Looking Back

Since today is the last day of 2009, I'd like you to think on either the lesson you've best learned from God this year, or perhaps one defining thing that has happened in your walk with God.

Mine? This blog! I can't believe how much a part of my life this has become. I've felt for years that God wanted me to write, I just never knew how or had the courage to follow through. This blog has taught me so much. Everything it contains are things I am learning. After all we retain information better when teaching it rather than just reading it. So I'm learning a lot! The verse that spoke the loudest to me on this matter was 1 Timothy 1:12. It is my banner flag for this year:


"I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry."


How would you define 2009 in your life?

Just Me And God

I am at peace right now.


Actually being at peace is something that doesn't come along very often. Don't get me wrong: I have peace all the time which is very evident in my life. I know it's there and working in and through me. It just doesn't seem like there are many times where I relax enough with few goals or plans to enjoy being at peace for long, but this week I am.


This is the week that my whole family is together and is just enjoying being that way. My two older boys are with us and all we are doing is eating, playing games, and watching movies. I love it. I'm doing just enough housework to keep everything from getting bad, but not so much as to be stressing over it. It's really nice.


As I've talked to God about this - actually, apologizing for not writing as much and spending enough time with Him - He's let me know that it's OK. That has greatly added to my peace. This week is a Sabbath for me. During the year I don't take time off to just enjoy the blessings that He has given me. Oh, I thank Him often, but I am always wondering what I should be saying, learning, or doing for Him next. That's what He's called me to do. However, for this week, He's let me relax. I'm taking the time to just thank Him throughout the day for the many blessings He's given me, and you know what the best part is? It's just between me and God. I get to revel in Him personally and intimately for a whole week. 


I am so very blessed.

What About You?

I'd like to hear from you today:

What was your favorite Christmas gift this year?

It may be something that was under the tree, or that blessed you in some way. But whether long or short, I want to hear something from you!

Prayer Request

Today is a great day!! My two older boys are flying in to be with us for a week. Honestly, this is the only present I truly want. We are looking forward to a week of nothing but fun, food, and games.

However, they are also flying and changing planes by themselves with a lay over in Chicago. PLEASE pray for a safe trip, no delays, and excellent weather.

Enjoy all your leftovers today!

Merry Christmas!!!

Today we celebrate the birth of God's proven grace and love: The birth of Jesus the Christ!

Thank you Father for caring enough to go through all this for us. Thank you for all the intimate plans and details You created to point us to the birth of Jesus before He was ever born. You, who laid the foundation of the earth as the morning stars sang (Job 38:6-7), also laid the foundation of salvation in our hearts through the Words you gave the prophets. 


Thank you Jesus for your love and willingness to suffer as one of us for our own sake amidst scorn and contempt. You showed us not only the Truth, but how to love one another; for we were child-like and clueless! You came in the most humble of circumstances to show us how to have little, though You are so very much (Philippians 4:12-13). 


Thank you Spirit for showing us how to have confident power in all humility. You, who are so close to us, have guided me so lovingly - even knowing who I am. You give me the words the Father has to encourage, strengthen, chastise, and confirm me.


Praise to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit on the celebration of the birth of our hope in salvation!!!

That's What We Get

I think the blatant black hole of over commercialization and mad pre-Christmas rush, is a little bit of God's way to get back at us for making it that way.

Tis' the season to learn patience,
Fa-la-la-la-la, La-la-la-la!

Come To Bethlehem And See...

Have you come to Bethlehem?

The deeper meaning of this question has been plaguing me for several days now. Christ came into the world at Bethlehem, but it wasn't just the city- or hamlet. Christ came to us first in the cave of some beasts of burden. Stinking, dumb animals. It was not sanitary. It wasn't even very acceptable back then. So, why did He come there?

Because we need to come to Him first in our stinking, dumb, unsanitary/unworthy, dark humanity. When we come to Him in this manner - acknowledging who we really are - He makes the seemingly impossible possible. Then we can live victoriously through Him. But not until then. Then, in our newborn state, He is our King! He became a newborn so that we could become a newborn again.

Come adore on bended knee, Christ the Lord the newborn King!
Gloria!!!

Slacking

I'll be very honest with you all- I'm slacking. Bad. 

Yes, I've read my Bible when looking up something; and yes, the Lord has been speaking to me and blessing me. But I haven't taken the time much in the last few days to really listen to God, and to really read my Bible, so I'm not going to pretend like I have. Don't worry- I feel awful about it.

These are the times when it does not seem like the most wonderful time of the year. I get so busy with the Christmas season that I spend less time with the reason for the season. Part of me has come to realize that I am a creature of schedules. When I'm thrown off my schedule for too long, I let things go - like reading my Bible - too easily. But that's no excuse, really.

Thank you Lord for Zechariah 1:3!

"So tell the people: This is what the LORD of Hosts says: Return to Me" - this is the declaration of the LORD of Hosts - "and I will return to you, says the LORD of Hosts."

Here I Am To Worship

You know what? 

Yesterday was a really good day of worship. 

Fellowshipping

Singing

Preaching

Serving

Greeting: AM & PM (Yea, God tested me out quick. Remember that one?)

How did you worship?

*Hint- It's not just where you go, or what you say to God, but how you honor Him.

Just Not What I Thought

Yesterday my youngest children watched Old Yeller for the first time, and I was a little apprehensive because Lauren is an animal lover, and Elijah can be very sensitive at times. As a child I remember being devastated when they had to shoot poor Old Yeller -and after he saved them! I almost didn't let them see it because of the aftermath of questions and nightmares I was sure would follow. Yet it didn't quite turn out that way. Instead, about an hour after the movie, there was quite the commotion coming out of the living room: They were pretending they were rabid animals and were attacking each other.

Wasn't I acting like we do sometimes when it comes to sharing the Gospel? We are just so sure we will be turned down, made fun of, and rejected, that we talk ourselves out of telling everyone around us about the Truth. We don't need to concern ourselves about those things because first, it may turn out that the rejection is all in our heads like the kids pity for the dog was in mine. Second, and most important to remember, is that it doesn't matter if we are turned away. They are not rejecting us, but God, as1 Thessalonians 4:8 says: Therefore, the person who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who also gives you His Holy Spirit. In fact, they are not really listening to us at all! Luke 10:16 Whoever listens to you listens to Me. Whoever rejects you rejects Me. And whoever rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.

Why do we fret so over what the Lord has under control? Our job is just to tell (Acts 1:8) and the rest is up to Him. (1 Corinthians 2:10)

Honest Prayer

After needing a secondary detox yesterday in two weeks along with a few other tonics, I totally second my sons prayer last night:
Thank you God for stuffed animals to cuddle with - even though we don't really need them.


Honest prayer and gratitude for every good things is a difficult discipline to master. So, what are you grateful for today?

Julie & Julia.... & Me?

After being told by several people that I needed to see it, I watched the movie Julie & Julia. I think I really liked it!

OK, first positive point is that it didn't have a fairy-tale ending. I was really afraid that the two would meet and become the best of friends till Julia's death. (Which, by the way, I had no idea if she was even still alive. But Hollywood has a way of making the impossible happen, even in an otherwise true story.) Yet, that was not the case. I like that. It's more real.

Negative point number one: Food. God's sense of humor just never ceases.
After watching the movie and staring longingly at my pantry, I just about pulled out every single thing and place it either in the "I can eat" or the "I can eat and die" pile. Grrr. Perhaps I can start a supplementary food contest blog where I give you aspiring cooks a list/picture of the very limited things I can eat and have you figure out a recipe for me.

OK. I've steamed my lobster. Next.

That's the other thing I really enjoyed. Julie just looses it sometimes, and as sadistic as it sounds, we all need to know that. I believe that's why the Bible is filled with so many people who fail. We need the encouragement that if they can make it, we can make it. The funny thing is that as I watched the movie, I related so well with Julie's different milestones: The good, the bad, and the ugly. Why? Because Christian or not, male or female, we are all still human, and God created us to learn and relate to one another. So look around and learn!

Over all, Julie & Julia inspired me. (I'll have to make it part of my library for when serving a pity party.)
1.  Just because you feel you have nothing to say doesn't mean you have nothing to say.
2.  Even if she never meets Julia and I impact only one person's walk with Christ, it's worth it.
3.  All the time she spent cooking made me feel better about all the time I spend writing and researching.
Perhaps that's the key. Passion.

I just wish the Bread of Life came with a little Brie...

My And Mary's Magnificat

I have been overwhelmed by the lavish blessings of my LORD. When He gives beyond what is anticipated, I always want to make sure it is honored as best as possible. But always first - and then continuously - is to praise Him!

Perhaps the season guided my mind along with the Spirit as my heart was reminded of these verses today. I pray you will be as blessed by them as I have been. Please take the time to read them as worship to Yahweh.

Luke 1:45-55
"She who had believed is blessed because what was spoken to her by the Lord will be fulfilled!"


And Mary said:

My soul proclaims

the greatness of hte Lord,

and my spirit has rejoiced

in God my Savior,

because He has looked

with favor

on the humble condition

of His slave.

Surely, from now on

all generations

will call me blessed,

because the Mighty One

has done great things

for me,

and His name is holy.

His mercy is from generation

to generation

on those who fear Him.

He has done a mighty deed

with His arm;

He has scattered the proud

because of the thoughts

of their hearts;

He has toppled the mighty

from their thrones

and exalted the lowly.

He has satisfied the hungry

with good things

and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped 

His servant Israel,

mindful of His mercy,

just as He spoke

to our ancestors,

to Abraham and his

descendants forever."

Amen and Amen! Come soon, again, Lord Jesus!

ZB48FVWKEWK6

Are You A Christian Fobbit?

No, it's not a typo. Fobbit - not Hobbit. 


I was reading a very interesting Fox News article yesterday on military slang words that are brought into everyday use. Words and their definitions have always interested me, especially when their meanings have come through difficult circumstances. Those words just seem richer.


One that piqued my interest has been coined from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Fobbit. This is how it was described in the article:

Maj. Liam Kingdon, who works for the Reserve Officers' Training Corps at the University of Maryland in College Park, 

said he has heard fellow service members referred to as "fobbits." The word is a contraction of Forward Operating Base (FOB) and "hobbit," a creature from The Lord of the Rings known for its sedentary habits.

"It's basically a soldier, sailor or airman who never leaves the base," Kingdon said. "You've got people there 

who leave the base all the time to go on patrol, and you've got people who literally just stay on the base."

Now, it seems to be that the Fobbit's job requires them to stay on base, but what about their free time? Amusingly, this term is already in Wikipedia and answers that question: 

Fobbit is a derogatory term used by coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan to describe 

base working personnel at a Forward Operating Base (FOB). It derives from the mixing of the acronym FOB, 

with the name Hobbit from J. R. R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" universe. 

The implication of the term is that the individual is scared to leave the relative safety of the FOB, 

by way of analogy to Hobbits that had no inclination to leave the Shire and face danger.

This started me thinking about the Church. How many of us are scared to leave the safety of our church building/complex? I have to say that getting into safety groups and singing at the nursing home is nice, but doesn't count. Making shoe boxes for impoverished children around the world is awesome, but what about the impoverished kids who need to be read to at the school in town? Going on group visitation is encouraging, but what about sharing the love of Christ with the frazzled cashier at Walmart? 

We are not to be of this world (Romans 12:2), but are most certainly to be in it (Romans 10:14-17). Staying inside of our comfort zones will make our presence known to some, but we are to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8), not the ends of our pews. It's time to be Frodo...

Search your actions today, and ask the Spirit to reveal it to you: "Am I a Christian Fobbit?"

Psalm Of Encouragement

I love that there is Scripture for every moment of our lives.

Yesterday was rough. As I sat there trying to decide what to post today, all I could think of was that I was the one needing encouragement. That's when I remembered Psalm 116. About a year ago this Psalm touched me while thinking of someone else, so I wrote a note next to it in my Bible that this was an excellent Psalm to give to people with some extra words of encouragement added around or after it as well.
Who knew I would be talking about myself?

Psalm 116
1.   I love the LORD because He has heard my appeal for mercy.
2.   Because He has turned His ear to me, I will call out to Him, as long as I live.
3.   The ropes of death were wrapped around me, and the torments of Sheol overcame me; I encountered trouble and sorrow.
4.   Then I called on the name of the LORD: "LORD, save me!"
5.   The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is compassionate.
6.   The LORD guards the inexperienced; I was helpless and He saved me.
7.   Return to your rest, my soul, for the LORD has been good to you.
8.   For You, LORD, rescued me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.
9.   I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.
10.   I believed, even when I said, "I am severely afflicted."
11.   In my alarm I said, "Everyone is a liar."
12.   How can I repay the LORD all the good He has done for me?
13.   I will take the cup of salvation and worship the LORD.
14.   I will fulfill my vows to the LORD in the presence of His people.
15.   The death of His faithful ones is valuable in the LORD's sight.
16.   LORD, I am indeed Your servant; I am Your servant, the son of Your female servant. You have loosened my bonds.
17.   I will offer You a sacrifice of thanksgiving and will worship the LORD. 
18.   I will fulfill my vows to the LORD, in the very presence of all His people,
19.   In the courts of the LORD's house - within you, Jerusalem. Hallelujah!




The gratitude of the redeemed is in salvation from our Lord. Not in the pleasantries of this lifetime. Praise Him for His faithfulness to us!

Family

This weekend I visited family in Kentucky. Not only was I blessed in fellowshipping with my own flesh and blood, but the Spirit reminded me of more family to visit.

My mother recently moved back up to Kentucky (In case you missed THAT story!), and thus has been attending a new church. I planned my trip this weekend to make sure I could stay for Sunday morning service and meet those she's been worshiping with. Now, as it always seems to happen when visiting a new church, there was a special service, so I was not able to hear the preacher. Yet, I was able to meet several people during Sunday School and the fellowship time.

It was at the beginning of the service though that the Spirit spoke to me. The Pastor opened up with one of my favorite Scriptures. Yes, I know I say that often, but this is one that I've even chosen to describe the women's ministry at my church. Hebrews 10:24-25  Let us... not forsake the assembling of ourselves together as some do but encouraging one another... (apx)

There were two things I learned. The first was a brief glimpse at the reality of my brothers and sisters who gather together all over the world to worship our Lord with one heart and one mind (Acts 2:46-47). I was reminded of how small the box of corporate worship I comprehend is. Though at times we may often feel alone, there are millions who join to worship Him every week. These all are my brothers and sisters. How blessed we are to have such family: What an amazing and awesome God we serve!

The second thing I learned was actually a reminder. Every Christian should visit a church for the first time at least once a year. Why? It's a good reminder. We get so busy fellowshipping with those of our local body that we love and doing our service duties that we often overlook visitors. Now, I'm not saying anything against the church I visited yesterday! They were all very sweet. However, I had forgotten how uncomfortable it is to sit there alone with so many milling around. Every minute feels like ten. I remember this being a passion of mine when joining our church because the memory was fresh. However, as time has passed, I've grown horrible at welcoming people I don't recognize.

It really doesn't take a massive number of people to make a visitor feel welcome either. In fact, if everyone would have spoke to me, I'd have been frazzled and overwhelmed. Really, just one or two people spending their time before worship talking to me with most others waving hello would have been perfect.

Honestly, I think the Lord had these people lovingly remind me of that, because I could see their love for the Lord written all over them!

When was the last time you visited a church where there was no one you knew? Have you ever? Take some time today to pray for the Spirit's prompting to be strong to you the next time you see a visitor at church. Then, make sure to take all the time you can to say hello. If you truly don't have the time, find someone who does and ask them to go chat for a while. For those who are still seeking Christ, that act of love may make all the difference.

Why Do We Sing Christmas Songs?

I've had a thought brewing off and on since around Thanksgiving: Why is there so much Christmas music? Think about it. There is no other holiday that has anywhere near that much music devoted to it - combining both religious and secular - yet year after year artists come out with new Christmas albums.

Why? Why do we sing about chestnuts roasting on an open fire, having ourselves a merry little Christmas, and grandma getting run over by a reindeer? And we love it! (By we, I am including myself.) Nearly everyone goes to some sort of Christmas concert whether they are celebrating the birth of Jesus or not because music just goes with the season.

The first question I feel must be answered is why music in itself so important. Music is truly universal. Technically we don't need it, but we all crave and desire it. Here is an excellent article by pianist Dr. Karl Paulnack which explains beautifully the need for music from a purely human standpoint. Even those who do not recognize God as our Creator understand that music is a intricate part of who we are. Scientists realizing it's importance even came up with a title for the science of human music in the mid 1990's: Biomusicology.

So, we see that music is not just recognized as uniquely human by religious groups but by humanity as a whole: But how does God view it? Singing has been around since the dawn of creation. God is speaking to, or rather fussing at, Job in Job 38:4-7 and mentions the morning stars sang while He laid the cornerstone of the earth! We are also told over and over throughout the Bible to sing praises to God and are given examples of those who do. Psalm 47:6, Colossians 3:16, 1 Chronicles 15:27, 29. And there is even a whole book of the Bible - Psalms -  dedicated to praises sung to the Lord. The book of Revelation tells us of songs yet to be sung in Revelation 5:9, 14:3, and (this is my personal opinion) will be sung by Jesus, the Bright Morning Star! (Revelation 22:16 in reference back to Job 38:7)

It is just the way God wired our souls to speak. Emotions run so strong in song that a single measure can conjure images and emotions long forgotten. Music can bring us to the heights and depths of the indescribable longings of our spirit. Often when words fail us, music will not.

What does this have to do with Christmas music? Christmas is the celebration of the birth of our Salvation. The Creator of this world. The Word. I believe it is wired into our DNA to sing about it, or like Jesus said in Luke 19:40, "He answered, 'I tell you, if they were to keep silent, the stones would cry out!'"

Now Satan can't have that can he? So what does he do? He encourages humans to write as many X-mas songs as possible. Please understand that these songs aren't a sin. I love singing the 12 Days of Christmas and Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer. It's just that they allow us to sing the praises of the season instead of the Savior. When the God shaped hole in all of  us is longing to find Him during the celebration of Jesus birth, we are now given much silly putty to choose from instead. In fact, I think the fact that there is so much secular Christmas music attests to the reality of God.

How would its popularly stand the test of time otherwise?

Labor Pains

There is a blog I have been wanting to write for a few weeks now, but the time was not right. It's nothing earth shattering - just something that occurred to me, yet I have not been able to bring it to fruition. Yesterday, however, I began on it and hope to have it posted tomorrow.

I found this Psalm today which I thought was excellent for explaining the importance of waiting and reflecting on the Lord to get it right: Even if it's induced by Him. This Psalm reflects my moods lately as well, and our need to praise Him for who He is. Pay particular attention to verses 6 and 12, they stood out to me specifically. I pray they are an encouragement to you as well.

Psalm 77:1-20
1.   I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and He will hear me.
2.   In my day of trouble I sought the Lord. My hands were lifted up all night long; I refused to be comforted.
3.   I think of God; I groan; I meditate; my spirit becomes weak.
4.   You have kept me from closing my eyes; I am troubled and can not speak.
5.   I consider days of old, years long past.
6.   At night I remember my music; I meditate in my heart, and my spirit ponders.
7.   "Will the Lord reject forever and never again show favor? 
8.   Has His faithful love ceased forever? Is His promise at an end for all generations?
9.   Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger withheld His compassion?"
10.   So I say, "It is my sorrow that the right hand of the Most High has changed."
11.   I will remember the LORD's works; yes, I will remember Your ancient wonders.
12.   I will reflect on all You have done and meditate on Your actions.
13.   God, Your way is holy. What god is great like God?
14.   You are the God who works wonders; You revealed Your strength among the peoples.
15.   With Your power You redeemed Your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
16.   The waters saw You, God. The waters saw You; they trembled. Even the depths shook.
17.   The clouds poured down water. The storm clouds thundered; Your arrows flashed back and forth.
18.   The sound of Your thunder was in the whirlwind; lightening lit up the world. The earth shook and quaked.
19.   Your way went through the sea, and Your path through the great waters, but Your footprints were unseen. 
20.   You led Your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Those Who Enjoy Unrighteousness

2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
"...They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth in order to be saved. For this reason God sends them a strong delusion so that they will believe what is false, so that all will be condemned - those who did not believe the truth but enjoyed unrighteousness."

Those who didn't believe the truth.
Those who enjoyed unrighteousness.

I'll be honest, I have nothing to say about this other than it breaks my heart.

Have you ever wept over the lost? If not, is your passion for reaching them near what it should be?

Oh Father, break my heart so that I have the passion to be bold in spreading the truth of the Gospel to a world who desperately needs to accept the love of the Truth.

Striving To Be Like King Nebuchadnezzar

Many of us know the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from the book of Daniel, and how King Nebuchadnezzar of the Babylonians sent them into the fiery furnace for refusing to bow down and worship the 90 foot golden statue he made of himself. When seeing four men walking around in the fire and calling the three back out, the King showed respect and awe for the "Most High God" (Daniel 3:26), "the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego" (Daniel 3:28). However, this respect hadn't turned into his own personal faith - yet. So the Lord got his attention.

For now, I'd like to focus on verses 1 & 2 of chapter 4, but take some today to read all of Daniel 4:1-37. (It's one of my favorite chapters in the Old Testament because of the unique way God works to bring to Him the ones He desires.) "King Nebuchadnezzar, To those of every people, nation, and language, who live in all the earth: May your prosperity increase. I am pleased to tell you about the miracles and wonders the Most High God has done for me." Now, if you've read the rest of the chapter, you might wonder why the King doesn't say "what the Most High God has done to me" instead of "for me". Why? Because Nebuchadnezzar recognizes a principle the write of Hebrews shares with us; "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves..." Hebrews12:6, 10. Too often we become so focused on what has happened to us, we miss the blessing of what has happened for us.

King Nebuchadnezzar is willing to tell everyone what happened to him as well; all for the glory of God. He could have just told the world that he had been restored to power, that he had had a little illness, or even that he got a little too big for his britches, but that he now had it under control. But that's not what he did. The King humbled himself before all for the love and glory of The Most High King. Not only that, but he was pleased to tell all.

How often are we willing to lay our lives open before the masses to bring glory to God? We should, for we are here to glorify Him in everything. Do you love Him enough and your pride little enough to do so?

Jeremiah 13:16 "Give glory to the Lord your God before He brings darkness, before your feet stumble on the mountains at dusk. You wait for light, but He brings darkest gloom and makes thick darkness." 

No, I'm Not Perfect... I'm Just Always Right.

How often to do you ask God if you are wrong?

I'm not talking about whether you are in sin or not. I'm talking about an attitude of the heart. When you are obeying what God has called you to do for a season, is your heart in the right season as well? I ask this because we are always asking God what we should do: How often do we ask Him what we should feel, or how we should act? Trust me when I say I am stepping on my own toes on this one as well.

Recently, I was in a situation where no matter what I told someone, they believed it was a totally different scenario. They believed what they wanted to believe I was saying, no matter what angle I came at it. Why? It most likely was easier for them to accept, but I can't really say for sure. They assumed something that wasn't true so that they didn't have to deal with a bigger issue. It's not just me either- others have confided the same.

So how do we make sure we don't fall into this trap? I think the first step is prayer. David says to the Lord in Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way." We must ask God to reveal it to us. Remember: That's the point of needing to be searched- we don't realize it's there.

The next thing is to practice humility. The best way I've found to do this is by serving others- FIRST. This isn't easy, but when we are serving others in righteousness, we seldom have time for self-serving righteousness.  As Christians, we often need to pray for the Spirit to keep us righteous on the inside as well as the out (Matthew 23:28). It would be so easy to become like the religious leaders in Jesus' time if we did not humble ourselves before the Lord and before others often (Matthew 23:13-33).

Please take some time today to listen to the Spirit's guidance as you ask God to search your heart for any offensive way. Ask His forgiveness and then make it right-eous again.

I Know Why...

This is a beautiful illustration of a way God may have worked during Creation. Even though I do not believe in all of it, I love watching this and praising Him the whole time!

Watch till the very end's statement...

Big Bang Theory

"He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also put eternity in their hearts, but man cannot discover the work God has done form beginning to end."
Ecclesiastes 3:11

An Underlined Day

Some days there is just so much going on physically, spiritually, and/or emotionally that there is just no sorting it out. Those are "Underlined Days".

What are you suppose to do?

1.   Get out the Bible you use most often, or find one that you use to use a lot, but haven't since you got the new version.
2.   Open it to where the binding is the weakest.
3.   Start looking for the verses you have underlined or specially marked in the past and read only those.
4.   As you read, see if you can remember why it was marked. What did God have to say to you then?
5.   If a verse reminds you of troubled times past, praise God for His faithfulness in bringing you through. If it brings to mind happier moments, ask Him to comfort you now and rekindle the joy of your salvation even in troubled times.
6.   If you have no clue as to why you marked it, thank Him that His Word is alive. It never changes, but it often comes like a fresh wave. (Don't be sad it's low tide now, just get prepared for high tide later!)

Dear Father in heaven, thank you for my Bible and a good, sharp pencil...

Crowns

Yesterday I had to go to the dentist and get a crown. Well, actually, I was given a temporary one until the real one comes in. The worst part was all the drilling and even getting to the tooth; of course it was one of the ones in the very back. There's nothing quite like lying there with two sets of hands prying open your jaw while your head vibrates from drilling and at the same time having to breath in the burnt bone smell coming from your own mouth.

I don't like going to the dentist.

Later on as I reflected on the fact that I could actually will myself to be still and let strangers do that to me, a thought came to mind: Being a Christian who is living life fully for God is not easy either. Not only do we come up against resistance from the world, but we also have a God  who loves us enough to discipline us (Hebrews 12:5-8). And what will we recieve for enduring this life as His servants?
The crown of life.


"Blessed is a man who endures trials, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that He has promised to those who love Him." James 1:12


I only have my temporary right now in that area as well - His Promise - but one day I will meet my Savior face to face and He will give me my permanent one.

How Are These Verses Good?

I haven't been feeling very well since late Sunday night, so I'd just like to leave you with one of my favorite sets of verses. The odd thing is, I'm not really sure why they are some of my favorite or why they encourage me so.

What do you think?

"For with much wisdom is much sorrow; as knowledge increases, grief increases.


...But beyond these, my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body. When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is: fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. For God will bring every act to judgement, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil."
Ecclesiastes 1:18, 12:12-14

Josiah's And Your Peace

I've been reading about Judah's King Josiah and am amazed at what the Bible has to say about this man though we seldom hear of him. He reigned from approximately 640 B.C. to 608 B.C., and his grandfather was King Manasseh who was rebuked by the Lord for the evil he did. Josiah was also the father of King Jehoiakim, who reigned when the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar first conquered Jerusalem.

Though there are about two chapters written in 2 Kings about all that Josiah did, a small passage written at the end of his life spoke heavily to me:

"The king commanded all the people, 'Keep the Passover of the LORD your God as written in the book of covenant.' No such Passover had ever been kept from the time of the judges who judged Israel through the entire time of the kings of Israel and Judah.... Before him there was no king like him who turned to the LORD with all his mind and with all his heart and with all his strength according to all the law of Moses, and no one like him arose after him.
In spite of all that, the LORD did not turn from the fierceness of His great wrath and anger, which burned against Judah because of all the provocations Manasseh had provoked Him with."  2 Kings 23:21-22, 25-26

Josiah did all that he could do and was loved by the Lord, but His wrath must be satisfied. God did allowed him to reign 31 years and die in the first battle leading to Jerusalem's eventual capture, but it still had to come in order to accomplish the fulfillment of His words. Even the Word of God says there was no king like Josiah - not before of after him - who turned so completely to the Lord, yet even his two sons who reigned did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and his people were captured.

So why bother? Because the promise of the Lord is Good and True. Josiah sent priests to a prophetess named Huldah, who spoke a message to him from the Lord - "...because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its inhabitants, that they would become a desolation and a curse, and because you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I Myself have heard you - declares the LORD. Therefore I will indeed gather you to your fathers, and you will be gathered to your grave in peace. Your eyes will not see all the disaster that I am bringing on this place..." 2 Kings 22:19-20

The Lord promised Josiah that he would not see all the disaster and would die in peace, but read 2 Kings 23:29. "During his reign, Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt marched up to the king of Assyria at the Euphrates river. King Josiah went to confront him, and at the Megiddo when Neco saw him he killed him" So what happened to dieing in peace? I believe that the peace the Lord promised to Josiah was in his spirit - not just in his physical realm. God promised him shâlôm - peace, just as Christ promised it to us. Jesus said to His disciples in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful."

This is the peace I believe Josiah had. This is the peace available to all who will believe: The peace of a trouble free and fearless heart - In the midst of a city, country, and world gripped by the chaotic consequences of sin.

Yes, things will go terribly wrong in life, but we've been given Peace.

Jesus Wants the Rose

... shouldn't we?

If so, why do we say it and not act upon it enough?

"And in the same way, wasn't Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by a different route? For just as the body without the Spirit is dead, so also is faith without works dead."
James 2:25-26

Hmmm...

I wonder what Jesus thought the first time He had a bad headache?
...And how many He had during His ministry?

Giving

This is a sermon from Andy Stanley which he preached earlier this month. Please take some time to watch it while eating leftovers today. It is well worth the 30 minutes, and an excellent message for any time of the year, but particularly the season.

Andy Stanley 9.8.09

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

"And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful."  Colossians 3:15

One Thing I Am Not Thankful For

If Thanksgiving is to be about "Giving Thanks" why do we stress so much about preparations and buying? We can't even be all that thankful when it's over because Black Friday looms to herald in the Christmas Credit Crunch.

Please take some time this Thanksgiving to stop, relax, and thank God for His bountiful blessings. If you can't think of any, ask Him - and then listen.
Then be thankful that He listens and answers!

What Is Love?

"You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you... For if you love those who love you, what reward will you have? Don't even the tax collectors do the same?"   Matthew 5:43-44, 46


"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." Mark 12:30-31


"Because lawlessness will multiply, the love of many will grow cold."  Matthew 24:12


"I give you a new commandment: love one another. Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."  John13:34-35


"Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor."  Romans 12:9-10


"Love does no wrong to a neighbor. Love, therefore, is the fulfillment of the law." Romans 13:10


"Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."  1 Corinthians 13:13


"But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into Him who is the head -- Christ. From Him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building up itself in love by the proper working of each individual part."  Ephesians 4:15-16


"Above all, [put on] love -- the perfect bond of unity."  Colossians 3:14


"And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, "  Philippians 1:9


"And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we also do for you. "  1 Thessalonians 3:12


"Above all, keep your love for one another at full strength, since love covers a multitude of sins. "  1 Peter 4:8


"This is how God's children -- and the Devil's children -- are made evident.Whoever does not do what is right is not of God, especially the one who does not love his brother."   1 John 3:10


"Little children, we must not love in word or speech, but in deed and truth;"  1 John 3:18


"We love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19


All these are to remind us to pray we will hear this: 
"I know your works -- your love, faithfulness, service, and endurance. Your last works are greater than the first." Revelation 2:19 


...and not this.  
 "But I have this against you: you have abandoned the love [you had] at first." Revelation 2:4 

So Out Of My Box There Was No Shape

I had an amazing experience in worship yesterday morning! 

Never have I felt the presence of the Lord so strongly for such a distinct period of time. There was a very limited portion of the message where His presence was so strong and pressing, I could hardly breathe. Tears came to my eyes and I had to gasp a few times for breath. If I hadn't been raised Baptist and been in a Baptist church, I would have fallen on the floor prostrate: I almost did anyway! How I should have!

The Lord spoke very boldly to me through this. It was not necessarily an audible voice. The best way I can describe it is by saying I was sitting in a room infused with His jelly of Truth. It was so thick and so obvious, I can find no other was to explain it. And just as quickly as it came, it went away. It was so powerful that I couldn't even comprehend it until later. I had no idea why He was there in that way, or what He was trying to say, but I do now. The Spirit wants to help us understand! And so He explained it to me. And I'm excitedly frightened. That just seems to be His way at times, isn't it?

Have you ever experienced the overwhelming presence of your Lord and Savior? If so, don't forget the lesson or comfort He was giving you. If you haven't, ask Him for it. Day and night seek Him. I don't believe that it is something to be experienced on demand, or very often, but it is a blessing I believe He desires to bestow upon us. Trust me, if He can be so gracious to me, He certainly can to you!

The Reality of Life Here

Often, this is the way life goes...

Life in 3 Seconds

The question is how do you handle it?

" For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us."  Romans 8:18

A Leaf On The Wind

There is a line from a movie that I love: "I'm a leaf on the wind. Watch how I soar."

So often, we see only the first part of that statement evident in our lives. There are so many twists and turns which come up, that we feel bounced around and chaotic. Life seems as though we are high in the air with nothing under our feet.

But as Christians we need to understand that the Spirit is the wind which guides us. John 3:8 says "The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit." To have a vibrant testimony, we need to have confidence in our God that He knows what He is doing. The Spirit is not tossing us around to torture or tease us, but to lift us up in order to amaze those around us who do not believe. He enables you to soar.

So, soar.

The Sifting Process

This is a comment I wrote on a friend's blog after she had a difficult day. She said I could share it with you, and I pray it encourages you!


As I read...(your blog), I couldn't help but remember both Peter and Job. Satan asked God's permission to test them, and God allowed it. There is always a reason. Jesus told Peter, "Simon, Simon, look out! Satan has asked to sift you like wheat. But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." I feel God has allowed Satan to whisper the "What If's" to you so that you will recognize and begin to answer some of these questions. Honestly, WHAT IF? Nothing drastic happened this time- praise God! Perhaps He is allowing you to enter into this realm so that you will learn a deeper dependence on Him. If something horrible had happened, God is still Holy and Just. It would have been the right thing, no matter how little sense it made to us. He has our days numbered, and there is no changing them. What a blessing that He is trusting you with this deeper level of love and trust in Him! Are we right to question? Never. But we always do. All of us. And He knows He must build us up slowly to lead and live powerful lives of testimony for Him. I am so grateful that your friend is OK; Miraculously so! But I am also grateful for the growing pains you are receiving. And doing well in acknowledging and handling I might add :) Love ya sis!


And I truly love you all too: Even those I won't meet until heaven!

Use What Works

God created the universe. He created us in His own image. Don't you think He knows how it all works best?

Satan tried to make himself equal to God, but was cut down to the ground (Isaiah 14:12-14). He also knows that what God says - the way He tells us to act for our own benefit - is the way we were created to respond and desire. Satan is the Master Counterfeiter! He uses Biblical principles better than many professing Christians do, yet He uses them to take our focus and attention off of God and onto anything else. Remember, He even tried quoting Scripture to Jesus in order to distract Him (Matthew 4:5-6).

Today I pray for you to recognize the difference between God-like principles and God. When you get a chance, please watch the video below. It is 20 minutes long, so make sure you have the time. I'd like you to find all the good, Godly principles this man describes. I have no idea if he is a Christian or not, but I do know he gives no glory to God throughout the story of his life. Begin making a practice of distinguishing the difference between to two.

Man Remains Quiet for 17 Years

Are You A Big Stall-er?

OK. This is a totally nit-picky, but do you ever have the dilemma of which stall to use when going into a public restroom?

I do.

When you walk in there is usually one large stall and several small ones. Now, I want to use the big stall in order to have more room. You know, more space to place your purse, bags, back pack, etc. However, the large stall is there for a reason: The handicap and people with small children. I have to admit that I'm always happy when it is the only one open. And those times of waiting in line - you know what I mean ladies - when it's the large one that opens up next for me I feel like I won the lottery!

This is one of those weird things that the Spirit has convicted me of. If I say I show love to others (1 John 3:18), and I'm suppose to do for them what I'd want done for me (Luke 6:31), then shouldn't I leave the big stall for them if at all possible?

Just a little something to ponder...

Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Yesterday I made a batch of cookies.

This may not seem like to big a deal to most people, but these cookies were for me, and I haven't had cookies in three years. It was a very big deal. Actually, I did eat one organic Oreo about a year ago and got sick, right away. It was almost worth it. 

Due to my wheat and potato allergies, it is very difficult to find any bread-like product I can have. Most gluten free products have potato starch, so I'm out of luck just about every time. However, I found some coconut flour which had a cookie recipe on the back - I suppose most people need some ideas what to do with coconut flour - and I finally tried them. I hadn't built up my hope because honestly, most substitute recipes stink. However, when they came out of the oven, I about melted. 

After fighting the kids off and "testing" several to make sure they were OK, I began to think that perhaps the only reason they tasted so good to me was because it had been so long since I'd eaten any. Time does that to us. Things I use to think were so bland, taste wonderful to me now because of my limited palate. Going on this hope, I let the kids have one each: They loved them. The cookies really were as good as I thought.

As the day wore on, I found myself going over to grab "just one more cookie", more than just one time. Funny how I wasn't really hungry for dinner...

At the end of the day I had eaten too many cookies. At least there were some left - but not many. Even then, as my body was saying "No more cookies!", my mouth was begging for more. I had lost the will power not to devour the cookies! Actually, I think I never really had it in the first place. I just haven't had the option of bending in so long, I had forgotten how weak I was when it came to cookies. They really don't even need to be around.

Jesus was teaching His disciples about the same principle in Matthew 18:7-9:

Woe to the world because of offenses. For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom to offenses come. If you hand of your foot causes your downfall, cut it all and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or lame than to have two hands and two feet and be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye causes your downfall, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye, rather than to have two eyes and thrown into hellfire."

Yes, I realize that is extreme. Especially when talking about cookies. Yet the principle behind it is the same. No, those cookies were not blocking my walk with Christ, but there are things which seem just as innocent at times that can. They can be different for everyone as well. One person may be hindered by specific TV programs that don't bother other Christians. Music is another thing which can be very powerful in a persons walk with Christ. If events start taking the place of Christ, such as sports, clubs, or social activities, they should be taken away as well.

If I find after another batch or two that I can't control myself at all around those cookies, will they become a stumbling block? I think so. Not because of the cookies themselves, but because of the character flaw of a lack of self control they would bring out in me. If I found that to be true then, yes, I shouldn't make them anymore. However, that shouldn't be the end of it. Once the flawed attitude of the heart/soul is discovered, we should go to our Savior for healing. Seek Him in order to become more like Him. Then, just perhaps, one day, we will be able to eat those cookies again....

Happy Homecoming

I've described myself before as an excited puppy at the Savior's feet. I'm so desperate to please Him! When I saw this video, it hit a soft spot in my heart. I wondered if this is how I will react somewhat when the Savior calls personally to me and I get to see Him face to face. I will be at least this happy... Happy Homecoming

What Does It Mean?

The gospel is Christ crucified. 

"For the Jews ask for signs and the Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles... When I came to you, brothers, announcing the testimony of God to you, I did not come with brilliance of speech of wisdom. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified."  1 Corinthians 1:22-23, 2:1-2

So what does the cross represent to you?

I haven't to listed anything so that you won't read over them lightly. That's too easy to do. Take the time today to ponder all the cross means to you, and pray to have the Spirit impress upon your heart new ways to appreciate it.

The Mean Monkey

How would you define sin? As doing something bad, mean, hateful, mischievous, or just plain wrong? 
Watch the following video: Mean Monkey 


Was that a sin? If it were a human would it be considered a sin? 


The Hebrew word ḥāṭā’ most often translated as the verb form of "sin" is defined by Strong's as "...to miss the mark, to wrong, to sin, to lead to sin..." In the Greek, there are two main words that define sin. Hamartanō, meaning, "To sin, to miss a mark on the way, not to hit the mark. One who keeps missing the mark in his relationship to God...", and hamartia: "Sin, missing the true end and scope of our lives, which is God. An offense in relation to God with emphasis on guilt." 


Sin is not doing something mean or wrong. It is missing the mark in your relationship with God. Yes, one way is by ignoring His commands to love one another, but the issue is in the relationship to God - not in the act between two people. 


Have you been missing the mark?

Being Flexible

There just never seems to be time enough in our hectic schedules for just talking with people. Yesterday, I had too many things to do in too short of a time to do them. Even though I really wasn't behind too bad, I felt that way a little since my wonderful husband had got up and taken the kids to school in order to let me sleep in a bit. I did: And woke up at 10:45. I guess I needed it more than I thought.

After we had breakfast together, I started in on my day's work. Now, I'm the type of person who has a hard time getting in too much studying at home because of all the things I see which need to be done. Right there. Calling to me. So, after being prompted by the Spirit to go shopping for a few particular things, I figured it would make sense to stop by and get work done at a local coffee shop until time to pick up the kids from school. I only had about an hour, but figured it was time to get one or two things accomplished.

However, as I got there, a wonderful lady whom I have met briefly before, and I started talking. As we continued on in our conversation, my flesh was telling me over and over how much I needed to do and I was wasting time. Yet the Spirit within me kept me gabbing away. At the end of our conversation, which came only because I was about to be late picking up the kids, I realized how blessed I was to have spoken to her. Not only because I was able to proclaim the glory of the Lord and how amazing He is, but because we as Christians seldom take the time to encourage and uplift one another in the Lord. This precious sister in Christ and I have a heavenly Father who we needed to talk about! How else can we show our love for Him while sitting there?

Yes, I still had much to do, but I truly believe the Father  honored that time, by allowing me to complete everything I needed to get done anyway: Even though I was further behind than I had realized at that point. As the Lord has been teaching me to love the way He desires me to, I've noticed that entails spending more time, one-on-one, with people. Not planning what to do for them, studying about them, or even just praying for them. But being with them.

As I am still learning, I ask you the question I ask of myself: Are you being sensitive to the Spirit, and flexible enough to follow through with His daily direction to encourage and strengthen those we come in contact with?

Oops!

Yesterday my husband and I actually got to have a date for lunch. Very seldom do we have the chance to go out to eat together, so we were really looking forward to it, and there was a local Japanese restaurant with an all your can eat sushi special we'd been wanting to try.

As we were eating and sharing food, there was a roll Kevin had ordered with mango that I wanted to try. However, just as I was swallowing it, I realized that there was some sort of pepper in it. I am very allergic to any sort of pepper. Quickly swallowing my medicine for allergic reactions, I hoped that perhaps it would not be as bad as I thought, but before long I was coughing, shaking, and my lungs felt like they were being squeezed. Just as I was about to tell him to head to the ER, the reaction leveled off and within 5 minutes was starting to get a little better.

I am usually so careful, and was a little upset with myself that I had not checked the food more carefully. Even though the worst part of the reaction was over fairly quickly, I knew I would feel crummy the rest of the day. It always wipes me out after having a reaction.

I realize that no mater how careful we are in our walk with Christ, we still slip up. There are times that we know we shouldn't do something or feel a certain way, but we find ourselves falling for it before we even knew it was there to tempt us. Yes, it is frustrating, but we are human. No matter how much we want to be perfect, we never will be here in this lifetime. So don't beat yourself up over it, just give in to it, and don't deny it ever happened. No one is perfect, but Jesus Christ our Lord. That is why He is able to save us from those sins. Those people who think they never slip up, or that their slip-ups are nowhere near as bad or important as others are just blind to the fact that sin is sin. Don't let them make you feel worthless. You are a precious jewel to your Father in heaven. It only matters between Him and you. Not you and anyone else.

Just take an extra dose of healing medicine, the Word, and get back to being productive and useful for the Kingdom. Even if you feel crummy about whatever it was, don't let it stop you from living for Christ to the fullest.

Translating

Yesterday morning the worship service at our church combined with the Hispanic congregation who usually meets after us. We were able to sing songs together in English and Spanish: Even the choir special switched between the two languages during the chorus. It was such a beautiful reminder that our God is the God of “...every tribe and language and people and nation.” (Revelation 5:9)

As my pastor, Mike, gave the sermon, the Hispanic pastor, Jorge, would translated. Because of this, Pastor Mike had to speak in short, or broken sentences in order to let Pastor Jorge interpret without getting too bogged down or lost. I have to say I was tickled by the fact that Wal-Mart is Wal-Mart, no matter the language and Paul is called Pablo. I just never pictured him as a Pablo.

As I sat there listening, it occurred to me that the sermon was more concise because of the need to listen and translate. Stopping to wait allowed Pastor Mike time to chose his next words more carefully instead of a thought being allowed to play out in full. It also gave Pastor Jorge time to figure out how best to translate a sentence. What a wonderful example of how we should speak to others! Not only do we need to take time to stop and think even as we are speaking, but we need to take time and hear what the Spirit has to say to us before we open our mouths to those around us.

Our tongue, or words, are difficult to control. Psalm 52:4 says, “You love any words that destroy, you treacherous tongue!” and in Proverbs 21:23, “The one who guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.” The book of James gives us further insight on the wisdom of pausing to tame the tongue. James 1:26, “If anyone thinks he is religious, without controlling his tongue but deceiving his heart, his religion is useless.” and again in James 3:2, “...If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a mature man who is also able to control his body.” What amazing emphasis is placed on controlling our words: It will effect our whole body!

As we pause before speaking, we are to be listening to what the Spirit guides us to say for the Father. “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak whatever He hears. He will also declare to you what is to come.” (John 16:13) Christ also tells us over and over in the book of Revelation, “Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Chapters 2 & 3)

I realize that we can not stop every few moments in our conversations with people to cock our heads skyward, listening for guidance from the Spirit. It is something we just have to pray for and be sensitive to while we are speaking. And the only way to accomplish that is by spending time in the Word daily and praying constantly! So take a few moments to pray for His guidance in your speech today. Ask Him to keep you sensitive to His promptings and for your tongue to get stuck to the roof of your mouth if your flesh starts taking over!

Didn't I Tell You...?

This verse became very personal to me yesterday. Over and over I was shown His glory, and was encouraged to walk by faith in order to see more. Not only did God speak, directly answering an issue, but the same verse came from totally different sources within an hour of each other.

I believe it can speak to all of us.

"Jesus said to her, 'Didn't I tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?'"
John 11:40

Do you really believe this? Ask the Lord to help you search your heart and know for certain. Then join me in my prayer to the Savior, "...I do believe! Help my unbelief." (Mark 9:24)

Detox

Today I get to go through my first detox session! For those of you who don't know the problems I have had with my health, this is a big deal to me. I'm praying that the Lord will use this to send me on the road to a somewhat normal health. Today's session is just the first step, but it should begin helping right away.

So I've decided to do a detox of the soul too! Since they are going to remove many harmful things taken from my physical body, this is a good opportunity to listen to the Spirit and read the Word. The purpose is to see what harmful things I have let creep in and become toxic in my walk with Jesus Christ.

First thing in the morning I plan on getting in some good reading - just for the sake of reading - in the Bible. There are many studies I prepare for throughout the week, but seldom do I get the chance to just read for the love of it. Then, I will have a two hour session at the clinic where I plan on having the Word next to me while listening to what He has to say to me. Afterwards, I will just have to listen and see what comes next.

Please pray for me today. Yes, I want my physical health to improve, but even more so my spiritual health. Pray that I love the Lord with all I'm worth today. And that toxins are removed all around!

"What If " Waivers

Is there anything that could make your faith in God waiver?

What if an innocent person you loved died?
What if you saw a ghost?
How about if another planet with life on it were discovered?
What if something you believed about God, but wasn't obvious in the Bible, were proven false?
What if a psychic could tell you very specific things that very few people knew?

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths".  Proverbs 3:5


"'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways not My ways.' This is the Lord's declaration."  Isaiah 55:8

Having faith in God is perhaps questioning Him as to Why? at times, but never questioning whether He even really exists.

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created things will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!  Romans 8:38-39

Surfing

Though I grew up on Daytona Beach, the only surfing I did was body surfing. I do know others who surf and realize that Daytona has better waves than the west coast of Florida, but they are still nothing spectacular. The people who ride those huge waves like you get in Hawaii amaze me. There is so much raw power there!

As I sat talking with God the other day trying to decide how to best describe an active, vibrant walk in His will, surfing came to mind. There is amazing power and push in water though it can easily swirl around you as well. There is no sitting still either when keeping up with God's will in your life. Yes, He may have times where He wants you to "Be still, and know I am God..." (Psalm 46:10), but even then you have to watch expectantly and be ready to move when He calls: Just like waiting for the right wave to ride.

Often too, God calls us to ride on the edge of what He is doing and if we stray, it all will come crashing down on us. There can be danger, and there is only one way to go safely- which He will show to us as needed. You can not plan the exact path of your ride either. You just know, "Go that way!" Much will be risked, but there is so much more to be gained.

...And what a ride! Count me in.

Brain Cloud

There is a line out of the movie Joe Verses The Volcano that I love to use when I just can't seem to think straight. The main character, Joe, is a hypochondriac who continues to go to doctors until one finally plays to his fears and tells him that he has a Brain Cloud; which, of course, is made up. So whenever I'm having a moment, I jokingly say that I have a brain cloud.

However, as I was reading today, I found a very interesting passage by Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest that has me rethinking this little phrase. The following is most of the devotional from his July 29th entry:

 "Behold, He cometh with clouds." Revelation 1:7

In the Bible clouds are always connected with God. Clouds are those sorrows or sufferings or providences, within or without our personal lives, which seem to dispute the rule of God. It is by those very clouds that the Spirit of God is teaching us how to walk by faith. If there were no clouds, we should have no faith. "The clouds are but the dust of our Father's feet." The clouds are a sign that He is there. What a revelation it is to know that sorrow and bereavement and suffering are the clouds that come along with God! God cannot come near without clouds, He does not come in clear shining.


It is not true to say that God wants to teach us something in our trials: through every cloud He brings, He wants us to unlearn something. His purpose in the cloud is to simplify our belief until our relationship to Him is exactly that of a child - God and my own soul, other people are shadows. Until other people become shadows, clouds and darkness will be mine every now and again. Is the relationship between myself and God getting simpler than ever it has been?


There is a connection between the strange providences of God and what we know of Him, and we have to learn to interpret the mysteries of life in the light of our knowledge of God. Unless we can look the darkest, blackest fact full in the face without damaging God's character, we do not yet know Him..." (Emphasis mine)

How blessed I am that my Father has clouded my mind with His presence! I only pray that I will stay that way always. 

I implore you to ask the Spirit to reveal to you today if there are any areas where the "darkest, blackest fact" may "damage God's character" in your mind and heart. If so, be honest with God about it for the healing of yourself. He already knows. Then spend some time getting to know and trust the God who loves and cherishes you so much. Remember: He is the essence of trustworthy.