Devotions

Mother's Day 2024

By: Gayle Dansby

“For she is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come” Proverbs 31:25.

Yes, the Proverbs 31 woman. Most of us are familiar with her story and her accomplishments and have varying degrees of reaction to the kind of woman we are based on that chapter. But let’s be honest, MOST days we’re not like that. Probably the attribute we share the most with her is the business of life (insert an “Amen” here). Sometimes I prefer to think of her as a “suggestion” and not necessarily an “example” to aspire to. I feel better about my own shortcomings that way. 😊

We often hear that the act of comparison is the thief that steals our joy. We are complex, multi-faceted, intriguing, passionate, ever-changing, challenging, each of us one of a kind, created in the image of Christ, and loved by our Creator! Our personalities and who we are as women are also so uniquely different, just as God intended. I mean, can you even imaging the stuff that WOULDN’T get done if we all had the same gifts, the same strengths, the same interests, the same creativity, the same personalities? Trainwreck, ladies…it would be a trainwreck. Nope, we’re all different, just like spoons. Yep, spoons. 

Spoons are just that; spoons. But there are different types of spoons for different uses yet one is no more important than another, but each unique to its specific use when needed. Ever heard of a Welsh Love Spoon? It’s a tradition that is dated as far back as the late 1600’s. Spoons were hand carved out of wood and given to someone as a token of love and devotion. They were considered very special and each very unique. The oldest surviving Welsh spoon currently in a museum is believed to be from around the year 1667. 

Today we use spoons that are more practical, but each serve a purpose. Anyone use a wooden spoon? They’re preferred for sourdough bread making and great to use in general because they are non-conductive; they won’t heat up in your hand. They also don’t scratch non-stick surfaces. 

How about a spaghetti spoon?  While it might look like any other pronged cooking spoon, it usually has a large hole in the middle of it. According to Barilla, an Italian pasta manufacturer, the hole in the spoon is precisely this size to help cooks measure one serving size.  

How many slotted spoons do you own? You know how important those slots are when you’re trying to scoop food without scooping up a bunch of unwanted liquid. But if you want the liquid with the food then you’re most likely grabbing a ladle type of spoon. (Gotta scoop up that yummy broth. 😊)   

We probably aren’t using Welsh love spoons in our kitchens anymore but I bet we each have a drawer full of different spoons. You might even have a favorite spoon, or maybe you collect spoons. Maybe you’re the type that even has fancy spoons for company. And at some point, we’ve all used plastic spoons. (If you’ve ever visited the dessert table at LBBC’s fellowship lunches, you’ve used a LOT of plastic spoons!) But the point here ladies, is that while we are all different, we all have a purpose. Our differences together are not our weakness, but our strength.    

If you have a personal relationship with Jesus then those differences are even more important. That means that you have a unique place in His church, the church family and for His service. I go back to the question of what wouldn’t get done if we were all the same. Look at all the different roles that our LBBC ladies fill. Some of those rolls are shared amongst a few as needed and some are specific for a time. But each is equally important to maintain the work of His church. While we are all “spoons” we are not the same kind of “spoon.”  And like the Welsh love spoons, we are each lovingly hand crafted by our Creator. 

Psalms 139:14 says, “I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful. I know that full well.“ 

“Thank you, Father, for the uniqueness with which I was created.  I pray that I appreciate who I am in You and that I will be a willing vessel in fulfilling the roll that You have for me in my life, my family, my job, and my church.”

January 11, 2024

By: Gayle Dansby

We’re almost two weeks into a brand new year and that’s just about enough time for people to start giving up on those pesky New Year’s resolutions. We seem to always hear the usuals; go to the gym, start a new diet, read the bible every day, spruce up our prayer life...the list goes on and on. I can’t even count how many I never followed through on. In fact, it’s a safe bet to say that I successfully executed zero of my resolutions over the years and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one sporting that dismal track record. I’ve often wondered why it’s so hard for us to do. Why can’t we just focus on what we think we should be doing better, do it and feel good about our accomplishment and determination? But somehow my lack of follow through with whatever the goal is, leaves me feeling icky and like a failure. Because of that I don’t put those expectations on myself anymore. It’s too much stress. But the problem is that I ALWAYS recognize the need to improve something in my life. I don’t think the answer is to not try though.  

I know I’m never 100% in the place where God intends for me to be. There’s always something in my life that is not as it should be and every day, I fall short of His expectations for me. And I think that knowledge of our own shortcomings is what makes us think that we need to make resolutions. It’s our own attempt to better ourselves in the areas that we see a need for improvement. I don’t know about you, but every time I try to take situations on by myself, that’s usually my first step to failure. I’ve completely left God out of the equation of my life circumstances, yet again. Apparently, I still haven’t learned. So, resolutions aren’t for me anymore but the need for improvement and change remains the same. What a conundrum, indeed. 

One word. That’s my ‘resolution.” I chose to pick one single word to focus on this year. The word will be different for everyone and will be largely dependent on what each of us face this year. I took some time to pray about my word. I needed direction from God and let’s be honest, something I could be somewhat successful at. I just wanted one word that God could bring back to the forefront of my memory, something to pull me away from whatever it is and bring my focus back to Him. And in typical God fashion, He picked a word that has always been so relevant in my life and so incredibly difficult at the same time.  He knew this one single word has come so easily for me and has brought me so much joy and peace, but lately it has broken me down on a visceral level and has almost felt like it has betrayed me. But I really feel like He intends to use this word to grow me, to bring me closer to Him, to help pull my focus, and other times just give me some peace. It may seem simple, maybe even too simple, but God doesn’t need fireworks, parting of the seas, a burning bush, or a thundering voice to do something extraordinary in our lives.  Sometimes a quiet simplicity can bring us the most growth. 

I went back and forth about whether I should share my word, but I don’t think I will, at least not right now. My prayer for you is that you will ask God for your word for 2024. I pray that when God reminds you of your word that you will find growth, peace, confidence, comfort, direction or whatever it is He wants you to know, feel, do, realize in that moment. I like to think of it as an impromptu conversation with God, one that’s specific to He and I and perfect in His timing for my need at that moment. I don’t think that the growth that I need is found in failed attempts at resolutions. My growth as a person, mother, wife, Nana, friend, athlete, pastor’s wife, Child of God will come in those quiet conversations with the God who loves me more than I can comprehend. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Every time I think of my word I pray that I will use that opportunity to draw nearer to Him. The closer I am to Him, the more He changes me into the person He intends for me to be. Isn’t that the ultimate resolution? To be more like Him? To be more centered in Him? To live a life that that shows Him more and more to a broken world?  I have my word for 2024, my one single word and I’m looking forward to seeing how God uses it to help me grow this year. 

“Thank you for the passing of another year as I look ahead to a new year with new possibilities. Lord, I pray that I can get out of my own way long enough to give You the opportunities to transform my life to be exactly what You intend it to be. Every time I think about (insert your word here) may I take the time to focus on You, listen to You, ask for Your direction or to plead for Your comfort. In Jesus’ Name.”    

November 29, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

My husband and I have always had pets. A few cats but mostly dogs and we currently have 2 dogs; Bella and Braxton. Our yard is fenced in and for the most part they go in and out freely. Bella really enjoys laying in the sun and she’ll stay out there for hours. I had to be somewhere and was just about ready to leave when I remembered she was still outside. I went out on the porch and there she was, laying in the yard as usual. When the sun hits her jet black coat it shines and I remember thinking how pretty she looked even though she’s almost 12 years old and getting grey.  I lovingly called her “up.” (That’s our word to come up on the porch or in the house.) She ignored me, but that’s not unusual when she’s enjoying her outside time. So I called her again…and again. My annoyance was beginning to fester. “Why does she do this to me every time?” Now the insistence in my voice is a little more palpable, but does she care? Nope. Was I intimidating? Also, nope. This girl just laid there, turned and looked at me and did not move. She cared nothing about the anger that was now flaring in my tone. At this point I sound like a lunatic, out there yelling, “Bella! Get UP!” For a quick moment I wonder what the neighbors might think. But the next moment I also realize that they’re more than likely used to it. This is my life, standing on the porch, yelling at my dog who cares not one bit that I have somewhere to be. She will not listen; not until she’s decided she’s ready. If you happen to be a parent, a spouse or a pet owner then chances are you’ve thought the same thing and can relate to my angst. 

I bet God has said the same thing about me. From the beginning of time, He has spoken to His people and from the beginning of our existence, we have had a habit of not wanting to listen. But let’s be honest, it’s disobedience, plain and simple. In other words, sin. The scripture tells of countless people who chose not to listen to God’s voice with disobedience and suffered dire consequences. Adam and Eve were the first and we often use the example of Jonah and the whale to teach our children that we are supposed to listen to God and what happens when we don’t. Jeremiah 16:2(NLT) “And you are even worse than your ancestors! You stubbornly follow your own evil desires and refuse to listen to me.”  We have different justifications at different times in our lives for why we chose not to listen. Maybe we think our plan is better, or easier, or makes more sense. Or maybe it’s not even a conscience choice anymore. Maybe we’ve blocked God’s voice for so long that it’s become muted to us. Or scarier still, we can’t hear Him because of all the unconfessed sin that we’ve allowed to take root in our life. No matter what the reasons, it’s never justified, it’s always disobedience and comes with consequences that we’re not prepared to face. And yet, God continues to stand on the porch, yelling our name in an effort get our attention to bring us back to a place of restoration through repentance. And restored is such an amazing place to be. Praise God for His love for us and His ability to not give up! I may face consequences for my decision to not listen and I will probably face some growing pains in the process but Deuteronomy 30:3(NAS)says, “…then the Lord your God will restore you from captivity, and have compassion on you, and will gather you again from all the peoples where the Lord your God has scattered you.”

“Father, forgive me for not listening to Your voice and thank you for never leaving me. I tried this on my own and failed. Please restore to me the joy of my salvation. In Your perfect Name, Amen.” 

November 15, 2023 

By: Gayle Dansby

My husband grew up with parents who were big Elvis fans, and they loved going to Elvis conventions and watch impersonators, etc. My mother was also a fan (and shared his birthday), but not to the extent that Gary’s family was. So after we got married I got recruited into the conventions and activities and I’m not embarrassed to say that I didn’t always enjoy it, but I participated anyway because it brought them so much joy. While the extracurricular activities weren’t something I was a fan of what I was a fan of is some of his music. He was hot stuff back in the day, but he also had a special way of delivering a message through his songs. One of those songs is I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You. It’s a beautiful ballad written by a star-crossed lover. 

One of the verses sung is: 

“… Take my hand

Take my whole life, too

For I can't help falling in love with you.”

There is deep love written in these words and if you’ve ever loved someone deeply and passionately, this will resonate with you. Dare I say, we can “feel” the passion these words hold. For most of us the first thing that may come to memory was that feeling of falling in love with your spouse or the first time you saw and held your child, but why isn’t our first thought of Jesus? Maybe yours is, but honestly, it wasn’t mine and it hurts me to admit that. These are EXACTLY the words we should be singing to our Heavenly Father. There are so many ways this is applicable to the life of a believer. Imagine standing in front of Him in deep conviction and repentance and saying this at the moment of our salivation; earnestly feeling a Holy love for the Savior and asking Him to take our whole life for His purpose and glory! Psalm 116:1(NIV) “I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy.” There’s vulnerability and humility when we cry out to surrender a life that brings anguish and pain in exchange for a life in Christ that offers us grace and forgiveness. How can we not fall in love with the God who does that for us; for a Savior who loves us so much that He gave His life for us on the cross? 

It's easy to understand the kind of passion that leads us to accept the gift of salvation. But then where does that passion and love for God go? I think if you are truly saved, then you always love God; but we don’t always LIVE like we love Him. Life takes over; jobs, kids, responsibility, finances, hurt, loss, joy whatever it may be, it happens. We may still be faithful in our church attendance, bible study and prayer life, but do we still have that fire for Christ? Are we taking up our cross daily while asking Him to take our hand and lead. Are we surrendering every day to Him? Are we living our life ‘in love with Jesus’ or have we let other things trickle in? Romans 12:1(NIV) Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Sometimes when I’m going through a particularly hard time with something I will assign myself a “mantra” of sorts. It’s a phrase I’ll make myself say over and over until my mind quiets down and I can turn my focus back to Jesus and not feel so unbelievably overwhelmed. I’ve used phrases like “Please Jesus, take this from me and bring my thoughts back to You,” or “I can’t handle this today so I am laying this at Your feet because You go before me,” phrases along those lines. The problem doesn’t go away obviously, but it allows me to breathe and I remind myself that I’m not God and I can’t deal with whatever it is, on my own. I think having “Take my hand, Lord and my whole life because You love me and I love You” is a good mantra too. It shouldn’t replace prayer, but it’s a nice, quick reminder during the day to focus on the only one who is truly worthy to lead my life and order my steps.  

Lord, thank you for loving me unconditionally. Forgive me for not putting You first today. I pray that You will continue to lead me as I surrender every day to You and when I don’t I pray that you will remind me who’s I am and bring my thoughts back to You. Always and Amen” 

November 8, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

Tonight, I had to take an online test for a job I had applied for. The application process was pretty involved but I felt good about it when I hit the “submit” button; dare I say, even confident. When I got the email saying that they liked my application and wanted me to proceed with the process, my confidence was boosted even further. So, after dinner I got everything cleaned up and put away, made myself a cup of decaf coffee (cause, sleep!) in my Snoopy fall themed cup, grabbed my laptop and headphones and got situated on the couch, confidence still intact. I opened the email with the link and started reading the directions. “Ok, I can probably do this,” was my thought. Still fairly confident, I kept reading. The more I read, the more I could feel my confidence very slowly evaporate. Not anything noticeable, just ever so slightly. Barely a trickle really. The “test” was in three parts. Ok, no biggie. Then I read that each test is TIMED. Timed? Come on, really?? I immediately feel my breath catch. I don’t do well under pressure and timed is definitely pressure! “Ok, it’s fine. I’m fine. Just start and don’t pay attention to the timer….” Test 1 was Computer Literacy and Internet Knowledge and while I didn’t get all the questions correct, I think I’m still in the running. Test 2 was an Aptitude Assessment. I’m not gonna lie, no clue what that is, but here goes. Then that dreaded timer starts. It’s staring me down, daring my confidence (what was left, anyway). It clicked and kept clicking; faster than should have been possible. A few questions in and the panic starts to set in. It’s math. Dear sweet baby Jesus, no. I feel like I’m having flashbacks to high school then I realize that I barely remember math in high school because I’m 54!!!! More questions…more math….more panic…less confidence…it just kept going, just liked that stupid timer. It’s mocking me at this point, I’m absolutely sure of it. Now it’s a full blown 911 situation. I’m just speedily pretending to do math that I don’t know how to do while checking what I guess might be the right answer and the whole time….that timer is clicking down. I’m second guessing every single question and answer and then just like that; time is up! UGH. What just happened? Every bit of confidence I started with has officially left the building. Gone, like it never even existed. I’m just sitting there, staring at the computer wondering what just happened. I need Tylenol for this stress headache, STAT. I didn’t even want to attempt test 3, but there was literally nothing to lose at this point. So, carry on, I must and I did. 

I don’t have high hopes at this point, but I didn’t lose anything by trying. I was reminded of conversations that I had with Sarah and Gary just this afternoon. I made the statement to them that God usually shows up in situations and moves us around in a way that we never saw for ourselves. Sometimes in things that seem so impossible to have happened the way they did, God did it. He has a wonderful and exciting way of bringing clarity to our lives when it seems clouded by doubt and uncertainty. He is our clarity. Does that mean that I passed the math portion of the test and they’re going to offer me the job? Well, God is a God of miracles, so time will tell. Does that mean that one of my articles or devotions will get published and I’ll “make it big?” Not necessarily. But either way I’m confident God is working. I may not know where or how, but I don’t need to. He reveals things when we’re ready and only He knows when that is. Don’t get me wrong, my confidence gets easily shaken and I know He has to be up there, shaking His head at me again when I start complaining and getting scared. I like a plan. And many times in my life I start out super confident headed down the road I’m on and just like with that test, I lose it, little by little until it seems to never have existed. But no matter the circumstance, God is still working. Maybe He just has to move me a bit to the left or right until He finally has me in the perfect spot to be where He wants me. Sometimes that whole “free will” thing works against me when I start getting ahead of God by thinking I have my life figured out. It could be this job it could be getting published or absolutely none of it. I could be completely off track. Let’s be honest though, waiting for a period to be put at the end of where we have a question mark is hard. Either way, when it’s time for God to answer some of these questions for me, He’ll be the one to put the period, not me. Faith is waiting during that time when it’s hard, unknown or even hurts. Proverbs 3:26 (NET) says,” for the Lord will be the source of your confidence, and He will guard your foot from being caught in a trap.” I definitely don’t have any confidence in that stupid test, but I have confidence that if God wants this for me at this time, it will be done. If not, I will move on, even if it’s kicking and screaming. 

“Lord, let me remember to put my confidence in You and Your promises because You love me. Help me accept an answer of “no” or “wait” as graciously as I accept a “yes” from You. And for all things, thank You. In Jesus name, Amen.” 

November 1, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

 It’s November and with Thanksgiving coming we begin to hear the words “thankfulness” and “gratitude” more and more. It’s not a bad thing and I think we should all be reminded to have gratitude for God’s blessings. But if we’re being honest, as believers we sometimes defer to the “buzz” phrases and at this time of the year those are the two most prolific. We have so much to be thankful for and no doubt, the Lord’s blessings abound but my cup doesn’t always “runeth” over with gratitude. And most of the reason for that is because I find myself getting bogged down in the daily, mundane tasks and responsibilities that fill my day with stress and steal my joy, and with a schedule that’s too busy for me to even take a breath. Then there’s the added activities of planning for the holidays while making myself the sole person responsible for everyone else’s joy. We do it to ourselves and it’s a circumstance of our own making. Eventually, we realize what we’ve done and that we’ve silently placed God in the backseat and wondered why we feel overwhelmed. Then the guilt sets in, the repentance takes place THEN the gratitude comes. (I can’t be the only one this happens too, right?) It’s then, when we’re finally quiet, that God whispers, “Just slow down. You’re losing sight again, Gayle. Reign in the crazy a bit.” (Maybe He skips the last part with you, but it’s completely applicable for me.) Then I breathe a sigh of relief, realize what I’ve done, where I’m at, WHO’S I am and just reply with, “I’m sorry, Lord. You’re right, again, but You knew that already. I’m sorry and thank you.” And everything is as it should be because my focus is where it should be. 1 Peter 5:6-7(NET) says, “And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under His mighty hand by casting all your cares on Him because He cares for you.” 

Gratitude isn’t always easy. And it’s not because of a lack of faith or trust, it’s just because sometimes things are just really, really hard. Finding gratitude in the midst of mourning the loss of someone you love, going through a divorce or estranged from family, having such financial hardships that you don’t know how you’ll eat a Thanksgiving dinner, get a few gifts for your children or so many other scenarios that people go through, can be challenging. Life ebbs and flows and it’s easy, so easy to lose sight of anything to be thankful for when things look so bleak. I get it; I’ve been there. But God is still there and He’s the only one that can pull me from my misery back into the shelter of His grace. That’s where I find purpose, love and comfort. He cares for me, for us, just as 1 Peter 5:6-7 says. The Lord is not only my Savior, but He is my friend; James 2:23(NET) “…Abraham believed God…and he was called God’s friend.” Even when I don’t feel gratitude, I know the Creator of the world LOVES me and calls me His FRIEND, which makes me forever grateful and thankful. Could that be all gratitude needs to be? Maybe we should take the pressure off of ourselves this holiday season when we don’t feel grateful for everything in our lives and just be grateful for the Lord, who He is and the sacrifice that was given. Maybe if we could do that, the gratitude for all His blessings would naturally flow from there. If I can only utter a few words to my Savior at the end of my life, let it be “Thank you,” and let those be the first words I shout with joy as I wake up in His presence. 

“Father, thank you; today and always. I pray that I will continually be aware of Your love for me. I pray that on days I’m happy, my thoughts are of You and thanksgiving flows from my praise. I pray that on days I can’t speak, that my thoughts be of You. I pray for those that are hurting or suffering. I pray for them to have the strength to call on You. I ask Your forgiveness for the things I’ve taken for granted. May Your praise forever flow from my mouth. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.”  

October 25, 2023

By: Gayle Dansby

I was driving to work this week and it was a pretty typical morning but for the fact that we had a dense fog advisory. The early morning sky was a smoky grey and seemed to be trying to envelop the road I was headed down. I always preferred taking the long backroads. I never minded the quietness and solitude of my drive. It aways seemed to give me the few extra minutes I needed to wake up with my trusted cup of coffee and my thoughts. 

This particular morning my coffee seemed even more necessary since the dreariness of the morning fog seemed to be squashing any need for me to be productive with my day. My eye caught a shadow on the side of the road that seemed to be creeping toward me out of the mist. As I drove closer I could tell it was a man, in what appeared to be dress slacks and a button up shirt. This was a pretty deserted road without a lot of traffic and seeing the occasional  runner or cyclist was pretty common for that very reason, but seeing a man walking on the side of the road ready for office work was something I definitely hadn’t witnessed before.  It was odd and my first thought as I chuckled to myself was that the poor guy probably broke down somewhere on his way to work. 

As the excitement of the shadow figure subsided my thoughts began to pick up. He sure did look completely out of place, alone on this road. There’s no way you wouldn’t have noticed him. He didn’t “belong.” A runner or cyclist, sure; but not this poor guy who clearly didn’t look like he set out that morning to take a hike. A somber question hit me. As a Christian, do I stand out or would I fade in with the world and go unnoticed? Do I stand out for Christ for the right reasons or have I done a disservice to Him by standing out in the wrong way while professing my faith?  If I had to be honest, the answer is yes. Yes, to all of it; the good and the bad.  

Romans 12:2 (NIV) says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will”.  The scripture tells us to not conform but to be transformed. There have been times in my life when I have been bold in my faith, comfortable enough to not care what the world thought of me. My only thought was to be the person of faith that God wanted me to be and stand unapologetically. I’ve stood out. And then there were times when I hid in the shadows, afraid to speak, purposely deciding to not stand out. I’ve pushed God’s voice deeper still so that I could hide with the least amount of guilt possible. And I have found myself very comfortable there, in that dark place on anonymity. A place where nothing is required of me. But I have learned that in that space of anonymity, pushing God away and covering my ears, there is no peace. There is no light.  The solace that I was seeking becomes stark emptiness. 

But God. But GOD! James 2:23 (NIV) says of Abraham, “’Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.” As a born again, washed in the blood, believer in Jesus, He is not only my Redeemer, but my friend! At the thought of God’s great Name, and what He’s done for me, the shadow of quietness isn’t where I can ever stay. I am made to stand out for Him! That is our purpose. Psalm 96:3 (NIV) says, “Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.” We were never meant to blend in with the world. Romans 1:16 (NIV), “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” We were always meant to stand out and declare the Gospel and the love of Jesus. We don’t do it because of who we are, but because of who He is. 

I don’t want to be someone who professes Christ but barely gets recognized because I’m either too worldly or I’m hiding. No friend, my prayer is that when the world looks at me, they see someone who has been changed, someone who looks a little out of place, someone willing to stand out and share the perfect love of the Savior of the world!   

Coming Soon

January 11, 2024

By: Gayle Dansby

We’re almost two weeks into a brand new year and that’s just about enough time for people to start giving up on those pesky New Year’s resolutions. We seem to always hear the usuals; go to the gym, start a new diet, read the bible every day, spruce up our prayer life...the list goes on and on. I can’t even count how many I never followed through on. In fact, it’s a safe bet to say that I successfully executed zero of my resolutions over the years and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one sporting that dismal track record. I’ve often wondered why it’s so hard for us to do. Why can’t we just focus on what we think we should be doing better, do it and feel good about our accomplishment and determination? But somehow my lack of follow through with whatever the goal is, leaves me feeling icky and like a failure. Because of that I don’t put those expectations on myself anymore. It’s too much stress. But the problem is that I ALWAYS recognize the need to improve something in my life. I don’t think the answer is to not try though.  

I know I’m never 100% in the place where God intends for me to be. There’s always something in my life that is not as it should be and every day, I fall short of His expectations for me. And I think that knowledge of our own shortcomings is what makes us think that we need to make resolutions. It’s our own attempt to better ourselves in the areas that we see a need for improvement. I don’t know about you, but every time I try to take situations on by myself, that’s usually my first step to failure. I’ve completely left God out of the equation of my life circumstances, yet again. Apparently, I still haven’t learned. So, resolutions aren’t for me anymore but the need for improvement and change remains the same. What a conundrum, indeed. 

One word. That’s my ‘resolution.” I chose to pick one single word to focus on this year. The word will be different for everyone and will be largely dependent on what each of us face this year. I took some time to pray about my word. I needed direction from God and let’s be honest, something I could be somewhat successful at. I just wanted one word that God could bring back to the forefront of my memory, something to pull me away from whatever it is and bring my focus back to Him. And in typical God fashion, He picked a word that has always been so relevant in my life and so incredibly difficult at the same time.  He knew this one single word has come so easily for me and has brought me so much joy and peace, but lately it has broken me down on a visceral level and has almost felt like it has betrayed me. But I really feel like He intends to use this word to grow me, to bring me closer to Him, to help pull my focus, and other times just give me some peace. It may seem simple, maybe even too simple, but God doesn’t need fireworks, parting of the seas, a burning bush, or a thundering voice to do something extraordinary in our lives.  Sometimes a quiet simplicity can bring us the most growth. 

I went back and forth about whether I should share my word, but I don’t think I will, at least not right now. My prayer for you is that you will ask God for your word for 2024. I pray that when God reminds you of your word that you will find growth, peace, confidence, comfort, direction or whatever it is He wants you to know, feel, do, realize in that moment. I like to think of it as an impromptu conversation with God, one that’s specific to He and I and perfect in His timing for my need at that moment. I don’t think that the growth that I need is found in failed attempts at resolutions. My growth as a person, mother, wife, Nana, friend, athlete, pastor’s wife, Child of God will come in those quiet conversations with the God who loves me more than I can comprehend. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Every time I think of my word I pray that I will use that opportunity to draw nearer to Him. The closer I am to Him, the more He changes me into the person He intends for me to be. Isn’t that the ultimate resolution? To be more like Him? To be more centered in Him? To live a life that that shows Him more and more to a broken world?  I have my word for 2024, my one single word and I’m looking forward to seeing how God uses it to help me grow this year. 

“Thank you for the passing of another year as I look ahead to a new year with new possibilities. Lord, I pray that I can get out of my own way long enough to give You the opportunities to transform my life to be exactly what You intend it to be. Every time I think about (insert your word here) may I take the time to focus on You, listen to You, ask for Your direction or to plead for Your comfort. In Jesus’ Name.”    

November 29, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

My husband and I have always had pets. A few cats but mostly dogs and we currently have 2 dogs; Bella and Braxton. Our yard is fenced in and for the most part they go in and out freely. Bella really enjoys laying in the sun and she’ll stay out there for hours. I had to be somewhere and was just about ready to leave when I remembered she was still outside. I went out on the porch and there she was, laying in the yard as usual. When the sun hits her jet black coat it shines and I remember thinking how pretty she looked even though she’s almost 12 years old and getting grey.  I lovingly called her “up.” (That’s our word to come up on the porch or in the house.) She ignored me, but that’s not unusual when she’s enjoying her outside time. So I called her again…and again. My annoyance was beginning to fester. “Why does she do this to me every time?” Now the insistence in my voice is a little more palpable, but does she care? Nope. Was I intimidating? Also, nope. This girl just laid there, turned and looked at me and did not move. She cared nothing about the anger that was now flaring in my tone. At this point I sound like a lunatic, out there yelling, “Bella! Get UP!” For a quick moment I wonder what the neighbors might think. But the next moment I also realize that they’re more than likely used to it. This is my life, standing on the porch, yelling at my dog who cares not one bit that I have somewhere to be. She will not listen; not until she’s decided she’s ready. If you happen to be a parent, a spouse or a pet owner then chances are you’ve thought the same thing and can relate to my angst. 

I bet God has said the same thing about me. From the beginning of time, He has spoken to His people and from the beginning of our existence, we have had a habit of not wanting to listen. But let’s be honest, it’s disobedience, plain and simple. In other words, sin. The scripture tells of countless people who chose not to listen to God’s voice with disobedience and suffered dire consequences. Adam and Eve were the first and we often use the example of Jonah and the whale to teach our children that we are supposed to listen to God and what happens when we don’t. Jeremiah 16:2(NLT) “And you are even worse than your ancestors! You stubbornly follow your own evil desires and refuse to listen to me.”  We have different justifications at different times in our lives for why we chose not to listen. Maybe we think our plan is better, or easier, or makes more sense. Or maybe it’s not even a conscience choice anymore. Maybe we’ve blocked God’s voice for so long that it’s become muted to us. Or scarier still, we can’t hear Him because of all the unconfessed sin that we’ve allowed to take root in our life. No matter what the reasons, it’s never justified, it’s always disobedience and comes with consequences that we’re not prepared to face. And yet, God continues to stand on the porch, yelling our name in an effort get our attention to bring us back to a place of restoration through repentance. And restored is such an amazing place to be. Praise God for His love for us and His ability to not give up! I may face consequences for my decision to not listen and I will probably face some growing pains in the process but Deuteronomy 30:3(NAS)says, “…then the Lord your God will restore you from captivity, and have compassion on you, and will gather you again from all the peoples where the Lord your God has scattered you.”

“Father, forgive me for not listening to Your voice and thank you for never leaving me. I tried this on my own and failed. Please restore to me the joy of my salvation. In Your perfect Name, Amen.” 

November 15, 2023 

By: Gayle Dansby

My husband grew up with parents who were big Elvis fans, and they loved going to Elvis conventions and watch impersonators, etc. My mother was also a fan (and shared his birthday), but not to the extent that Gary’s family was. So after we got married I got recruited into the conventions and activities and I’m not embarrassed to say that I didn’t always enjoy it, but I participated anyway because it brought them so much joy. While the extracurricular activities weren’t something I was a fan of what I was a fan of is some of his music. He was hot stuff back in the day, but he also had a special way of delivering a message through his songs. One of those songs is I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You. It’s a beautiful ballad written by a star-crossed lover. 

One of the verses sung is: 

“… Take my hand

Take my whole life, too

For I can't help falling in love with you.”

There is deep love written in these words and if you’ve ever loved someone deeply and passionately, this will resonate with you. Dare I say, we can “feel” the passion these words hold. For most of us the first thing that may come to memory was that feeling of falling in love with your spouse or the first time you saw and held your child, but why isn’t our first thought of Jesus? Maybe yours is, but honestly, it wasn’t mine and it hurts me to admit that. These are EXACTLY the words we should be singing to our Heavenly Father. There are so many ways this is applicable to the life of a believer. Imagine standing in front of Him in deep conviction and repentance and saying this at the moment of our salivation; earnestly feeling a Holy love for the Savior and asking Him to take our whole life for His purpose and glory! Psalm 116:1(NIV) “I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy.” There’s vulnerability and humility when we cry out to surrender a life that brings anguish and pain in exchange for a life in Christ that offers us grace and forgiveness. How can we not fall in love with the God who does that for us; for a Savior who loves us so much that He gave His life for us on the cross? 

It's easy to understand the kind of passion that leads us to accept the gift of salvation. But then where does that passion and love for God go? I think if you are truly saved, then you always love God; but we don’t always LIVE like we love Him. Life takes over; jobs, kids, responsibility, finances, hurt, loss, joy whatever it may be, it happens. We may still be faithful in our church attendance, bible study and prayer life, but do we still have that fire for Christ? Are we taking up our cross daily while asking Him to take our hand and lead. Are we surrendering every day to Him? Are we living our life ‘in love with Jesus’ or have we let other things trickle in? Romans 12:1(NIV) Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Sometimes when I’m going through a particularly hard time with something I will assign myself a “mantra” of sorts. It’s a phrase I’ll make myself say over and over until my mind quiets down and I can turn my focus back to Jesus and not feel so unbelievably overwhelmed. I’ve used phrases like “Please Jesus, take this from me and bring my thoughts back to You,” or “I can’t handle this today so I am laying this at Your feet because You go before me,” phrases along those lines. The problem doesn’t go away obviously, but it allows me to breathe and I remind myself that I’m not God and I can’t deal with whatever it is, on my own. I think having “Take my hand, Lord and my whole life because You love me and I love You” is a good mantra too. It shouldn’t replace prayer, but it’s a nice, quick reminder during the day to focus on the only one who is truly worthy to lead my life and order my steps.  

Lord, thank you for loving me unconditionally. Forgive me for not putting You first today. I pray that You will continue to lead me as I surrender every day to You and when I don’t I pray that you will remind me who’s I am and bring my thoughts back to You. Always and Amen” 

November 8, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

Tonight, I had to take an online test for a job I had applied for. The application process was pretty involved but I felt good about it when I hit the “submit” button; dare I say, even confident. When I got the email saying that they liked my application and wanted me to proceed with the process, my confidence was boosted even further. So, after dinner I got everything cleaned up and put away, made myself a cup of decaf coffee (cause, sleep!) in my Snoopy fall themed cup, grabbed my laptop and headphones and got situated on the couch, confidence still intact. I opened the email with the link and started reading the directions. “Ok, I can probably do this,” was my thought. Still fairly confident, I kept reading. The more I read, the more I could feel my confidence very slowly evaporate. Not anything noticeable, just ever so slightly. Barely a trickle really. The “test” was in three parts. Ok, no biggie. Then I read that each test is TIMED. Timed? Come on, really?? I immediately feel my breath catch. I don’t do well under pressure and timed is definitely pressure! “Ok, it’s fine. I’m fine. Just start and don’t pay attention to the timer….” Test 1 was Computer Literacy and Internet Knowledge and while I didn’t get all the questions correct, I think I’m still in the running. Test 2 was an Aptitude Assessment. I’m not gonna lie, no clue what that is, but here goes. Then that dreaded timer starts. It’s staring me down, daring my confidence (what was left, anyway). It clicked and kept clicking; faster than should have been possible. A few questions in and the panic starts to set in. It’s math. Dear sweet baby Jesus, no. I feel like I’m having flashbacks to high school then I realize that I barely remember math in high school because I’m 54!!!! More questions…more math….more panic…less confidence…it just kept going, just liked that stupid timer. It’s mocking me at this point, I’m absolutely sure of it. Now it’s a full blown 911 situation. I’m just speedily pretending to do math that I don’t know how to do while checking what I guess might be the right answer and the whole time….that timer is clicking down. I’m second guessing every single question and answer and then just like that; time is up! UGH. What just happened? Every bit of confidence I started with has officially left the building. Gone, like it never even existed. I’m just sitting there, staring at the computer wondering what just happened. I need Tylenol for this stress headache, STAT. I didn’t even want to attempt test 3, but there was literally nothing to lose at this point. So, carry on, I must and I did. 

I don’t have high hopes at this point, but I didn’t lose anything by trying. I was reminded of conversations that I had with Sarah and Gary just this afternoon. I made the statement to them that God usually shows up in situations and moves us around in a way that we never saw for ourselves. Sometimes in things that seem so impossible to have happened the way they did, God did it. He has a wonderful and exciting way of bringing clarity to our lives when it seems clouded by doubt and uncertainty. He is our clarity. Does that mean that I passed the math portion of the test and they’re going to offer me the job? Well, God is a God of miracles, so time will tell. Does that mean that one of my articles or devotions will get published and I’ll “make it big?” Not necessarily. But either way I’m confident God is working. I may not know where or how, but I don’t need to. He reveals things when we’re ready and only He knows when that is. Don’t get me wrong, my confidence gets easily shaken and I know He has to be up there, shaking His head at me again when I start complaining and getting scared. I like a plan. And many times in my life I start out super confident headed down the road I’m on and just like with that test, I lose it, little by little until it seems to never have existed. But no matter the circumstance, God is still working. Maybe He just has to move me a bit to the left or right until He finally has me in the perfect spot to be where He wants me. Sometimes that whole “free will” thing works against me when I start getting ahead of God by thinking I have my life figured out. It could be this job it could be getting published or absolutely none of it. I could be completely off track. Let’s be honest though, waiting for a period to be put at the end of where we have a question mark is hard. Either way, when it’s time for God to answer some of these questions for me, He’ll be the one to put the period, not me. Faith is waiting during that time when it’s hard, unknown or even hurts. Proverbs 3:26 (NET) says,” for the Lord will be the source of your confidence, and He will guard your foot from being caught in a trap.” I definitely don’t have any confidence in that stupid test, but I have confidence that if God wants this for me at this time, it will be done. If not, I will move on, even if it’s kicking and screaming. 

“Lord, let me remember to put my confidence in You and Your promises because You love me. Help me accept an answer of “no” or “wait” as graciously as I accept a “yes” from You. And for all things, thank You. In Jesus name, Amen.” 

November 1, 2023  

By: Gayle Dansby

 It’s November and with Thanksgiving coming we begin to hear the words “thankfulness” and “gratitude” more and more. It’s not a bad thing and I think we should all be reminded to have gratitude for God’s blessings. But if we’re being honest, as believers we sometimes defer to the “buzz” phrases and at this time of the year those are the two most prolific. We have so much to be thankful for and no doubt, the Lord’s blessings abound but my cup doesn’t always “runeth” over with gratitude. And most of the reason for that is because I find myself getting bogged down in the daily, mundane tasks and responsibilities that fill my day with stress and steal my joy, and with a schedule that’s too busy for me to even take a breath. Then there’s the added activities of planning for the holidays while making myself the sole person responsible for everyone else’s joy. We do it to ourselves and it’s a circumstance of our own making. Eventually, we realize what we’ve done and that we’ve silently placed God in the backseat and wondered why we feel overwhelmed. Then the guilt sets in, the repentance takes place THEN the gratitude comes. (I can’t be the only one this happens too, right?) It’s then, when we’re finally quiet, that God whispers, “Just slow down. You’re losing sight again, Gayle. Reign in the crazy a bit.” (Maybe He skips the last part with you, but it’s completely applicable for me.) Then I breathe a sigh of relief, realize what I’ve done, where I’m at, WHO’S I am and just reply with, “I’m sorry, Lord. You’re right, again, but You knew that already. I’m sorry and thank you.” And everything is as it should be because my focus is where it should be. 1 Peter 5:6-7(NET) says, “And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under His mighty hand by casting all your cares on Him because He cares for you.” 

Gratitude isn’t always easy. And it’s not because of a lack of faith or trust, it’s just because sometimes things are just really, really hard. Finding gratitude in the midst of mourning the loss of someone you love, going through a divorce or estranged from family, having such financial hardships that you don’t know how you’ll eat a Thanksgiving dinner, get a few gifts for your children or so many other scenarios that people go through, can be challenging. Life ebbs and flows and it’s easy, so easy to lose sight of anything to be thankful for when things look so bleak. I get it; I’ve been there. But God is still there and He’s the only one that can pull me from my misery back into the shelter of His grace. That’s where I find purpose, love and comfort. He cares for me, for us, just as 1 Peter 5:6-7 says. The Lord is not only my Savior, but He is my friend; James 2:23(NET) “…Abraham believed God…and he was called God’s friend.” Even when I don’t feel gratitude, I know the Creator of the world LOVES me and calls me His FRIEND, which makes me forever grateful and thankful. Could that be all gratitude needs to be? Maybe we should take the pressure off of ourselves this holiday season when we don’t feel grateful for everything in our lives and just be grateful for the Lord, who He is and the sacrifice that was given. Maybe if we could do that, the gratitude for all His blessings would naturally flow from there. If I can only utter a few words to my Savior at the end of my life, let it be “Thank you,” and let those be the first words I shout with joy as I wake up in His presence. 

“Father, thank you; today and always. I pray that I will continually be aware of Your love for me. I pray that on days I’m happy, my thoughts are of You and thanksgiving flows from my praise. I pray that on days I can’t speak, that my thoughts be of You. I pray for those that are hurting or suffering. I pray for them to have the strength to call on You. I ask Your forgiveness for the things I’ve taken for granted. May Your praise forever flow from my mouth. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.”  

October 25, 2023

By: Gayle Dansby

I was driving to work this week and it was a pretty typical morning but for the fact that we had a dense fog advisory. The early morning sky was a smoky grey and seemed to be trying to envelop the road I was headed down. I always preferred taking the long backroads. I never minded the quietness and solitude of my drive. It aways seemed to give me the few extra minutes I needed to wake up with my trusted cup of coffee and my thoughts. 

This particular morning my coffee seemed even more necessary since the dreariness of the morning fog seemed to be squashing any need for me to be productive with my day. My eye caught a shadow on the side of the road that seemed to be creeping toward me out of the mist. As I drove closer I could tell it was a man, in what appeared to be dress slacks and a button up shirt. This was a pretty deserted road without a lot of traffic and seeing the occasional  runner or cyclist was pretty common for that very reason, but seeing a man walking on the side of the road ready for office work was something I definitely hadn’t witnessed before.  It was odd and my first thought as I chuckled to myself was that the poor guy probably broke down somewhere on his way to work. 

As the excitement of the shadow figure subsided my thoughts began to pick up. He sure did look completely out of place, alone on this road. There’s no way you wouldn’t have noticed him. He didn’t “belong.” A runner or cyclist, sure; but not this poor guy who clearly didn’t look like he set out that morning to take a hike. A somber question hit me. As a Christian, do I stand out or would I fade in with the world and go unnoticed? Do I stand out for Christ for the right reasons or have I done a disservice to Him by standing out in the wrong way while professing my faith?  If I had to be honest, the answer is yes. Yes, to all of it; the good and the bad.  

Romans 12:2 (NIV) says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will”.  The scripture tells us to not conform but to be transformed. There have been times in my life when I have been bold in my faith, comfortable enough to not care what the world thought of me. My only thought was to be the person of faith that God wanted me to be and stand unapologetically. I’ve stood out. And then there were times when I hid in the shadows, afraid to speak, purposely deciding to not stand out. I’ve pushed God’s voice deeper still so that I could hide with the least amount of guilt possible. And I have found myself very comfortable there, in that dark place on anonymity. A place where nothing is required of me. But I have learned that in that space of anonymity, pushing God away and covering my ears, there is no peace. There is no light.  The solace that I was seeking becomes stark emptiness. 

But God. But GOD! James 2:23 (NIV) says of Abraham, “’Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.” As a born again, washed in the blood, believer in Jesus, He is not only my Redeemer, but my friend! At the thought of God’s great Name, and what He’s done for me, the shadow of quietness isn’t where I can ever stay. I am made to stand out for Him! That is our purpose. Psalm 96:3 (NIV) says, “Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples.” We were never meant to blend in with the world. Romans 1:16 (NIV), “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” We were always meant to stand out and declare the Gospel and the love of Jesus. We don’t do it because of who we are, but because of who He is. 

I don’t want to be someone who professes Christ but barely gets recognized because I’m either too worldly or I’m hiding. No friend, my prayer is that when the world looks at me, they see someone who has been changed, someone who looks a little out of place, someone willing to stand out and share the perfect love of the Savior of the world!   

Coming Soon