We all know “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”, but do we really show it? Why do we cram all or most of our good spirit into a small time frame? It’s like we are saying we can treat people how we want and be unthankful for the rest of the year.
I don’t know about you but I have so much to be thankful for that I can’t say it all in 30 days. Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad we have Thanksgiving but the Bible tells us to give thanks in everything. “Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1Thessalonians 5:18) No sooner than the end of Thanksgiving Day we are focused on who will be getting gifts and what we should buy them. I’m glad I live in a country where I can celebrate my Savior’s birth and give to my loved ones freely.
I’m not going to sit here and write how as Christians we should be thankful and give throughout the year. Nope, we should know that. What I am going to do is issue a challenge. We like new beginnings, a fresh start so to speak and a new year. What if we were to treat each day like that? “Because of the LORD’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!” (Lamentations 3:22-23) My challenge to you is to start each day anew. Start your day seeking God, talk to Him throughout your day, look for ways to give and at the end of the day count your blessings. My friends seek the “babe in the manger”, follow “the star of wonder, the star of light”, and kneel at the cross of Calvary daily. You will see just how different yet wonderful your life will be. Don’t cram being thankful and giving into a month’s time frame. Cram thankfulness and giving into each day. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
Monday, December 30, 2013
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Broken
I had the opportunity today to talk to a very special group of girls. So thankful that God allowed me to take part in their Christmas party. The following post is what I talked about. I had them break clay pots and had a friend break and glue one back together before to demonstrate that God can still use us even when we are broken and let His light shine. I hope you enjoy the read.
We were all created by God. In Genesis God created Adam from dirt. God creates each of us for good to further His kingdom. The devil has a different plan; one to harm you and keep you from God. As you grow God is shaping you into the person He wants you to become. In Isaiah God is called the potter and we are the clay. “Yet Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You are our Potter; we all are the work of Your hands.” (Isaiah 64:8)
As He forms us, life is happening. Each decision we make has consequences either good or bad. As life happens we start going through trials. Someone we love dies, someone mistreats us, we make poor decisions and often times it’s to impress others or just to rebel. Each poor decision “Big” or “Small”; whether it’s made by you or someone close to you, it can leave you hurt and broken. Once you are broken you feel unworthy. You feel unworthy of other liking the “true” you. You certainly don’t feel worthy of someone loving you. So, how could a perfect God love an imperfect, broken person? The Bible tells us God is near to the brokenhearted. “The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
The amazing thing about God’s love is He doesn’t give His love to only those who are worthy. No one is worthy because we are all sinners. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:323) When you accept Jesus Christ as your savior, you and all your brokenness are accepted and made whole. When you lay down all your broken pieces at Jesus’ feet; everything that caused or causes your pain, He will use it for good. “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) God takes your broken pieces and starts putting you back together. You will not be the same after He has finished putting you back together. You will have cracks and scars that we call memories but His light will still shine in you…if you let it.
You are a vessel for Jesus Christ. Your broken pieces, cracks and scars can be used in a great way. We are a lot like broken pots. Once a pot is broken they don’t seem to serve a purpose, but before it broke who knows what it would’ve been used for. The pot could’ve possibly been used to hold a plant to be given to someone who is deathly ill to brighten their day. Maybe it would’ve been used to hold a tomato plant to provide food for a family. Or it could’ve been use to create art. If you take the time to piece it back together, it has a new purpose. The possibilities of its usefulness are endless. You are just like the broken pot. Each person has felt broken at some point in their life, the good news is God takes your broken pieces, puts them back together, accepts you and never leaves your side. No matter how shattered you feel or how many broken pieces you have God will accept you. Once you’re pieced backed together those cracks and pieces become a testimony of where you were and where God has brought you. Don’t be afraid to let God’s light shine in you even if it means others can see your broken pieces. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
I want to leave you with this:
“Now we have this treasure in clay jars, so that this extraordinary power may be from God and not from us. We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9)
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Just As I Am
I had the privilege of talking to a group of ladies from my church this past week. I shared the following message with them and feel like I need to share with you too.
I am. What a powerful statement. Those two small words can pack a big punch. In Exodus God lets Moses know how to answer pharaoh, “I AM WHO I AM.” (Exodus 3:14) In Revelation God uses I am again. “I am the Alpha and the Omega”, says the Lord. (Revelation 1:1) God uses I am to describe himself and so do we. I posted on my blog in May the things that I let define me and I want to share those with you again:
I am: Carolyn and Mark's daughter
Holly and Joel's sister
a granddaughter, niece, and cousin
a little girl without a father
sad
afraid
a teenager without a father
an athlete
a band nerd
rejected
depressed
a college student
a bride without her father to walk her down the aisle
a wife, Nick's wife, Mr. Hardy's wife, the drummer's wife
happy
jealous
David and Val's daughter-in-law
a mother
Alex's mom
a college graduate
Bekah's mom
a teacher
afraid
dealing with a miscarriage
hurt
a disappointment
confused
a church secretary
no longer able to have children
frustrated
alone
remorseful
forgiven
servant
happy
child of God
We tend to define ourselves with emotions and what we do. The best thing about how we see ourselves is The Great I Am doesn’t see us the same way. There are three women in the Bible that I want to talk about. I believe we can relate to at least one of these women if not all three.
The first woman is the woman who suffered from bleeding for twelve years. There was nothing anyone could do to stop the bleeding. Can you imagine the physical pain and toll this woman went through? What about the emotional pain? She obviously hurt and was drained from hemorrhaging. Then you have to think of the pain her heart felt. She was rejected and considered unclean because of her bleeding. I’m sure her “I ams” were ones that described her condition and hurt heart. This woman hurt on so many levels; just like some of us have and/or still do. I don’t know about you but there are times I’d rather have physical pain than emotional pain. I can “deal” with the physical pain better. Here is this woman weak and in desperate need of healing. Does she curl up and say my life is over? No, she knew Jesus was her last chance. She needed to get through the crowd of people to get to Jesus. This woman had so much faith in Jesus she reached out and touched the tassels on His robe. She had so much faith in Jesus healing her she stretched out her arm and touched His; which is on the bottom of His robe. The very instant her hand touched His robe she was healed. Her bleeding stopped and I would imagine her color started to return and her pain was gone. Jesus asked who touched him but no one answered at first. Then this woman afraid dropped to her knees and said, “I did”. Jesus could’ve been angry with her because he knew power left him and he was on his way out of the town. Instead he looked at her and said you are healed. Jesus literally saved her life. You can read the account in Luke 8, if you would like more than my paraphrasing. Are you the woman who reached out to Jesus in all her pain? Are you the one who sought Jesus as your last resort?
Maybe you’re not the woman of faith but instead the woman accused. Have you been brought before others to be accused of something? Most likely you haven’t been accused in a public square. More likely it’s been behind your back or behind closed doors. In these situations you usually don’t have a chance to speak for yourself. The woman accused was brought before Jesus in a public square and was prepared to die for her sins. She was caught in adultery and in those days you were stoned to death for such things. Let’s look at being accused differently for a moment. It hurts to be accused of something, but think of the shame and embarrassment when you are caught red handed. This woman stood face to face with Jesus, the only perfect person to walk this earth, waiting for Him to sentence her to be stoned to death. Instead, Jesus frees her from the death sentence. Here she stands with all of her “I ams” waiting to be condemned. Jesus doesn’t condemn her; instead she walks away a free woman. This story can be found in John 8, if you would like the full story. Maybe you have been accused and it brought you face to face with Jesus. Rest assured if you are alive you are being accused by Satan but Jesus as your savior says, “She is not guilty”. Have you faced Jesus as an accused woman but not condemned?
If you’re not woman one or two maybe you can relate to woman three. The third woman we all know as the woman at the well. You can find her story in John 4. We’ve heard this story so many times we can close our eyes and picture the story when just the title is mentioned. Here is Jesus sitting at a well asking a woman of Samaria for water. The kicker is Samaritans and Jews didn’t “hang out”. My thought when I read this is, this woman is thinking, “what is your problem? You weirdo!” This woman didn’t seek Jesus nor was she brought to Him. She just happened to be at the well going about her life and Jesus was there at the same time. What are the odds she would meet the one man who could change her life for eternity? As their conversation continues and He starts pointing out her marriages (five to be exact) do you think she wonders am I worthy to be in the presence of this man? Her “I ams” are probably pretty lengthy and yet Jesus is taking the time to talk to her and share who He is. He isn’t rude or condemning. He wants her to realize He is the living water and by believing in Him she will thirst no more. She believes and runs off to tell the village about Him. Do you feel you aren’t worthy? Are you the lucky woman who by chance met Jesus?
Not much has changed since the days of the Bible. The woman of faith, the woman accused, and the woman at the well all needed Jesus. They all came to Him by different means and with different needs but they all needed Jesus to save them. We all have different stories of how we met Jesus or maybe you need to find Him now but one thing is for sure we all need Jesus to save us. Jesus was the answer then and is the answer now. Jesus accepted each woman just as they were. He accepts me and all of my “I ams” and He will accept you and all of your “I ams” too. So come just as you are. When we have Jesus as our savior others can’t see our “I ams” but they can see Jesus if you so choose to let your light shine. We will always see our “I ams” they have made us the person we are today, but Jesus is who we should strive to see and be. So the next time you see your “I ams”, remember Jesus is really who defines us. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
I am. What a powerful statement. Those two small words can pack a big punch. In Exodus God lets Moses know how to answer pharaoh, “I AM WHO I AM.” (Exodus 3:14) In Revelation God uses I am again. “I am the Alpha and the Omega”, says the Lord. (Revelation 1:1) God uses I am to describe himself and so do we. I posted on my blog in May the things that I let define me and I want to share those with you again:
I am: Carolyn and Mark's daughter
Holly and Joel's sister
a granddaughter, niece, and cousin
a little girl without a father
sad
afraid
a teenager without a father
an athlete
a band nerd
rejected
depressed
a college student
a bride without her father to walk her down the aisle
a wife, Nick's wife, Mr. Hardy's wife, the drummer's wife
happy
jealous
David and Val's daughter-in-law
a mother
Alex's mom
a college graduate
Bekah's mom
a teacher
afraid
dealing with a miscarriage
hurt
a disappointment
confused
a church secretary
no longer able to have children
frustrated
alone
remorseful
forgiven
servant
happy
child of God
We tend to define ourselves with emotions and what we do. The best thing about how we see ourselves is The Great I Am doesn’t see us the same way. There are three women in the Bible that I want to talk about. I believe we can relate to at least one of these women if not all three.
The first woman is the woman who suffered from bleeding for twelve years. There was nothing anyone could do to stop the bleeding. Can you imagine the physical pain and toll this woman went through? What about the emotional pain? She obviously hurt and was drained from hemorrhaging. Then you have to think of the pain her heart felt. She was rejected and considered unclean because of her bleeding. I’m sure her “I ams” were ones that described her condition and hurt heart. This woman hurt on so many levels; just like some of us have and/or still do. I don’t know about you but there are times I’d rather have physical pain than emotional pain. I can “deal” with the physical pain better. Here is this woman weak and in desperate need of healing. Does she curl up and say my life is over? No, she knew Jesus was her last chance. She needed to get through the crowd of people to get to Jesus. This woman had so much faith in Jesus she reached out and touched the tassels on His robe. She had so much faith in Jesus healing her she stretched out her arm and touched His; which is on the bottom of His robe. The very instant her hand touched His robe she was healed. Her bleeding stopped and I would imagine her color started to return and her pain was gone. Jesus asked who touched him but no one answered at first. Then this woman afraid dropped to her knees and said, “I did”. Jesus could’ve been angry with her because he knew power left him and he was on his way out of the town. Instead he looked at her and said you are healed. Jesus literally saved her life. You can read the account in Luke 8, if you would like more than my paraphrasing. Are you the woman who reached out to Jesus in all her pain? Are you the one who sought Jesus as your last resort?
Maybe you’re not the woman of faith but instead the woman accused. Have you been brought before others to be accused of something? Most likely you haven’t been accused in a public square. More likely it’s been behind your back or behind closed doors. In these situations you usually don’t have a chance to speak for yourself. The woman accused was brought before Jesus in a public square and was prepared to die for her sins. She was caught in adultery and in those days you were stoned to death for such things. Let’s look at being accused differently for a moment. It hurts to be accused of something, but think of the shame and embarrassment when you are caught red handed. This woman stood face to face with Jesus, the only perfect person to walk this earth, waiting for Him to sentence her to be stoned to death. Instead, Jesus frees her from the death sentence. Here she stands with all of her “I ams” waiting to be condemned. Jesus doesn’t condemn her; instead she walks away a free woman. This story can be found in John 8, if you would like the full story. Maybe you have been accused and it brought you face to face with Jesus. Rest assured if you are alive you are being accused by Satan but Jesus as your savior says, “She is not guilty”. Have you faced Jesus as an accused woman but not condemned?
If you’re not woman one or two maybe you can relate to woman three. The third woman we all know as the woman at the well. You can find her story in John 4. We’ve heard this story so many times we can close our eyes and picture the story when just the title is mentioned. Here is Jesus sitting at a well asking a woman of Samaria for water. The kicker is Samaritans and Jews didn’t “hang out”. My thought when I read this is, this woman is thinking, “what is your problem? You weirdo!” This woman didn’t seek Jesus nor was she brought to Him. She just happened to be at the well going about her life and Jesus was there at the same time. What are the odds she would meet the one man who could change her life for eternity? As their conversation continues and He starts pointing out her marriages (five to be exact) do you think she wonders am I worthy to be in the presence of this man? Her “I ams” are probably pretty lengthy and yet Jesus is taking the time to talk to her and share who He is. He isn’t rude or condemning. He wants her to realize He is the living water and by believing in Him she will thirst no more. She believes and runs off to tell the village about Him. Do you feel you aren’t worthy? Are you the lucky woman who by chance met Jesus?
Not much has changed since the days of the Bible. The woman of faith, the woman accused, and the woman at the well all needed Jesus. They all came to Him by different means and with different needs but they all needed Jesus to save them. We all have different stories of how we met Jesus or maybe you need to find Him now but one thing is for sure we all need Jesus to save us. Jesus was the answer then and is the answer now. Jesus accepted each woman just as they were. He accepts me and all of my “I ams” and He will accept you and all of your “I ams” too. So come just as you are. When we have Jesus as our savior others can’t see our “I ams” but they can see Jesus if you so choose to let your light shine. We will always see our “I ams” they have made us the person we are today, but Jesus is who we should strive to see and be. So the next time you see your “I ams”, remember Jesus is really who defines us. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Say Uncle!
“So we called out to Yahweh, the God of our fathers, and the Lord heard our cry and saw our misery, hardship, and oppression.”(Deuteronomy 26:7 HCSB)
Have you ever been in a wrestling match with a sibling or maybe even an adult and they said, “Say Uncle!”? I have, and the whole thought behind say Uncle is you are giving up. The other person has pinned you down and you can’t get out or up from the pin or they are tickling you so much that you’re about to pee on yourself. Oh yes, fond childhood memories of being held to the ground so someone could tickle me until I couldn't breathe. But as we get older we don’t play that game and life is the one pinning us down. Have you ever felt like life was giving you so much you couldn't get up and instead of laughing you were crying? Wave after wave of unexpected circumstances and misery just kept hitting and knocking you back to the ground. You can’t say “Uncle” and you certainly don’t have the strength to stand much less get on your knees. It’s not fun being there and you have two choices…1) curl up in the fetal position or 2) keep fighting against the waves.
Both positions have their good and bad points. Most people are built with one or the other instinct and that is the position they go to first. I’m not here to knock anyone who chooses position one or position two. What I hope to do is shed light on the good in both positions and allow you to assess for yourself what your instinct is. If you are in one of the two positions right now, why are you there and is it time to change positions?
Most people see the fetal position as weak. I see the fetal position as protecting yourself. Why or how is that? Think about it…close your eyes and picture yourself in the fetal position or go ahead and get in that position..just don’t fall asleep. :) You have your head tucked into your chest and your arms are covering your face. Your legs are tucked into your stomach. Therefore, you are protecting your vital organs and your beautiful face from damage. When life’s struggles start hitting us especially the ones that knock you to your knees (i.e. death) you want to curl up. You choose to not let the outside world in and in that sense you are protecting yourself from furthering the hurt you already have. What happens if something else just as traumatic happens when you are still reeling from the first wave of hurt? What do you do? Do you stay in the fetal position, get to your knees, stand? Think on that while I move on to position two.
When life hurls the hurts of this world at you do you stand and face it head on? Some see this as strong while others see this as stubborn or maybe just calloused. The first time you are hit with a hurt you are out to prove you can keep on; you can keep going with the best of them. Then another wave of hurt attacks and this time you throw your arm up to block it, like a boxer protecting his face from a punch heading right between his eyes. The problem is if you stay there too long, your arm blocks your vision. If you are quick and block the force of the hurt and return to standing how many more times can you handle it before you are knocked to your knees?
Both positions are meant to protect your from harm, but did you notice both positions has you on your knees at some point and maybe even more than once. Do you say Uncle to life when it has you down and you can’t get back up? Do you say Uncle to life when the blows keep coming and you’re tired from blocking all the blows? Do you think it’s just mere coincidence that you have an opportunity on your way down to be “on your knees” and on your way back up to be “on your knees”? You have a chance in the midst of your storm; while being knocked down, to be on your knees and instead of saying Uncle you have the chance to cry out JESUS. Then again on your way back up from the storm, either you are still in the storm fighting your way out or praising the one who got you through it, you have another chance to cry out JESUS. “So we called out to Yahweh, the God of our fathers, and the Lord heard our cry and saw our misery, hardship, and oppression.”(Deuteronomy 26:7 HCSB) God hasn't changed since the Old Testament times, when His people cry out He hears.
From the time the first wave hits you and you take a position until you are able to see the light, God is with you and hears and see the tears. The hurt may cause your world to turn pitch black and no words can come to your mouth. It is OK, God is still with you. The worst place I was in I didn't even realize I was there until I started coming out of it, but God was there the whole time. His light does break through the dark. It may take a long time, it may be one ray of light at a time, but the darkness does eventually fade. You may be completely broken before that light, God’s light, is able to penetrate the dark. That too is OK; you will come out of the dark into His light and be a new person. You will see His glory. “Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4 HCSB) The hard part is praising God during the storm, hitting your knees in your dark time and praising God. Just remember no matter your storm or how long it takes God understands and doesn't like to see you hurting. “Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5b NASB) No matter your reaction, your position when life tries to knock you down, don’t say Uncle…Just Say JESUS! Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
I love music. It reaches my soul and talks to me and allows me to understand or express my feelings when nothing else seems to work. I hope you enjoy this song by 7eventh Time Down: Just Say Jesus:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84LSLk3hfD4
Have you ever been in a wrestling match with a sibling or maybe even an adult and they said, “Say Uncle!”? I have, and the whole thought behind say Uncle is you are giving up. The other person has pinned you down and you can’t get out or up from the pin or they are tickling you so much that you’re about to pee on yourself. Oh yes, fond childhood memories of being held to the ground so someone could tickle me until I couldn't breathe. But as we get older we don’t play that game and life is the one pinning us down. Have you ever felt like life was giving you so much you couldn't get up and instead of laughing you were crying? Wave after wave of unexpected circumstances and misery just kept hitting and knocking you back to the ground. You can’t say “Uncle” and you certainly don’t have the strength to stand much less get on your knees. It’s not fun being there and you have two choices…1) curl up in the fetal position or 2) keep fighting against the waves.
Both positions have their good and bad points. Most people are built with one or the other instinct and that is the position they go to first. I’m not here to knock anyone who chooses position one or position two. What I hope to do is shed light on the good in both positions and allow you to assess for yourself what your instinct is. If you are in one of the two positions right now, why are you there and is it time to change positions?
Most people see the fetal position as weak. I see the fetal position as protecting yourself. Why or how is that? Think about it…close your eyes and picture yourself in the fetal position or go ahead and get in that position..just don’t fall asleep. :) You have your head tucked into your chest and your arms are covering your face. Your legs are tucked into your stomach. Therefore, you are protecting your vital organs and your beautiful face from damage. When life’s struggles start hitting us especially the ones that knock you to your knees (i.e. death) you want to curl up. You choose to not let the outside world in and in that sense you are protecting yourself from furthering the hurt you already have. What happens if something else just as traumatic happens when you are still reeling from the first wave of hurt? What do you do? Do you stay in the fetal position, get to your knees, stand? Think on that while I move on to position two.
When life hurls the hurts of this world at you do you stand and face it head on? Some see this as strong while others see this as stubborn or maybe just calloused. The first time you are hit with a hurt you are out to prove you can keep on; you can keep going with the best of them. Then another wave of hurt attacks and this time you throw your arm up to block it, like a boxer protecting his face from a punch heading right between his eyes. The problem is if you stay there too long, your arm blocks your vision. If you are quick and block the force of the hurt and return to standing how many more times can you handle it before you are knocked to your knees?
Both positions are meant to protect your from harm, but did you notice both positions has you on your knees at some point and maybe even more than once. Do you say Uncle to life when it has you down and you can’t get back up? Do you say Uncle to life when the blows keep coming and you’re tired from blocking all the blows? Do you think it’s just mere coincidence that you have an opportunity on your way down to be “on your knees” and on your way back up to be “on your knees”? You have a chance in the midst of your storm; while being knocked down, to be on your knees and instead of saying Uncle you have the chance to cry out JESUS. Then again on your way back up from the storm, either you are still in the storm fighting your way out or praising the one who got you through it, you have another chance to cry out JESUS. “So we called out to Yahweh, the God of our fathers, and the Lord heard our cry and saw our misery, hardship, and oppression.”(Deuteronomy 26:7 HCSB) God hasn't changed since the Old Testament times, when His people cry out He hears.
From the time the first wave hits you and you take a position until you are able to see the light, God is with you and hears and see the tears. The hurt may cause your world to turn pitch black and no words can come to your mouth. It is OK, God is still with you. The worst place I was in I didn't even realize I was there until I started coming out of it, but God was there the whole time. His light does break through the dark. It may take a long time, it may be one ray of light at a time, but the darkness does eventually fade. You may be completely broken before that light, God’s light, is able to penetrate the dark. That too is OK; you will come out of the dark into His light and be a new person. You will see His glory. “Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4 HCSB) The hard part is praising God during the storm, hitting your knees in your dark time and praising God. Just remember no matter your storm or how long it takes God understands and doesn't like to see you hurting. “Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5b NASB) No matter your reaction, your position when life tries to knock you down, don’t say Uncle…Just Say JESUS! Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
I love music. It reaches my soul and talks to me and allows me to understand or express my feelings when nothing else seems to work. I hope you enjoy this song by 7eventh Time Down: Just Say Jesus:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84LSLk3hfD4
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Unity
How quickly do we judge our neighbor? The mom whose kids are wearing shorts on a cold morning? The dad who runs late to every event his child is in? The person standing in line in front of us? Get ready; this is going to sting…..the Non-Denomination, the Baptist, the Church of Christ, the Assembly of God, the Pentecostal, the Methodist, and the Cowboy Church? I know there’s more, but I think you get the point.
We JUDGE. It’s something that we do and most of the time we aren’t aware of it. What would happen if before we cast our stone of judgment we offered a smile or a helping hand? Remember the woman the Pharisees brought before Jesus for adultery? They were ready to stone the woman to death. Do you know Jesus’ response? “If any one of you is without sin; let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7 NIV) Those men are not much different than us. Granted, we don’t throw stones to kill someone for their sin but we do have a tendency to kill one’s spirit by our words and/or actions. We would rather say, “our way is the right way and there is no other way.” May I ask where in the Bible does it say Baptist or Church of Christ or any other religion is right about their beliefs and everyone else is wrong? Correct me if I’m wrong, but the Bible does say, “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” (John 5:24 NIV)
How much better would this world be if we set aside our differences and grabbed hands with those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ? What would happen if we stopped throwing stones and gave a helping hand? Our beliefs are just that; beliefs. We shouldn’t focus on what we see as right or wrong.
While asking for this; ask God to give you the courage to do what His still small voice tells you. This world and our nation needs God! The only way to make a difference is to set aside our differences and unite as brothers and sisters in Christ. We are all hungry and thirsty. If you are a Christian you know Jesus is the one who can fill us and quench our thirst. Let’s share this with others, let’s be the change we want in our nation. Let’s be the ONE who does something to help someone else-after all we are ALL Humans. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
Take a minute and listen/watch Natalie Grant perform Human @ Dove awards. This is taken from Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIWut9ZrbRs
We JUDGE. It’s something that we do and most of the time we aren’t aware of it. What would happen if before we cast our stone of judgment we offered a smile or a helping hand? Remember the woman the Pharisees brought before Jesus for adultery? They were ready to stone the woman to death. Do you know Jesus’ response? “If any one of you is without sin; let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7 NIV) Those men are not much different than us. Granted, we don’t throw stones to kill someone for their sin but we do have a tendency to kill one’s spirit by our words and/or actions. We would rather say, “our way is the right way and there is no other way.” May I ask where in the Bible does it say Baptist or Church of Christ or any other religion is right about their beliefs and everyone else is wrong? Correct me if I’m wrong, but the Bible does say, “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” (John 5:24 NIV)
How much better would this world be if we set aside our differences and grabbed hands with those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ? What would happen if we stopped throwing stones and gave a helping hand? Our beliefs are just that; beliefs. We shouldn’t focus on what we see as right or wrong.
Instead we should ask God to give us eyes to see who needs Him and who needs help.
We should ask God to give us ears to hear the TRUTH and to listen without giving our opinion.
We should ask God to give us a mouth that speaks TRUTH and LOVE to everyone.
We should ask God to give us hands that will reach out to others.
We should ask God to give us feet to go where He leads.
Take a minute and listen/watch Natalie Grant perform Human @ Dove awards. This is taken from Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIWut9ZrbRs
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Your Sunday Best
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height’ for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
This topic is touchy and honestly I’m not real crazy about writing it, but I think it needs to be said. I was in a conversation this week that talked about how people used to dress for church and how we dress for church now. It wasn't too many years ago when women were expected to wear a dress and men should at least wear slacks and a button up shirt. Before that there was no question you wore a suit and tie if you were a man and the ladies wore dresses. Today when you walk into a church you will most likely see people wearing jeans, t-shirts, shorts and flip flops just to name a few things that are drastically different. Many frown on this and many feel it’s okay to wear these items. My personal opinion, not that it matters, is you should wear clothes that are respectful in the house of God. Really and truly you should wear clothes that are respectful all the time since He is with us all the time. (That’s another story)
I feel like today’s culture pushes dressing a certain way and if you don’t then well you’re poor. What has the result been because of these perceived notions of we have to dress “this” way to attend church? Go ahead and say it…how many of you at some point in your life didn’t step foot through the door of a church because 1) you didn’t like to wear a suit, tie or a dress 2) you couldn’t afford that type of clothing? I’m guessing you know where I’m going with this, so I’m just going to go ahead and go there. The church allowed how you looked to get in the way of saving souls. If you couldn’t or wouldn’t dress your Sunday best you were snubbed. Not only did this hurt the church but it hurt those Christians during the week trying to do good for the Kingdom. I looked and there is not a single spot in the Bible that says you have to dress your best before coming to me. I did find two verses (and there are more than two) that said come, and they are: “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the water; and you have no money, come buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.”(Isaiah 55:1 NIV) The second verse is from Matthew, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV) Nowhere does it say come all who are dressed in your finest clothes and I will give you a drink and give you rest. I have given an example from the Old and New Testament. When the first church started they didn’t expect people to wear their best. They didn’t have their “best” they had what they had. Even at that we are called to give up everything to follow Jesus. At some point we allowed our appearance to interfere with what Jesus came for. There is a reason God wants those who are thirsty and weary to come. It’s because we are ALL thirsty and at some point weary. So my questions are this: How many people were shunned from church and died without knowing the love of Jesus because of their appearance? How many people today are shunned by the church (we the hands and feet of Christ) because of their appearance?
If as Christians we are to shun those who can’t dress like us then aren’t we defeating the purpose of why Jesus came? He came so that all could be saved from sin, not just those who have a job, and can afford to buy the finer things in life. These are actually the people that didn’t accept Jesus…hum…I’ll leave that thought alone. My point here is money allows us to become prideful if we don’t give God the credit. There are several verses in the Bible that talks about how a Christian should dress, but it’s not what you think it would be. In Ephesians chapter 6 we are to put on the Armor of God. In Colossians we are told to put on a different type of clothing. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (Colossians 3:12-14) Sometimes we get so caught up in people’s appearance that we forget to clothe ourselves the way Ephesians 6 and Colossians 3 tells us to. I’m not pointing fingers here, because I can be found guilty too.
Let me clarify my opinions (again, not that it matters) and leave you with a question or two. Do I think you should dress your best on Sunday? Sure, but I believe if you want to dress down that’s okay too. You go to church to worship and learn more about God not to impress others. I also know that my best is not the person next to me's best. The taste of clothing and “best” also changes as we get older. I honestly feel it’s between you and God. I’m not here to judge. I have worn a dress to church, but I also have worn slacks and jeans. It depends on how I feel that morning and the weather outside. If God is more concerned about what’s on the inside then shouldn’t we be? Does your “Sunday Best “keep you from being your best? Remember the church is the people, not the building. This isn’t just a Sunday thing..chew on it a while let me know your thoughts. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
This topic is touchy and honestly I’m not real crazy about writing it, but I think it needs to be said. I was in a conversation this week that talked about how people used to dress for church and how we dress for church now. It wasn't too many years ago when women were expected to wear a dress and men should at least wear slacks and a button up shirt. Before that there was no question you wore a suit and tie if you were a man and the ladies wore dresses. Today when you walk into a church you will most likely see people wearing jeans, t-shirts, shorts and flip flops just to name a few things that are drastically different. Many frown on this and many feel it’s okay to wear these items. My personal opinion, not that it matters, is you should wear clothes that are respectful in the house of God. Really and truly you should wear clothes that are respectful all the time since He is with us all the time. (That’s another story)
I feel like today’s culture pushes dressing a certain way and if you don’t then well you’re poor. What has the result been because of these perceived notions of we have to dress “this” way to attend church? Go ahead and say it…how many of you at some point in your life didn’t step foot through the door of a church because 1) you didn’t like to wear a suit, tie or a dress 2) you couldn’t afford that type of clothing? I’m guessing you know where I’m going with this, so I’m just going to go ahead and go there. The church allowed how you looked to get in the way of saving souls. If you couldn’t or wouldn’t dress your Sunday best you were snubbed. Not only did this hurt the church but it hurt those Christians during the week trying to do good for the Kingdom. I looked and there is not a single spot in the Bible that says you have to dress your best before coming to me. I did find two verses (and there are more than two) that said come, and they are: “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the water; and you have no money, come buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.”(Isaiah 55:1 NIV) The second verse is from Matthew, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV) Nowhere does it say come all who are dressed in your finest clothes and I will give you a drink and give you rest. I have given an example from the Old and New Testament. When the first church started they didn’t expect people to wear their best. They didn’t have their “best” they had what they had. Even at that we are called to give up everything to follow Jesus. At some point we allowed our appearance to interfere with what Jesus came for. There is a reason God wants those who are thirsty and weary to come. It’s because we are ALL thirsty and at some point weary. So my questions are this: How many people were shunned from church and died without knowing the love of Jesus because of their appearance? How many people today are shunned by the church (we the hands and feet of Christ) because of their appearance?
If as Christians we are to shun those who can’t dress like us then aren’t we defeating the purpose of why Jesus came? He came so that all could be saved from sin, not just those who have a job, and can afford to buy the finer things in life. These are actually the people that didn’t accept Jesus…hum…I’ll leave that thought alone. My point here is money allows us to become prideful if we don’t give God the credit. There are several verses in the Bible that talks about how a Christian should dress, but it’s not what you think it would be. In Ephesians chapter 6 we are to put on the Armor of God. In Colossians we are told to put on a different type of clothing. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (Colossians 3:12-14) Sometimes we get so caught up in people’s appearance that we forget to clothe ourselves the way Ephesians 6 and Colossians 3 tells us to. I’m not pointing fingers here, because I can be found guilty too.
Let me clarify my opinions (again, not that it matters) and leave you with a question or two. Do I think you should dress your best on Sunday? Sure, but I believe if you want to dress down that’s okay too. You go to church to worship and learn more about God not to impress others. I also know that my best is not the person next to me's best. The taste of clothing and “best” also changes as we get older. I honestly feel it’s between you and God. I’m not here to judge. I have worn a dress to church, but I also have worn slacks and jeans. It depends on how I feel that morning and the weather outside. If God is more concerned about what’s on the inside then shouldn’t we be? Does your “Sunday Best “keep you from being your best? Remember the church is the people, not the building. This isn’t just a Sunday thing..chew on it a while let me know your thoughts. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
Sunday, October 20, 2013
My Struggle
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:12 NIV)
I’m not sure how long this post will be nor do I know the direction it will take. What I do know is I have been putting this post off all weekend. Why, because I do not want to let go and let everyone see my struggles. Here it goes, I’m going to just lay it out there and let God have my fears. Before I start let me just say that Nick, my husband, did okay this.
I guess the best place to start is 10 years ago when I was a newlywed. Nick and I made financial decisions without prayer. We would continue this path until I started teaching at Gladewater. So, what’s the big deal you ask? Well, we are sitting in a tough spot because of it. Don’t get me wrong we are blessed beyond words, but could we be sitting better had we consulted God before making decisions? Yes! I don’t want to go into the long story, but to sum it up we have debt. Who doesn’t right? Sit back and let me tell the rest of the story.
I’m going to rewind the clock a little past two years and start there. It was the end of the school year and I felt a tug on my heart to stop teaching. I had prayed about this off and on throughout the school year, but as the year was winding down I knew I needed to make a decision. I took one work week and prayed constantly to God to tell me if I should stay at home or teach. Ok, so what’s the big deal ladies stay at home all the time…right? Well, both of my kids were in school and like I said we are in debt. We had been working hard to pay off small credit cards and other things, but we still had debt. There was no real way I could not teach and live as comfortable as we were. We would be ok financially but not comfortable. By comfortable I mean not going and doing as much as we would like or was used to. After talking to Nick and having his support and praying for a week, I turned in my resignation letter. I had my doubts, but knew that God told me to resign. All I wanted and still want is to follow God’s will for my life. Now my journey as not being a teacher continues. I now have a part time job as a church secretary, but am blessed to work where I am at. I wish I could say my doubts have left and I am completely okay with where I am at, but that would be a lie. As I sit here writing I wrestle with the worldly things of a brick home and money to spend freely…those things are what I dream of, but we are still working towards those dreams. What I want more than that is to follow God’s will. I want to be where He wants me to be. So, for now I must find contentment with the fact that I am blessed beyond words. I have a house, two cars, money in the bank, but more importantly I have a loving Husband, two Healthy, Beautiful Kids, a Job, my Health and most important of all…A GOD who is MY SAVIOR and FRIEND.
When you look at me and wonder why I would give up teaching and the comforts of two full time paychecks consider this…1) How long do I have to be with my kids before they are grown? 2) Is it more important for me to have money or spend time with my kids? 3) Am I poor by America’s standards or by God’s standards? 4) Which is more important? I do have my doubts, and times when I get really down, but then I pray and ask God for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5 NIV)
Am I happy with where I am at financially? NO! Would I give up the time I have with my kids because I’m not teaching? NO! God is doing something in my life. I’m not sure what it is, but I know that I can trust HIM and all is going to be just fine. It’s more important to me to follow God’s will and be poor in the worlds eyes than to be rich in the worlds eyes and not in God’s will. May you seek God and find contentment with where you are at in life and know that He’s not finished with you yet! Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
I’m not sure how long this post will be nor do I know the direction it will take. What I do know is I have been putting this post off all weekend. Why, because I do not want to let go and let everyone see my struggles. Here it goes, I’m going to just lay it out there and let God have my fears. Before I start let me just say that Nick, my husband, did okay this.
I guess the best place to start is 10 years ago when I was a newlywed. Nick and I made financial decisions without prayer. We would continue this path until I started teaching at Gladewater. So, what’s the big deal you ask? Well, we are sitting in a tough spot because of it. Don’t get me wrong we are blessed beyond words, but could we be sitting better had we consulted God before making decisions? Yes! I don’t want to go into the long story, but to sum it up we have debt. Who doesn’t right? Sit back and let me tell the rest of the story.
I’m going to rewind the clock a little past two years and start there. It was the end of the school year and I felt a tug on my heart to stop teaching. I had prayed about this off and on throughout the school year, but as the year was winding down I knew I needed to make a decision. I took one work week and prayed constantly to God to tell me if I should stay at home or teach. Ok, so what’s the big deal ladies stay at home all the time…right? Well, both of my kids were in school and like I said we are in debt. We had been working hard to pay off small credit cards and other things, but we still had debt. There was no real way I could not teach and live as comfortable as we were. We would be ok financially but not comfortable. By comfortable I mean not going and doing as much as we would like or was used to. After talking to Nick and having his support and praying for a week, I turned in my resignation letter. I had my doubts, but knew that God told me to resign. All I wanted and still want is to follow God’s will for my life. Now my journey as not being a teacher continues. I now have a part time job as a church secretary, but am blessed to work where I am at. I wish I could say my doubts have left and I am completely okay with where I am at, but that would be a lie. As I sit here writing I wrestle with the worldly things of a brick home and money to spend freely…those things are what I dream of, but we are still working towards those dreams. What I want more than that is to follow God’s will. I want to be where He wants me to be. So, for now I must find contentment with the fact that I am blessed beyond words. I have a house, two cars, money in the bank, but more importantly I have a loving Husband, two Healthy, Beautiful Kids, a Job, my Health and most important of all…A GOD who is MY SAVIOR and FRIEND.
When you look at me and wonder why I would give up teaching and the comforts of two full time paychecks consider this…1) How long do I have to be with my kids before they are grown? 2) Is it more important for me to have money or spend time with my kids? 3) Am I poor by America’s standards or by God’s standards? 4) Which is more important? I do have my doubts, and times when I get really down, but then I pray and ask God for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5 NIV)
Am I happy with where I am at financially? NO! Would I give up the time I have with my kids because I’m not teaching? NO! God is doing something in my life. I’m not sure what it is, but I know that I can trust HIM and all is going to be just fine. It’s more important to me to follow God’s will and be poor in the worlds eyes than to be rich in the worlds eyes and not in God’s will. May you seek God and find contentment with where you are at in life and know that He’s not finished with you yet! Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Four years ago today
"There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven: a time to give birth and a time to die;" (Ecclesiates 3:1-2)
"a time to weep and a time to laugh,a time to mourn and a time to dance,"(Ecclesiastes 3:4-5)
*Bible verses taken from NIV unless noted.
Four Years Ago Today
My legs were heavy,
My heart was broken,
The dark that surrounded me,
The words unspoken.
I couldn’t move,
I couldn’t speak,
The tears came quickly,
The news left me weak.
My world was dark,
My life had shattered,
The whole in my heart beyond repair,
The hurt I felt was what mattered.
I think of you often,
I see a butterfly and smile,
The dark is gone,
My heart not yet whole,
The joy of knowing I will see you in a while.
My Granny, was truly a rose on this earth. So sweet, but could give you a look and you knew you messed up. I love her beyond what my words can express. The day she passed a dark cloud settled over me that I thought would never dissipate. Thanks to a wonderful family and friends who hung in there with me I can say the dark is gone. The pain comes and goes, but my love for her never will. Be sure to tell your loved ones what they mean to you. Be sure to share Jesus with them and take comfort in knowing that if they know Jesus as their savior you will see them again. To us it may seem like forever but our life is like a vapor compared to eternity. "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." (James 4:14) Don't take for granted what could be gone in a second. Life is a gift so live it that way!! Until next time,“May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
*Bible verses taken from NIV unless noted.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Masquerade
“Better to be ordinary and work for a living than act important and starve in the process.” (Proverbs 12:9 The Message)
Why do we walk around with a mask on? Are we participants in a masquerade ball minus the fancy clothes? Do we truly see ourselves the way that we present ourselves? Why is it so hard to just be you? This is not something that is a struggle from just the modern age. From the beginning of time people have been masquerading. Before I go any further let me tell you what masquerade means. According to Google masquerade means a false show or pretense or to pretend to be someone one is not.
On a daily basis we do not wear a mask to hide who we are, at least not a physical mask. Most often, and yes, I’m speaking about myself; we interact with people on a neutral level. We tend to be “politically or religiously” correct depending on where we are and who we are with. I’m not purposely pretending to be someone else, but I am trying to be accepted. This in its self is a whole different topic. I think we tend to wear a mask for several reasons and it may be one reason today and another reason tomorrow. My thoughts on this are as follows: 1) We want to be accepted. 2) We haven’t realized who we are. 3) To purposely hurt others. 4) To gain accolades from others.
As long as we are human we will have a desire to be accepted. The hard part is remembering who we should truly be accepted by. We are not here to be accepted by others, but to glorify God. God accepts you, no matter how far off the straight and narrow you have gone, God will meet you right where you are. The second reason can throw some people. By not realizing who you are it’s hard to not wear a mask. My pastor this morning said something that I’m going to use here. He said, “We are all kings and queens.” Paraphrasing here, we are kings and queens because we are children of God, the King of kings. Am I saying we should all buy fancy clothes and walk around with our noses stuck in the air? NO! I am saying, if we accepted who we really are in Christ we wouldn't want to masquerade around. I’ll be honest, I know who I am in Christ and yet I still walk around with my mask half covering my face most of the time. I read a post on Facebook earlier today that really sums up this point. “The devil doesn't want you to know who you are because you might start acting like it.” If we, as Christians, started acting like true heirs to the thrown there is nothing that could stop us, and that my friends, scares the devil. I can honestly say, I do not wear a mask to purposely hurt others, but there are people out there who do. Many times people masquerade to gain accolades from others. People want the pat on the back for a job well done or maybe even to pretend to be a different type of person than they are for the reputation.
Most of the time my biggest struggle is wanting to do good, but being too afraid to step out and do it. This is a very broad statement, but either I’m too afraid of what others will think or just ignore that still small voice that tells me to do it. I find that I want to do good, but still do bad things. Again this is another broad statement. I don’t steal or murder, but a sin is a sin. Paul says it very well, in Romans chapter 7.
Why do we walk around with a mask on? Are we participants in a masquerade ball minus the fancy clothes? Do we truly see ourselves the way that we present ourselves? Why is it so hard to just be you? This is not something that is a struggle from just the modern age. From the beginning of time people have been masquerading. Before I go any further let me tell you what masquerade means. According to Google masquerade means a false show or pretense or to pretend to be someone one is not.
On a daily basis we do not wear a mask to hide who we are, at least not a physical mask. Most often, and yes, I’m speaking about myself; we interact with people on a neutral level. We tend to be “politically or religiously” correct depending on where we are and who we are with. I’m not purposely pretending to be someone else, but I am trying to be accepted. This in its self is a whole different topic. I think we tend to wear a mask for several reasons and it may be one reason today and another reason tomorrow. My thoughts on this are as follows: 1) We want to be accepted. 2) We haven’t realized who we are. 3) To purposely hurt others. 4) To gain accolades from others.
As long as we are human we will have a desire to be accepted. The hard part is remembering who we should truly be accepted by. We are not here to be accepted by others, but to glorify God. God accepts you, no matter how far off the straight and narrow you have gone, God will meet you right where you are. The second reason can throw some people. By not realizing who you are it’s hard to not wear a mask. My pastor this morning said something that I’m going to use here. He said, “We are all kings and queens.” Paraphrasing here, we are kings and queens because we are children of God, the King of kings. Am I saying we should all buy fancy clothes and walk around with our noses stuck in the air? NO! I am saying, if we accepted who we really are in Christ we wouldn't want to masquerade around. I’ll be honest, I know who I am in Christ and yet I still walk around with my mask half covering my face most of the time. I read a post on Facebook earlier today that really sums up this point. “The devil doesn't want you to know who you are because you might start acting like it.” If we, as Christians, started acting like true heirs to the thrown there is nothing that could stop us, and that my friends, scares the devil. I can honestly say, I do not wear a mask to purposely hurt others, but there are people out there who do. Many times people masquerade to gain accolades from others. People want the pat on the back for a job well done or maybe even to pretend to be a different type of person than they are for the reputation.
Most of the time my biggest struggle is wanting to do good, but being too afraid to step out and do it. This is a very broad statement, but either I’m too afraid of what others will think or just ignore that still small voice that tells me to do it. I find that I want to do good, but still do bad things. Again this is another broad statement. I don’t steal or murder, but a sin is a sin. Paul says it very well, in Romans chapter 7.
“For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am made out of flesh, sold into sin’s power. For I do not understand what I am doing, because I do not practice what I want to do, but I do what I hate. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree with the law that it is good. So now I am no longer the one doing it, but it is sin living in me. For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For the desire to do what is good is with me, but there is no ability to do it. For I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do. Now if I do what I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but it is the sin that lives in me. So I discover this principle: When I want to do what is good, evil is with me. For in my inner self I joyfully agree with God’s law. But I see a different law in the parts of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and taking me prisoner to the law of sin in the parts of my body. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this dying body? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I myself am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh, to the law of sin.” (Romans 7:14-25 HCSB)
My mask isn't always worn intentionally. The important thing to remember is God can see your intentions, he knows your heart. Job asked a question that doesn't necessarily pertain to this topic, but I thought it still fits. I find myself asking this question too, “Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?” (Job 13:14 NIV) The obvious answer is I want to control my life but God is in control. If I put my mask down and give God the reigns shouldn't I be comfortable with myself? Easier said than done….so this week, I’m going to intentionally seek God and ask him to help me to put my mask down and give everything to God. And I mean everything, from my thoughts, to my actions, to my family and my friends, it’s all His anyway…so I’m going to attempt to not put myself in jeopardy. Will you? Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)Sunday, October 6, 2013
Be Quiet
“The LORD will fight for you; you must be quiet.” Exodus 14:14
Be Quiet! How many times as a kid did someone tell you to be quiet? Why was it said? Did they tell you so they could talk, or maybe you were being too loud? Was it to keep you from saying or doing something you weren’t supposed to?
I had my fair share of being told to be quiet and telling others to be quiet. Now, as a parent I usually tell my kids to be quiet to either keep them from saying something they shouldn’t or because they are too loud. Has God ever told you to be quiet? Kind of a weird question, I know, but has He? Could God be telling you to be quiet to keep you from saying or doing something that you’re not supposed to do? I don’t mean it as in if you do it you’re going to get in trouble, but in the instance of He’s not ready for you to do that yet or say that yet. The Bible verse above says we need to be quiet and God will fight for us. Depending on your translation, it could say be still instead of be quiet. In this instance I believe the point is to wait on the Lord and let Him fight for you. If we act or speak before we are supposed to it could cause a problem. So, shouldn’t it be that if we act or speak before God wants us to there could be a problem?
I ask these questions, mainly because that’s where I am at right now. I want to do something so badly, but I am impatiently waiting on the Lord to move first. Yes, I said impatiently because Kim Hardy and patient are not usually used in the same sentence…especially when I want something. :) This past week as I finished up work and I stopped to pray something happened that has never happened before. I thanked God for the quiet room and began to pray. Instead of praying, I felt Him tell me to be quiet. So, I waited a few minutes and started to pray, again God told me to be quiet. I sat in silence, waiting so I could pray and finish out my day. I started to pray one last time and again I heard be quiet. I finally gave in and just sat in the quiet room, listening to the silence and waiting for God to speak to me. Only, He didn’t speak to me. We both just sat in silence and oddly enough, after I felt like I had sat long enough I got up and walked out and felt at peace. I didn’t get answers and I didn’t get to ask for help for myself or others, but God knows my heart and for that day that’s all that mattered. Sometimes we need to just be quiet and enjoy it. We are so busy and we want things NOW, but waiting on the Lord is the better route to go. The next time you say, “Be quiet” or you are told to be quiet consider why you are saying it or being asked that. Are you too busy to enjoy the quiet and realize His plans and timing are far better than yours? Can you hear Him when He speaks to you? SHHHH, He’s with you right now…can you sit quietly and wait? Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
*Bible verses taken from HCSB
Be Quiet! How many times as a kid did someone tell you to be quiet? Why was it said? Did they tell you so they could talk, or maybe you were being too loud? Was it to keep you from saying or doing something you weren’t supposed to?
I had my fair share of being told to be quiet and telling others to be quiet. Now, as a parent I usually tell my kids to be quiet to either keep them from saying something they shouldn’t or because they are too loud. Has God ever told you to be quiet? Kind of a weird question, I know, but has He? Could God be telling you to be quiet to keep you from saying or doing something that you’re not supposed to do? I don’t mean it as in if you do it you’re going to get in trouble, but in the instance of He’s not ready for you to do that yet or say that yet. The Bible verse above says we need to be quiet and God will fight for us. Depending on your translation, it could say be still instead of be quiet. In this instance I believe the point is to wait on the Lord and let Him fight for you. If we act or speak before we are supposed to it could cause a problem. So, shouldn’t it be that if we act or speak before God wants us to there could be a problem?
I ask these questions, mainly because that’s where I am at right now. I want to do something so badly, but I am impatiently waiting on the Lord to move first. Yes, I said impatiently because Kim Hardy and patient are not usually used in the same sentence…especially when I want something. :) This past week as I finished up work and I stopped to pray something happened that has never happened before. I thanked God for the quiet room and began to pray. Instead of praying, I felt Him tell me to be quiet. So, I waited a few minutes and started to pray, again God told me to be quiet. I sat in silence, waiting so I could pray and finish out my day. I started to pray one last time and again I heard be quiet. I finally gave in and just sat in the quiet room, listening to the silence and waiting for God to speak to me. Only, He didn’t speak to me. We both just sat in silence and oddly enough, after I felt like I had sat long enough I got up and walked out and felt at peace. I didn’t get answers and I didn’t get to ask for help for myself or others, but God knows my heart and for that day that’s all that mattered. Sometimes we need to just be quiet and enjoy it. We are so busy and we want things NOW, but waiting on the Lord is the better route to go. The next time you say, “Be quiet” or you are told to be quiet consider why you are saying it or being asked that. Are you too busy to enjoy the quiet and realize His plans and timing are far better than yours? Can you hear Him when He speaks to you? SHHHH, He’s with you right now…can you sit quietly and wait? Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24, HCSB)
*Bible verses taken from HCSB
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Worship
I’m going to start things a bit differently today. No Bible verses to start with, just a question.
What does worship mean to you?
Is it when you sing to God, fellowship with other Christians, telling others about God? Is it when you pray, how about the way you live your life? Again, I ask, what does worship mean to you?
Take a few seconds and allow yourself to think about what it truly means and what it means to you. I find that there are times I know what a word means but I don’t stop to think about it. Many times certain things, like worship becomes so much of a routine that I don’t let the meaning sink in. With that said, I will give you the two definitions of worship from dictionary.com.
Worship: 1. Reverent honor and homage paid to God or sacred personage, or to any object regarded as sacred.
2. Formal or ceremonious rendering of such honor and homage.
Now that you have two definitions to base your answer on does it change your answer? Again, I ask, what does worship mean to you?
In my opinion Psalm 100 paints a picture of what worship should look and sound like.
Allow God to speak to you and pour your heart out to Him during the time of Worship. We should be praising God constantly. There is always something to be thankful for and being sure to thank Him is important. I asked you, repeatedly, what worship means to you, so let me tell you what it means to me. Worship isn’t just the singing we do during a church service or at an event to ask God to dwell among us. Worship is praising God daily for the small and the big blessings in your life and thanking Him for the unseen blessings in your life. Worship is the way you live your life. Worship is serving God and others with a grateful heart. “Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.”(Romans 12:1) We can never be thankful enough for what God has done for us. We can never worship God enough, but we can always worship God in words and actions and in our hearts. Everything we do should reflect God in our lives. Before you go to church tomorrow let me ask you one more time, what does worship mean to you? I pray that tomorrow’s worship service will touch you deeply and mean just a little more to you than it did last Sunday. I pray for those of you reading that you will feel welcome in a church, that you will feel God’ s love pouring out on you. If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your savior may He speak to you so that you will come to know Him. If you don’t know Him as your savior please feel free to contact me or your pastor and let Jesus become your savior and friend. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24,HCSB)
What does worship mean to you?
Is it when you sing to God, fellowship with other Christians, telling others about God? Is it when you pray, how about the way you live your life? Again, I ask, what does worship mean to you?
Take a few seconds and allow yourself to think about what it truly means and what it means to you. I find that there are times I know what a word means but I don’t stop to think about it. Many times certain things, like worship becomes so much of a routine that I don’t let the meaning sink in. With that said, I will give you the two definitions of worship from dictionary.com.
Worship: 1. Reverent honor and homage paid to God or sacred personage, or to any object regarded as sacred.
2. Formal or ceremonious rendering of such honor and homage.
Now that you have two definitions to base your answer on does it change your answer? Again, I ask, what does worship mean to you?
In my opinion Psalm 100 paints a picture of what worship should look and sound like.
“Shout triumphantly to the LORD, all the earth.
Serve the LORD with gladness;
come before Him with joyful songs.
Acknowledge that Yahweh is God.
He made us, and we are His —
His people, the sheep of His pasture.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise.
Give thanks to Him and praise His name.
For Yahweh is good, and His love is eternal;
His faithfulness endures through all generations.” (HCSB)
When I think of worship, Psalm 100 is what I think of. I’m going to admit something that is rather embarrassing to me. Until recently I honestly didn’t understand why we sang in church service. Don’t get me wrong, I love that we sing and I enjoyed the music and being a person who loves to write I enjoyed the words. I guess since I didn’t grow up going to church on a regular basis the purpose of singing slipped my mind. So, if you’re like me and not real sure why you sing at church, it’s to worship God. You are singing His praises and this is also when you can invite Him to come along side you and tell you what you need to hear. Again in Psalm 95:1-8 you can see what worship looks like and sounds like.
“Come, let us shout joyfully to the LORD,
shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation!
Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving;
let us shout triumphantly to Him in song.
For the LORD is a great God,
a great King above all gods.
The depths of the earth are in His hand,
and the mountain peaks are His.
The sea is His; He made it.
His hands formed the dry land.
Come, let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.
For He is our God,
and we are the people of His pasture,
the sheep under His care.
Today, if you hear His voice:
Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah,
as on that day at Massah in the wilderness” (HCSB)
Allow God to speak to you and pour your heart out to Him during the time of Worship. We should be praising God constantly. There is always something to be thankful for and being sure to thank Him is important. I asked you, repeatedly, what worship means to you, so let me tell you what it means to me. Worship isn’t just the singing we do during a church service or at an event to ask God to dwell among us. Worship is praising God daily for the small and the big blessings in your life and thanking Him for the unseen blessings in your life. Worship is the way you live your life. Worship is serving God and others with a grateful heart. “Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.”(Romans 12:1) We can never be thankful enough for what God has done for us. We can never worship God enough, but we can always worship God in words and actions and in our hearts. Everything we do should reflect God in our lives. Before you go to church tomorrow let me ask you one more time, what does worship mean to you? I pray that tomorrow’s worship service will touch you deeply and mean just a little more to you than it did last Sunday. I pray for those of you reading that you will feel welcome in a church, that you will feel God’ s love pouring out on you. If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your savior may He speak to you so that you will come to know Him. If you don’t know Him as your savior please feel free to contact me or your pastor and let Jesus become your savior and friend. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” (Numbers 6:24,HCSB)
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Encouragement
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11
First, let me apologize for not posting last week. I did not feel led to write so I decided to not write. I did not want to sit down and force something and it not be meaningful, heartfelt or bathed in prayer. I do hope that you had an awesome week and prayerfully the weeks of me not writing will be few and far between.
We live in a world that is so fast paced and all about self that we tend to forget to slow down. More importantly we forget to encourage one another. Being an ex-teacher I feel I can accurately give this example. When you have a student who is struggling or doesn't think they can do the work before them, what do most teachers do? They encourage the student. Sometimes it’s just a few words like: I believe in you and other times its taking them aside and step by step helping them get the work done. Both ways are encouraging to the student, because they realize they can do the work. So, I want to ask you this question: What would the world be like if we took just a few minutes out of our day to encourage someone? The Bible actually instructs us to encourage each other. “But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception.” Hebrews 3:13 The deception the author is talking about can be easily understood as the world view on life. If you live a worldly life, you put yourself first and don’t worry about others. Putting others before ourselves is a hard thing to do. We are in a world that promotes putting self-first, but it’s also of the flesh. It’s a battle that everyone at some point struggles with.
Back to my question, what would the world be like if we took just a few minutes of our day to encourage someone? I would like to think it would be a better place. How many times a day have you gone through your entire day at work and made it home and did not encourage someone? Depending on what you do for a living you may not be in an environment where you can encourage someone. So then what are you supposed to do? What about finally going to bed and not even an encouraging word to your family leaves your mouth. This is when the “little” things can go a long way. Here are a few suggestions: Put a note in your loved ones lunch. Write someone a letter or a card and mail it to them. We tend to focus on technology so much we forget what it feels like to get a letter or card in the mail. The person receiving it will probably smile, and that means you just made their day a little better. You could give them a call, text or email and say hey I was thinking about you…hope you have a great day. You could buy the food or drink or put a little money towards the persons purchase behind you. There are a ton of things that you can do for someone, that doesn't cost money. Obviously there are things you can do that cost money too, but if you take just a moment out of your busy schedule to encourage someone; you will find that it makes you feel better too. :) I’m not saying go broke just so you can encourage others, but if that’s what you feel led to do…go for it! You can start small. Pick one day of the week and send a note to someone or call someone or do both.
I have always wanted to help people. I like to encourage people and feel a burden to help others as much as possible. I’m always looking for ways to do more and my biggest fault is I want to do it on a BIG scale. The truth is, if we start by doing one thing nice or encouraging one person you are starting a ripple effect. Prayerfully the person who received your kindness will be kind to someone else. The same goes with encouragement, if you encourage someone they will probably take the time to encourage someone else and so the ripple begins. We are called to plant the seed and let God take care of the rest. You never know how someone is truly feeling or what they are going through. Give encouragement and be the blessing that person needs. I’m going to leave you with words from Paul and I urge you don’t wait until the holidays are upon us to start living in peace and giving encouragement…live it out daily. “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 13:11 NIV) Until next time, May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from HCSB unless noted otherwise
First, let me apologize for not posting last week. I did not feel led to write so I decided to not write. I did not want to sit down and force something and it not be meaningful, heartfelt or bathed in prayer. I do hope that you had an awesome week and prayerfully the weeks of me not writing will be few and far between.
We live in a world that is so fast paced and all about self that we tend to forget to slow down. More importantly we forget to encourage one another. Being an ex-teacher I feel I can accurately give this example. When you have a student who is struggling or doesn't think they can do the work before them, what do most teachers do? They encourage the student. Sometimes it’s just a few words like: I believe in you and other times its taking them aside and step by step helping them get the work done. Both ways are encouraging to the student, because they realize they can do the work. So, I want to ask you this question: What would the world be like if we took just a few minutes out of our day to encourage someone? The Bible actually instructs us to encourage each other. “But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception.” Hebrews 3:13 The deception the author is talking about can be easily understood as the world view on life. If you live a worldly life, you put yourself first and don’t worry about others. Putting others before ourselves is a hard thing to do. We are in a world that promotes putting self-first, but it’s also of the flesh. It’s a battle that everyone at some point struggles with.
Back to my question, what would the world be like if we took just a few minutes of our day to encourage someone? I would like to think it would be a better place. How many times a day have you gone through your entire day at work and made it home and did not encourage someone? Depending on what you do for a living you may not be in an environment where you can encourage someone. So then what are you supposed to do? What about finally going to bed and not even an encouraging word to your family leaves your mouth. This is when the “little” things can go a long way. Here are a few suggestions: Put a note in your loved ones lunch. Write someone a letter or a card and mail it to them. We tend to focus on technology so much we forget what it feels like to get a letter or card in the mail. The person receiving it will probably smile, and that means you just made their day a little better. You could give them a call, text or email and say hey I was thinking about you…hope you have a great day. You could buy the food or drink or put a little money towards the persons purchase behind you. There are a ton of things that you can do for someone, that doesn't cost money. Obviously there are things you can do that cost money too, but if you take just a moment out of your busy schedule to encourage someone; you will find that it makes you feel better too. :) I’m not saying go broke just so you can encourage others, but if that’s what you feel led to do…go for it! You can start small. Pick one day of the week and send a note to someone or call someone or do both.
I have always wanted to help people. I like to encourage people and feel a burden to help others as much as possible. I’m always looking for ways to do more and my biggest fault is I want to do it on a BIG scale. The truth is, if we start by doing one thing nice or encouraging one person you are starting a ripple effect. Prayerfully the person who received your kindness will be kind to someone else. The same goes with encouragement, if you encourage someone they will probably take the time to encourage someone else and so the ripple begins. We are called to plant the seed and let God take care of the rest. You never know how someone is truly feeling or what they are going through. Give encouragement and be the blessing that person needs. I’m going to leave you with words from Paul and I urge you don’t wait until the holidays are upon us to start living in peace and giving encouragement…live it out daily. “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 13:11 NIV) Until next time, May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from HCSB unless noted otherwise
Friday, September 6, 2013
If I didn't have...
“If the Lord had not been on our side-let Israel say-“ Psalm 124:1
I had the privilege of going to a Beth Moore conference a couple of weekends ago. I have never been to one, but I can say that I hope to go back to one. This conference was very moving and she challenged us to share our testimony. She gave us the first verse of Psalm 124 and said write some sentences to complete the verse. So I’m going to start with my sentences and who knows where it will go from there. Please stick with me til the end.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't be here.
If the Lord had not been on my side I would still be in the dark pit of depression.
If the Lord had not been on my side I would've succumbed to alcohol and probably drugs.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have the life I have today.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have my husband.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have my two blessings from above.
You can look at my previous statements and assume a lot of things, but be careful in doing so. The first statement is pretty obvious and yes I will admit there was a point in my life that I didn't think I worse worth anything and considered suicide. That statement leads to my next statement about depression. I have fought depression off and on since I was a teenager. I can say that I have overcome depression, but there are days when the darkness tries to sneak back in. When you are depressed you are tempted to ease the pain with alcohol or drugs. I have not drunk since my wedding night and I do not plan on doing so. I have nothing against those who drink, I choose not to for my own reasons. I have never used drugs other than those prescribed by a doctor. So, my third statement isn't because I used alcohol and drugs but rather the availability I had to them. The last three statements are full of life and blessings. So, in six sentences you get a drift of my life and how it was and how it is today. You also see how it could have been and how it could be today. The only reason, my friend; that I can say I am here, I am not depressed, and I did not choose to ease my pain with alcohol and drugs is because I have the Lord on my side. I cried out to Jesus and He heard me and He saved me. “This poor man called and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.” Psalm 34:6 In this verse poor doesn't mean without money, but poor as in he knew he was in trouble and couldn't be saved by his own doings.(explanation from NIV) When you reach that point in your life and you cry out, Jesus will save you. My life wasn't fixed in the blink of an eye when I cried out to Jesus. As a matter of fact I still cry out to Jesus and He still answers me. What did happen was a change inside that made me want to live and keep going and to never give up until He calls me home. I lean on the Lord because He is my strength. “The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” Exodus 15:2 You can scan the Bible in the books of Psalm and Proverbs and find several times where it mentions God is my strength. There is a reason for that, and I can attest that when times get tough He is the only thing that keeps me going.
In Exodus it states that God is my salvation and many times when a Christian believes in God they say I am saved. I decided to look up salvation and saved to see if I could picture in my mind what God has done for me. I’m going to give you the first definition for each word then the Theological definition for each word. According to dictionary.com, salvation is the act of saving or protecting from harm, risk, loss, destruction, etc. The Theological definition says salvation is the deliverance from the power and penalty of sin; redemption. When you look at my statements from above again and I tell you God is my salvation. I am really saying….
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't be here. (God protected me from killing myself.)
If the Lord had not been on my side I would still be in the dark pit of depression.
(God saved me from depression.)
If the Lord had not been on my side I would've succumbed to alcohol and probably drugs.
(God protected me from wanting to use alcohol and drugs.)
My eyes have been opened and my mind can see what God has really done for me. When I say I am saved. I’m not saying that I am safe from harm or disease or evil here on this earth. I am saying God saved me from giving in to the sinful temptations of my past and he has saved me from the fiery depths of hell. The word saved according to dictionary.com means to rescue from danger or possible harm, injury, or loss. The Theological definition of saved is to deliver from the power and consequences of sin. The consequence of sin is death and if you are not saved; you don’t believe that Jesus died for you and you die, you will go to hell. This is what I mean when I say I am saved. I have eternal life because I called on the name of Jesus and believed that he died on the cross for ALL my sins. He didn't die for the sins I committed before I believed or the sins that I commit as a believer. No, He died so that ALL of my sins are washed away. (Yes, I just admitted I sin. Unfortunately, I sin a lot more than I would like to admit to.) I’m not perfect…ssshhhh…don’t tell anybody. ;) There is only one name you can call on and be saved and it’s not batman or superman or daddy. The only name that can save you from eternal damnation is Jesus Christ. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 As I start winding this up, I hope you can see why I call God my salvation. You have just read a summary of my testimony.(Thanks Beth Moore) Yes, there is more, but instead of me going on and on I want to challenge you to finish the first verse from Psalm 124 “If the Lord had not been on my side…..” . What would your life be like? Where would you be? Once you write them down share them with someone. I know it’s scary to share with others, but as I mentioned last week a sense of healing and understanding happens when we share our testimony. I would love to hear your testimony, but the important thing is to realize where God has brought us from and Praise Him. I want you to remember this, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 You are sharing the power of God when you become brave and step out of your comfort zone and share. Until next time, May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from NIV and HCSB
I had the privilege of going to a Beth Moore conference a couple of weekends ago. I have never been to one, but I can say that I hope to go back to one. This conference was very moving and she challenged us to share our testimony. She gave us the first verse of Psalm 124 and said write some sentences to complete the verse. So I’m going to start with my sentences and who knows where it will go from there. Please stick with me til the end.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't be here.
If the Lord had not been on my side I would still be in the dark pit of depression.
If the Lord had not been on my side I would've succumbed to alcohol and probably drugs.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have the life I have today.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have my husband.
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't have my two blessings from above.
You can look at my previous statements and assume a lot of things, but be careful in doing so. The first statement is pretty obvious and yes I will admit there was a point in my life that I didn't think I worse worth anything and considered suicide. That statement leads to my next statement about depression. I have fought depression off and on since I was a teenager. I can say that I have overcome depression, but there are days when the darkness tries to sneak back in. When you are depressed you are tempted to ease the pain with alcohol or drugs. I have not drunk since my wedding night and I do not plan on doing so. I have nothing against those who drink, I choose not to for my own reasons. I have never used drugs other than those prescribed by a doctor. So, my third statement isn't because I used alcohol and drugs but rather the availability I had to them. The last three statements are full of life and blessings. So, in six sentences you get a drift of my life and how it was and how it is today. You also see how it could have been and how it could be today. The only reason, my friend; that I can say I am here, I am not depressed, and I did not choose to ease my pain with alcohol and drugs is because I have the Lord on my side. I cried out to Jesus and He heard me and He saved me. “This poor man called and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.” Psalm 34:6 In this verse poor doesn't mean without money, but poor as in he knew he was in trouble and couldn't be saved by his own doings.(explanation from NIV) When you reach that point in your life and you cry out, Jesus will save you. My life wasn't fixed in the blink of an eye when I cried out to Jesus. As a matter of fact I still cry out to Jesus and He still answers me. What did happen was a change inside that made me want to live and keep going and to never give up until He calls me home. I lean on the Lord because He is my strength. “The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” Exodus 15:2 You can scan the Bible in the books of Psalm and Proverbs and find several times where it mentions God is my strength. There is a reason for that, and I can attest that when times get tough He is the only thing that keeps me going.
In Exodus it states that God is my salvation and many times when a Christian believes in God they say I am saved. I decided to look up salvation and saved to see if I could picture in my mind what God has done for me. I’m going to give you the first definition for each word then the Theological definition for each word. According to dictionary.com, salvation is the act of saving or protecting from harm, risk, loss, destruction, etc. The Theological definition says salvation is the deliverance from the power and penalty of sin; redemption. When you look at my statements from above again and I tell you God is my salvation. I am really saying….
If the Lord had not been on my side I wouldn't be here. (God protected me from killing myself.)
If the Lord had not been on my side I would still be in the dark pit of depression.
(God saved me from depression.)
If the Lord had not been on my side I would've succumbed to alcohol and probably drugs.
(God protected me from wanting to use alcohol and drugs.)
My eyes have been opened and my mind can see what God has really done for me. When I say I am saved. I’m not saying that I am safe from harm or disease or evil here on this earth. I am saying God saved me from giving in to the sinful temptations of my past and he has saved me from the fiery depths of hell. The word saved according to dictionary.com means to rescue from danger or possible harm, injury, or loss. The Theological definition of saved is to deliver from the power and consequences of sin. The consequence of sin is death and if you are not saved; you don’t believe that Jesus died for you and you die, you will go to hell. This is what I mean when I say I am saved. I have eternal life because I called on the name of Jesus and believed that he died on the cross for ALL my sins. He didn't die for the sins I committed before I believed or the sins that I commit as a believer. No, He died so that ALL of my sins are washed away. (Yes, I just admitted I sin. Unfortunately, I sin a lot more than I would like to admit to.) I’m not perfect…ssshhhh…don’t tell anybody. ;) There is only one name you can call on and be saved and it’s not batman or superman or daddy. The only name that can save you from eternal damnation is Jesus Christ. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 As I start winding this up, I hope you can see why I call God my salvation. You have just read a summary of my testimony.(Thanks Beth Moore) Yes, there is more, but instead of me going on and on I want to challenge you to finish the first verse from Psalm 124 “If the Lord had not been on my side…..” . What would your life be like? Where would you be? Once you write them down share them with someone. I know it’s scary to share with others, but as I mentioned last week a sense of healing and understanding happens when we share our testimony. I would love to hear your testimony, but the important thing is to realize where God has brought us from and Praise Him. I want you to remember this, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18 You are sharing the power of God when you become brave and step out of your comfort zone and share. Until next time, May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from NIV and HCSB
Friday, August 30, 2013
He Loves Us
“I have always loved you,” says the LORD. But you retort, “Really? How have you loved us?” Malachi 1:2
Do you find yourself trying to grasp the infinite love of God? Can anyone truly comprehend His love for us? I really don’t think we can. We can accept that His love for us is far greater than we could fathom, but to truly understand His love is pretty hard to do. So, I’m sitting here wanting to write something different from what God has laid on my heart. Why? Because I will have to share a part of me that I like to keep tucked away. The part of me that doesn’t want others to know, because we are all supposed to be HAPPY all the time, especially if we are Christians. Right? At this moment I am happy and so full of joy that my heart feels like it could burst, but I need to be honest. You see, I feel like people believe that since we are Christians we put on a front or we should put on a front. I disagree with this, and feel we should be transparent. Others need to know that you hurt or you have been hurt. Why? In some weird way when you let others know you are hurting or have been hurt you feel better, but something else happens. The hurt you feel doesn’t seem to be as bad because you start to heal. So, I’m going to share with you and prayerfully you will get something from this.
If you look in Malachi the first chapter you will see that God is telling Israel that he has always loved them. “I have always loved you,’ says the Lord. But you retort, ‘Really? How have you loved us?” Malachi 1:2 When did you truly, and I mean deep down in your soul, know that God loves you? I can tell you that I have known that God loves me on a surface level for quite some time. I however, didn’t truly grasp how much on a soul level until here recently. I’m not sure when it happened, but it happened. I grew up knowing that I was loved but never really felt loved. I searched for that love and the love I was looking for couldn’t be found. Not because I wasn’t loved but because the love I desperately needed was the love that only God can give. I can tell you that I love deeper today than I did a year ago. That is because I feel God’s love and I understand how much he truly loves me. If you think of a child who knows they are loved, what do you see? Take a second and close your eyes and picture a happy child. I see bright eyes, a toothy smile from ear to ear and a sense of confidence. Now think of a child who doesn’t know they are loved. Go ahead, close your eyes again. I’m sure there is at least one child you can picture. I see sad eyes (when you get the chance to look into their eyes), a frown and a sense of I’m not worthy, with their head bowed down. There is a drastic difference in a child who knows and feels they are loved than one who doesn’t know and/or feel they are loved. In the book, “The Five Love Languages of Children” written by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell they compare a child to a flower. “When the water of love is given, your child will bloom and bless the world with beauty. Without that love, she will become a wilted flower, begging for water.” Campbell, Ross p. 27 I my friends, was the wilted flower begging for water. I finally found the endless supply of water and am no longer the wilted flower. It doesn’t matter that it took until I was grown to comprehend the love I needed could only be given from God. I’m so thankful for His love. “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” 1 Chronicles 16:34
I can’t tell you how many times I have been told, “I love you,” and all I could think was really? The same is true with God’s love, like the scripture quoted from Malachi; I kept thinking really, God loves me? It is important not only for our children but for others as well; Christians and non-Christians, that we show our love and not just tell of our love. “Little children, we must not love with word or speech, but with truth and action.” 1 John 3:18 I can honestly say it’s not always easy for me to show my love. Mainly because I’m afraid of how it will be taken. I know in my heart, and only because I know how much I am loved by God, that I can show my love and not be afraid.
Do you find yourself trying to grasp the infinite love of God? Can anyone truly comprehend His love for us? I really don’t think we can. We can accept that His love for us is far greater than we could fathom, but to truly understand His love is pretty hard to do. So, I’m sitting here wanting to write something different from what God has laid on my heart. Why? Because I will have to share a part of me that I like to keep tucked away. The part of me that doesn’t want others to know, because we are all supposed to be HAPPY all the time, especially if we are Christians. Right? At this moment I am happy and so full of joy that my heart feels like it could burst, but I need to be honest. You see, I feel like people believe that since we are Christians we put on a front or we should put on a front. I disagree with this, and feel we should be transparent. Others need to know that you hurt or you have been hurt. Why? In some weird way when you let others know you are hurting or have been hurt you feel better, but something else happens. The hurt you feel doesn’t seem to be as bad because you start to heal. So, I’m going to share with you and prayerfully you will get something from this.
If you look in Malachi the first chapter you will see that God is telling Israel that he has always loved them. “I have always loved you,’ says the Lord. But you retort, ‘Really? How have you loved us?” Malachi 1:2 When did you truly, and I mean deep down in your soul, know that God loves you? I can tell you that I have known that God loves me on a surface level for quite some time. I however, didn’t truly grasp how much on a soul level until here recently. I’m not sure when it happened, but it happened. I grew up knowing that I was loved but never really felt loved. I searched for that love and the love I was looking for couldn’t be found. Not because I wasn’t loved but because the love I desperately needed was the love that only God can give. I can tell you that I love deeper today than I did a year ago. That is because I feel God’s love and I understand how much he truly loves me. If you think of a child who knows they are loved, what do you see? Take a second and close your eyes and picture a happy child. I see bright eyes, a toothy smile from ear to ear and a sense of confidence. Now think of a child who doesn’t know they are loved. Go ahead, close your eyes again. I’m sure there is at least one child you can picture. I see sad eyes (when you get the chance to look into their eyes), a frown and a sense of I’m not worthy, with their head bowed down. There is a drastic difference in a child who knows and feels they are loved than one who doesn’t know and/or feel they are loved. In the book, “The Five Love Languages of Children” written by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell they compare a child to a flower. “When the water of love is given, your child will bloom and bless the world with beauty. Without that love, she will become a wilted flower, begging for water.” Campbell, Ross p. 27 I my friends, was the wilted flower begging for water. I finally found the endless supply of water and am no longer the wilted flower. It doesn’t matter that it took until I was grown to comprehend the love I needed could only be given from God. I’m so thankful for His love. “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” 1 Chronicles 16:34
I can’t tell you how many times I have been told, “I love you,” and all I could think was really? The same is true with God’s love, like the scripture quoted from Malachi; I kept thinking really, God loves me? It is important not only for our children but for others as well; Christians and non-Christians, that we show our love and not just tell of our love. “Little children, we must not love with word or speech, but with truth and action.” 1 John 3:18 I can honestly say it’s not always easy for me to show my love. Mainly because I’m afraid of how it will be taken. I know in my heart, and only because I know how much I am loved by God, that I can show my love and not be afraid.
“If I speak human or angelic languages but do not have love,
I am a sounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy
and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith
so that I can move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing.
And if I donate all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body in order to boast but do not have love, I gain nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
You may disagree with me on this next point, but I feel what 1 Corinthians is saying is until you have God, who is love, then you can’t truly love. You can be the nicest, sweetest, most generous person in this world but without God it means nothing. So today as I wind this up I pray the prayer from Ephesians: “I pray that you, being rooted and firmly established in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height and depth of God’s love, and to know the Messiah’s love that surpasses knowledge, so you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17b-19 I once was broken, but I have been set free because God has always loved me. I am no longer the wilted flower, I am a child of God who knows she is loved and I am capable of loving others deeper than I’ve ever known because God lives in me. Until next time, May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from NLT and HCSB
Friday, August 23, 2013
My will not your will
“Father, if You are willing, take this cup away from Me—nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.” Luke 22:42
Have you ever said a prayer and finished it with not my will but yours? I have. As a matter of fact I prayed that almost every day this week. Have you ever wanted something but you wanted to make sure you were in God’s will? I have. This past week was heart breaking for me, but also an eye opener. If you have a minute, let me share what happened this week.
I had an interview with a school for my dream job. My dream job is coaching and teaching P.E. As with any extracurricular activity the pay is better than a regular teacher; which is only an added bonus to doing what you love. I started my week off in prayer. I wanted God to give me the right words to say in the interview and to be confident. I continually prayed for His will to be done and not mine. My prayer worked and I had a great interview and was told I would hear back from them by Wednesday or Thursday. So, I continued to pray; God your will not mine. I felt so confident that I was going to get the job that I felt assured my will and His will were the same. There was only one problem. Somewhere between the heartfelt not my will but yours and after the interview; my prayer switched. It was subtle and I didn’t realize it until last night at my kids meet the teacher. At some point Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday not my will but yours became not your will but mine. I wanted my dream job, and I wanted it bad. One night while talking to my husband about praying to God about this job I actually said, “not your will but mine.” I honestly didn’t mean it that way but looking back I think my subconscious was telling me what I really wanted. It was in that moment that I realized I wasn’t seeking God’s will anymore I was throwing a fit like a toddler wanting my way. Not only did I want my way but I wanted it now!
It’s Friday afternoon and I didn’t get my dream job. The funny thing is I’m okay with it. I didn’t think I would be, but God reminded me in a very gentle way what is more important right now. Last night at meet the teacher I saw my two very different children approach their new school nervously. As they both spent time in their new classrooms and meeting their new teachers they became relaxed. By the time we left they were excited and ready for school to start. I realized as I was filling out the paperwork (which gives you writer’s cramp) how much I would miss if I took the coaching job. I wouldn’t take them to school or pick them up. I wouldn’t be able to go to parties or field trips. Nope, I would be the working mom who had some time to spend with her kids but we would have plenty of money. As I laid down to fall asleep last night I thanked God for showing me what was important. Coaching is a great way to impact children, but what good am I if I don’t have the time to teach mine the important things in life? How could I be the mom God created me to be with a schedule as unrelenting as one of a coach? My heart broke when I realized I wasn’t getting my dream job, but it broke my heart more to realize how quickly I was willing to give up the impact I have on my kids by being involved in their school activities. I’m so thankful for a God who looks past my wants and my tantrums and gives me what I need. My lesson for the week: who’s will am I really seeking. It’s a contest battle between flesh and spirit. I truly want God’s will and not mine. Letting go of my worldly dreams and what I wanted to become and allowing God to mold me into who He wants me to become is painful. It will be something I struggle with, but I will praise Him for not giving up on me. The most important thing in my life as a parent is to teach my children about God. “Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
Have you ever said a prayer and finished it with not my will but yours? I have. As a matter of fact I prayed that almost every day this week. Have you ever wanted something but you wanted to make sure you were in God’s will? I have. This past week was heart breaking for me, but also an eye opener. If you have a minute, let me share what happened this week.
I had an interview with a school for my dream job. My dream job is coaching and teaching P.E. As with any extracurricular activity the pay is better than a regular teacher; which is only an added bonus to doing what you love. I started my week off in prayer. I wanted God to give me the right words to say in the interview and to be confident. I continually prayed for His will to be done and not mine. My prayer worked and I had a great interview and was told I would hear back from them by Wednesday or Thursday. So, I continued to pray; God your will not mine. I felt so confident that I was going to get the job that I felt assured my will and His will were the same. There was only one problem. Somewhere between the heartfelt not my will but yours and after the interview; my prayer switched. It was subtle and I didn’t realize it until last night at my kids meet the teacher. At some point Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday not my will but yours became not your will but mine. I wanted my dream job, and I wanted it bad. One night while talking to my husband about praying to God about this job I actually said, “not your will but mine.” I honestly didn’t mean it that way but looking back I think my subconscious was telling me what I really wanted. It was in that moment that I realized I wasn’t seeking God’s will anymore I was throwing a fit like a toddler wanting my way. Not only did I want my way but I wanted it now!
It’s Friday afternoon and I didn’t get my dream job. The funny thing is I’m okay with it. I didn’t think I would be, but God reminded me in a very gentle way what is more important right now. Last night at meet the teacher I saw my two very different children approach their new school nervously. As they both spent time in their new classrooms and meeting their new teachers they became relaxed. By the time we left they were excited and ready for school to start. I realized as I was filling out the paperwork (which gives you writer’s cramp) how much I would miss if I took the coaching job. I wouldn’t take them to school or pick them up. I wouldn’t be able to go to parties or field trips. Nope, I would be the working mom who had some time to spend with her kids but we would have plenty of money. As I laid down to fall asleep last night I thanked God for showing me what was important. Coaching is a great way to impact children, but what good am I if I don’t have the time to teach mine the important things in life? How could I be the mom God created me to be with a schedule as unrelenting as one of a coach? My heart broke when I realized I wasn’t getting my dream job, but it broke my heart more to realize how quickly I was willing to give up the impact I have on my kids by being involved in their school activities. I’m so thankful for a God who looks past my wants and my tantrums and gives me what I need. My lesson for the week: who’s will am I really seeking. It’s a contest battle between flesh and spirit. I truly want God’s will and not mine. Letting go of my worldly dreams and what I wanted to become and allowing God to mold me into who He wants me to become is painful. It will be something I struggle with, but I will praise Him for not giving up on me. The most important thing in my life as a parent is to teach my children about God. “Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
*Bible verses taken from HCSB
Friday, August 16, 2013
People Pleaser
“Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10
Can you please people and please God? Can you please God and please people? Can you please people and not please God? Can you please God and not please people? Have I confused you yet? I almost confused myself, no really, read each question by itself and then answer it. If you think like I do, you get four yeses. Why all the questions? Who knows, but I like to think and you just read what my mind does pretty regularly…scary…I know. :) On a more serious note, I tend to be a people pleaser. I always have been and though I’m working on it, I probably will always have a tendency to want to please others. I want approval from others and this is where I have to be careful. The only one I should seek approval from is The One and only God. When I realized this, my life started to have less stress in it and I became happier. The verse above from Galatians speaks to me over and over again. “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10 This verse makes it seem like we aren't here to please men, and truthfully we aren't, but that’s another thought. :) In order to know if you are doing something to please men or God you have to look in your heart and sometimes you have to look deep in your heart.
We learn at an early age how to get approval from others. Think about when a baby does something and his/her parents clap and smile. The baby does it again, with same response from the parents. Soon, it becomes a game and so the start of seeking approval begins. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but you can trace seeking approval back to being a baby. There are two verses that I found to be thought provoking and wanted to share with you. The first verse comes from Romans, “Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.” Romans 8:8 Who has a sinful nature? Everyone is born with a sinful nature, but once you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal savior the old sinful nature is gone. So, any good work you do before you are saved will not please God. In this instance you would be pleasing men with the good work you do, but you are not pleasing God. Once you are saved can you still please men but not please God? Yes, we can do a great act of kindness but if we do it for the wrong reasons (approval of men) then it is not pleasing to God. We can fool others and even ourselves but God cannot be fooled. He knows our hearts. I used to seek approval of others; I would do something good and want the pat on the back. I’m not saying you shouldn't give credit where credit is due. I am saying that you shouldn't do good deeds just for the approval of others. We should be seeking approval from God and then we will find that others approve of our good works (most of the time). “When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.” Proverbs 16:7 When we live our lives in such a way that the Lord finds it pleasing, then we are able to be at peace with even our enemies. I bet you can think of one person, who is not very pleasing to be around. I’ll give you a minute…………….. OK, got that person in mind? If we were to be Christ like, which means kind, gentle, and humble to name a few of his characteristics; do you think this person would start acting differently toward/around you? Maybe, maybe not, but one thing is for certain, you would have the approval of God.
In today’s culture it’s very easy to get caught up in what you look like, how much you have, and if you have the newest whatever. We want these things because we want approval of men. We want people to like us, and for most of us we tend to approve of people who like what we like and have what we have. This is the world’s view of people and how the world chooses to approve people. It’s not easy when you are not approved of because you lack the newest whatever. Instead of focusing on approval of others; focus on approval from God. When you stop and think about people pleasers ( I am one) they want others to like them and ultimately that is the same as approval from others. As I mentioned earlier this is something I am working on. I pray over more things than I ever have before and I find I am less stressed. When we spend time in prayer and read our Bible we learn what pleases God and how we should reflect Christ in our lives. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 When you are walking with God you have His approval and the approval from others will come, but don’t put the approval from others first. As a self-proclaimed people pleaser this doesn't always come easy but knowing that I am in God’s hands and He approves of me softens the blow when others don’t approve of me. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
* Bible verses taken from NIV and HCSB
Can you please people and please God? Can you please God and please people? Can you please people and not please God? Can you please God and not please people? Have I confused you yet? I almost confused myself, no really, read each question by itself and then answer it. If you think like I do, you get four yeses. Why all the questions? Who knows, but I like to think and you just read what my mind does pretty regularly…scary…I know. :) On a more serious note, I tend to be a people pleaser. I always have been and though I’m working on it, I probably will always have a tendency to want to please others. I want approval from others and this is where I have to be careful. The only one I should seek approval from is The One and only God. When I realized this, my life started to have less stress in it and I became happier. The verse above from Galatians speaks to me over and over again. “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10 This verse makes it seem like we aren't here to please men, and truthfully we aren't, but that’s another thought. :) In order to know if you are doing something to please men or God you have to look in your heart and sometimes you have to look deep in your heart.
We learn at an early age how to get approval from others. Think about when a baby does something and his/her parents clap and smile. The baby does it again, with same response from the parents. Soon, it becomes a game and so the start of seeking approval begins. I’m not saying this is a bad thing, but you can trace seeking approval back to being a baby. There are two verses that I found to be thought provoking and wanted to share with you. The first verse comes from Romans, “Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God.” Romans 8:8 Who has a sinful nature? Everyone is born with a sinful nature, but once you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal savior the old sinful nature is gone. So, any good work you do before you are saved will not please God. In this instance you would be pleasing men with the good work you do, but you are not pleasing God. Once you are saved can you still please men but not please God? Yes, we can do a great act of kindness but if we do it for the wrong reasons (approval of men) then it is not pleasing to God. We can fool others and even ourselves but God cannot be fooled. He knows our hearts. I used to seek approval of others; I would do something good and want the pat on the back. I’m not saying you shouldn't give credit where credit is due. I am saying that you shouldn't do good deeds just for the approval of others. We should be seeking approval from God and then we will find that others approve of our good works (most of the time). “When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.” Proverbs 16:7 When we live our lives in such a way that the Lord finds it pleasing, then we are able to be at peace with even our enemies. I bet you can think of one person, who is not very pleasing to be around. I’ll give you a minute…………….. OK, got that person in mind? If we were to be Christ like, which means kind, gentle, and humble to name a few of his characteristics; do you think this person would start acting differently toward/around you? Maybe, maybe not, but one thing is for certain, you would have the approval of God.
In today’s culture it’s very easy to get caught up in what you look like, how much you have, and if you have the newest whatever. We want these things because we want approval of men. We want people to like us, and for most of us we tend to approve of people who like what we like and have what we have. This is the world’s view of people and how the world chooses to approve people. It’s not easy when you are not approved of because you lack the newest whatever. Instead of focusing on approval of others; focus on approval from God. When you stop and think about people pleasers ( I am one) they want others to like them and ultimately that is the same as approval from others. As I mentioned earlier this is something I am working on. I pray over more things than I ever have before and I find I am less stressed. When we spend time in prayer and read our Bible we learn what pleases God and how we should reflect Christ in our lives. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.” Ephesians 5:8-10 When you are walking with God you have His approval and the approval from others will come, but don’t put the approval from others first. As a self-proclaimed people pleaser this doesn't always come easy but knowing that I am in God’s hands and He approves of me softens the blow when others don’t approve of me. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you.” Numbers 6:24
* Bible verses taken from NIV and HCSB
Friday, August 9, 2013
Oh, No You Didn't
“Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper, than capturing a city.” Proverbs 16:32
This week I have struggled with keeping my emotions and feelings in check. As the week progressed I started looking up scripture that dealt with emotions and feelings. There were several verses that stuck out but one story that we all know from the garden of Gethsemane struck a chord with me. If you read Matthew 26 you will find that it’s a few days before Jesus’ death and takes you through Peter denying Jesus. Peter’s denial isn't what struck me though, nope; it was when Jesus’ companion cut off a man’s ear. “Friend,’ Jesus asked him, ‘why have you come?’ Then they came up, took hold of Jesus, and arrested Him. At that moment one of those with Jesus reached out his hand and drew his sword. He struck the high priest’s slave and cut off his ear.” Matthew 26:50-51 Obviously, emotions were running high at this point and that was a reaction to prevent Jesus from being arrested. It doesn't say in Matthew who cut off the slave’s ear so I did some digging and found that it was Peter. In the book of John chapter 18 verse 10 tells us that it was Peter who drew the sword and cut his ear off. When I read that earlier this week, my thought was the slave was probably thinking…Oh, NO you didn't! Jesus probably looked down at the ground knowing what was going to happen but not able to control his friend’s emotions, but he did tell him to put the sword away.
Have you ever had a Peter moment? You know, one where you spoke or acted before thinking? I know I have, and sadly once you've said or done something you can’t take it back. When I have days or weeks like this past one where my emotions/feelings seem to be hard to keep in check I turn to the Bible and think of the truths that lie within it. There has been plenty of times that I would get worked up over something because I think this is how somebody feels about me and most of the time it’s just not true. Sometimes, I can spin situations and conversations so many ways that it’s hard to separate the facts from my thoughts. Before I started reading my Bible and trying to walk with Jesus I would react on the situations I had spun in my head. As I've gotten older I have learned to stop, pray, think about what Jesus would say/do and then move on. Thankfully, it has saved me from being a total jerk, but there are still times when I don’t stop and think. Then there are times when I do stop and think but it doesn't take long and I’m back to spinning the what ifs, whys and hows. I struggle with negativity and self-value so it doesn't take much for me to let my mind wander off into the falsehood the devil would like for me to believe. You see, if he can keep your mind occupied on the what ifs and the whys and on yourself he is able to keep you from doing God’s will. You can’t focus on yourself and help others.
Through me reading the Bible and hearing past sermons I know that I can’t trust my emotions or feelings. Jeremiah tells of how deceitful the heart is. “The heart is more deceitful than anything else, and incurable—who can understand it?” Jeremiah 17:9 Kinda ironic isn't it? I mean, we feel so strongly with our heart, but yet it is deceitful. A lot of people say listen to your heart, but Jeremiah says who can understand it (heart). If your heart is deceitful and you can’t understand it, then should we “listen” to it? Don’t trust yourself when it comes to the things that stir up strong emotions. Turn to the Bible instead and see what it says. The more you fill your heart and mind with God’s word the more you will be able to react the way God would want you to and not with raw emotion. Luke says that what is in your heart will come out of your mouth. So, if you have good (God’s word) in your heart these things will come out. Be aware though, if you have evil in your heart evil will come out. “A good man produces good out of the good storeroom of his heart. An evil man produces evil out of the evil storeroom, for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” Luke 6:45 Inevitably, people are going to say and do things that will upset you. It is up to you on how you react to what they say and do. You can react like Peter and do damage to someone before you've had time to think about it or you can stay calm. “Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper, than capturing a city.” Proverbs 16:32 Be patient with others and when your emotions are in full swing keep turning your situation over to God. At some point you have to give it to him and leave it but until your mind stops spinning the situation or you are able to be at peace just keep giving it to God. Always remember true love is shown through action, not words. How we treat people, no matter the situation we are in, is when people can see if God is in us. “Little children, we must not love with word or speech, but with truth and action. This is how we will know we belong to the truth and will convince our conscience in His presence, even if our conscience condemns us, that God is greater than our conscience, and He knows all things.” 1 John 3:18-20 Our feelings and emotions can be hard to control and often times so easy to react on, but today I ask you to stop and before you say or cause someone to say, “Oh, No you didn't”; think how God would want you to react. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you” Numbers 6:24
* Bible verses taken from HCSB
This week I have struggled with keeping my emotions and feelings in check. As the week progressed I started looking up scripture that dealt with emotions and feelings. There were several verses that stuck out but one story that we all know from the garden of Gethsemane struck a chord with me. If you read Matthew 26 you will find that it’s a few days before Jesus’ death and takes you through Peter denying Jesus. Peter’s denial isn't what struck me though, nope; it was when Jesus’ companion cut off a man’s ear. “Friend,’ Jesus asked him, ‘why have you come?’ Then they came up, took hold of Jesus, and arrested Him. At that moment one of those with Jesus reached out his hand and drew his sword. He struck the high priest’s slave and cut off his ear.” Matthew 26:50-51 Obviously, emotions were running high at this point and that was a reaction to prevent Jesus from being arrested. It doesn't say in Matthew who cut off the slave’s ear so I did some digging and found that it was Peter. In the book of John chapter 18 verse 10 tells us that it was Peter who drew the sword and cut his ear off. When I read that earlier this week, my thought was the slave was probably thinking…Oh, NO you didn't! Jesus probably looked down at the ground knowing what was going to happen but not able to control his friend’s emotions, but he did tell him to put the sword away.
Have you ever had a Peter moment? You know, one where you spoke or acted before thinking? I know I have, and sadly once you've said or done something you can’t take it back. When I have days or weeks like this past one where my emotions/feelings seem to be hard to keep in check I turn to the Bible and think of the truths that lie within it. There has been plenty of times that I would get worked up over something because I think this is how somebody feels about me and most of the time it’s just not true. Sometimes, I can spin situations and conversations so many ways that it’s hard to separate the facts from my thoughts. Before I started reading my Bible and trying to walk with Jesus I would react on the situations I had spun in my head. As I've gotten older I have learned to stop, pray, think about what Jesus would say/do and then move on. Thankfully, it has saved me from being a total jerk, but there are still times when I don’t stop and think. Then there are times when I do stop and think but it doesn't take long and I’m back to spinning the what ifs, whys and hows. I struggle with negativity and self-value so it doesn't take much for me to let my mind wander off into the falsehood the devil would like for me to believe. You see, if he can keep your mind occupied on the what ifs and the whys and on yourself he is able to keep you from doing God’s will. You can’t focus on yourself and help others.
Through me reading the Bible and hearing past sermons I know that I can’t trust my emotions or feelings. Jeremiah tells of how deceitful the heart is. “The heart is more deceitful than anything else, and incurable—who can understand it?” Jeremiah 17:9 Kinda ironic isn't it? I mean, we feel so strongly with our heart, but yet it is deceitful. A lot of people say listen to your heart, but Jeremiah says who can understand it (heart). If your heart is deceitful and you can’t understand it, then should we “listen” to it? Don’t trust yourself when it comes to the things that stir up strong emotions. Turn to the Bible instead and see what it says. The more you fill your heart and mind with God’s word the more you will be able to react the way God would want you to and not with raw emotion. Luke says that what is in your heart will come out of your mouth. So, if you have good (God’s word) in your heart these things will come out. Be aware though, if you have evil in your heart evil will come out. “A good man produces good out of the good storeroom of his heart. An evil man produces evil out of the evil storeroom, for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” Luke 6:45 Inevitably, people are going to say and do things that will upset you. It is up to you on how you react to what they say and do. You can react like Peter and do damage to someone before you've had time to think about it or you can stay calm. “Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper, than capturing a city.” Proverbs 16:32 Be patient with others and when your emotions are in full swing keep turning your situation over to God. At some point you have to give it to him and leave it but until your mind stops spinning the situation or you are able to be at peace just keep giving it to God. Always remember true love is shown through action, not words. How we treat people, no matter the situation we are in, is when people can see if God is in us. “Little children, we must not love with word or speech, but with truth and action. This is how we will know we belong to the truth and will convince our conscience in His presence, even if our conscience condemns us, that God is greater than our conscience, and He knows all things.” 1 John 3:18-20 Our feelings and emotions can be hard to control and often times so easy to react on, but today I ask you to stop and before you say or cause someone to say, “Oh, No you didn't”; think how God would want you to react. Until next time, “May Yahweh bless you and protect you” Numbers 6:24
* Bible verses taken from HCSB
Friday, August 2, 2013
Who is in front of you?
“Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” John 20:27
Have you ever felt like you were a day late and a dollar short? How about being blessed with something only to find out it won’t be yours long? That’s how I feel right now. I talked last week of a regret I have. This regret is new and I haven’t been able to let it go. I’m hoping by writing I’ll be able to completely let go and give it to God. So, please bear with me as I write.
Has God ever put someone in your path repeatedly? Did he nudge you to reach out to them? That’s what happened to me. If you will, let me tell you my situation. I have recently become close to a person who God had put in my path several times, but not until now did I listen to His voice. What’s the big deal you ask? Had I listened two years ago or even this past year (when God’s voice was really loud) I would've realized that a friend was right in front me and not just an acquaintance. I would've enjoyed a friendship with someone who lives close by but instead I will have a friendship with someone who’s several hours away. So, what’s the big deal-stop whining. :)
My point is don’t be like Thomas in the bold verse above and doubt what you see or what God wants you to do. I was afraid to reach out to someone, to get to know them because I was afraid of rejection. I was afraid of what this person thought of me. We are not called to be timid or afraid of others. “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Being filled with the Holy Spirit we should be courageous and bold in all that we do, especially if it’s God’s will. God has a way of putting people in your path for you to reach out to even if you don’t realize it or are flat out ignoring Him. I can honestly say my experience was both. At first I didn't think anything of our paths crossing but then I clearly heard His voice and ignored it. I was stuck in fear and playing out situations that were false. That’s the devils way of getting you to not do God’s will.
So, I make this plea……don’t wait until it’s too late to receive the blessing God is trying to give you now. When you hear his voice, listen and obey. Be brave like Peter and step out on the water with Jesus. “Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” Matthew 14:28-29 We know Peter became frightened and started to sink, but the point is Peter got out of the boat! When Peter was brave he experienced a miracle…he walked on water! God is waiting for you to open his gift, to experience a miracle. He wants to bless you. Will you listen to His voice and truly see who is in front of you? Take time to see if there is a reason why your paths keep crossing. Be courageous and do what He tells you, even when you are full of fear and doubt. Like Peter, God will reach out his hand and give you the grace you need-just call on His name. “But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:30-31 Don’t be so caught up in your own world you pass up all the blessings God has for you. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
Have you ever felt like you were a day late and a dollar short? How about being blessed with something only to find out it won’t be yours long? That’s how I feel right now. I talked last week of a regret I have. This regret is new and I haven’t been able to let it go. I’m hoping by writing I’ll be able to completely let go and give it to God. So, please bear with me as I write.
Has God ever put someone in your path repeatedly? Did he nudge you to reach out to them? That’s what happened to me. If you will, let me tell you my situation. I have recently become close to a person who God had put in my path several times, but not until now did I listen to His voice. What’s the big deal you ask? Had I listened two years ago or even this past year (when God’s voice was really loud) I would've realized that a friend was right in front me and not just an acquaintance. I would've enjoyed a friendship with someone who lives close by but instead I will have a friendship with someone who’s several hours away. So, what’s the big deal-stop whining. :)
My point is don’t be like Thomas in the bold verse above and doubt what you see or what God wants you to do. I was afraid to reach out to someone, to get to know them because I was afraid of rejection. I was afraid of what this person thought of me. We are not called to be timid or afraid of others. “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Being filled with the Holy Spirit we should be courageous and bold in all that we do, especially if it’s God’s will. God has a way of putting people in your path for you to reach out to even if you don’t realize it or are flat out ignoring Him. I can honestly say my experience was both. At first I didn't think anything of our paths crossing but then I clearly heard His voice and ignored it. I was stuck in fear and playing out situations that were false. That’s the devils way of getting you to not do God’s will.
So, I make this plea……don’t wait until it’s too late to receive the blessing God is trying to give you now. When you hear his voice, listen and obey. Be brave like Peter and step out on the water with Jesus. “Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” Matthew 14:28-29 We know Peter became frightened and started to sink, but the point is Peter got out of the boat! When Peter was brave he experienced a miracle…he walked on water! God is waiting for you to open his gift, to experience a miracle. He wants to bless you. Will you listen to His voice and truly see who is in front of you? Take time to see if there is a reason why your paths keep crossing. Be courageous and do what He tells you, even when you are full of fear and doubt. Like Peter, God will reach out his hand and give you the grace you need-just call on His name. “But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:30-31 Don’t be so caught up in your own world you pass up all the blessings God has for you. Until next time may God Bless you and Keep you.
*Bible verses taken from NIV and NASB
Enjoy this song by Matthew West: My Own Little World
Friday, July 26, 2013
Just Enough
“However, as it is written: No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him-“ 1 Corinthians 2:9
Have you ever been in a situation that you didn't know what was next? How about financially you just couldn't see how ends were going to meet? What about that relationship that’s broken but you’re trying to mend? Maybe you’re not even sure what lie ahead in the near future because you’re making major changes in your life. I have been in each situation and honestly I’m in a couple of them right now. I find myself praying and asking God for guidance and peace. I have found that I may not get the answer I’m looking for right then but if I ask for peace I receive it immediately. God works in mysterious ways and even though I have my doubts about what’s next I know I’m in His hands. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” Isaiah 55:8 Many things have happened in my life to cause me to stop and wonder why. As I've gotten older and drawn closer to God the only answer I have is God doesn't always tell us why, but He gives us just enough to keep going.
I have heard that life is like a puzzle and I often times picture my life as a puzzle. Mainly because the path I’m on right now is puzzling, but I know I’m in God’s will so I trust in him. How many of you would agree hindsight is 20/20? I actually told my husband that exact phrase the other night when talking about one of my regrets. I look at my life as an incomplete puzzle. Behind me is a beautiful master piece of my birth, early childhood, the teen years and my twenties, but the master piece isn't finished. Why? Well, because I’m still living. There are pieces that are missing and some that are falling into place every minute of every hour of every day. The frustrating part is I can’t see where the missing pieces go or what they even look like. Why? I’m not the one putting it together, true it’s my life and I make decisions daily but God is the true author of my life. Only He can see the bigger picture. He can see where the missing pieces go and what needs to happen now to make that happen later. Just when you feel like you’re never going to be able to make ends meet, or mend that relationship, or see what change is coming; God gives you a glimpse. He gives you an answer. A check arrives in the mail for a $150 refund and it’s enough to pay the $100 bill that’s due tomorrow. The relationship that has you upset seems to be taking a step in the right direction. You end up in the right place at the right time and you see the change is truly for the better. These are all little things that can be written off as coincidence but that’s God giving you just enough to keep going. When we finally get through the financial struggle or the change in our life we can look back and clearly see God’s hand prints in our lives. I’m usually thankful that I didn't see the whole picture and was only given one piece at a time. Why? Two reasons, (1) I wouldn't have depended on God for anything if I could see the whole picture. (2) I wouldn't be where I am today, because I would've stopped at the first sign of struggle. The best thing about looking back is you can see how much you have grown in your faith. As I look back over the years I see times of growth and times where my faith was stagnant.
There is a lot to be learned in the Gospels. We've all heard the story of Jesus feeding thousands at a time with two fish and five loaves of bread. I took some time and read the story from John’s perspective and found it interesting that the disciples didn't think Jesus could feed thousands with so little to eat. “Another of his disciples, Andrew Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, ‘Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” John 6:8-9 How often do we look at what we have and say how is this going to work? Do you know the rest of the story from John? Jesus took the loaves and the fish gave thanks and started passing out the food. Don’t you know the disciples were sweating it. I bet they were thinking the ones who don’t get to eat are going to stone us. I know I would've been thinking that, but look at what happened. Once everyone had eaten and was full Jesus told the disciples to pick up the rest of the food so nothing would go to waste. They had twelve baskets of bread leftover. “When they were full, He told His disciples, ‘Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.’ So they collected them and filled 12 baskets with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten.” John 6:12-13 Many times we look at our lives, at our current situation and say how can this work. When we give thanks for what we have and give it to God he will make sure there is enough. More often than not he makes sure there’s more than just enough. So, today as you look at your life and at the situation(s) you’re in will you thank God for giving you just enough to make it through? And once you’re through it all and can look back I pray that you can see He actually gave you more than just enough. Until next time may God Bless You and Keep You.
*Bible verses from NIV and HCSB
Have you ever been in a situation that you didn't know what was next? How about financially you just couldn't see how ends were going to meet? What about that relationship that’s broken but you’re trying to mend? Maybe you’re not even sure what lie ahead in the near future because you’re making major changes in your life. I have been in each situation and honestly I’m in a couple of them right now. I find myself praying and asking God for guidance and peace. I have found that I may not get the answer I’m looking for right then but if I ask for peace I receive it immediately. God works in mysterious ways and even though I have my doubts about what’s next I know I’m in His hands. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” Isaiah 55:8 Many things have happened in my life to cause me to stop and wonder why. As I've gotten older and drawn closer to God the only answer I have is God doesn't always tell us why, but He gives us just enough to keep going.
I have heard that life is like a puzzle and I often times picture my life as a puzzle. Mainly because the path I’m on right now is puzzling, but I know I’m in God’s will so I trust in him. How many of you would agree hindsight is 20/20? I actually told my husband that exact phrase the other night when talking about one of my regrets. I look at my life as an incomplete puzzle. Behind me is a beautiful master piece of my birth, early childhood, the teen years and my twenties, but the master piece isn't finished. Why? Well, because I’m still living. There are pieces that are missing and some that are falling into place every minute of every hour of every day. The frustrating part is I can’t see where the missing pieces go or what they even look like. Why? I’m not the one putting it together, true it’s my life and I make decisions daily but God is the true author of my life. Only He can see the bigger picture. He can see where the missing pieces go and what needs to happen now to make that happen later. Just when you feel like you’re never going to be able to make ends meet, or mend that relationship, or see what change is coming; God gives you a glimpse. He gives you an answer. A check arrives in the mail for a $150 refund and it’s enough to pay the $100 bill that’s due tomorrow. The relationship that has you upset seems to be taking a step in the right direction. You end up in the right place at the right time and you see the change is truly for the better. These are all little things that can be written off as coincidence but that’s God giving you just enough to keep going. When we finally get through the financial struggle or the change in our life we can look back and clearly see God’s hand prints in our lives. I’m usually thankful that I didn't see the whole picture and was only given one piece at a time. Why? Two reasons, (1) I wouldn't have depended on God for anything if I could see the whole picture. (2) I wouldn't be where I am today, because I would've stopped at the first sign of struggle. The best thing about looking back is you can see how much you have grown in your faith. As I look back over the years I see times of growth and times where my faith was stagnant.
There is a lot to be learned in the Gospels. We've all heard the story of Jesus feeding thousands at a time with two fish and five loaves of bread. I took some time and read the story from John’s perspective and found it interesting that the disciples didn't think Jesus could feed thousands with so little to eat. “Another of his disciples, Andrew Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, ‘Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” John 6:8-9 How often do we look at what we have and say how is this going to work? Do you know the rest of the story from John? Jesus took the loaves and the fish gave thanks and started passing out the food. Don’t you know the disciples were sweating it. I bet they were thinking the ones who don’t get to eat are going to stone us. I know I would've been thinking that, but look at what happened. Once everyone had eaten and was full Jesus told the disciples to pick up the rest of the food so nothing would go to waste. They had twelve baskets of bread leftover. “When they were full, He told His disciples, ‘Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.’ So they collected them and filled 12 baskets with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten.” John 6:12-13 Many times we look at our lives, at our current situation and say how can this work. When we give thanks for what we have and give it to God he will make sure there is enough. More often than not he makes sure there’s more than just enough. So, today as you look at your life and at the situation(s) you’re in will you thank God for giving you just enough to make it through? And once you’re through it all and can look back I pray that you can see He actually gave you more than just enough. Until next time may God Bless You and Keep You.
*Bible verses from NIV and HCSB
Thursday, July 18, 2013
What are you afraid of....losing?
“He will be like a tree planted by water: it sends its roots out toward a stream, it doesn't fear when heat comes, and its foliage remains green. It will not worry in a year of drought or cease producing fruit.” Jeremiah 17:8
What comes to your mind when I ask, what do you fear? Most likely it’s snakes, heights, spiders or even germs. Maybe even bugs in general. I bet the first thing that came to your mind wasn't God. Don’t worry, I’m not judging you…to be honest fearing God isn't the first thing that comes to my mind when I’m asked what do you fear. It is written though that we should fear God and it’s actually definition number 4 on dictionary.com. According to dictionary.com fear is “reverential awe toward God.” 1 Samuel 12:24 says, “Above all, fear the Lord and worship Him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things He has done for you.” Did you know according to David in Psalm 111:10 fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 I don’t know about you but fearing the Lord and wisdom don’t seem to go together. So let me put it like this, once we know that snakes bite and some are poisonous we become fearful on being bitten by a snake. In fearing God, it’s not because he will harm us but because we know the power that he possesses. We know we should fear no one or nothing except the Lord. “The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom should I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1
I’m full of questions today, so let me ask you one more question. What are you afraid of losing? This question is asked by Jennie Allen in her book, "Anything.” This question has made me think about what I fear and what can I do to change that. The definition of afraid is “feeling fear; filled with apprehension.” So what do I fear losing? The first thing that I fear losing is my kids and then my husband. The one thing that gives me peace and calms my fear is knowing that God loves them more than I do and I will never be able to love them more than Him. After all, God is love, and no matter how hard I try I can’t love them more than a being that is love. With that thought in mind, I will ask again, what are you afraid of losing? Most people would say family, friends, career and belongings (i.e. home, car, and phone :) ) My view on this question has started to change. Why? Because I know that one, God loves me, my family, and my friends and two; my belongings are just things. They can be replaced if lost. Jennie Allen asks this question to point out that we need to pray about giving whatever or whomever it is we are afraid of losing to God. In other words, give your relationships to God, give your house to God, and give your job to God. Start living for God, and showing God’s love to others. Do not be afraid of people or losing them. Be afraid of what will happen if you did not show them God’s love and they were to die. Be afraid of the one who can condemn them. Luke says it pretty bluntly in the Bible, “But I will show you the One to fear: Fear Him who has authority to throw people into hell after death. Yes, I say to you, this is the One to fear!” Luke 12:5 I’m not saying this to scare you or cause you to repent…which I hope you would repent if you feel led to do so. I’m saying this to open your eyes like Jennie did mine. What if we gave God our fears, and asked for courage to show His love to others? My friends, that’s what I want to do. I want to live a life that shows others God’s love. I want to leave a legacy that points to God; not a legacy that points to the things I collected here on earth. Do I want the things of this world yes, but do I want others to know God more than I want those things….YES!!! I can’t sit here and say that happened over night, because it has happened over time. My thoughts about this life and why I’m really here has changed. I pray that it continues to change and that some way, somehow me writing this silly blog can open your eyes…to see or at least make you start to think about why you are here and how you can live for God and how much He really loves you. As I mentioned last week, change isn't easy and fear is one of the biggest setbacks. “The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected.” Proverbs 29:25 Will your loved ones die? Yes. Will you lose your house to a fire, flood or tornado? Possibly. Can you rest at night knowing that you are in the loving arms of your Father? I sure hope so. If you truly love God and want to do His will….start by giving Him your fear and what you are afraid of losing. You can do it, step by step...day by day...moment by moment. Then live like you’re not afraid of losing it because God has so much more in store for you…if you’ll give it to Him. Be like the tree in the bold verse above, allow God to supply ALL your needs and let Him worry with ALL your troubles. He will sustain you in everything. His blessings are more abundant than we could ever imagine. Letting go and giving God your fears and asking for the courage to make the change to live for God is scary, but O, how this world would change if we all made a point of living it for HIM. I apologize for this post being so long…sadly, it could be longer, but I know a little boy who wants to spend some time with his mommy. Until next time, may God Bless you and Keep you.
* Bible verses used are from HCSB
* Definitions are from dictionary.com
What comes to your mind when I ask, what do you fear? Most likely it’s snakes, heights, spiders or even germs. Maybe even bugs in general. I bet the first thing that came to your mind wasn't God. Don’t worry, I’m not judging you…to be honest fearing God isn't the first thing that comes to my mind when I’m asked what do you fear. It is written though that we should fear God and it’s actually definition number 4 on dictionary.com. According to dictionary.com fear is “reverential awe toward God.” 1 Samuel 12:24 says, “Above all, fear the Lord and worship Him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things He has done for you.” Did you know according to David in Psalm 111:10 fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 I don’t know about you but fearing the Lord and wisdom don’t seem to go together. So let me put it like this, once we know that snakes bite and some are poisonous we become fearful on being bitten by a snake. In fearing God, it’s not because he will harm us but because we know the power that he possesses. We know we should fear no one or nothing except the Lord. “The Lord is my light and my salvation-whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom should I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1
I’m full of questions today, so let me ask you one more question. What are you afraid of losing? This question is asked by Jennie Allen in her book, "Anything.” This question has made me think about what I fear and what can I do to change that. The definition of afraid is “feeling fear; filled with apprehension.” So what do I fear losing? The first thing that I fear losing is my kids and then my husband. The one thing that gives me peace and calms my fear is knowing that God loves them more than I do and I will never be able to love them more than Him. After all, God is love, and no matter how hard I try I can’t love them more than a being that is love. With that thought in mind, I will ask again, what are you afraid of losing? Most people would say family, friends, career and belongings (i.e. home, car, and phone :) ) My view on this question has started to change. Why? Because I know that one, God loves me, my family, and my friends and two; my belongings are just things. They can be replaced if lost. Jennie Allen asks this question to point out that we need to pray about giving whatever or whomever it is we are afraid of losing to God. In other words, give your relationships to God, give your house to God, and give your job to God. Start living for God, and showing God’s love to others. Do not be afraid of people or losing them. Be afraid of what will happen if you did not show them God’s love and they were to die. Be afraid of the one who can condemn them. Luke says it pretty bluntly in the Bible, “But I will show you the One to fear: Fear Him who has authority to throw people into hell after death. Yes, I say to you, this is the One to fear!” Luke 12:5 I’m not saying this to scare you or cause you to repent…which I hope you would repent if you feel led to do so. I’m saying this to open your eyes like Jennie did mine. What if we gave God our fears, and asked for courage to show His love to others? My friends, that’s what I want to do. I want to live a life that shows others God’s love. I want to leave a legacy that points to God; not a legacy that points to the things I collected here on earth. Do I want the things of this world yes, but do I want others to know God more than I want those things….YES!!! I can’t sit here and say that happened over night, because it has happened over time. My thoughts about this life and why I’m really here has changed. I pray that it continues to change and that some way, somehow me writing this silly blog can open your eyes…to see or at least make you start to think about why you are here and how you can live for God and how much He really loves you. As I mentioned last week, change isn't easy and fear is one of the biggest setbacks. “The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected.” Proverbs 29:25 Will your loved ones die? Yes. Will you lose your house to a fire, flood or tornado? Possibly. Can you rest at night knowing that you are in the loving arms of your Father? I sure hope so. If you truly love God and want to do His will….start by giving Him your fear and what you are afraid of losing. You can do it, step by step...day by day...moment by moment. Then live like you’re not afraid of losing it because God has so much more in store for you…if you’ll give it to Him. Be like the tree in the bold verse above, allow God to supply ALL your needs and let Him worry with ALL your troubles. He will sustain you in everything. His blessings are more abundant than we could ever imagine. Letting go and giving God your fears and asking for the courage to make the change to live for God is scary, but O, how this world would change if we all made a point of living it for HIM. I apologize for this post being so long…sadly, it could be longer, but I know a little boy who wants to spend some time with his mommy. Until next time, may God Bless you and Keep you.
* Bible verses used are from HCSB
* Definitions are from dictionary.com
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