Amazingly, I had never read this book before. Maybe because now was when I needed to read it. I felt as though a lot of what I think was much more eloquently expressed in C.S. Lewis' words. At the same time it provoked me to think and to try new perspectives, bringing back things that I had once forgotten and lighting up new ideas as well.
I've spent some of this year, actually a lot, trying to figure out my faith and myself. I've tried to give more devotion to the word of God, as well as reading other books to open up my willingness to think.
One thing I've learned this year is that I've stagnated. I've stopped really actively pursuing growth. I have allowed road blocks, doubts, obstacles, fears, and so much more pacify me from truly experiencing life itself. When I was a child I had such big dreams of what I could do and be. Here I sit and so much of that has disappeared. Oh there is still plenty I want to do and be, but the idea that I could be has gone by the wayside. Between the naysayers, my own acceptance, and a lack of confidence, I've allowed myself to dream in vain. I do still dream these possibilities, but I haven't truly believed them. And in this, I am a hypocrite. I try to encourage my children and tell them that if they are willing to do the work, even when it is hard and they don't want to, in the end they can be and do things that they dream. Yet what example have I set for them? How have I shown them the truth of my words? I have not been willing to work hard for what I want, especially when the work is unappealing. Instead I get easily overwhelmed and anxious with all the doubt and fear flowing through my brain that I give up all too quickly or put my dreams on the back burner and then leave them there.Honestly, I have more than enough to distract myself with and in some, I'm justified in doing so. And yet, where do these dreams, these desires come from. They've been the same pretty much all my life. Could it be God calling me? Is it possible I'm too intimidated by the world to really open up and answer Him? Possibly. But why? Because, God can't use me if I'm unwilling, and there is certainly someone out there who doesn't want us to fulfill the desires of God.
I've struggled with the vicious "who am I and what is the purpose of my life" debate for years. The problem is, the answer has always been right in front of me, but I've always acted as though it was not enough. That it had to be more complicated than that. However, I've been wrong. The simple truth is, I am God's and my purpose is to live in Him. Everything I do and am is because He made me and made it possible for me to do and be those things. I am not going to be the best, by the world's standards.In fact, plenty of people will probably be unimpressed by what I do. At the same time, I shouldn't be worried about the world's standards (or really anything) because I'm not of this world. The pining in my heart for something more, that I can not pin point but often consider wanderlust is my hunger to be with Him. It is for Him that I should do everything, without fear, knowing that He is pleased with my wholeheartedness more than he is with the way I sound or how well I write or anything else. And it is for Him that I do the things I do. He wants for my heart, for all of our hearts to be whole, truly complete, and that can only happen in Him.
My hope and prayer for the coming year, is that I will allow him to peel off this suit of inhibition I've been wearing and unravel the strings of fear, doubt, and other things that have kept such a dreadful suit tied on me all these years, that I might finally begin to truly walk in the freedom He has given us. The freedom to do all things for Him and through Him.
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Monday, September 30, 2013
Ruth
We are currently studying the book of Ruth in my bible study group, though I haven't actually participated in the meetings for this as I've been going to meetings for my Mary Kay business. However, I have been reading along.
Ruth is admirable to me. I mean how amazing would it be to have a relationship that strong with your mother-in-law for starters. She worked hard to do what she could to care for her mother-in-law. Ruth valued the advice and instruction of Naomi. At the same time Naomi was so loving towards Ruth as though she were her own daughter. She held Ruth's best interest in her heart. I think Ruth is a good example of a virtuous woman. Working willingly with her hands and devoted, among other things.
I have a friend, that as of late, comes to my mind as I read about the proverbs 31 woman as well as Ruth. She is there at the drop of a hat, if you need her, even if it means rearranging her schedule and inconveniencing herself to help you. She gives all she can, willingly and not grudgingly. She is devoted to her family, friends, and calling. Her priorities seem to be in order, even if she feels like she fails everyday. Her daughters are well cared for and wonderfully loved by her. Her husband is as well. She does all she can with what she has to make a good life for her family. I am inspired by her. To know a real live virtuous woman. I see her humbleness and humility. Her love and compassion. Her faith. Every time we are together, she never ceases to show strong character. I can only pray that I also have such strong and righteous character.
This friend, along with the book of Ruth, remind me of how important it is for the women of the church, to band together in strong, loving relationships. Not just the women, but the whole church, in fact all people in general. We need people in our lives who truly have our best interest as their motivation. People we can seek counsel from, who will be there for us in prayer and devotion. To support each other and provide for whatever needs we can, with compassion. We all need this and we all need to be this. To be someone that people are safe with and can be honest with. To be a listening ear and willing servant, with a loving and merciful heart.
Ruth is admirable to me. I mean how amazing would it be to have a relationship that strong with your mother-in-law for starters. She worked hard to do what she could to care for her mother-in-law. Ruth valued the advice and instruction of Naomi. At the same time Naomi was so loving towards Ruth as though she were her own daughter. She held Ruth's best interest in her heart. I think Ruth is a good example of a virtuous woman. Working willingly with her hands and devoted, among other things.
I have a friend, that as of late, comes to my mind as I read about the proverbs 31 woman as well as Ruth. She is there at the drop of a hat, if you need her, even if it means rearranging her schedule and inconveniencing herself to help you. She gives all she can, willingly and not grudgingly. She is devoted to her family, friends, and calling. Her priorities seem to be in order, even if she feels like she fails everyday. Her daughters are well cared for and wonderfully loved by her. Her husband is as well. She does all she can with what she has to make a good life for her family. I am inspired by her. To know a real live virtuous woman. I see her humbleness and humility. Her love and compassion. Her faith. Every time we are together, she never ceases to show strong character. I can only pray that I also have such strong and righteous character.
This friend, along with the book of Ruth, remind me of how important it is for the women of the church, to band together in strong, loving relationships. Not just the women, but the whole church, in fact all people in general. We need people in our lives who truly have our best interest as their motivation. People we can seek counsel from, who will be there for us in prayer and devotion. To support each other and provide for whatever needs we can, with compassion. We all need this and we all need to be this. To be someone that people are safe with and can be honest with. To be a listening ear and willing servant, with a loving and merciful heart.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Modesty
I've always tried to instill, in my daughters, an appreciation for their bodies and their future husbands, (if they get married someday) through modesty. As my sons get older, I realize how important it is for them as well. Not just to respect and appreciate a woman's modesty, but to practice their own.
Too often I hear discussions on women as objects and about the current lack of modesty among many women. How, when women choose not to use modesty, they put our christian brothers in a place of temptation. Of course, each of us has our own perspective of what modesty is. To some, they immediately think of a woman completely covered from head to toe. To others, it simply means to cover what we were once taught were our privates. And we always seem to think it is a woman's responsibility.
I ask, what about the men? Shouldn't they also practice modesty to protect women from temptation? Are we not also sexual beings, drawn to the physique of a man? I know I am!
I met a man recently, who believed he should be able to wear a speedo, without question or persecution. After all, women walk around in swimsuits that look like undergarments all the time. If they can, then he should as well. That is equality. He has a point. We are all equally responsible for how we treat our bodies and represent them to others.
Modesty isn't just for the ladies.
Too often I hear discussions on women as objects and about the current lack of modesty among many women. How, when women choose not to use modesty, they put our christian brothers in a place of temptation. Of course, each of us has our own perspective of what modesty is. To some, they immediately think of a woman completely covered from head to toe. To others, it simply means to cover what we were once taught were our privates. And we always seem to think it is a woman's responsibility.
I ask, what about the men? Shouldn't they also practice modesty to protect women from temptation? Are we not also sexual beings, drawn to the physique of a man? I know I am!
I met a man recently, who believed he should be able to wear a speedo, without question or persecution. After all, women walk around in swimsuits that look like undergarments all the time. If they can, then he should as well. That is equality. He has a point. We are all equally responsible for how we treat our bodies and represent them to others.
Modesty isn't just for the ladies.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Growing Spiritualy
It never ceases to amaze me, how faithful God is. Today was a rough day. It was one of "those" days. It left me feeling inadequate as a mother, frustrated with my parenting and with my children, and wondering "What do I do? How can things change?"
I will admit, I'm a fan of the Duggars. I think they are an inspiration and willing tools for God. The kids and I watched a couple of their episodes last night after church. I'm thankful I did. One episode showed their son Jackson climbing on things, jumping off things, and well, being a boy! Earlier that day, I had dealt with my sons running around chasing each other and wrestling in a small crowded room as I tried to register my oldest blessing for the upcoming soccer season. I could feel the eyes upon me and could only imagine what people were thinking. As I stood in line thinking about this, God spoke to my heart and reminded me, at home this stuff is funny. Maybe it wasn't the best location for their shenanigans, but the fact is they were doing what little boys do. I could worry about what everyone else might be thinking, or I could lighten up and praise God that I'm so richly blessed, knowing that later it would be funny to look back on.
This morning however, was just not a happy one. Remembering to "lighten up" fell off my radar as I went through the same old teeth pulling with my girls about being active team players in the house keeping. It got worse when my younger daughter turned in her overdue book report and I read it. It was pretty much exactly what the back of the book said with a few things changed here and there... In some ways, I can look on that now and find humor in it and even a sense of pride. Not over the fact that she lied, but over her cleverness. Unfortunately for her, I know that trick and she now has to redo her book report.
I hate fighting with my kids and feel like it has become a theme in our home, especially with the girls. I dread the day the hormones really start to fly around this house.
In my discouragement, I wondered what do the Duggars do to make it all work. Is there hope for my family, or did the past mistakes my husband and I have made ruin everything? I went to their website and God showed me what I've been looking for. Answers to the "What do I do? How can things change." and He even opened my eyes to show me, I do more than I realize.
I hope that I can take what He has revealed to my heart and allow it to bear fruit. My first goal in making this change is to learn how to praise my children 10 times more than I correct them. I know I praise my kids some, but I do way more correcting and yelling, nagging, and complaining than I do praising.
I am in awe at how excited God is to watch me grow and to be what grows me. Along with these things, God also answered the question in my heart. "Why is it that I can't go a week outside of his word or church, without it feeling like I've grown so distant from Him." The answer? When we take our focus off of what is eternal, we're left focusing on the things of this world. When the things of the world become our priority, we turn from God, towards our carnal desires and our flesh grows stronger while our spirit grows weaker. The wolf within us that we feed will be the wolf that thrives. (paraphrased of course)
I will admit, I'm a fan of the Duggars. I think they are an inspiration and willing tools for God. The kids and I watched a couple of their episodes last night after church. I'm thankful I did. One episode showed their son Jackson climbing on things, jumping off things, and well, being a boy! Earlier that day, I had dealt with my sons running around chasing each other and wrestling in a small crowded room as I tried to register my oldest blessing for the upcoming soccer season. I could feel the eyes upon me and could only imagine what people were thinking. As I stood in line thinking about this, God spoke to my heart and reminded me, at home this stuff is funny. Maybe it wasn't the best location for their shenanigans, but the fact is they were doing what little boys do. I could worry about what everyone else might be thinking, or I could lighten up and praise God that I'm so richly blessed, knowing that later it would be funny to look back on.
This morning however, was just not a happy one. Remembering to "lighten up" fell off my radar as I went through the same old teeth pulling with my girls about being active team players in the house keeping. It got worse when my younger daughter turned in her overdue book report and I read it. It was pretty much exactly what the back of the book said with a few things changed here and there... In some ways, I can look on that now and find humor in it and even a sense of pride. Not over the fact that she lied, but over her cleverness. Unfortunately for her, I know that trick and she now has to redo her book report.
I hate fighting with my kids and feel like it has become a theme in our home, especially with the girls. I dread the day the hormones really start to fly around this house.
In my discouragement, I wondered what do the Duggars do to make it all work. Is there hope for my family, or did the past mistakes my husband and I have made ruin everything? I went to their website and God showed me what I've been looking for. Answers to the "What do I do? How can things change." and He even opened my eyes to show me, I do more than I realize.
I hope that I can take what He has revealed to my heart and allow it to bear fruit. My first goal in making this change is to learn how to praise my children 10 times more than I correct them. I know I praise my kids some, but I do way more correcting and yelling, nagging, and complaining than I do praising.
I am in awe at how excited God is to watch me grow and to be what grows me. Along with these things, God also answered the question in my heart. "Why is it that I can't go a week outside of his word or church, without it feeling like I've grown so distant from Him." The answer? When we take our focus off of what is eternal, we're left focusing on the things of this world. When the things of the world become our priority, we turn from God, towards our carnal desires and our flesh grows stronger while our spirit grows weaker. The wolf within us that we feed will be the wolf that thrives. (paraphrased of course)
Sunday, July 7, 2013
It's Time to Grow and Go
This year, I decided to do a "bible in a year" challenge. I've had weeks where I've not read, weeks where I've tried to catch up, and weeks where I've been ahead. What does that mean? I've not been reading regularly. It also means, I haven't really put much into my faith. It hasn't been a daily quest for me to grow in God's word.
Sure I pray every day, but many times it seems to be a pretty generic prayer. Not much in the way of really conversing with my Abba Father.
I go to church pretty much every time there is a service. I even participate in different church ministries. Once I leave the building, though, the world is ready and waiting to consume me once again.
As I've mentioned before, I've been participating in a bible study group this year, also. We started with the book "Forgotten God" by Francis Chan. When I had my baby, I stopped participating in the group for a bit, but continued reading through to the end of the book. It's a really good book about the Holy Spirit. As I read it, I began to question how I look at, and react to, God's Holy Spirit. My birthday was during my "hiatus" from bible study and my oldest blessing got me another book to read. "Follow Me" by David Platt. This is another book worth reading. I'm about half way through it. It has me questioning my life as a Christian. It goes hand in hand with what I've been feeling weigh on my heart lately.
At church we've been doing a series called "Body Building" (you can listen to it at the church website. http://tecumseh-ag.org/) In the bible study group, we are studying the book of Hebrews. And on my own, I've been devouring the bible in the past week or so. The more I feed on the word of the Lord the more I realize something.
I want to go deeper.
I want to know what the bible truly says. I want to understand what it means. I want to really know my God. The one I claim is my Lord and savior.
What is the point of claiming to be a Christian if I'm not devoted to the one that Christianity is all about?
I read about Moses, Ruth, Esther, David, Daniel, Peter, Paul, Stephen, etc... and I think "Why are they so important that they are in this book?" "What is so special about them?"
The answer? Their character. Did they sin, yes. We're ALL sinners. "For ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God!" Romans 3:23 In spite of that, these people hungered and thirsted after righteousness. They desired to be with God and in God. To have God be in them. Not to say we are gods. I don't believe that. But we are a part of our Heavenly Father. After all, God breathed life into us.
I want to be like these people. People who did whatever they could to serve the Lord. That even when they fell, they cried out to Him to pick them back up again. Who were bold and courageous and couldn't help but speak gloriously of His name.
It is His command that we share the good news through out the whole world, that ALL may hear and be saved.
I don't want the kool-aid, make everyone happy, kind of Christianity anymore. I want to have true Christianity. A deep spiritual relationship with God, a desire to go forth and grow and share and bring the blessing of good news to all who will hear. To turn from the ways of the world and chase after Him who made all things. For if I am in Him I am no longer part of this world. The things we treasure here on Earth, in this life, mean so little in the grand scheme of things. Money, materials, status, what is it worth when we are dead? It doesn't matter if you believe in an after life or not, these things are useless once you depart from this existence
We sing songs in church all the time and along with the radio, but do we truly mean what the words are saying? We pray, but is it superficial? Christians, what are we living for? God or the world? Can others truly see that we belong to our King? Or do we look just like everyone else?
Maybe you aren't a Christian and you think this is all pretty crazy, God is still your Lord even if you don't believe He is your savior. And the truth is, you can't really know Him just by looking at those who claim they do. If you really want to know the truth about God, read the bible and ask God who He really is. To show Himself to you. God will answer you.
Sure I pray every day, but many times it seems to be a pretty generic prayer. Not much in the way of really conversing with my Abba Father.
I go to church pretty much every time there is a service. I even participate in different church ministries. Once I leave the building, though, the world is ready and waiting to consume me once again.
As I've mentioned before, I've been participating in a bible study group this year, also. We started with the book "Forgotten God" by Francis Chan. When I had my baby, I stopped participating in the group for a bit, but continued reading through to the end of the book. It's a really good book about the Holy Spirit. As I read it, I began to question how I look at, and react to, God's Holy Spirit. My birthday was during my "hiatus" from bible study and my oldest blessing got me another book to read. "Follow Me" by David Platt. This is another book worth reading. I'm about half way through it. It has me questioning my life as a Christian. It goes hand in hand with what I've been feeling weigh on my heart lately.
At church we've been doing a series called "Body Building" (you can listen to it at the church website. http://tecumseh-ag.org/) In the bible study group, we are studying the book of Hebrews. And on my own, I've been devouring the bible in the past week or so. The more I feed on the word of the Lord the more I realize something.
I want to go deeper.
I want to know what the bible truly says. I want to understand what it means. I want to really know my God. The one I claim is my Lord and savior.
What is the point of claiming to be a Christian if I'm not devoted to the one that Christianity is all about?
I read about Moses, Ruth, Esther, David, Daniel, Peter, Paul, Stephen, etc... and I think "Why are they so important that they are in this book?" "What is so special about them?"
The answer? Their character. Did they sin, yes. We're ALL sinners. "For ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God!" Romans 3:23 In spite of that, these people hungered and thirsted after righteousness. They desired to be with God and in God. To have God be in them. Not to say we are gods. I don't believe that. But we are a part of our Heavenly Father. After all, God breathed life into us.
I want to be like these people. People who did whatever they could to serve the Lord. That even when they fell, they cried out to Him to pick them back up again. Who were bold and courageous and couldn't help but speak gloriously of His name.
It is His command that we share the good news through out the whole world, that ALL may hear and be saved.
I don't want the kool-aid, make everyone happy, kind of Christianity anymore. I want to have true Christianity. A deep spiritual relationship with God, a desire to go forth and grow and share and bring the blessing of good news to all who will hear. To turn from the ways of the world and chase after Him who made all things. For if I am in Him I am no longer part of this world. The things we treasure here on Earth, in this life, mean so little in the grand scheme of things. Money, materials, status, what is it worth when we are dead? It doesn't matter if you believe in an after life or not, these things are useless once you depart from this existence
We sing songs in church all the time and along with the radio, but do we truly mean what the words are saying? We pray, but is it superficial? Christians, what are we living for? God or the world? Can others truly see that we belong to our King? Or do we look just like everyone else?
Maybe you aren't a Christian and you think this is all pretty crazy, God is still your Lord even if you don't believe He is your savior. And the truth is, you can't really know Him just by looking at those who claim they do. If you really want to know the truth about God, read the bible and ask God who He really is. To show Himself to you. God will answer you.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Can You See Him? Part 2
Today's sermon focused on seeing God in our decisions. The focus was on Saul/Paul and Ananias and how they trusted God and decided to follow the steps God laid before them, leading to Saul/Paul's conversion. The notes below are what I took as important things to learn and apply in my own life, from what was shared.
Do we see God in our decisions?
God wants us to know His plan, purpose, and will. Instead of giving us an entire map of those plans, though, He gives us a step to start with. There is a reason we say that sometimes the best thing to do is take baby steps. By faith, with trust, we can take the first step He gives us, knowing that when we do He will show us the next step. The thing is, it is up to us to respond and sometimes, we just don't want to. We pray over and over, "God show me the way!" but when He does we don't like His answer. Either because, we expect Him to lay it out for us, completely, because otherwise we won't trust Him. Or because we feel that what He is leading us to do seems too difficult, risky, scary, or just down right impossible. However, if we will stop clinging to fear, doubt, and the flesh, God will lead us and guide us. He will confirm His involvement in our decisions and in our lives. We need to TRUST God, His plans, purpose, and will, and that He will lead us and guide us.
For the actual sermon check out: http://tecumseh-ag.org/sermons/
Scriptures from the sermon:
John 12:32
32 And I, when I am lifted up[a] from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
Isaiah 46:10
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,
Do we see God in our decisions?
God wants us to know His plan, purpose, and will. Instead of giving us an entire map of those plans, though, He gives us a step to start with. There is a reason we say that sometimes the best thing to do is take baby steps. By faith, with trust, we can take the first step He gives us, knowing that when we do He will show us the next step. The thing is, it is up to us to respond and sometimes, we just don't want to. We pray over and over, "God show me the way!" but when He does we don't like His answer. Either because, we expect Him to lay it out for us, completely, because otherwise we won't trust Him. Or because we feel that what He is leading us to do seems too difficult, risky, scary, or just down right impossible. However, if we will stop clinging to fear, doubt, and the flesh, God will lead us and guide us. He will confirm His involvement in our decisions and in our lives. We need to TRUST God, His plans, purpose, and will, and that He will lead us and guide us.
For the actual sermon check out: http://tecumseh-ag.org/sermons/
Scriptures from the sermon:
John 12:32
New International Version (NIV)
Isaiah 46:10
New International Version (NIV)
10 I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
Acts 9:1-18
New International Version (NIV)
Saul’s Conversion
9 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,
Philippians 3:4-6
Mark 10:27
27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
New International Version (NIV)
4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.Mark 10:27
New International Version (NIV)
Romans 5:8
8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
New International Version (NIV)
Psalm 119:105
7 For we live by faith, not by sight.
New International Version (NIV)
105 Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path.
a light on my path.
2 Corinthians 5:7
New International Version (NIV)
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Forgotten God
I have started reading 'Forgotten God' as part of a small group that a couple of my friends started. So far I've gotten through the introduction, which I recommend reading, as well as the first 2 chapters.
Last night we held the first small group since we've gotten the books. I must say, God is awesome. The bible says we are to confess our sins with our mouths. Too often, I feel like I have no one to really confess to. In the church, I think, we all too often feel we have to live up to an image or standard and to share what we are truly struggling with, for many, just leaves us more vulnerable than we are ready to be. It is making a commitment to fully surrender a part of ourselves to someone, not knowing if we can trust them. The same can be said of our circle of friends. We know they have problems and struggles and stuff too. I have friends I've been friends with for years. Even though I've never been shy about sharing my faith and beliefs with these friends, or they with me, I don't pray with them. Why? It feels awkward. It is opening a side of my self, my life, that I should be able to with people I truly call my friends, and yet I find it to be so unappealing. Too easy to be hurt by. God knows how hungry I've been to find friends that I can truly have a spiritual relationship with. It's, in my opinion, one of the deepest, most intimate, and personal relationships I can have with others. Which may be why I'm so choosey and so cautious about having them. Last night, God showed me, I do. This is a great group of people. They've accepted me as a person, but are also not afraid to be there for me as spiritual accountability partners. To pray and seek God with me and not just say "Oh, I'll pray for you about that!" or "I'll keep you in my prayers" and then probably never pray for me, because they don't actually pray that often. I say that, because I've done that!
Last night as we began to discuss the book, the Holy Spirit began to move. Not only were confessions made, but I know my eyes were opened to things that I hadn't thought about before. How can others see that God is in me? Am I like a caterpillar who has an amazing metamorphosis and it's quite obvious there has been a change, or do I still look and act just like the rest of the world? Am I quenching God's Spirit, or am I letting the Spirit move freely within me? In all honesty, I do have fears. Fear of what others think of me and how they might perceive me if the Holy Spirit did move in me in a powerful and boisterous way. Having attended more than enough televangelist/traveling ministry things that came through town, I have become skeptical and critical of the dramatic ways in which these people behave and what they say. It is true, also, that I am the typical creature of habit, comfort, and sheltering. But God calls us to come out of our hiding places, to step out of our comfort zones, and to do things that don't always make sense to us from a human perspective. In these ways, I quench the Holy Spirit. I stifle the Holy Ghost. I reject the Spirit of God. But I don't usually think about that.
Forgotten God is about rediscovering the Holy Spirit, the comforter, the counselor, and re-evaluating how we allow the Spirit to move in and through us or maybe we don't. What is our relationship with the Holy Ghost? What should it be? What does the bible actually say about the Holy Spirit and His importance?
I'm looking forward to continuing this journey of rediscovering and re-evaluating as I read Forgotten God and share with the small group. As we pray together and allow ourselves to really let go and let God. I believe the Holy Spirit is extremely important in our spiritual life and I want more of Him in my life. I want to be like the caterpillar who becomes a butterfly.
Last night we held the first small group since we've gotten the books. I must say, God is awesome. The bible says we are to confess our sins with our mouths. Too often, I feel like I have no one to really confess to. In the church, I think, we all too often feel we have to live up to an image or standard and to share what we are truly struggling with, for many, just leaves us more vulnerable than we are ready to be. It is making a commitment to fully surrender a part of ourselves to someone, not knowing if we can trust them. The same can be said of our circle of friends. We know they have problems and struggles and stuff too. I have friends I've been friends with for years. Even though I've never been shy about sharing my faith and beliefs with these friends, or they with me, I don't pray with them. Why? It feels awkward. It is opening a side of my self, my life, that I should be able to with people I truly call my friends, and yet I find it to be so unappealing. Too easy to be hurt by. God knows how hungry I've been to find friends that I can truly have a spiritual relationship with. It's, in my opinion, one of the deepest, most intimate, and personal relationships I can have with others. Which may be why I'm so choosey and so cautious about having them. Last night, God showed me, I do. This is a great group of people. They've accepted me as a person, but are also not afraid to be there for me as spiritual accountability partners. To pray and seek God with me and not just say "Oh, I'll pray for you about that!" or "I'll keep you in my prayers" and then probably never pray for me, because they don't actually pray that often. I say that, because I've done that!
Last night as we began to discuss the book, the Holy Spirit began to move. Not only were confessions made, but I know my eyes were opened to things that I hadn't thought about before. How can others see that God is in me? Am I like a caterpillar who has an amazing metamorphosis and it's quite obvious there has been a change, or do I still look and act just like the rest of the world? Am I quenching God's Spirit, or am I letting the Spirit move freely within me? In all honesty, I do have fears. Fear of what others think of me and how they might perceive me if the Holy Spirit did move in me in a powerful and boisterous way. Having attended more than enough televangelist/traveling ministry things that came through town, I have become skeptical and critical of the dramatic ways in which these people behave and what they say. It is true, also, that I am the typical creature of habit, comfort, and sheltering. But God calls us to come out of our hiding places, to step out of our comfort zones, and to do things that don't always make sense to us from a human perspective. In these ways, I quench the Holy Spirit. I stifle the Holy Ghost. I reject the Spirit of God. But I don't usually think about that.
Forgotten God is about rediscovering the Holy Spirit, the comforter, the counselor, and re-evaluating how we allow the Spirit to move in and through us or maybe we don't. What is our relationship with the Holy Ghost? What should it be? What does the bible actually say about the Holy Spirit and His importance?
I'm looking forward to continuing this journey of rediscovering and re-evaluating as I read Forgotten God and share with the small group. As we pray together and allow ourselves to really let go and let God. I believe the Holy Spirit is extremely important in our spiritual life and I want more of Him in my life. I want to be like the caterpillar who becomes a butterfly.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Can You See Him?
This is the current sermon topic at my church. Just started it yesterday. Pretty timely for me, but I'll get to that in a bit. Understand, these are *my* notes, personal thoughts, and opinions from the sermon. Remember that each person will take, from a message, what reaches out to them and what I take may not be what you would've taken. If you'd like to listen to the sermon for yourself you can check it out at http://tecumseh-ag.org/sermons/ . Sermons are not always posted immediately. If you don't see the one you are looking for, just check back another time. Now on to *my* notes.
Too many times we miss what is right in front of us. Even though it is there, we somehow manage to overlook or take no notice of it. The example my pastor gave, and I'm sure many of us can relate, is when a husband looks in the fridge and can't find something. He asks the wife, "Honey! Where's the ______?" The wife either walks over and pulls it out or gives directions to where it is. The item in question was there the whole time, but the man couldn't "for the life of him" find it. This is too often true with Jesus. He is there, working in our lives, constantly, yet we do not always see him. At least not until we look back over something after it is over. Kind of like the other day when my massage was cancelled. As disappointing as that was, I believe it was a blessing, since the weather turned nasty during the time frame I would've been getting that massage.
When we make Jesus our focal point, our center, our foundation, we have hope and our faith in him is stronger. As Christians it is important for us to stayed focused on God in the good times and the bad, that others might learn to see Him also. When we aren't in alignment with Him, we lose our hope and we don't see Him as easily. Neither do those around us.
Yesterday, someone I know posted a link, on facebook (of course), to an article about a couple in NY. They were on their way to the hospital, in a cab, to have their first baby. The cab was struck by another vehicle and the passengers of that vehicle fled the scene. Last I knew, the cab driver was alive, but the couple didn't make it. Amazingly, their baby did. The person who posted the link stated that the couple's, who were Orthodox Jews, God was cruel. Normally I ignore posts that are bound to become dramatic or confrontational. This time, I couldn't. The person couldn't believe that God would take the parents and let the baby live. I, personally, didn't view the it like that. In the end I told the person that blaming God for the death of the parents was like blaming the Devil when you do something wrong. We have free will. We have a choice to make and our choices do impact others good or bad. Our choices have consequences good or bad, whether we believe in God or not. That is a simple fact. And to me, this wasn't about God failing this couple. It was about other people making a bad decision that impacted the lives of others. If anything, God took something tragic, something horrible, and still managed to bring about a blessing, a miracle. Instead of being angry or seeking to blame someone or something for what happened, though, we should be focused on praying for that baby and for the ones the couple left behind. Bad things happen. It sucks, but life goes on. How will we let it go on? Will we let our focus be on God, or will leave our focus on the things of the world?
When we have faith, the Holy Spirit can "turn on the lights" and "open our blinded eyes" to see what we couldn't see before.
Side Note: The truth is, there is a war going on all around us. There is a God *AND* a Devil. Can you believe one is at fault and deny the existence of the other? Even if you don't believe in God or the Devil, there is at least Good and Evil. Which one will win the war over you? That choice is yours.
Scriptures from the sermon:
(Found on www.biblegateway.com )
12 Therefore,
since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us
throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.
And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Psalm 119:11
9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
32 And I, when I am lifted up[a] from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
19 The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the Lord delivers him from them all;
13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles[a] from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him.
17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
19 “What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.
11 They will perish, but you remain;
they will all wear out like a garment
Too many times we miss what is right in front of us. Even though it is there, we somehow manage to overlook or take no notice of it. The example my pastor gave, and I'm sure many of us can relate, is when a husband looks in the fridge and can't find something. He asks the wife, "Honey! Where's the ______?" The wife either walks over and pulls it out or gives directions to where it is. The item in question was there the whole time, but the man couldn't "for the life of him" find it. This is too often true with Jesus. He is there, working in our lives, constantly, yet we do not always see him. At least not until we look back over something after it is over. Kind of like the other day when my massage was cancelled. As disappointing as that was, I believe it was a blessing, since the weather turned nasty during the time frame I would've been getting that massage.
When we make Jesus our focal point, our center, our foundation, we have hope and our faith in him is stronger. As Christians it is important for us to stayed focused on God in the good times and the bad, that others might learn to see Him also. When we aren't in alignment with Him, we lose our hope and we don't see Him as easily. Neither do those around us.
Yesterday, someone I know posted a link, on facebook (of course), to an article about a couple in NY. They were on their way to the hospital, in a cab, to have their first baby. The cab was struck by another vehicle and the passengers of that vehicle fled the scene. Last I knew, the cab driver was alive, but the couple didn't make it. Amazingly, their baby did. The person who posted the link stated that the couple's, who were Orthodox Jews, God was cruel. Normally I ignore posts that are bound to become dramatic or confrontational. This time, I couldn't. The person couldn't believe that God would take the parents and let the baby live. I, personally, didn't view the it like that. In the end I told the person that blaming God for the death of the parents was like blaming the Devil when you do something wrong. We have free will. We have a choice to make and our choices do impact others good or bad. Our choices have consequences good or bad, whether we believe in God or not. That is a simple fact. And to me, this wasn't about God failing this couple. It was about other people making a bad decision that impacted the lives of others. If anything, God took something tragic, something horrible, and still managed to bring about a blessing, a miracle. Instead of being angry or seeking to blame someone or something for what happened, though, we should be focused on praying for that baby and for the ones the couple left behind. Bad things happen. It sucks, but life goes on. How will we let it go on? Will we let our focus be on God, or will leave our focus on the things of the world?
When we have faith, the Holy Spirit can "turn on the lights" and "open our blinded eyes" to see what we couldn't see before.
Side Note: The truth is, there is a war going on all around us. There is a God *AND* a Devil. Can you believe one is at fault and deny the existence of the other? Even if you don't believe in God or the Devil, there is at least Good and Evil. Which one will win the war over you? That choice is yours.
Scriptures from the sermon:
(Found on www.biblegateway.com )
Hebrews 12:1-2
New International Version (NIV)
Psalm 119:11
New International Version (NIV)
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
that I might not sin against you.
John 1:1-11
New International Version (NIV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome[a] it.
6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.
John 12:32
New International Version (NIV)
Psalm 34:18-19
New International Version (NIV)
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
but the Lord delivers him from them all;
Luke 24:13-21
New International Version (NIV)
17 He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”
They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”
19 “What things?” he asked.
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.
Hebrews 1:11
New International Version (NIV)
they will all wear out like a garment
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Just a Breath
Today as I was doing my daily reading, I noticed a theme starting. I seem to be coming across things that remind me that our days are numbered. That we are but a breath in God's time line. What am I doing with my day, my life? That is the question. Am I in alignment with God or with the world and the things of it? A body out of alignment is more prone to health and mental issues, as well as pain and discomfort, and a lower quality of life.
Yesterday, I spent the afternoon caught up in planning out an educational map for each of my girls and for the rest of my children. This is good in the sense that it gives us an idea of what still needs to be achieved to reach their goals and to give me some perspective. At the same time, I can plan all I want, but plans change and get "thrown off". I could've spent the afternoon more wisely. Thankfully, God gave me a second chance last night. Normally after church, I get the kids in their pajamas and send them to bed, because I'm exhausted and want to go to bed too. Last night, my oldest stayed home sick. While I was gone she sent me messages over and over telling me she missed me and couldn't wait til we got home so she could snuggle with me. When we got home, I let the kids get a snack, and then it was pajama time. Instead of sending them off to their own beds, I gathered them in to mine and read 2 chapters of Anne of Green Gables to them. I don't read to them nearly as often as I should. I don't use my time wisely, very often. Too many days end with me wondering, "What did I do that was worth this day of my life?", "How did I impact my kids today?" Sometimes I feel in a rut or like I'm just going through the motions of the day, caught up and overwhelmed by my "to do" list, that I never actually get finished, that everything that really matters gets put on the back burner. I know this is extremely common. I wonder often, "What is the purpose behind what I'm teaching them, how I'm raising them, and the life that we live?"
I want this breath to matter, to be worth the time God gave it.
Yesterday, I spent the afternoon caught up in planning out an educational map for each of my girls and for the rest of my children. This is good in the sense that it gives us an idea of what still needs to be achieved to reach their goals and to give me some perspective. At the same time, I can plan all I want, but plans change and get "thrown off". I could've spent the afternoon more wisely. Thankfully, God gave me a second chance last night. Normally after church, I get the kids in their pajamas and send them to bed, because I'm exhausted and want to go to bed too. Last night, my oldest stayed home sick. While I was gone she sent me messages over and over telling me she missed me and couldn't wait til we got home so she could snuggle with me. When we got home, I let the kids get a snack, and then it was pajama time. Instead of sending them off to their own beds, I gathered them in to mine and read 2 chapters of Anne of Green Gables to them. I don't read to them nearly as often as I should. I don't use my time wisely, very often. Too many days end with me wondering, "What did I do that was worth this day of my life?", "How did I impact my kids today?" Sometimes I feel in a rut or like I'm just going through the motions of the day, caught up and overwhelmed by my "to do" list, that I never actually get finished, that everything that really matters gets put on the back burner. I know this is extremely common. I wonder often, "What is the purpose behind what I'm teaching them, how I'm raising them, and the life that we live?"
I want this breath to matter, to be worth the time God gave it.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Ecclesiastes
Last night I went to a small group bible study. We were discussing what we would be studying in the coming weeks and used the evening as an opportunity to share where each of us were in regards to the Holy Spirit, since that is what we will be studying. To get us started, the host of the study, for the night, shared the testimony of how he opened his heart to the Lord.
As we got further into discussion one of the men said that the book of Ecclesiastes was his favorite in the bible. He liked the down to earth wisdom in it. I know I've read the book Ecclesiastes before, but I couldn't remember what this book had to say. What made this such a great book? So this morning, after I finished my daily reading, I turned to Ecclesiastes and began to read. I'm on Chapter 5, now. Not that they are long chapters. As I read the first 4 chapters I realized what this man liked so much about this book. It is a good reminder that the things of this world will pass away. That, though it is good to be wise and live a righteous life, we all will die in the end. That life is full of good and bad and that until that day comes we need to remember to enjoy the life that God has given us. God wants us to live abundantly. He wants us to find pleasure in the gifts He has given us. To experience the rewards of the fruits of our labors. What are we striving for? What purpose are we fulfilling today? Who are we living for? Are we taking time to appreciate God's creation? Are we cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones, even if things around us are "out of whack"? Are we willing to take a leap of faith, step out, and do what our spirit is shouting within us to do? This is what life is about. It isn't about gain, glory, or fame. It isn't about meeting the expectations or demands of the world. It is about taking in the beauty of life all around us and in God. Allowing ourselves to love, enjoy, be loved, give, laugh, really live. Things are not life, experiences are. This world is not our home. Are living with a heart like Jesus or a heart stuck in the world?
This is what I've taken from Ecclesiastes so far today.
As we got further into discussion one of the men said that the book of Ecclesiastes was his favorite in the bible. He liked the down to earth wisdom in it. I know I've read the book Ecclesiastes before, but I couldn't remember what this book had to say. What made this such a great book? So this morning, after I finished my daily reading, I turned to Ecclesiastes and began to read. I'm on Chapter 5, now. Not that they are long chapters. As I read the first 4 chapters I realized what this man liked so much about this book. It is a good reminder that the things of this world will pass away. That, though it is good to be wise and live a righteous life, we all will die in the end. That life is full of good and bad and that until that day comes we need to remember to enjoy the life that God has given us. God wants us to live abundantly. He wants us to find pleasure in the gifts He has given us. To experience the rewards of the fruits of our labors. What are we striving for? What purpose are we fulfilling today? Who are we living for? Are we taking time to appreciate God's creation? Are we cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones, even if things around us are "out of whack"? Are we willing to take a leap of faith, step out, and do what our spirit is shouting within us to do? This is what life is about. It isn't about gain, glory, or fame. It isn't about meeting the expectations or demands of the world. It is about taking in the beauty of life all around us and in God. Allowing ourselves to love, enjoy, be loved, give, laugh, really live. Things are not life, experiences are. This world is not our home. Are living with a heart like Jesus or a heart stuck in the world?
This is what I've taken from Ecclesiastes so far today.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Lent
Tomorrow is the start of Lent. I don't know much about Lent, I'll be honest, even though it is only a Google search away. What I have gathered from friends, and even some family, is that it is a 40 day fasting ritual.
Now normally, I don't keep track of Lent, however my daughters' friend is Catholic and is participating. She has chosen to give up fried foods for the 40 days and told my girls it was to remind us of how Jesus gave up His body on the cross. This is important to me. One, it is a good learning opportunity for my girls and two, I want to make sure I don't make fried food when their friend is eating with us.
My oldest daughter has decided she wants to participate by giving up eating potato chips. I've told her to pray about it. Though we are not Catholic, Lutheran, or any denomination really and don't see Lent as a requirement or expectation, I also don't see the harm in learning to let go of something that isn't good for you. To me the 40 days (and maybe this is the meaning) is a reminder of how Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. The point of fasting is to spend the time, we would spend eating, in communion with God instead. This would be through prayer, reading the bible, worship, acts of service, etc. Fasting is a way of focusing on feeding and strengthening our spirits. Lent seems to be a time to re-evaluate the health of our spirits and to remove things from our lives that have come between us and God, whether it be food, technology, or whatever. That's why I want my daughter to pray about it. Lent, at least from my perspective, shouldn't be something you do because your friend is, you feel obligated or required to do it, or because you just always have. It should be something you do between you and God. It should be something you choose prayerfully, seeking God on what it is that is coming between you and Him the most. I hope that, if she does participate that she does it for the right reasons and that she allows herself to be truly open to God moving in her spirit and changing her life.
I explained all this to her and also explained to her that she can't expect her sister to do it, just because she and their friend are. That if she chooses to or not, it is between her and God. If she does choose to, what she chooses to do, is between her and God. At this time, my younger daughter doesn't plan to, because she thinks it is boring. She is 9 and it isn't something we've really ever talked about. The last thing I explained to my oldest was that we don't have to give up things for Lent. We can give up things for God any day. She considered giving up cookies, but because Lent starts tomorrow and Valentine's Day is the next day, she decided that might not be a good idea. The only thing she felt ready to give up, temporarily, was potato chips.
As for me, what would I give up? I don't think I'd give up anything. I don't like the idea of giving something up, though I know Jesus gave up the Ghost. I prefer to think of it as letting something go. It sounds more positive, like an act of love not obligation. But that's just one of those weird things about me. I'd like to try letting go of all processed foods. There are just so many benefits to doing so, including facing the gluttony issue straight on and giving God more room to help us overcome that sin in our lives.
Now normally, I don't keep track of Lent, however my daughters' friend is Catholic and is participating. She has chosen to give up fried foods for the 40 days and told my girls it was to remind us of how Jesus gave up His body on the cross. This is important to me. One, it is a good learning opportunity for my girls and two, I want to make sure I don't make fried food when their friend is eating with us.
My oldest daughter has decided she wants to participate by giving up eating potato chips. I've told her to pray about it. Though we are not Catholic, Lutheran, or any denomination really and don't see Lent as a requirement or expectation, I also don't see the harm in learning to let go of something that isn't good for you. To me the 40 days (and maybe this is the meaning) is a reminder of how Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. The point of fasting is to spend the time, we would spend eating, in communion with God instead. This would be through prayer, reading the bible, worship, acts of service, etc. Fasting is a way of focusing on feeding and strengthening our spirits. Lent seems to be a time to re-evaluate the health of our spirits and to remove things from our lives that have come between us and God, whether it be food, technology, or whatever. That's why I want my daughter to pray about it. Lent, at least from my perspective, shouldn't be something you do because your friend is, you feel obligated or required to do it, or because you just always have. It should be something you do between you and God. It should be something you choose prayerfully, seeking God on what it is that is coming between you and Him the most. I hope that, if she does participate that she does it for the right reasons and that she allows herself to be truly open to God moving in her spirit and changing her life.
I explained all this to her and also explained to her that she can't expect her sister to do it, just because she and their friend are. That if she chooses to or not, it is between her and God. If she does choose to, what she chooses to do, is between her and God. At this time, my younger daughter doesn't plan to, because she thinks it is boring. She is 9 and it isn't something we've really ever talked about. The last thing I explained to my oldest was that we don't have to give up things for Lent. We can give up things for God any day. She considered giving up cookies, but because Lent starts tomorrow and Valentine's Day is the next day, she decided that might not be a good idea. The only thing she felt ready to give up, temporarily, was potato chips.
As for me, what would I give up? I don't think I'd give up anything. I don't like the idea of giving something up, though I know Jesus gave up the Ghost. I prefer to think of it as letting something go. It sounds more positive, like an act of love not obligation. But that's just one of those weird things about me. I'd like to try letting go of all processed foods. There are just so many benefits to doing so, including facing the gluttony issue straight on and giving God more room to help us overcome that sin in our lives.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Feb 10, Morning Notes
Sunday morning we had a guest speaker at my church. His topic was, "What Does True Greatness Look Like"
He shared excerpts from a book by Gene Edwards, "A Tale of Three Kings" along with scriptures from the Bible. One of the three kings is king David.
David, faults and all, has always been one of my favorite historical figures. To be known as "a man after God's own heart" is quite a way to be known. I've always considered him a kindred spirit, with his love for music, his emotional struggles, and especially his hunger for God. A hunger that I hope I have as well. But why was David known as a man after God's own heart? What made him so truly great?
It wasn't because David took down Goliath or because he became king. It was because David was willing to be broken and humbled. The bible tells us that "the least will be greatest and the low will be lifted high." David spent much time alone with God, just as Jesus himself did. He guarded who and what he listened to, accepted help from the people around him, and listened and followed the direction of God. He leaned on God for strength, for everything really.
In order for us to be truly great, there are things we need to remember.
True greatness starts in solitude. Spending unrushed time alone with God. Where you can truly listen to Him and receive His guidance and wise council. You see this with all of the great prophets. It comes from being faithful in the small things that God gives us. Like the parable of the 3 men and the talents. (Matt 25:14-30, Luke 19:12-28) It comes from a willingness to step outside of our comfort zone, be challenged and sometimes stepping away from our logical human perspective, accepting that God doesn't always work in ways that make sense to man. Allowing ourselves to be lead by humility instead of pride, helping those in need even when we think it is inconvenient, and receiving help from our loved ones even when we think we can do it on our own. True greatness comes from putting aside our human nature of being led by our emotions and living by the standards of this world and instead grabbing a hold of God's nature and standards. Remembering that we are not our own, but God's. We live this life, not for the whole world to see, but for an audience of one. God. Our focus should not be on pleasing the world but on pleasing him.
Surprisingly, to some, we do please God more often than we know. Like a parent finds pleasure in the smallest of their child's achievements, God does as well. It's what you do with those unplanned, unexpected moments. The smile you gave to the new person at whatever place you were. The penny you put in the donation jar for a charity that touches your heart. The fact that you got up this morning even when you wanted to stay in bed curled up until next weekend, month, year, or lifetime.
Yesterday I had a moment of knowing that I had pleased God. I sang at church yesterday, which meant I had to get there earlier than when I don't sing, for our practice. I had told my husband the night before that I wanted him to bring our kids and even stay so he could join us on a trip to the fire station afterwards. I got up, and was trying to figure out what to do. In my heart I kept thinking I should talk to him and make sure he was going to do what I wanted. I didn't want to do that. When I heard in my heart that I should start by getting my boys' clothes ready and get dressed myself, I decided that would be a good start. By the time I finished that, the urge inside of me won out against my own desire. I went and sat at the edge of our bed and asked my husband if he was going to do what I wanted him to do. I didn't want to do this, because I knew in my heart his answer already. I knew I couldn't count on him to bring the kids, which would ruin the field trip a friend of mine had planned. My husband doesn't go to church and doesn't like when he has to bring the kids for me. I asked him anyway and he confirmed that he wasn't going to do it. So I woke up my girls and then my boys. Everyone got ready and ate. Amazingly, we left on time, which we normally don't, and ended up arriving just a little early. It was one of the most peaceful mornings we've had in a long time. The rest of the day turned out pretty nice and peaceful as well. I know it was because of the obedience I chose, even though it wasn't what I had wanted.
One of my favorite things, the pastor quoted was "I am your shepherd and God is mine." What a great motto as a parent.
He shared excerpts from a book by Gene Edwards, "A Tale of Three Kings" along with scriptures from the Bible. One of the three kings is king David.
David, faults and all, has always been one of my favorite historical figures. To be known as "a man after God's own heart" is quite a way to be known. I've always considered him a kindred spirit, with his love for music, his emotional struggles, and especially his hunger for God. A hunger that I hope I have as well. But why was David known as a man after God's own heart? What made him so truly great?
It wasn't because David took down Goliath or because he became king. It was because David was willing to be broken and humbled. The bible tells us that "the least will be greatest and the low will be lifted high." David spent much time alone with God, just as Jesus himself did. He guarded who and what he listened to, accepted help from the people around him, and listened and followed the direction of God. He leaned on God for strength, for everything really.
In order for us to be truly great, there are things we need to remember.
True greatness starts in solitude. Spending unrushed time alone with God. Where you can truly listen to Him and receive His guidance and wise council. You see this with all of the great prophets. It comes from being faithful in the small things that God gives us. Like the parable of the 3 men and the talents. (Matt 25:14-30, Luke 19:12-28) It comes from a willingness to step outside of our comfort zone, be challenged and sometimes stepping away from our logical human perspective, accepting that God doesn't always work in ways that make sense to man. Allowing ourselves to be lead by humility instead of pride, helping those in need even when we think it is inconvenient, and receiving help from our loved ones even when we think we can do it on our own. True greatness comes from putting aside our human nature of being led by our emotions and living by the standards of this world and instead grabbing a hold of God's nature and standards. Remembering that we are not our own, but God's. We live this life, not for the whole world to see, but for an audience of one. God. Our focus should not be on pleasing the world but on pleasing him.
Surprisingly, to some, we do please God more often than we know. Like a parent finds pleasure in the smallest of their child's achievements, God does as well. It's what you do with those unplanned, unexpected moments. The smile you gave to the new person at whatever place you were. The penny you put in the donation jar for a charity that touches your heart. The fact that you got up this morning even when you wanted to stay in bed curled up until next weekend, month, year, or lifetime.
Yesterday I had a moment of knowing that I had pleased God. I sang at church yesterday, which meant I had to get there earlier than when I don't sing, for our practice. I had told my husband the night before that I wanted him to bring our kids and even stay so he could join us on a trip to the fire station afterwards. I got up, and was trying to figure out what to do. In my heart I kept thinking I should talk to him and make sure he was going to do what I wanted. I didn't want to do that. When I heard in my heart that I should start by getting my boys' clothes ready and get dressed myself, I decided that would be a good start. By the time I finished that, the urge inside of me won out against my own desire. I went and sat at the edge of our bed and asked my husband if he was going to do what I wanted him to do. I didn't want to do this, because I knew in my heart his answer already. I knew I couldn't count on him to bring the kids, which would ruin the field trip a friend of mine had planned. My husband doesn't go to church and doesn't like when he has to bring the kids for me. I asked him anyway and he confirmed that he wasn't going to do it. So I woke up my girls and then my boys. Everyone got ready and ate. Amazingly, we left on time, which we normally don't, and ended up arriving just a little early. It was one of the most peaceful mornings we've had in a long time. The rest of the day turned out pretty nice and peaceful as well. I know it was because of the obedience I chose, even though it wasn't what I had wanted.
One of my favorite things, the pastor quoted was "I am your shepherd and God is mine." What a great motto as a parent.
Friday, February 8, 2013
God's Will Be Done
In 2008 my husband separated from the air force. As he prepared to do
so he applied to the FAA. He looked at his options of places to go and I
remember him bringing up going to Detroit. He felt that it was a
possibly good idea. I remember being so adamantly against this idea. I
thought it was horrible and dangerous and crazy! Plus, I wanted him to
apply out west, so I could be close to my family for the first time
since he'd joined the air force. Instead, he applied to Kentucky, with
the hopes of getting a job in Cincinnati. It would've been a very easy
move since we were in Dayton at the time. He had a friend who worked in
Cincinnati and had checked out the facility and felt he had a good
chance of going there. Instead, he got Lexington. He decided right away,
that he would be applying else where in 3 years, when he was able to.
So for the next 3 years, God blessed us where we were. But where were
we?
The other night, while driving to church, my girls and I were talking about how, on Sunday, our pastor told a story about how his wife hadn't wanted to move out here either. It made us laugh because, that's how I was. But his wife prayed about it and God opened her heart, because this is where He wanted them to be. I on the other hand did not pray about it, when my husband brought up the idea. Was it possible that we had not been where He truly wanted us to be?
Fast forward to 2010 and my husband began looking at job openings, to transfer. Detroit was open and so was Boise, Idaho. I had been all about moving back to the Boise area or to Portland ever since we had moved away, 10 years before, unless of course my husband wanted to go overseas. My husband applied to both. Boise for me and Detroit, because really it was a better career choice for him. I still, very desperately wanted to move closer to "home" and to my family, because I hardly ever see them. However, this time, I began to pray wholeheartedly. I prayed for God's will, above mine and my husband's, be done. I prayed that He would bring us to the same conclusion and on to the same page. I prayed for Him to open our hearts to whatever direction He wanted us to go in and to soften our hearts. Lexington wasn't ready to let him go for another year, but sometimes it takes a while to line up a transfer, which is why my husband started looking and applying when he did. Boise was interested in him, but they didn't want to wait that long for him. Detroit on the other hand was more than happy to wait for his skills and talents. In 2011, God shut the door on Boise and opened wide the door to Detroit. Everything fell into place for us, although the house was a last minute thing that had us a little worried.
The interesting thing to me, when my daughters and I were talking, were some of the details. The house we live in now was a foreclosure back in 2008, which means, the possibility stands that, we still could've had this house. And thinking about it, if my husband had gotten a job in Detroit back in 2008, we'd have quite a bit less debt than we do now. As I thought about these things and how some of the things God blessed us with when we did, eventually, come to this area, He could've blessed us with sooner, had I had a more prayerful and open heart. Does that mean He would've? Not necessarily. But what if God had wanted us here back then, and instead we ended up on a detour because my heart was so closed to His will and direction? God blessed us abundantly when we were in Kentucky, and I'm thankful for our time there. It was just interesting to me to think, that like the Israelites who ended up wandering the wilderness for 40 years before entering the promised land, I too took a detour. I took the longer road, to get to where God was trying to put me, because of my disobedience and lack of faith and trust in God and His plans. I shared this thought with my daughters along with the reminder to "pray about everything!"
I can't change the past or the choices I've made, but I'm thankful that God has touched my heart, grown me, and changed me in the ways the He has.
The other night, while driving to church, my girls and I were talking about how, on Sunday, our pastor told a story about how his wife hadn't wanted to move out here either. It made us laugh because, that's how I was. But his wife prayed about it and God opened her heart, because this is where He wanted them to be. I on the other hand did not pray about it, when my husband brought up the idea. Was it possible that we had not been where He truly wanted us to be?
Fast forward to 2010 and my husband began looking at job openings, to transfer. Detroit was open and so was Boise, Idaho. I had been all about moving back to the Boise area or to Portland ever since we had moved away, 10 years before, unless of course my husband wanted to go overseas. My husband applied to both. Boise for me and Detroit, because really it was a better career choice for him. I still, very desperately wanted to move closer to "home" and to my family, because I hardly ever see them. However, this time, I began to pray wholeheartedly. I prayed for God's will, above mine and my husband's, be done. I prayed that He would bring us to the same conclusion and on to the same page. I prayed for Him to open our hearts to whatever direction He wanted us to go in and to soften our hearts. Lexington wasn't ready to let him go for another year, but sometimes it takes a while to line up a transfer, which is why my husband started looking and applying when he did. Boise was interested in him, but they didn't want to wait that long for him. Detroit on the other hand was more than happy to wait for his skills and talents. In 2011, God shut the door on Boise and opened wide the door to Detroit. Everything fell into place for us, although the house was a last minute thing that had us a little worried.
The interesting thing to me, when my daughters and I were talking, were some of the details. The house we live in now was a foreclosure back in 2008, which means, the possibility stands that, we still could've had this house. And thinking about it, if my husband had gotten a job in Detroit back in 2008, we'd have quite a bit less debt than we do now. As I thought about these things and how some of the things God blessed us with when we did, eventually, come to this area, He could've blessed us with sooner, had I had a more prayerful and open heart. Does that mean He would've? Not necessarily. But what if God had wanted us here back then, and instead we ended up on a detour because my heart was so closed to His will and direction? God blessed us abundantly when we were in Kentucky, and I'm thankful for our time there. It was just interesting to me to think, that like the Israelites who ended up wandering the wilderness for 40 years before entering the promised land, I too took a detour. I took the longer road, to get to where God was trying to put me, because of my disobedience and lack of faith and trust in God and His plans. I shared this thought with my daughters along with the reminder to "pray about everything!"
I can't change the past or the choices I've made, but I'm thankful that God has touched my heart, grown me, and changed me in the ways the He has.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Pregnant Ponderings
Today as I spent some quiet time with God and my unborn baby, I thought about how, today I am calculated to be 31 weeks along. That means in 5 weeks my midwives will be comfortable with me birthing at home. It also means that I could easily have 10 weeks left til this baby arrives, considering both my sons were 41 weeks gestated when they decided to arrive Earthside. I'd really like baby not to wait that long, though I know people who've gone longer. At the same time, I'd prefer, for their sake, that they wait a little longer than 5 weeks. As I thought about this I began to think about how little I control all of this. I know with modern technology and mainstream living you can pick the day, even the hour, for your baby to arrive. I on the other hand have decided to go old school with a midwife, a homebirth (my 3rd.), and as few modern "luxuries" as possible. I do not know the day nor the hour in which my baby will be brought forth into my arms. Only God does. Kind of like God is the only one who knows the day, the hour, in which He will send His son to take us up into His arms. So many things point to God, at least for me and I am left amazed. This may seem like a simple, "Duh" kind of thing, but at the same time, I believe God uses simple, "Duh" stuff to remind us of His glory.
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