I was having a tough day yesterday. I haven't been feeling A+, so I'm more tired than usual and my "woes me" was on over drive. I spent a good part of my day crying with my buddies; pride and self pity.
I cried some more until I was just too tired to even bother. I found it so difficult to find something to praise God for since I had let my heart convince my mind that all was in vain and of no use. I knew in my mind that there must be something but my heart was running the show. (Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?")
In the evening, I was reading through some Psalm and the Lord stopped me on verse 17 of psalm 7, "I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high." ... "according to His righteousness"
All of a sudden, there was lots to praise God for. Even though I might not like how God is working in my life and/or those around me, He is full of righteousness. He knows what He is doing.
I like the next Psalm in verse 3. Psalm 8:3,4 "When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?"
Really, when you think of the detail and the function of this universe, and to think He cares about our little problems.
Have YOU ever had a project or craft YOU'd like to be bragged up on? Still nothing compared to the solar system eh?
The the clincher was Psalm 9:1 "I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works."
Now.... I'm not sure about you but after the way I was feeling yesterday, not being able to think of SOMETHING to praise God for, just to bathe in my own self pity, I read that passage and felt REALLY convicted.
Have you ever had God sort of tap on you on the shoulder with His hand, not just a one finger tap? Then He gave you that look. You know the one we give our kids when they've been caught; your eyebrows are up, your lips giving up a sarcastic smile... YA! That one!
I sat there looking like what our kids look like; sorry and pitifully gulping the "awwwwwh man!" feeling. I messed up again.
I asked my Father to forgive me and thanked Him for softening my heart.
I would encourage you to underline those 3 passages of God's word, so it may encourage you and remind you of God's holiness.
Praise On!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Just water?
I remember the first time this scripture spoke to me in a deeper sense than usually.
Psalm1:3 says, "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
This scripture was already underlined in my bible but in this particular instance I was being given a deeper understanding.
We had just finished purchasing an air purifier, that also emits negative ions without ozone. I was reading the pamphlet that came with it and it said this, "High amounts of these ions are found in certain natural settings. They increase in forests and near waterfalls. A walk through a forest or by a mountain stream feels soothing and relaxing — the Japanese regard this as therapy for mental stress, which they call shinrinyoku, “forest-air breathing.”"
That's when the Lord reminded me of Psalm 1:3 "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
A piece of the puzzle was added to the "ginormousness" of this earth and all that God created.
When He wrote that passage, He knew what he was referring to. He knew He created the environment that helps us relax and He knows why it does just that. No surprise that He often uses water for an analogy of who He is.
I can't shake the thought that this is what I am to study for the next little while. In the old and new testament, there is a specific significance to water and God, so I am going to be sharing what the Lord shows me, so if you don't like water, well.... you might get a new appreciation for it.
8 glasses, don't forget! Drink up!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
A Hardened Heart
To avoid today's blog being too long to read, I am going to put most of it in point form ok?
Jesus had sent out His disciples two by two to draw people to repentance.
Mark 6:12-13, "And they went out, and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them."
Jesus wanted them to rest after they had come back.
Mark 6:31, "And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat."
As they were just about to leave for some R'n'R, Jesus saw a crowd of people arriving.
Mark 6:34, "And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things."
The disciples are not happy. I mean... what about their need????
Mark 6:36"Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat."
Jesus feeds the 5000+ with 5 loaves and two fish, leaving 12 baskets full.
Mark 6:38-44"He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men."
They finally get away to rest, and Jesus goes alone in the mountain to pray.
Mark 6:46, "And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray."
Jesus sees them in the boat having a hard time because they were going against the wind.
Mark 6:48
Jesus walked on the water and into their boat, instantly the winds stop.
Mark 6:50-52, "they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened."
This is the point I pondered on. Mark 6:52,"and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened."
They were so upset about not being able to go alone with Jesus for rest that they never noticed the miracle that Jesus did with multiplying the food. Right over their head. their heart was hardened.
It's possible to be a good servant of the Lord, giving out tracts, witnessing and having a good testimony, then your heart being hardened by pride and miss out on God,s mighty works.
The awesomeness of the birth of a baby.
The beauty of the rain giving drink to the thirsty plants and animals.
The sun giving us heat and nourishment.
Our simple actions in love, that ripple from just one to many.
Miracles are everywhere around us but our hardened heart, our pride, doesn't allow us to see them.
1John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
It is possible to have our heart softened, we need just to come to God and do what the disciples went out preaching; repent.
Jesus had sent out His disciples two by two to draw people to repentance.
Mark 6:12-13, "And they went out, and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them."
Jesus wanted them to rest after they had come back.
Mark 6:31, "And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat."
As they were just about to leave for some R'n'R, Jesus saw a crowd of people arriving.
Mark 6:34, "And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things."
The disciples are not happy. I mean... what about their need????
Mark 6:36"Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat."
Jesus feeds the 5000+ with 5 loaves and two fish, leaving 12 baskets full.
Mark 6:38-44"He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men."
They finally get away to rest, and Jesus goes alone in the mountain to pray.
Mark 6:46, "And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray."
Jesus sees them in the boat having a hard time because they were going against the wind.
Mark 6:48
Jesus walked on the water and into their boat, instantly the winds stop.
Mark 6:50-52, "they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened."
This is the point I pondered on. Mark 6:52,"and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened."
They were so upset about not being able to go alone with Jesus for rest that they never noticed the miracle that Jesus did with multiplying the food. Right over their head. their heart was hardened.
It's possible to be a good servant of the Lord, giving out tracts, witnessing and having a good testimony, then your heart being hardened by pride and miss out on God,s mighty works.
The awesomeness of the birth of a baby.
The beauty of the rain giving drink to the thirsty plants and animals.
The sun giving us heat and nourishment.
Our simple actions in love, that ripple from just one to many.
Miracles are everywhere around us but our hardened heart, our pride, doesn't allow us to see them.
1John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
It is possible to have our heart softened, we need just to come to God and do what the disciples went out preaching; repent.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Looking beyond
While reading God's word I noticed that Jesus was not only mocked by "His enemies" and at His Crucifixion. All through His ministry, His disciples, who would give Him a sarcastic proud attitude saying, "hummmm HELLO!!!?".
For example, we have the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:24 "And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in [her] body that she was healed of that plague. And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?"
Another place when in the same chapter was when Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, asked Jesus to come see his daughter who was dying. When Jesus said,"the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn." He went into the little girls bedroom and told her to get up and she did.
It's as if part of them believed He was God but they couldn't look beyond the fact He wore flesh.
I think sometimes we're the same way. We desperately ant a miracle in our life or that of someone else but we can not look beyond the physical aspects.
God is just that, He's God! Money is not an issue for Him for Psalm 50:10 says, "For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." Earthly destruction is not an issue for 2 reasons. 1- He is the creator of this earth and the universe, Gen. 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." 2- The things that have been happening are only to set the stage for when Jesus comes back to get His own. Matthew 24:6-8 says, "And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows."
He is not limited by our stubborn will. Proverbs 21:1 says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will."
He is still God whether this proud world want to ridicule Him or ignore Him altogether.
If there's something in your life that is blinding you from the power and mightiness of God, you should start reading the bible and get a glimpse of it.
Look around, then look beyond.
For example, we have the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:24 "And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him. And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in [her] body that she was healed of that plague. And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?"
Another place when in the same chapter was when Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, asked Jesus to come see his daughter who was dying. When Jesus said,"the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn." He went into the little girls bedroom and told her to get up and she did.
It's as if part of them believed He was God but they couldn't look beyond the fact He wore flesh.
I think sometimes we're the same way. We desperately ant a miracle in our life or that of someone else but we can not look beyond the physical aspects.
God is just that, He's God! Money is not an issue for Him for Psalm 50:10 says, "For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." Earthly destruction is not an issue for 2 reasons. 1- He is the creator of this earth and the universe, Gen. 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." 2- The things that have been happening are only to set the stage for when Jesus comes back to get His own. Matthew 24:6-8 says, "And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows."
He is not limited by our stubborn will. Proverbs 21:1 says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will."
He is still God whether this proud world want to ridicule Him or ignore Him altogether.
If there's something in your life that is blinding you from the power and mightiness of God, you should start reading the bible and get a glimpse of it.
Look around, then look beyond.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Do we REALLY want change?
I don't know if you ever read this passage of scripture but it teaches us a lot about us and the Holiness of God. It's very interesting, read on.
Mark 5:1-6, "And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,"
Here's a man who was possessed of the devil. Although we are not exposed to it, to this extreme but, those we know of, their life is in shambles to say the least.
How he got to that point in his life, we'll only know in heaven.
Is there someone in your life like that? Maybe your neigbour's teenage kids?! Maybe the neighbour...?
What really spoke to me is what happens after.
Mark 5:13-17, "And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts."
It is clear in the first passage that some had tried to tame "Legion". Some saw, somehow, that he would cut himself. Some had heard that his cries.
What was life like for those in the nearby village? I wonder if it was like the haunted stories that are written; where the parents warn their children not to go near that place or talk to that person. Maybe the kids played pranks on him by throwing rocks at him or maybe they watched behind the trees or toombstones at night when he would be cutting himself.
The bible gives the account of how God made a difference in "Legion's" life, his friends and the nearby village, the details of the "behind the scenes", we'll only know in heaven, but we can think of how we would react and speculate that they might of done the same.
We do know that when Legion was freed from the bondage, he was dressed and sane. Did the people seem happy about it? You would think that they would be thankful that Jesus changed him and made him whole, but no, they weren't. "And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts." Why did they do that?
These are the thoughts that were layed on my heart.
Mark 5:1-6, "And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,"
Here's a man who was possessed of the devil. Although we are not exposed to it, to this extreme but, those we know of, their life is in shambles to say the least.
How he got to that point in his life, we'll only know in heaven.
Is there someone in your life like that? Maybe your neigbour's teenage kids?! Maybe the neighbour...?
What really spoke to me is what happens after.
Mark 5:13-17, "And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts."
It is clear in the first passage that some had tried to tame "Legion". Some saw, somehow, that he would cut himself. Some had heard that his cries.
What was life like for those in the nearby village? I wonder if it was like the haunted stories that are written; where the parents warn their children not to go near that place or talk to that person. Maybe the kids played pranks on him by throwing rocks at him or maybe they watched behind the trees or toombstones at night when he would be cutting himself.
The bible gives the account of how God made a difference in "Legion's" life, his friends and the nearby village, the details of the "behind the scenes", we'll only know in heaven, but we can think of how we would react and speculate that they might of done the same.
We do know that when Legion was freed from the bondage, he was dressed and sane. Did the people seem happy about it? You would think that they would be thankful that Jesus changed him and made him whole, but no, they weren't. "And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts." Why did they do that?
These are the thoughts that were layed on my heart.
- We sometimes avoid God because we have sin in our life that we do not want exposed nor do we want to be "freed" from.
- Sometimes we are praying for people, desiring God to change them and draw them to Him, to save them and make them whole. Then He does, and we don't, then we reject them.
Mark 5:18-20, "And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel."
I was convincted about the second's group response. I have a few people I am praying for and I now pray that when God answers my prayers, that I will marvel with them and rejoice of the greatness of God and His compassion on us.
Have a good day.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Those Hard Walls
I used to race bicycles, you know, LIKE Tour de Fance. I was not even close to being as good as they were but I did ok.
We had a saying in cycling, "I hit the wall". It didn't mean that we actually hit a wall, that would be very bad and expensive. It meant that while we were racing, we ran out of energy to the point we could no longer even push one more stride.
Have you ever felt that way?
I work out at the gym now and just this morning, I thought I was "hitting the wall". No, not because the exercise bike got off it's base... My cousin who works out a lot told me that when you are on a "plateau" with your weight loss, while you are working out on what ever machine, sprint as fast as you can, as if someone was chasing you down a dark alley, for one minute straight. I was doing that this morning. I was 20 seconds into my 60 seconds sprint and I was already wanting to quit. 30 seconds into it, I was getting really close to that wall. At the 40 sec. mark I told myself that "You're only 10 seconds away! Don't Quit! Don't Quit!" To say that in itself took 10 seconds. I was relieved, and I was proud, I stuck through it and made it!
Now, that 1 minute is long gone and I can hardly remember how hard it was and it didn't seem all that long after all.
Just as Jesus used parables to teach the common people of His day, He uses every day things to teach me.
Yesterday, I was spiritually "hitting the wall". I've told you before that I am in the middle of a storm. Circumstances in my life, that are out of my control, surround me and have become very discouraging at times but, God has been faithful and has given me the strength to get through. Then there was yesterday...
I got to church and my emotions were overwhelming. As we praised and worshiped God, He gave me strength and joy and I made it home again where my circumstances found me and began to discourage me again. I just had my head above water and I felt like I was being dunked back into the water even deeper than I was in the morning. I couldn't take it anymore, I had "hit the wall".
Emotionally and spiritually weak, I went to my room, my spiritual sanctuary. I got on my knees and prayed, more like pleaded to God for refuge. I wanted Him to take away my circumstances and take away the pain and rejection I deeply felt.
When I had nothing else to say, I listened for a while and got back up to face my circumstance. I made it through the day. He did not only give me strength to make it through but He restored my strength; I was out of the water completely. I know that, not only I went to the Throne of Grace, on my behalf yesterday. My brothers and sisters did also, and God answered.
Today, I can look back, and although I can still remember how much it hurt and how tired I was, that day is long gone. I made it to the other side of that 24hrs. I kept pushing and made it to the end of the day.
Today is a new day and God is still there by my side. He never left, it just got dark for a while and it was scary.
I don't know what you may be facing, but don't be afraid if you are about to "hit the wall". He is there by your side, if you are His child. He is waiting for you to get a hold of Him and "hang on for dear life". He wants to be your refuge, your strength and your peace. He waits for you to just cry out to Him. You might have to keep pushing but, you will get to the other side of that hardship and see that He hasn't moved, it just got dark.
Keep pushing.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Computer problems
Stay tuned as I'm trying to upload a video for you. Pray that it will work as it hasn't yet.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Have you forgotten?
Isn't it amazing to what extent we are creatures of habit? The human species has not changed much in the past 6000 years.
In the old testament, we read of the ups and downs of the Israelites and how they "stiffed their necks" toward God and would go years without doing the sacrifices and rituals of the priests. Eventually, the temple was destroyed and they were taken into captivity.
In Ezra 6:3-5 "In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house: And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God."
They returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple, the house of God. They were turning back to God. Did they remember how to build the temple? Did they have to dig up the plans? It was supposed to be built in a particular way. Once the temple was rebuilt, did they remember how the sacrifices were supposed to be done? There were a lot of details in the worshipping of God in the old testament. Many generations would had passed by now, they would have to relearn what they fathers had practiced for many years.
What a waste.
Because of the inconsistancy of the children of God, the priest would have to relearn or even learn for the first time how to make the sacrifices, how to pass from one section of the temple to another. Maybe they even had to sew up new garments for the priests. So much time and energy used up just to get back on track.
The same thing happens with us. When we stop working for the Lord, praying and serving others, worshipping God and living right, we forget how to do those things. Our heart gets hardened and, coming back to God is difficult. Why do we bother straying to begin with?
Have you ever had a big disagreement with someone, then you finaly restore that relationship but at first you feel awkward and things aren't as comfortable and sweet as before. That is also true with our relationship with God. When we stray then come back to God, at first, it's not a sweet as it used to be. It's not because of God, but because of our memory of the transgression we did against Him. Why do we even allow ourselves to grow cold?
Some of us might be saved but never had that sweetness in our relationship with God. Have we forgotten what we learnt of what hell is like? Maybe we have forgotten what our life was like before He saved us. Do you remember the emptiness, the void you had in your heart? Do you remember feeling like there was no purpose to life. No reason to be in a life of consant rejection, pain, suffering and feeling helpless? How about when you learnt of a God who loved you so much He sent His son to be born poor, constantly on the run from people who wanted Him dead. Growing up misunderstood then becoming a man to be loved by many for the sole reason that they can get something from Him whether is was being healed themselves or their family member being raised from the dead, having their sins forgiven, their hope restored and their intellect stroked. He battled faced to face with satan while he had not eaten for days. Then the most amazing part, He allowed the very men and women He created, to deliver Him to those who seeked to kill Him. The government then beat and tortured Him to the point where you couldn't even recognize Him. As weak as He was, they made Him carry the wooden beam that would hold the nails that pierced His hands, to the hill where He would later shout to the Father "Why hast thou forsaken me?" God would turn His back on the filthiness of our sins that filled the soul of Jesus. It doesn't end there! He then went to hell for us, but he didn't stay, He then built the new covenant, the way of forgiveness of sins through Him, not the sacrifice of animals or the law. He ascended into heaven which for the saved will be our home someday.
Have we forgotten all that? It's time we learn and/or relearn what Jesus did for us just in the point of salvation, then it's time for us to remember what He's done for us since. We can't say that He's never been there for us, never answered prayer, never comforted us, guided us and protected us.
It's time to rebuild God's temple, our body, getting back to the worship of Him and Him alone, to prayer, service and drawing people to Him so they can have the opportunity to have what we have, eternal life, freedom from bondage and a friend who loves like none other can.
Lest we not forget.
In the old testament, we read of the ups and downs of the Israelites and how they "stiffed their necks" toward God and would go years without doing the sacrifices and rituals of the priests. Eventually, the temple was destroyed and they were taken into captivity.
In Ezra 6:3-5 "In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house: And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God."
They returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple, the house of God. They were turning back to God. Did they remember how to build the temple? Did they have to dig up the plans? It was supposed to be built in a particular way. Once the temple was rebuilt, did they remember how the sacrifices were supposed to be done? There were a lot of details in the worshipping of God in the old testament. Many generations would had passed by now, they would have to relearn what they fathers had practiced for many years.
What a waste.
Because of the inconsistancy of the children of God, the priest would have to relearn or even learn for the first time how to make the sacrifices, how to pass from one section of the temple to another. Maybe they even had to sew up new garments for the priests. So much time and energy used up just to get back on track.
The same thing happens with us. When we stop working for the Lord, praying and serving others, worshipping God and living right, we forget how to do those things. Our heart gets hardened and, coming back to God is difficult. Why do we bother straying to begin with?
Have you ever had a big disagreement with someone, then you finaly restore that relationship but at first you feel awkward and things aren't as comfortable and sweet as before. That is also true with our relationship with God. When we stray then come back to God, at first, it's not a sweet as it used to be. It's not because of God, but because of our memory of the transgression we did against Him. Why do we even allow ourselves to grow cold?
Some of us might be saved but never had that sweetness in our relationship with God. Have we forgotten what we learnt of what hell is like? Maybe we have forgotten what our life was like before He saved us. Do you remember the emptiness, the void you had in your heart? Do you remember feeling like there was no purpose to life. No reason to be in a life of consant rejection, pain, suffering and feeling helpless? How about when you learnt of a God who loved you so much He sent His son to be born poor, constantly on the run from people who wanted Him dead. Growing up misunderstood then becoming a man to be loved by many for the sole reason that they can get something from Him whether is was being healed themselves or their family member being raised from the dead, having their sins forgiven, their hope restored and their intellect stroked. He battled faced to face with satan while he had not eaten for days. Then the most amazing part, He allowed the very men and women He created, to deliver Him to those who seeked to kill Him. The government then beat and tortured Him to the point where you couldn't even recognize Him. As weak as He was, they made Him carry the wooden beam that would hold the nails that pierced His hands, to the hill where He would later shout to the Father "Why hast thou forsaken me?" God would turn His back on the filthiness of our sins that filled the soul of Jesus. It doesn't end there! He then went to hell for us, but he didn't stay, He then built the new covenant, the way of forgiveness of sins through Him, not the sacrifice of animals or the law. He ascended into heaven which for the saved will be our home someday.
Have we forgotten all that? It's time we learn and/or relearn what Jesus did for us just in the point of salvation, then it's time for us to remember what He's done for us since. We can't say that He's never been there for us, never answered prayer, never comforted us, guided us and protected us.
It's time to rebuild God's temple, our body, getting back to the worship of Him and Him alone, to prayer, service and drawing people to Him so they can have the opportunity to have what we have, eternal life, freedom from bondage and a friend who loves like none other can.
Lest we not forget.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
What kind of people can God use?
When Jesus said to the fishermen in Mark 1:17-20, "And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets. And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him."
Thes fishermen were, Simon (Peter), Andrew, James and John.
Later on in Mark 2:14, He sees Levi (Matthew) sitting at the receipt of custom and said, "Follow me. And he arose and followed him."
The other disciples, from what I understand, were from the crowd of people who followed Jesus where ever He went.
Note those whom He chose to do mighty, amazing things for God. Those who followed Him right away. These are the ones we hear about, the ones who had a great impact on people for Christ's sake.
What about us? If Jesus came to us when we were working or doing something important, would we just get up and follow Him. How about everyday? Do people and their souls not matter anymore?
Look at Paul who was Saul before he was saved. The moment he heard God call him, he obeyed.
We don't know much about Ananias but he was a brave man who obeyed God (Acts 9). God asked to go see Saul, who killed Christians. Ananias said (I'm paraphrasing), ummmm God? Are you sure? God said yes, that "for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:". Ananias trusted God and went. What if he wouldn't of? Myyyyyyyy how things would be different!
When God asks me to do something for Him, I pray I will be faithful and "straightway" follow Him.
Stay faithful and serving.
Thes fishermen were, Simon (Peter), Andrew, James and John.
Later on in Mark 2:14, He sees Levi (Matthew) sitting at the receipt of custom and said, "Follow me. And he arose and followed him."
The other disciples, from what I understand, were from the crowd of people who followed Jesus where ever He went.
Note those whom He chose to do mighty, amazing things for God. Those who followed Him right away. These are the ones we hear about, the ones who had a great impact on people for Christ's sake.
What about us? If Jesus came to us when we were working or doing something important, would we just get up and follow Him. How about everyday? Do people and their souls not matter anymore?
Look at Paul who was Saul before he was saved. The moment he heard God call him, he obeyed.
We don't know much about Ananias but he was a brave man who obeyed God (Acts 9). God asked to go see Saul, who killed Christians. Ananias said (I'm paraphrasing), ummmm God? Are you sure? God said yes, that "for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:". Ananias trusted God and went. What if he wouldn't of? Myyyyyyyy how things would be different!
When God asks me to do something for Him, I pray I will be faithful and "straightway" follow Him.
Stay faithful and serving.
Monday, April 14, 2008
A call to prayer
I don't know how people make it through life without God, yet I'm just as clueless as to how Christians go through life without prayer.
Charles Spurgeon said it so well, "In prayer, we stand where angels bow with veiled faces; there, even there, the cherubim and seraphim adore, before that selfsame throne to which our prayers ascend".
I can't help but feel so little when I look at God. He is so worthy of my respect, honor and sacrifice. I have so little to offer Him yet He loves me so. I can't understand why He even takes the time to speak to my heart or to answer my prayers.
There will come a day that the most powerfull men and women will bow their knee before God, yet today I got to do that myself. I don't have to stand before a metal barricade and watch in wonder, while "important" people get to talk to God and shake His hand. I got to talk to Him just this morning and if I want I can go back 100 times today and He will not get tired of me.
Knowing this, how can someone treat God with such casualness; like just another routine or task?
Don't miss out, stay in touch.
Charles Spurgeon said it so well, "In prayer, we stand where angels bow with veiled faces; there, even there, the cherubim and seraphim adore, before that selfsame throne to which our prayers ascend".
I can't help but feel so little when I look at God. He is so worthy of my respect, honor and sacrifice. I have so little to offer Him yet He loves me so. I can't understand why He even takes the time to speak to my heart or to answer my prayers.
There will come a day that the most powerfull men and women will bow their knee before God, yet today I got to do that myself. I don't have to stand before a metal barricade and watch in wonder, while "important" people get to talk to God and shake His hand. I got to talk to Him just this morning and if I want I can go back 100 times today and He will not get tired of me.
Knowing this, how can someone treat God with such casualness; like just another routine or task?
Don't miss out, stay in touch.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Business in Life
Can I see a show of hands for those of you who feel like life is overwhelming or perhaps sometimes overwhelming? 
Proverbs 11:1 "A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight."
As the weekend draws near, I want to make sure the things in my life are balanced. I do not want to miss an opportunity to be used by God just because I was too busy.
This scripture is a short yet powerful one for busy moms. Maybe we should commit this one to memory.
Have yourself a great weekend!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Why and How, me?
Isaiah 55:8, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD."
I look around and wonder why we are not working harder, as Christians, to see the lost saved.
As I was reading my bible, I was reminded of something; some do not believe they can be used of God for mighty things because of certain lacks in their life. I know for myself, I'm amazed that He can do what He does, but that's exactly the point, He wants to do it so He can show His power.
I'm constantly amazed by what God does through me. I actually sometimes have the chance to see it happen right in front of my eyes and I shake my head in amazment that He can do His work with the likes of me.
In the old testament, sin had to be attoned for with a blood sacrifice, the killing of a flawless animal. The whole procession had to be done by the priests, which they were the only ones allowed in the temple where God's presence would be to forgive and to give guidance.
In the new testament, otherwise known as the new covenant, God chooses shephards to go to the place where Jesus, God manifested in the flesh, was born. There they were, dirty, hungry, tired and not very educated. Yet, God chose them to see the Messiah's arrival.
What about Mary? She was very young, a teenager. She was just an innocent child. What had she done in her life to be used of God? She didn't have a doctorate in theology, she might not of even been able to read or write.
The disciples... fishermen, tax collector (those are the ones I know). These were not considered briliant people in their days, yet God obviously used them mightily.
Are you holding back on God because you don't see how he could use you? Are you keeping quiet about the Gospel for fear you won't know the answers to their questions? Who are you putting your faith in? You or God?
If you are a child of God, saved, born again, His Holy Spirit lives in you. You have the same potential as Paul did.
Jesus said it best in the garden of Gethsemane, "the spirit indeed is willing , but the flesh is weak."
Matthew 10:19 says, "But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak." and I remind you of the first scripture I gave you, Isaiah 55:8, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD." another I find encouraging to keep pressing on in the work of the Lord and not trust in myself for results is Proverbs 3:5,6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
If God is asking you to do or say something today, don't be afraid for He is not the author of fear, trust in Him to give you the words and the wisdom necessary to do His work. That's when life gets exciting. To see the impact, for the better, you can have in peoples life. God will take you places and have you meet people you never thought possible.
Be faithful and trust Him.
I look around and wonder why we are not working harder, as Christians, to see the lost saved.
As I was reading my bible, I was reminded of something; some do not believe they can be used of God for mighty things because of certain lacks in their life. I know for myself, I'm amazed that He can do what He does, but that's exactly the point, He wants to do it so He can show His power.
I'm constantly amazed by what God does through me. I actually sometimes have the chance to see it happen right in front of my eyes and I shake my head in amazment that He can do His work with the likes of me.
In the old testament, sin had to be attoned for with a blood sacrifice, the killing of a flawless animal. The whole procession had to be done by the priests, which they were the only ones allowed in the temple where God's presence would be to forgive and to give guidance.
In the new testament, otherwise known as the new covenant, God chooses shephards to go to the place where Jesus, God manifested in the flesh, was born. There they were, dirty, hungry, tired and not very educated. Yet, God chose them to see the Messiah's arrival.
What about Mary? She was very young, a teenager. She was just an innocent child. What had she done in her life to be used of God? She didn't have a doctorate in theology, she might not of even been able to read or write.
The disciples... fishermen, tax collector (those are the ones I know). These were not considered briliant people in their days, yet God obviously used them mightily.
Are you holding back on God because you don't see how he could use you? Are you keeping quiet about the Gospel for fear you won't know the answers to their questions? Who are you putting your faith in? You or God?
If you are a child of God, saved, born again, His Holy Spirit lives in you. You have the same potential as Paul did.
Jesus said it best in the garden of Gethsemane, "the spirit indeed is willing , but the flesh is weak."
Matthew 10:19 says, "But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak." and I remind you of the first scripture I gave you, Isaiah 55:8, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD." another I find encouraging to keep pressing on in the work of the Lord and not trust in myself for results is Proverbs 3:5,6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
If God is asking you to do or say something today, don't be afraid for He is not the author of fear, trust in Him to give you the words and the wisdom necessary to do His work. That's when life gets exciting. To see the impact, for the better, you can have in peoples life. God will take you places and have you meet people you never thought possible.
Be faithful and trust Him.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Are you selfish?
Now, I know what you might be thinking, "Oh great! She's going to tell me to let people walk all over me and not want or desire anything in life." I'm not going to say anything even close to that.
I'm sure you've heard Ms. Oprah W. talk about her experience when she was in her late twenties, concerning being in church and hearing her pastor say that God was a jealous God. She then says that she couldn't understand why God would be jealous of her.
The first thing that came to my mind when she said that was this scripture, Genesis 3:1 when satan is wanting to deceive Eve in the garden of Eden, "Now the serpent was more subtil which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?" He took what God said and slightly twisted it and was able to slowly deceive Eve into disobeying God which today's world and our seperation from God is a concequence of this first sin.
The bible does not say that God is jealous of us, it says that He is a jealous God. He does not want our heart and devotion belong to anyone or anything else. He wants us to be devoted to Him.
Now you might say, "That's pretty selfish of God." Let me ask you, don't you think He has the right to ask this of us since He created us and everything we get to enjoy like food (my favorite), friends, animals, our family, our cars (trucks, vans ect), money ect. He is not only a jealous God but He is a generous, loving and caring God. We can not out give Him. So I ask you again, doesn't He have the right to ask us to be solely devoted to Him?
So, if we are not wholely devoted to Him. He being the most important person and thing in our life, can we conclude that we are selfish? If that hurt, let me make it hurt more. Are we not only being selfish BUT being selfish with HIS stuff?
Let me get this straight... we don't want to adore Him, devote our lives to Him although He created us and blesses us while we do not even deserve it AND we still want to hoard HIS stuff for the pleasures of our life... Am I right? HMMMMM How would you feel if you friend related to you that way?
Just a thought I wanted to share with you.
I'm sure you've heard Ms. Oprah W. talk about her experience when she was in her late twenties, concerning being in church and hearing her pastor say that God was a jealous God. She then says that she couldn't understand why God would be jealous of her.
The first thing that came to my mind when she said that was this scripture, Genesis 3:1 when satan is wanting to deceive Eve in the garden of Eden, "Now the serpent was more subtil which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?" He took what God said and slightly twisted it and was able to slowly deceive Eve into disobeying God which today's world and our seperation from God is a concequence of this first sin.
The bible does not say that God is jealous of us, it says that He is a jealous God. He does not want our heart and devotion belong to anyone or anything else. He wants us to be devoted to Him.
Now you might say, "That's pretty selfish of God." Let me ask you, don't you think He has the right to ask this of us since He created us and everything we get to enjoy like food (my favorite), friends, animals, our family, our cars (trucks, vans ect), money ect. He is not only a jealous God but He is a generous, loving and caring God. We can not out give Him. So I ask you again, doesn't He have the right to ask us to be solely devoted to Him?
So, if we are not wholely devoted to Him. He being the most important person and thing in our life, can we conclude that we are selfish? If that hurt, let me make it hurt more. Are we not only being selfish BUT being selfish with HIS stuff?
Let me get this straight... we don't want to adore Him, devote our lives to Him although He created us and blesses us while we do not even deserve it AND we still want to hoard HIS stuff for the pleasures of our life... Am I right? HMMMMM How would you feel if you friend related to you that way?
Just a thought I wanted to share with you.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
It's been a while...
I'm so sorry for not having anything new for you on the weekend. I did not abandon you, I was not feeling well. I started with the flu, not stomach flu thankfully, and now strepp throat. I'm feeling better, the throat is healing well thanks to the chemist's wisdom so we have antibiotics.
Can you tell I'm feeling better?
On Friday, I wanted to share this lightbulp over my head moment, You need to picture that to understand what I mean. but where I was sick I didn't have a chance to so I will share this with you today.
My oldest daughter was going to a sleepover on Friday night and was going to sleep in sleeping bags. My boys thought that was awesome and wanted to be able to do the same. I, on the other hand, remembered that they've slept in sleeping bags before but wouldn't fall asleep until late and it would be difficult to deal with them next day. Must I explain that I wasn't as excited of the idea as they were? I did tell them I would think about it.
It was Tuesday... :/
I passively thought about it, but more specifically when Jacob, my youngest son, would bring up how he coudln't wait for Friday. Everyone would ask why and he would go on to explain the sleeping bag arrangement. Everytime he brought it up, which was often and daily, my heart would soften to the idea of letting them sleep in the sleeping bags.
Everyday, Jacob brought it up again and again and with such excitement. Then came Thursday night, returning from a creation science presentation, he brought it up again, this time Samuel finally said, "Mom? Are we really going to be able to sleep in the sleeping bags tomorrow night?" I said, "yes". To my surprise, Jacob yelled, "YAY!!!!!!!" I thought he already knew by the way he was talking all week. He's the one who basically talked me into it, just by listening to his excitement of sleeping in sleeping bags, yet here he was even more excited that he REALLY WAS going to be sleeping in those slippery sleeping bags.
Then the Lord spoke to my heart. I'd like to see more faith like that, in you.
I was taken back from that thought yet Hebrews 11:6 says,"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
You know, when I listened to the Mr. Smith give his presentation of creation vs. evolution, I couldn't help but think how it takes so much more faith to believe in evolution than it does to believe in God, yet if you look around us, the scale leans towards belief in evolution. (I'm probably going to get comments on this one!)
"But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
Let me put it to you this way. Would I of rather hear my son say, with disappointment in his voice:
Can you tell I'm feeling better?
On Friday, I wanted to share this lightbulp over my head moment, You need to picture that to understand what I mean. but where I was sick I didn't have a chance to so I will share this with you today.
My oldest daughter was going to a sleepover on Friday night and was going to sleep in sleeping bags. My boys thought that was awesome and wanted to be able to do the same. I, on the other hand, remembered that they've slept in sleeping bags before but wouldn't fall asleep until late and it would be difficult to deal with them next day. Must I explain that I wasn't as excited of the idea as they were? I did tell them I would think about it.
It was Tuesday... :/
I passively thought about it, but more specifically when Jacob, my youngest son, would bring up how he coudln't wait for Friday. Everyone would ask why and he would go on to explain the sleeping bag arrangement. Everytime he brought it up, which was often and daily, my heart would soften to the idea of letting them sleep in the sleeping bags.
Everyday, Jacob brought it up again and again and with such excitement. Then came Thursday night, returning from a creation science presentation, he brought it up again, this time Samuel finally said, "Mom? Are we really going to be able to sleep in the sleeping bags tomorrow night?" I said, "yes". To my surprise, Jacob yelled, "YAY!!!!!!!" I thought he already knew by the way he was talking all week. He's the one who basically talked me into it, just by listening to his excitement of sleeping in sleeping bags, yet here he was even more excited that he REALLY WAS going to be sleeping in those slippery sleeping bags.
Then the Lord spoke to my heart. I'd like to see more faith like that, in you.
I was taken back from that thought yet Hebrews 11:6 says,"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
You know, when I listened to the Mr. Smith give his presentation of creation vs. evolution, I couldn't help but think how it takes so much more faith to believe in evolution than it does to believe in God, yet if you look around us, the scale leans towards belief in evolution. (I'm probably going to get comments on this one!)
"But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."
Let me put it to you this way. Would I of rather hear my son say, with disappointment in his voice:
- "ahhh, mom probably won't let us sleep in the sleeping bags. You know we never can."
Or, with excitement in his voice:
- "I can't wait 'till Friday when we get to sleep in the sleeping bags!!!"
Which do you think would please me?
That spoke volumes to me. The truth is, my God is Holy, Omniscient (all knowing), Omnipresent, Mighty, The Creator of every living thing and the list goes on. Why wouldn't I have faith in His love for me? Wasn't that proven on the cross? Why wouldn't I have faith in His word, did He not promise to preserve it? (Psalm 12:6,7) Why wouldn't I have faith in His protection, doesn't He answer that in just one of many passages in Matt. 10:28-31? Why shouldn't I have faith in Him? He's proven Himself faithfull time and time again.
Maybe I'm being like Peter again, when he walked on the water. He looked at the waves and became fearful. We shouldn't look at the circumstances around us. He's bigger than all that.
The Lord used Jacob to teach me a valueable lesson, I hope I don't forget it anytime soon. When I remember who God is, it's easy to have faith that He loves me, protects me, guides me, gives me refuge, teaches me, molds me and forgives me.
Oh I love my God!! xo
Thursday, April 3, 2008
What will it be?
Last night, at our Wednesday night Bible study, we had a preacher come in to preach. His name is Cliff Taylor. We were truly exorted to keep on the journey; to follow Christ.
Another preacher I listen to, Bro. Trieber at North Valley Baptist Church, often says, "Mark your bibles and let your bible mark you". Well last night Bro. Taylor used a part of God's word to mark me.
Matthew 14:23-33 "And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God."
Bro. Taylor used this story to help us understand that sometimes, to be where God is, we must step into the storm. Some will choose to stay in the boat where it's comfortable.
I don't have the freedom to share with you what storm I am weathering out. I can tell you that I was given a choice; was I going to walk into the storm, the hard times, not turning my back on Him but, be where He is.
This might sound confusing but think about it. Whenever you are in a situation where you need to decide to do right or wrong, you are possibly stepping into the storm. Sometimes, doing right is easy and nobody around you has a problem with you doing right but, sometimes you are in an environment where right is not accepted and you will be shone, rejected and maybe even mocked for doing right. Some will continue to do walk on the wrong path even if you don't. Get the picture?
The people in the boat who watched Peter step into the storm, to be with God, could you be your friends, your family members, even some church members will watch you battle for lost souls and will opt out so they can stay in their comfort zone. Don't let that stop you from stepping out, nor going to church for that matter.
Yesterday, I prayed that the Lord would send me encouragement to weather the storm. My carnal desires sometime don't want to do right or take the higher road, choose it's battles, but He answered my prayers last night. He reminded me that in the storm, He is there.
In verse 31, when Peter began to sink, Jesus "immediately" stretched forth his hand, and caught him. He didn't stop the storm right at that moment, he grabbed Peter and stopped him from sinking. That's what my Lord did last night. Today I'm still in the storm but I'm walking through it with Him. That brings peace and assurance of a better end.
I look forward to the storm ending but until then, I'm embracing the presence, love and mercy of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Keep stepping in.
Another preacher I listen to, Bro. Trieber at North Valley Baptist Church, often says, "Mark your bibles and let your bible mark you". Well last night Bro. Taylor used a part of God's word to mark me.
Matthew 14:23-33 "And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God."
Bro. Taylor used this story to help us understand that sometimes, to be where God is, we must step into the storm. Some will choose to stay in the boat where it's comfortable.
I don't have the freedom to share with you what storm I am weathering out. I can tell you that I was given a choice; was I going to walk into the storm, the hard times, not turning my back on Him but, be where He is.
This might sound confusing but think about it. Whenever you are in a situation where you need to decide to do right or wrong, you are possibly stepping into the storm. Sometimes, doing right is easy and nobody around you has a problem with you doing right but, sometimes you are in an environment where right is not accepted and you will be shone, rejected and maybe even mocked for doing right. Some will continue to do walk on the wrong path even if you don't. Get the picture?
The people in the boat who watched Peter step into the storm, to be with God, could you be your friends, your family members, even some church members will watch you battle for lost souls and will opt out so they can stay in their comfort zone. Don't let that stop you from stepping out, nor going to church for that matter.
Yesterday, I prayed that the Lord would send me encouragement to weather the storm. My carnal desires sometime don't want to do right or take the higher road, choose it's battles, but He answered my prayers last night. He reminded me that in the storm, He is there.
In verse 31, when Peter began to sink, Jesus "immediately" stretched forth his hand, and caught him. He didn't stop the storm right at that moment, he grabbed Peter and stopped him from sinking. That's what my Lord did last night. Today I'm still in the storm but I'm walking through it with Him. That brings peace and assurance of a better end.
I look forward to the storm ending but until then, I'm embracing the presence, love and mercy of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Keep stepping in.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
What do others see?
Have you ever wondered what people see when they see you? I never really thought about it until 1997. lol
Let me explain...
I was working at a call center and was building a friendship with a lady from work. I got to talk to her about the Lord and her need of salvation. She in turn told me how she usually doesn't notice people coming in and out of the center's entrance but when I came in for my training, she said she couldn't help but turn around and stare at me. Needless to say, at this point of the conversation, I'm feeling a "little freaked out", like my son Jacob would say. She continued by saying, she was amazed when she saw me because she said to herself,"*Sigh* an angel".
Ya... I thought the same thing.
The look on my face was one raised eyebrow and the other in the frown position, saying "huhhhhhhhhh... e-x-c-u-s-e me?" Now I was convinced, she was crazy.
We laughed about it but she was serious. I went home that night and looked in the mirror to examine what she saw, but all I saw was me, no angel.
We've talked about that conversation since and she still holds on to what she saw. She is now saved and was able to explain what she saw that day. She was searching for answers to life and she could see the love I had for God in me without knowing I did.
This is a scripture that best explains it without making me sound like I'm boasting.
1 Corinthians 8:3 "But if any man love God, the same is known of him."
Why is it that some people look happy to be saved and some, you can't even tell that they are?
I've been noticing, since the day my friend said that comment about me being an angel, that we don't realize what people see when they look at those of us who are saved. If you sincerely love God and spend time getting to know Him and being changed for His glory, it shows. One place I want it most to show is at home, in front of my kids. I want them to sincerely love and serve God so if they see me love God, they might desire to also.
1 Corinthians 8:3"But if any man love God, the same is known of him."
Stay in love, you never know who's looking.
Let me explain...
I was working at a call center and was building a friendship with a lady from work. I got to talk to her about the Lord and her need of salvation. She in turn told me how she usually doesn't notice people coming in and out of the center's entrance but when I came in for my training, she said she couldn't help but turn around and stare at me. Needless to say, at this point of the conversation, I'm feeling a "little freaked out", like my son Jacob would say. She continued by saying, she was amazed when she saw me because she said to herself,"*Sigh* an angel".
Ya... I thought the same thing.
The look on my face was one raised eyebrow and the other in the frown position, saying "huhhhhhhhhh... e-x-c-u-s-e me?" Now I was convinced, she was crazy.
We laughed about it but she was serious. I went home that night and looked in the mirror to examine what she saw, but all I saw was me, no angel.
We've talked about that conversation since and she still holds on to what she saw. She is now saved and was able to explain what she saw that day. She was searching for answers to life and she could see the love I had for God in me without knowing I did.
This is a scripture that best explains it without making me sound like I'm boasting.
1 Corinthians 8:3 "But if any man love God, the same is known of him."
Why is it that some people look happy to be saved and some, you can't even tell that they are?
I've been noticing, since the day my friend said that comment about me being an angel, that we don't realize what people see when they look at those of us who are saved. If you sincerely love God and spend time getting to know Him and being changed for His glory, it shows. One place I want it most to show is at home, in front of my kids. I want them to sincerely love and serve God so if they see me love God, they might desire to also.
1 Corinthians 8:3"But if any man love God, the same is known of him."
Stay in love, you never know who's looking.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
How good am I?
Last night, as I read in the old testament, the Lord continued the thought process I've been on concerning works and heaven.
I grew up Catholic until I recognized I needed to be reconciled to God. That I was a sinner no matter how good I could of been, which I was far from. I accepted Jesus' payment for my sins and repented of them. I was saved, forgiven and I walked in the opposite direction I was previously walking. I was now walking with Jesus so I wanted my life to be parallel with God's word.
My inlaws and extended family are Catholic and I love them very much. Actually, my 93 year old paternal grand mother was just diagnosed with breast cancer and is going for her biopsy today so, would you keep her in prayer?
As you know, Easter has just passed. My daughter's birthday was on Easter Monday so, we decided to do her birthday on Good Friday since my husband was off that day. Some of our family didn't come because they were not eating meat on Good Friday. I was frustrated by knowing many are caught up in the religious side of Jesus. He is not religious. He asks us to not be caught up in tradition and in man made religious works. The bible says in Ephesians 2:8,9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast."
It honestly breaks my heart to see people in bondage to religious works. "I have to do this, I have to do that. I hope my good works outdo my bad works?!" Paul said it best in James 2:18 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." That's what works are for, to show others our faith.
Who is behind our attitudes, our giving, our integrity, honesty, compassion etc. If you live to please God because you are His child and love Him, your works will demonstrate that. Remember, you could be His child and not love Him with all your heart, that will show up in your works too.
Coming back to salvation is not through works.
This is the scripture God used to reinforce His word. Job 35:7, "If thou be righteous, what givest thou Him? or what receiveth He of thine hand?" If we think we are good enough to go to heaven based on our works, let us test it by offering those best works to God. Were they actually good enough to give? Were they perfect in every moment of doing that work? Did pride ever creep up while you offered that gift of work? Is it a pure gift? You say, "Well what about Mother Theresa?" Whether Mother Theresa is in heaven or hell is of no difference to those left here. She had to face God for her own life, and you will face God for yours. Besides, are you saying that you even close to being as good as her? Doubt it. I know I'm not, but I'm saved, that's what I'm trusting in, not my works.
I don't know who is out there reading my blog. I don't know where you are standing when it comes to God but, I know one thing, if you haven't trusted in Jesus' shed blood for a payment for your sins, nor accepted Him to be your Saviour, you are headed for hell. There is life after death but there's two places we can live that life; heaven and hell. Hell is not what we picture on beer commercials either. It will not be a great party. The bible says in Matthew 24:51, that, "there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Don't be fooled and try to do it on your own, choose the right way.
John 14:6" Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
Keep safe
I grew up Catholic until I recognized I needed to be reconciled to God. That I was a sinner no matter how good I could of been, which I was far from. I accepted Jesus' payment for my sins and repented of them. I was saved, forgiven and I walked in the opposite direction I was previously walking. I was now walking with Jesus so I wanted my life to be parallel with God's word.
My inlaws and extended family are Catholic and I love them very much. Actually, my 93 year old paternal grand mother was just diagnosed with breast cancer and is going for her biopsy today so, would you keep her in prayer?
As you know, Easter has just passed. My daughter's birthday was on Easter Monday so, we decided to do her birthday on Good Friday since my husband was off that day. Some of our family didn't come because they were not eating meat on Good Friday. I was frustrated by knowing many are caught up in the religious side of Jesus. He is not religious. He asks us to not be caught up in tradition and in man made religious works. The bible says in Ephesians 2:8,9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast."
It honestly breaks my heart to see people in bondage to religious works. "I have to do this, I have to do that. I hope my good works outdo my bad works?!" Paul said it best in James 2:18 "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." That's what works are for, to show others our faith.
Who is behind our attitudes, our giving, our integrity, honesty, compassion etc. If you live to please God because you are His child and love Him, your works will demonstrate that. Remember, you could be His child and not love Him with all your heart, that will show up in your works too.
Coming back to salvation is not through works.
This is the scripture God used to reinforce His word. Job 35:7, "If thou be righteous, what givest thou Him? or what receiveth He of thine hand?" If we think we are good enough to go to heaven based on our works, let us test it by offering those best works to God. Were they actually good enough to give? Were they perfect in every moment of doing that work? Did pride ever creep up while you offered that gift of work? Is it a pure gift? You say, "Well what about Mother Theresa?" Whether Mother Theresa is in heaven or hell is of no difference to those left here. She had to face God for her own life, and you will face God for yours. Besides, are you saying that you even close to being as good as her? Doubt it. I know I'm not, but I'm saved, that's what I'm trusting in, not my works.
I don't know who is out there reading my blog. I don't know where you are standing when it comes to God but, I know one thing, if you haven't trusted in Jesus' shed blood for a payment for your sins, nor accepted Him to be your Saviour, you are headed for hell. There is life after death but there's two places we can live that life; heaven and hell. Hell is not what we picture on beer commercials either. It will not be a great party. The bible says in Matthew 24:51, that, "there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."
Don't be fooled and try to do it on your own, choose the right way.
John 14:6" Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
Keep safe
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