Live a Life of Harmony

Galatians 5:22, 23 (NLT) “The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

 My child, in relationships, all days are not easy days.

However, as people try to live in harmony,

they learn to take off the sharp edges of their personality

and eventually become more perfectly fitted together.

In your own relationships you are experiencing far more love

than you did twenty years ago.

Speaking in love to each other and learning cooperation,

allows you to grow emotionally.

Learning to listen, to hear, to know Me, allows you to grow spiritually.

The fruits of the Spirit are developed in much the same way:

patiently listening, following, and serving God and others.

Who will take the time and make the effort?

Green immature fruit is often bitter, tasteless and sour,

while ripe, mature fruit is rich with flavor, sweetness and purity.

Therefore taking the time to live in harmony

 achieves a life of peace, harmony and joy.

Ephesians 4:16 NLT “Christ makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does his own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy, growing and full of love.”

About seventeen years ago, when my husband got the diagnosis of ALS, he decided his one last dream was to travel throughout the United States. It seemed to be a daunting task to spend twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week together. Living in North America we seem to value our own private time and space, which is not possible in an RV. But God has worked on my heart, healing and showing me His ways during this time, ultimately helping us to walk ever closer to Him, with the side-effect of living in harmony.

However, we have much to learn. Each day brings new challenges for all of us. As Paul would say “we press on” knowing if we do our special part, God will bring about changes.

As we hold each others hands throughout life, God also holds ours!

Rose Spillenaar Harmer, www. listeningtohear.wordpress.com

Are You a Vessel for Him?

In Jeremiah there is a passage which I often thought described my life, especially when I experienced some difficult challenges: “The Lord gave a message to Jeremiah. He said, ‘Go down to the potter’s shop, and I will speak to you there.’ So I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over.” Jer. 18:1-6: (New Living Translation)

During the first part of my life I attended church very regularly, taught the beginner’s Sunday School class at the age of twelve, and read the Bible all the way through a number of times. I’ve been thankful I memorized some of the Word of God when I was young as I find it impossible to do at this age. Yet during a dark and dismal time when I was thirty, I had a profound experience of really knowing that Jesus loved me. Jesus cared very deeply about establishing a close relationship with me, which was new and life-giving.

Words cannot truly describe the daily loving words of comfort God wants to pour into our lives if we take the time to “listen” to Him, as the following words illustrate:

 You Are a Vessel

You have been broken and shattered.

I am making you into a vessel I can use.

This week be a cup to hold cold water

  – refreshing, sparkling and clean.

Water quenches the thirsty man.

All who drink water will find temporary satiation of their thirst.

If they find their way to Me, I will give them Living Water.

Walk in My goodness and above all,

 remember I love you.

 Years ago, Darlene Betzer wrote a song which has always touched my heart and stirs within me a desire to be His vessel.

“A vessel of honor for God,

A vessel of honor for God.

Sanctified, holy, so let me be.

A vessel of honor for God.”

 This is my desire and I trust it will be yours today! We are His vessels here on earth.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer
listeningtohear.wordpress.com

Will You Choose a Better Path?

Will You Choose a Better Path?

Everything happens for a purpose in My kingdom.

My timing is always perfect,

and therefore the timing of your life and circumstances is perfect as well.

I want you to live a fulfilled life.

Do not set deadlines for yourself.

Do a little of what inspires you each day.

Things will come together.

I am a God who understands.

I am not a God who places heavy burdens on my children.

Men who set themselves up as religious leaders

frequently give their congregations too many duties and responsibilities;

however, I came to set men free.

I came to heal.

There is a time and place for all stages of life,

times of busyness and times when the pace is slower.

I came to show you a better path for all your life.

Learn from me!

 Throughout our brief sojourn on earth, we go through many phases. Oftentimes there are things that happen as a child which we do not understand. Yet later in life, we recognize God had a plan and purpose, and He does not waste any experience no matter how trivial or life changing that event may be.

 In His Word, he says “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28 (NLT).

There have been experiences in my life that I would rather have missed, yet I saw, when I began my counseling career, it was very helpful in understanding the pain some of my clients experienced.

As He healed the various aspects in my life, I knew He could heal those hurtful passages of the people I saw. We serve an awesome God who knows us well and loves so deeply.

I want to walk His path, allowing Him to take my hand as He leads and guides me.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer, a retired marriage and family therapist.

Fear Not

Do Not Fear

I love you!

I come to reassure you of My love.

I see your struggles and see you reaching out for truth, love and wholeness.

I am pleased with your persistence.

Do not fear for the waters shall not overtake you.

When the enemy comes in like a flood,

it is then I will lift you up.

Your need for completeness and wholeness is good.

Your soul is priceless to Me.

My own blood, my own life has been poured out for you.

Do not fear, but trust I will always be with you.

 When the Lord speaks to people, He often uses scripture we have heard over the years or memorized. In Isaiah 59:19 (KJV) it says “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.”

Is it not wonderful to know the Lord will fight our enemies? We do not need to be afraid! I am thrilled we have His word and also the gentle Holy Spirit who whispers reassurances to our spirit. As we spend time in His Presence – we soak in peace and love.

In Psalms 124 (NLT), we realize more fully that God is on our side. He vanquishes the enemies that challenge us; and enemies can take on many different forms. Sometimes it is people who feel threatened by our position or people who prefer the status quo rather than those who strive for more. Those who fight us can get angry, and if they are in a position of power can hurt us physically, materially or emotionally.

“The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed us. Yes the raging waters of their fury would have overwhelmed our very lives. Yet, our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Psalms 124:4,5,8 (NLT)

The Lord is a mighty God who can overthrow the enemy and protect our minds, hearts and strength through the many trials which come our way. He enables us to see a higher perspective, realizing that He is the One in control of the winds that come to buffet our comforts. These trials come so that we may perfect our faith and grow in wisdom, grace and love.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer is a retired marriage and family therapist http://www.listeningtohear.wordpress.com

 

I Will Help You

I Will Help You

Reading Psalms 139:13, 14 (NLT) is amazing: “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous – how well I know it.”

Of course I will help you.

Do not be afraid for I am your true strength.

You draw wisdom, understanding and knowledge from this hour with Me.

It is a quiet understanding that I will help you with all things,

Because I love and care for you

I will give you courage and boldness.

Remember the old adage ‘there are no stupid questions.’

It is only when you neglect to ask Me or others

that you stop growing and learning.

I know you feel comfortable with Me because we have had

a meaningful relationship for many, many years.

The times we walk and talk together are precious to Me.

I know you wonder how that can be since I am King of all kings.

However, I am the God who fashioned you in your mother’s womb,

and knows your inner thoughts and needs.

I love you, My precious child.

Sometimes, it is hard for me to comprehend that God truly is interested in everything we do!! Yet He does care and wants to help us accomplish those tasks he planned for us to do.

 Each day as I talk to God about even trivial concerns, He helps me choose a better perspective. Since we live in small places, it sometimes is difficult to entertain guests easily and I often feel stressed. One time in the midst of a situation, God directed me to the following scripture: 1 Peter 4:8, 9(NLT) “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay.”

 Reminders such as this scripture from the Lord, are very wonderful as they encourage rather than discourage us and assist us in learning His way of living lovingly and peacefully.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer
listeningtohear.wordpress.com

I Give Many Gifts

I Give Many Gifts

My child, do not be overly concerned about things that perish.

Trust in Me and I will show you My ways.

It is not difficult to trust and obey when you recall

how I have answered your prayers.

I have performed many miracles in your life.

You have experienced My healing touch personally

as well as in your loved ones’ lives.

You have seen Me provide over and over again.

I will give you one of the greatest gifts today

and that is peace of mind.

Take it and open it!

Simply enjoy these days with My gift of peace.

 John 14:27 (NLT): “I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So do not be troubled or afraid.”

 When we focus our mind and attention on the things that perish, such as cars, houses, furniture and all our earthly possessions which take time and care, we often lose the peace God wants to give us.

However, I’m sure most of you recognize the many times God has provided what you needed. Sometimes, it is His healing touch.

Thirty years ago, I was sitting in a church service where the pastor was speaking about the sin of having idols in our lives. I was struggling with severe clinical depression and my girlfriend had suggested I attend this particular service. We were sitting close to the back of the church.

I recall saying to the Lord, “I don’t have any idols in my life!”

The still small voice spoke to my mind and said, “Oh yes, you do! You have set your husband up in My place. He comes first, not Me.

I recognized the truth and without hesitation said, “I did not know. Will you forgive me?”

Immediately I experienced a warm current flooding my body for the first and only time in my life! I turned to my friend and whispered, “I am healed!” She said she could see a light in my eyes which before had been clouded by depression.

It is so true, only Jesus can give us that peace of mind which can be ours day after day and year after year. We only need to receive it.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer is a retired marriage and family therapist.

Trust Me

Isaiah 41:9-10 (NIV) “I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corner I called you. I said, “You are my servant, I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

 Trust Me

I am with you and will help you.

Nothing is too hard for Me.

You touch the lives of many people because I help you.

Offer them peace and love!

I will continue to aid you throughout your journey here on earth.

You have done what you can.

Do not fuss about inconsequential and insignificant things.

Keep trusting Me each day for the steps you take.

Trust Me and I will use and guide you throughout your life.

Allow Me to direct your way.

Trust I am overseeing your steps.

Though at times you walk through valleys, I am there,

and I am always holding your hand.

This morning as I pondered God’s words I could not help but think of Psalms 23:4 (NLT)

“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.”

Whether you are traveling through some dark valley or riding on a mountain top, God promises to stay close beside you. Often the valleys are times when faith and trust are strengthened the most. When emotions are at a low ebb and situations are difficult, the only anchor in life is God. Truly He is the only one we really can rely upon, and as we trust Him more, leaning on Him, all the rest of life falls into place and joy is possible in the midst of any situation.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer

God’s Path

God’s Path

I love you, My child.

 I know the paths of right living may be harder to find

in your cluttered culture.

A culture of quiet living tends to bring large blocks of time

for contemplation and meditation.

Since you choose to live My way, you will find treasures in silence.

You know you obtain energy and satisfaction studying My Word.

Take the necessary time to do so.

Your other tasks will get done.

I know many things are hard for you.

However, you are growing and changing.

You want to learn My ways and I will hold your hand as we walk.

I will keep you.

Some of you have written how difficult it is to be still in this modern age. Recently the television has been on for days because of tragedies in our country and it is hard to find a quiet place to listen for God’s voice in the midst of the chatter.

However, when we purpose in our hearts to follow the Master, I believe His still small voice encourages us to find the time and place where we can meditate on His words whispered to us or found in scripture.

Even enjoying the lovely tall pines that surround me today, glimpsing an elusive red cardinal or blue jay bring to mind God’s wonderful creation He made for us to enjoy.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer
http://www.listeningtohear.wordpress.com

Rose is a retired marriage and family therapist who enjoys prayer journaling and speaking on issues related to couples and families.

 

I Came for the Lost

There is no reward for inviting into your home those who can reciprocate.

I came to seek the lost and hurting people.

Remember, most of My miracles were to those who were destitute.

I gave sight to the blind man and cleansed the lepers.

I resurrected the widow’s son upon whom she depended.

I am extravagant with all My gifts and want you to be generous.

I have given you much and much is required of you.

I will show you the lost and needy.

I am pleased you want to reach out.

I will make a way for you to recognize those people

who want a helping hand in your community and church.

I will lead, guide and show you the way.

I only need My people to be willing.

Wait for Me to reveal the next step of the way.

 When I was marriage and family therapist and mental health counselor, there were many hurting people who came to our center. There were those whose marriages had been devastated by adultery and usually both partners needed help in processing pain and anger. Other couples needed to hone their communication skills and solve minor problems.  Still others were dealing with the aftermaths of sexual abuse or physical abuse.

The more serious mental illnesses were also reflected in our caseloads. Yet, these were often special people that we would see for long periods of time as they developed new abilities, were compliant with medications and went on to make successes of their lives. A wide variety of people were helped spiritually and emotionally.

Since I retired, I often wonder if God has something else He would like me to do as I wait in His presence, growing and learning more of His ways.

Yet, God has a plan and purpose  for all our lives. As we wait upon the Lord, He asks us to be open and aware of those people He puts in our path. Often it is astonishing to hear the stories of those people, and who knows, you may be the one who sows a seed of kindness.

Rose Spillenaar Harmer
http://ww.listeningtohear.wordpress.com

BE STILL

“Be still, and know that I am God”. Psalms 46:10

My child, my precious child,

yes, you need to be still long enough to understand My ways.

They are not difficult and do not require hard work.

However, people like you find it challenging to be still and listen.

While I was on earth, I spent many hours

 talking to the Father on the Judean hillsides

 which allowed Me to accept the limitations of my earthly body.

These times also helped Me agree to God’s timetable.

I want to lead you beside “still” waters – not moving waters.

There are no waterfalls and rushing streams.

Will you learn to be still?

In the stillness you let go of tension and pressure,

taking on quietness and peace,

setting your mind free of the endless list of tasks

which cause you to be heavy laden with burdens I did not give you.

This week learn to be still for one hour with Me,

and let me teach you My ways.

 Although I have spent many quiet times with God, this particular day, during the time set apart for the Lord I emptied the dishwasher, set the little robot vacuum to clean the living room, made a cup of tea and fixed something to eat. I then wondered why I was having a hard time envisioning God’s presence and hearing that still small voice. As usual, God was patient enough to tell me I needed to learn to simply wait in His presence.

In reading “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young, she also wrote “Seek Me first and foremost, then the rest of your life will fall into place, piece by piece.” I trust you will find time with the Lord today.

Psalm 23: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”

Rose Spillenaar Harmer
listeningtohear.wordpress.com

 Rose is a retired marriage and family therapist, who resides in Cape Coral, Florida and also travels throughout the United States and Canada. She enjoys speaking on communication, marriage skills and also spiritual issues especially on how to listen to the still small voice of God.