place to pray, read Scripture, and listen to encouraging worship music. God wants you to have a life lived to the fullest and that includes being at peace! So SEEK it out and pursue it!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 

Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. 1 Peter 3:11 

Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace;the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Isaiah 55:12

And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.James 3:18

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.  Colossians 3:15 

May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!  Psalm 29:11 

Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints; but let them not turn back to folly. Psalms 85:8

Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.                Psalm 119:165 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 

"For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.  2 Thessalonians 3:16 

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.  Isaiah 26:3 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.  John 14:27 

And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. And he shall be their peace.   Micah 5:4-5

Most people who lack peace simply have not taken the time to pursue it. God's peace comes to those with the personal discipline to stop in the midst of the craziness of life and take time to seek Him. It is a condition of peace that we cease from life's activity and know Him. He commands, "Be still, and know that I am God" Psalms 46:10.  .."And to those whose minds are steadfastly fixed on Him, He gives the gift of peace. " Isaiah 26: 3-4

You are Graciously Adorned!

❤Jonna

*Snow Day

Snow Day. It is a term that much in South Texas do not know much about...firsthand that is. We hear

about it in the movies or on the news but we really do not know the significance of a "snow day". Well we had our first hard freeze yesterday and about all of the state "closed" down. There really wasn't much snow to speak about...it was actually an "Ice Day". It isn't that we are afraid of ice and

snow...we close down because we don't know how to live in it or function in it. We don't have the infrastructure built with ice in mind so every overpass is a death trap and we definitely do not know how to DRIVE in it. Our cars aren't suited with the right tires and we don't have all the life saving items that most people up north keep in their trunks of their cars in case of freezing temperatures. So because of ignorance we shut everything down so that people can be safe and encourage people to stay home.

There has been many times in my life when I just didn't know what to do. I didn't know how to respond and I didn't even know what to think about a situation. I had never been to this place before and really was ignorant to my next step. It is in these times that I believe I have been called to my own personal "snow day". A day to stay put, a day to rest, a day to not go anywhere or even be productive...a day to just be quiet. Because Lord knows if I speak it would be the wrong thing and I am pretty sure people will take it the wrong way! Spiritual snow days are a great thing and as Christians we should take more of them. It isn't really that we are ignorant...it is just that we need more Godly wisdom and sometimes in order to get that we have to be still and hear God's voice. 

Sometimes we just need the additional strength and we need the new direction to take a problem or situation head on. We all have the infra-structure inside of us, but depending on our level of maturity, we might not have the experience to actually use it effectively. So its okay to take a break and step back to make sure the right decision is being made...go for it! There is so much wisdom in not answering or responding quickly and taking it to prayer. There is actually power in it. God doesn't want us afraid of taking a step but He fully wants us to be engaged with His heart and in His direction and we can't fully know what He wants if we never take any time to be alone with Him. 

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”
and you make the Most High your dwelling,
no harm will overtake you,
no disaster will come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways;
they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”    Psalms 91:9-16

Psalms 91 is a beautiful representation of where we can go when we are in need of an answer and when we are in trouble. It is one of my favorites. It makes me feel like I can do anything! I feel like I am a warrior carrying a sword when I read this. I start getting this looseness in my neck and I start feeling all tough and finding myself saying "Bring it on!" The really cool thing is that God is the one that is going to fight our battles. We just need to conduct ourselves the way that He has instructed us to. We have to have the faith that He is going to work things out but as the same time we have to do our part. God will give you the words to speak and He will give you the next steps that you need to take...we just need to have the faith to see it get carried out.

Don't wait for a crisis to overtake you...take some INTENTIONAL Snow Days. Take the time to cuddle up and enjoy the sweet presence of Jesus while the world is going crazy around you. You will be refreshed, renewed and ready to take on anything and everything with the right attitude, the right answers and with God on your side. So the next time something hits you blindsided...don't find yourself unprepared for the moment....be ready and on task to take it on!


You Are Graciously Adorned!

❤Jonna
               

*The Truth

There are so many wonderful phrases around to encourage yourself these days. There are an unlimited amount of memes and scripture photos that are so beautiful and I love to share them on social media. I also see a whole lot of them that contain phrases that at first sight are good but as notice them shared and I read the comments; it worries me that people actually believe some of this stuff! One I see a lot is "Follow your heart" or "Be yourself and don't care what anyone else thinks." Another popular phrase being tossed around is "My truth" or "Your truth". I have been seeing that a whole lot lately and in a lot of Christian circles. Although I do not object to using this term; it irks me at the same time. The term "my truth" actually refers to the thoughts and feelings that someone is experiencing and believing to be true at the moment. It is how a person sees something and feels about a situation. That sounds harmless, right?

It is harmless until you start living by your feelings and emotions and letting your "truth for the moment" guide you. Everyone has truths that they live by. Our society unfortunately has watered down what "truth" really means. To some truth is subjective and totally reliant on preference and opinion. Others believe truth is a collective judgment, the product of cultural agreement, and still others flatly deny the concept of truth altogether. 

First of all we must understand that a “truth” that contains even a hint of bias is no truth at all. God’s Word is clear. The moment we give our lives to Jesus, we are new in both spirit and mind. But if we’re to be “transformed by the renewal of [our] mind[s]” we must pay closer attention to our thoughts Romans 12:2. For, thoughts ultimately dictate emotions, and it seems biases grow best in the head of corrupted thoughts and emotions. And we all know that feelings lie! Feelings are not the Christians TRUTH...our truth is the Word of God. It is the one things that never changes and should be the basis of everything that we do, everything that we feel and everything that we believe. It is our TRUTH!

“He who trusts in his own heart is a fool” Proverbs 26:28

“The heart is deceitful above all things" Jeremiah 17:9

When we let our feelings lead the way, we end up making a lot of unwise, ungodly, self-focused decisions—and making a mess of our lives. We also become prone to “picking and choosing” our truth—receiving the things that make us feel good, and rejecting the things that don’t. We find ourselves bitter and becoming disconnected from the things of God. The enemy wants to separate us from the truth that is found in the Word of God. Finding us alone, upset and feeling unloved and undervalued is a really big strategy of the enemy as well. The enemy wants us to be confused about how we feel and what we believe and he has been doing a great job of it.

God cares deeply about each one of your painful past experiences and each one of your current struggles. We must always remember that receiving His truth—not running away from it—is what leads to clarity and victory. The answers and “reasons why” may not always be immediately clear. But if you learn to place His unchanging, eternal truth far above your own feelings and experiences, you will soon begin to experience freedom, faith, and heavenly perspective beyond what you ever thought possible. You have all heard that term "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free!". It isn't a quote from Shakespeare...like some people actually think...it is a scripture found in the Bible found in John 8:32. 

Knowing the TRUTH and feeling your truth are two totally different things. Our truth is grounded in who Jesus is. God's word is the only foundation that is true and just and unchanging. Your feelings if left unchecked can flutter in the wind going here and there and leaving you fragile and vulnerable..and lost. 

When you find yourself hurt, upset and emotional about something here are a few strategies to make sure you are aligned with the truth of the Word of God:

1. What is THE truth about this hurt or situation?
2. What does God's Word say about how to deal with a situation or a feeling like this?
3. Pray about your heart and if there is any direction that you need to take to resolve it. 
4. If you are not able to resolve it on your own go to someone in authority over you and ask them to help you. Friends are great to consult about something only IF they are Godly friends that you consider a mentor. They should pray with you about it and you together regard the Bible in how to resolve it or move forward. 
5. Depending on the hurt it may take time to get over. Protect your heart and be aware of your emotions and feelings. Always have in the forefront of your mind and your day this: "God. Show me your truth today. Lead me and help me to follow your ways and not my mind or emotions. Thank you Lord for bringing me victory. You are the prince of peace over my thoughts today and I will dwell on who you are in my life. Help me today to remember who I am in Christ. I am an overcomer!" 
6. It is helpful to declare scriptures over your life every day and when something starts to enter your mind that isn't lined up with the truth of God then you will be more than able to recognize it and strike it down. 

There isn't anything better than living in harmony with others and in the freedom that only Christ can provide. As you declare small victories in regards to your mind and your emotions you will realize that it isn't that hard at all to be free of offense and hurt and being overwhelmed by your emotions, because God is leading you and He is YOUR TRUTH!

You are Graciously Adorned!

❤Jonna

 

More of Him

That’s why my cup is running over. This is the assigned moment for Him to move into the center, while I slip off to the sidelines.
John 3:29-30, The Message
#YouAreGraciouslyAdorned

*Naughty or Nice

This time of the year you hear a whole lot about being “naughty or nice” and if your going to make it on the good list. It is all fun and games with Santa and it gives us a good laugh. Thankfully though that no matter who you are or what your past looks like...WE ALL are on Jesus’ “WORTHY” list!

Jesus was sent to this Earth and born as a baby, and this shows us that God determined your value already! He saw you as someone who was worth paying the ultimate price for. He gave His Son for YOU and for ME!

So if you don’t find the right gift under the Christmas tree today, just remember that the best gift you could ever ever get... you already have and that is in Jesus. He wrapped himself in human form because you are worthy and you are valuable. All you have to do is unwrap it and receive the gift of salvation. It is the greatest and most wonderful gift of all.

Happy birthday Jesus!


Graciously Adorned
❤Jonna

*Double Crossed

Have you ever felt like you had been double crossed by a friend? I think it happens to the best of us.

Wounds like that cut deep and can take years to overcome. It leaves you shocked and in awe of what even happened and it makes you leary of anyone else close to you. I have been there several times and it never gets easy.

Jesus was double-crossed. He was at the Last Supper with his beloved disciples, shortly after He had washed all of their feet and He quoted these words; "He who shared my bread has turned against me." (John 13:18) Jesus knew that Judas would betray him yet he loved them anyway. Jesus could have pointed at Judas and called him out...he could have made quite the scene but he didn't. His love for people far exceeded his need to be right and justified. WE are called to love people....even the ones who hurt us.

Love is a verb...an action verb...not just a saying. It requires action from us to truly love people and in times of hurt that is really hard to do. Yet Jesus reminds us of our greater purpose, "Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other.” John 13:34-35.

People are watching you and that isn't the only reason to live right...but it is one to think about. Living the way that Jesus taught us will bring joy and perfect peace into your life. If you react emotionally and lash out at others it only makes you feel worse later. It is normal to be upset and to feel crummy when a friend does you wrong but we need to look to the example that Jesus set before us.

Jesus loves with an unconditional love and we can too. My prayer is that you start blessing your enemies and in time forgive them and declare great things over their life. Before you know it you will have released the hold that the hurt had over you and you will be free. Free to love again and free to trust again. Because in life you will be double-crossed not once but multiple times and we have to get out there and be vulnerable again and again in order to live the way that God intended us to live.

My friend you were made for this.

Graciously Adorned
❤ Jonna

*The Underdog

I have always been a sucker for the "under dog". The one that no one expected to make it, the one that no one seems to pay attention to. Even as a child I would forfeit my friends to go after the one that I felt was alone. I would feel guilty to be enjoying myself and to look out and see someone suffering. Why is that? I have thought about that a lot. Parts of it is that I am a middle child and I have this "lets make everyone happy" syndrome and another part of it is that I see people and their potential. I want to help people rise up even if they do not want to. This my friends have gotten me into some trouble in my life.

Present day issue. Let me introduce rescue dog Roxie into the picture. Two years ago I thought it would be a grand idea to add another very difficult and rowdy dog into our household. He was abused and crated most of his life and didn't get food for long stretches of time so she had this orphan mentality that I just knew I could get out of her system. Well...two years later all havoc has been wrecked in our yard, home, family and to my sanity. I cannot control this animal but I feel so sorry for her. I want to love her and I want her to learn to behave and to be a good dog like my Harley. Why can she NOT just learn by example??? I cannot take her anywhere, I cannot let her out of her kennel in front of company and I most certainly cannot let ANYONE go out into the backyard if she is there. So in essence I am a prisoner in my own home because of this dog. She dictates what we do and how we do it. I am humiliated every time I have to bring her to the vet or the groomers BUT still I do not want to give up on her.

I see the potential in this beautiful dog. I see what she can be and I want her to get there. The only thing is that I am finally at a point where I have to step back and say that it just isn't healthy for me or for this dog anymore. This relationship has to take a turn in order for her to grow as well as me not to hate her.

In your life you will have compassion for people and for situations that you just know that you can help. This is what we are supposed to do. The problem is we don't always know the time when it is okay to move on or to refer someone elsewhere. Maybe a problem someone has you just don't have the power to fix it so you need to release them to find help. Maybe you need to let someone go because it isn't healthy for you or your family anymore. That is okay. You tried your best and you have to be honest and admit that it isn't failure...it is progress. We are not going to be able to FIX everyone that we encounter and sometimes we will just be a small part of what people experience in their lives. That is okay...just make that experience the BEST you can.

So saying all of this I am trying to let everyone know that I am going to move on with Roxie. I found new place for her. I am sad to say but yet being real to let everyone that she went to a Airedale Rescue Group. I like to think that I didn't "give up" on her but I realized that what Roxie really needed was professional help and that is what I found for her. I think about her and of course I miss her but I also rest in the fact that she is living with someone that loves her breed and most importantly understands and can help her with her issues.

Loving the underdog can be painful and you will not always see the transformation before your eyes. But let me encourage each of you to continue to search for people who need help and never underestimate what a kind word or a little help will do for someone. Your little bit just might be just what someone needs to get back on the right track to a happy and healthy life.

"In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’"  Acts 20:35 ESV

"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed."    Proverbs 19:17 

"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’"  Matthew 25:35-40

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."  Galatians 6:2

You are Graciously Adorned
❤ Jonna