Another poem from the book my friend gave me:
Say it now (author unknown)
If you have a friend worth loving,
Love him. Yes, and let him know
That you love him, ere life's evening
Tinge his brow with sunset glow.
Why should good words ne'er be said
Of a friend- till he is dead?
If you hear a song that thrills you,
Sung by any child of song,
Praise it. Do not let the singer
Wait deserved praises long.
Why should one who thrills your heart
Lack the joy you may impart?
If you hear a prayer that moves you
By its humble, pleading tone,
Join it. Do not let the seeker
Bow before his God alone.
Why should not your brother share
The strength of "two or three" in prayer?
If you see the hot tears falling
From a brother's weeping eyes,
Share them. And by kindly sharing
Own our kinship in the skies.
Why should anyone be glad
When a brother's heart is sad?
If a silvery laugh goes rippling
Through the sunshine on his face,
Share it. 'Tis the wise man's saying-
For both grief and joy a place.
There's health and goodness in the mirth
In which an honest laugh has birth.
If your work is made more easy
By a friendly, helping hand,
Say so. Speak out brave and truly
Ere the darkness veil the land.
Should a brother workman dear
Falter for a word of cheer?
Scatter thus your seeds of kindness
All enriching as you go-
Leave them. Trust the Harvest Giver;
He will make each seed to grow.
So until the happy end
Your life shall never lack a friend.
There are often times when I want to thank someone, or encourage them. It seems odd that I feel uncomfortable doing so. Like I would annoy someone by speaking kindly to them. I wonder why that is. I could blame growing up watching too many tv shows that had too much negativity. I could blame having family that was much quicker with critism and put downs than they were with encouragement and kindness. I could blame bullies in school who tormented that shy, insecure person I was even then. Maybe who I should really blame is myself, for holding onto the idea that kindness is optional, and unnessesary. Whoever or whatever the reason, I need to step out of that mindset, and do as JESUS commands, and lift up my brothers and sisters. Be there to love, and encourage, and support those around me. Even when I feel awkward doing so.
Hmmm. I think this fits with the 'do good' rule again. Maybe GOD is trying to tell me something...
Monday, January 23, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
The LORD lifts me up
One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the LORD.
Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him,he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.
This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it:
"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way.But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,there is only one set of footprints.I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me."
The LORD replied:
"My son, my precious child,I love you and I would never leave you.During your times of trial and suffering,when you see only one set of footprints,it was then that I carried you."
I have felt the need to write about something for a while. I thought of this poem and how it fits what I have been pondering. See, I have suffered from depression for more than half my life. If I really thought about it, probably most of my life, certainly since I started adolescence. As I have gotten older I have learned to deal with the lows that come, most of the time it is a matter of a day or two, sometimes more. Usually it is pretty mild, sometimes not so much. As I have grown in my faith in GOD, I have (mostly) had an easier time 'riding it out'. Recently though, I had a tough time, partly because of some meds that I was on for my asthma. Being a pretty private person, I didn't tell many people what was going on, but I did confide in a few people pretty regularly. For a while I got to the point where I was really depending on those two people to make me feel 'normal'. I was placing an unfair amount of importance on whether I talked to them, got an email from them, saw them. And if I didn't, I didn't feel ok. Now that I am on the other side of that, I realize that was unfair to them, and unfair to me. And it wasn't a good use of my faith. As a Christian, I am to put my faith in GOD, I am to worship HIM, and call on HIM for strength. For certain, HE put my friends in my life to support and love me, to help me when I am down. But they are tools HE is using to help me up. If being with them and talking to them helps me feel better, great. But I can be ok without their presence, because I have HIS presence all the time. How very blessed I am to have the support of my sisters in CHRIST, but the real blessing is knowing that even if I had none of them, I still have HIM.
LORD, I thank YOU for the people YOU have placed in my life to help me when I am struggling. Please help me to remember that YOU are the strength that lifts me up, and those in my life are merely tools YOU are using to accomplish that. Please help me to remember that YOU are all I need to dig myself out of the pit I sometimes find myself in. Thank YOU for carrying me when I struggle.
Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the LORD.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him,he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.
This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it:
"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way.But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,there is only one set of footprints.I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me."
The LORD replied:
"My son, my precious child,I love you and I would never leave you.During your times of trial and suffering,when you see only one set of footprints,it was then that I carried you."
I have felt the need to write about something for a while. I thought of this poem and how it fits what I have been pondering. See, I have suffered from depression for more than half my life. If I really thought about it, probably most of my life, certainly since I started adolescence. As I have gotten older I have learned to deal with the lows that come, most of the time it is a matter of a day or two, sometimes more. Usually it is pretty mild, sometimes not so much. As I have grown in my faith in GOD, I have (mostly) had an easier time 'riding it out'. Recently though, I had a tough time, partly because of some meds that I was on for my asthma. Being a pretty private person, I didn't tell many people what was going on, but I did confide in a few people pretty regularly. For a while I got to the point where I was really depending on those two people to make me feel 'normal'. I was placing an unfair amount of importance on whether I talked to them, got an email from them, saw them. And if I didn't, I didn't feel ok. Now that I am on the other side of that, I realize that was unfair to them, and unfair to me. And it wasn't a good use of my faith. As a Christian, I am to put my faith in GOD, I am to worship HIM, and call on HIM for strength. For certain, HE put my friends in my life to support and love me, to help me when I am down. But they are tools HE is using to help me up. If being with them and talking to them helps me feel better, great. But I can be ok without their presence, because I have HIS presence all the time. How very blessed I am to have the support of my sisters in CHRIST, but the real blessing is knowing that even if I had none of them, I still have HIM.
LORD, I thank YOU for the people YOU have placed in my life to help me when I am struggling. Please help me to remember that YOU are the strength that lifts me up, and those in my life are merely tools YOU are using to accomplish that. Please help me to remember that YOU are all I need to dig myself out of the pit I sometimes find myself in. Thank YOU for carrying me when I struggle.
Serving Joyfully
So I spent all day yesterday reading sermons (www.sermoncentral.com -it's a wonderful site, full of sermons on tons of topics) and the topic I spent the most time in was complaining. I am terrible when it comes to complaining. A while back the pastor challenged us to wear bracelets, and everytime we complained we were to switch the bracelet to the other wrist. I spent a lot of time switching my bracelet :(. Anyway, as I read these sermons on complaining, I realized that, although I was technically 'serving' GOD, I wasn't always doing it with a joyful heart. Take today's service. How many times did I complain that I was nervous? How many times did I joke that I hoped it would snow enough to cancel church? I was agreeing to serve, but I was missing something important... the joy! GOD doesn't want us to punch our 'serving time card', HE wants us to serve HIM with joy in our hearts. So today, although I was still nervous, I made a choice to be joyful about the opportunity to serve my GOD and Savior. I don't know if I will jump at the chance to lead the worship service again, but today was a joyful experience. Not because it went well (it did), not because people responded positively (they did), and not because it made it possible for my pastor to take the weekend to lead the youth group in fellowship and worship (thank you Pastor S!!). But because I made the decision to serve HIM willingly and with joy. I guess I will always have some nervousness about some things, but that won't stop me from saying yes.
LORD, today YOU gave me immeasurable strength and calm. But in this experience I learned something too, that my attitude in serving YOU is far more important than the act itself. That to truely serve YOU, I need to do more than show up, I need to choose to be joyfull in serving YOU. YOU are amazing, and sharing Your message with others should fill me with joy, not fear. Thank YOU for teaching me that very important lesson! Thank YOU for giving me so many reasons for being joyful. I love YOU!!!!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
LORD, today YOU gave me immeasurable strength and calm. But in this experience I learned something too, that my attitude in serving YOU is far more important than the act itself. That to truely serve YOU, I need to do more than show up, I need to choose to be joyfull in serving YOU. YOU are amazing, and sharing Your message with others should fill me with joy, not fear. Thank YOU for teaching me that very important lesson! Thank YOU for giving me so many reasons for being joyful. I love YOU!!!!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
Sunday is 'the big day'. I keep telling myself not to be nervous. And I'm not, as long as I don't think about the fact that in less than 48 hours I have to co-lead the Sunday worship service. As soon as I think about getting up in front of the congregation, Satan starts his poking. You are going to mess up! poke poke. No one will like what you have to say! poke poke. You are going to embarass yourself! poke poke. You are going to let everyone down. poke poke.
The verse that is part of the skit we are doing is Hebrews 11:1. Not only does Hebrews call us to have faith that GOD is there, even if we can't see HIM; it gives an account of many of GOD's people who perservered in faith. Some of them endured things far worse and far scarier than sharing GOD's message with people who love and respect them. So what is my problem? Why does this experience cause me such fear and doubt? People keep telling me that I'll do great, and although I hope they are right, I question why they are so certain. Can't they see that I am not the best person for this job? Can't they see that I may not be the best person to share a message about answering GOD's call, when I feel completely freaked out and overwhelmed just thinking about getting up there? Can't they see that if I fail it will be devestating? I know that being nervous and fearful of this is unreasonable. I'm not facing torture and possible death. I am not leaving my home to travel to poverty stricken and war torn places. I'm not risking life and limb for the gospel. I'm driving to my safe, familiar church; surrounded by people who are my second family. I need to have faith that GOD will calm me and strengthen me, and that this experience will help me to see that there is nothing to fear in sharing myself for HIM. Hopefully Sunday I can post that I was being nervous for no reason, and that everything went great.
LORD, I need a lot of extra strength and grace this weekend. Please calm me and give me courage. Please help this experience teach me something about myself and my place as Your servant. Please help me not to let anyone down. Please strengthen my faith in YOU and Your presence and grace. In JESUS' name, Amen
Sunday is 'the big day'. I keep telling myself not to be nervous. And I'm not, as long as I don't think about the fact that in less than 48 hours I have to co-lead the Sunday worship service. As soon as I think about getting up in front of the congregation, Satan starts his poking. You are going to mess up! poke poke. No one will like what you have to say! poke poke. You are going to embarass yourself! poke poke. You are going to let everyone down. poke poke.
The verse that is part of the skit we are doing is Hebrews 11:1. Not only does Hebrews call us to have faith that GOD is there, even if we can't see HIM; it gives an account of many of GOD's people who perservered in faith. Some of them endured things far worse and far scarier than sharing GOD's message with people who love and respect them. So what is my problem? Why does this experience cause me such fear and doubt? People keep telling me that I'll do great, and although I hope they are right, I question why they are so certain. Can't they see that I am not the best person for this job? Can't they see that I may not be the best person to share a message about answering GOD's call, when I feel completely freaked out and overwhelmed just thinking about getting up there? Can't they see that if I fail it will be devestating? I know that being nervous and fearful of this is unreasonable. I'm not facing torture and possible death. I am not leaving my home to travel to poverty stricken and war torn places. I'm not risking life and limb for the gospel. I'm driving to my safe, familiar church; surrounded by people who are my second family. I need to have faith that GOD will calm me and strengthen me, and that this experience will help me to see that there is nothing to fear in sharing myself for HIM. Hopefully Sunday I can post that I was being nervous for no reason, and that everything went great.
LORD, I need a lot of extra strength and grace this weekend. Please calm me and give me courage. Please help this experience teach me something about myself and my place as Your servant. Please help me not to let anyone down. Please strengthen my faith in YOU and Your presence and grace. In JESUS' name, Amen
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Lamb
Little Lamb, who made Thee?
Dost thou know who made Thee?
Gave Thee life and bid Thee feed,
By the stream and o'er the mead;
Gave Thee clothing of delight,
Softest clothing wolly bright;
Gave Thee such a tender voice,
Making all the vales rejoice!
Little Lamb, who made Thee?
Dost Thou know who made Thee?
Little Lamb, I'll tell Thee,
Little Lamb, I'll tell Thee!
HE is called by Thy name,
For HE calls Himself a Lamb:
HE is meek and HE is mild,
He became a little child:
I a child and Thou a lamb,
We are called by HIS name.
Little Lamb, GOD bless Thee.
Little Lamb, GOD bless Thee.
William Blake, 1789
I have a very vague memory of having this poem read to me when I was very little. I think it may have been my grandmother who read it, I'm not sure. I do remember loving the way it sounded, like a song. I don't think I knew who it was about though, it would take over two decades before I fully appreciated who JESUS was, and is. If only someone had taken the time to explain JESUS and HIS gift to me when they read this poem, what a different life I would have lived! I am so thankful that HE kept after me until I found HIM!
JESUS, the Lamb, thank You for being a presence in my life, even before I knew about YOU! Thank You for Your prevenient grace in my life! I love YOU!! Amen
Dost thou know who made Thee?
Gave Thee life and bid Thee feed,
By the stream and o'er the mead;
Gave Thee clothing of delight,
Softest clothing wolly bright;
Gave Thee such a tender voice,
Making all the vales rejoice!
Little Lamb, who made Thee?
Dost Thou know who made Thee?
Little Lamb, I'll tell Thee,
Little Lamb, I'll tell Thee!
HE is called by Thy name,
For HE calls Himself a Lamb:
HE is meek and HE is mild,
He became a little child:
I a child and Thou a lamb,
We are called by HIS name.
Little Lamb, GOD bless Thee.
Little Lamb, GOD bless Thee.
William Blake, 1789
I have a very vague memory of having this poem read to me when I was very little. I think it may have been my grandmother who read it, I'm not sure. I do remember loving the way it sounded, like a song. I don't think I knew who it was about though, it would take over two decades before I fully appreciated who JESUS was, and is. If only someone had taken the time to explain JESUS and HIS gift to me when they read this poem, what a different life I would have lived! I am so thankful that HE kept after me until I found HIM!
JESUS, the Lamb, thank You for being a presence in my life, even before I knew about YOU! Thank You for Your prevenient grace in my life! I love YOU!! Amen
20 years
It's hard to say good-bye,
When I barely said hello.
And it's hard to let you go,
When I barely got to hold you.
And it's hard not to cry,
When I never heard you laugh.
But love never dies;
And I know we'll be together again in a faraway place,
and a faraway time;
But it's hard to say good bye,
when I barely said hello.
jls
Twenty years ago, on January 24, 1992, my stepson stepped into the arms of GOD. He was a week short of 7 months old. The events of that night are forever etched in my memory. The late night phone call, the somber drive to the hospital. The sight of that tiny little person, forever still, on the gurney. The feel of his tiny, soft foot as I rubbed his toes for the last time. The thick feelings of grief, hopelessness, and despair that hung in the air. The sad, quiet ride home, followed by the many phone calls the next day to let family and friends know what had happened. I will never forget that night and the sad weeks and months that followed, but the past two decades have healed the hole in my heart, and made way to remember the good times we had with him, few as they were. The first time I saw him, with his beautiful blue eyes, so sweet and innocent. Walking him around the dining room to help him go to sleep, feeding him bottles, trying to burp him (never did get the hang of the whole burping thing). And knowing now, 20 years and a life's journey of faith later, that I will see him in Heaven someday. Will he know me? Will he remember those few moments we spent together? Will he know how much I love him and how much I have missed him over the years? There are so many unanswered questions when a child dies. What would he have been like? Would he have looked like my husband, tall and handsome? Would he have been a good big brother to his little siblings? Would we have gotten along well? So many things to ponder.
LORD, you know my stepson, you've cared for him since before he was born, and watched over him since he died. Tell him he is not forgotten and still loved and missed. Thank YOU for the assurance that we will see him again someday, and that until then, he is in good hands!
When I barely said hello.
And it's hard to let you go,
When I barely got to hold you.
And it's hard not to cry,
When I never heard you laugh.
But love never dies;
And I know we'll be together again in a faraway place,
and a faraway time;
But it's hard to say good bye,
when I barely said hello.
jls
Twenty years ago, on January 24, 1992, my stepson stepped into the arms of GOD. He was a week short of 7 months old. The events of that night are forever etched in my memory. The late night phone call, the somber drive to the hospital. The sight of that tiny little person, forever still, on the gurney. The feel of his tiny, soft foot as I rubbed his toes for the last time. The thick feelings of grief, hopelessness, and despair that hung in the air. The sad, quiet ride home, followed by the many phone calls the next day to let family and friends know what had happened. I will never forget that night and the sad weeks and months that followed, but the past two decades have healed the hole in my heart, and made way to remember the good times we had with him, few as they were. The first time I saw him, with his beautiful blue eyes, so sweet and innocent. Walking him around the dining room to help him go to sleep, feeding him bottles, trying to burp him (never did get the hang of the whole burping thing). And knowing now, 20 years and a life's journey of faith later, that I will see him in Heaven someday. Will he know me? Will he remember those few moments we spent together? Will he know how much I love him and how much I have missed him over the years? There are so many unanswered questions when a child dies. What would he have been like? Would he have looked like my husband, tall and handsome? Would he have been a good big brother to his little siblings? Would we have gotten along well? So many things to ponder.
LORD, you know my stepson, you've cared for him since before he was born, and watched over him since he died. Tell him he is not forgotten and still loved and missed. Thank YOU for the assurance that we will see him again someday, and that until then, he is in good hands!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Give Me Your Eyes
Are you tired of songs yet? I hope not, cause I love music and have lots of favorite songs, so here's another one :) This one is called 'Give Me Your Eyes' by Brandon Heath (as usual the lyrics are compliments of elyrics and the video link on godtube http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=J9JJ2CNU ) I hope you enjoy it!
Looked down from a broken sky Traced out by the city lights My world from a mile high Best seat in the house tonight Touched down on the cold black top Hold on for the sudden stop Breathe in the familiar shock Of confusion and chaos All those people going somewhere Why have I never cared? Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah Step out on a busy street See a girl and our eyes meet Does her best to smile at me To hide what's underneath There's a man just to her right Black suit and a bright red tie Too ashamed to tell his wife He's out of work, he's buying time All those people going somewhere Why have I never cared? Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah I've been there a million times A couple of million eyes just moving past me by I swear I never thought that I was wrong Well, I want a second glance So give me a second chance To see the way You see the people all along Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing That I keep missing Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah Yeah, yeah, yeah
I think this ties in with the 'Do Good' rule. The first step in doing good is to know what needs there are that have to be met. You have to see people thru GOD's eyes before you want to reach out to them. How often do we rush past those who are hurting, averting our eyes and our hearts? How often do we make excuse; we are too tired, too busy, too undertrained, not enough resources...etc etc? What if we just stopped and tried to see others as GOD sees them? How much more would get done, how much less suffering would HIS children endure? Suffering that we have the power to stop. We live in a society of 'do what makes you feel good', of 'situation ethics', of man made morals. What if we went back to the simplicity of GOD's way? Do unto others, love your neighbor, honor your parents, when you do it to the least of these. What a blessing we would be able to be!!! What a joy we could share with the world!!! What an increase for GOD's kingdom!!!
LORD, please, give me your eyes! Help me to see Your children as you do, and be willing to put myself out there to help. Please help me to reach out and love others as YOU have loved me. Please convict me not to let the world and it's suffering pass me by without my stepping up to action. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Looked down from a broken sky Traced out by the city lights My world from a mile high Best seat in the house tonight Touched down on the cold black top Hold on for the sudden stop Breathe in the familiar shock Of confusion and chaos All those people going somewhere Why have I never cared? Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah Step out on a busy street See a girl and our eyes meet Does her best to smile at me To hide what's underneath There's a man just to her right Black suit and a bright red tie Too ashamed to tell his wife He's out of work, he's buying time All those people going somewhere Why have I never cared? Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah I've been there a million times A couple of million eyes just moving past me by I swear I never thought that I was wrong Well, I want a second glance So give me a second chance To see the way You see the people all along Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing Give me Your love for humanity Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Give me Your eyes for just one second Give me Your eyes so I can see Everything that I keep missing That I keep missing Give me Your arms for the broken hearted The ones that are far beyond my reach? Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten Give me Your eyes so I can see Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah Yeah, yeah, yeah
I think this ties in with the 'Do Good' rule. The first step in doing good is to know what needs there are that have to be met. You have to see people thru GOD's eyes before you want to reach out to them. How often do we rush past those who are hurting, averting our eyes and our hearts? How often do we make excuse; we are too tired, too busy, too undertrained, not enough resources...etc etc? What if we just stopped and tried to see others as GOD sees them? How much more would get done, how much less suffering would HIS children endure? Suffering that we have the power to stop. We live in a society of 'do what makes you feel good', of 'situation ethics', of man made morals. What if we went back to the simplicity of GOD's way? Do unto others, love your neighbor, honor your parents, when you do it to the least of these. What a blessing we would be able to be!!! What a joy we could share with the world!!! What an increase for GOD's kingdom!!!
LORD, please, give me your eyes! Help me to see Your children as you do, and be willing to put myself out there to help. Please help me to reach out and love others as YOU have loved me. Please convict me not to let the world and it's suffering pass me by without my stepping up to action. In JESUS' name, Amen.
The Weaver's Hand
The Weaver's Hand (author Unknown)
My life is but a weaving, between my GOD and me.
I do not choose the colors, HE worketh steadily.
Ofttimes HE weaveth sorrow, and I in foolish pride,
Forget HE sees the upper, and I the underside.
Not till the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly,
Will GOD unroll the canvas and explain the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful in the skillful Weaver's hand,
As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern HE has planned.
I made this box as a gift to JESUS for His birthday. It is a nice box. It's plaid (my favorite color... is too a color!!). I always joke about not wanting to leave my 'box'. Well, now I have no choice, I gave my box away :). I have to trust now that GOD is in control, HE has everything planned out. I just get the blessing of seeing where HE leads and how HE works in my life. The inside of this box is rather plain, you can't see the beauty of the design if you only look at the inside. It's not until you turn it over and look at all of it that the pattern shows. I know that personally, I can't wait to see what masterpiece the Weaver has made for my life!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Little duckling... future pastor?!?!
My littlest duckling informed me a while back that when she grows up she is going to be one of three things: a pastor, a Chinese teacher, or a cook. This is the conversation that followed:
Me: Why do you want to be a pastor?
LD: Cause then I can teach people about JESUS.
Me: You know that Pastors have to talk in front of lots of people right. Like Pastor (S) does every week.
LD: Yup. I don't mind. I like to talk.
Me: Won't you be nervous?
LD: Nope, my legs don't even shake when I talk in front of people. It's fun.
Well then. I guess it's safe to say she does NOT get that from me :)
Me: Why do you want to be a pastor?
LD: Cause then I can teach people about JESUS.
Me: You know that Pastors have to talk in front of lots of people right. Like Pastor (S) does every week.
LD: Yup. I don't mind. I like to talk.
Me: Won't you be nervous?
LD: Nope, my legs don't even shake when I talk in front of people. It's fun.
Well then. I guess it's safe to say she does NOT get that from me :)
Do Good
So since I did a post about the first of the 'Three Simple Rules for Christian Living', I thought I should do a post for the second rule too. The second rule is 'do good'. I have been thinking about it a lot. See, part of the message was this quote from Frederick Beuchner (a writer and minister) "The place GOD calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's great hunger meet". Hmm. It seems like everywhere I turn lately, I am getting a message about GOD's call. And in ways that compel me to really think about it. The problem is this; I don't know what HE's calling me to. I know that HE wants me to be with my kids at this time, and as I said in a previous post, I am starting from square one. I can do anything (well, within reason. I'm thinking sumo wrester or opera singer are probably not options.) So what is HE trying to tell me? I like to do good. I like helping people, doing things to make life easier for others. I could take the easy way out and say that helping is enough. That showing up and being available to lend a hand is all that is nessessary to really be following that 'rule'. But given the fact that GOD is hitting me up side the head with a 2x4 (again. Did I mention I'm a bit stubborn?) with messages everywhere about calling and answering HIS call; I would say that I need to reevaluate what else I can be doing. Hmmm. I think I may have to update later on what I come up with!!
The Right Call
"GOD has not called me to be successful; HE has called me to be faithful" -Mother Teresa
This is such a hard thing to reconcile. I tend to avoid doing things I don't feel comptent to do well. I make excuse, saying I don't want to let people down if I don't succede, but really, I just don't want to 'fail'. It is a pride issue, too much of it to be honest. I need to forget about doing things 'just right' and instead focus on doing faithfully. GOD calls His children to serve HIM by serving others, spreading the news that HE loves them and has made a way for them. When I stand before HIM, will I hear 'Well done, good and faithful servant'? Will HE be pleased with the way I lived, pleased that I stood up and remained faithful? Or will HE sigh, and say HE wishes I had trusted HIM more to be the one in charge? Is that what it comes down to, my lack of wanting to give up control? If HE is the one in control of my life, then HIS success will be the end result. I just have to stand back and trust (there it is again, trust!!). Oh, and be still. Still working on that one :)
LORD, I know that I need to stop trying to be the one in control. I know that faithfullness is more important to YOU than success. Please help me to trust in YOU and be faithful. Please give me the strength to stand strong, and to give up control and be still in YOU. In JESUS' name, Amen.
This is such a hard thing to reconcile. I tend to avoid doing things I don't feel comptent to do well. I make excuse, saying I don't want to let people down if I don't succede, but really, I just don't want to 'fail'. It is a pride issue, too much of it to be honest. I need to forget about doing things 'just right' and instead focus on doing faithfully. GOD calls His children to serve HIM by serving others, spreading the news that HE loves them and has made a way for them. When I stand before HIM, will I hear 'Well done, good and faithful servant'? Will HE be pleased with the way I lived, pleased that I stood up and remained faithful? Or will HE sigh, and say HE wishes I had trusted HIM more to be the one in charge? Is that what it comes down to, my lack of wanting to give up control? If HE is the one in control of my life, then HIS success will be the end result. I just have to stand back and trust (there it is again, trust!!). Oh, and be still. Still working on that one :)
LORD, I know that I need to stop trying to be the one in control. I know that faithfullness is more important to YOU than success. Please help me to trust in YOU and be faithful. Please give me the strength to stand strong, and to give up control and be still in YOU. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Better To Give
This poem is from a book given to me by a friend a few years ago. The book is called GOD's Treasury of Virtues and the poem is called 'Better to Give' by (Anonymous).
Better to Give
GOD gives us joy that we may give;
HE gives us joy that we may share;
Sometimes HE gives us loads to lift
That we may learn to bear.
For life is gladder when we give,
and love is sweeter when we share,
and heavy loads rest lightly too
When we have learned to bear.
One of the wisest things that anyone ever pointed out to me was the fact that everything I have is mine because GOD chose to bless me with it. Whether it is money, talent, time, health, peace of mind, love, joy. HE knows what I need and gives me the things I have for a reason. I once had a bit of a temper. I had just had to have my vehicle towed to the mechanic, and the resulting bill pretty much depleted our small savings. Money that I had set aside so that we would have a 'cushion'. I was so frustrated! I had saved diligently for what seemed like forever so that I could feel like we weren't living paycheck to paycheck, and now it was gone in the blink of an eye. When I vented to my friend that is was unfair that I had saved for so long and now had nothing to show for it, she quietly pointed out that perhaps we had that amount of money in savings because GOD knew that was how much I would need to handle that emergency. Hmmm. Talk about humbling. It was a turning point in my faith. I started seeing things very differently. Instead of grumbling about how little we had and how close to the wire we were financially at times, I started seeing how GOD really does provide what we need when we need it. And I have been more willing to share what we have; realizing that sometimes, GOD gives us something that wasn't intended to remain ours, it was intended for us to give it away, be a blessing to someone else. Recently we went to the midweek service at our church. When the offering basket was passed around I looked over at my two sons. Both boys pulled out their wallets and put money in the basket. Willingly, selflessly,joyfully, and without prompting from my husband or myself. I was so proud of them, and life was certainly made a little sweeter in that moment, I saw love for others in that little gesture. Wow, maybe some of the things we've tried to teach them are sinking in!
LORD, thank YOU for all you give us! For the joy, and the love, and the loads. Thank YOU for helping us learn to share and bear. Help us to joyfully share all YOU have blessed us with, and be a blessing to others in YOUR name. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Better to Give
GOD gives us joy that we may give;
HE gives us joy that we may share;
Sometimes HE gives us loads to lift
That we may learn to bear.
For life is gladder when we give,
and love is sweeter when we share,
and heavy loads rest lightly too
When we have learned to bear.
One of the wisest things that anyone ever pointed out to me was the fact that everything I have is mine because GOD chose to bless me with it. Whether it is money, talent, time, health, peace of mind, love, joy. HE knows what I need and gives me the things I have for a reason. I once had a bit of a temper. I had just had to have my vehicle towed to the mechanic, and the resulting bill pretty much depleted our small savings. Money that I had set aside so that we would have a 'cushion'. I was so frustrated! I had saved diligently for what seemed like forever so that I could feel like we weren't living paycheck to paycheck, and now it was gone in the blink of an eye. When I vented to my friend that is was unfair that I had saved for so long and now had nothing to show for it, she quietly pointed out that perhaps we had that amount of money in savings because GOD knew that was how much I would need to handle that emergency. Hmmm. Talk about humbling. It was a turning point in my faith. I started seeing things very differently. Instead of grumbling about how little we had and how close to the wire we were financially at times, I started seeing how GOD really does provide what we need when we need it. And I have been more willing to share what we have; realizing that sometimes, GOD gives us something that wasn't intended to remain ours, it was intended for us to give it away, be a blessing to someone else. Recently we went to the midweek service at our church. When the offering basket was passed around I looked over at my two sons. Both boys pulled out their wallets and put money in the basket. Willingly, selflessly,joyfully, and without prompting from my husband or myself. I was so proud of them, and life was certainly made a little sweeter in that moment, I saw love for others in that little gesture. Wow, maybe some of the things we've tried to teach them are sinking in!
LORD, thank YOU for all you give us! For the joy, and the love, and the loads. Thank YOU for helping us learn to share and bear. Help us to joyfully share all YOU have blessed us with, and be a blessing to others in YOUR name. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Psalm 23
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2HE maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
HE leadeth me beside the still waters.
3HE restoreth my soul: HE leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for HIS name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for THOU art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.
5THOU preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: THOU anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
I have heard this psalm countless times, read it at the funerals of both my grandfathers, cried when hearing it at other funerals, heard it sung, seen books and cross stitches dedicated to it. It has such meaning and comfort. HE is our shepherd, there to guide and protect us. HE leads us to safety, sometimes thru valleys full of shadows and threats. HE feeds us what we need, spiritually and physically, until we are filled to overflowing. HE is present and active in our lives, even when we don't recognize HIM. Even when we feel isolated and lonely, or overwhelmed and fearful, or rejected and unloved. Even when the shadows in that valley threaten to swallow us, they can't. HE is the light and HE will conquer any shadows before they can consume us.
2HE maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
HE leadeth me beside the still waters.
3HE restoreth my soul: HE leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
for HIS name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for THOU art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.
5THOU preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: THOU anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
I have heard this psalm countless times, read it at the funerals of both my grandfathers, cried when hearing it at other funerals, heard it sung, seen books and cross stitches dedicated to it. It has such meaning and comfort. HE is our shepherd, there to guide and protect us. HE leads us to safety, sometimes thru valleys full of shadows and threats. HE feeds us what we need, spiritually and physically, until we are filled to overflowing. HE is present and active in our lives, even when we don't recognize HIM. Even when we feel isolated and lonely, or overwhelmed and fearful, or rejected and unloved. Even when the shadows in that valley threaten to swallow us, they can't. HE is the light and HE will conquer any shadows before they can consume us.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Don't Leave it on the Desk!
This was an email sent by one of my 'loaner kids'. I don't know who wrote it, but it is a beautiful illustration of GOD's love for us (on a smaller scale of course!)
"DON'T LEAVE IT ON THE DESK"
There was a certain professor named Dr. Christianson, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western United States and who was a Christian. Dr. Christianson taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular institution. Every student was required to take this course their freshman year, regardless of his or her major. Although Dr. Christianson tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously. This year, Dr. Christianson had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class. One day, Dr. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. "How many push-ups can you do?" Steve said, "I do about 200 every night." "200? That's pretty good, Steve," Dr. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?" Steve replied, "I don't know .. I've never done 300 at a time." "Do you think you could?" again asked Dr. Christianson. "Well, I can try," said Steve. "Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind, and I need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," said the professor. Steve said, "Well ... I think I can ... yeah, I can do it." Dr. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let me explain what I have in mind." Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited: it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr. Christianson's class. Dr. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?" Cynthia said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?" "Sure!" Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk. Dr.. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe, do you want a donut?" Joe said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups, Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle; Steve did ten push-ups for every person before he/she got his/her donut. Walking down the second aisle, Dr. Christianson came to Scott. Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship.. When the professor asked, "Scott do you want a donut?" Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own push-ups?" Dr. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them." Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then." Dr... Christianson shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?" With perfect obedience, Steve started to do ten push-ups. Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!" Dr. Christianson said, "Look! This is my classroom, my class, my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk. Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow. Dr. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"Sternly, Jenny said, "No." Then Dr. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?"Steve did ten ... Jenny got a donut. By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say, "No!" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push-ups done for each donut.. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved. Dr. Christianson asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbelievers in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten push-ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert count the set and watch Steve closely. Dr. Christianson started down the fourth row.. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.Dr. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set. Steve asked Dr. Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?" Dr. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your push-ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want." And Dr. Christianson went on. A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!" Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come." Professor Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in, you will have to do ten push-ups for him?" Steve said, "Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut." Dr. Christianson said, "Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now ... Jason, do you want a donut?" Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. "Yes," he said, "give me a donut." "Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down. Dr Christianson finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time, sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room. The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders and very popular. Dr. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?" Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you." Professor Christianson quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?" Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push-ups for Linda. Then Dr. Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?" Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. "Dr. Christianson, why can't I help him?" Dr . Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, Steve has to do it alone; I have given him this task, and he is in charge of seeing that everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not ... when I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up, he must do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price by doing your push-ups. He and I made a deal ... for your sakes." "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?" As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push-ups, his arms buckled beneath him, and he fell to the floor. Dr. Christianson turned to the room and said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, pled to the Father, 'Into Thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten. " Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile. "Well done, good and faithful servant," said the professor, adding, "Not all sermons are preached in words." Turning to his class, the professor said, "My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. God spared not His Only Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole world, now and forever, even for those who refuse His gift of everlasting life. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us and believe that He is our one and only Savior, the price has been paid. Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?"
So what will you do with HIS gift? Will you take it and make it a part of who you are and how you live? Or will you leave it 'on the desk'? HE made the sacrifice for each and every one of the people on this earth. It doesn't matter if you have lots of money... or none at all. It doesn't matter if you are a liar and a thief... or unerringly honest and hard working. It doesn't matter if you are married, single, with lots of kids or none. It doesn't matter if you have made choices in your life that aren't in accordance with HIS will, or if you are one of the most moral people around. None of us is 'good enough'. But HE loves us enough to make a way to HIM, thru HIS Son.
"DON'T LEAVE IT ON THE DESK"
There was a certain professor named Dr. Christianson, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western United States and who was a Christian. Dr. Christianson taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular institution. Every student was required to take this course their freshman year, regardless of his or her major. Although Dr. Christianson tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously. This year, Dr. Christianson had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class. One day, Dr. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. "How many push-ups can you do?" Steve said, "I do about 200 every night." "200? That's pretty good, Steve," Dr. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?" Steve replied, "I don't know .. I've never done 300 at a time." "Do you think you could?" again asked Dr. Christianson. "Well, I can try," said Steve. "Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind, and I need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," said the professor. Steve said, "Well ... I think I can ... yeah, I can do it." Dr. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let me explain what I have in mind." Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited: it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr. Christianson's class. Dr. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?" Cynthia said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?" "Sure!" Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk. Dr.. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe, do you want a donut?" Joe said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups, Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle; Steve did ten push-ups for every person before he/she got his/her donut. Walking down the second aisle, Dr. Christianson came to Scott. Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship.. When the professor asked, "Scott do you want a donut?" Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own push-ups?" Dr. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them." Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then." Dr... Christianson shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?" With perfect obedience, Steve started to do ten push-ups. Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!" Dr. Christianson said, "Look! This is my classroom, my class, my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk. Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow. Dr. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"Sternly, Jenny said, "No." Then Dr. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?"Steve did ten ... Jenny got a donut. By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say, "No!" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push-ups done for each donut.. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved. Dr. Christianson asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbelievers in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten push-ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert count the set and watch Steve closely. Dr. Christianson started down the fourth row.. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it.Dr. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set. Steve asked Dr. Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?" Dr. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your push-ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want." And Dr. Christianson went on. A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!" Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come." Professor Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in, you will have to do ten push-ups for him?" Steve said, "Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut." Dr. Christianson said, "Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now ... Jason, do you want a donut?" Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. "Yes," he said, "give me a donut." "Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down. Dr Christianson finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time, sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room. The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders and very popular. Dr. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?" Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you." Professor Christianson quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?" Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push-ups for Linda. Then Dr. Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?" Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. "Dr. Christianson, why can't I help him?" Dr . Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, Steve has to do it alone; I have given him this task, and he is in charge of seeing that everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not ... when I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up, he must do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price by doing your push-ups. He and I made a deal ... for your sakes." "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?" As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push-ups, his arms buckled beneath him, and he fell to the floor. Dr. Christianson turned to the room and said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, pled to the Father, 'Into Thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten. " Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile. "Well done, good and faithful servant," said the professor, adding, "Not all sermons are preached in words." Turning to his class, the professor said, "My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. God spared not His Only Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole world, now and forever, even for those who refuse His gift of everlasting life. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us and believe that He is our one and only Savior, the price has been paid. Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?"
So what will you do with HIS gift? Will you take it and make it a part of who you are and how you live? Or will you leave it 'on the desk'? HE made the sacrifice for each and every one of the people on this earth. It doesn't matter if you have lots of money... or none at all. It doesn't matter if you are a liar and a thief... or unerringly honest and hard working. It doesn't matter if you are married, single, with lots of kids or none. It doesn't matter if you have made choices in your life that aren't in accordance with HIS will, or if you are one of the most moral people around. None of us is 'good enough'. But HE loves us enough to make a way to HIM, thru HIS Son.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Thru the Storm
I had an appointment today. It was snowing like crazy and I hate, I mean hate (and I don't use that word lightly) driving in the snow. I can do it, but by the end of the trip I am a nervous wreck. Anyway, I got there safely (thank YOU GOD!!) and had my appointment (which went well) and got in the car to head home thru snow falling even heavier and faster than it was on the way there. After saying another quick prayer for safe travel, I set off toward home. As I was driving I was struck by the way the snow was just, well, everywhere. I couldn't see more than a few hundred feet in any direction, it was kind of isolating. It made me think of the ride in. I was going in to talk to the doctor, not knowing if there was something serious going on (there isn't) and was scared about what I might be facing. I had to trust that GOD knows the path I will travel thru my life, even if I can't see anything but what is right there at that moment, HE can. HE knows what trials I will face in my life, and how to get me thru them. HE has already shown me that HE is faithful to strengthen me and give me the tools I need to live for HIM. HE has already shown me that HE will never leave me, that even when I feel that I am living in the darkness, it isn't because HE has taken HIS light from my life. When I feel like the darkness is surrounding me, I can rest assured that HE is sheltering me with HIS powerful hand, protecting me from the attacks of the enemy. So as I traveled home thru the storm (literally and figuratively), I was overwhelmed with a peace and a calm and such amazing love that it took my breath away. How blessed I am to be HIS.
LORD, thank YOU for Your ever-present loving care. Thank YOU for bringing me thru the storms of life. Thank YOU for making me YOURS! In JESUS' name, Amen
LORD, thank YOU for Your ever-present loving care. Thank YOU for bringing me thru the storms of life. Thank YOU for making me YOURS! In JESUS' name, Amen
Monday, January 9, 2012
Resolutions
So the new year is just over a week old, and I've been asked a number of times if I made any New Year Resolutions. In the past I have made resolutions, usually failing to keep them longer than a month at the most. Things like 'I will yell at my kids less' or 'I will exercise more' or 'I will only eat healthy foods'. Yup, pretty unrealistic. This year, I was glad to have the last year behind me, and start new, so I didn't even think about it. Well, I've been thinking about it. I am still working thru the 'So Long Insecurity' devotion, and since I am learning to change the way I see myself and the world in general, I decided a few 'resolutions' were in order. So here are my 'resolutions', I hope they stick!
1. To put GOD's opinion of me above anyone else's
2. To not worry so much about doing everything perfectly, to not avoid doing something good because it wouldn't be great.
3. To say 'yes' to serving GOD, even if it means getting out of my 'box'
4. To live deliberately, actively looking for GOD's message to me
5. To try to see myself (and others) the way GOD sees me (them)
6. To not beat myself up if (when) I don't keep all these resolutions all the time :)
7. To remember to be still and wait for GOD
1. To put GOD's opinion of me above anyone else's
2. To not worry so much about doing everything perfectly, to not avoid doing something good because it wouldn't be great.
3. To say 'yes' to serving GOD, even if it means getting out of my 'box'
4. To live deliberately, actively looking for GOD's message to me
5. To try to see myself (and others) the way GOD sees me (them)
6. To not beat myself up if (when) I don't keep all these resolutions all the time :)
7. To remember to be still and wait for GOD
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Do No Harm
Sunday in church we learned the first of three 'rules' as seen by the founder of the Methodist church, John Wesley. The rule is 'do no harm', and as I sat there thinking about the sermon, I kept thinking of this song by Casting Crowns called City on the hill. (lyrics from elyrics, video link on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJ5R08xDC6c)
Did you hear of the city on the hill? Said one old man to the other It once shined bright and it would be shining still But they all started turning on each other You see, the poets thought the dancers were shallow And the soldiers thought the poets were weak And the elders saw the young ones as foolish And the rich man never heard the poor man speak And one by one, they ran away With their made up minds, to leave it all behind And the light began to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill Each one thought that they knew better But they were different by design Instead of standing strong together They let their differences divide And one by one, they ran away With their made up minds, to leave it all behind And the light began to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill And the world is searching still But it was the rhythm of the dancers That gave the poets life It was the spirit of the poets That gave the soldiers strength to fight It was the fire of the young ones It was the wisdom of the old It was the story of the poor man That needed to be told It is the rhythm of the dancers That gives the poets life It is the spirit of the poets That gives the soldiers strength to fight It is the fire of the young ones It is the wisdom of the old It is the story of the poor man That's needing to be told One by one, will we run away With our made up minds to leave it all behind As the light begins to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill One by one, we'll be running away With our made up minds, to leave it all behind As the light begins to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill Come home And the Father's calling still Come home To the city on the hill Come home
I don't know why that song kept going thru my head. Maybe because it talks about judging others and how that is so harmful and hurtful. Maybe because it is so important to respect our differences, especially as the body of CHRIST. I actually pulled this post for a few days, I didn't like what I had writen, it felt wrong, and didn't really express what I had been thinking. I have a lot of friends and family who aren't Christians. I love them dearly, and want nothing more than for them to come to CHRIST, but am I being the kind of witness that shows them what it is to be a follower of CHRIST? Do they see HIS love and mercy and grace in the way I live my life? Or do they see judgement and hypocrisy? I hope it is the former!! I hope that when they look at me and the way I live my life they feel a hunger to know HIM, that they see HIS light shining in me.
LORD, help me to see the beautiful individuality in each of Your children. Help me not to judge and run away from Your plan and Your light. Please let others see YOU, and YOUR light in the way I live my life. In JESUS' name. Amen
Did you hear of the city on the hill? Said one old man to the other It once shined bright and it would be shining still But they all started turning on each other You see, the poets thought the dancers were shallow And the soldiers thought the poets were weak And the elders saw the young ones as foolish And the rich man never heard the poor man speak And one by one, they ran away With their made up minds, to leave it all behind And the light began to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill Each one thought that they knew better But they were different by design Instead of standing strong together They let their differences divide And one by one, they ran away With their made up minds, to leave it all behind And the light began to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill And the world is searching still But it was the rhythm of the dancers That gave the poets life It was the spirit of the poets That gave the soldiers strength to fight It was the fire of the young ones It was the wisdom of the old It was the story of the poor man That needed to be told It is the rhythm of the dancers That gives the poets life It is the spirit of the poets That gives the soldiers strength to fight It is the fire of the young ones It is the wisdom of the old It is the story of the poor man That's needing to be told One by one, will we run away With our made up minds to leave it all behind As the light begins to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill One by one, we'll be running away With our made up minds, to leave it all behind As the light begins to fade, in the city on the hill The city on the hill Come home And the Father's calling still Come home To the city on the hill Come home
I don't know why that song kept going thru my head. Maybe because it talks about judging others and how that is so harmful and hurtful. Maybe because it is so important to respect our differences, especially as the body of CHRIST. I actually pulled this post for a few days, I didn't like what I had writen, it felt wrong, and didn't really express what I had been thinking. I have a lot of friends and family who aren't Christians. I love them dearly, and want nothing more than for them to come to CHRIST, but am I being the kind of witness that shows them what it is to be a follower of CHRIST? Do they see HIS love and mercy and grace in the way I live my life? Or do they see judgement and hypocrisy? I hope it is the former!! I hope that when they look at me and the way I live my life they feel a hunger to know HIM, that they see HIS light shining in me.
LORD, help me to see the beautiful individuality in each of Your children. Help me not to judge and run away from Your plan and Your light. Please let others see YOU, and YOUR light in the way I live my life. In JESUS' name. Amen
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Voice of Truth
Here is another Casting Crowns song called 'Voice Of Truth'
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=6GK7NNNX (the link to a really cute video on godtube) lyrics compliments of elyrics.
Oh what I would do to have The kind of faith it takes To climb out of this boat I'm in On to the crashing waves To step out of my comfort zone Into the realm of the unknown Where Jesus is And He's holding out His hand But the waves are calling out my name And they laugh at me Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed The waves they keep on telling me Time and time again "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win!" But the voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me I would choose to listen and believe the voice of truth Oh what I would do to have The kind of strength it takes To stand before a giant With just a sling and a stone Surrounded by the sound Of a thousand warriors Shaking in their armor Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand But the giant's calling out my name And he laughs at me Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed The giant keeps on telling me Time and time again "Boy you'll never win!You'll never win!" But the voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me The voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me I would choose to listen and believe I would choose to listen and believe the voice of truth The voice of truth
I have loved this song since I first heard it, but lately it has taken on new significance. It seems like everywhere I turn, GOD is showing me something. I have been challenged in the last year or so to leave my 'comfort zone'. I have gotten a little more ok with leaving that comfortable place, but something was holding me back. So GOD gave me the tools I needed to work towards being more secure and confident. I have dealt with some health issues that have, at times, been very scary. But, a while back, GOD made sure I learned about the whole 'breathing prayer' thing, and that has helped immeasurably, calming me when I thought that panic would overwhelm me. I haven't heard HIS voice audibly, but it's still there, in the words of a friend, the books and sermons that came at just the right time, in a tangible calm at a moment of fear and panic. HE is calling out to me not to be afraid, not to worry, not to listen to the other 'voices', and to trust in HIM. Listening to HIS voice only, I can ignore the 'waves' of doubt and failure, and slay that 'giant' of fear and insecurity.
Lord, help me to keep focusing only on Your voice. Thank YOU for Your faithfulness in speaking the truth to me in all things, and for continuing to work in my life. And thank YOU for all those who share their gifts with songs like these!! In JESUS' name, Amen
http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=6GK7NNNX (the link to a really cute video on godtube) lyrics compliments of elyrics.
Oh what I would do to have The kind of faith it takes To climb out of this boat I'm in On to the crashing waves To step out of my comfort zone Into the realm of the unknown Where Jesus is And He's holding out His hand But the waves are calling out my name And they laugh at me Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed The waves they keep on telling me Time and time again "Boy, you'll never win! You'll never win!" But the voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me I would choose to listen and believe the voice of truth Oh what I would do to have The kind of strength it takes To stand before a giant With just a sling and a stone Surrounded by the sound Of a thousand warriors Shaking in their armor Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand But the giant's calling out my name And he laughs at me Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed The giant keeps on telling me Time and time again "Boy you'll never win!You'll never win!" But the voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me The voice of truth tells me a different story The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!" And the voice of truth says, "This is for My glory" Out of all the voices calling out to me I would choose to listen and believe I would choose to listen and believe the voice of truth The voice of truth
I have loved this song since I first heard it, but lately it has taken on new significance. It seems like everywhere I turn, GOD is showing me something. I have been challenged in the last year or so to leave my 'comfort zone'. I have gotten a little more ok with leaving that comfortable place, but something was holding me back. So GOD gave me the tools I needed to work towards being more secure and confident. I have dealt with some health issues that have, at times, been very scary. But, a while back, GOD made sure I learned about the whole 'breathing prayer' thing, and that has helped immeasurably, calming me when I thought that panic would overwhelm me. I haven't heard HIS voice audibly, but it's still there, in the words of a friend, the books and sermons that came at just the right time, in a tangible calm at a moment of fear and panic. HE is calling out to me not to be afraid, not to worry, not to listen to the other 'voices', and to trust in HIM. Listening to HIS voice only, I can ignore the 'waves' of doubt and failure, and slay that 'giant' of fear and insecurity.
Lord, help me to keep focusing only on Your voice. Thank YOU for Your faithfulness in speaking the truth to me in all things, and for continuing to work in my life. And thank YOU for all those who share their gifts with songs like these!! In JESUS' name, Amen
Thursday, January 5, 2012
My 'GOD moment' for today
I have been seeing GOD's workings in my life a lot lately, and today it was especially obvious that HE is right there with me. I had to have a lump checked, and I was very scared. On the way to the hospital I really started to panic, and couldn't get ahold of anyone on the cell phone, so I started doing the 'breath prayer'. If you don't know what that is, it goes like this: breathe in, saying (or thinking) whatever name for GOD you want to use. Breathe out, saying what you need. By the time I got to the hospital I was noticably calmer, and by the time I was having the test done, I felt calm and relaxed. I know it seems like a little thing, but I really felt like GOD was filling me up with HIS peace and strength. Thankfully, the results looked good, and in the words of the technitian, "nothing looked scary". I have to wait until my doctor's office reviews the report, and I may need more tests to be sure everything is ok, but GOD will get me through whatever I need to face, with HIS strength and peace.
Thank YOU GOD, for filling me yet again with Your strength and peace. Thank YOU too, showing me that YOU are always listening to my prayers, and answering them perfectly. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Thank YOU GOD, for filling me yet again with Your strength and peace. Thank YOU too, showing me that YOU are always listening to my prayers, and answering them perfectly. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
"Glory Ache"
I get an email devotional called "Girlfriends in GOD", and today the topic was about feeling like something was missing in our walk with GOD. She called it the "Glory Ache". Did you ever feel like amid the busyness of being servants of GOD, something was still missing? Even with all the activity of serving HIM, you still felt like HE was distant? Then the reading at the evening church service tonight was Psalm 19:7-10 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
8The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
10More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. The message was to make time, and make it a priority to spend time in GOD's word everyday. Not as an item low on the 'to do' list. Have you ever felt like you 'miss' HIM? Like you would miss a dear friend you hadn't seen in too long? I have. Every so often I have this overwhelming emptiness, like a part of me is not where it belongs, like I need to reconnect with a vital part of me. Now I have a word for it, glory ache. The cool thing is, HE is never far away, it's just that I need to slow down and stop 'doing' for a minute so I can feel HIM again. I need to stop trying so hard to 'bless' the world around me (and probably failing anyway because I am spreading myself too thin), and let HIM bless me instead. I need to let HIM me fill me up so I have something to give. So how can I connect with HIM and fill that 'glory ache'?
*read my Bible, not just for study, but to hear what HE wants me to know that day
*pray. Be still and let HIM speak to my heart.
*this blog! I think I have given HIS word and HIS call more deliberate thought when trying to come up with posts than I do if I don't have the goal of making a post that makes some sense.
LORD, please help me to be still and feel Your presence. Help me to focus on YOU and Your word, not on the busyness of my faith, but the stillness. I know that the serving is important, but it's not what will fill that 'glory ache', only connect with YOU will fill that. Thank YOU for being patient with me as I navigate my faith and make my way closer to YOU. I love YOU!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
8The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
10More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. The message was to make time, and make it a priority to spend time in GOD's word everyday. Not as an item low on the 'to do' list. Have you ever felt like you 'miss' HIM? Like you would miss a dear friend you hadn't seen in too long? I have. Every so often I have this overwhelming emptiness, like a part of me is not where it belongs, like I need to reconnect with a vital part of me. Now I have a word for it, glory ache. The cool thing is, HE is never far away, it's just that I need to slow down and stop 'doing' for a minute so I can feel HIM again. I need to stop trying so hard to 'bless' the world around me (and probably failing anyway because I am spreading myself too thin), and let HIM bless me instead. I need to let HIM me fill me up so I have something to give. So how can I connect with HIM and fill that 'glory ache'?
*read my Bible, not just for study, but to hear what HE wants me to know that day
*pray. Be still and let HIM speak to my heart.
*this blog! I think I have given HIS word and HIS call more deliberate thought when trying to come up with posts than I do if I don't have the goal of making a post that makes some sense.
LORD, please help me to be still and feel Your presence. Help me to focus on YOU and Your word, not on the busyness of my faith, but the stillness. I know that the serving is important, but it's not what will fill that 'glory ache', only connect with YOU will fill that. Thank YOU for being patient with me as I navigate my faith and make my way closer to YOU. I love YOU!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
The Heavens Declare the Glory of GOD
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge Psalm 19:1,2
This is a picture taken by duckling #1. She is an amazing photographer! GOD had gifted her with an eye for beauty, and the talent to share it, whether it is drawing, photography, writing, or crafty stuff. She does not get this from me! Some of the things that she has created amaze me, and she is so non-chalant about it, 'oh, it's easy Mom, you just draw a few lines and there it is'. Hmm. If only it were that easy! I am so proud of her, and thrilled that she uses the gifts GOD gave her to bless us in so many ways. I love you biggest duckling!!
New Year Blessing
A New Year's blessing
May God make your year a happy one!
Not by shielding you from all sorrow and pain,
But by strengthening you to bear it as it comes;
Not by making your path easy,
But by making you sturdy to travel any path;
Not by taking hardships from you,
But by taking fear from your heart;
Not by granting you unbroken sunshine,
But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows;
Not by making your life always pleasant,
But by showing you when people and their causes need you most,
and by making you eager to be there to help.
God’s love, peace, hope, and joy to you for the year ahead.
—Author unknown
This poem was in our church's newsletter, and I love it. Before I knew CHRIST I had this picture of GOD as making the lives of believers perfect. They never got sick, they were never afraid, they never had troubles to deal with, and they always knew what they should be doing. (can you tell I didn't know many believers? At least not well) I wanted that. I grew up in a broken home, in many ways. My parents divorced just as I was going into middle school, and it was really hard for me. I wanted what those Christians had that made their lives seem so perfect. So when I had an opportunity to go to church for Sunday School I went. But I didn't find the 'magic button' that I knew had to be there somewhere. When I was expecting my first duckling I went to a number of churches trying to find it, nope, not there. I finally ended up at the church we go to now, and honestly, what kept me going back wasn't a 'magic button', but the adoration a few of the members had for my new baby. In the decade plus since, I have come to realize that there is no magic button, and believers' lives aren't perfect. There is pain, and fear, and sickness, and trouble regardless of whether or not you are a follower of JESUS CHRIST, the difference is how we deal with it. I know that, even if I am terrified of how something is going to play out, GOD is next to me every step of the way. HE will give me strength to face whatever trials I have to face, and walk next to me every moment of every day. HE'll even carry me if I need HIM to. The new year is here, and with it, new challenges and trials, and new joys and wonders. I hope that everyone who reads this (all...what, 2 of you:) has a year filled with strength and peace and moments that are filled with the wonder of our awesome GOD. I hope that you see HIS fingerprints all over every day of your lives and feel HIS strength and peace filling you up. Love you all!!!
LORD, please fill all the people I love with Your love and strength. Give them an extra measure of peace and faith, and help them to see Your fingerprints all over their lives. Fill them with a sense of wonder and awe at how amazingly much YOU love them. In JESUS' name, Amen.
May God make your year a happy one!
Not by shielding you from all sorrow and pain,
But by strengthening you to bear it as it comes;
Not by making your path easy,
But by making you sturdy to travel any path;
Not by taking hardships from you,
But by taking fear from your heart;
Not by granting you unbroken sunshine,
But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows;
Not by making your life always pleasant,
But by showing you when people and their causes need you most,
and by making you eager to be there to help.
God’s love, peace, hope, and joy to you for the year ahead.
—Author unknown
This poem was in our church's newsletter, and I love it. Before I knew CHRIST I had this picture of GOD as making the lives of believers perfect. They never got sick, they were never afraid, they never had troubles to deal with, and they always knew what they should be doing. (can you tell I didn't know many believers? At least not well) I wanted that. I grew up in a broken home, in many ways. My parents divorced just as I was going into middle school, and it was really hard for me. I wanted what those Christians had that made their lives seem so perfect. So when I had an opportunity to go to church for Sunday School I went. But I didn't find the 'magic button' that I knew had to be there somewhere. When I was expecting my first duckling I went to a number of churches trying to find it, nope, not there. I finally ended up at the church we go to now, and honestly, what kept me going back wasn't a 'magic button', but the adoration a few of the members had for my new baby. In the decade plus since, I have come to realize that there is no magic button, and believers' lives aren't perfect. There is pain, and fear, and sickness, and trouble regardless of whether or not you are a follower of JESUS CHRIST, the difference is how we deal with it. I know that, even if I am terrified of how something is going to play out, GOD is next to me every step of the way. HE will give me strength to face whatever trials I have to face, and walk next to me every moment of every day. HE'll even carry me if I need HIM to. The new year is here, and with it, new challenges and trials, and new joys and wonders. I hope that everyone who reads this (all...what, 2 of you:) has a year filled with strength and peace and moments that are filled with the wonder of our awesome GOD. I hope that you see HIS fingerprints all over every day of your lives and feel HIS strength and peace filling you up. Love you all!!!
LORD, please fill all the people I love with Your love and strength. Give them an extra measure of peace and faith, and help them to see Your fingerprints all over their lives. Fill them with a sense of wonder and awe at how amazingly much YOU love them. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Called According to HIS purpose
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love GOD, to them who are the called according to HIS purpose Romans 8:28
In a few weeks I am co-leading a service at our church. Our pastor is going to be away and asked a friend and I to take over. My first instict was to panic and say no, but my husband said I should do it, and the pastor said I should, and since I trust them both I agreed. And I wouldn't be doing it alone, my friend has led some of the mid week services, and is good at it, so I figured I would give it a try. The more I thought about it the more reality set in and with it, major panic. The pastor said we should follow the skit we chose with a short personal testimony on how GOD has called us. More panic. Then one day, while shopping online for last minute Christmas gifts, Amazon's recommendations for me included a book by Beth Moore called 'So Long Insecurity'. I bought it, thinking that it might help me not to freak out about the upcoming service. What a blessing! This book was an eyeopener for me. Not only did it put a label on what I have dealt with most of my life, it gave me the tools to respond positively to fears and worries that can limit the ability to serve GOD. GOD took a situation, where I was feeling completely overwhelmed and out of my element, and used it to put me on the path to healing and peace. I'm still very nervous about the service, and I will be glad when it is over, but at least now I am looking forward to it with the knowledge that GOD has 'clothed me in strength and dignity' (Proverbs 31:25) and that even though HE may not have called me to leave everything behind to follow HIM to lands unknown, or preach to a lost people, or choose a new vocation, HE is certainly calling me. Maybe at this time HIS call is simply a call to loose the insecurity that has clung to me for far too long and accept the security, strength and dignity that is my birthright as HIS beloved child. Maybe HE is getting me ready for something bigger, or maybe HE is just setting me free to live life with the joy HE intended for me to. Either way, I know that whatever HE asks me to do, HE will give me the tools I need to do it.
FATHER GOD, thank YOU for giving me the tools I need to live in joy and peace! I look at the events of the past few months and see YOUR fingerprints everywhere. YOUR providence is amazing to me, that YOU care so much for me that YOU put reminders in every part of my life that I am strong and dignified in YOU. YOU see the struggles I face and give me the tools to overcome them, and for that I am so grateful. I know YOU will keep helping me grow and learn and heal, thank YOU for YOUR loving faithfulness. In JESUS' name, Amen
In a few weeks I am co-leading a service at our church. Our pastor is going to be away and asked a friend and I to take over. My first instict was to panic and say no, but my husband said I should do it, and the pastor said I should, and since I trust them both I agreed. And I wouldn't be doing it alone, my friend has led some of the mid week services, and is good at it, so I figured I would give it a try. The more I thought about it the more reality set in and with it, major panic. The pastor said we should follow the skit we chose with a short personal testimony on how GOD has called us. More panic. Then one day, while shopping online for last minute Christmas gifts, Amazon's recommendations for me included a book by Beth Moore called 'So Long Insecurity'. I bought it, thinking that it might help me not to freak out about the upcoming service. What a blessing! This book was an eyeopener for me. Not only did it put a label on what I have dealt with most of my life, it gave me the tools to respond positively to fears and worries that can limit the ability to serve GOD. GOD took a situation, where I was feeling completely overwhelmed and out of my element, and used it to put me on the path to healing and peace. I'm still very nervous about the service, and I will be glad when it is over, but at least now I am looking forward to it with the knowledge that GOD has 'clothed me in strength and dignity' (Proverbs 31:25) and that even though HE may not have called me to leave everything behind to follow HIM to lands unknown, or preach to a lost people, or choose a new vocation, HE is certainly calling me. Maybe at this time HIS call is simply a call to loose the insecurity that has clung to me for far too long and accept the security, strength and dignity that is my birthright as HIS beloved child. Maybe HE is getting me ready for something bigger, or maybe HE is just setting me free to live life with the joy HE intended for me to. Either way, I know that whatever HE asks me to do, HE will give me the tools I need to do it.
FATHER GOD, thank YOU for giving me the tools I need to live in joy and peace! I look at the events of the past few months and see YOUR fingerprints everywhere. YOUR providence is amazing to me, that YOU care so much for me that YOU put reminders in every part of my life that I am strong and dignified in YOU. YOU see the struggles I face and give me the tools to overcome them, and for that I am so grateful. I know YOU will keep helping me grow and learn and heal, thank YOU for YOUR loving faithfulness. In JESUS' name, Amen
Sunday, January 1, 2012
The Power of Words
When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. . James 3:3-5
Our tongues have power. The words they speak have the power to uplift, or tear down. The power to show love, or indicate impatience. The power to make someone feel cherished, cared for, respected, accepted. And the power to make someone feel abandoned, pitied, rejected. Even the tone of our voice can be powerful. It can indicate frustration, love, anger, friendship, patience. For many people, especially those who are 'chronically insecure', words heard are tools used to build walls to keep people out. Every unkind or impatient word they hear is like a brick used to make that wall bigger, and stronger. GOD wants us to lift each other up, encourage each other, there is nothing as healing as the kind words of a friend when you are feeling down: Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.2 Corinthians 13:10-12/Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.1 Thessalonians 5:10-12
LORD, help me to hold my tongue! Help me to only speak words that uplift and encourage those around me. Help me to never give anyone the tools to build up a wall around them. In JESUS' name, Amen
Our tongues have power. The words they speak have the power to uplift, or tear down. The power to show love, or indicate impatience. The power to make someone feel cherished, cared for, respected, accepted. And the power to make someone feel abandoned, pitied, rejected. Even the tone of our voice can be powerful. It can indicate frustration, love, anger, friendship, patience. For many people, especially those who are 'chronically insecure', words heard are tools used to build walls to keep people out. Every unkind or impatient word they hear is like a brick used to make that wall bigger, and stronger. GOD wants us to lift each other up, encourage each other, there is nothing as healing as the kind words of a friend when you are feeling down: Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.2 Corinthians 13:10-12/Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.1 Thessalonians 5:10-12
LORD, help me to hold my tongue! Help me to only speak words that uplift and encourage those around me. Help me to never give anyone the tools to build up a wall around them. In JESUS' name, Amen
Saturday, December 31, 2011
A Little Joy
My brother called last night. They are far enough away that we only see each other a few times a year. This was fine until he had kids.. I love being an aunti. It is second only to being a mommy, and in some ways better (can't spoil your own kids nearly as much as nieces and nephews!). I miss them like crazy. When my hubby's nieces and nephews were small I saw them frequently , a few times a month at least.I loved being a part of their lives. Being a full day's drive away from my niece and nephew is tough, thankfully my brother and sister in law are good about sending pictures, and now that the oldest is talking, whenever they call me they will put her on the phone and she'll chatter away. I understand much of what she says (she is brilliant, her vocabulary is very good for someone so little!). I get to hear all about the snow at her house (it's cold!), who lives in the castle (the princess, the horses, her cousin, tigers), and even get to have tea with her :). Well, last night topped the list of joyful moments... she said 'I love you GuGu'!! (GuGu is Chinese for Aunti). Talk about making my day!! I can't wait to see them again so I can give them big hugs and kisses (and do a little spoiling:)... what? it's my job!)
Thank YOU GOD, for little joys that brighten my day! Thank YOU for the ability to stay in touch with those I love, even though they are far away. Please watch over them and bless them. In JESUS' name, Amen
Thank YOU GOD, for little joys that brighten my day! Thank YOU for the ability to stay in touch with those I love, even though they are far away. Please watch over them and bless them. In JESUS' name, Amen
Friday, December 30, 2011
'The Old Has Gone, The New is Here!'
The end of 2011 is closing in quickly. It's time to review the year past and look toward the year coming. The emails are pouring in, full of questions, challenging us to rate our year. Lists of resolutions are being made with good intentions. Parties are being held to celebrate the 'new' and say goodbye to the 'old'. Isn't that what we do as Christians? Celebrate the 'new' and say goodbye to the 'old'? 2 Corinthians 17 says "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" If we are in CHRIST we aren't the same anymore. We are a new creation in HIM. Gone is the sinful, broken, fallen creature, instead we are a reconciled, forgiven, whole, adopted, loved creation. 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. The best part is, although we welcome in a new year every 12 months, once we give our lives to CHRIST, we don't have to do it again, it's done. We never have to go back to who and what we were before. Oh sure, there is always more work to be done to better resemble HIM, but HE will always see HIS children with the righteousness of CHRIST draped around them like a cloak. A royal cloak.
We love 'The Skit Guys', and they have a great video called 'GOD's Chisel' (here is the link for the video on godtube http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=K7GKLWNX ). All the things we experience are part of GOD's work, making us into HIS masterpiece. It can be so painful, we want it to stop, but it's all part of making us into a new creation. So as we say goodbye to 2011, and welcome in 2012, remember, in CHRIST all things are new! We are a masterpiece, created and perfected by an all knowing, all powerful GOD.
LORD, the past year hasn't always been easy, there were times that I definately didn't feel like a masterpiece, but YOU still see me as one! There were times that fear and insecurity threatened to overwhelm, but YOU held me tight in the palm of YOUR powerful hand. There were times that I felt like I was incapable of being an effective witness for YOU, but YOUR word assures me that YOUR strength is made perfect in my weakness. Thank YOU for working on me, to make me into the original masterpiece YOU made me to be. Thank YOU for looking on me in love, and for not giving up on me. I love YOU!!!!!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
We love 'The Skit Guys', and they have a great video called 'GOD's Chisel' (here is the link for the video on godtube http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=K7GKLWNX ). All the things we experience are part of GOD's work, making us into HIS masterpiece. It can be so painful, we want it to stop, but it's all part of making us into a new creation. So as we say goodbye to 2011, and welcome in 2012, remember, in CHRIST all things are new! We are a masterpiece, created and perfected by an all knowing, all powerful GOD.
LORD, the past year hasn't always been easy, there were times that I definately didn't feel like a masterpiece, but YOU still see me as one! There were times that fear and insecurity threatened to overwhelm, but YOU held me tight in the palm of YOUR powerful hand. There were times that I felt like I was incapable of being an effective witness for YOU, but YOUR word assures me that YOUR strength is made perfect in my weakness. Thank YOU for working on me, to make me into the original masterpiece YOU made me to be. Thank YOU for looking on me in love, and for not giving up on me. I love YOU!!!!!! In JESUS' name, Amen.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
A Time Such as This
One last post about the Esther Bible study (do you want to do it yet... I'm telling you, it's fantastic!!).
At the end of chapter 4 Esther and her cousin Mordecai are communicating back and forth about the threat facing their people, the Jews. King Xerxes' second in command, Haman, had convinced the king to issue an edict, making it law that the Jewish people were to be 'destroyed, killed, and annihilated'. Mordecai points out to Esther in chapter 4,verse 14: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Esther had been put there at that time for a reason. It was no coincidence that Vashti was sent away, or that Xerxes gathered all the young girls, looking for a wife. It was not mere chance that Esther gained favor with the eunechs, or that she pleased Xerxes and that he grew fond of her. GOD put her there for a reason, in HIS timing. And GOD's timing is perfect. Our impatience gets the best of us sometimes and convinces us that HE should hurry up (or maybe wait a little longer!), but the fact of the matter is, HIS timing is unerring. How many times have you had something happen that was just in time? How many times has something seemed like a well placed piece of a puzzle, tying together things that clearly needed connection? I can think of many in my life, just in the last few weeks. From a book popping up on Amazon that was just what I needed in my walk with GOD, to a poem in the church newsletter that really 'hit the spot', to a devotional email that was on a topic I'd been struggling with. GOD's fingerprints all over my life, just where I needed HIM to be, just when I needed HIM to be there, with just the message I needed. HIS timing is so amazing. What more proof is needed that HE loves us, and cares for us? That HE has plans for us ' For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ' Jeremiah 29:11
Lord, thank YOU for Your perfect timing. Thank YOU for all the love and care and protection YOU pour out on us everyday, in YOUR perfect timing. It amazes me that YOU have every detail covered, just to show us that how very very much YOU love us. In JESUS' name, Amen
At the end of chapter 4 Esther and her cousin Mordecai are communicating back and forth about the threat facing their people, the Jews. King Xerxes' second in command, Haman, had convinced the king to issue an edict, making it law that the Jewish people were to be 'destroyed, killed, and annihilated'. Mordecai points out to Esther in chapter 4,verse 14: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" Esther had been put there at that time for a reason. It was no coincidence that Vashti was sent away, or that Xerxes gathered all the young girls, looking for a wife. It was not mere chance that Esther gained favor with the eunechs, or that she pleased Xerxes and that he grew fond of her. GOD put her there for a reason, in HIS timing. And GOD's timing is perfect. Our impatience gets the best of us sometimes and convinces us that HE should hurry up (or maybe wait a little longer!), but the fact of the matter is, HIS timing is unerring. How many times have you had something happen that was just in time? How many times has something seemed like a well placed piece of a puzzle, tying together things that clearly needed connection? I can think of many in my life, just in the last few weeks. From a book popping up on Amazon that was just what I needed in my walk with GOD, to a poem in the church newsletter that really 'hit the spot', to a devotional email that was on a topic I'd been struggling with. GOD's fingerprints all over my life, just where I needed HIM to be, just when I needed HIM to be there, with just the message I needed. HIS timing is so amazing. What more proof is needed that HE loves us, and cares for us? That HE has plans for us ' For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ' Jeremiah 29:11
Lord, thank YOU for Your perfect timing. Thank YOU for all the love and care and protection YOU pour out on us everyday, in YOUR perfect timing. It amazes me that YOU have every detail covered, just to show us that how very very much YOU love us. In JESUS' name, Amen
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Trust in the LORD
I wanted to do another post, and when I decide to do another post I go thru either the Bible and pick something that jumps out at me, or I pick a song that has really 'spoken' to me lately, or a passage from a book or bible study. I also have a bunch of slips of paper with verses on them that were from one of those page a day calenders. (oldest duckling made an awesome collage with the pictures from that calender, and I finally got around to putting it on here!I love it, everytime I look at it I notice something new.). Sometimes I'll pick one of those to ponder in print. So I was just going thru some of those resources, trying to decide which verse to think about today, and this one verse kept popping up. 'Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding' Proverbs 3:5 So I guess maybe that is my verse for today. It's appropriate, it's certainly one area of my faith that I have the most trouble with. Even more than rejoicing, more than being still, more than any of the commandments, this one thing is my biggest weakness. I have to wonder how many of the other things that I struggle with would be resolved if I could truely trust HIM with all my heart. Not just the part that isn't hidden behind a wall. Not just the part that doesn't mind relinquishing control. All my heart. How much easier would it be to deflect Satan's poking if I truely trusted my Father in Heaven to protect me from it? How much easier would it be to do things like speak in church, speak in any group for that matter, if I wasn't scared to death of being rejected or ridiculed, because I trusted that GOD's opinion was the only one worth caring about? How much easier would it be to discern HIS plan for me and actually follow thru with it if I trusted HIS understanding far more than my own? After all, my GOD is bigger than anything this world can throw at me. Anything. There is nothing in this world that GOD won't help me to do, as long as it is HIS will that it be done. In the past few months I have struggled with trying to understand what road HE wants me on. I know that, right now, HE wants me to be homeschooling my children, but in another decade, I'll be done with that job, then what? Where do I go then? I never went to college, so I feel like the world is wide open to whatever HE calls me to. It's an exciting prospect, and a terrifying one at the same time. I am a creature of habit, I don't like change, and as for my box, well let's say... I don't like to stray far from it. Ok, with the help of a friend I have left my box (creeping very slowly some days, kicking and screaming other days), but I'm still resisting too much change. How far would HE take me if I just trusted HIM to use my life for HIS glory? And do I want to go that far? The part of me that looks on HIM and HIS love with awe and wonder would go anywhere and everywhere for HIM. I would do anything HE asked me to do. But that other part, the part that is like a little kid with separation anxiety, clinging to her parent, screaming 'no no no no' is holding onto that box for all I'm worth. I know I need to let go and let GOD, but oh, it is so hard, and so scary.
Father GOD, help me to trust YOU, truely trust YOU, with all my heart. Help me to get rid of that silly box once and for all, and really and truely be open to YOUR plan for me. Help me too, to listen to YOUR voice and discern what it is YOU are asking of me. And thank YOU for those you have placed in my life to help me navigate this path YOU have for me (and maybe give them a little extra patience, they may need it, I can be pretty stubborn sometimes... but I guess you knew that already :). In JESUS' name, Amen
Father GOD, help me to trust YOU, truely trust YOU, with all my heart. Help me to get rid of that silly box once and for all, and really and truely be open to YOUR plan for me. Help me too, to listen to YOUR voice and discern what it is YOU are asking of me. And thank YOU for those you have placed in my life to help me navigate this path YOU have for me (and maybe give them a little extra patience, they may need it, I can be pretty stubborn sometimes... but I guess you knew that already :). In JESUS' name, Amen
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Who Am I?
I love music. I love listening to it, I love playing it, I love singing it. It speaks to me in so many ways, especially when it comes to understanding the complexity of my faith. Here is another song by Casting Crowns called 'Who Am I' again, lyrics courtesy of elyrics and the link to the video on godtube. enjoy :) http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=ZKLG7NNX
Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth Would care to know my name Would care to feel my hurt? Who am I, that the bright and morning star Would choose to light the way For my ever wondering heart? Not because of who I am But because of what You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling And You told me who I am I am Yours, I am Yours Who am I, that the eyes that see our sin Would look on me with love And watch me rise again? Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea Would call out through the rain And calm the storm in me? Not because of who I am But because what of You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling And You told me who I am I am Yours Not because of who I am But because of what You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling You told me who I am I am Yours, I am Yours, I am Yours Whom shall I fear?Whom shall I fear? 'Cause I am Yours, I am Yours
On this day, the day we celebrate the coming of our Lord JESUS as a tiny baby, the perfect gift, many of us are contemplating the real meaning of this season. We are surrounded from October on with secularized Christmas (aka holiday) 'greetings'. From the commercials urging us to hunt down and purchase the 'perfect' gift, to the carols that are played as early as Thanksgiving. From the displays in the stores, to the lights that adorn our neighborhoods. Don't get me wrong, I love the decorations, I love the feeling of having found that 'perfect' gift, I love the music (ok, especially the music). But what I love most is the assurance of 'Who I am' to the creator GOD. I am HIS, not because I am worthy, not because I have 'done it right', but because HE chose me. I don't know why, and I don't need to. All I need to know is that I am HIS, I have nothing to fear, HE will catch me when I fall, HE hears me, HE looks on me in Love, and HE sent HIS only Son, so that I could have peace. Someday I will understand this perfect love, someday I will stand with HIM and be able to comprehend how much HE really does love me. Until then, I will have to trust that I am who HE says I am. I am HIS.
LORD, thank YOU for Your perfect love, thank YOU for hearing my every call, and for catching me. Thank YOU for sending Your Son to save me, and to love me, and to redeem me. YOU are the perfect gift. I love YOU! Amen
Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth Would care to know my name Would care to feel my hurt? Who am I, that the bright and morning star Would choose to light the way For my ever wondering heart? Not because of who I am But because of what You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling And You told me who I am I am Yours, I am Yours Who am I, that the eyes that see our sin Would look on me with love And watch me rise again? Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea Would call out through the rain And calm the storm in me? Not because of who I am But because what of You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling And You told me who I am I am Yours Not because of who I am But because of what You've done Not because of what I've done But because of who You are I am a flower quickly fading Here today and gone tomorrow A wave tossed in the ocean A vapor in the wind Still You hear me when I'm calling Lord You catch me when I'm falling You told me who I am I am Yours, I am Yours, I am Yours Whom shall I fear?Whom shall I fear? 'Cause I am Yours, I am Yours
On this day, the day we celebrate the coming of our Lord JESUS as a tiny baby, the perfect gift, many of us are contemplating the real meaning of this season. We are surrounded from October on with secularized Christmas (aka holiday) 'greetings'. From the commercials urging us to hunt down and purchase the 'perfect' gift, to the carols that are played as early as Thanksgiving. From the displays in the stores, to the lights that adorn our neighborhoods. Don't get me wrong, I love the decorations, I love the feeling of having found that 'perfect' gift, I love the music (ok, especially the music). But what I love most is the assurance of 'Who I am' to the creator GOD. I am HIS, not because I am worthy, not because I have 'done it right', but because HE chose me. I don't know why, and I don't need to. All I need to know is that I am HIS, I have nothing to fear, HE will catch me when I fall, HE hears me, HE looks on me in Love, and HE sent HIS only Son, so that I could have peace. Someday I will understand this perfect love, someday I will stand with HIM and be able to comprehend how much HE really does love me. Until then, I will have to trust that I am who HE says I am. I am HIS.
LORD, thank YOU for Your perfect love, thank YOU for hearing my every call, and for catching me. Thank YOU for sending Your Son to save me, and to love me, and to redeem me. YOU are the perfect gift. I love YOU! Amen
Merry CHRISTmas!!
Merry Christmas!!!
About two thousand years ago, the creator GOD stepped down from HIS throne, and became a tiny baby. HE endured all the joys and trials of humanity, so that when we are on our knees before HIM, with all our joys and trials, HE can truely say 'I know, I feel your pain'. That tiny baby was our GOD, humbled and vulnerable, for us. For us! HE didn't have to do that, HE is all powerful, HE could have saved us without going thru all the difficulties of being us. But HE didn't. HE didn't take the easy way out, HE took the way that would mean the most to us. HE took the way that would allow us to see that HE really does understand. And HE did it all because HE wants us with HIM for eternity. It amazes me that HE has that much love for us, that HE, who created everything with HIS voice, would love me enough to step down from HIS throne, just to get closer to me. That the One who commands the world would love me so much that HE endured fear and brutality, rejection and pain, just to be assured that I would stand before HIM in Heaven someday. What a wonder.
LORD JESUS, Happy Birthday!! Thank YOU for coming closer to us, so that we can know Your love for us. Thank YOU for being willing to leave Heaven and become one of us, so that when we come before YOU, we can know for certain that you feel our pain, our joy, our fear, our humanity. Thank YOU for being the most amazing gift ever given. I love YOU!
About two thousand years ago, the creator GOD stepped down from HIS throne, and became a tiny baby. HE endured all the joys and trials of humanity, so that when we are on our knees before HIM, with all our joys and trials, HE can truely say 'I know, I feel your pain'. That tiny baby was our GOD, humbled and vulnerable, for us. For us! HE didn't have to do that, HE is all powerful, HE could have saved us without going thru all the difficulties of being us. But HE didn't. HE didn't take the easy way out, HE took the way that would mean the most to us. HE took the way that would allow us to see that HE really does understand. And HE did it all because HE wants us with HIM for eternity. It amazes me that HE has that much love for us, that HE, who created everything with HIS voice, would love me enough to step down from HIS throne, just to get closer to me. That the One who commands the world would love me so much that HE endured fear and brutality, rejection and pain, just to be assured that I would stand before HIM in Heaven someday. What a wonder.
LORD JESUS, Happy Birthday!! Thank YOU for coming closer to us, so that we can know Your love for us. Thank YOU for being willing to leave Heaven and become one of us, so that when we come before YOU, we can know for certain that you feel our pain, our joy, our fear, our humanity. Thank YOU for being the most amazing gift ever given. I love YOU!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Love, JESUS
My step sister sent me this poem. I don't know who wrote it, so I can't give them credit, but it was too lovely not to share :)
If you look for Me at Christmas
you won't need a special star-
I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,
I'm right there where you are.
You may not be aware of Me
amid the celebrations-
You'll have to look beyond the stores
and all the decorations.
But if you take a moment
from your list of things to do
and listen to your heart, you'll find
I'm waiting there for you.
You're the one I want to be with,
you're the reason that I came,
And you'll find Me in the stillness
as I'm whispering your name.
Love, Jesus
Christmas isn't about gifts, or trees, or tinsel, or cards. It's about celebrating the best gift ever given. It's about being still and listening for that sweet whisper to your heart that tells you that the creator of the universe loves YOU, came for YOU, and died for YOU. It's about finding the peace in a tiny, fragile baby boy who carries the world on HIS shoulders. It's about knowing that amidst all the trappings of the season lies a child in a manger who wants nothing more than to spend eternity with YOU. I saw a bumper sticker once that said, simply, Wise men still seek HIM. well said :)
If you look for Me at Christmas
you won't need a special star-
I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,
I'm right there where you are.
You may not be aware of Me
amid the celebrations-
You'll have to look beyond the stores
and all the decorations.
But if you take a moment
from your list of things to do
and listen to your heart, you'll find
I'm waiting there for you.
You're the one I want to be with,
you're the reason that I came,
And you'll find Me in the stillness
as I'm whispering your name.
Love, Jesus
Christmas isn't about gifts, or trees, or tinsel, or cards. It's about celebrating the best gift ever given. It's about being still and listening for that sweet whisper to your heart that tells you that the creator of the universe loves YOU, came for YOU, and died for YOU. It's about finding the peace in a tiny, fragile baby boy who carries the world on HIS shoulders. It's about knowing that amidst all the trappings of the season lies a child in a manger who wants nothing more than to spend eternity with YOU. I saw a bumper sticker once that said, simply, Wise men still seek HIM. well said :)
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Rejoice!
I decided I had writen enough posts about fear lately, I need to write about something else, or all my devoted readers would get sick of reading and not come back (hehehe). So I just started looking up random verses until I found something I liked. (Ok, I like the whole book, but this verse jumped at me)
Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is something I have always struggled with, rejoicing in everything. I try to thank GOD everyday for the obvious things in my life; my husband, my kids, that I have the material things necessary for a comfortable life, my friends, my church, health. But when things aren't so comfortable, I'm not always so thankful. I'm sure my 'gentleness' is too often in way too short order, especially if I am feeling stressed. Thank goodness the LORD is forgiving, I only hope those I love are too :). I am learning to find something to rejoice about in every situation, it is a long process, but GOD is patient with me (more patient than I am with myself). Right now in my life I am dealing with some health concerns. Nothing terribly serious, but stuff that definately slows me down and makes life... shall we say, a challenge. BUT, I don't have anything terminal, and for that I rejoice. I don't have anything that will leave me handicapped in any way, and for that I rejoice. I won't require surgery, or special equipment to keep me alive, and for that I rejoice. AND, I have the assurance that, if GOD chooses not to heal me in this life, HE will heal me in the next and I will never have pain, or shortness of breath, or shaking, or dizzyness again. And for that I most certainly rejoice.
LORD, I rejoice. For all the everyday blessings YOU shower on me. For all the things I don't have to worry about. For all the things YOU allow me to experience that will help me to grow and learn and come closer to YOU. I rejoice that my trials are really so small and insignificant compared to what some people have to deal with. I rejoice that I have doctors and medicine available to me to help me be healthier. I rejoice that YOU are there to listen to my prayers and guard my heart and mind through YOUR beloved Son! In HIS name, Amen
Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This is something I have always struggled with, rejoicing in everything. I try to thank GOD everyday for the obvious things in my life; my husband, my kids, that I have the material things necessary for a comfortable life, my friends, my church, health. But when things aren't so comfortable, I'm not always so thankful. I'm sure my 'gentleness' is too often in way too short order, especially if I am feeling stressed. Thank goodness the LORD is forgiving, I only hope those I love are too :). I am learning to find something to rejoice about in every situation, it is a long process, but GOD is patient with me (more patient than I am with myself). Right now in my life I am dealing with some health concerns. Nothing terribly serious, but stuff that definately slows me down and makes life... shall we say, a challenge. BUT, I don't have anything terminal, and for that I rejoice. I don't have anything that will leave me handicapped in any way, and for that I rejoice. I won't require surgery, or special equipment to keep me alive, and for that I rejoice. AND, I have the assurance that, if GOD chooses not to heal me in this life, HE will heal me in the next and I will never have pain, or shortness of breath, or shaking, or dizzyness again. And for that I most certainly rejoice.
LORD, I rejoice. For all the everyday blessings YOU shower on me. For all the things I don't have to worry about. For all the things YOU allow me to experience that will help me to grow and learn and come closer to YOU. I rejoice that my trials are really so small and insignificant compared to what some people have to deal with. I rejoice that I have doctors and medicine available to me to help me be healthier. I rejoice that YOU are there to listen to my prayers and guard my heart and mind through YOUR beloved Son! In HIS name, Amen
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Engraved on HIS palm
My friends and I are nearing the end of our study on the book of Esther. Each week has had a 'it's tough being a woman...' statement, and the past two weeks we have been learning what scriptures we can use to counter those statements. A few weeks ago the statement was 'It's tough being a woman in the tight fist of fear'. Fear can be so immobilizing, so overwhelming that it can keep us from seeing reason. It can make it hard for us to follow GOD's plan for us, stopping us in our tracks, even when we can see that our fear is unreasonable and illogical. But we are in an even tighter grip than any fear could ever hold us. Isaiah 49:16 says "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands" Picture holding something in your hand so tightly that it leaves it's imprint in your hand. GOD is holding us in HIS hands so tightly that we are engraved on HIS palm. Forever. And nothing can change that, not even overwhelming fear . Romans 8:31 says "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?".GOD is for us! Fear and insecurity may slow us down, even stop us in our tracks for a time, but it won't win! Hopefully, the knowledge of that truth will give us the courage to push past the fear and push towards HIM and HIS plan for us. Hopefully, it will give us the strength to 'flick' Satan away from us when he plays on our fears. And hopefully, it will give us peace when we so need it.
Lord, YOU know my heart. YOU know the plans YOU have for me. Please help me push past fear and doubt and find my way closer to YOU. Please give me peace and courage. Please give me strength and remind me that I am YOURS and that YOU are for me, so no one, and no thing can triumph against me, for I am engraved on YOUR powerful hand. In JESUS' name. Amen.
Lord, YOU know my heart. YOU know the plans YOU have for me. Please help me push past fear and doubt and find my way closer to YOU. Please give me peace and courage. Please give me strength and remind me that I am YOURS and that YOU are for me, so no one, and no thing can triumph against me, for I am engraved on YOUR powerful hand. In JESUS' name. Amen.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Somewhere in the Middle
Here is another song by Casting Crowns (lyrics from elyrics.com) and the link to the video http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=DL7777NX. It is another of my favorites.
Somewhere between the hot and the cold Somewhere between the new and the old Somewhere between who I am and who I used to be Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Somewhere between the wrong and the right Somewhere between the darkness and the light Somewhere between who I was and who you're making me Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender 'Cause I'm losing all control Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow land We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Are we caught in the middle? Somewhere between my heart and my hands Somewhere between my faith and my plans Somewhere between the safety of the boat and the crashing waves Somewhere between a whisper and the Lord Somewhere between the altar and the door Somewhere between contented peace and always wanting more Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender 'Cause I'm losing all control Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow end We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow land We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Are we caught in the middle? Lord, I feel You in this place And I know You're by my side Loving me even on these nights When I am caught in the the middle Caught in the middle
I am finding myself caught in the middle. Just as in the song, I am somewhere between HIS will for me and mine. My will is to be comfortable, serving HIM, but doing it comfortably. HIS will is that I would stretch myself, get out of the comfortable and trust in HIM, growing in my faith. HE wants to challenge me, change me. I want to stay in my safe 'box' where I know what to expect and go about my merry way, singing my hymns and thinking that is enough, after all, I'm worshiping HIM... I love HIM!! The thing is, do we want a GOD who is content to leave us where we are? Broken and fearful and doubtful? Or do we want a GOD who will take us through the fire of life, allowing it to purify and shape us into an image of HIM, so that when the world sees us, it sees HIS love, and HIS strength, and HIS mercy, and HIS grace? We can't truely become new creations in CHRIST if we aren't willing to allow HIM to work in us and change our hearts. It is scary, and painful, and definately not easy. I have always been the kind of person who worries. Worry about whether I will do things right, worry about whether I will upset or offend or annoy someone. Satan sees that and uses it (or tries to) to his advantage. 'Hmmm, working on getting out of your box huh? well, maybe you shouldn't, maybe you won't, maybe you can't, did you think about that? Maybe you are being a whiner, a wimp, maybe you are demanding too much of those around you who are trying to help you do this. maybe.maybe.maybe.' Well, the Bible says that I can do all things through CHRIST who gives me strength, so what am I worried about? That I will fail HIM? I can't, if I trust HIM. HE doesn't expect me to be perfect, or to change the whole world. HE expects me to follow where HE leads me, and do everything I do for HIS glory.
LORD, please pull me out of the middle. I want to serve YOU, help me do that without fear or worry or doubt. Help me see that YOU will not let me fall, YOU will not let me succumb to the trap Satan has laid for me. Make in me a new creation LORD. Help me to remember that YOU are holding onto me and will Never let go! In JESUS' name, Amen.
Somewhere between the hot and the cold Somewhere between the new and the old Somewhere between who I am and who I used to be Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Somewhere between the wrong and the right Somewhere between the darkness and the light Somewhere between who I was and who you're making me Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender 'Cause I'm losing all control Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow land We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Are we caught in the middle? Somewhere between my heart and my hands Somewhere between my faith and my plans Somewhere between the safety of the boat and the crashing waves Somewhere between a whisper and the Lord Somewhere between the altar and the door Somewhere between contented peace and always wanting more Somewhere in the middle you'll find me Just how close can I get, Lord, to my surrender 'Cause I'm losing all control Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow end We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Fearless warriors in a picket fence Reckless abandon wrapped in common sense Deep-water faith in the shallow land We are caught in the middle With eyes wide open to the differences The God we want and the God who is But will we trade our dreams for His Or are we caught in the middle? Are we caught in the middle? Lord, I feel You in this place And I know You're by my side Loving me even on these nights When I am caught in the the middle Caught in the middle
I am finding myself caught in the middle. Just as in the song, I am somewhere between HIS will for me and mine. My will is to be comfortable, serving HIM, but doing it comfortably. HIS will is that I would stretch myself, get out of the comfortable and trust in HIM, growing in my faith. HE wants to challenge me, change me. I want to stay in my safe 'box' where I know what to expect and go about my merry way, singing my hymns and thinking that is enough, after all, I'm worshiping HIM... I love HIM!! The thing is, do we want a GOD who is content to leave us where we are? Broken and fearful and doubtful? Or do we want a GOD who will take us through the fire of life, allowing it to purify and shape us into an image of HIM, so that when the world sees us, it sees HIS love, and HIS strength, and HIS mercy, and HIS grace? We can't truely become new creations in CHRIST if we aren't willing to allow HIM to work in us and change our hearts. It is scary, and painful, and definately not easy. I have always been the kind of person who worries. Worry about whether I will do things right, worry about whether I will upset or offend or annoy someone. Satan sees that and uses it (or tries to) to his advantage. 'Hmmm, working on getting out of your box huh? well, maybe you shouldn't, maybe you won't, maybe you can't, did you think about that? Maybe you are being a whiner, a wimp, maybe you are demanding too much of those around you who are trying to help you do this. maybe.maybe.maybe.' Well, the Bible says that I can do all things through CHRIST who gives me strength, so what am I worried about? That I will fail HIM? I can't, if I trust HIM. HE doesn't expect me to be perfect, or to change the whole world. HE expects me to follow where HE leads me, and do everything I do for HIS glory.
LORD, please pull me out of the middle. I want to serve YOU, help me do that without fear or worry or doubt. Help me see that YOU will not let me fall, YOU will not let me succumb to the trap Satan has laid for me. Make in me a new creation LORD. Help me to remember that YOU are holding onto me and will Never let go! In JESUS' name, Amen.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Home
Today the kids and I went with a bunch of people from church to sing carols at a nursing home. As we all stood there singing I looked around at these people who have become so dear to me. They aren't just faces in the congregation, they are my family. From the lady I stand next to in the choir, to the man who sings such beautiful solos and his dear sweet wife, the friend who does Bible study with me, another friend who has encouraged me and helped me see GOD's presence and call in my life, the mom of a friend who has gone on to heaven already, the man who was a firefighter like my great uncle, and all the others. They are all so dear to me that it brings tears to my eyes, how wonderful GOD is that HE put these wonderful people in my life. They make my church a home. It isn't just a place to listen to hymns and sermons, it is a place where I am welcome, and loved, and accepted. It is a place where I can grow in my faith, and be filled spiritually. When I walk thru those doors I am filled with peace, my soul is filled, and I am whole. What a blessing.
Lord, I can never thank you enough for putting me at my church home. Thank you for all the people who make that church more than a building to enter each week, they make it home. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Lord, I can never thank you enough for putting me at my church home. Thank you for all the people who make that church more than a building to enter each week, they make it home. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Nothing!
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to seperate us from the love of GOD, which is in CHRIST JESUS our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
There are so many things in this world that can make us feel separated from GOD and HIS peace. But if we have accepted JESUS as our personal Savior, nothing can take us away from HIS salvation. Not fear, not depression, not sickness, not mistakes, not doubt, not overly critical family, not feelings of insecurity or insufficiency. Nothing. Once our name is written in that Heavenly Book, it is there forever. Satan will try to convince us that he is right and that we are never going to be effective for GOD's kingdom, but he is a deciever and a liar and a theif. He would steal our joy and our peace, if we let him. But he can NEVER steal our salvation, our place in GOD's Heavenly home! JESUS already has our place ready for us, HE is already there, ready to welcome us home with open arms and rejoicing! Ginny Owens has a song called "True Story" one of the lines in the song is "YOU see my imperfections/Still YOU say I'm a masterpiece/A marvolous reflection/of YOURSELF in me" When we give our lives over to CHRIST, GOD doesn't see our imperfections, HE sees CHRIST in us! Even when we are at our lowest, HE still looks at us and sees HIS perfect Son.
Thank YOU LORD, for holding on so tight that we can be assured that YOU will NEVER let go, even when we are unable to hold on to YOU. Thank YOU for not letting our fears and mistakes and insufficeincies separate us from YOU and Your love and grace. Thank YOU for showing us that Satan is wrong and YOU are the Way, the Truth and the Life. I love YOU!!!! Amen
There are so many things in this world that can make us feel separated from GOD and HIS peace. But if we have accepted JESUS as our personal Savior, nothing can take us away from HIS salvation. Not fear, not depression, not sickness, not mistakes, not doubt, not overly critical family, not feelings of insecurity or insufficiency. Nothing. Once our name is written in that Heavenly Book, it is there forever. Satan will try to convince us that he is right and that we are never going to be effective for GOD's kingdom, but he is a deciever and a liar and a theif. He would steal our joy and our peace, if we let him. But he can NEVER steal our salvation, our place in GOD's Heavenly home! JESUS already has our place ready for us, HE is already there, ready to welcome us home with open arms and rejoicing! Ginny Owens has a song called "True Story" one of the lines in the song is "YOU see my imperfections/Still YOU say I'm a masterpiece/A marvolous reflection/of YOURSELF in me" When we give our lives over to CHRIST, GOD doesn't see our imperfections, HE sees CHRIST in us! Even when we are at our lowest, HE still looks at us and sees HIS perfect Son.
Thank YOU LORD, for holding on so tight that we can be assured that YOU will NEVER let go, even when we are unable to hold on to YOU. Thank YOU for not letting our fears and mistakes and insufficeincies separate us from YOU and Your love and grace. Thank YOU for showing us that Satan is wrong and YOU are the Way, the Truth and the Life. I love YOU!!!! Amen
"The Christian's Position"
Following (in bold) is an entry in the 'Days of Praise' put out by the Institute for Creation Institute for January 22, 2012.
The Christian's Position
"According as HE hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world" Ephesians 1:4
The search for identity and meaning can drive one to great successes or tragic failures. For the Christian, however, the question is answered throughout Ephesians.
We are chosen! We are selected as a favorite out of many [who] are called (Matthew 22:14) out of the world" (John 15:19) What a privilege! We are God's choice to bear HIS name, represent HIS cause, and share HIS glory throughout eternity.
In fact, we are "predestined [previous boundaries set]... unto the adoption of children by JESUS CHRIST to Himself" (Ephesians 1:5). And "if children, then heirs; heirs of GOD, and joint heirs with CHRIST" (Romans 8:17)
Futhermore, we have been "accepted in the beloved" (Ephesians 1:6) That word, "accepted" is a specialized form of the word most often translated "grace." We have been "graced" by Almighty GOD, who has set absolute boundaries around our lives and made us HIS children. We were purchased "through HIS blood" (v7) "that HE redeem us from all iniquity, and purify into himself a peculiar [that is, 'precious'] people, zealous of good works (Titus 2:14).
Moreover, we are forgiven (Ephesians 1:7)! Our sins are "covered" (Psalm 32:1); "cast" behind GOD's back (Isaiah 38:17); removed "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12); remember[ed]...no more (Jeremiah 31:34); and cleansed "from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
Hallelujah! Since we are GOD's children, we should have no identity crisis. We are a chosen, predestined, accepted, redeemed, forgiven, and holy people. Finally, we are predestined "to be conformed to the image of HIS Son" (Romans 8:29) HMM III
As Christians we are not immune to times of trial and doubt. In fact, when the enemy sees us drawing closer to GOD, he will attack. These attacks take many forms, often coming in the form of paralyzing fear of some sort. But the Bible tells us that Satan is WRONG!! GOD tells us that we are HIS. And always will be. No exceptions. HE will still love us if we mess up. HE will still love us even if others don't. And HE will still use us to help others know HIM, even if we are afraid. As long as we trust HIM. Our pastor said something a few weeks ago that really stuck with me. "when we've done all we can, GOD will do what we can't". I like that. I can only do so much, but HE can do ANYTHING!!! HE can hold us up, when we would otherwise faint from fear or doubt. HE can give us strength when we are at our weakest. HE can give us peace when we are in the midst of our darkest moments. HE can fill us with love so we feel we will burst, even when we feel adrift and lonely. And HE can show us HIS will even when we feel blind to HIS presence in our lives.
Lord, thank you for doing what I can't. Thank you for showing me your grace over and over again, especially when I am in the grips of fear. Thank you for reminding me that YOU are the authority on who I am and where I am going. Please help me to always trust in YOUR plan for me, and the truth that YOU will always be there to hold me up through every path you lead me on. Please protect me from the enemy and his lies, and remind me daily that I am YOURS, now and forever. In JESUS' name, Amen.
The Christian's Position
"According as HE hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world" Ephesians 1:4
The search for identity and meaning can drive one to great successes or tragic failures. For the Christian, however, the question is answered throughout Ephesians.
We are chosen! We are selected as a favorite out of many [who] are called (Matthew 22:14) out of the world" (John 15:19) What a privilege! We are God's choice to bear HIS name, represent HIS cause, and share HIS glory throughout eternity.
In fact, we are "predestined [previous boundaries set]... unto the adoption of children by JESUS CHRIST to Himself" (Ephesians 1:5). And "if children, then heirs; heirs of GOD, and joint heirs with CHRIST" (Romans 8:17)
Futhermore, we have been "accepted in the beloved" (Ephesians 1:6) That word, "accepted" is a specialized form of the word most often translated "grace." We have been "graced" by Almighty GOD, who has set absolute boundaries around our lives and made us HIS children. We were purchased "through HIS blood" (v7) "that HE redeem us from all iniquity, and purify into himself a peculiar [that is, 'precious'] people, zealous of good works (Titus 2:14).
Moreover, we are forgiven (Ephesians 1:7)! Our sins are "covered" (Psalm 32:1); "cast" behind GOD's back (Isaiah 38:17); removed "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12); remember[ed]...no more (Jeremiah 31:34); and cleansed "from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
Hallelujah! Since we are GOD's children, we should have no identity crisis. We are a chosen, predestined, accepted, redeemed, forgiven, and holy people. Finally, we are predestined "to be conformed to the image of HIS Son" (Romans 8:29) HMM III
As Christians we are not immune to times of trial and doubt. In fact, when the enemy sees us drawing closer to GOD, he will attack. These attacks take many forms, often coming in the form of paralyzing fear of some sort. But the Bible tells us that Satan is WRONG!! GOD tells us that we are HIS. And always will be. No exceptions. HE will still love us if we mess up. HE will still love us even if others don't. And HE will still use us to help others know HIM, even if we are afraid. As long as we trust HIM. Our pastor said something a few weeks ago that really stuck with me. "when we've done all we can, GOD will do what we can't". I like that. I can only do so much, but HE can do ANYTHING!!! HE can hold us up, when we would otherwise faint from fear or doubt. HE can give us strength when we are at our weakest. HE can give us peace when we are in the midst of our darkest moments. HE can fill us with love so we feel we will burst, even when we feel adrift and lonely. And HE can show us HIS will even when we feel blind to HIS presence in our lives.
Lord, thank you for doing what I can't. Thank you for showing me your grace over and over again, especially when I am in the grips of fear. Thank you for reminding me that YOU are the authority on who I am and where I am going. Please help me to always trust in YOUR plan for me, and the truth that YOU will always be there to hold me up through every path you lead me on. Please protect me from the enemy and his lies, and remind me daily that I am YOURS, now and forever. In JESUS' name, Amen.
Monday, December 5, 2011
The Well
Another Casting Crowns song from their new album. Lyrics complements of elyrics.com
(here is the link to the video on Godtube http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=F0290CNU )
Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, I have what you need, But you keep on searchin, I've done all the work, But you keep on workin, When you're runnin on empty, And you can't find the remedy, Just come to the well.You can spend your whole life, Chasin what's missing, But that empty inside, It just ain't gonna listen.When nothing can satisfy, And the world leaves you high and dry, Just come to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the wellSo bring me your heart, No matter how broken, Just come as you are, When your last prayer is spoken, Just rest in my arms a while, You'll feel the change my child, When you come to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the well Yeah Leave it all behind The world will try, but it can never fill... leave it all behind And now that you're full, Of love beyond measure, Your joy's gonna flow, Like a stream in the desert, Soon all the world will see that living water is found in me, Cuz you came to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the well Outro: leave it all behind, leave it all behind... repeat
When we feel lost, or empty, or like something is missing, HE is there ready to fill us up. We just have to be willing to let HIM.
LORD JESUS, please fill me up, please pour Your peace and love and joy and strength into me until all the empty places are overflowing. Please take my burdens away from me and hold me in YOUR arms to rest awhile. In Your precious name I pray. Amen
(here is the link to the video on Godtube http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=F0290CNU )
Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, Leave it all behind, I have what you need, But you keep on searchin, I've done all the work, But you keep on workin, When you're runnin on empty, And you can't find the remedy, Just come to the well.You can spend your whole life, Chasin what's missing, But that empty inside, It just ain't gonna listen.When nothing can satisfy, And the world leaves you high and dry, Just come to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the wellSo bring me your heart, No matter how broken, Just come as you are, When your last prayer is spoken, Just rest in my arms a while, You'll feel the change my child, When you come to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the well Yeah Leave it all behind The world will try, but it can never fill... leave it all behind And now that you're full, Of love beyond measure, Your joy's gonna flow, Like a stream in the desert, Soon all the world will see that living water is found in me, Cuz you came to the well CHORUS:And all who thirst will thirst no more, And all who search will find what their souls long for, The world will try, but it can never fill, So leave it all behind, and come to the well Outro: leave it all behind, leave it all behind... repeat
When we feel lost, or empty, or like something is missing, HE is there ready to fill us up. We just have to be willing to let HIM.
LORD JESUS, please fill me up, please pour Your peace and love and joy and strength into me until all the empty places are overflowing. Please take my burdens away from me and hold me in YOUR arms to rest awhile. In Your precious name I pray. Amen
Friday, December 2, 2011
Fear NOT
We have another favorite singer, Ginny Owens. I love this song by her called "I Am". It's good to be reminded that some of the people that GOD used to do huge things were terrified, and rightly so. Here are the lyrics, compliments of http://www.christianlyrics.com/ (and the link to the video on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPehO_c1NtE&feature=related&noredirect=1 )
No Lord, he said, you've got the wrong guy.Simple conversation gets me tongue-tied.And you're telling me to speak with a maniac king.or could it be I've lost my mind?And besides, I am weak, don't you want someone strong,To lead them out of Egypt when they've been there so long?And anyway, they won't believe You ever spoke to me.It's not your problem, God replied. And the rest is history.
There's a bigger picture you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.'Cause I am your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you I will show them, I Am.
Now Lord, are you sure? He's just a shepherd boy,Too small for battle gear with a giant to destroy.What on earth can he do with five stones and a sling?It's not your problem, God replied.'Cause I can do anything.
There's a bigger picture you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.'Cause I am your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you, I will show them, I Am the first, I Am the last,I Am the present and the past,I Am tomorrow and today,I Am the only way.
Great Lord, she said, I'm just a simple girl.You say that I will bring your son into the world.How can I understand this thing You're gonna do?It's not your problem, God replied.
'Cause, there's a bigger picture,And you don't have to change the world.I'm your creator, I am working out my plan.And through you, I will show them, There's a bigger picture, you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.I'm your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you, I will show them, I Am.
Some friends and I are doing a Bible study about Esther (awesome study, highly recommend it, by Beth Moore). Did you know that the law in Persia at that time was that if anyone approached the king uninvited they were to be immediatly killed. Not they might be killed. They would be killed, unless the king extended his scepter, his mercy. There were guards standing by, axes at the ready to instantly dispose of anyone brave (or crazy) enough to step before the king. When Esther made the decision to go before her husband, it was not with the thought that she might die, it was with the hope that maybe, if GOD was willing, she might live. Talk about courage and trust. How does one get that kind of courage? Where does it come from? Did you know that the most common command in the Bible is some variation of 'fear not'? It amazes me that before HE spoke a single thing into being, HE knew that fear would be our greatest obstacle. Whether it is fear of being the victim of a crime, fear of losing a job, or fear of speaking in front of a crowd, fear is always an obstacle to something. We can't serve HIM if we are hiding in fear. If Moses had hidden in fear, he wouldn't have had the opportunity to lead his people to the promised land. If David had hidden in fear he wouldn't have conquered the giant. If Mary had hidden in fear, she wouldn't have held GOD in her arms. And if Esther had hidden in fear she would have perished as a Jewess. Oh sure, if they had refused, GOD would have found someone else to use; he gave us free will, but none of us are big enough to thwart HIS plans. GOD was there with them, offering them courage, and they chose to take it. They chose to participate in GOD's plan for HIS people, and because they did, HE used them in amazing ways. Because they chose not to hide in their fear, they were able to see GOD at work for HIS people. What a blessing!
Lord, please give me the courage to let YOU use me in YOUR plan. Please help me to 'fear not' and 'take courage'. Please help me see YOUR plan for my life and not hide in fear from it. In JESUS' name... Amen
No Lord, he said, you've got the wrong guy.Simple conversation gets me tongue-tied.And you're telling me to speak with a maniac king.or could it be I've lost my mind?And besides, I am weak, don't you want someone strong,To lead them out of Egypt when they've been there so long?And anyway, they won't believe You ever spoke to me.It's not your problem, God replied. And the rest is history.
There's a bigger picture you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.'Cause I am your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you I will show them, I Am.
Now Lord, are you sure? He's just a shepherd boy,Too small for battle gear with a giant to destroy.What on earth can he do with five stones and a sling?It's not your problem, God replied.'Cause I can do anything.
There's a bigger picture you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.'Cause I am your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you, I will show them, I Am the first, I Am the last,I Am the present and the past,I Am tomorrow and today,I Am the only way.
Great Lord, she said, I'm just a simple girl.You say that I will bring your son into the world.How can I understand this thing You're gonna do?It's not your problem, God replied.
'Cause, there's a bigger picture,And you don't have to change the world.I'm your creator, I am working out my plan.And through you, I will show them, There's a bigger picture, you can't see.You don't have to change the world, just trust in me.I'm your creator, I am working out my plan,And through you, I will show them, I Am.
Some friends and I are doing a Bible study about Esther (awesome study, highly recommend it, by Beth Moore). Did you know that the law in Persia at that time was that if anyone approached the king uninvited they were to be immediatly killed. Not they might be killed. They would be killed, unless the king extended his scepter, his mercy. There were guards standing by, axes at the ready to instantly dispose of anyone brave (or crazy) enough to step before the king. When Esther made the decision to go before her husband, it was not with the thought that she might die, it was with the hope that maybe, if GOD was willing, she might live. Talk about courage and trust. How does one get that kind of courage? Where does it come from? Did you know that the most common command in the Bible is some variation of 'fear not'? It amazes me that before HE spoke a single thing into being, HE knew that fear would be our greatest obstacle. Whether it is fear of being the victim of a crime, fear of losing a job, or fear of speaking in front of a crowd, fear is always an obstacle to something. We can't serve HIM if we are hiding in fear. If Moses had hidden in fear, he wouldn't have had the opportunity to lead his people to the promised land. If David had hidden in fear he wouldn't have conquered the giant. If Mary had hidden in fear, she wouldn't have held GOD in her arms. And if Esther had hidden in fear she would have perished as a Jewess. Oh sure, if they had refused, GOD would have found someone else to use; he gave us free will, but none of us are big enough to thwart HIS plans. GOD was there with them, offering them courage, and they chose to take it. They chose to participate in GOD's plan for HIS people, and because they did, HE used them in amazing ways. Because they chose not to hide in their fear, they were able to see GOD at work for HIS people. What a blessing!
Lord, please give me the courage to let YOU use me in YOUR plan. Please help me to 'fear not' and 'take courage'. Please help me see YOUR plan for my life and not hide in fear from it. In JESUS' name... Amen
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