The Texas heat has been taking its toll. Even the honey bees are suffering; flying in mechanical formation they encircle the plastic pool, our dogs use to cool off in, as though they're waiting in line for a Grande Caramel Macchiato at Starbucks. Burn ban signs are spotting the countryside where wildflowers used to sway...

Much like the bees, people have been suffering personally due to the lack of rain. With the suffering comes a heightened awareness of the possibility that fire could easily consume our drought persistent topography. Thus, signs are posted to ignite 'caution' in the minds of those who could, albeit unknowingly, begin a blaze of destruction. Signs, signs, everywhere are signs...

For the past week in San Antonio we have been experiencing milder temperatures, especially in the mornings... I feel the cool winds of change fast approaching and I can't wait! Though the signs of the drought are still quite present, the promise of change lifts my mood. Do you ever feel that way spiritually?

Maybe you're experiencing emotional or financial difficulties but in the midst of it, the Spirit brings to your remembrance His promises of faithfulness and provision... then the promised winds of change become an anticipated belief. Thus, our outward signs of belief ignites hope in the minds of those who, albeit unknowingly are stepping ever so closer to the eternal blaze of destruction.

My friend, the winds of change is fast approaching, how are you preparing? The following scripture speaks truth to our responsibility as children of the Most High. If our faith is true, we are to continue to grow/change. Change is never easy, but necessary for growth. If you feel inadequate in any area, go to the Lord who reveals much.

"His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."  2 Peter 1:3-8 NIV

Father, bring forth the winds of change... that we might draw closer to You. Help our unknowing hearts to burst forth in song because of all You have done on our behalf. Help us to desire goodness over evil. As we verbalize our desire for knowledge, give it to us as promised in the Book of James. Bring us to an understanding of self-control and how it is to be applied in our lives. Increase my perseverance that I may stand in the gap for my brothers and sisters who are not yet where You desire them to be. Thank You Abba for the goodness and mutual affection you feed into me daily through Your word. You draw my eyes towards love, as it is the foundation of my ministry. Cause my knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ to be a catalyst for all who don't know Him. I pray that my life will not be unproductive or ineffective and that You receive all the glory and praise. Amen

Hugs in Him... Linda