First of all,let me say that I was really blessed by Ladies Bible Class today. We were camping out in Psalm 125. I dawned on me that I have never considered myself a strong mountain that cannot be shaken. I pray that I will not forget when times are hard what was again convicted in my heart today "God is good, All The Time!".
Now as promised yesterday, here is the rest of the article about scripture memorization that gave me some things to think about.
John Piper
"First, a few testimonies: I have it third hand, that Dr. Howard Hendricks (of Dallas Seminary) once made the statement (and I paraphrase) that if it were his decision, every student graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary would be required to learn one thousand verses word perfect before they graduated.
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, "Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That's where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization" ("Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person" in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
Chuck Swindoll wrote, "I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified" (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).
One of the reasons Martin Luther came to his great discovery in the Bible of justification by faith alone was that in his early years in the Augustinian monastery he was influenced to love Scripture by Johann Staupitz. Luther devoured the Bible in a day when people earned doctorates in theology without even reading the Bible. Luther said that his fellow professor, Andreas Karlstadt, did not even own a Bible when he earned his doctor of theology degree, nor did he until many years later (www.orlutheran.com/html/luthbibl.html). Luther knew so much of the Bible from memory that when the Lord opened his eyes to see the truth of justification in Romans 1:17, he said, "Thereupon I ran through the Scriptures from memory," in order to confirm what he had found.
So here are a few reasons why so many have viewed Scripture memorization as so essential to the Christian life.
1. Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that "we all... beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another." If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see him. This happens in the word. "The LORD revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the wordof the LORD" (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus to be steadier and clearer.
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:9, 11). Paul said that we must "by the Spirit... put to death the [sinful] deeds of the body" (Romans 8:13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the "sword of the Spirit," which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1-11).
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25:11 says, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver." That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God's love can draw on the mind full of God's word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God's holiness/law/glory; 2) man's sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ's death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
The way we commune with (that is, fellowship with) God is by meditating on his attributes and expressing to him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking his help in living a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to him as he really is. For example, imagine being able to call this to mind through the day:
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:8-14)
I used the word "enjoyment" intentionally when I said, "communion with God in the enjoyment of his person and ways." Most of us are emotionally crippled -- all of us really. We do not experience God in the fullness of our emotional potential. How will that change? One way is to memorize the emotional expressions of the Bible and speak them to the Lord and to each other until they become part of who we are. For example, in Psalm 103:1, we say, "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!" That is not a natural expression for many people. But if we memorize this and other emotional expressions from the Bible, and say them often, asking the Lord to make the emotion real in our hearts, we can actually grow into that emotion and expression. It will become part of who we are. We will be less crippled emotionally and more able to render proper praise and thanks to God."
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Scripture Memorization
I don't know about you, but the older I get the harder it seems for me to remember scripture. I don't think I have ever been very intentional about memorizing scripture for very long periods of time. I have come to realize over the past few years, how important scripture memory is. When you need to be assured of God's promises, there is nothing better than being able to remind yourself of the ones you know. For Ladies Bible Class we are suppose to be memorizing Psalm 121. I have about half of it memorized, but am having trouble putting the 2nd half together with it. But memorizing the first part is already blessing my soul.
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Today in my Bible study for Ladies Bible class Beth Moore made this statement about memorization, "scripture memory is like a spiritual bone marrow transplant." (see Hebrews 4:12) Wow! that really spoke to me, and reminded me of an email I had kept in my inbox from July 7th on a article by Don Piper about Scripture memorization. In that article he made six points which I will post tomorrow so as not to make this post so long, so tune back tomorrow.
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Today in my Bible study for Ladies Bible class Beth Moore made this statement about memorization, "scripture memory is like a spiritual bone marrow transplant." (see Hebrews 4:12) Wow! that really spoke to me, and reminded me of an email I had kept in my inbox from July 7th on a article by Don Piper about Scripture memorization. In that article he made six points which I will post tomorrow so as not to make this post so long, so tune back tomorrow.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Fall Envy
I know that we are not suppose to envy, but my brother Brent sent these pictures and I am envious of the turning of the Aspens in Colorado and that they are having to wear jackets! The girl is my brother's grandaughter Alyvia (the apple of her Grandy's eye)
I remember the few years I lived in Springhill, Tennessee and after being born and raised in El Paso, where we never had Fall, how mesmerized I was with the beautiful colors of red, orange and brown. One day I would love to go on a fall foilage tour.
Hey, those fall pictures really look pretty on the fall background of my blog :)
I remember the few years I lived in Springhill, Tennessee and after being born and raised in El Paso, where we never had Fall, how mesmerized I was with the beautiful colors of red, orange and brown. One day I would love to go on a fall foilage tour.
Hey, those fall pictures really look pretty on the fall background of my blog :)
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Sunday Snippets
I usually wait till the end of the day on Sunday to post in order to include all the things that God might do, including Life Group. But since Steve and I are
"in" for the night, I thought I would go ahead and post now. First of all, let me mention that I rented the "Last Sin Eater" from Netflix and we watched it last night. Michael Landon Jr. is the director and it is based on Francine River's book. It is a wonderful story of redemption and forgiveness and I recommend you rent it, with this caution, turn on the subtitles as the Irish brogue is difficult to understand.
I taught the 5th grade this morning. I really love this age. They are at such a critical point in their faith walk. It is fun taking the stories they are so familiar with and seeing if you can get them to apply the principles on a deeper level. So today it was Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
I have to be confessional and admit that I did not pay too much attention to the sermon today because I was enjoying being distracted by Haven Heflin. She was just so precious and kept smiling at me, so how could I not smile back. Then it came time for a bottle and her grandmother began feeding her. I was taken back by the love that oozed out of Cherie for her granddaughter, you could just see her face radiate as she stroked Haven's hair, and then she rubbed her toes and then picked them up and kissed them. I got tears in my eyes as I thought about "this is how much God loves me". The fact that I saw Cherie's delight in Haven and immediately knew that is the way God delights in me. It was a special moment.
During communion there were two grade school boys sitting behind me and I heard one say to the other "did that scare the crap out of you", don't know what was said next, but then I heard again "that would have scared the c**** out of me". So what would you have done? Easiest thing, just ignore it. Harder thing? After the last amen I just said "which one of you said c***", of course they both denied it until I said this is what I heard one of you say and then one boy said "that was me". I just said "c*** is not a very nice word to use anytime, but especially not a good word to be using during communion where people are thinking about Jesus' sacrifice for them. Just wanted you to think about that." Then I hugged them both. Don't know if confronting them was the right thing, it wasn't so much what they said but when they were saying it that I wanted them to think about.
"in" for the night, I thought I would go ahead and post now. First of all, let me mention that I rented the "Last Sin Eater" from Netflix and we watched it last night. Michael Landon Jr. is the director and it is based on Francine River's book. It is a wonderful story of redemption and forgiveness and I recommend you rent it, with this caution, turn on the subtitles as the Irish brogue is difficult to understand.
I taught the 5th grade this morning. I really love this age. They are at such a critical point in their faith walk. It is fun taking the stories they are so familiar with and seeing if you can get them to apply the principles on a deeper level. So today it was Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
I have to be confessional and admit that I did not pay too much attention to the sermon today because I was enjoying being distracted by Haven Heflin. She was just so precious and kept smiling at me, so how could I not smile back. Then it came time for a bottle and her grandmother began feeding her. I was taken back by the love that oozed out of Cherie for her granddaughter, you could just see her face radiate as she stroked Haven's hair, and then she rubbed her toes and then picked them up and kissed them. I got tears in my eyes as I thought about "this is how much God loves me". The fact that I saw Cherie's delight in Haven and immediately knew that is the way God delights in me. It was a special moment.
During communion there were two grade school boys sitting behind me and I heard one say to the other "did that scare the crap out of you", don't know what was said next, but then I heard again "that would have scared the c**** out of me". So what would you have done? Easiest thing, just ignore it. Harder thing? After the last amen I just said "which one of you said c***", of course they both denied it until I said this is what I heard one of you say and then one boy said "that was me". I just said "c*** is not a very nice word to use anytime, but especially not a good word to be using during communion where people are thinking about Jesus' sacrifice for them. Just wanted you to think about that." Then I hugged them both. Don't know if confronting them was the right thing, it wasn't so much what they said but when they were saying it that I wanted them to think about.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Fireproof Your Marriage
Yesterday, Steve and I went to see the new movie Fireproof. It is from the same company that made Facing The Giants. While I don't think it will have the same universal appeal it was a good movie with a good message. It did show that God is able to restore any relationship if we just surrender and give Him control (in this case it was a marriage of a firefighter). Both Steve and I thought Kirk Cameron did a good job in the lead role. We were both impressed to read that Kirk refuses to kiss anyone but his wife (even in a movie)so they were able to use her as a body double. Isn't' it refreshing to know that someone will actually go against the flow and stand up for their own values?
I am impressed with the Sherwood Baptist church for continuing to try to share the message of Christ through movies. They don't just make the movie, get the money and go on, they actually create ministry around the movie. Go to www.fireproofyourmarriage.com and see all the resources that they have to help people manage the waters of marriage.
I loved that the main message of this movie was that we are able to love others with the love they don't deserve because we are loved with a love we don't deserve. Do I hear an amen?
So grab your spouse and go see this movie, I can guarantee that you will leave being more in love with each other and with a renewed spirit.
Before I close I just want to mention to that it was sad to hear that Paul Newman lost his fight with cancer. He and Joann were married 50 years, which is just an amazing fete in Hollywood! I am sure she is really missing her life partner.
I am impressed with the Sherwood Baptist church for continuing to try to share the message of Christ through movies. They don't just make the movie, get the money and go on, they actually create ministry around the movie. Go to www.fireproofyourmarriage.com and see all the resources that they have to help people manage the waters of marriage.
I loved that the main message of this movie was that we are able to love others with the love they don't deserve because we are loved with a love we don't deserve. Do I hear an amen?
So grab your spouse and go see this movie, I can guarantee that you will leave being more in love with each other and with a renewed spirit.
Before I close I just want to mention to that it was sad to hear that Paul Newman lost his fight with cancer. He and Joann were married 50 years, which is just an amazing fete in Hollywood! I am sure she is really missing her life partner.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Another Reveal
I am going out on a limb in making another post about homosexuality. A couple of weeks ago when I did this, some people took issue with my remarks and some agreed. I am not seeking to have people agree with me and I respect every one's opinions. I do think whatever our views, we need to present them in Christlike language and intent, and not an attack mode. I was recently reading a well known preacher's blog and the topic was politics. I could not believe the way that Christians were treating one another, over 200 people responded and most were not kind. We all have opinions and it is as it should be, but we must be able to state them in a way that honors God and shows love to one another. That being said, I am saddened once again, this time for Clay Aiken to publicly admit that he is a homosexual. I know we suspected it because he has always been evasive, but I for one held out hope that it was not so.
First of all let me ask why it is that "gay" is the common term we use now for homosexuality? I personally think it is to help sanitize it. So what new terms can we come up with for a murderer, an adulterer, a liar, a thief? As I said in my earlier post our call is to love all sinners, but it does not mean we are accepting of the sin.
I Cor 6:8-10 "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." God makes it pretty clear I think.
I have to be honest and admit I struggle with people I have liked who claim to be homosexual. I actually like Ellen's show and enjoy her humor. I know she is generous with her monies. I went to Clay's concert when he came to Dallas because I enjoy his voice and his music. There are other homosexuals that I have enjoyed their acting, singing, or whatever. If I go ahead and watch their shows, movies or listen to their music is that okay? I just asked Steve this a couple of days ago. How about movies or T.V. shows where heterosexuals portray homosexual characters? Should I be watching those?
Here is what Paul says:
I Corinthians 5:8-12 "I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people-not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. Expel the wicked man from among you."
I think the verses are saying it is going to be hard for us to get away from associating with homosexuals as long as we live in this world. However, if someone is claiming to be a brother or sister in Christ and is claiming to be sexually immoral then we are to not associate with that person. Thus, I don't think you can claim as Clay does to be a "born again Christian" and be a homosexual. There are over 15 different scriptures about sexual immorality. Would you define immorality as just relations before marriage or outside of marriage? I don't think so. Read Leviticus 18, one scripture after another about sexual immorality: fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, men and women with animals, son-in-laws with mother-in- laws, siblings, sister-in-laws, brothers-in-laws and on and on it goes. So if homosexuality is okay, where do we draw the line with all these others?
Another problem I have with Clay Aiken is that he had a child with his 50 year old manager. Granted they are saying it was through invitro but if this lady is his best friend and who he wants to be the mother of his child, and they will share living quarters, does it make sense to anyone else why they could not be married and just not have sexual relations?? Can homosexuals remain celibate?
I don't have all the answers just continue to question to how we got to this place?
What is my responsibility as a follower of Christ? I continue to beseech God to show me His way.
First of all let me ask why it is that "gay" is the common term we use now for homosexuality? I personally think it is to help sanitize it. So what new terms can we come up with for a murderer, an adulterer, a liar, a thief? As I said in my earlier post our call is to love all sinners, but it does not mean we are accepting of the sin.
I Cor 6:8-10 "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." God makes it pretty clear I think.
I have to be honest and admit I struggle with people I have liked who claim to be homosexual. I actually like Ellen's show and enjoy her humor. I know she is generous with her monies. I went to Clay's concert when he came to Dallas because I enjoy his voice and his music. There are other homosexuals that I have enjoyed their acting, singing, or whatever. If I go ahead and watch their shows, movies or listen to their music is that okay? I just asked Steve this a couple of days ago. How about movies or T.V. shows where heterosexuals portray homosexual characters? Should I be watching those?
Here is what Paul says:
I Corinthians 5:8-12 "I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people-not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. Expel the wicked man from among you."
I think the verses are saying it is going to be hard for us to get away from associating with homosexuals as long as we live in this world. However, if someone is claiming to be a brother or sister in Christ and is claiming to be sexually immoral then we are to not associate with that person. Thus, I don't think you can claim as Clay does to be a "born again Christian" and be a homosexual. There are over 15 different scriptures about sexual immorality. Would you define immorality as just relations before marriage or outside of marriage? I don't think so. Read Leviticus 18, one scripture after another about sexual immorality: fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, men and women with animals, son-in-laws with mother-in- laws, siblings, sister-in-laws, brothers-in-laws and on and on it goes. So if homosexuality is okay, where do we draw the line with all these others?
Another problem I have with Clay Aiken is that he had a child with his 50 year old manager. Granted they are saying it was through invitro but if this lady is his best friend and who he wants to be the mother of his child, and they will share living quarters, does it make sense to anyone else why they could not be married and just not have sexual relations?? Can homosexuals remain celibate?
I don't have all the answers just continue to question to how we got to this place?
What is my responsibility as a follower of Christ? I continue to beseech God to show me His way.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Purify My Heart
Today Steve and I were working out in the yard, He was putting in new lights in the flowerbeds and I was painting shutters. I was listening to my Ipod while I was painting and as I heard the song below, I could not think about the way the new coat of paint was making the shutters look and just as they would have a new look, that is what Jesus can do to my heart day after day, if I just surrender to Him.
I particularly could not help but think what my life would look like if the joy of my salvation was retored in my heart. Do you remember when you were first saved and the joy you had? I think along the journey I have taken that joy and my salvation for granted, and I am in need of restoration. I am thankful for my loving God who does not just wash me clean once, but promises that the blood of His son will continually cleanse me from all my sin.
Put a new right spirit here within me
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Restore the joy of your salvation
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Wash me Lord and I will be clean.
Have mercy on me Lord according to your love
Take every sin and fault away from me
Longing to be whole again
Sanctify my soul again and I will be free
Against I have I done what is evil in your sight
You would be so right to cast me out
But let these wretched bones walk in steps of holy hope
Return me to you now
I will teach your ways of deliverance
to hearts yearning for true love
My tongue will ever praise your presence,
present to me now
If you want you can listen to the song by David Kauffman here:(sorry in this new layout I cannot figure out why links don't work, so you will have to copy and paste in your browser)
www.imeem.com/groups/wKXTlObH/music/eMDn4mE-/david_kauffman_purify_my_heart/
I particularly could not help but think what my life would look like if the joy of my salvation was retored in my heart. Do you remember when you were first saved and the joy you had? I think along the journey I have taken that joy and my salvation for granted, and I am in need of restoration. I am thankful for my loving God who does not just wash me clean once, but promises that the blood of His son will continually cleanse me from all my sin.
Put a new right spirit here within me
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Restore the joy of your salvation
Purify my heart, purify my heart
Wash me Lord and I will be clean.
Have mercy on me Lord according to your love
Take every sin and fault away from me
Longing to be whole again
Sanctify my soul again and I will be free
Against I have I done what is evil in your sight
You would be so right to cast me out
But let these wretched bones walk in steps of holy hope
Return me to you now
I will teach your ways of deliverance
to hearts yearning for true love
My tongue will ever praise your presence,
present to me now
If you want you can listen to the song by David Kauffman here:(sorry in this new layout I cannot figure out why links don't work, so you will have to copy and paste in your browser)
www.imeem.com/groups/wKXTlObH/music/eMDn4mE-/david_kauffman_purify_my_heart/
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
CAREcorp
Our church has a ministry called CAREcorp that offers help to those in need. We help with rent, utilities, etc. and give bags of food. You listen to so many sad stories of where people are in life. Today I took a phone call from a 67 year old lady that sounded desperate because they were going to turn off her electricity but we were not able to help her because she did not live in a zipcode that we service.
I always come home from CAREcorp depressed that I do not personally have the finances to help the people that come. When you know there are so many millionaires that just one of their millions would go so far in helping some of these people. The most the church gives them is $150.00. Sometimes that is enough to get them out of the bind, but most times it is just a drop in the bucket. I always have this struggle between compassion and judgement. Today, when a client's electricity bill was $954.00, I wanted to ask if she had thought of turning her air up and trying a few fans? Then on the other extreme we had a lady that was trying to get money for her October rent and had canceled her cell phone in order to have some extra money. If you think about praying for her, she has two job interviews this week.
I know the Bible tells us there will always be poor. Deuteronomy 15:11
"There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."
Matthew 26:11
"The poor you will always have with you."
I can only assume that those verse are true because those of us that have more are not willing to share enough. So many people tithe thinking they have done their share, but God never meant for the tithe to be the standard of giving. It was the minimal to give.
The food pantry at RE is really low. I hope that those of you that are reading this who can will help fill it. It is hard to apologize to people who come to us for help telling them we don't have much food. We could use all kinds of soup and boxed dinners and tuna(there is quite a bit of canned vegetables and fruit)
Too, please pray that the Lord will open all of our eyes to the needs of the poor and our hearts to the sacrifices we might need to make to help their lives be better.
Proverbs 21:13
If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.
I always come home from CAREcorp depressed that I do not personally have the finances to help the people that come. When you know there are so many millionaires that just one of their millions would go so far in helping some of these people. The most the church gives them is $150.00. Sometimes that is enough to get them out of the bind, but most times it is just a drop in the bucket. I always have this struggle between compassion and judgement. Today, when a client's electricity bill was $954.00, I wanted to ask if she had thought of turning her air up and trying a few fans? Then on the other extreme we had a lady that was trying to get money for her October rent and had canceled her cell phone in order to have some extra money. If you think about praying for her, she has two job interviews this week.
I know the Bible tells us there will always be poor. Deuteronomy 15:11
"There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land."
Matthew 26:11
"The poor you will always have with you."
I can only assume that those verse are true because those of us that have more are not willing to share enough. So many people tithe thinking they have done their share, but God never meant for the tithe to be the standard of giving. It was the minimal to give.
The food pantry at RE is really low. I hope that those of you that are reading this who can will help fill it. It is hard to apologize to people who come to us for help telling them we don't have much food. We could use all kinds of soup and boxed dinners and tuna(there is quite a bit of canned vegetables and fruit)
Too, please pray that the Lord will open all of our eyes to the needs of the poor and our hearts to the sacrifices we might need to make to help their lives be better.
Proverbs 21:13
If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.
Monday, September 22, 2008
New Daniel Insights
In today's daily Bible reading I saw something I don't remember seeing before. I feel silly saying that as I bet you all will say "I knew that" but I don't remember seeing before the King Darius did not want to put Daniel in the Lion's Den. But guess he had to because he made the decree. What I didn't know is that he trusted that the God of Daniel would keep Daniel safe. Then he was not able to eat or sleep because of his worry for Daniel. He then went very early in the morning and called out to Daniel, "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God that you serve continually been able to rescue you from the lions?" When Daniel replied and told him an angel had shut the mouth of the lions he was overjoyed. He then made this decree:
"In every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdome will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He resuces and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions."
Unfortunately, Darius' devotion was very short lived and the people did not worship God. Made me take inventory of how short lived my own affections are some times. God shows up and does something amazing and how soon do I forget?
"In every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdome will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He resuces and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions."
Unfortunately, Darius' devotion was very short lived and the people did not worship God. Made me take inventory of how short lived my own affections are some times. God shows up and does something amazing and how soon do I forget?
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Sunday Snippets
One of my best blessings of being on staff at Richardson East was getting to work side by side with Kerry Miller. Kerry was a great mentor. He held me accountable and helped me to strive for excellence in ministry. I have missed him and today it was a blessing to get to have lunch with him and just catch up on life. I am thankful that the Lord is blessing he and Pam in Malibu.
I went back into the 5th grade classroom this morning and will be co-teaching in there for a while. It is no secret that I love hugs and I am blessed to get a lot of them, but none ever warm my heart more than one from a 5th grade boy because it is just not cool at that age. But thankyou Aaron Troutt for that great unsolicited hug today. It made my day.
Today was the first time in a while I connected with worship, it is hard not to when all you are doing is singing about God's holiness.
John had a good sermon but don't know that there were any "aha" moments for me, just good reminders that we are the reflection of Christ and most times all non-christians will know about Christianity is what they know of me. It was special getting to hear Jordan and Emily Swim speak about their time in Thailand and Peru this summer and the ways they encountered God's presence.
Was looking forward to having a discussion on demons at Life Group tonight, but the person that brought up the question last week was not there so we tabled it until they can be there.
Last night we enjoyed an authentic Honduran meal as a fundraiser for the mission trip next summer. It was very spicy but good. I had never had Tres Leches cake...yummm.
Ran into Kent Hill at the resturant today, he was in town from Colorado and it was good to see him. He was sweet and told me to keep blogging. It does help from time to time to know that people don't think I just babble on and on :)
Everyone have a blessed week! Yea! Tomorrow starts my favorite season of the year!
I went back into the 5th grade classroom this morning and will be co-teaching in there for a while. It is no secret that I love hugs and I am blessed to get a lot of them, but none ever warm my heart more than one from a 5th grade boy because it is just not cool at that age. But thankyou Aaron Troutt for that great unsolicited hug today. It made my day.
Today was the first time in a while I connected with worship, it is hard not to when all you are doing is singing about God's holiness.
John had a good sermon but don't know that there were any "aha" moments for me, just good reminders that we are the reflection of Christ and most times all non-christians will know about Christianity is what they know of me. It was special getting to hear Jordan and Emily Swim speak about their time in Thailand and Peru this summer and the ways they encountered God's presence.
Was looking forward to having a discussion on demons at Life Group tonight, but the person that brought up the question last week was not there so we tabled it until they can be there.
Last night we enjoyed an authentic Honduran meal as a fundraiser for the mission trip next summer. It was very spicy but good. I had never had Tres Leches cake...yummm.
Ran into Kent Hill at the resturant today, he was in town from Colorado and it was good to see him. He was sweet and told me to keep blogging. It does help from time to time to know that people don't think I just babble on and on :)
Everyone have a blessed week! Yea! Tomorrow starts my favorite season of the year!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Favorite Movies
Today I got to watch one of my favorite movies AGAIN, Everafter. I just love this movie. I don't know how many times this makes that I have watched this movie. Why is it when we really like a movie we can watch it over and over and never get tired of it?
So...I would love to have a bunch of comments to this post and for you to tell me what your favorite movie is and why.
On the subject of movies I have four codes for anyone to try NETFLIX free for a month. They are good until October 31st. If you sign up using one of the codes, I get an extra movie free. I really like NETFLIX because it is so easy. I only use the $9.95 plan and get one movie at a time but when I mail it back it only takes two days to get the next one in my queue. Here are the codes if you are interested. Just go to www.netflix.com/tellafriend and use one of these codes:
M34960392355
M64290592595
M4220592285
M34230592685
So...I would love to have a bunch of comments to this post and for you to tell me what your favorite movie is and why.
On the subject of movies I have four codes for anyone to try NETFLIX free for a month. They are good until October 31st. If you sign up using one of the codes, I get an extra movie free. I really like NETFLIX because it is so easy. I only use the $9.95 plan and get one movie at a time but when I mail it back it only takes two days to get the next one in my queue. Here are the codes if you are interested. Just go to www.netflix.com/tellafriend and use one of these codes:
M34960392355
M64290592595
M4220592285
M34230592685
Friday, September 19, 2008
Amazing Singer
I really enjoy amazing musical talent. I am really enjoying Donald Braswell on America's Got Talent. I like his voice and his humility. This week on Oprah there was a 16 year old girl named Charice that was just amazing. She then was invited to sing a duet with Celine Dion at Madison Square Garden, they showed it on Oprah today, but thanks to Youtube, if you missed Oprah you can listen to her here:
Then, in looking on Youtube I found her singing with Andrea Bocelli one of my favorite songs The Prayer.
Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend!!
Then, in looking on Youtube I found her singing with Andrea Bocelli one of my favorite songs The Prayer.
Hope everyone has a GREAT weekend!!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Reader's Digest
Every month I look forward to getting our new issue of Reader's Digest. I like the humorous stories but I also really like the articles because they are about ordinary people just like me. Today I read an article about a guy name Chip Paillex who started out seven years ago by planting a garden on a 30-by-30 plot. he planted tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers and eggplant--enough to feed his family of four, but he ended up with so much, he could not even give it away. But he found a local food pantry and by the time he delivered his last harvest, he had donated 120 pounds of fresh vegetables. The following year, with a handful of volunteers from his church,and some donated land he harvested 1,500 pounds of vegetables he donated to food banks. This year he had close to 1,000 volunteers and found some farmers to donated land. His church families would volunteer and a couple families would take one week and tend to the garden, weeding, watering, pruning and delivering the vegetables. It grew to 250,000 lbs of donated vegetables. Now a 3rd and 4th grade class is volunteering in the garden and planting seeds. Paillex stated "the program exposes kids to the idea that there are people in need and it plants the seed for giving back."
I just thought this was a great story of how God gives the increase, and how others were blessed not by just getting to eat fresh vegetables, but by actually working in the garden. Made me wish I had room for a garden in my backyard.
I just thought this was a great story of how God gives the increase, and how others were blessed not by just getting to eat fresh vegetables, but by actually working in the garden. Made me wish I had room for a garden in my backyard.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Hurricane Evacuees
Today I was blessed to buy some hygiene items to take to some Hurricane evacuees. We got an email yesterday that the evacuees at the Samuel Grand Shelter did not have shower facilities and needed some hygiene items. Our church wanted to respond, so my friend Terry and I went to the Dollar Tree and stocked up on many items lik wipes, toothpaste, deoderant, lotion, hand sanitizer, etc. When we got to the shelter we were told that they were transfering the last of the people to the Dallas Convention Center and that if we wanted to we could take the items there. I decided since there were 1400 people at the convention center and we had bought quantities of 100 that it might not be that helpful, so I made a call to the Huffines Recreation Center here in Richardson and asked if they still had evacuees and if so could they use the items. They said yes, they still had 110 people. So it was nice to be able to help out right here in our neighborhood.
It as something to see people just sitting on cots. Can you imagine 24/7 being confined in one room with 100 other people with your personal space being a cot? I told Steve (who also went with us) when we left that I can't imagine being in their shoes and not having family or friends that could take them in instead of having to go to a shelter. Then, I couldn't help but wonder how do you pass the time all day?
The staff that were there helping to take care of these people were very kind. Local restuarants are catering in the food. Tonight someone was giving them a bar-b-que.
So after you read this post, please say a prayer for those that are still dislocated. It must be hard enough not to know the state of your home or when or if you might return. But life in the shelter cannot be optimal. I do think the people at Huffines are blessed to be where there are only 100 of them than down at the Convention Center with 1400 others.
It as something to see people just sitting on cots. Can you imagine 24/7 being confined in one room with 100 other people with your personal space being a cot? I told Steve (who also went with us) when we left that I can't imagine being in their shoes and not having family or friends that could take them in instead of having to go to a shelter. Then, I couldn't help but wonder how do you pass the time all day?
The staff that were there helping to take care of these people were very kind. Local restuarants are catering in the food. Tonight someone was giving them a bar-b-que.
So after you read this post, please say a prayer for those that are still dislocated. It must be hard enough not to know the state of your home or when or if you might return. But life in the shelter cannot be optimal. I do think the people at Huffines are blessed to be where there are only 100 of them than down at the Convention Center with 1400 others.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Sad News
I was really sad to read yesterday that Contemporary Christian Singer,Ray Boltz,is saying he is practicing a homosexual lifestyle. Boltz said in an interview in the Washington Blade, "If this is the way God made me, then this is the way I’m going to live...I really feel closer to God because I no longer hate myself." Ray had been married 33 years and has 4 children. I just find that so sad. I have several Ray Boltz CD's and especially like his songs Watch the Lamb and The Anchor Holds.
So...I am not sure that I understand how if he always thought God made him that way, he could remain married for 33 years? But the biggest question of all is why homosexuals think God would create them into a condition that he blatantly condemns?
1 Corinthians 6:9, Romans 1:26-32, Leviticus 18:22 It just goes to show how great the "father of lies" is, in that he has continued to desensitize our conscience to this issue where more and more we accept homosexuality as an alternative lifestyle as opposed to calling sin, sin. Now, don't misunderstand me, homosexuality is no worse sin than any other sin, and it is a forgiveable sin just like any other, but because it is sin it is not from God or a result of the way God created anyone. If so, He is a cruel God and I know that is not so.
Today I was flipping channels and heard Ellen DeGeneres announce she is the new face for Cover Girl???? Why would Covergirl chose a woman who dresses like a man and is a practicing homosexual to represent them? I just don't understand.
I am going to step out here and make another political comment. Anyone voting for Obama is voting for someone who is going to promote the homosexual lifestyle even though he doesn't agree with it (as he stated in his Saddleback interview). However, he doesn't think the government should regulate it and will be advocating that homosexuals be allowed to be married in whatever states deem it legal. I think it behooves us all to remember that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because their homosexual practices had become so bad. Let us pray that all eyes will be open to God's truth in regards to homosexuality. May He show us how to reach out to that community in His love but stand up against it when we can and not just consider it as acceptable behavior. I applaud people like Dennis Jernigan who have turned from the homosexual lifestyle and are testimonies of God's amazing grace to those who submit to Him in obedience.
So...I am not sure that I understand how if he always thought God made him that way, he could remain married for 33 years? But the biggest question of all is why homosexuals think God would create them into a condition that he blatantly condemns?
1 Corinthians 6:9, Romans 1:26-32, Leviticus 18:22 It just goes to show how great the "father of lies" is, in that he has continued to desensitize our conscience to this issue where more and more we accept homosexuality as an alternative lifestyle as opposed to calling sin, sin. Now, don't misunderstand me, homosexuality is no worse sin than any other sin, and it is a forgiveable sin just like any other, but because it is sin it is not from God or a result of the way God created anyone. If so, He is a cruel God and I know that is not so.
Today I was flipping channels and heard Ellen DeGeneres announce she is the new face for Cover Girl???? Why would Covergirl chose a woman who dresses like a man and is a practicing homosexual to represent them? I just don't understand.
I am going to step out here and make another political comment. Anyone voting for Obama is voting for someone who is going to promote the homosexual lifestyle even though he doesn't agree with it (as he stated in his Saddleback interview). However, he doesn't think the government should regulate it and will be advocating that homosexuals be allowed to be married in whatever states deem it legal. I think it behooves us all to remember that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because their homosexual practices had become so bad. Let us pray that all eyes will be open to God's truth in regards to homosexuality. May He show us how to reach out to that community in His love but stand up against it when we can and not just consider it as acceptable behavior. I applaud people like Dennis Jernigan who have turned from the homosexual lifestyle and are testimonies of God's amazing grace to those who submit to Him in obedience.
Monday, September 15, 2008
More Thoughts On Job
I had some great Bible study this morning. First in Job and then doing my lessons for Ladies Bible Class. We are doing Stepping Up by Beth Moore on the Psalms of Ascent and she just has such great insights.
In reading Job, it doesn't take long to realize that as bad as I might think things are, for me they have never gotten to this point:
Job 19:7-20
"Though I cry, 'I've been wronged!' I get no response;
though I call for help, there is no justice.
He has blocked my way so I cannot pass;
he has shrouded my paths in darkness.
He has stripped me of my honor
and removed the crown from my head.
He tears me down on every side till I am gone;
he uproots my hope like a tree.
His anger burns against me;
he counts me among his enemies.
His troops advance in force;
they build a siege ramp against me
and encamp around my tent.
"He has alienated my brothers from me;
my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.
My kinsmen have gone away;
my friends have forgotten me.
My guests and my maidservants count me a stranger;
they look upon me as an alien.
I summon my servant, but he does not answer,
though I beg him with my own mouth.
My breath is offensive to my wife;
I am loathsome to my own brothers.
Even the little boys scorn me;
when I appear, they ridicule me.
All my intimate friends detest me;
those I love have turned against me.
I am nothing but skin and bones;
I have escaped with only the skin of my teeth."
And yet, see what he says just a few verses later.
Job 19:25-27
"I know that my Redeemer lives,
and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
And after my skin has been destroyed,
yet in my flesh I will see God;
I myself will see him
with my own eyes—I, and not another.
How my heart yearns within me!"
Job knew what David knew in Psalms 121:
"I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore."
Father God, may I come to know you and live life with the faith of Job and David.
In reading Job, it doesn't take long to realize that as bad as I might think things are, for me they have never gotten to this point:
Job 19:7-20
"Though I cry, 'I've been wronged!' I get no response;
though I call for help, there is no justice.
He has blocked my way so I cannot pass;
he has shrouded my paths in darkness.
He has stripped me of my honor
and removed the crown from my head.
He tears me down on every side till I am gone;
he uproots my hope like a tree.
His anger burns against me;
he counts me among his enemies.
His troops advance in force;
they build a siege ramp against me
and encamp around my tent.
"He has alienated my brothers from me;
my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.
My kinsmen have gone away;
my friends have forgotten me.
My guests and my maidservants count me a stranger;
they look upon me as an alien.
I summon my servant, but he does not answer,
though I beg him with my own mouth.
My breath is offensive to my wife;
I am loathsome to my own brothers.
Even the little boys scorn me;
when I appear, they ridicule me.
All my intimate friends detest me;
those I love have turned against me.
I am nothing but skin and bones;
I have escaped with only the skin of my teeth."
And yet, see what he says just a few verses later.
Job 19:25-27
"I know that my Redeemer lives,
and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
And after my skin has been destroyed,
yet in my flesh I will see God;
I myself will see him
with my own eyes—I, and not another.
How my heart yearns within me!"
Job knew what David knew in Psalms 121:
"I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore."
Father God, may I come to know you and live life with the faith of Job and David.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Sunday Snippets
So where did this day go?? Can't believe it is already over.
We had a good discussion in Bible Class this morning about Jesus' attitude toward the poor. It is during these kind of discussions that my heart is convicted that I am not even close to living the way the Lord has called me to live. Luke 14:12-14 says "Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." So when have I ever had a party like this one?
Then, don't you wish you part of a church like described in Acts 2:32-34? "All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need."
There is something to be said for small community. I think most of us don't experience this in community because we don't know each other well enough to know what each other's needs are. But more than that we don't view our property as "not our own". We do good at donating our left overs, but I know I am guilty of not giving away my "things" to help the poor. Today's class gave me a lot to think about.
Then in John's sermon he quoted Neil Anderson from his book Victory Over Darkness.
"It is not what we do that determines who we are, it is who we are that determines what we do...We don't follow Him to be loved, we are loved so we follow Him. To live the victorious Christian life you have to believe what is already true about you."
It is pretty humbling to think that anywhere we are, we are potentially on Holy Ground.
Everyone have a great week. I close with the chorus of a new song we sang today. May it be the prayer of us all as we live out our call this week.
Let us be You, when a wounded soul cries out for hope.
Let us be You, when the lonely need to know they're not alone.
Just as your stars pierce through the night, let us forever shine Your light.
Let us be You, Let us be You on this earth.
We had a good discussion in Bible Class this morning about Jesus' attitude toward the poor. It is during these kind of discussions that my heart is convicted that I am not even close to living the way the Lord has called me to live. Luke 14:12-14 says "Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." So when have I ever had a party like this one?
Then, don't you wish you part of a church like described in Acts 2:32-34? "All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need."
There is something to be said for small community. I think most of us don't experience this in community because we don't know each other well enough to know what each other's needs are. But more than that we don't view our property as "not our own". We do good at donating our left overs, but I know I am guilty of not giving away my "things" to help the poor. Today's class gave me a lot to think about.
Then in John's sermon he quoted Neil Anderson from his book Victory Over Darkness.
"It is not what we do that determines who we are, it is who we are that determines what we do...We don't follow Him to be loved, we are loved so we follow Him. To live the victorious Christian life you have to believe what is already true about you."
It is pretty humbling to think that anywhere we are, we are potentially on Holy Ground.
Everyone have a great week. I close with the chorus of a new song we sang today. May it be the prayer of us all as we live out our call this week.
Let us be You, when a wounded soul cries out for hope.
Let us be You, when the lonely need to know they're not alone.
Just as your stars pierce through the night, let us forever shine Your light.
Let us be You, Let us be You on this earth.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
God Doesn't Get The Credit
Second time within two weeks that hurricanes were not near as devastating as predicted, yet you don't hear any media coverage where God is being praised for His mercy. Interesting how He seems to get the blame for bad things, or people question "where was God", but when He does show up and answer the prayers of all of us who were asking for the protection of those on the coast, no one seems to give Him credit for that? So hopefully you and I will give Him the praise for our answered prayers.
Watched the movie "Bella" tonight. It was a sweet movie with themes of family, friendship and forgiveness. In the "behind the scene" section they explain some of the reasons for making the film. One goal was to portray Mexican Americans in a positive light. The director said doing a movie with values was more important than money and fame. I found that refreshing. In the middle of the movie they play the song "I Am Thine Oh Lord" and the reason it was interesting because it was just playing in the background of a city scene. But the comment by the director that caught my attention was "if you want to make God laugh, make plans".
Watched the movie "Bella" tonight. It was a sweet movie with themes of family, friendship and forgiveness. In the "behind the scene" section they explain some of the reasons for making the film. One goal was to portray Mexican Americans in a positive light. The director said doing a movie with values was more important than money and fame. I found that refreshing. In the middle of the movie they play the song "I Am Thine Oh Lord" and the reason it was interesting because it was just playing in the background of a city scene. But the comment by the director that caught my attention was "if you want to make God laugh, make plans".
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hollywood Politics
After you read my ranting you are going to say "why doesn't she just turn the T.V. off?" Good question!!
I am so tired of the political climate on television right now. Perhaps it has always been as bad as it is right now, but it just seems worse to me.
All of us are not going to agree on who will be the best next president and I understand that, but I am not sure why the media cannot present an unbiased look? In my opinion Charles Gibson (who I like and watch every night) was doing his best to drill Sarah Palin and catch her in a misspoken word. I thought he outright harassed her on some questions.
Then did anyone see Matt Damon and his comments? His objection to Palin is she is not experienced enough to take over as President if John McKay dies (as actuarial information predicts he is 3x more likely to do so). First of all is anyone else tired of Hollywood personalities speaking out as political analyst? Just because they have a public forum we have to listen to their comments? I emailed Matt Damon and asked him to explain to me how less than 2 years in the Senate makes his candidate more qualified to move into the White house in 6 months?? And also told him I would be boycotting his movies in the future. I am really sure that matters to him :0
Then there was PDiddy when he said there were "no blacks or crackheads in Alaska"?? What was he trying to say or prove? They showed there are actually more African Americans living in Alaska than in New Jersey where he currently lives. (this is from the man who has five children but has never been married?) Anyway...I know I shouldn't throw stones. I just wish they didn't get the press time.
Then did you hear today that a democrat Steve Cohen said that "Jesus was a community organizer and Pilate was a governor?" Guess he wasn't the originator of the comment, but nevertheless don't know why there has to be so many negative comments instead of focusing on the facts. In advertising, why don't both parties focus on what they will do instead of telling us what the other party won't do? I said it a few weeks ago and I will repeat it, I just wish we could get rid of both parties and start over!!
This was part of a Rueters article today:
"Democratic candidates have long enjoyed a fundraising advantage in Hollywood. Through the end of July, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama raised $5.2 million from the entertainment industry, compared with McCain's $885,000, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
"It's like 10 to 1 here in terms of performing artists who support Obama versus McCain. There are a significant group of Republican supporters in Hollywood, but they're just not as outspoken," said political analyst Allan Hoffenblum
Hollywood is aligning again for Obama on September 16 when Barbra Streisand will sing at a Beverly Hills event expected to raise as much as $9 million."
Found those statistics to be very interesting and perhaps something I should be thinking about the next time I give them our money by watching their movies???
Finally, let me just say why are reporters so stupid? Are we so hungry for reality that they have to stand out in the middle of a hurricane and tell us what is going on? They have a mandatory evacuation, but reporters still stay and report from outside? makes no sense to me!
Okay, I apologize that this was a rather negative post. I will try to stay off the political topic in future posts, but did just have to vent tonight.
I am so tired of the political climate on television right now. Perhaps it has always been as bad as it is right now, but it just seems worse to me.
All of us are not going to agree on who will be the best next president and I understand that, but I am not sure why the media cannot present an unbiased look? In my opinion Charles Gibson (who I like and watch every night) was doing his best to drill Sarah Palin and catch her in a misspoken word. I thought he outright harassed her on some questions.
Then did anyone see Matt Damon and his comments? His objection to Palin is she is not experienced enough to take over as President if John McKay dies (as actuarial information predicts he is 3x more likely to do so). First of all is anyone else tired of Hollywood personalities speaking out as political analyst? Just because they have a public forum we have to listen to their comments? I emailed Matt Damon and asked him to explain to me how less than 2 years in the Senate makes his candidate more qualified to move into the White house in 6 months?? And also told him I would be boycotting his movies in the future. I am really sure that matters to him :0
Then there was PDiddy when he said there were "no blacks or crackheads in Alaska"?? What was he trying to say or prove? They showed there are actually more African Americans living in Alaska than in New Jersey where he currently lives. (this is from the man who has five children but has never been married?) Anyway...I know I shouldn't throw stones. I just wish they didn't get the press time.
Then did you hear today that a democrat Steve Cohen said that "Jesus was a community organizer and Pilate was a governor?" Guess he wasn't the originator of the comment, but nevertheless don't know why there has to be so many negative comments instead of focusing on the facts. In advertising, why don't both parties focus on what they will do instead of telling us what the other party won't do? I said it a few weeks ago and I will repeat it, I just wish we could get rid of both parties and start over!!
This was part of a Rueters article today:
"Democratic candidates have long enjoyed a fundraising advantage in Hollywood. Through the end of July, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama raised $5.2 million from the entertainment industry, compared with McCain's $885,000, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
"It's like 10 to 1 here in terms of performing artists who support Obama versus McCain. There are a significant group of Republican supporters in Hollywood, but they're just not as outspoken," said political analyst Allan Hoffenblum
Hollywood is aligning again for Obama on September 16 when Barbra Streisand will sing at a Beverly Hills event expected to raise as much as $9 million."
Found those statistics to be very interesting and perhaps something I should be thinking about the next time I give them our money by watching their movies???
Finally, let me just say why are reporters so stupid? Are we so hungry for reality that they have to stand out in the middle of a hurricane and tell us what is going on? They have a mandatory evacuation, but reporters still stay and report from outside? makes no sense to me!
Okay, I apologize that this was a rather negative post. I will try to stay off the political topic in future posts, but did just have to vent tonight.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Why Can't I Be Like Job?
Today in our daily Bible reading we are in Job. First of all I am thinking, who wrote Job because of all the speeches by Job and his friends and then God, did someone write all those words as they were being spoken or did the Holy Spirit just remind them of them all once they got to writing? Looked it up and guess they don't really know who wrote it.
Anyway...today some things struck me in the reading. It struck me that Satan appears before God and then is given permission to attack Job and is directly responsible for the attack, but no one recognizes the attack being from Satan but thinks God is punishing Job for his sins. So the accusations are against God, not against Satan. It made me wonder how we actually know whether our attacks are from God or Satan. Yesterday when I was working Carecorp, one of the clients was having to have all her teeth pulled and said "Satan just must not want me to have any teeth". But we do have biblical text that tells us that God disciplines us and that He sends trials in order to grow us. In the end it probably doesn't matter as long as God gets the victory when we just praise Him regardless of our circumstances.
Job is so confident that he is sinless. I couldn't help but wonder about my own life and whether I would think I could say to the Lord, "let's meet face to face and you tell me what I have done wrong, because I think I can defend myself to you". Regardless of what I think of Job's friends and their advice the fact of the matter is they sat with him for 7 days and 7 nights without saying a word at first. I have never even sat with a friend for an hour with my mouth shut, much less 7 days. Perhaps there is a lesson for me there as just presence can be comforting without words.
Then here Job is, he lost all of his wealth, and now is writhing in pain with leprosy, but he still has wit. After his friends give him useless advice he says "If only you would be altogether silent, for you that would be wisdom." I don't know that in his shoes I could be thinking on my feet like that.
But it is no surprise that the thing that always touches my heart about Job is His faith in God. Here are some of the statements in today's reading that I wish I could say:
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised."
"Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"
"Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal."
"He will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."
"Who can say to Him, 'What are you doing?'"
"Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him."
After several weeks of not particularly reading about the measurements of the temple and some of Ezekiel's prophecies, I am actually looking forward to the next few days of readings in Job, because his spirit always inspires me.
Anyway...today some things struck me in the reading. It struck me that Satan appears before God and then is given permission to attack Job and is directly responsible for the attack, but no one recognizes the attack being from Satan but thinks God is punishing Job for his sins. So the accusations are against God, not against Satan. It made me wonder how we actually know whether our attacks are from God or Satan. Yesterday when I was working Carecorp, one of the clients was having to have all her teeth pulled and said "Satan just must not want me to have any teeth". But we do have biblical text that tells us that God disciplines us and that He sends trials in order to grow us. In the end it probably doesn't matter as long as God gets the victory when we just praise Him regardless of our circumstances.
Job is so confident that he is sinless. I couldn't help but wonder about my own life and whether I would think I could say to the Lord, "let's meet face to face and you tell me what I have done wrong, because I think I can defend myself to you". Regardless of what I think of Job's friends and their advice the fact of the matter is they sat with him for 7 days and 7 nights without saying a word at first. I have never even sat with a friend for an hour with my mouth shut, much less 7 days. Perhaps there is a lesson for me there as just presence can be comforting without words.
Then here Job is, he lost all of his wealth, and now is writhing in pain with leprosy, but he still has wit. After his friends give him useless advice he says "If only you would be altogether silent, for you that would be wisdom." I don't know that in his shoes I could be thinking on my feet like that.
But it is no surprise that the thing that always touches my heart about Job is His faith in God. Here are some of the statements in today's reading that I wish I could say:
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised."
"Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"
"Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal."
"He will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."
"Who can say to Him, 'What are you doing?'"
"Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him."
After several weeks of not particularly reading about the measurements of the temple and some of Ezekiel's prophecies, I am actually looking forward to the next few days of readings in Job, because his spirit always inspires me.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Fact Check
I don't know about you but one of the things I hate about politics and politicians is all the attack campaigns. One party/candidate says one thing and then the other denies it. Or one thing gets reported or blown out of proportion. So if you are like me and don't know what to believe then you will also appreciate this site, if you don't already know about it. www.factcheck.org
You can sign up and they will email you anytime they have made a discovery. They seem to me to be giving equal time to both parties.
I also enjoyed watching a video of a talk Sarah Palin gave a graduating class. I found it refreshing to know that she knows she must seek God's will in her decisions. I only wish she had talked more about her faith in her speech. Also, wouldn't it be nice for the candidates who profess to be Christians to actually include a prayer in their speech? To me it would mean so much more than them all saying "God bless America". If you want to watch the video, you can find it at:
www.onenewsnow.com/Election2008/Default.aspx?id=239968
Sorry, this new blog format for some reason doesn't let me do links?? So hopefully you can cut and paste :)
You can sign up and they will email you anytime they have made a discovery. They seem to me to be giving equal time to both parties.
I also enjoyed watching a video of a talk Sarah Palin gave a graduating class. I found it refreshing to know that she knows she must seek God's will in her decisions. I only wish she had talked more about her faith in her speech. Also, wouldn't it be nice for the candidates who profess to be Christians to actually include a prayer in their speech? To me it would mean so much more than them all saying "God bless America". If you want to watch the video, you can find it at:
www.onenewsnow.com/Election2008/Default.aspx?id=239968
Sorry, this new blog format for some reason doesn't let me do links?? So hopefully you can cut and paste :)
Monday, September 08, 2008
I Love To Laugh
Anyone remember that song from Mary Poppins?
I just thought we all needed to laugh a little today, so here are some of the best jokes from this month's Reader's Digest. They listed their 50 most popular.
"We were really confused. While transcribing medical audiotapes, a colleague came upon the following garbled diagnosis: "This man has pholenfrometry." Knowing nothing about that condition, she double-checked with the doctor. After listening to the tape, he shook his head. 'This man' he said, translating for her 'has fallen from a tree.'"
"Hospital regulations require a wheelchair for patients being discharged. However, I found an elderly gentleman already dressed and sitting on the bed with a suitcase at his feet who insisted he didn't need my help to leave the hospital. After a chat about rules being rules he reluctantly let me wheel him to the elevator. On the way down, I asked if his wife was meeting him. 'I don't know', he said, 'She's still upstairs in the bathroom changing out of her hospital gown.'"
"While I was shopping in a pharmacy, a couple of teenagers came in. They were dressed in leather, chains, and safety pins. The boy had blue and purple spiked hair and the girl's hair was bright yellow. Suddenly the boy picked up a pair of sunglasses and tried them on. 'What do you think', he asked his girlfriend. 'Take them off!' she howled, 'They make you look ridiculous.'"
"Walter goes to do his laundry. But within seconds of stepping into the laundry room, he yells out, 'Honey, what setting do I use on the washing machine?' 'It depends,' his wife answered. 'What does it say on your shirt?' 'University of Wisconsin.'"
"A little boy opened the big family Bible.
He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages.
Suddenly something fell out of the Bible.
He picked up the object and looked at it closely.
What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. 'Momma, look what I found,' the boy called out. 'What have you got there, dear?' his mother asked.
With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered: 'I think it's Adam's underwear!'"
Okay...not the greatest. Why don't you leave me a joke and give me a laugh :)
I just thought we all needed to laugh a little today, so here are some of the best jokes from this month's Reader's Digest. They listed their 50 most popular.
"We were really confused. While transcribing medical audiotapes, a colleague came upon the following garbled diagnosis: "This man has pholenfrometry." Knowing nothing about that condition, she double-checked with the doctor. After listening to the tape, he shook his head. 'This man' he said, translating for her 'has fallen from a tree.'"
"Hospital regulations require a wheelchair for patients being discharged. However, I found an elderly gentleman already dressed and sitting on the bed with a suitcase at his feet who insisted he didn't need my help to leave the hospital. After a chat about rules being rules he reluctantly let me wheel him to the elevator. On the way down, I asked if his wife was meeting him. 'I don't know', he said, 'She's still upstairs in the bathroom changing out of her hospital gown.'"
"While I was shopping in a pharmacy, a couple of teenagers came in. They were dressed in leather, chains, and safety pins. The boy had blue and purple spiked hair and the girl's hair was bright yellow. Suddenly the boy picked up a pair of sunglasses and tried them on. 'What do you think', he asked his girlfriend. 'Take them off!' she howled, 'They make you look ridiculous.'"
"Walter goes to do his laundry. But within seconds of stepping into the laundry room, he yells out, 'Honey, what setting do I use on the washing machine?' 'It depends,' his wife answered. 'What does it say on your shirt?' 'University of Wisconsin.'"
"A little boy opened the big family Bible.
He was fascinated as he fingered through the old pages.
Suddenly something fell out of the Bible.
He picked up the object and looked at it closely.
What he saw was an old leaf that had been pressed in between the pages. 'Momma, look what I found,' the boy called out. 'What have you got there, dear?' his mother asked.
With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered: 'I think it's Adam's underwear!'"
Okay...not the greatest. Why don't you leave me a joke and give me a laugh :)
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Sunday Snippets
Steve and I were back at Richardson East this morning after our summer sabbatical. Even though we didn't get home until 8:00 p.m. last night from Nebraska, we were there bright and early for the new Luke series in Bible class. We went to a new class and I liked the fact it was small. We spent some time in Luke 11 and I saw something I had not seen before. Goes somewhat with my post a few days ago about unanswered prayer. After Jesus says, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be open, ask and you will recieve, He goes on to explain that a father would not give a snake to a child who asked for a fish, or a scorpion to a child who asked for an egg. It isn't neccesarily an answer to prayer that Jesus promises but the gift of the Holy Spirit. Luke 11:12 "how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"
We sang a new song today (new to RE, not to me) but I was ministered to by the words to this song again like so many others by Chris Tomlin.
How Can I Keep From Singing
There is an endless song
Echoes in my soul
I hear the music ring
And though the storms may come
I am holding on
To the rock I cling
How can I keep from singing Your praise
How can I ever say enough
How amazing is Your love
How can I keep from shouting Your name
I know I am loved by the King
And it makes my heart want to sing
I will lift my eyes
In the darkest night
For I know my Savior lives
And I will walk with You
Knowing You'll see me through
And sing the songs You give
I can sing in the troubled times
Sing when I win
I can sing when I lose my step
And fall down again
I can sing 'cause You pick me up
Sing 'cause You're there
I can sing 'cause You hear me, Lord
When I call to You in prayer
I can sing with my last breath
Sing for I know
That I'll sing with the angels
And the saints around the throne
John then began a new sermon series entitled "New Creation". I could not help but think to myself "if it is true that my old self has passed away and in Christ I am a new creation" as 2 Corinthians 5:17 says then I wonder why I continue to struggle with the old flesh habits? Sometimes I sure don't feel like much of a new creation.
Verse 20 goes on to say "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us." I don't believe in tatooing, but if I did I need this verse tatooed to the top of my hand so I can see it all the time to remind myself that God is entrusting me to be His message of reconciliation.
John told us to meditate on these 4 thoughts this week:
1. When do you most sense this world's need for reconciliation to God?
2. What aspects of your own life need reconciliation to God?
3. Where do you see God doing the ministry of reconciliation in the world?
4. How have you experienced God's ministry of reconciliation in your own life?
Would love to hear some of your answers to these questions. I'll try to share mine later this week. Blessings on your week!
We sang a new song today (new to RE, not to me) but I was ministered to by the words to this song again like so many others by Chris Tomlin.
How Can I Keep From Singing
There is an endless song
Echoes in my soul
I hear the music ring
And though the storms may come
I am holding on
To the rock I cling
How can I keep from singing Your praise
How can I ever say enough
How amazing is Your love
How can I keep from shouting Your name
I know I am loved by the King
And it makes my heart want to sing
I will lift my eyes
In the darkest night
For I know my Savior lives
And I will walk with You
Knowing You'll see me through
And sing the songs You give
I can sing in the troubled times
Sing when I win
I can sing when I lose my step
And fall down again
I can sing 'cause You pick me up
Sing 'cause You're there
I can sing 'cause You hear me, Lord
When I call to You in prayer
I can sing with my last breath
Sing for I know
That I'll sing with the angels
And the saints around the throne
John then began a new sermon series entitled "New Creation". I could not help but think to myself "if it is true that my old self has passed away and in Christ I am a new creation" as 2 Corinthians 5:17 says then I wonder why I continue to struggle with the old flesh habits? Sometimes I sure don't feel like much of a new creation.
Verse 20 goes on to say "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us." I don't believe in tatooing, but if I did I need this verse tatooed to the top of my hand so I can see it all the time to remind myself that God is entrusting me to be His message of reconciliation.
John told us to meditate on these 4 thoughts this week:
1. When do you most sense this world's need for reconciliation to God?
2. What aspects of your own life need reconciliation to God?
3. Where do you see God doing the ministry of reconciliation in the world?
4. How have you experienced God's ministry of reconciliation in your own life?
Would love to hear some of your answers to these questions. I'll try to share mine later this week. Blessings on your week!
Friday, September 05, 2008
Loving God's Creation
There is just something about living out in the country that just brings you a little closer to God. Steve's mom lives on 10 acres outside of the Omaha city limits. Very little traffic noise, lots of birds. And then last night as I was sitting on the back deck reading a book there was a doe. She was eating apples from the apple tree. When she saw me she perked her ears up and must have just stood still for 15-20 minutes. I thought why is she standing so still like that for so long? Well, finally I saw my answer 2 fawn. She was protecting her babies. It was amazing how aware she was. I don't know how far away I was about a block but she could still sense me. Then Steve went out the front of the house and came along the side to see if he could see them and immediately she perked up again and bolted. He was even further away than I was. I just found it fascinating. I asked Steve this morning as we were walking out to pick apples to bring home "do you think if you live here all the time this just becomes routine", he said "I would hope not."
Yesterday I had a blast riding the tractor and mowing for about 5 hours. I had on my Ipod with praise music and God and I just had a great time. It was so fun driving by the peach tree and picking fresh peaches and then going by the apple tree and picking an apple. It was breathtaking to watch the swallows come and dive at the bugs while I stirred up the grass. They were all around me. It was just a really fun time. I had told Steve and his brother I had looked forward to driving a tractor for a long time. Well, this was a small Kubota, but was still fun. I had no idea they were so noisy though, so was glad for the Ipod.
I still haven't convinced Steve to retire here because he does not want to spend winters somewhere this cold. I can see his point as this house sits on a hill with blind driveways and getting up and down that hill in the winter could be problematic and there is nothing close by (stores, etc) About 5 miles to the closest anything. A huge change from a few blocks at our current house. But being here has cemented my desire that where ever we go I hope it will be more in the country than in the city.
Yesterday I had a blast riding the tractor and mowing for about 5 hours. I had on my Ipod with praise music and God and I just had a great time. It was so fun driving by the peach tree and picking fresh peaches and then going by the apple tree and picking an apple. It was breathtaking to watch the swallows come and dive at the bugs while I stirred up the grass. They were all around me. It was just a really fun time. I had told Steve and his brother I had looked forward to driving a tractor for a long time. Well, this was a small Kubota, but was still fun. I had no idea they were so noisy though, so was glad for the Ipod.
I still haven't convinced Steve to retire here because he does not want to spend winters somewhere this cold. I can see his point as this house sits on a hill with blind driveways and getting up and down that hill in the winter could be problematic and there is nothing close by (stores, etc) About 5 miles to the closest anything. A huge change from a few blocks at our current house. But being here has cemented my desire that where ever we go I hope it will be more in the country than in the city.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
I'm Stuck
Today I ventured out on the highways of Omaha all by myself and went shopping. I went to a really neat Christian bookstore called Parables. It was better than Family Christian, but not as big as Mardel's. Nevertheless, it was fun to look around a new store. I bought the 5th book in the AD Chronicles series I am reading and a book I have heard about for a long time The Sin Eater. But while I was walking around I saw a quote that caught my attention and has continued to dwell with me the rest of the day. "Faith is not believing that God can...but knowing that God will".
So I said to myself...that is my problem. I only hope that He will and know that He can. During my times of crisis when I have cried out to the Lord I remind Him of verses such as these:
Matthew 17:20
"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Luke 17:6
"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."
Matthew 21:22
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Mark 11:24
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."
But even though I quote those verses, I remember all the times I have prayed and I did not get the outcome I prayed for. This is especially true when it comes to healings. I know that God's plan is always perfect and He is always good and when a prayer is not answered the way I had hoped I tell myself those very things. However, why are we told if we just believe, we will receive? I am left thinking it must be my fault that I really didn't believe enough. And others will say things like "well, it just wasn't God's plan, or God's ways are not our ways, or God is making a quilt and one day you will see all the stitching underneath, etc." But the bottom line is I believed I would receive and I didn't.
So I am stuck. What if I do believe that there is nothing God can't do, but also know the God who can do anything sometimes doesn't? Where does that leave my faith?
For me it leaves me saying the same thing the father said in Mark 9:24 '"I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
So I said to myself...that is my problem. I only hope that He will and know that He can. During my times of crisis when I have cried out to the Lord I remind Him of verses such as these:
Matthew 17:20
"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Luke 17:6
"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."
Matthew 21:22
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
Mark 11:24
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."
But even though I quote those verses, I remember all the times I have prayed and I did not get the outcome I prayed for. This is especially true when it comes to healings. I know that God's plan is always perfect and He is always good and when a prayer is not answered the way I had hoped I tell myself those very things. However, why are we told if we just believe, we will receive? I am left thinking it must be my fault that I really didn't believe enough. And others will say things like "well, it just wasn't God's plan, or God's ways are not our ways, or God is making a quilt and one day you will see all the stitching underneath, etc." But the bottom line is I believed I would receive and I didn't.
So I am stuck. What if I do believe that there is nothing God can't do, but also know the God who can do anything sometimes doesn't? Where does that leave my faith?
For me it leaves me saying the same thing the father said in Mark 9:24 '"I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
Monday, September 01, 2008
It's For The Birds
This morning I was sitting out on my mother in laws back deck reading and enjoying the birds. It was a great morning with a nice breeze. There are so many little wrens here and they were just singing and chasing each other. Then there was a woodpecker. He was fun to watch as he went up and down the tree looking for bugs. Then a huge blue jay. Boy was he noisy. I could not help but think of Matthew 6:26
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
And Luke 12:6-7 "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
To think about all the bird and know that God knows each one of them and where they are at all times. Why is it that I let Satan interfere and give me thoughts from time to time that God does not care about what concerns me? He allows me to devalue myself in the eyes of my Father. I am glad for the reminders all around me that I indeed do matter, and what concerns me, definitely concerns Him!
Hope each of you were able to spend some of your holiday spending time with your Father that loves you more than you can imagine!
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
And Luke 12:6-7 "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
To think about all the bird and know that God knows each one of them and where they are at all times. Why is it that I let Satan interfere and give me thoughts from time to time that God does not care about what concerns me? He allows me to devalue myself in the eyes of my Father. I am glad for the reminders all around me that I indeed do matter, and what concerns me, definitely concerns Him!
Hope each of you were able to spend some of your holiday spending time with your Father that loves you more than you can imagine!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)