Hi Blogger pals,
Hope you having a great Sunday! Thank you for your uplifting comments. Here is the thing, I love food. I know that is a pretty random way to begin a post, but stick with me. I know we all in a sense love food because we never want to be hungry, but God created us each with a diffrent sense of taste. For example, I love Mexican food sea food, and I have a massive sweet tooth. I however hate most foods with slimy textures, like watermelon. Sorry to all who love watermelon. In Psalm 34: verse 8 says "Taste and see the Lord is good! If we have been brought from death to life, then we have seen and tasted the goodness of the Lord. Like our taste buds we may see God's goodness in many different ways, but we have been blessed by His goodness!!!
I started writing this post last night, but didn't get to finish. I have so much richness to share with you blogger friends, but I must wait... I'll try to catch up on your posts soon! Thanks for being so paitent with me. Hope to post soon! Blessings!
The Blogger Herself
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Just a quickie Friday post!
Hi,
By the time I finished reading and posting on other folks blogs, it has left me with only 7 minutes to post on my own blog, before my caregiver arrives to help me get in bed. I'll post a real post, hopefully, before the weekend is out Lord willing as my friend Dee often writes on her blog. Have a great weekend Bloggers!
By the time I finished reading and posting on other folks blogs, it has left me with only 7 minutes to post on my own blog, before my caregiver arrives to help me get in bed. I'll post a real post, hopefully, before the weekend is out Lord willing as my friend Dee often writes on her blog. Have a great weekend Bloggers!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Everything stops for one!
Hi bloggers:
Hope this post finds you doing well, and that you haven't given up on me. I haven't talked to you guys much about my volunteering with Chattanooga's local pregnancy Center AAA Women's Services. http://www.aaawomen.org/ Last week was Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, or SOHLS, and so I was busy trying to get things done for Baby Bottle Blessings which is a campaign to raise money for local Pregnancy Centers through churches and other support. Our Mission, in obedience to Christ, is to provide Life Affirming Alternatives to unplanned pregnancies. If you would like to know more about AAA's Services just ask, or to find your local pregnancy Center, you can vist http://www.optionline.org/ I hope you will find out how you can help. Thank you! The Bible tells us that God knows us before we are even born. (See Jer. 1:5 Ps. 139-13-17 God knows the very number of hairs on each one of us. He took the time to make of us in the womb, to make us each special and one of a kind creation. He wanted each one of us, and his heart delights in each life personally. Is that as overwhelming for you, as it is for me?
Today I read Mark 10:46-52 http://www.bibleresources.org/ They came to Jericho. ) And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (the son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was sitting by the road. ) 47 When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, ) he began to cry out, "Son of David, ) Jesus, have mercy on me!" ) 48 Many people told him to keep quiet, but he was crying out all the more, "Have mercy on me, ) Son of David!"
49 Jesus stopped and said, "Call him."
So they called the blind man and said to him, "Have courage! Get up; He's calling for you." 50 He threw off his coat, () jumped up, and came to Jesus.
51 Then Jesus answered him, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
"Rabbouni," the blind man told Him, "I want to see!"
52 "Go your way," Jesus told him. "Your faith has healed you." Immediately he could see and began to follow Him on the road. It warms my heart to think of Jesus stopped and take time for this one man. He could have made excuses or given many justifiable reasons for passing this man by, but he did not. He stopped! In our culture, we don't stop much, Jesus was not doubt busy, but he was not too busy to invest in the life of one who requested his help. The man asked Jesus to have mercy him, and then he shared his heart's desire for that mercy, to be reflected in his having physical sight. Jesus honored the man's request, because he had enough faith to ask for Jesus for mercy, even when onlookers deemed him and his need as unimportant to Jesus. Our lives and our needs are important to Jesus. He will stop when others pass you by. When he stops on our behalf, our response ought to be following him wherever he leads. Jesus is not too busy to care about us! He is not too busy to care about you! Am I, are we too busy to stop and invest in the life of someone the way Jesus did? Are we too busy to follow Jesus?
I've really missed posting, and reading your blogs. I am thankful you are still faithful to read. Please pray for me, the Lord has directed me to lead Women's Day @ my church, on March 7th, but he hasn't given me his message to share yet. -T.J.
Hope this post finds you doing well, and that you haven't given up on me. I haven't talked to you guys much about my volunteering with Chattanooga's local pregnancy Center AAA Women's Services. http://www.aaawomen.org/ Last week was Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, or SOHLS, and so I was busy trying to get things done for Baby Bottle Blessings which is a campaign to raise money for local Pregnancy Centers through churches and other support. Our Mission, in obedience to Christ, is to provide Life Affirming Alternatives to unplanned pregnancies. If you would like to know more about AAA's Services just ask, or to find your local pregnancy Center, you can vist http://www.optionline.org/ I hope you will find out how you can help. Thank you! The Bible tells us that God knows us before we are even born. (See Jer. 1:5 Ps. 139-13-17 God knows the very number of hairs on each one of us. He took the time to make of us in the womb, to make us each special and one of a kind creation. He wanted each one of us, and his heart delights in each life personally. Is that as overwhelming for you, as it is for me?
Today I read Mark 10:46-52 http://www.bibleresources.org/ They came to Jericho. ) And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (the son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was sitting by the road. ) 47 When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, ) he began to cry out, "Son of David, ) Jesus, have mercy on me!" ) 48 Many people told him to keep quiet, but he was crying out all the more, "Have mercy on me, ) Son of David!"
49 Jesus stopped and said, "Call him."
So they called the blind man and said to him, "Have courage! Get up; He's calling for you." 50 He threw off his coat, () jumped up, and came to Jesus.
51 Then Jesus answered him, "What do you want Me to do for you?"
"Rabbouni," the blind man told Him, "I want to see!"
52 "Go your way," Jesus told him. "Your faith has healed you." Immediately he could see and began to follow Him on the road. It warms my heart to think of Jesus stopped and take time for this one man. He could have made excuses or given many justifiable reasons for passing this man by, but he did not. He stopped! In our culture, we don't stop much, Jesus was not doubt busy, but he was not too busy to invest in the life of one who requested his help. The man asked Jesus to have mercy him, and then he shared his heart's desire for that mercy, to be reflected in his having physical sight. Jesus honored the man's request, because he had enough faith to ask for Jesus for mercy, even when onlookers deemed him and his need as unimportant to Jesus. Our lives and our needs are important to Jesus. He will stop when others pass you by. When he stops on our behalf, our response ought to be following him wherever he leads. Jesus is not too busy to care about us! He is not too busy to care about you! Am I, are we too busy to stop and invest in the life of someone the way Jesus did? Are we too busy to follow Jesus?
I've really missed posting, and reading your blogs. I am thankful you are still faithful to read. Please pray for me, the Lord has directed me to lead Women's Day @ my church, on March 7th, but he hasn't given me his message to share yet. -T.J.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
By Rick Warren!
First, sorry I don't have long.... I am headed out I just wanted to post this email I got by Rick Warren! Dee I'm glad you are getting to know Jenn! She's my best friend post to her here any time! Jenn I love you... Thank you for the ecard and e-mail!
By: Rick Warren Summary of PDL:
(REMEMBER HE WROTE "PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE")
You will enjoy the new insights that Rick Warren has, with his wife now having cancer and him having "wealth" from the book sales. This is an absolutely incredible short interview with Rick Warren,In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said:People ask me, What is the purpose of life? And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body but not the end of me.I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.We were mad e by G od and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.Life is a series of probl ems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.This past yea r has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and some thing b ad in your life.No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems.If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness,"which is my problem, my issues, my pain." But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her.It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to H im and to people.You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.Actually, sometimes learni ng to de al with the good is harder. For instanc e, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases.Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poo r, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 yea rs sin ce I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better. God didn't put me20on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.Painful moments, TRUST GOD.Every moment, THANK GOD.
By: Rick Warren Summary of PDL:
(REMEMBER HE WROTE "PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE")
You will enjoy the new insights that Rick Warren has, with his wife now having cancer and him having "wealth" from the book sales. This is an absolutely incredible short interview with Rick Warren,In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said:People ask me, What is the purpose of life? And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body but not the end of me.I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.We were mad e by G od and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.Life is a series of probl ems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.This past yea r has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and some thing b ad in your life.No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems.If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness,"which is my problem, my issues, my pain." But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her.It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to H im and to people.You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.Actually, sometimes learni ng to de al with the good is harder. For instanc e, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases.Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poo r, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 yea rs sin ce I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better. God didn't put me20on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.Painful moments, TRUST GOD.Every moment, THANK GOD.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
short but sweet!
Hi Bloggers:
Sorry I haven't been good about blogging lately. I've have had some blogger block. Some sickness so I've been away. I wish I had something really Spiritual to write. I hate to blog when I have no direction or clear pattern to my post. I do want to share some great news though. My Mom is begining 2009 Cancer free!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Will you rejoice with me?! Thank you for your prayers for with God all things are possible!
Sorry I haven't been good about blogging lately. I've have had some blogger block. Some sickness so I've been away. I wish I had something really Spiritual to write. I hate to blog when I have no direction or clear pattern to my post. I do want to share some great news though. My Mom is begining 2009 Cancer free!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Will you rejoice with me?! Thank you for your prayers for with God all things are possible!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Photos of our Christmas!
Brother's new puppy... Christmas eve present!
Me Christmas Eve!
Jocelyn's mom holding Macee
Brady's mom & Dad playing the New Wii. Brady's mon about 5 months pregnant. This is what a real mariage is made of. (see above)
My mom & Macee
My brother and his brand new puppy he got Christmas Eve! Her name is Macee
Above 3 yr. old cousin Jocelyn playing on my Aunt's porch.
My two year old cousin Brady Above. Below his dad is hooking up his new Wii(the dad's new Wii and my grandmother "Mumzie" is in the picture too.
This was Christmas day at my Aunt's in the afternoon before our meal.Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Big Picture Christmas!
Merry Christmas Bloggers!!!!!!!!!
Hope you guys have a terrific time as you celebrate the Birthday of your Savior!! I recomend to you if you have a chance to read the book The Purpose of Christmas by Rick Warren I think it will greatly enrich the way you celebrate this season. Also, Casting Crowns has a wonderful new Christmas album called "Peace On Earth."
Do you wonder what it would be like to celebrate Christmas year round? No, hear me out, I don't mean buying Christmas presents every day, we would all be without a penny in our wallet. Nor do I mean we should keep stockings on the mantle or eat food that make our sides pop out. I'm not talking about keeping age old traditions all year long. What I'm writing about is a big picture Christmas! I love this time of year, but I'm learning that celebrating the Savior is not really a season of the year, but for those of us who are redeemed by Christ, our big picture Christmas is ever lasting. I know this idea has occurred to others, but I admit that it has really hit me this year. For some, Christmas is only something that gives warm and fuzzes in December, but as Christians the hope of Christmas is Christ, and that hope is ours forever! We can have a big picture Christmas. There are so many lessons provided for us in the Biblical account of Christmas that I can never seem to just focus on one part of it. I am glad our hope does not end with Jesus in a manger or even Jesus on a cross, I rejoice that the tomb is empty, and the reality of Christmas is forever! http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=Matthew+1&version1=49 16Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, (I)who is called the Messiah.
17So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; from David to the (J)deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the (K)deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
Conception and Birth of Jesus
18Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His (L)mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was (M)found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.
19And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned [c](N)to send her away secretly.
20But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "(O)Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been [d]conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
21"She will bear a Son; and (P)you shall call His name Jesus, for He (Q)will save His people from their sins."
22Now all this took place to fulfill what was (R)spoken by the Lord through the prophet:
23"(S)BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH (T)CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "(U)GOD WITH US."
24And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife,
25[e]but kept her a virgin until she (V)gave birth to a Son; and (W)he called His name Jesus."MT. 1:16-25 God is with us! I wonder how many people in the world know that Jesus is the reason for not just for the season, but for All Hope?! Am I prepared to share that Jesus is the reason for the for the hope I have?
Just wondering what are some of your Christmas traditions? Do you find that they enrich or hinder you from focusing on Jesus? We are having 18+ people at our house tonight for dinner and gifts. I always try to remember that the presents I get, are a symbol of the greatest gift I already have! Merry Christmas!!
Hope you guys have a terrific time as you celebrate the Birthday of your Savior!! I recomend to you if you have a chance to read the book The Purpose of Christmas by Rick Warren I think it will greatly enrich the way you celebrate this season. Also, Casting Crowns has a wonderful new Christmas album called "Peace On Earth."
Do you wonder what it would be like to celebrate Christmas year round? No, hear me out, I don't mean buying Christmas presents every day, we would all be without a penny in our wallet. Nor do I mean we should keep stockings on the mantle or eat food that make our sides pop out. I'm not talking about keeping age old traditions all year long. What I'm writing about is a big picture Christmas! I love this time of year, but I'm learning that celebrating the Savior is not really a season of the year, but for those of us who are redeemed by Christ, our big picture Christmas is ever lasting. I know this idea has occurred to others, but I admit that it has really hit me this year. For some, Christmas is only something that gives warm and fuzzes in December, but as Christians the hope of Christmas is Christ, and that hope is ours forever! We can have a big picture Christmas. There are so many lessons provided for us in the Biblical account of Christmas that I can never seem to just focus on one part of it. I am glad our hope does not end with Jesus in a manger or even Jesus on a cross, I rejoice that the tomb is empty, and the reality of Christmas is forever! http://bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearchresults.php?passage1=Matthew+1&version1=49 16Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was born, (I)who is called the Messiah.
17So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; from David to the (J)deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the (K)deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations.
Conception and Birth of Jesus
18Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His (L)mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was (M)found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.
19And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned [c](N)to send her away secretly.
20But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "(O)Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been [d]conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
21"She will bear a Son; and (P)you shall call His name Jesus, for He (Q)will save His people from their sins."
22Now all this took place to fulfill what was (R)spoken by the Lord through the prophet:
23"(S)BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH (T)CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which translated means, "(U)GOD WITH US."
24And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife,
25[e]but kept her a virgin until she (V)gave birth to a Son; and (W)he called His name Jesus."MT. 1:16-25 God is with us! I wonder how many people in the world know that Jesus is the reason for not just for the season, but for All Hope?! Am I prepared to share that Jesus is the reason for the for the hope I have?
Just wondering what are some of your Christmas traditions? Do you find that they enrich or hinder you from focusing on Jesus? We are having 18+ people at our house tonight for dinner and gifts. I always try to remember that the presents I get, are a symbol of the greatest gift I already have! Merry Christmas!!
Friday, December 19, 2008
I love this one... Can you believe he can already roll over???
I think he has learned my "pouty Lip look I'm famous for!
Alex likes to play with his feet
Christmas with my good friend Michelle and my Buddy her4 month old son Alex(Munchkin) He kept giggling at me until we start taking pictures. His Mommy did his Nursery in gingerbread, so that is what I gave him for Christmas! Like my Butterfly christmas tree? Hope you enjoy the pics Jenn! Michelle and Alex send their love to you. Michelle is out of cell minutes, but she miss you and loves you!Thursday, December 18, 2008
Learning to say No to fear!
Hi Loyal Readers:
I hope this post finds you doing well. I only have a few minutes to post my caregiver will be here in a few minutes, but I wanted to tell you something God showed me today, that I need to rely upon his grace to learn. 365 times in the word of God, it says in one form or another "fear Not!" I read many verses that said this very thing. I am a very fearful person in general, in fact I have a history of panic attacks. I am finding that a lot of my fear if I am really stems from a lack of trust in God. Yes, my personality naturally makes me prone to fear, but often times my fear is a spiritual issue. God knew as limited human beings we would be prone to fear, but he also knew real confidence in him, is the primary key to freedom from fear! God is bigger than fear! Wow! People in Biblical times were told not to fear, and more times than not God's word was enough to encourage them to move beyond there fear! The Bible tells us the same thing, and his word is just as true now, as it was in the time of Joseph and Mary or King David and so many others. I don't believe God punishes us when are fearful, but I do believe fear uncontrolled can lead us to sin, in fact, I personally know it has caused me to sin. I am glad God is merciful as I fail so often to trust him in so many ways. What comfort in knowing that God's perfect love can cast out our fear!
More soon.... I am still contemplating the best way to do PDL entries.
I hope this post finds you doing well. I only have a few minutes to post my caregiver will be here in a few minutes, but I wanted to tell you something God showed me today, that I need to rely upon his grace to learn. 365 times in the word of God, it says in one form or another "fear Not!" I read many verses that said this very thing. I am a very fearful person in general, in fact I have a history of panic attacks. I am finding that a lot of my fear if I am really stems from a lack of trust in God. Yes, my personality naturally makes me prone to fear, but often times my fear is a spiritual issue. God knew as limited human beings we would be prone to fear, but he also knew real confidence in him, is the primary key to freedom from fear! God is bigger than fear! Wow! People in Biblical times were told not to fear, and more times than not God's word was enough to encourage them to move beyond there fear! The Bible tells us the same thing, and his word is just as true now, as it was in the time of Joseph and Mary or King David and so many others. I don't believe God punishes us when are fearful, but I do believe fear uncontrolled can lead us to sin, in fact, I personally know it has caused me to sin. I am glad God is merciful as I fail so often to trust him in so many ways. What comfort in knowing that God's perfect love can cast out our fear!
More soon.... I am still contemplating the best way to do PDL entries.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Two weeks away!
Hello,
Thanks for your comments on my blog on my poem. I'm thankful if it blessed you! I have been rather dry on the writing front since then. I have missed you all though. I've been a little afraid to write in the last two weeks, because I've had some icky stuff inside me, and I didn't want that outlook to spill over in my posting. I've been a bit inward, and self foucused. I am hopefully back now, but have no clear vision of what to write about. I do wish to remind you and myself though, that if you are Christian, you've been given the greatest gift ever, God's Son!
My Mom's birthday is tomorrow. I cannot tell you how blessed I am to have her. I love her so much. I cannot believe how much I have taken her for granted over the years. Please contiue to pray for her, as she is still bouncing back to health. Her caringbridge page is: www.caringbridge.org/visitmadelineellis Thanks for stopping by, I'll try to have a more well thought out post next time. Thanks for sticking with me. To my best friend Jenn currently living in Southeast Asia, I love you girl!
Thanks for your comments on my blog on my poem. I'm thankful if it blessed you! I have been rather dry on the writing front since then. I have missed you all though. I've been a little afraid to write in the last two weeks, because I've had some icky stuff inside me, and I didn't want that outlook to spill over in my posting. I've been a bit inward, and self foucused. I am hopefully back now, but have no clear vision of what to write about. I do wish to remind you and myself though, that if you are Christian, you've been given the greatest gift ever, God's Son!
My Mom's birthday is tomorrow. I cannot tell you how blessed I am to have her. I love her so much. I cannot believe how much I have taken her for granted over the years. Please contiue to pray for her, as she is still bouncing back to health. Her caringbridge page is: www.caringbridge.org/visitmadelineellis Thanks for stopping by, I'll try to have a more well thought out post next time. Thanks for sticking with me. To my best friend Jenn currently living in Southeast Asia, I love you girl!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
I Must! Thanksgiving Part II
Please ask permission if you wish to use this in part or in whole. Thank you!
I Must
T.J. Ellis
November 27, 2008
I must tell of your marvelous beauty
I must sing of your greatness
I must praise your awesome name!
I must proclaim how wonderful you are!
I must declare that You are eternal
I must be a reflection of your mercy,
I must be a reminder of your grace
Your melody is stirring inside of me!
Your glory is so wide,
Your wisdom so high!
You have always been and you forever will be!
I must not remain silent about what an amazing Savior you are!
How can I express something I can never comprehend?
I must shout to the world I would give up without you!
It’s only because of you that I’m still here.
You have revived me so many times.
You have held me while I cried.
You have healed my scars
You have delivered me from the darkness within my heart
You have broken the chains of my self hatred and pride.
You have spared the one I love.
I must tell everyone I know
That you died on a cross
Now you are alive!
I must show them why you came
I must announce your wonders and love today!
© 2008
I Must
T.J. Ellis
November 27, 2008
I must tell of your marvelous beauty
I must sing of your greatness
I must praise your awesome name!
I must proclaim how wonderful you are!
I must declare that You are eternal
I must be a reflection of your mercy,
I must be a reminder of your grace
Your melody is stirring inside of me!
Your glory is so wide,
Your wisdom so high!
You have always been and you forever will be!
I must not remain silent about what an amazing Savior you are!
How can I express something I can never comprehend?
I must shout to the world I would give up without you!
It’s only because of you that I’m still here.
You have revived me so many times.
You have held me while I cried.
You have healed my scars
You have delivered me from the darkness within my heart
You have broken the chains of my self hatred and pride.
You have spared the one I love.
I must tell everyone I know
That you died on a cross
Now you are alive!
I must show them why you came
I must announce your wonders and love today!
© 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
T'WAS the Night Before Thanksgiving! PartI
Happy Pre- Thankgiving:
I want to thank you all who prayed for me to feel better. Yesterday, was the first day I have felt well! Good timing since thanksgiving is just less than some hours away. I have decided on my own to go off my iron for a bit. I'll try getting back to it next week.
One of the things I do to prepare for Thanksgiving is make a list of things I am thankful to God for. I'd like to do that now, and share it with you, if you don't mind.
1. God unfailing love for me, and saving me from me sins.
2. My mom's healing from her cancer, and her ongoing recovery.
3. God's comfort and lessons during her illness.
4. My Brother
5. My Grandmother
6. New Friends and maintaining ongoing friendships.
7. My Cousins and family
8. Christian family
9. My work with AAA
10. Answer Prayers
11. Relationship with God
12. Relationship with Mom
13 My Church
14. My best friends
15 My Deliverance
16. That people read my writing.
17. Food of course.
18. Easter!!!!!
These are just a few: No matter what we name our blessings. we need to remember that each one comes DIRECTLY or indirectly from the hand of God. For Christians every day should involve some form of Thanksgiving, don't you think? Good thing we don't eat like that everyday right? Ha!
I want to thank you all who prayed for me to feel better. Yesterday, was the first day I have felt well! Good timing since thanksgiving is just less than some hours away. I have decided on my own to go off my iron for a bit. I'll try getting back to it next week.
One of the things I do to prepare for Thanksgiving is make a list of things I am thankful to God for. I'd like to do that now, and share it with you, if you don't mind.
1. God unfailing love for me, and saving me from me sins.
2. My mom's healing from her cancer, and her ongoing recovery.
3. God's comfort and lessons during her illness.
4. My Brother
5. My Grandmother
6. New Friends and maintaining ongoing friendships.
7. My Cousins and family
8. Christian family
9. My work with AAA
10. Answer Prayers
11. Relationship with God
12. Relationship with Mom
13 My Church
14. My best friends
15 My Deliverance
16. That people read my writing.
17. Food of course.
18. Easter!!!!!
These are just a few: No matter what we name our blessings. we need to remember that each one comes DIRECTLY or indirectly from the hand of God. For Christians every day should involve some form of Thanksgiving, don't you think? Good thing we don't eat like that everyday right? Ha!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Meg Ryan Haircut and hot pink nails!
I am feeling icky from my iron pills, so I'm just posting pictures for now. Enjoy!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Abundant does not equal easy!
Hello Readers:
I hope you won't mind if I talk about my life a little. How ironic to begin this way when my last post was about how life is not about us lol. I plan still write about day 2 of PDL at some point, because it is such an encouragement!
I was reading in the book and It was about Romans 8:28 "For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love him, and are called according to His Purpose." We don't just feel that all things work together for our good, in fact we may not feel like things are working out at all, but that is when we begin to really know, believe and trust even when our emotions are saying otherwise. God never promised us easy lives. In fact, it is clear that as Christian Jesus tells us our lives will be many things, but easy is not one of them. It is hard for me to understand the difference between the words abundant and easy. Jesus did promise us abundant life, but never an easy one. See John 10:10 See John 16:33 and John Chapter 17. It is funny how our sinful ideas of the abundant life is so vastly different from his Holy ideal of life to the full It comes back to the fact that his thoughts are higher than ours, and his ways are greater than ours. Isa. 55:9. God never said everything that happens to us will be" good" He does say that everything that happens to us even the bad things he will and can use for our ultimate good! There are conditions to this promise. It only applies to authentic believers, who love God. Real Christians will love Jesus, not perfectly, but we will love him, sometimes sadly more than others times. Jesus said if we love him we will keep his commandments. My idea of abundant life is being married without CP, and maybe having children, and being an author and speaker, but God's idea of my abundant life is far better than my false ideal. His abundant for me is not always easy, or what I think I want, but his plan and purpose for me always is to mold and make us to be like Christ, and it is best! So what do you think is your ideal vision of your personal abundant life? How does your false ideal differ from God's real abundant life? Are these the same for you? Thanks for letting me share! I'm glad God's plans are to prosper us by his standards and not ours. I'll post a picture of my Meg Ryan Haircut soon! Thanks for reading. I'm going to eat my supper! I am so thankful for the wonderful church service today, and such an ecouraging yet convicting sermon!
I hope you won't mind if I talk about my life a little. How ironic to begin this way when my last post was about how life is not about us lol. I plan still write about day 2 of PDL at some point, because it is such an encouragement!
I was reading in the book and It was about Romans 8:28 "For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love him, and are called according to His Purpose." We don't just feel that all things work together for our good, in fact we may not feel like things are working out at all, but that is when we begin to really know, believe and trust even when our emotions are saying otherwise. God never promised us easy lives. In fact, it is clear that as Christian Jesus tells us our lives will be many things, but easy is not one of them. It is hard for me to understand the difference between the words abundant and easy. Jesus did promise us abundant life, but never an easy one. See John 10:10 See John 16:33 and John Chapter 17. It is funny how our sinful ideas of the abundant life is so vastly different from his Holy ideal of life to the full It comes back to the fact that his thoughts are higher than ours, and his ways are greater than ours. Isa. 55:9. God never said everything that happens to us will be" good" He does say that everything that happens to us even the bad things he will and can use for our ultimate good! There are conditions to this promise. It only applies to authentic believers, who love God. Real Christians will love Jesus, not perfectly, but we will love him, sometimes sadly more than others times. Jesus said if we love him we will keep his commandments. My idea of abundant life is being married without CP, and maybe having children, and being an author and speaker, but God's idea of my abundant life is far better than my false ideal. His abundant for me is not always easy, or what I think I want, but his plan and purpose for me always is to mold and make us to be like Christ, and it is best! So what do you think is your ideal vision of your personal abundant life? How does your false ideal differ from God's real abundant life? Are these the same for you? Thanks for letting me share! I'm glad God's plans are to prosper us by his standards and not ours. I'll post a picture of my Meg Ryan Haircut soon! Thanks for reading. I'm going to eat my supper! I am so thankful for the wonderful church service today, and such an ecouraging yet convicting sermon!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
PDL Day 1
Greetings Bloggers!
Remember me? Okay so maybe it has not been that long. Last post, I asked you to consider why you thought you were here on earth? I enjoyed hearing your responses, and was greatly encouraged by your heartfelt honesty. The point of such questions, was to show myself, and hopefully you too, that while many tasks are part of how we fulfill our purpose, our sole purpose is to bring glory to God. by our very existence. This is not because He needs us to give him anything, everything in all creation belongs to him! Ps. 24:1 He God chose us before creation to reflect his glory, of course not perfectly, because we are sinners, yet just by being here are earth God has made our lives a testament to His Greatness! Since we were created by God alone, we will never find purpose outside of our Purpose Giver! Those are my thoughts from Day 1 of The Purpose Driven Life By: Rick Warren.
Day 1 It All Starts with God Pg. 17-21
Major Theme:
Remember me? Okay so maybe it has not been that long. Last post, I asked you to consider why you thought you were here on earth? I enjoyed hearing your responses, and was greatly encouraged by your heartfelt honesty. The point of such questions, was to show myself, and hopefully you too, that while many tasks are part of how we fulfill our purpose, our sole purpose is to bring glory to God. by our very existence. This is not because He needs us to give him anything, everything in all creation belongs to him! Ps. 24:1 He God chose us before creation to reflect his glory, of course not perfectly, because we are sinners, yet just by being here are earth God has made our lives a testament to His Greatness! Since we were created by God alone, we will never find purpose outside of our Purpose Giver! Those are my thoughts from Day 1 of The Purpose Driven Life By: Rick Warren.
Day 1 It All Starts with God Pg. 17-21
Major Theme:
Point to Ponder:It's not about you. "( Directly from page 21)
Verse for your reflection: Colossians 1:16
Quote to consider: "You were made by God and for God- and until you understand that, life will never make sense." The PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE BY: Rick Warren
Question to Consider:" In Spite of all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself that life is really about living for God not myself?" Pg. 21 Rick Warren(TPDL)
More thoughts from just me: I don't think we as Christians would really say out loud that life is about us, but just because we don't say does not mean, we at times aren't believing it is true and behaving that way. For me personally I am often far to focused on my own level of inner contentment, instead of fulling God's agenda. Ouch that was harder to admit than I thought. So I'm interested in your thoughts, responses, etc. BTW day 2 comes next which is titled: "You Are Not an Accident" I think it is my favorite day in the book. Btw I got about 3 inches of my hair cut off, and added lots of blond highlights. The cut was patterned after Meg Ryan's hair cut in the movie "Hanging up"
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Questions and more...
Hi folks:
I am going to ask you to bear with me, as once again I am doing something diffrent tonight that I was planning to do. Think about the following questions. You can post your answers if you want to share your answers with other bloggers, or you can keep your own personal journal.
1. Why are you here? (meaning on Earth) not my blog lol.
2. What is your purpose? Not just the sunday school answer, but what do you truly think your purpose is?
3 What is one thing that keeps you from living out your purpose? NOTE THESE QUESTIONS ARE NOT IN THE PDL BOOK THOUGH THE QUESTIONS ARE ADDRESSED THERE.
Don't feel bad if you don't know how to repond to these questions, this is just some things to think about.
Now, untill I come back chew on these. Also, bear with me as I have a lot I'm sorting through myself, so I'm not going to be able to blog everyday, but when I do blog, I will strive to make it worthwhile for readers! Thanks!
Side note: I've had migranes this week, and please remember my uncle in your prayers as he just found about some serious health problems. It has been a good week overall more on that later. Hope you all are well. Mom goes back to work next week. Thanks for your prayers for her.
I am going to ask you to bear with me, as once again I am doing something diffrent tonight that I was planning to do. Think about the following questions. You can post your answers if you want to share your answers with other bloggers, or you can keep your own personal journal.
1. Why are you here? (meaning on Earth) not my blog lol.
2. What is your purpose? Not just the sunday school answer, but what do you truly think your purpose is?
3 What is one thing that keeps you from living out your purpose? NOTE THESE QUESTIONS ARE NOT IN THE PDL BOOK THOUGH THE QUESTIONS ARE ADDRESSED THERE.
Don't feel bad if you don't know how to repond to these questions, this is just some things to think about.
Now, untill I come back chew on these. Also, bear with me as I have a lot I'm sorting through myself, so I'm not going to be able to blog everyday, but when I do blog, I will strive to make it worthwhile for readers! Thanks!
Side note: I've had migranes this week, and please remember my uncle in your prayers as he just found about some serious health problems. It has been a good week overall more on that later. Hope you all are well. Mom goes back to work next week. Thanks for your prayers for her.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Cheating on God
Hi Everyone,
I am excited by your responses to my recent blogs. What do you think of the music play list should I keep it or not? does it distract from reading my blogs? I want the main focus of this blog to be om the content, but I also want to point others to Jesus in whatever way possible! Thank you to all my new visitors for stopping by.
I probably won't be able to start posting lessons from PDL at least until Saturday for those of you wondering. The first concept is #1 It's Not about me... I know that the world around us tells us that it is about us, what we want, think, feel, but life did not begin with us. It began with God! Is it me or is that a hard concept to accept even as a Christian? Anyway I won't linger on that point I'll move on for now. Can I ask you something? Have you ever told God you would do something and failed to followed through? Maybe I'm in this alone here, but this is a struggle for me. I find myself telling God Lord if you will just do this for me, then I'll do XYZ or whatever it may be. This is a dangerous place to be. I never thought of myself as the type to make bargains with God, but I realized today I do. I'm trying to repent, but I admit it's a battle. The truth is God does NOT owe me anything. He didn't have to create me, love me, or bless me. Most of all, He sure didn't have to save me by sending Jesus his perfect son to die in my place, but, he did. when Joshua took over after Moses died, the people declared their willingness to follow God in everything, but we later learn that they lacked the follow through to do, what they said they would. I know God takes it seriously when I break my commitments to him. The harder question is: do I take it seriously when I break my commitments to him. A commitment is more than saying we will do something, and not doing it. In James it says, when we Know the right thing to do, and don't do it we are sinning. Ouch! I'm just glad Jesus has follow through aren't you? He followed through in coming to earth, He followed through by dying on the cross, and rising from the dead! He did it because he followed through because He is God, and God never lacks follow through! How can we better emulate nature in following through? I guess it can be summed up in an old song, I've decided to follow Jesus, but I must not only decide but follow through. , Otherwise, like a wife cheating on her husband, I'm cheating on God, by not obeying him and his LORDSHIP! Oh this is too hard, I need the Lord to grant me follow through, can you relate? Blessings!
I am excited by your responses to my recent blogs. What do you think of the music play list should I keep it or not? does it distract from reading my blogs? I want the main focus of this blog to be om the content, but I also want to point others to Jesus in whatever way possible! Thank you to all my new visitors for stopping by.
I probably won't be able to start posting lessons from PDL at least until Saturday for those of you wondering. The first concept is #1 It's Not about me... I know that the world around us tells us that it is about us, what we want, think, feel, but life did not begin with us. It began with God! Is it me or is that a hard concept to accept even as a Christian? Anyway I won't linger on that point I'll move on for now. Can I ask you something? Have you ever told God you would do something and failed to followed through? Maybe I'm in this alone here, but this is a struggle for me. I find myself telling God Lord if you will just do this for me, then I'll do XYZ or whatever it may be. This is a dangerous place to be. I never thought of myself as the type to make bargains with God, but I realized today I do. I'm trying to repent, but I admit it's a battle. The truth is God does NOT owe me anything. He didn't have to create me, love me, or bless me. Most of all, He sure didn't have to save me by sending Jesus his perfect son to die in my place, but, he did. when Joshua took over after Moses died, the people declared their willingness to follow God in everything, but we later learn that they lacked the follow through to do, what they said they would. I know God takes it seriously when I break my commitments to him. The harder question is: do I take it seriously when I break my commitments to him. A commitment is more than saying we will do something, and not doing it. In James it says, when we Know the right thing to do, and don't do it we are sinning. Ouch! I'm just glad Jesus has follow through aren't you? He followed through in coming to earth, He followed through by dying on the cross, and rising from the dead! He did it because he followed through because He is God, and God never lacks follow through! How can we better emulate nature in following through? I guess it can be summed up in an old song, I've decided to follow Jesus, but I must not only decide but follow through. , Otherwise, like a wife cheating on her husband, I'm cheating on God, by not obeying him and his LORDSHIP! Oh this is too hard, I need the Lord to grant me follow through, can you relate? Blessings!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
October Sillyness!
Two adorable cousins.
Are they really grown men?
I am delayed in posting... I loaned my PDL book to a friend for a few days who needed it more than I do at the moment because of some recent Crises in her life. I am going to post some pictures for our fall gathering my Aunt and Uncle hosted last night.
I will aparently do almost anything for a cake dounut!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
A Little of TPDL
Hello,
I guess I am in a writing mood this weekend. I would encourage you to read my Whoa Baby post to see pictures of Baby Alex before you read this one. I have begun doing the purpose driven life again for the second time. I got a lot from it the first time, not nearly as much I am now as I currently study it. If Christians could truly grab hold of the Biblical truths layed out in this book, then I can't begin to imagine how Christ Centered we might become! We might have to relearn this truths again and again, until they become a part of us, but what a wonderful thought that could happen if we did. If you have done The Purpose Driven Life By Rick Warren, and didn't get into it, maybe the timing was not right for the lessons, but please try again. My plan is to go slowly through this book, learning the concepts and Bible verses, not just reading them, but rereading them, I know it can be done in 40 days, but it takes me longer for things to make their way from my head to my soul. So, if you have this book and want to follow along with some of my upcoming posts, feel free so you can better understand the insights from my posts. I don't know how much book content I can actually post on the blog, because of copyright, but I'm sure you will still enjoy it, and get the basics ideas. I'm already on Day 7, but for the Blog I'll begin with Day 1. Warning the book uses many different Bible Translations. Some I enjoy more than others, but the message of the Gospel Remains the same. I'm not a big fan, of paraphrases in general, like The Message, so as much as I can, I'll avoid those. We will see how it works. It may not be an every day posting, but we will see where it leads. I'll stop here for today, but just a little intro post here.
Life is good with me, I'm still sorting through the last few months, now that there is time to reflect and not just live through it. God is beyond good! Thank you to my new readers for stopping by!
I guess I am in a writing mood this weekend. I would encourage you to read my Whoa Baby post to see pictures of Baby Alex before you read this one. I have begun doing the purpose driven life again for the second time. I got a lot from it the first time, not nearly as much I am now as I currently study it. If Christians could truly grab hold of the Biblical truths layed out in this book, then I can't begin to imagine how Christ Centered we might become! We might have to relearn this truths again and again, until they become a part of us, but what a wonderful thought that could happen if we did. If you have done The Purpose Driven Life By Rick Warren, and didn't get into it, maybe the timing was not right for the lessons, but please try again. My plan is to go slowly through this book, learning the concepts and Bible verses, not just reading them, but rereading them, I know it can be done in 40 days, but it takes me longer for things to make their way from my head to my soul. So, if you have this book and want to follow along with some of my upcoming posts, feel free so you can better understand the insights from my posts. I don't know how much book content I can actually post on the blog, because of copyright, but I'm sure you will still enjoy it, and get the basics ideas. I'm already on Day 7, but for the Blog I'll begin with Day 1. Warning the book uses many different Bible Translations. Some I enjoy more than others, but the message of the Gospel Remains the same. I'm not a big fan, of paraphrases in general, like The Message, so as much as I can, I'll avoid those. We will see how it works. It may not be an every day posting, but we will see where it leads. I'll stop here for today, but just a little intro post here.
Life is good with me, I'm still sorting through the last few months, now that there is time to reflect and not just live through it. God is beyond good! Thank you to my new readers for stopping by!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Whoa, Baby!
This adorable baby boy is my friend's son Alex. Michelle is great mom to Alex! It will be so much fun to watch him grow up. He did not like getting his picture made at first, but he warmed up to the idea, once he saw the camera flash. He is a very alert baby for his age. Thanks for bringing him to visit Michelle! How precious is God's creation!
Friday, October 03, 2008
Waterfalls of Joy Flowing My Heart
Hi, few but faithful readers!
Can you see them? Can you see those waterfalls of Joy flowing from my heart?! Waterfalls so big and beautiful that it takes my breath away, Waterfalls so full it brings me not only to tears but full blown sobs? Joy is such a tiny word for such an intense state of being! Before you call me a fruit loop let me tell you about what has caused these waterfalls! Most of you know already, but on Tuesday my mom found out her cancerous tumor is gone!!!!!!!!!!!!! To God be the Glory and to him alone I offer praise! I am still processing all this as much as one can process a miracle! It isn't that I didn't believe God could remove mom's tumor, I always knew He is Able, I just didn't know if he would. I knew somehow we would get through this with God, and he would be faithful as he always has been and forever will be! What I didn't know is if healing would be in his plan, but I earnestly prayed God would make it be so! I tend by nature to lean on the side of caution, when some Christians say God always desires to heal, I am quickly angered and often deeply hurt, by such statements. God has taught me through this though, that There is a time when He heals because He alone Is The Healer! I cannot begin to express my gratitude to Almighty God for making my mom's tumor disappear! My mom will need to have her lymph nodes tested for Cancer in 6 weeks, the surgeon does not believe there will be any. As you rejoice with me please pray by God's unlimited grace he won't allow there to be any other cancer elsewhere. I am so glad God chose healing this time! I don't know what may come in the recent or far reaching future, for my mom or for any of us, I am slowly learning it is enough to live in the waterfalls of joy today, striving to not take his healing for granted but learning in baby steps to commit my life to him, regardless of if his answer to healing is yes or no. Thank you from the very bottom of my heart for your prayers! Your cards, gifts meals, visits, and more! Please keep praying! Mom has a long road to getting back to normal life. Thanks be to God, for how far He has lead her!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Body is in Chattanooga, but heart in FL.
As I sit here at my desk, I'm fully aware that my physical body is here in Chattanooga, but even more aware that my heart and mind is still at the beach! I've always felt like nothing could hurt me or touch me at the beach! Except of course the ever present sunburn, that I'm more than willing to endure in order to see the beauty of the ocean! As little girl I adored the beach even though I remember only tiny things about what it was like living there in FL. I was of course born iin Daytona Beach FL. This time my family gave mom and I the gift of taking a week long trip to FT. Walton Beach FL. (You can see a few pictures in my previous post. I had one of the best weeks of my life! The meals were amazing, the scenery so beautiful and I found myself over and over again overwhelmed by thankfulness and awed by the goodness of God!!!! I never would have imagined even two weeks ago that God would make a way for mom and I to go anywhere for a weekend, much less the beach for a week. I know it was because of God's grace and your prayers. God reminded me that his love truly knows no bounds it goes beyond the height of the heavens and the Immeasurable length of the seas! Romans 8:38-39 reinforces this wonderful reality! I also thought about how even the beach cannot even begin to contain the fullness of God's glory, and how it is only a tiny foreshadowing of what is waiting for us in heaven one day when Christ returns. See John Chapter 14. I always have the hardest time explaining to people why I look forward to heaven. I suppose there is some part of me that should dread it as most people, and there is a part of me that fears God's rebuke on Judgement Day and yet if what I have been taught, and believe is true, then why should I fear? Maybe I'm crazy, but there isn't anything or anyone on this earth that could compete with God and heaven, that would cause me to ask him for one moment to live on this earth, than he desires. In fact, at times, it is harder for me to see his purpose for remaining in this fallen world. I know I need a greater balance in perspective in regard to these things. Most of my longing for heaven, are self centered, because these are more about a pain free existence and lack of sin, than they are even about glorifying Christ Wow what a confession... Anyway something about the beach always reminds and teaches me more about the unfathomable greatness of God. If God can and has created and has sustained something as wonderful as the ocean, then what on earth makes me doubt his watching over me, caring for me loving me. Why would I every question his ways? I never liked to read the latter part of Mt. Chapter 6 about not worrying, because I believed it was a punishment from God, and I believed every time I worried that God looked down on me with disgust, but really this week he showed me it isn't so much about him or others scolding us, as it is about him telling us that because he cares for us; our worrying is not needed. God loves us far too much to let any need we have go unmet. Mt. 6:25-33 I'll be glad to post the verses later. I had a great time with Mom she feels better everyday, and I praise God, and am striving to trust him with the next steps in her treatment/recovery. Blessings,
Beach pictures 2008(More pics and reflections next post
My favorite time was during this picture, and then that same night!
My mom looks amazing!Sunday, August 17, 2008
Step closer to The Living Hope! Part I
Hi,
I cannot seem to get my thoughts together, so I thought I'd try blogging. My mom had one really good day this week, but last night was bad as she had terrible stomach problems! She will need to go back on the Brat diet fully. I wish I could trade places with her, to spare her. though I know I would not be a good sport like she has been. She says I would quickly change my mind if I could. I hope I would love her enough not to change my mind, because she is worthy of such love!
All my life I have heard things like: My hope is the Lord, I have even sung it, but the more the Lord takes away my false sense of refuges, the more I want my hope to be fully in him! He is always there, Always Love, Always forgiving and always waiting on me! I know I still have a long way to go, before I can truly say He alone is my hope and my portion, because I daily fail to pot my total hope and trust in him. However, in the last 4 of years, and even more now my faith is being tested like never before, and I think I am a few steps closer to total trust, than I ever thought I could be! God directed me to 1 Peter today, and what I found both surprised and encouraged me! I will only post part of the chapter here... 1 Peter 1:13 www.bibleresources.bible.com All verses listed... 13 Therefore, get your minds ready for action, (A) [a] being self-disciplined, (B) and set your hope (C) completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation (D) of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 3-9 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (J) According to His great mercy, (K) He has given us a new birth (L) into a living hope (M) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (N) 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, (O) uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven (P) for you, 5 who are being protected by God's power (Q) through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (R) 6 You rejoice in this, [a] though now for a short time you have had to be distressed by various trials (S) 7 so that the genuineness of your faith (T) —more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire (U) —may result (V) in [b] praise, glory, and honor (W) at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (X) 8 You love Him, (Y) though you have not seen (Z) Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice (AA) with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your [c] faith, the salvation of your souls
Summary: Peter tells us that God has declared that we are to get our minds ready, and put our hope completely in God's grace, because He alone is the Living God! He reminds us we have an inheritance that will not fade or be destroyed, because God is keeping it safe for his own! We are told that our trials of every kind serve a Divine purpose! I'll post part 2 of this soon. Got to go for now!
I cannot seem to get my thoughts together, so I thought I'd try blogging. My mom had one really good day this week, but last night was bad as she had terrible stomach problems! She will need to go back on the Brat diet fully. I wish I could trade places with her, to spare her. though I know I would not be a good sport like she has been. She says I would quickly change my mind if I could. I hope I would love her enough not to change my mind, because she is worthy of such love!
All my life I have heard things like: My hope is the Lord, I have even sung it, but the more the Lord takes away my false sense of refuges, the more I want my hope to be fully in him! He is always there, Always Love, Always forgiving and always waiting on me! I know I still have a long way to go, before I can truly say He alone is my hope and my portion, because I daily fail to pot my total hope and trust in him. However, in the last 4 of years, and even more now my faith is being tested like never before, and I think I am a few steps closer to total trust, than I ever thought I could be! God directed me to 1 Peter today, and what I found both surprised and encouraged me! I will only post part of the chapter here... 1 Peter 1:13 www.bibleresources.bible.com All verses listed... 13 Therefore, get your minds ready for action, (A) [a] being self-disciplined, (B) and set your hope (C) completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation (D) of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 3-9 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (J) According to His great mercy, (K) He has given us a new birth (L) into a living hope (M) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (N) 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, (O) uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven (P) for you, 5 who are being protected by God's power (Q) through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (R) 6 You rejoice in this, [a] though now for a short time you have had to be distressed by various trials (S) 7 so that the genuineness of your faith (T) —more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire (U) —may result (V) in [b] praise, glory, and honor (W) at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (X) 8 You love Him, (Y) though you have not seen (Z) Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice (AA) with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your [c] faith, the salvation of your souls
Summary: Peter tells us that God has declared that we are to get our minds ready, and put our hope completely in God's grace, because He alone is the Living God! He reminds us we have an inheritance that will not fade or be destroyed, because God is keeping it safe for his own! We are told that our trials of every kind serve a Divine purpose! I'll post part 2 of this soon. Got to go for now!
Monday, August 11, 2008
a love to be Believed!
Hi,
My mom is having a fairly good day today. I am so excited that Jenn is home! Jenn is one of the most amazing women I have ever known, and she makes me want more of Jesus every time I talk with her!
So can I just tell you that God is faithful to me! He let my best friend come home at a time in my life that I so need to talk to her, laugh with her, pray with her! I've known God's love in ways I could not have before! I know he has put my life together to this point, and he is holding it together now! believed
And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him. 1 John 4:16 Isn't that neat! God wants us not only to know he loves us, but he wants us to believe in his love for us! He goes even further, by telling us he is love! He even proved his love through the agony of giving his life! Greater is he who is in us than he is in the world! I have glossed over that verse so many times, but what power is in it!
My mom is having a fairly good day today. I am so excited that Jenn is home! Jenn is one of the most amazing women I have ever known, and she makes me want more of Jesus every time I talk with her!
So can I just tell you that God is faithful to me! He let my best friend come home at a time in my life that I so need to talk to her, laugh with her, pray with her! I've known God's love in ways I could not have before! I know he has put my life together to this point, and he is holding it together now! believed
And we have come to know and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him. 1 John 4:16 Isn't that neat! God wants us not only to know he loves us, but he wants us to believe in his love for us! He goes even further, by telling us he is love! He even proved his love through the agony of giving his life! Greater is he who is in us than he is in the world! I have glossed over that verse so many times, but what power is in it!
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Forgiven.... So What???!
Hi there:
(Please forgive my title, the sarcasm is only intended to make an important point.)
I warn you this could be a long post, as many thoughts have been rolling around in my head. Sometimes the urge to write just overtakes me, and I must yield to it! Mom and I went to see the movie" Mommamia" yesterday, at least I think that is how you spell it, and I loved it! Until recently I never consider myself a fan of movie musicals, but after seeing the modern version of Hairspray, and now this, all that has changed. It was good for both mom and I to get out yesterday, there was breath taking beach scenery in the movie! I warn as with most movies, there are some less than" Christian" scenes, so if you have a strong sense of conviction God has given you about not watching anything other than family friendly movies, it is not my wish to cause anyone to stumble, I personally do not struggle in this specific area, but I do in many other things outside of movies. I was glad mom could "getaway" for a bit. I know she must get tired of hearing the "C" word all the time. Things with my new caregiver are wonderful, and I am so blessed God is taking care of me!
I want to ask you something? Do you know the joy of being forgiven by God? Have you recently been reminded of the reality that you need to be forgiven by God? I don't know about you, but I take the wonder of God's forgiveness for granted on a daily basis. I'm not talking about self condemnation or self-loathing here. I was reminded this week, that I once was lost, and Christ forgave me! I tend to either fixate on my sin or completely ignore my sin, instead of walking in the joy and victory of first, knowing I need to be forgiven, and as important: is living as a person who is being forgiven, has been forgiven and will be forgiven! Can others tell that Jesus has forgiven me? Can others tell that Christ has forgiven you, or do they just think that some how "us church folks are "good" enough? Deep deep down do we ever have those thoughts ourselves, they won't can't admit it can we? Romans: 3:23... "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." I know you have heard it preached until our ears are dulled to it, but if what the only way we truly grasp hold of the Good News" is by really taking hold of the bad news first, it isn't until I remember my sin, and my need to be forgiven, that I can really begin to walk in the joy and wonder of being forgiven!! Eph. 1.7" He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins." How awesome to all who are forgiven!
All for now! Please keep praying for my mom, and also that God will intervene and stop the abortion clinic from locating in Chattanooga, and that Christians will fight evil, by doing good. To the world, the Gospel is foolish, even many "so called" Christians have abandoned the faith in times past and present, but oh how it is my desire that they return to the "way" and that I/we shall stand firm, not abandoning the hope of the true Gospel. Yes, I am fired up! In love I write, and preach to myself!
(Please forgive my title, the sarcasm is only intended to make an important point.)
I warn you this could be a long post, as many thoughts have been rolling around in my head. Sometimes the urge to write just overtakes me, and I must yield to it! Mom and I went to see the movie" Mommamia" yesterday, at least I think that is how you spell it, and I loved it! Until recently I never consider myself a fan of movie musicals, but after seeing the modern version of Hairspray, and now this, all that has changed. It was good for both mom and I to get out yesterday, there was breath taking beach scenery in the movie! I warn as with most movies, there are some less than" Christian" scenes, so if you have a strong sense of conviction God has given you about not watching anything other than family friendly movies, it is not my wish to cause anyone to stumble, I personally do not struggle in this specific area, but I do in many other things outside of movies. I was glad mom could "getaway" for a bit. I know she must get tired of hearing the "C" word all the time. Things with my new caregiver are wonderful, and I am so blessed God is taking care of me!
I want to ask you something? Do you know the joy of being forgiven by God? Have you recently been reminded of the reality that you need to be forgiven by God? I don't know about you, but I take the wonder of God's forgiveness for granted on a daily basis. I'm not talking about self condemnation or self-loathing here. I was reminded this week, that I once was lost, and Christ forgave me! I tend to either fixate on my sin or completely ignore my sin, instead of walking in the joy and victory of first, knowing I need to be forgiven, and as important: is living as a person who is being forgiven, has been forgiven and will be forgiven! Can others tell that Jesus has forgiven me? Can others tell that Christ has forgiven you, or do they just think that some how "us church folks are "good" enough? Deep deep down do we ever have those thoughts ourselves, they won't can't admit it can we? Romans: 3:23... "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." I know you have heard it preached until our ears are dulled to it, but if what the only way we truly grasp hold of the Good News" is by really taking hold of the bad news first, it isn't until I remember my sin, and my need to be forgiven, that I can really begin to walk in the joy and wonder of being forgiven!! Eph. 1.7" He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins." How awesome to all who are forgiven!
All for now! Please keep praying for my mom, and also that God will intervene and stop the abortion clinic from locating in Chattanooga, and that Christians will fight evil, by doing good. To the world, the Gospel is foolish, even many "so called" Christians have abandoned the faith in times past and present, but oh how it is my desire that they return to the "way" and that I/we shall stand firm, not abandoning the hope of the true Gospel. Yes, I am fired up! In love I write, and preach to myself!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Who are you?
The following biblical affirmations about our identity in Jesus Christ are derived from a few selected passages in the New Testament. These passages teach a portion of the many truths about who we have become through faith in God's Son.
I am a child of God. John 1:12
I am a branch of the true vine, and a conduit of Christ's life. John 15:1-5
I am a friend of Jesus. John 15:15
I have been justified and redeemed. Romans 3:23-24; Romans 6:6
I will not be condemned by God, I have been set free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2
As a child of God, I am a fellow heir with Christ. Romans 8:17
I have been accepted by Christ. Romans 15:7
I have been called to be a saint 1 Corinthians 1:2; Ephesians 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2
In Christ Jesus, I have wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30
My body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in me 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19
I am joined to the Lord and am one spirit with him. 1 Corinthians 6:17
God leads me in the triumph and knowledge of Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:14
The hardening of my mind has been removed in Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:14
I am a new creature in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17
I have become the righteousness of God in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I have been made one with all who are in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28
I am no longer a slave but a child of an heir. Galatians 4:7
I have been set free in Christ. Galatians 5:1
I have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. Ephesians 1:3
I am chosen, holy, and blameless before God. Ephesians 1:4
I am redeemed and forgiven by the grace of Christ. Ephesians 1:7
I have been predestined by God to obtain an inheritance. Ephesians 1:9-11
I have been sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. Ephesians 1:13
Because of God's mercy and love, I have been made alive with Christ. Ephesians 2:4-5
I am seated in the heavenly places with Christ. Ephesians 2:6
I am God's workmanship created to produce good works. Ephesians 2:10
I have been brought near to God by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13
I am a member of Christ's body and a partaker of His promise. Ephesians 3:6; Ephesians 5:30
I have boldness and confident access to God through faith in Christ. Ephesians 3:12
My new self is righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:22-24
I was formerly darkness, but now I am light in the Lord. Ephesians 5:8
I am a citizen of heaven. Philippians 3:20
The peace of God guards my heart and mind. Philippians 4:7
God supplies all my needs. Philippians 4:19
I have been made complete in Christ. Colossians 2:9-10
I have been raised up with Christ. Colossians 3:1
My life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3
Christ is my life, and I will be revelaed with him in glory. Colossians 3:4
I have been chosen of God, and I am holy and beloved. Colossians 3:12
God loves me and has chosen me. 1 Thessalonians 1:4
Review this powerful inventory frequently, since it reminds us of truths we quickly forget amid the worries and cares of this world. The more we embrace these affirmations from Scripture, the more stable, grateful, and fully assured we will be in the course of our lives.
Questions For Personal Application
To what degree are you defined by the world? By the Word? How can you develop your identity more fully in the latter?
What does it require to see yourself as God sees you?
Which five from the list of biblical affirmations resonate the most with you? Which five seem the most remote to your experience? How can you make these more real in your thinking and practice?
These have really helped me in the last few years thought I'd share them I think these came from who does God say I am by Josh Mcdowell. Please pray for mom her white counts are really low right now. Thanks!
I am a child of God. John 1:12
I am a branch of the true vine, and a conduit of Christ's life. John 15:1-5
I am a friend of Jesus. John 15:15
I have been justified and redeemed. Romans 3:23-24; Romans 6:6
I will not be condemned by God, I have been set free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2
As a child of God, I am a fellow heir with Christ. Romans 8:17
I have been accepted by Christ. Romans 15:7
I have been called to be a saint 1 Corinthians 1:2; Ephesians 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2
In Christ Jesus, I have wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30
My body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in me 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19
I am joined to the Lord and am one spirit with him. 1 Corinthians 6:17
God leads me in the triumph and knowledge of Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:14
The hardening of my mind has been removed in Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:14
I am a new creature in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17
I have become the righteousness of God in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I have been made one with all who are in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28
I am no longer a slave but a child of an heir. Galatians 4:7
I have been set free in Christ. Galatians 5:1
I have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. Ephesians 1:3
I am chosen, holy, and blameless before God. Ephesians 1:4
I am redeemed and forgiven by the grace of Christ. Ephesians 1:7
I have been predestined by God to obtain an inheritance. Ephesians 1:9-11
I have been sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise. Ephesians 1:13
Because of God's mercy and love, I have been made alive with Christ. Ephesians 2:4-5
I am seated in the heavenly places with Christ. Ephesians 2:6
I am God's workmanship created to produce good works. Ephesians 2:10
I have been brought near to God by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13
I am a member of Christ's body and a partaker of His promise. Ephesians 3:6; Ephesians 5:30
I have boldness and confident access to God through faith in Christ. Ephesians 3:12
My new self is righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:22-24
I was formerly darkness, but now I am light in the Lord. Ephesians 5:8
I am a citizen of heaven. Philippians 3:20
The peace of God guards my heart and mind. Philippians 4:7
God supplies all my needs. Philippians 4:19
I have been made complete in Christ. Colossians 2:9-10
I have been raised up with Christ. Colossians 3:1
My life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3
Christ is my life, and I will be revelaed with him in glory. Colossians 3:4
I have been chosen of God, and I am holy and beloved. Colossians 3:12
God loves me and has chosen me. 1 Thessalonians 1:4
Review this powerful inventory frequently, since it reminds us of truths we quickly forget amid the worries and cares of this world. The more we embrace these affirmations from Scripture, the more stable, grateful, and fully assured we will be in the course of our lives.
Questions For Personal Application
To what degree are you defined by the world? By the Word? How can you develop your identity more fully in the latter?
What does it require to see yourself as God sees you?
Which five from the list of biblical affirmations resonate the most with you? Which five seem the most remote to your experience? How can you make these more real in your thinking and practice?
These have really helped me in the last few years thought I'd share them I think these came from who does God say I am by Josh Mcdowell. Please pray for mom her white counts are really low right now. Thanks!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Christmas in July!
Hi Devoted Readers:
I know you guys are praying for us, and I thank you! It has been a good week so far. I look forward to hosting my friend Michelle's baby shower this weekend. I'm so excited to meet her and Todd's son, Alex and spoil him completely rotten, but I know his family will spoil him first. My prayer for him, is that he will love the Lord God, and follow him, and know him as the one and only Savior! I pray for wisdom for Todd and Michelle as they embark on this journey called parenthood!
I am writing a post with Christmas in the tittle have I lost my mind??? Believe it or not, there is a perfectly logical reason for my madness. Today my time with the Lord was about his name being" Saviour" I read the Christmas story in July! I read about Mary pondering and Marveling at the face of God in baby Jesus. I read about how the heavenly hosts, appeared to the shepherds, and proclaimed A Savior has been born for YOU" I admit it was strange at first to read it without seeing Christmas trees and lights, but it was refreshing to really leave all those things aside and focus on the message alone and not the "seasonal aspects." I thought about how exciting it must have been for them to know that that Jesus was born to be their Savior, and this was one promise that they had access to, despite their earthly status, or lack of it. Sometimes I forget that Jesus, while of course saves me from hell literally, and that is the greatest hope I have, Jesus is also my "NOW SAVIOR" Daily I need a Savior who will rescue me from "dangers of the world, and a Savior who will stay with me! The Savior I need, the one and only I have is: Jesus! He is Savior year round and for all time! His saving power is not limited to seasons or situations or false idols. Will you join me in Celebrating the Savior of everyday, no matter what season of life you are in? Our Savior is Risen!
This devotional by Rick Warren, sent by my friend Sandra minstered to me so much, that I want to post it here. I hope you will read it when you can.
God Smiles When We Obey by Rick WarrenNoah did everything exactly as God had commanded him. Genesis 6:22 (NLT)*** *** *** ***Noah obeyed completely (no instruction was overlooked) and he obeyed exactly (in the way and time God wanted it done). That is wholeheartedness. It is no wonder God smiled on Noah.If God asked you to build a giant boat, don’t you think you might have a few questions, objections, and reservations? Noah didn’t. He obeyed God wholeheartedly. That means doing whatever God asks without reservation or hesitation. You don’t procrastinate and say, “I’ll pray about it.” You do it without delay. Every parent knows that delayed obedience is really disobedience. God doesn’t owe you an explanation or reason for everything he asks you to do. Understanding can wait, but obedience can’t. Instant obedience will teach you more about God than a lifetime of Bible discussions. In fact, you will never understand some commands until you obey them first. Obedience unlocks understanding.Often we try to offer God partial obedience. We want to pick and choose the commands we obey. We make a list of the commands we like and obey those while ignoring the ones we think are unreasonable, difficult, expensive, or unpopular. I’ll attend church but I won’t tithe. I’ll read my Bible but I won’t forgive the person who hurt me. Yet partial obedience is disobedience.Wholehearted obedience is done joyfully with enthusiasm. The Bible says, “Obey him gladly” (Psalm 100:2 LB). This is the attitude of David: “Just tell me what to do and I will do it, Lord. As long as I live I’ll wholeheartedly obey” (Psalm 119:33 LB).James, speaking to Christians, said, “We please God by what we do and not only by what we believe” (James 2:24 CEV). God’s Word is clear that you can’t earn your salvation. It comes only by grace, not your effort. But as a child of God you can bring pleasure to your heavenly Father through obedience. Any act of obedience is also an act of worship. Why is obedience so pleasing to God? Because it proves you really love him. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey my commandments” (John 14:15 TEV).
I know you guys are praying for us, and I thank you! It has been a good week so far. I look forward to hosting my friend Michelle's baby shower this weekend. I'm so excited to meet her and Todd's son, Alex and spoil him completely rotten, but I know his family will spoil him first. My prayer for him, is that he will love the Lord God, and follow him, and know him as the one and only Savior! I pray for wisdom for Todd and Michelle as they embark on this journey called parenthood!
I am writing a post with Christmas in the tittle have I lost my mind??? Believe it or not, there is a perfectly logical reason for my madness. Today my time with the Lord was about his name being" Saviour" I read the Christmas story in July! I read about Mary pondering and Marveling at the face of God in baby Jesus. I read about how the heavenly hosts, appeared to the shepherds, and proclaimed A Savior has been born for YOU" I admit it was strange at first to read it without seeing Christmas trees and lights, but it was refreshing to really leave all those things aside and focus on the message alone and not the "seasonal aspects." I thought about how exciting it must have been for them to know that that Jesus was born to be their Savior, and this was one promise that they had access to, despite their earthly status, or lack of it. Sometimes I forget that Jesus, while of course saves me from hell literally, and that is the greatest hope I have, Jesus is also my "NOW SAVIOR" Daily I need a Savior who will rescue me from "dangers of the world, and a Savior who will stay with me! The Savior I need, the one and only I have is: Jesus! He is Savior year round and for all time! His saving power is not limited to seasons or situations or false idols. Will you join me in Celebrating the Savior of everyday, no matter what season of life you are in? Our Savior is Risen!
This devotional by Rick Warren, sent by my friend Sandra minstered to me so much, that I want to post it here. I hope you will read it when you can.
God Smiles When We Obey by Rick WarrenNoah did everything exactly as God had commanded him. Genesis 6:22 (NLT)*** *** *** ***Noah obeyed completely (no instruction was overlooked) and he obeyed exactly (in the way and time God wanted it done). That is wholeheartedness. It is no wonder God smiled on Noah.If God asked you to build a giant boat, don’t you think you might have a few questions, objections, and reservations? Noah didn’t. He obeyed God wholeheartedly. That means doing whatever God asks without reservation or hesitation. You don’t procrastinate and say, “I’ll pray about it.” You do it without delay. Every parent knows that delayed obedience is really disobedience. God doesn’t owe you an explanation or reason for everything he asks you to do. Understanding can wait, but obedience can’t. Instant obedience will teach you more about God than a lifetime of Bible discussions. In fact, you will never understand some commands until you obey them first. Obedience unlocks understanding.Often we try to offer God partial obedience. We want to pick and choose the commands we obey. We make a list of the commands we like and obey those while ignoring the ones we think are unreasonable, difficult, expensive, or unpopular. I’ll attend church but I won’t tithe. I’ll read my Bible but I won’t forgive the person who hurt me. Yet partial obedience is disobedience.Wholehearted obedience is done joyfully with enthusiasm. The Bible says, “Obey him gladly” (Psalm 100:2 LB). This is the attitude of David: “Just tell me what to do and I will do it, Lord. As long as I live I’ll wholeheartedly obey” (Psalm 119:33 LB).James, speaking to Christians, said, “We please God by what we do and not only by what we believe” (James 2:24 CEV). God’s Word is clear that you can’t earn your salvation. It comes only by grace, not your effort. But as a child of God you can bring pleasure to your heavenly Father through obedience. Any act of obedience is also an act of worship. Why is obedience so pleasing to God? Because it proves you really love him. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey my commandments” (John 14:15 TEV).
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
sitting on The Rock not a rock
Happy 4Th of July few but faithful readers! I'm excited that I'll be spending a "normal" day with my family. Mom got her breast biopsy back and it is NOT cancer! There is a tumor, but no cancer there! Thanks for praying!
God is challenging my view of him, more every day as I read the Shack and a devotional called Knowing God by His Names By: Dick Purnell. "He is THE ROCK his works are perfect, and his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." Deut.32:4 A real rock is hard and solid and does not crumble as result of external elements. My cousin Jocelyn will sometimes sing a song that begins with the words "Standing on The Rock of God" She mostly just likes the hand motions I think but being that she is two and knows them is something. Often I look to "fake" or counterfeit rocks to hold me up or make feel safe. Sometimes my fake rocks are: relationships, works, performance, or situations. These rocks crumble and are counterfeits because the can be altered or moved. There is Only One Real Rock that does not change."He is The Rock, and he came in flesh as Jesus! The verse above says that the Rock's works are perfect! He does no wrong, He is faithful! How wonderful and comforting this is that?! Sometimes it's hard to believe this verse, but that is only because our ways and works are tainted by the effects of sin on our minds and hearts. In my case, physically it will be awhile before I can literally stand upon the rock, and maybe spiritually too, but I believe God is pleased when we take a step of faith enough to even sit upon the Real Rock! Give me your thoughts. Please pray for my mom, she begins her treatments on Monday. Thank you!
God is challenging my view of him, more every day as I read the Shack and a devotional called Knowing God by His Names By: Dick Purnell. "He is THE ROCK his works are perfect, and his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." Deut.32:4 A real rock is hard and solid and does not crumble as result of external elements. My cousin Jocelyn will sometimes sing a song that begins with the words "Standing on The Rock of God" She mostly just likes the hand motions I think but being that she is two and knows them is something. Often I look to "fake" or counterfeit rocks to hold me up or make feel safe. Sometimes my fake rocks are: relationships, works, performance, or situations. These rocks crumble and are counterfeits because the can be altered or moved. There is Only One Real Rock that does not change."He is The Rock, and he came in flesh as Jesus! The verse above says that the Rock's works are perfect! He does no wrong, He is faithful! How wonderful and comforting this is that?! Sometimes it's hard to believe this verse, but that is only because our ways and works are tainted by the effects of sin on our minds and hearts. In my case, physically it will be awhile before I can literally stand upon the rock, and maybe spiritually too, but I believe God is pleased when we take a step of faith enough to even sit upon the Real Rock! Give me your thoughts. Please pray for my mom, she begins her treatments on Monday. Thank you!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Love Lifted Me!
Youth today are often accused of not knowing church hymns. I know I may no longer be considered young by some folks, but this hymn came to mind before I began this post. The only words I know are: "When nothing else could help love lifted me!" Let me explain... Yesterday I sat through a AAA training for 6 hours, and I did not even stay the whole time, because it began at 8:30. I got up at 8:00 to at least be there by eleven. I left feeling I could do little to help with this one event, and even though I enjoyed the people, by the time I left I was beyond worn out... I was also sad to learn that AAA can no longer stay open on Saturdays because there are not enough volunteers. This was the shift I was taking before mom's illness came about. Getting her well is of course my first priority, other than wallking with the Lord. However, I am human and by last night I was feeling pretty helpless. Helpless unable to help mom beat her cancer, helpless in serving AAA. HELPLESS to fix anything. I come from a long line of fixers. I am unable to make dishes to help those who take dishes to those in need. I know my feelings of helplessness were from satan to keep my focus off Christ. If not careful helplessness can quickly give way to depression. When there is a lack of sleep that is involved, you can count on it. This morning I woke up still feeling this way, but after giving thanks and praise to the Lord, I expressed my fear of being prone to past temptations, depression, and helplessness, and nearly an hour later God's love lifted me. It lifted me as I remembered that prayer is a verb. It is an action. Just like cooking or giving. God's love lifted me as I watched a group of fellow Christians build me a new ramp for my house. God's love lifted me, as I confessed my sin and acknowledged my pride and desire to fix it myself. As I give him my heart, he lifted me with his love! Do you need a lift? If you do, I trust his love to lift you in due time! Thank you for praying for mom, pray that God will show me how to bless her, and others, for her healing most of all, and guard me against self focused depression. Thank you!
Friday, June 20, 2008
I will trust you for today!
Hello,
The AAA prayer time on Tues. went well! It was truly encouraging to meet others passionate about prayer and AAA's Ministry. Thanks Michelle and Mary for coming. You guys know my mom has cancer, and I thank you for your prayers for her and us Here is her Caringbridge page www.caringbridge.org/visit/madelineellis We are all very encouraged by the ongoing support of so many!
Lessons I'm learning: Even when it looks like Jesus is sleeping thorough the storms of life, he is still protecting those he loves. Need proof??? Mark 4:35-39 www.bibleresouces.bible.com
On that day, when evening came, He said to them, "Let us go over to the other side."
36Leaving the crowd, they took Him along with them (Z)in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him.
37And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up.
38Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"
39And He got up and (AA)rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still." And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm.
40And He said to them, "Why are you afraid? (AB)Do you still have no faith?"
41They became very much afraid and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"
Do you ever feel as though God is sleeping while the storms of your life are raging? Here is a reminder that God is not only fully aware of what's going on, but he is in full control as well. Most of all it is proof of his loving and watchful care.
Last night, I heard a still small voice speak to me. I told God I did not think my faith was strong enough to trust with "Everything", it when then I sensed the Holy Spirit saying all I asking you to do for now, is trust me with today. Day by day moment by moment choose to trust me with today. Will you trust him with today?
The AAA prayer time on Tues. went well! It was truly encouraging to meet others passionate about prayer and AAA's Ministry. Thanks Michelle and Mary for coming. You guys know my mom has cancer, and I thank you for your prayers for her and us Here is her Caringbridge page www.caringbridge.org/visit/madelineellis We are all very encouraged by the ongoing support of so many!
Lessons I'm learning: Even when it looks like Jesus is sleeping thorough the storms of life, he is still protecting those he loves. Need proof??? Mark 4:35-39 www.bibleresouces.bible.com
On that day, when evening came, He said to them, "Let us go over to the other side."
36Leaving the crowd, they took Him along with them (Z)in the boat, just as He was; and other boats were with Him.
37And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up.
38Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?"
39And He got up and (AA)rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Hush, be still." And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm.
40And He said to them, "Why are you afraid? (AB)Do you still have no faith?"
41They became very much afraid and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"
Do you ever feel as though God is sleeping while the storms of your life are raging? Here is a reminder that God is not only fully aware of what's going on, but he is in full control as well. Most of all it is proof of his loving and watchful care.
Last night, I heard a still small voice speak to me. I told God I did not think my faith was strong enough to trust with "Everything", it when then I sensed the Holy Spirit saying all I asking you to do for now, is trust me with today. Day by day moment by moment choose to trust me with today. Will you trust him with today?
I've been tagged, but...
I will answer the survey, but after that I will post another post, because I have other things to post about too.
1. What was I doing ten years ago. High school... Probably thinking life was a big deal. Getting over a hip surgery. Hanging out at ChurchCoffeeHouse.
2 What's on my to do list today? write letters,, Make a call for AAA, Journal, catch up on e-mail, read the shack, pray some more and call Sandra.
Snacks I enjoy:
3. graham crackers, Mexican Cheese dip and chips, Cheez-it crackers, Anything sweet and bad for me.
Places I've lived: Daytona Beach, Chattanooga TN. In the womb, and the hospital as a baby for a while.
4.What would I do if I were a billionare? Find a cure for cancer, AIDS, Depression., and other illnesses. I would give money to the church, buy a whirlpool for mom and me. Take my family and friends to Hawaii.
5. People I want to know more about: Denzel Washington, My brother, Kirk Cameron, Joni Erickison Tada, David Ring.
6. Two things I have in common with Oprah? We are both misunderstood, We both can act like "know it all's"
7. You can tell a lot about a person by: How they welcome people who are new., their tone of voice.
8. Are you a yeller when you get angry? Not often, I have to be really made for a long time to yell.
9. Have you ever danced in public? Does a poll count? If I did you would hear about it.
10. What did I do to get my first detention? I didn't ever have that, but I got in trouble for leaving group without permission to leave.
11. Name 3 things about the town you live in: my church, my family is here, and its in the south, but not so much that it annoys me.
12. Name something unusual you carry wherever you go: I hope love.
13. My favorite website: right now... www.caringbridge.org/visit/madelineellis
14. What would my enemy say about me? I'm needy
15. Favorite childhood memories, Christmases, When my brother and I played as kids. Anything with my cousin Bill.
16. Not sure... I think God has is taking those away!
Now I'm told to tag people!
1. What was I doing ten years ago. High school... Probably thinking life was a big deal. Getting over a hip surgery. Hanging out at ChurchCoffeeHouse.
2 What's on my to do list today? write letters,, Make a call for AAA, Journal, catch up on e-mail, read the shack, pray some more and call Sandra.
Snacks I enjoy:
3. graham crackers, Mexican Cheese dip and chips, Cheez-it crackers, Anything sweet and bad for me.
Places I've lived: Daytona Beach, Chattanooga TN. In the womb, and the hospital as a baby for a while.
4.What would I do if I were a billionare? Find a cure for cancer, AIDS, Depression., and other illnesses. I would give money to the church, buy a whirlpool for mom and me. Take my family and friends to Hawaii.
5. People I want to know more about: Denzel Washington, My brother, Kirk Cameron, Joni Erickison Tada, David Ring.
6. Two things I have in common with Oprah? We are both misunderstood, We both can act like "know it all's"
7. You can tell a lot about a person by: How they welcome people who are new., their tone of voice.
8. Are you a yeller when you get angry? Not often, I have to be really made for a long time to yell.
9. Have you ever danced in public? Does a poll count? If I did you would hear about it.
10. What did I do to get my first detention? I didn't ever have that, but I got in trouble for leaving group without permission to leave.
11. Name 3 things about the town you live in: my church, my family is here, and its in the south, but not so much that it annoys me.
12. Name something unusual you carry wherever you go: I hope love.
13. My favorite website: right now... www.caringbridge.org/visit/madelineellis
14. What would my enemy say about me? I'm needy
15. Favorite childhood memories, Christmases, When my brother and I played as kids. Anything with my cousin Bill.
16. Not sure... I think God has is taking those away!
Now I'm told to tag people!
Sunday, June 08, 2008
A Love Better Than Life???
Is there really a love better than Life?
In the last week, every time I open my Bible the word love leaps out at me! It could be that God wants me to know his love is with me at this time, or it could be because of Jenn's new written Bible study-I think it is both. In Jenn's first chapter she directed me to Ps. 63. It was there I found Ps. 63:3 "My lips will glorify you
Because your faithful LOVE is better than life."(HCSV) (Note the capitalization of love is my emphasis only) I must say I both envy and agree with King David here. I envy him, because at a time when his life was being turned upside, and others sought to kill him, he spoke confidently of God's love as being better than life. I hope that when it feels like the world is crashing down around me, I will still be quick to say God's love is better than life!
Another way I've been looking at this verse is this, sometimes life is hard, and the last word we use to describe our lives is good. Sometimes life is not all a bed of roses, but even then, God's love is better than our life situations alone. Jenn reminded me in her Bible study, that every day I must choose to believe God has a love for me that is better than life itself! But then another question if I am honest comes to mind. What is it that makes God's love better than life? I have been mediating on one verse a lot since Monday. I've always loved it, If you reading this I bet you will too! Isa. 54:10 "Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of be removed"
says the LORD who has compassion on you. God's love for his children will not fail, not only will it not fail, but it CANNOT Fail! That makes God's love better than life doesn't it?!!! God's love for Israel, did not waver even though their love for him always did. God's love for me does not waver or change even though both situations in life, as well as my love for him do. His love for us will not change or disappoint. His love for you will not fail, it is steady by his grace!. Enjoy that with me! Last, his love is better than life, because it is undeserved, and ever present. Thanks for reading! Topic to be cont.
In the last week, every time I open my Bible the word love leaps out at me! It could be that God wants me to know his love is with me at this time, or it could be because of Jenn's new written Bible study-I think it is both. In Jenn's first chapter she directed me to Ps. 63. It was there I found Ps. 63:3 "My lips will glorify you
Because your faithful LOVE is better than life."(HCSV) (Note the capitalization of love is my emphasis only) I must say I both envy and agree with King David here. I envy him, because at a time when his life was being turned upside, and others sought to kill him, he spoke confidently of God's love as being better than life. I hope that when it feels like the world is crashing down around me, I will still be quick to say God's love is better than life!
Another way I've been looking at this verse is this, sometimes life is hard, and the last word we use to describe our lives is good. Sometimes life is not all a bed of roses, but even then, God's love is better than our life situations alone. Jenn reminded me in her Bible study, that every day I must choose to believe God has a love for me that is better than life itself! But then another question if I am honest comes to mind. What is it that makes God's love better than life? I have been mediating on one verse a lot since Monday. I've always loved it, If you reading this I bet you will too! Isa. 54:10 "Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of be removed"
says the LORD who has compassion on you. God's love for his children will not fail, not only will it not fail, but it CANNOT Fail! That makes God's love better than life doesn't it?!!! God's love for Israel, did not waver even though their love for him always did. God's love for me does not waver or change even though both situations in life, as well as my love for him do. His love for us will not change or disappoint. His love for you will not fail, it is steady by his grace!. Enjoy that with me! Last, his love is better than life, because it is undeserved, and ever present. Thanks for reading! Topic to be cont.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Big Lips small heart
Hi friends:
I'm here. Hope your summer is starting off well. I love to do lots of fun stuff in the summer! For example, staying up half the night reading novels, watching movies and TV shows I never what any other time of the year. I also love cookouts, and baseball games. If I may confess in the summer months I've been known to neglect my walk with God at this time more than any other season of the year.I need to allow God to enrich my summer with more of him than anything else. Take a minute and ask yourself what God desires most from you. The other day I came across a verse which might help in answering this question. Matthew 15:8 www.biblegateway.com These people honor me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me." WOW I don't know about you, but that stung me! What do you think Jesus is telling us here? Is pointing out our that our words don't matter? No, because in earlier chapters, and other places in the Bible he says we will give an account for every careless word. Are you confused yet? Hang with me here. If God has our heart above everything else then what flows from our hearts will come out of the mouth, but what Jesus is speaking to us here, says to me that we can never impress God with our words, He sees beyond the formation of our lips straight into our hearts. My best Friend Jenn reminds me of this all the time. Even more, now that she is writing her new Bible study. We might have Jesus in our hearts as Savior, but if you are like me, so often he is not my first love! I don't know about you, but I need to offer God a little less of my lips, and far more of my heart. The Lord wants praise from our lips, but not without the love of our hearts first!
I am enjoying Karen Kingsbury's Ever After so much it's a wonder I can anything else. Please be in prayer there are lots of big needs out there. Blessings!
I'm here. Hope your summer is starting off well. I love to do lots of fun stuff in the summer! For example, staying up half the night reading novels, watching movies and TV shows I never what any other time of the year. I also love cookouts, and baseball games. If I may confess in the summer months I've been known to neglect my walk with God at this time more than any other season of the year.I need to allow God to enrich my summer with more of him than anything else. Take a minute and ask yourself what God desires most from you. The other day I came across a verse which might help in answering this question. Matthew 15:8 www.biblegateway.com These people honor me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me." WOW I don't know about you, but that stung me! What do you think Jesus is telling us here? Is pointing out our that our words don't matter? No, because in earlier chapters, and other places in the Bible he says we will give an account for every careless word. Are you confused yet? Hang with me here. If God has our heart above everything else then what flows from our hearts will come out of the mouth, but what Jesus is speaking to us here, says to me that we can never impress God with our words, He sees beyond the formation of our lips straight into our hearts. My best Friend Jenn reminds me of this all the time. Even more, now that she is writing her new Bible study. We might have Jesus in our hearts as Savior, but if you are like me, so often he is not my first love! I don't know about you, but I need to offer God a little less of my lips, and far more of my heart. The Lord wants praise from our lips, but not without the love of our hearts first!
I am enjoying Karen Kingsbury's Ever After so much it's a wonder I can anything else. Please be in prayer there are lots of big needs out there. Blessings!
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