The Harvest

Book 3 in the Wildrose inspirational book series is finished and the edits are dribbling back to me inscribed with those predictable little red marks and those terse little notations. My editor, Adele, sends a few at a time or I would be overwhelmed.

I don’t like getting red marks from God either, but I’ve had my share. I’m glad He didn’t plunk the whole manuscript of my life down in front of me at once with all the corrections to make. That would have been overwhelming to say the least. The “edits” of my life are worked on one page at a time and the Author of Faith works with me to fix things.

I am eager and waiting for a harvest from Sword of the Wild Rose. What will it be? Fame? Fortune? I doubt it will be either of those. But there will be a harvest— for I have planted and something will grow. God grant that this harvest will bring honor and glory to His name and inspire some weary heart along life’s journey.

HARVEST TIME

"For the time has come for thee to reap,
For the harvest of the earth is ripe."

Rev. 14:15

Often, God chooses the simple things in nature, the earthy, mundane things of our lives to help us see a greater truth. The things familiar, often repeated in the cycle of life, are the things He chose to declare Himself, to proclaim His love and mercy to all who will receive it. No wonder the shepherd boy wrote in his psalm, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork." Harvest time is one of those beautiful truths that brings the heart of His message to mankind into a reality that is easily understood. Have you thought about the harvest lately?

Did you know that God is also a gatherer... a harvester and gleaner of precious souls? He knows when the fruit of the earth is ripe and He walks the fields in search of the present harvest. He sends the rain, the sun, and a faithful worker to till the ground. Because you are precious to Him, He will patiently wait. He is looking for you in the fields of this world. Have you been gathered into His great storehouse? Are you ready for His coming?

THE ARTIST

When autumn colors cloak the earth
From tree to golden rod,
I find no painter to compare
With the artistry of God!

Ruth Ellinger© 2009 all right reserved

God is Still in Control

God is Still in Control

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. PHIL. 4:6 NKJV

Remembering that God is in control is sometimes forgotten when everything around us seems to be spinning out of control. As a ministry wife, We are often alarmed by the things we hear circulating among the flock. We are troubled by circumstances we cannot control, by war and terrorism, by shocking media reports, and of course, there is our own personal dilemmas and difficulties. Worry and unrest creep stealthily into our lives to steal our joy and discourage our spirits.

Finding a solution to our problems often becomes the main focus of our daily life. When this happens, we take our eyes off Jesus, the One who is waiting to help us. Seek the Lord early when trouble arises. Take your cares and concerns to God who is able to resolve the most difficult situation. When we remember that God is in control of all that touches our lives, calm and quiet of spirit are restored and our focus returns to Him.

The psalmist says, Who is this King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty in battle. Focus on the “King,” where all things large and small are under His authority. Do not be anxious about anything. Jesus says, Come unto me…and I will give you rest. ♦

©2009ruthellinger all rights reserved

"Taking" Time

When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?

Job 34:29

There are times when we need to rest from the hectic pace of life with its schedules, deadlines, and demands. We must simplify our life, take time to muse and reflect, to consider and listen. Just “take the time.” Schedule some time for a soul cleansing. Turn off the computer, the radio, the CD’s and TV’s. Quiet every voice and wash your mind of the internal and external noises of life.

If we do not find this quiet place in our life, we will miss the beauty and peace that comes from being alone with God, of listening for His voice and sharing moments with Him throughout the day. Discover the joy of spending quiet time with the King.

We are surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation and He delights in sharing this beauty with us. Go outdoors with Him, enjoy a sunset, marvel at the starry heavens together, wonder at the beauty of a flower, the song of a bird, and the mysteries of nature. Take the time. Just do it.

In those quiet moments with God, you will find fresh inspiration, true contentment, and renewed strength and courage to do your work with joy and gladness. Your confidence in Him will be strengthened, and your heart and soul will be revived and cleansed.♦

©2009ruthellinger all rights reserved