it's worth repeating that "a mediocre plan that's implemented beats a brilliant one that's not."
This is a tough one for me because I HATE mediocre. Mediocre makes my stomach turn. I have been a perfectionist since I can remember. Always had to be the best at everything. Highest grades. Best speech. And on and on. I have always been my harshest critic. I have never wanted to settle for mediocre.
However, lofty goals just sitting on a shelf or in a book somewhere don't do much good. When we sit in a committee meeting and talk about what we COULD do in the IDEAL situation, we are doing nothing but just wasting our breath if we never start taking action steps toward those goals.
So, if I have a goal to win a city for Christ, and my friend has a goal to just win her neighbor, people might say I am a dreamer, a visioneer, superwoman--and may think my friend is chicken or not living up to her full potential. However, if I never open my mouth and start witnessing and my friend wins her one neighbor, and then moves on to the next and the next, she is actually better off than I am.
Let's make some goals---and then start acting on them, especially if they are goals for our lives that God has called us to... worship, pursuit of holiness, telling others about Jesus Christ!
Blessings!
3.31.2009
3.30.2009
march 30
it's worth repeating that "He (Jesus) couldn't do both, so He chose to save You."
As I read today's devotional, I found myself wanting to gloss over the story the preacher told. I think because I felt like I knew where it was going, and I have heard stories like this a hundred times growing up in church.
I don't like how easy it is for me to hear about God sacrificing His son and to not be stirred by it because I have just gotten used to the idea. God, forgive me. I don't want to ever feel like I don't need to hear about Your sacrifice anymore.... I do need to... I need to read it in Your Word. I need to hear about it in sermons. I need to understand it more fully to really appreciate it...
Jesus could not save Himself from the cross, without sending us to our own eternal deaths. Today I was struck by this notion. The Pharisees were taunting Jesus, mocking Him, almost challenging Him to save Himself. But they were actually throwing away their only hope of Heaven and true abundant life if Jesus accepted their challenge and came off that cross...
The same Pharisees who were "men of the Law" could not see that this was the Messiah, the One promised to them for so many years. Maybe it was because they had read about Him so many times that they just glossed over the fact of who He really was.
I pray I don't miss out on "seeing" Jesus because I have just gotten USED to being in church, and hearing about Him. I still want a fresh encounter with Him...every day.
Blessings!
3.27.2009
march 27
it's worth repeating that "sometimes we think God couldn't or wouldn't use us because of our weaknesses."
If there is a line of questioning I hate it is the questions that go like this:
"What are your greatest strengths?"
"What are your inherent weaknesses?"
I know these questions can be helpful in a job interview or placement service, but I hate answering them. I feel boastful talking about strengths, and embarrassed to label my weaknesses. What I really want to say is just go ask other people what they think about my strengths and weaknesses, or better yet, find out for yourself by getting to know me.
We all have strengths that make us valuable to a team or a company or a family. However, our weaknesses make us valuable too. They make us "real" to people. They help us to relate to others in our circle of life. Those who have struggled with a sin and been victorious knows better how to pray and counsel someone facing the same sin.
Don't let your weaknesses or past sins keep you from being the "salt of the earth". God still wants to use you...He loves broken vessels!
Blessings!
If there is a line of questioning I hate it is the questions that go like this:
"What are your greatest strengths?"
"What are your inherent weaknesses?"
I know these questions can be helpful in a job interview or placement service, but I hate answering them. I feel boastful talking about strengths, and embarrassed to label my weaknesses. What I really want to say is just go ask other people what they think about my strengths and weaknesses, or better yet, find out for yourself by getting to know me.
We all have strengths that make us valuable to a team or a company or a family. However, our weaknesses make us valuable too. They make us "real" to people. They help us to relate to others in our circle of life. Those who have struggled with a sin and been victorious knows better how to pray and counsel someone facing the same sin.
Don't let your weaknesses or past sins keep you from being the "salt of the earth". God still wants to use you...He loves broken vessels!
Blessings!
3.25.2009
march 25
it's worth repeating that "if you ask God, He'll give you the grace to minister to your mate."
Has your husband or wife ever been going through something, i.e. sickness, job loss, depressions, grief over a lost loved one,...and you just didn't know what to to do for them.
Especially if the trial continues, and your spouse doesn't seem to be getting better, we can easily get frustrated and want to either "fix them" or give up on them, and throw the towel in.
There are sometimes when my hubby just has a cold, and I get impatient and want thim to be better so he can help me or contribute to the parenting or housework. Selfish, I know.
When I went through depression, I did not get better overnight. In fact, I did not get back to my normal self for months, and I know it was so hard for Matt to continue to live with a depressed spouse all that time. I was so inwardly focused, which is a symptom of depression, but I thank God that Matt didn't try to fix me or give up on me. He prayed for me everyday and everytime I asked. He supported me and was my biggest fan through it all. He wasn't disappointed in me when I was having a very bad day. He stuck by me through everything, and to me that made him seem like not just a great husband, but a man after God's caring and compassionate heart. Thanks again, honey....
What is going on in your marriage right now? How can you serve your spouse today in their sickness and struggle?? We all made vows to stick through both sickness and health, poorer times and richer times, in the best times and the toughest times.... Just ask God for help, and He will give you the grace to keep loving and serving your spouse...
Blessings!
3.24.2009
march 24
it's worth repeating that "paul learned to add grace to his grit".
If we are all grit and no grace, then we are like sandpaper to people's hearts and souls. It's painful for people when we just speak the truth to them. If we add some grace to our grit, it enables us to speak the truth in love. People are able to hear us better and accept what we are saying to them if we sprinkle our conversations with them with grace.
I tend to be a pretty "black and white" person, and about 8 years ago realized that my personality was tending to seem brash and overbearing. Sarcasm became my primary means of communication, and I was always quick to debate, defend, even demoralize if I could win an argument or "be right". As I was reading the Word, I started praying for a gentle heart. The Bible says to let our gentleness be known to all, because the Lord is near. I was so convicted by this passage of scripture because I was only showing my grit, not so much grace, and certainly wasn't characterized by gentleness.
Thanks God he gave me a second chance...okay, many chances....to be the person He has called me to be!! And He is still giving me grace.....
Blessings!
3.23.2009
march 23
it's worth repeating that "if you've been traveling the road to success but neglected to bring your family along with you, make a U-turn."
Don't you just love alarm clocks, and wake-up calls? They make sure you stay on track for your day's schedule.
This devotional today is a wake-up call to all parents--especially to me. I love my children. They are such blessings. There are times, though, that I think of only MY dreams, and MY desires. And when I let myself get caught up in that way of thinking, I start to think of my children more as burdens than blessings. And I am sure it is reflected in my attitude, long-suffering, and temperament with them.
I don't ever want to assume that my children know that I love them.... I want to make sure they know that I love them and that I am so thankful to be their mom.
I want to honor God by being the mom that He desires me to be for my children.... So, Lord "I need your help, especially in my home." (Ps 101:2 TLB)
Take time today to show the love of God to your children....and to show them your love for them, too!!
Blessings!
Don't you just love alarm clocks, and wake-up calls? They make sure you stay on track for your day's schedule.
This devotional today is a wake-up call to all parents--especially to me. I love my children. They are such blessings. There are times, though, that I think of only MY dreams, and MY desires. And when I let myself get caught up in that way of thinking, I start to think of my children more as burdens than blessings. And I am sure it is reflected in my attitude, long-suffering, and temperament with them.
I don't ever want to assume that my children know that I love them.... I want to make sure they know that I love them and that I am so thankful to be their mom.
I want to honor God by being the mom that He desires me to be for my children.... So, Lord "I need your help, especially in my home." (Ps 101:2 TLB)
Take time today to show the love of God to your children....and to show them your love for them, too!!
Blessings!
3.20.2009
march 20
it's worth repeating that "Nothing, absolutely nothing, is more important than learning to recognize God's voice when He speaks to you".
Have you ever been away from someone you care about and you just want to call them so you can hear their voice?? Their voice has an impact on you...it can be calming, refreshing, loving... it makes you feel secure to hear that person...
I have been feeling very desperate as of late to hear God's voice. There is so much noise all around us, but we have to hear His voice so we can be obedient, so we can be wise, so we can walk down the right path...
God still speaks to His people...but we have to intentionally listen. What does God want to speak to you today through His Word?? You will never know if You don't open His Word today and ask Him...
Blessings!
Have you ever been away from someone you care about and you just want to call them so you can hear their voice?? Their voice has an impact on you...it can be calming, refreshing, loving... it makes you feel secure to hear that person...
I have been feeling very desperate as of late to hear God's voice. There is so much noise all around us, but we have to hear His voice so we can be obedient, so we can be wise, so we can walk down the right path...
God still speaks to His people...but we have to intentionally listen. What does God want to speak to you today through His Word?? You will never know if You don't open His Word today and ask Him...
Blessings!
3.19.2009
march 19
it's worth repeating that the voice of fear doesn't play fair.
The NCAA tournament is upon us!! One of my favorite sporting events of the year...even the underdog has a chance to win the title!! Most every game comes down to the wire, and you never know who is going to emerge as the "cinderella" team. For some of these teams, their "Road to the Final Four" seems impossible. They would have to play and defeat some of the strongest teams in the nation. These stronger teams will work to exploit their offense, and overpower and outsmart their defense. And if they're not careful they can lose the game even before they get to the court. They can listen to the media, bracketologists, and even smack-talkers from other teams and decide they don't have a chance. They could give into the voices around them that say there is NO WAY you could defeat this or that team. They could give into fear....
You see, fear cripples us before we even enter the arena. We have already been defeated in our minds before we even try. Fear tells us that we have failed before and that because of who we are we can never be successful or victorious. We have to say NO to fear and YES to the truth of God's Word.
We have to change the radio tuner in our heads to hearing God's voice in the midst of this madness. As we seek Him, He will speak to us... We need to zone in on His voice and tune out the voice of fear. He will speak to You! You don't have to be afraid when He is on your side!!
What are you afraid of today that is keeping you from getting in the game?? Don't let fear keep you from living out the abundant life God has planned for you...He promises never to harm us...but to give us hope and a future!!
Blessings!
The NCAA tournament is upon us!! One of my favorite sporting events of the year...even the underdog has a chance to win the title!! Most every game comes down to the wire, and you never know who is going to emerge as the "cinderella" team. For some of these teams, their "Road to the Final Four" seems impossible. They would have to play and defeat some of the strongest teams in the nation. These stronger teams will work to exploit their offense, and overpower and outsmart their defense. And if they're not careful they can lose the game even before they get to the court. They can listen to the media, bracketologists, and even smack-talkers from other teams and decide they don't have a chance. They could give into the voices around them that say there is NO WAY you could defeat this or that team. They could give into fear....
You see, fear cripples us before we even enter the arena. We have already been defeated in our minds before we even try. Fear tells us that we have failed before and that because of who we are we can never be successful or victorious. We have to say NO to fear and YES to the truth of God's Word.
We have to change the radio tuner in our heads to hearing God's voice in the midst of this madness. As we seek Him, He will speak to us... We need to zone in on His voice and tune out the voice of fear. He will speak to You! You don't have to be afraid when He is on your side!!
What are you afraid of today that is keeping you from getting in the game?? Don't let fear keep you from living out the abundant life God has planned for you...He promises never to harm us...but to give us hope and a future!!
Blessings!
3.18.2009
march 18
it's worth repeating that you need to "be careful who influences you, and be careful how you influence others."
Leadership is influence. We all have spheres of influence in our lives. What we need to ask ourselves is what impact is our influence having in the lives of those around us?? Are they better because of our influence or not? When you see something in someone you influence that you don't necessarily like..you may have to take a step back and ask yourself if that is something you see in yourself also...OUCH!
I love to be around people that inspire me just when I am with them. If I came to them down, I always leave filled with hope...ready to go on. And I desire to be that type of person with that type of influence.
Today, who are you allowing to influence you?? Is it causing you to grow? Who is in your sphere of influence? How can you be a better influence on those around you??
Take a step back today and ask yourself these questions...you will be a better leader because of it...
Blessings!
3.17.2009
march 17
it's worth repeating that "standing on that (God's promises) won't keep you from getting scared or soaked, but it'll keep you from sinking."
Happy St. Patrick's Day to all my Irish friends and not-so-Irish friends!! Don't forget to wear green today so you don't get pinched!!
As I was reading the devotional today, I was thinking about so many memories, milestones, and past trials in my own life. Some of them came without warning. Some swept over my life, and life me like a limp rag with no bearings whatsoever. Some of them scared me to death.
There were times in the midst of the trial that I questioned God's love, care, support, mercy, etc... I asked questions such as "Where are you, God?", "What did I do to get you so angry with me?", "Why is this happening right now?".
I thought the trial, the fear, the panic, the depression, would never end. But it did. In God's timing, it did. And I was stronger because of it.
God never promised that we wouldn't face trials... He did promise that He would never leave us. He did tell us that we can have courage in the midst of our trials, because He has already overcome this world. (Jn 16:33).
Just know that whatever you are facing today.... God is not shocked by it... He is not scrambling to figure out what to do... He still loves You... He hasn't forgotten you... And He WILL see you through it...
If there is anything you are facing today, please let me know by commenting on this blog, so I can join you in prayer...
Blessings!
Happy St. Patrick's Day to all my Irish friends and not-so-Irish friends!! Don't forget to wear green today so you don't get pinched!!
As I was reading the devotional today, I was thinking about so many memories, milestones, and past trials in my own life. Some of them came without warning. Some swept over my life, and life me like a limp rag with no bearings whatsoever. Some of them scared me to death.
There were times in the midst of the trial that I questioned God's love, care, support, mercy, etc... I asked questions such as "Where are you, God?", "What did I do to get you so angry with me?", "Why is this happening right now?".
I thought the trial, the fear, the panic, the depression, would never end. But it did. In God's timing, it did. And I was stronger because of it.
God never promised that we wouldn't face trials... He did promise that He would never leave us. He did tell us that we can have courage in the midst of our trials, because He has already overcome this world. (Jn 16:33).
Just know that whatever you are facing today.... God is not shocked by it... He is not scrambling to figure out what to do... He still loves You... He hasn't forgotten you... And He WILL see you through it...
If there is anything you are facing today, please let me know by commenting on this blog, so I can join you in prayer...
Blessings!
3.16.2009
march 16
it's worth repeating that "every lustful glance damages your marriage bond".
it is sad to see so many marriages in the state they are in. I get tired of hearing the statistics on divorce. My heart hurts when a man or woman tell me of their failing marriage or a mate who is straying away not only from their family, but from God.
Can I just be real? Marriage is not easy. There is work to be done in order to have a fulfilled marriage. Conversations have to be initiated that we would rather just bury. Actions have to be forgiven almost daily in order to keep the marriage on the straight path.
However, if you give up, you will never know the blessing of a GREAT marriage--not a perfect marriage---but a loving, committed, tried-and-true, marriage.
This is a great devotion today on how to keep purity as a priority in your marriage. Take these three verses and memorize them and live by them and you will be on the right road to a pure marriage. (1) "I have made a covenant with my eyes to not look lustfully". (2) Take captive every thought...make it obedient to Christ!" (3) Above all...guard your heart"
If you will make a commitment to live for God by deciding to make these verses a covenant between you and God and your spouse.... there will be blessings in your marriage.
If you are struggling with lust in your marriage, ask God to forgive you, ask God to give you a pure heart, and begin to live by these verses.
If you need to talk to someone, do it!! It's okay to reach out for help....
Blessings!
it is sad to see so many marriages in the state they are in. I get tired of hearing the statistics on divorce. My heart hurts when a man or woman tell me of their failing marriage or a mate who is straying away not only from their family, but from God.
Can I just be real? Marriage is not easy. There is work to be done in order to have a fulfilled marriage. Conversations have to be initiated that we would rather just bury. Actions have to be forgiven almost daily in order to keep the marriage on the straight path.
However, if you give up, you will never know the blessing of a GREAT marriage--not a perfect marriage---but a loving, committed, tried-and-true, marriage.
This is a great devotion today on how to keep purity as a priority in your marriage. Take these three verses and memorize them and live by them and you will be on the right road to a pure marriage. (1) "I have made a covenant with my eyes to not look lustfully". (2) Take captive every thought...make it obedient to Christ!" (3) Above all...guard your heart"
If you will make a commitment to live for God by deciding to make these verses a covenant between you and God and your spouse.... there will be blessings in your marriage.
If you are struggling with lust in your marriage, ask God to forgive you, ask God to give you a pure heart, and begin to live by these verses.
If you need to talk to someone, do it!! It's okay to reach out for help....
Blessings!
3.12.2009
march 12
it's worth repeating that "you'll have to fight to get to your destiny--and fight to hold on to it."
Have you ever come to a time in your life when you have thrown up your arms, heaved a big sigh, and said "Why can't anything be easy?" I sure have. Life can be a struggle at times. Like David, in the devotional today against the Jebusites, we can feel as though we are facing an "uphill" battle.
Especially if God has destined you for greatness, He has anointed you for a purpose, He has set you apart to serve Him, you can expect to face difficulties. If the enemy can get you to throw the towel in before God has positioned you for His Kingdom, then the enemy has won.
Today, don't let the enemy have any strong hold on your God-given destiny. He will try to discourage you today, defeat you today, deflate you today, demean you today, and even destroy you today.
Instead today, find a place of prayer and seek God's instructions for your life! Be reminded of His purpose for You. Stand on His promises!
Go FORWARD today and take hold of what He has for you!!
Blessings!
Have you ever come to a time in your life when you have thrown up your arms, heaved a big sigh, and said "Why can't anything be easy?" I sure have. Life can be a struggle at times. Like David, in the devotional today against the Jebusites, we can feel as though we are facing an "uphill" battle.
Especially if God has destined you for greatness, He has anointed you for a purpose, He has set you apart to serve Him, you can expect to face difficulties. If the enemy can get you to throw the towel in before God has positioned you for His Kingdom, then the enemy has won.
Today, don't let the enemy have any strong hold on your God-given destiny. He will try to discourage you today, defeat you today, deflate you today, demean you today, and even destroy you today.
Instead today, find a place of prayer and seek God's instructions for your life! Be reminded of His purpose for You. Stand on His promises!
Go FORWARD today and take hold of what He has for you!!
Blessings!
3.11.2009
march 11
it's worth repeating that "Promotion comes from God".
Psalm 75:7 says that it is God who brings one down, and who exalts another.
So often in our culture people feel as though they have to promote themselves to get anywhere in life. We have learned that we must BOAST about ourselves for people to notice us. You know what's awesome about God...you don't have to be the BEST in your field, or the WISEST in your age bracket to be promoted in His kingdom. He wants the glory to go to Him so, often, He promotes those who will keep no glory for themselves.
When God promotes you, there may be those around you that don't like it. However, remember God is not only your promoter, He is your defender. You don't have to defend what God is doing in your life, just continue to walk in humility and obedience before Him. He will give you everything you need to get the job done!
When you tell someone, especially family or close friends, that God has called you or promoted you, you may hear the question, "God has called YOU? God has promoted YOU?" Don't be alarmed. It's hard to not take it personally. But whenever we follow God we should expect rejection. Often times family members and close friends know our weaknesses and think there is no way God would promote us or call us. They think we just want to promote ourselves. But the Bible says that the One who has called you is faithful!!!
Maybe God has promoted you or called you and you are feeling some rejection from those who are close to you... Maybe you, yourself, feel unqualified for what He has called you to do...
Just know that He knows what He is doing, and will give you all the grace You need to do what He has asked you to do, so STEP OUT in faith!!
Blessings
Psalm 75:7 says that it is God who brings one down, and who exalts another.
So often in our culture people feel as though they have to promote themselves to get anywhere in life. We have learned that we must BOAST about ourselves for people to notice us. You know what's awesome about God...you don't have to be the BEST in your field, or the WISEST in your age bracket to be promoted in His kingdom. He wants the glory to go to Him so, often, He promotes those who will keep no glory for themselves.
When God promotes you, there may be those around you that don't like it. However, remember God is not only your promoter, He is your defender. You don't have to defend what God is doing in your life, just continue to walk in humility and obedience before Him. He will give you everything you need to get the job done!
When you tell someone, especially family or close friends, that God has called you or promoted you, you may hear the question, "God has called YOU? God has promoted YOU?" Don't be alarmed. It's hard to not take it personally. But whenever we follow God we should expect rejection. Often times family members and close friends know our weaknesses and think there is no way God would promote us or call us. They think we just want to promote ourselves. But the Bible says that the One who has called you is faithful!!!
Maybe God has promoted you or called you and you are feeling some rejection from those who are close to you... Maybe you, yourself, feel unqualified for what He has called you to do...
Just know that He knows what He is doing, and will give you all the grace You need to do what He has asked you to do, so STEP OUT in faith!!
Blessings
3.10.2009
march 10
it's worth repeating that "God trains you in a small sphere so you can handle a bigger one."
When I first became a youth leader at a thriving youth ministry as a college student, I didn't get to teach a class, or preach a message, or lead worship. My first task was to stack the chairs after service was over. I was called to the ministry, yet they had me stacking chairs. Some might walk away saying that their gifts weren't being used. Some might say that there are others who could do this menial task because they are called to bigger and better things. Instead, I just did it.
After I did this task for some time, the youth pastor asked me to help run the youth cafe, so I did it. It was another menial task, but something that NEEDED to be done at the time. So I just did it.
After a few months, the youth pastor called me in his office and asked me to be the lead teacher in a Sunday School class. This was a big deal because there were only a few teachers selected out of close to 80 leaders, so I was honored, but also humbled. But the same God who was with me while I stacked chairs, and worked a cafe, and worked with junior high girls at sleepovers, and talked to 5 students a week on the phone faithfully, was the same God who helped me take on this new opportunity.
Sometimes we want to handle the BIG responsibility right away, but God wants to test us in the smaller spheres of responsibility first. Are you willing to serve in what you consider menial areas in the church, in the home, or at your workplace? If you are faithful with the small things, God will bless you and put you over bigger areas of responsibility!
Blessings!
When I first became a youth leader at a thriving youth ministry as a college student, I didn't get to teach a class, or preach a message, or lead worship. My first task was to stack the chairs after service was over. I was called to the ministry, yet they had me stacking chairs. Some might walk away saying that their gifts weren't being used. Some might say that there are others who could do this menial task because they are called to bigger and better things. Instead, I just did it.
After I did this task for some time, the youth pastor asked me to help run the youth cafe, so I did it. It was another menial task, but something that NEEDED to be done at the time. So I just did it.
After a few months, the youth pastor called me in his office and asked me to be the lead teacher in a Sunday School class. This was a big deal because there were only a few teachers selected out of close to 80 leaders, so I was honored, but also humbled. But the same God who was with me while I stacked chairs, and worked a cafe, and worked with junior high girls at sleepovers, and talked to 5 students a week on the phone faithfully, was the same God who helped me take on this new opportunity.
Sometimes we want to handle the BIG responsibility right away, but God wants to test us in the smaller spheres of responsibility first. Are you willing to serve in what you consider menial areas in the church, in the home, or at your workplace? If you are faithful with the small things, God will bless you and put you over bigger areas of responsibility!
Blessings!
3.09.2009
march 9
it's worth repeating that the story of David is "a testimony to the justice of God that won't allow us to escape our consequences, and to His love that will never let go of us."
Everytime I read the story of David, how he was chosen to be King, how he defeated Goliath, how he fled from Saul, how he never took revenge, how he fell hard with Bathsheba, how he murdered Bathsheba's husband Uriah, how he struggle raising his children, I am reminded of the nature of God, the justice, and also the love.
Some people tend to be more just and less loving...some all loving, and completely unfair. The truth is what sets people free, but love is what helps them to get up and move forward.
God is the perfect balance between truth and grace. It is SO hard to help our kids understand that their actions demand consequences. When I read the story of David and see the consequences he had to suffer because of his actions, part of me says that he deserved it, and part of me says that he asked for forgiveness, so why couldn't the consequences go away. There are consequences for our sins, but the consequence will never be that God will stop loving you--NEVER!
He teaches us the way of righteousness sometimes through the consequences of our decisions, but His love is always there to help us deal with them, not matter how difficult they are.
God loves you, so he disciplines you...He disciplines you because he loves you...
Blessings!
Everytime I read the story of David, how he was chosen to be King, how he defeated Goliath, how he fled from Saul, how he never took revenge, how he fell hard with Bathsheba, how he murdered Bathsheba's husband Uriah, how he struggle raising his children, I am reminded of the nature of God, the justice, and also the love.
Some people tend to be more just and less loving...some all loving, and completely unfair. The truth is what sets people free, but love is what helps them to get up and move forward.
God is the perfect balance between truth and grace. It is SO hard to help our kids understand that their actions demand consequences. When I read the story of David and see the consequences he had to suffer because of his actions, part of me says that he deserved it, and part of me says that he asked for forgiveness, so why couldn't the consequences go away. There are consequences for our sins, but the consequence will never be that God will stop loving you--NEVER!
He teaches us the way of righteousness sometimes through the consequences of our decisions, but His love is always there to help us deal with them, not matter how difficult they are.
God loves you, so he disciplines you...He disciplines you because he loves you...
Blessings!
3.07.2009
march 7
it's worth repeating that "what can seem impossible is often possible with courage."
When I hear great heroic stories about someone beating the odds, keeping going in spite of crazy resistance, or picking up the pieces after conquering a life-altering disease, I get so inspired to keep going in my own life and NEVER give up.
Then a trial comes and knocks me off my feet, and I wonder if I will be able to keep on keeping on.
It's amazing how quickly we can lose courage when a trial comes our way. I love in James 5 where James reminds us of the perseverance of Job. Even James knows that sometimes in order for us to persevere we need to look into the past and be reminded how God has already brought others through!!
With God's help, you can have the courage to face whatever is staring you in the face today and causing you to fear and lose hope!
Would you send me your prayer request and let me know what you are facing so I can be praying with you to be strong and courageous? God is going to see you through...He has promised!
Blessings!
When I hear great heroic stories about someone beating the odds, keeping going in spite of crazy resistance, or picking up the pieces after conquering a life-altering disease, I get so inspired to keep going in my own life and NEVER give up.
Then a trial comes and knocks me off my feet, and I wonder if I will be able to keep on keeping on.
It's amazing how quickly we can lose courage when a trial comes our way. I love in James 5 where James reminds us of the perseverance of Job. Even James knows that sometimes in order for us to persevere we need to look into the past and be reminded how God has already brought others through!!
With God's help, you can have the courage to face whatever is staring you in the face today and causing you to fear and lose hope!
Would you send me your prayer request and let me know what you are facing so I can be praying with you to be strong and courageous? God is going to see you through...He has promised!
Blessings!
3.06.2009
march 6
it's worth repeating that "Jesus doesn't measure you by your past, He measures you by your potential."
I love the glimpse of Jesus's life when He meets the woman at the well. We see His compassion on imperfect, unrighteous, lost, confused people. He doesn't tell the woman she isn't good enough to be in His presence. He doesn't say she is a lost cause. He simply gets her to a place where she is so thirsty for change in her life that she receives Jesus for who He is, and she leaves that well a different woman than when she came.
The story doesn't end there, though. Thanks be to God!! When she left, she didn't go back to her past. She didn't allow her past to keep her from the potential she now had to reach others for Jesus Christ. Do you think she thought that maybe she wasn't qualified or righteous enough to be a witness for Jesus? Probably. Do you think that there were some who talked about her behind her back and it caused her hurt and pain? Maybe. But we see later in the passage that many Samaritans came to know Jesus because of THIS woman, with an imperfect past, with 5 failed marriages, with a past that we wouldn't let our kids see on television.
If the enemy can still keep you trapped in the prison of your past, then you WILL not, CAN not be effective to reach others for Christ. Thanks be to Jesus Christ..your past is redeemed!! Now all that is left is this great potential you have to reach others who feel unqualified, unrighteous, imperfect, and not worthy to approach Jesus. Your sinful past connects you to a sinful world that also needs Jesus!
Don't let your past cripple your potential!!
Blessings!
I love the glimpse of Jesus's life when He meets the woman at the well. We see His compassion on imperfect, unrighteous, lost, confused people. He doesn't tell the woman she isn't good enough to be in His presence. He doesn't say she is a lost cause. He simply gets her to a place where she is so thirsty for change in her life that she receives Jesus for who He is, and she leaves that well a different woman than when she came.
The story doesn't end there, though. Thanks be to God!! When she left, she didn't go back to her past. She didn't allow her past to keep her from the potential she now had to reach others for Jesus Christ. Do you think she thought that maybe she wasn't qualified or righteous enough to be a witness for Jesus? Probably. Do you think that there were some who talked about her behind her back and it caused her hurt and pain? Maybe. But we see later in the passage that many Samaritans came to know Jesus because of THIS woman, with an imperfect past, with 5 failed marriages, with a past that we wouldn't let our kids see on television.
If the enemy can still keep you trapped in the prison of your past, then you WILL not, CAN not be effective to reach others for Christ. Thanks be to Jesus Christ..your past is redeemed!! Now all that is left is this great potential you have to reach others who feel unqualified, unrighteous, imperfect, and not worthy to approach Jesus. Your sinful past connects you to a sinful world that also needs Jesus!
Don't let your past cripple your potential!!
Blessings!
3.05.2009
march 5
it's worth repeating that "you can't fight spiritual battles with carnal weapons and hope to win."
I heard a preacher once say that the moment you ask Jesus to take over your life, you have put a target on your back and invited the enemy's attacks. He doesn't want you to serve God--not one day! Do you know what you're up against?
When we treat spiritual problems with physical remedies..we get nowhere.. When we just try harder, think more positively, we can only go so far. We can only defeat the enemy with the weapons God has equipped us with, and then become mighty through prayer.
Are you facing a stronghold in your life? Is there a battle you haven't been able to get the victory over?? Confront that area in the NAME OF JESUS! Don't let it exist in your life anymore!!
Jesus paid the price for you to have the victory!
Blessings!
I heard a preacher once say that the moment you ask Jesus to take over your life, you have put a target on your back and invited the enemy's attacks. He doesn't want you to serve God--not one day! Do you know what you're up against?
When we treat spiritual problems with physical remedies..we get nowhere.. When we just try harder, think more positively, we can only go so far. We can only defeat the enemy with the weapons God has equipped us with, and then become mighty through prayer.
Are you facing a stronghold in your life? Is there a battle you haven't been able to get the victory over?? Confront that area in the NAME OF JESUS! Don't let it exist in your life anymore!!
Jesus paid the price for you to have the victory!
Blessings!
3.04.2009
march 4
it's worth repeating that "the world gets turned off by people who have Christian bumper stickers..., Christian peace signs..., Christian books..., Christian stations on their radio and TV, Christian jewelry..., etc... but who don't have the life of Jesus in their bones or the love of Jesus in their hearts."
Have you ever been disillusioned before by having a picture in your mind of what someone SHOULD be like and then meeting them in person and seeing what they are REALLY like? Disappointing, at the least. I once met a nationally renowned youth speaker who loved the spotlight but didn't really like youth or people. Just the hype. Made me question if everything the person said was real or just a show.
Let's be honest for a second. We have all had moments of weakness when we let our flesh shine instead of letting our light shine.
One of the most challenging verses in all the Bible for me is "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." Wow!! There have been many times my attitude has been more like Oscar the Grouch. OR Eeyore. OR the really whiney girl from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I have not been a shining light for Jesus the way I should.
Lord, help us, the Church, to be your light to this world. Don't let our attitudes, desires, emotions, and feelings keep us from pointing the world to You. We repent of just putting on a show and not having you be in control of our entire heart and soul. Help our good deeds cause this world to praise You.
Blessings!
3.03.2009
march 3
it's worth repeating that "among many Christians today there's a strange logic suggesting that spiritual resource and renewal are found in constantly seeking new voices, attending more meetings, listening to incessant music, and gathering to exchange half-thought-out opinions..."
Have you ever been overstimulated before? I know my children have. WHen they were little babies, and someone was in their face talking to them, and their was loud noise in the background, and the lights were bright in the room, and the person talking to them was wearing an extremely bright shirt with sequins on it... you get the idea. They just started to cry...and wanted some peace and quiet.
I have had overstimulating days of phone calls, emails, text messaging, music practices, children screaming through the house, TV noise or music in the background, a to-do list a mile long, and laundry piling up around me... it can all get crazy!
I have learned to love silence and solitude. I used to just get bored and not really know what to do when I was alone, but now I love the stillness of a quiet room, or an expanse in the outdoors, or an early morning or late night when everything is quiet and at rest. I realized a few years ago that I not only like "alone" times, but I desperately NEED them, to be renewed and reminded of God's love and sovereignty in my life. I NEED Him to speak to me. I NEED to meditate on His Word.
Sometimes we have have to stop, really stop...and just listen, meditate, and sit with our Savior to really understand His heart for us...
So, pencil Jesus in today... you won't be sorry you did!!
Blessings!
Have you ever been overstimulated before? I know my children have. WHen they were little babies, and someone was in their face talking to them, and their was loud noise in the background, and the lights were bright in the room, and the person talking to them was wearing an extremely bright shirt with sequins on it... you get the idea. They just started to cry...and wanted some peace and quiet.
I have had overstimulating days of phone calls, emails, text messaging, music practices, children screaming through the house, TV noise or music in the background, a to-do list a mile long, and laundry piling up around me... it can all get crazy!
I have learned to love silence and solitude. I used to just get bored and not really know what to do when I was alone, but now I love the stillness of a quiet room, or an expanse in the outdoors, or an early morning or late night when everything is quiet and at rest. I realized a few years ago that I not only like "alone" times, but I desperately NEED them, to be renewed and reminded of God's love and sovereignty in my life. I NEED Him to speak to me. I NEED to meditate on His Word.
Sometimes we have have to stop, really stop...and just listen, meditate, and sit with our Savior to really understand His heart for us...
So, pencil Jesus in today... you won't be sorry you did!!
Blessings!
3.02.2009
march 2
it's worth repeating that you can't base your worth on the opinions of those who put you down...
there was a time in my life that i struggled with "approval addiction". Instead of focusing on who God had made me, and what He had asked me to do, and His favor in my life, I became wrapped up, and eventually "entangled" in, other's opinions of me. I would lay in bed at night and think about what so-and-so said, and why. I would work extra hard to show that person that I was a nice, good, hard-working, knowledgeable person. Most of the time their opinion didn't change, but I became burned out and disillusioned from trying so hard to be ME.
God has called us to see ourselves in His light and through Jesus. If we get tripped up by every negative word, we will never be able to walk straight in the path God has made for our lives.
On a side note, we should open ourselves up to accountability, but this should be with people we trust who speak to us with a motive of love...
Is the opinion of others about you sucking the life out of your day?? your work?? your dreams?? Are you spending your energies trying to please God with your life, marriage, work...or making others happy. When we live for God, and walk in His way, people will not always "like" us, but we must still serve Christ!!
Blessings!
there was a time in my life that i struggled with "approval addiction". Instead of focusing on who God had made me, and what He had asked me to do, and His favor in my life, I became wrapped up, and eventually "entangled" in, other's opinions of me. I would lay in bed at night and think about what so-and-so said, and why. I would work extra hard to show that person that I was a nice, good, hard-working, knowledgeable person. Most of the time their opinion didn't change, but I became burned out and disillusioned from trying so hard to be ME.
God has called us to see ourselves in His light and through Jesus. If we get tripped up by every negative word, we will never be able to walk straight in the path God has made for our lives.
On a side note, we should open ourselves up to accountability, but this should be with people we trust who speak to us with a motive of love...
Is the opinion of others about you sucking the life out of your day?? your work?? your dreams?? Are you spending your energies trying to please God with your life, marriage, work...or making others happy. When we live for God, and walk in His way, people will not always "like" us, but we must still serve Christ!!
Blessings!
3.01.2009
march 1
it's worth repeating that we should not be led by our wounded egos, but but be led by God's Word..
Ouch!! That one stings a little. I have really been upset about something before..hurt by someone's words... and wanted to lash right back out. Let them know I'm mad. Make them feel my pain. God's Word doesn't give any place for revenge, backlashing, or bad-mouthing. Instead it calls me to humble myself and forgive...
There have been people that I have hurt... with my actions or words, and I have been called on it. In my "forced" humility, I have had to make a choice whether I was going to defend my "rightness" or live by God's righteousness. Not easy. Not natural.
Lord, help me to be a forgiver, and to also humble myself to ask for forgiveness when necessary... don't let my ego get in the way of Your Holy Spirit...
How has the Lord spoken to you today through His Word?
Did God do anything special in your life today during our church service?
Let me know.... Tell me everything... Don't leave out any details...
Blessings!
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