This morning in my devotions the Holy Spirit brought a word to my mind.

OASIS
o·a·sis (-ss) NOUN: pl. o·a·ses (-sz)

1. A fertile or green spot in a desert or wasteland, made so by the presence of water.
2. A situation or place preserved from surrounding unpleasantness; a refuge: an oasis of serenity amid chaos.

I awoke about 5 a.m. this morning and literally had to FIGHT my flesh to drag my self out of bed. I knew that I was awakened to pray and spend time with the Lord, since I had this very issue on my mind the previous day. Knowing I had fallen asleep sometime after midnight, I was convinced that I needed more sleep, although truthfully, I felt rested and wide awake! It was a struggle for a few moments as today is a day off work for me, and on top of that, the Maine rain was falling very softly on the trees outside my open window. It was the kind of morning when you want to linger in bed, snug under the covers, for just a while longer! However, I pressed through and, in an effort to honor and obey my Father, I got out of bed.

During my time with the Lord this morning, I was praying about my life and this day that lies before me. Knowing that TODAY or even this very moment is really all that I have to give the Lord, I was seeking the Lord's wisdom regarding "making my life count". I have learned that while it is God who leads and controls my life, it is ultimately ME who makes the choice to obey and follow or to turn aside and serve my own agenda for the day and each moment. Seeking the Lord's direction on a deeper level, is when the word OASIS came to my mind. As I listened, the Holy Spirit spoke to me saying that my life, particularly this summer, is to be an OASIS where HE can abide and dwell so that others may find His refreshment, rest and peace. The Holy Spirit reminded me that all I really need to do is remain connected to The Vine (Christ) and to be pure and holy and USABLE for His glory. It is GOD who will be doing the refreshing and nurturing in the lives of others. My role is to point others to Him and to be His temple where He may dwell!

Just thought I'd share this instruction with any readers who happen onto this blog. Feel free to keep me accountable and 'check up' on this new mission that the Lord gave me for the summer! I will definitely be doing more praying and studying about this new purpose and direction and it will be exciting to see just what God does during the next months! May HE be praised and glorified in all things!