Joy and Strength (Christian life and music)

Social media.  It is the best of times, it is the worst of times. God can and does use it as a blessing in our lives.  But we know that it has also become a source of distraction and isolation for our society, too. When we scroll through others' lives (at least only the parts they allow us to see), and we want to accomplish great things that God has put in our hearts, the temptation is to try and look like or do what others are doing in the same way. Only problem with that is that God is the ultimate Creator.  He is full of new, creative ways and ideas for each of us. Do we dare be different?  Do we dare step out of the box? If God tells us to, then yes! To be open to God's plans for us we need to: 1. Trust Him wholeheartedly. 2. Believe He knows what He is doing 3. Partner with Him in all we do 4. Expect ridicule and naysayers because "it's never been done like that before" 5. Listen to Him daily 6. Step out in faith to whatever He tells us to do 7. Not care what

Are you a member of any rewards programs?  I am.  It's fun to receive bonuses and offers simply for being a good customer.  You know the ones I mean, a discount offer, something for free, and other special perks.  Who doesn't enjoy these rewards? But did you know that Jesus offers us eternal rewards that never spoil, fade, or perish?  I want in on that program!  Of course, it is not a program at all.  But there are definitely awesome rewards.  But you need patience to wait for them, and lots of faith to know that they are waiting for you, because they won't be revealed this side of heaven.   Some of the rewards we can look forward to: Loving our enemies.  Cha-ching! Forgiving those who hurt us.  Cha-ching! Obeying God no matter what. Cha-ching! Seeking Jesus daily.  Cha-ching! Trusting God more than self.  Cha-ching! Believing in God's goodness during the hard times.  Cha-ching! Knowing God.  Cha-ching! Choosing faith over fear.  Cha-ching! Winning spiritual battles in

The Lord has been telling me for a while now to practice my songs.  And as much as I am in the habit of obeying the Lord no matter what - here comes my confession - I have not done as He said. Why? I figure, why bother?  Who's going to hear them anyway?  I feel like Demi Lovato from her song "Anyone." "I feel stupid when I sing Nobody's listening to me Nobody's listening" But I know that God is listening.  Is that enough for me?  Do I need an audience?  Can't I just sing for the joy of singing?  Especially songs that came from my heart, soul, and spirit? I've been through so much in the past - many negative experiences that have left their mark on me.  That is not an excuse.  Just how it is.  I really have to muster up the energy to sit down at the keyboard and sing any more.   As a child, I would sit at the piano for hours and just sing and play.  What fun I had!   Of course, that was eons ago, and in between then and now, well, life happened. I