2 Corinthians 9:6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
This is my avenue of confession. Mike and I fell off the tithing wagon some time ago. We have given, just sporadically, and not the way we normally do. I would say too, that we have been giving less than we normally do.
Christmastime is a bad time for trying to get back into giving money or making a budget. I am not usually a huge shopper, but this year I am having a lot of fun thinking of things for people or running into things that I think they would like. Not to mention I have done a little shopping for myself, which is rather unusual.
But I also still know that the Lord wants my firstfruits. And I am recommitting to giving that to Him. I have this feeling that once I get back in line doing what I know is right for the Lord, that I will see more fruits in my life... More joy, more peace, less complaining, less seeing any kind of lack in my life.
When I give away my money, I want to also give away any ways in which I feel I want something someone else has. I already have SO much. And I know I can trust the Lord with the desires of my heart. He will provide what is right for me and my family... And that plan will be able to play out just right when I am starting out in obedience to His Word.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Friday, December 7, 2012
God of comfort
2 Corinthians 7:5 For when we came into Macedonia, this body of ours had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn--conflicts on the outside, fears within. 6 But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him.
I had a bad dream last night. And I woke up this morning feeling worried, rather than hopeful, which was the way I went to bed. That feeling usually does not last long and I am glad I opened the Bible today because I got to these scriptures.
I am thankful that my worries usually cannot stick with me for that long. I have too much going on in any given day and I have to let my mind focus on what is in front of me. But I am also thankful that I have God's Word, which reminds me of that phrase, "But God...." But God gives me daily distractions. But God gives me friends who cheer me up, understand me, and know when I need to talk and when being quiet is better. But God gave me a husband and kids who are so wonderful and keep me laughing and full. And my "But God" list could go on and on.
When I just look around, I see all that God has provided for me and I am comforted that He sees me. He sees my heart's desires, He sees my fears, He sees all that goes on around me. And He knows just what I will need to keep peace in my head and heart. I cannot imagine living my life without Him.
I had a bad dream last night. And I woke up this morning feeling worried, rather than hopeful, which was the way I went to bed. That feeling usually does not last long and I am glad I opened the Bible today because I got to these scriptures.
I am thankful that my worries usually cannot stick with me for that long. I have too much going on in any given day and I have to let my mind focus on what is in front of me. But I am also thankful that I have God's Word, which reminds me of that phrase, "But God...." But God gives me daily distractions. But God gives me friends who cheer me up, understand me, and know when I need to talk and when being quiet is better. But God gave me a husband and kids who are so wonderful and keep me laughing and full. And my "But God" list could go on and on.
When I just look around, I see all that God has provided for me and I am comforted that He sees me. He sees my heart's desires, He sees my fears, He sees all that goes on around me. And He knows just what I will need to keep peace in my head and heart. I cannot imagine living my life without Him.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Living for Christ
2 Corinthians 5:15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
I really long to make my life look like this, every moment living for Christ, and being unafraid and unashamed to say that. I also want to live every moment IN the knowledge of this fact. Sometimes I get so busy in my days that I float through them not remembering who I am desiring to live for, not giving Him ALL the credit, feeling, at the end of the day, like I have not really given Him every moment.
Maybe it is unrealistic to want to feel like I thought about the Lord in every single thing that happened to me that day. And so I pray that the Holy Spirit is active in every second of my day, that the Lord is with me through His Spirit, which helps me to live as though Jesus is right there in the room with me.
This is a busy time of year. We get so busy with so many things going on, so many people to see and interact with, so much we think we need to get accomplished. And this whole season is supposed to be about Him!! I hate thinking how often I probably forget that. So, today, I am going to, yet again, try again to make the effort to live for Christ, and remember His birth and sacrifice so that I can fully live.
I really long to make my life look like this, every moment living for Christ, and being unafraid and unashamed to say that. I also want to live every moment IN the knowledge of this fact. Sometimes I get so busy in my days that I float through them not remembering who I am desiring to live for, not giving Him ALL the credit, feeling, at the end of the day, like I have not really given Him every moment.
Maybe it is unrealistic to want to feel like I thought about the Lord in every single thing that happened to me that day. And so I pray that the Holy Spirit is active in every second of my day, that the Lord is with me through His Spirit, which helps me to live as though Jesus is right there in the room with me.
This is a busy time of year. We get so busy with so many things going on, so many people to see and interact with, so much we think we need to get accomplished. And this whole season is supposed to be about Him!! I hate thinking how often I probably forget that. So, today, I am going to, yet again, try again to make the effort to live for Christ, and remember His birth and sacrifice so that I can fully live.
Even the hard stuff builds hope
2 Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart... 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary and what is unseen is eternal.
So many things about this life can be discouraging. On a daily basis we go through things that shake us up. There are a couple things that I used to think, "If this happens in my life, I might be mad at God. I might even let go of my faith." But I have found, as the years go by, that has not happened. I love God more now than I ever have before. I have found that even in the hard things He is faithful to provide for my needs. He has sent me His Words at just the right moments, friends who understand, and hugs at the right times.
Don't get me wrong, I have had a few good cries over the things that have not gone as I imagined they would. I have even told the Lord exactly how I feel about things. But in the end, the hope I have in Him is enough. My hope of heaven and meeting my Lord and Savior there overwhelms me, even in the midst of loss. I am so grateful for that hope and the fact that it has not been squashed since it started building.
I know there are hard things about this life that will probably still come my way. I have a feeling I might even have some things to say to God about them when they come. But I also believe that even then, the Lord will show Himself to me in the details that remind me of His presence in my life. I am thankful for my hope in those moments.
So many things about this life can be discouraging. On a daily basis we go through things that shake us up. There are a couple things that I used to think, "If this happens in my life, I might be mad at God. I might even let go of my faith." But I have found, as the years go by, that has not happened. I love God more now than I ever have before. I have found that even in the hard things He is faithful to provide for my needs. He has sent me His Words at just the right moments, friends who understand, and hugs at the right times.
Don't get me wrong, I have had a few good cries over the things that have not gone as I imagined they would. I have even told the Lord exactly how I feel about things. But in the end, the hope I have in Him is enough. My hope of heaven and meeting my Lord and Savior there overwhelms me, even in the midst of loss. I am so grateful for that hope and the fact that it has not been squashed since it started building.
I know there are hard things about this life that will probably still come my way. I have a feeling I might even have some things to say to God about them when they come. But I also believe that even then, the Lord will show Himself to me in the details that remind me of His presence in my life. I am thankful for my hope in those moments.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Freedom
2 Corinthians 3:16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.
3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
The "veil" on our lives is the time before we accept Christ, the way we live(d) without Him. So often, I think about what my life was like when I was still wearing that "veil" of the world, how I wanted my life to be successful and full in the eyes of the world, how I thought that there was some other person that might make me feel full.
But what I have come to realize, through my acceptance of Christ's salvation and subsequent study of His Word, is that living within what the Bible tells us is freeing in a way that the world had never given me. Living within the "rules" given through the Bible really impresses upon me my Heavenly Father's love. He wrote a whole book for me, to guide me in this life!! And sent His Son as an offering for my sin! He wanted me to know how I can one day be with Him in heaven. And He wanted me to know that He is always with me, through His Spirit. I can allow Him to work in my life by believing in and calling on the power of the Holy Spirit.
I have had worldly experiences which have lead to negative feelings. These were, of course, choices I made on my own. While I believe God has used those experiences for good and for His glory, I also realize how much healthier (mentally and spiritually) I would probably be if I had known and listened to His Word instead of making bad choices. This is not a pity party over here though. I can and do Rejoice in the Spirit of the Lord that has brought me freedom. I have to sometimes remind myself of this freedom, because I am still so far from perfect and do things wrong. But I believe that if I continue to love and serve my Lord, He will continue to bring me freedom through His Spirit and transform me into someone that reflects His Glory.
Thank you Lord that you took away my veil!!
3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
The "veil" on our lives is the time before we accept Christ, the way we live(d) without Him. So often, I think about what my life was like when I was still wearing that "veil" of the world, how I wanted my life to be successful and full in the eyes of the world, how I thought that there was some other person that might make me feel full.
But what I have come to realize, through my acceptance of Christ's salvation and subsequent study of His Word, is that living within what the Bible tells us is freeing in a way that the world had never given me. Living within the "rules" given through the Bible really impresses upon me my Heavenly Father's love. He wrote a whole book for me, to guide me in this life!! And sent His Son as an offering for my sin! He wanted me to know how I can one day be with Him in heaven. And He wanted me to know that He is always with me, through His Spirit. I can allow Him to work in my life by believing in and calling on the power of the Holy Spirit.
I have had worldly experiences which have lead to negative feelings. These were, of course, choices I made on my own. While I believe God has used those experiences for good and for His glory, I also realize how much healthier (mentally and spiritually) I would probably be if I had known and listened to His Word instead of making bad choices. This is not a pity party over here though. I can and do Rejoice in the Spirit of the Lord that has brought me freedom. I have to sometimes remind myself of this freedom, because I am still so far from perfect and do things wrong. But I believe that if I continue to love and serve my Lord, He will continue to bring me freedom through His Spirit and transform me into someone that reflects His Glory.
Thank you Lord that you took away my veil!!
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Comfort
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
There are experiences we have that grow us into compassionate humans. I consider myself a compassionate person. I feel that I can put myself in others' shoes. But in the last couple years of my life, I realize that I have learned some valuable things about myself and my relationship to others. I realize that I sometimes ask too many questions, about stuff people just do not want to talk about. I realize that I want information that is not my business. I realize that others are hurting in areas that I do not understand. I am sure there are still many things about this life and hurting people that I do not understand.
This lack of self awareness came from a genuine curiosity in getting to know people and my tendency to ask too many questions. It also came from a lack of experience... When you have not been in someone else's shoes and have not had to experience or think about what they are going through, you might not be as careful with your words.
But the last couple years I am learning that I need to be quiet! I need to sit back and allow time to let me get to know someone and not expect them to blurt out their story, just because I am willing to share mine. And I am learning that I myself do not always want to share everything. There are some things in our lives that are hard to talk about over and over and over. There are some things it is hard to listen to others' advice about, unless they too have been in your shoes.
I am also learning that Jesus really is my comfort. Over time He has shown me that I can lean on Him. I might not feel better just as soon as I pray, but He is faithful to bring peace, even when I have to grieve, explore, or work on whatever is going on in my life. And He can turn my needs for comfort into the ability to be there for someone else who needs comfort too. Jesus is a God of healing and relationship. I am so thankful for the people He has brought into my life that have helped me see His comfort and peace is attainable and given it out to me themselves. I am thankful the Lord has provided just who I need to help me see Him more clearly and to help me grow and be more like Him.
There are experiences we have that grow us into compassionate humans. I consider myself a compassionate person. I feel that I can put myself in others' shoes. But in the last couple years of my life, I realize that I have learned some valuable things about myself and my relationship to others. I realize that I sometimes ask too many questions, about stuff people just do not want to talk about. I realize that I want information that is not my business. I realize that others are hurting in areas that I do not understand. I am sure there are still many things about this life and hurting people that I do not understand.
This lack of self awareness came from a genuine curiosity in getting to know people and my tendency to ask too many questions. It also came from a lack of experience... When you have not been in someone else's shoes and have not had to experience or think about what they are going through, you might not be as careful with your words.
But the last couple years I am learning that I need to be quiet! I need to sit back and allow time to let me get to know someone and not expect them to blurt out their story, just because I am willing to share mine. And I am learning that I myself do not always want to share everything. There are some things in our lives that are hard to talk about over and over and over. There are some things it is hard to listen to others' advice about, unless they too have been in your shoes.
I am also learning that Jesus really is my comfort. Over time He has shown me that I can lean on Him. I might not feel better just as soon as I pray, but He is faithful to bring peace, even when I have to grieve, explore, or work on whatever is going on in my life. And He can turn my needs for comfort into the ability to be there for someone else who needs comfort too. Jesus is a God of healing and relationship. I am so thankful for the people He has brought into my life that have helped me see His comfort and peace is attainable and given it out to me themselves. I am thankful the Lord has provided just who I need to help me see Him more clearly and to help me grow and be more like Him.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Heavenly citizenship
Philippians 3:20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.
I know there are things that will make me sad and cause me heartache in this life. There already has been those things. It is because of this promise from the Lord though, that I can grieve and move on. I am so thankful that I am able to feel sure that heaven awaits me one day and that the believers I love that have gone before me will be waiting for me there.
My mortality was not the thing that lead me to seek out Christ. For me, it was the fact that I felt like my life was not what I wanted it to be. I did not feel good about myself and the person that I was. But in the process of getting to know the Lord through His Word and His church, I realized the significance of what He did for me on the cross. He made a way for me to be a citizen of heaven, despite the fact that I do not deserve it. He made a way for me to know Him personally.
Knowing Jesus has changed my life. Allowing Him into my heart has given me a hope for the future that I did not have before. I know that not everyone can get hope from taking a leap of faith in a God that became a Man that died on a cross... And if you need more, more knowledge, more research, more science, it is out there. Go, look for it. Allow yourself the opportunity to believe in something bigger than yourself, something that will one day reward you with life in heaven.
I know there are things that will make me sad and cause me heartache in this life. There already has been those things. It is because of this promise from the Lord though, that I can grieve and move on. I am so thankful that I am able to feel sure that heaven awaits me one day and that the believers I love that have gone before me will be waiting for me there.
My mortality was not the thing that lead me to seek out Christ. For me, it was the fact that I felt like my life was not what I wanted it to be. I did not feel good about myself and the person that I was. But in the process of getting to know the Lord through His Word and His church, I realized the significance of what He did for me on the cross. He made a way for me to be a citizen of heaven, despite the fact that I do not deserve it. He made a way for me to know Him personally.
Knowing Jesus has changed my life. Allowing Him into my heart has given me a hope for the future that I did not have before. I know that not everyone can get hope from taking a leap of faith in a God that became a Man that died on a cross... And if you need more, more knowledge, more research, more science, it is out there. Go, look for it. Allow yourself the opportunity to believe in something bigger than yourself, something that will one day reward you with life in heaven.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Far from Complete
Philippians 1:6 being confident in this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
I think this is one of my most favorite verses in the Bible. I am grateful that I can be confident that the Lord started something good in me that He will keep building on until Jesus' return. I am especially grateful for this knowledge on days when I know I messed up. It is always the times when I have been way less than the person I know I am called to be that I need, more than anything, to know that despite myself, God still loves me and made a way for me. He still has a plan. He is still working on me.
He sure has His work cut out for Him...
I think this is one of my most favorite verses in the Bible. I am grateful that I can be confident that the Lord started something good in me that He will keep building on until Jesus' return. I am especially grateful for this knowledge on days when I know I messed up. It is always the times when I have been way less than the person I know I am called to be that I need, more than anything, to know that despite myself, God still loves me and made a way for me. He still has a plan. He is still working on me.
He sure has His work cut out for Him...
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Shield of Faith
Ephesians 6:16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
I never really thought of the testing that comes from the devil being in the form of flaming arrows. But the analogy is so true. Satan aims right for our hearts. He wants to break our faith in God. He wants to make us think that we cannot trust in our Lord because bad things are happening.
I used to think there might be one thing that would test my faith in the Lord, that would weaken or even break my "shield of faith." But I guess my shield has grown larger and is made of good material because I find myself feeling strong in Him. I have questions, sometimes a lot of them. And sometimes I just plain admit that I don't know what the Lord's plan is. Why does He let us go through hard things, things that even make us feel mad at Him? But my faith in Him is strong. I still believe He is the God He said He is in the Bible. I believe He loved me so much He gave His own Son for me, and who would do that, but someone of great character and love?
I believe that I have indeed, put out arrows sent from the evil one. And I also know that just because I am a Christian and I love God does not mean that my life will be peaches and cream. In fact, I think the opposite; I think the Lord gives/allows opportunities to grow our faith to those who can take being stretched. And so I wait for Him to show me my next move. And I keep preparing my shield for battle. I want to be ready when either the good or the bad happens. I want to show that my Lord has prepared me for battle; that His might power and His strength is alive in me.
I never really thought of the testing that comes from the devil being in the form of flaming arrows. But the analogy is so true. Satan aims right for our hearts. He wants to break our faith in God. He wants to make us think that we cannot trust in our Lord because bad things are happening.
I used to think there might be one thing that would test my faith in the Lord, that would weaken or even break my "shield of faith." But I guess my shield has grown larger and is made of good material because I find myself feeling strong in Him. I have questions, sometimes a lot of them. And sometimes I just plain admit that I don't know what the Lord's plan is. Why does He let us go through hard things, things that even make us feel mad at Him? But my faith in Him is strong. I still believe He is the God He said He is in the Bible. I believe He loved me so much He gave His own Son for me, and who would do that, but someone of great character and love?
I believe that I have indeed, put out arrows sent from the evil one. And I also know that just because I am a Christian and I love God does not mean that my life will be peaches and cream. In fact, I think the opposite; I think the Lord gives/allows opportunities to grow our faith to those who can take being stretched. And so I wait for Him to show me my next move. And I keep preparing my shield for battle. I want to be ready when either the good or the bad happens. I want to show that my Lord has prepared me for battle; that His might power and His strength is alive in me.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Given to be a Teacher
Ephesians 4:11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up...
I decided to be a nurse and not a teacher. Those were the two things I was thinking of way back when. Fast forward 10 years. And then we moved to the Azores. And I got involved in the Awana program on this base, we decided to homeschool the boys, and I taught preschool vacation Bible school (VBS). I am certainly not a teacher in the public school, large classroom kind of way. But I can see, in a whole new way how hard teachers have to work to actually get the kids to learn. I think the reason they are able to put forth the effort has got to be because they fall in love with the children.
I love my boys more than anything. We decided to homeschool for many different reasons, but I must admit that I am thankful that next year I know I will not have to send Jackson off to kindergarten without me. We have so much fun together, learning and playing and crafting. I simply cannot imagine my day without him in it. And seeing Max's interest sparked by reading and doing puzzles and playing games with us is so much fun. And it is also fun to see how they are similar and different.
I have also fallen in love with the kids in Awana, many of which then become the kids in VBS. This year with them so far has been so exciting. They have a great group of leaders who want to teach them God's love for them by teaching them what the Bible says about it. These kids light up a room. They can also create a storm in a room pretty quickly, lol. But it is rewarding and joy-filled to see them growing up and learning, becoming more self-controlled and more kind. I have the fun job of giving them their awards in front of the group at the end of the night, and giving them the opportunity to say their Bible verses to show off their knowledge.
And I am learning from them. That takes the fun to another level. I get to see and learn more about my heavenly Father through these kids and the leaders that come to teach. The Lord may have given me to be a teacher in these areas, but He has also given me the great gift of learning to be more childlike and knowing Him more intimately through this experience. There is so much more I need to know and learn, but I pray the Lord is getting what He wanted from me. I know He is sending me people who are teaching me and building me up as a leader, who are directing my steps in so many ways so that our act of serving these kids will ultimately bring God the glory. I am so thankful that He provides what we need in every way, even when we do not know we need it.
I decided to be a nurse and not a teacher. Those were the two things I was thinking of way back when. Fast forward 10 years. And then we moved to the Azores. And I got involved in the Awana program on this base, we decided to homeschool the boys, and I taught preschool vacation Bible school (VBS). I am certainly not a teacher in the public school, large classroom kind of way. But I can see, in a whole new way how hard teachers have to work to actually get the kids to learn. I think the reason they are able to put forth the effort has got to be because they fall in love with the children.
I love my boys more than anything. We decided to homeschool for many different reasons, but I must admit that I am thankful that next year I know I will not have to send Jackson off to kindergarten without me. We have so much fun together, learning and playing and crafting. I simply cannot imagine my day without him in it. And seeing Max's interest sparked by reading and doing puzzles and playing games with us is so much fun. And it is also fun to see how they are similar and different.
I have also fallen in love with the kids in Awana, many of which then become the kids in VBS. This year with them so far has been so exciting. They have a great group of leaders who want to teach them God's love for them by teaching them what the Bible says about it. These kids light up a room. They can also create a storm in a room pretty quickly, lol. But it is rewarding and joy-filled to see them growing up and learning, becoming more self-controlled and more kind. I have the fun job of giving them their awards in front of the group at the end of the night, and giving them the opportunity to say their Bible verses to show off their knowledge.
And I am learning from them. That takes the fun to another level. I get to see and learn more about my heavenly Father through these kids and the leaders that come to teach. The Lord may have given me to be a teacher in these areas, but He has also given me the great gift of learning to be more childlike and knowing Him more intimately through this experience. There is so much more I need to know and learn, but I pray the Lord is getting what He wanted from me. I know He is sending me people who are teaching me and building me up as a leader, who are directing my steps in so many ways so that our act of serving these kids will ultimately bring God the glory. I am so thankful that He provides what we need in every way, even when we do not know we need it.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
A Christmas Wish
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I like being reminded that the Lord had me in mind. He created me just the way I am and He knew that one day I would love Him with my whole heart. He knew that love would blossom into a desire to see this world be a better place.
My heart is broken about so many things in this world. We can look around us and see poverty and need in so many places. Sometimes we don't want to see. Sometimes we don't want to know about it. I cannot remember what Mike and I were talking about, but it was on our trip to the states this past summer when he said something about it being hard to know/grasp that the water in our toilets is much cleaner than the water many people around the world drink and bathe in. Our toilets.
But it is true. And sad.
I have gotten a late start on this Christmas wish, but it could work nonetheless. What I would love for Christmas is if our family and friends would come together with enough money to dig a well somewhere around the world. It costs $2600 to do this.
http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpItmDspRte.jsp?section=10373&item=170
But if everyone I knew gave just a little it could happen. I know that I know enough people. And I know everyone has a lot going on in their lives... But it is about sacrifice sometimes to help someone who needs. This is the type of thing that saves lives. 4,000 kids die every day because they do not have clean water.
If you are interested in contributing to this Christmas wish, please send me a personal email... And we can actually do it, together. Would it not be a great feeling to wake up Christmas morning knowing that somewhere around the world a child probably has LIFE and HEALTH because of your giving? Not that it necessarily matters to you, but it would make my year!!
If God is for us who can be against us?
I like being reminded that the Lord had me in mind. He created me just the way I am and He knew that one day I would love Him with my whole heart. He knew that love would blossom into a desire to see this world be a better place.
My heart is broken about so many things in this world. We can look around us and see poverty and need in so many places. Sometimes we don't want to see. Sometimes we don't want to know about it. I cannot remember what Mike and I were talking about, but it was on our trip to the states this past summer when he said something about it being hard to know/grasp that the water in our toilets is much cleaner than the water many people around the world drink and bathe in. Our toilets.
But it is true. And sad.
I have gotten a late start on this Christmas wish, but it could work nonetheless. What I would love for Christmas is if our family and friends would come together with enough money to dig a well somewhere around the world. It costs $2600 to do this.
http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpItmDspRte.jsp?section=10373&item=170
But if everyone I knew gave just a little it could happen. I know that I know enough people. And I know everyone has a lot going on in their lives... But it is about sacrifice sometimes to help someone who needs. This is the type of thing that saves lives. 4,000 kids die every day because they do not have clean water.
If you are interested in contributing to this Christmas wish, please send me a personal email... And we can actually do it, together. Would it not be a great feeling to wake up Christmas morning knowing that somewhere around the world a child probably has LIFE and HEALTH because of your giving? Not that it necessarily matters to you, but it would make my year!!
If God is for us who can be against us?
Twelve years
So here I am trying to get back into the Word and back into journaling... I often go through times when I feel like this is something I should be doing, but I think I push that feeling/knowledge aside because there are so many other things to do in a day. But I will take it one day at a time and see if I can allow myself the time to be with the Lord and hash out what is in my head.
There is so much going on every day in my life, mostly little daily life things. I love that. But it is crazy how busy the little things can make you feel. My in-laws came to visit a couple weeks ago. It was wonderful and fun having them here. And while they were here, I slept. I let some of the things I want to do go undone in leiu of sleep. I got at least 8 hours of sleep just about every night. And then I continued with that. The problem is that I really need to get up before the boys, just to be able to have some time of concentrated reading/prayer/writing without them needing me for things. And I really know that I need this time with my Lord and Savior. Period.
This morning, I was reading from Luke 8:43 "And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. 44 She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped."
And I am sitting here thinking, Twelve years??? How does someone go through 12 years of something like that? The reality is that people do it all the time. There are many people out there who have chronic illnesses or conditions that they deal with on a daily basis, with no ones cloak to reach for.
Lately I have some of my own stuff going on that made me say, "Lord, I wish you were here right now, so I could just touch the edge of your cloak." Don't you ever just wish that after so long of dealing with something that the solution would come, just like that, just like touching the edge of a King's cloak? My "stuff" is small potatoes compared to what some others go or have gone through. But I want healing just the same.
That desire for healing makes me long for the day when all our tears will be wiped away and there will be no more pain. I joke that I hope Jesus returns before my kids are teens (because the teenage years have me scared in advance, lol). But really, how awesome would it be to know that they would experience only heaven, with our Heavenly Father and the Son and none of the bad, hard stuff that comes with this life? I know the Lord has great plans for them... and they will handle whatever He brings to their lives, just like I have so far done. But no more tears? No more pain? In heaven with Christ forever? That would be a reality worth giving this life for or at least reaching for the edge of a King's cloak.
There is so much going on every day in my life, mostly little daily life things. I love that. But it is crazy how busy the little things can make you feel. My in-laws came to visit a couple weeks ago. It was wonderful and fun having them here. And while they were here, I slept. I let some of the things I want to do go undone in leiu of sleep. I got at least 8 hours of sleep just about every night. And then I continued with that. The problem is that I really need to get up before the boys, just to be able to have some time of concentrated reading/prayer/writing without them needing me for things. And I really know that I need this time with my Lord and Savior. Period.
This morning, I was reading from Luke 8:43 "And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. 44 She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped."
And I am sitting here thinking, Twelve years??? How does someone go through 12 years of something like that? The reality is that people do it all the time. There are many people out there who have chronic illnesses or conditions that they deal with on a daily basis, with no ones cloak to reach for.
Lately I have some of my own stuff going on that made me say, "Lord, I wish you were here right now, so I could just touch the edge of your cloak." Don't you ever just wish that after so long of dealing with something that the solution would come, just like that, just like touching the edge of a King's cloak? My "stuff" is small potatoes compared to what some others go or have gone through. But I want healing just the same.
That desire for healing makes me long for the day when all our tears will be wiped away and there will be no more pain. I joke that I hope Jesus returns before my kids are teens (because the teenage years have me scared in advance, lol). But really, how awesome would it be to know that they would experience only heaven, with our Heavenly Father and the Son and none of the bad, hard stuff that comes with this life? I know the Lord has great plans for them... and they will handle whatever He brings to their lives, just like I have so far done. But no more tears? No more pain? In heaven with Christ forever? That would be a reality worth giving this life for or at least reaching for the edge of a King's cloak.
Monday, June 11, 2012
1 John 5:12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
I think back on my life before Jesus really made sense to me. I always had the faith to believe that He was God, that He came in human form and died on the cross for my sins. I did not understand though, that He died so I could have relationship with God the Father and live this life with the Holy Spirit in me. I did not understand the depth of His love for me; I felt so unworthy of that. And I am. But He gives grace, undeserved favor, to those who believe in His name, who believe and desire His salvation.
There was a time I went to church (when I was looking for Jesus), and I felt His presence so deeply, like He was actually wrapping His arms around me and showing me that if I wanted, we could do this life together. I had to let Him break me down to build me up. And omgoodness! I am sure He thought that was quite a process, stubborn as I am, going back and making the same mistakes and bad decisions over and over again.
But through that sometimes painful, sometimes joyful process God showed me Himself. He showed me His unconditional love through His Son, His Word, and His actual presence in every detail of my life. He showed me that I really can be content in all things, as His Word says. He continually shows me the person I want to be and gives me opportunities to grow into and be that person. I don't always do well with what He gives me to do. In fact, I am sure He sometimes must think, "You really messed that up." Sometimes I have no idea what He is trying to teach me/tell me. But I am sure of His love and His salvation. Because He gave me so much, my desire is to obey what His Word says and live the way Jesus lived. I believe my salvation, my place in heaven, is sure. But I am so grateful for this other knowledge: that I want God my Father to know and see that I am doing my best to live His way because of His love for me. I want Him to know that I have finally come to the place where I believe His way is best. He did not have to, but He chose to prove that to me. I am so thankful for His love. I want to live in that love and give that love.
I think back on my life before Jesus really made sense to me. I always had the faith to believe that He was God, that He came in human form and died on the cross for my sins. I did not understand though, that He died so I could have relationship with God the Father and live this life with the Holy Spirit in me. I did not understand the depth of His love for me; I felt so unworthy of that. And I am. But He gives grace, undeserved favor, to those who believe in His name, who believe and desire His salvation.
There was a time I went to church (when I was looking for Jesus), and I felt His presence so deeply, like He was actually wrapping His arms around me and showing me that if I wanted, we could do this life together. I had to let Him break me down to build me up. And omgoodness! I am sure He thought that was quite a process, stubborn as I am, going back and making the same mistakes and bad decisions over and over again.
But through that sometimes painful, sometimes joyful process God showed me Himself. He showed me His unconditional love through His Son, His Word, and His actual presence in every detail of my life. He showed me that I really can be content in all things, as His Word says. He continually shows me the person I want to be and gives me opportunities to grow into and be that person. I don't always do well with what He gives me to do. In fact, I am sure He sometimes must think, "You really messed that up." Sometimes I have no idea what He is trying to teach me/tell me. But I am sure of His love and His salvation. Because He gave me so much, my desire is to obey what His Word says and live the way Jesus lived. I believe my salvation, my place in heaven, is sure. But I am so grateful for this other knowledge: that I want God my Father to know and see that I am doing my best to live His way because of His love for me. I want Him to know that I have finally come to the place where I believe His way is best. He did not have to, but He chose to prove that to me. I am so thankful for His love. I want to live in that love and give that love.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
John 15: 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other.
Friends. Best friends. Jesus chose me to be His friend. He has made the Father's love known to me through His death on the cross and His residence in my life. And He is teaching me more of what that love looks like every day. In this love, I have found peace, joy, contentment, and freedom. I have moments of comparing what I have to what others have. I have moments where I want more. I have moments where I wonder what God is doing with my life, what are His purposes for me? But at the end of the day, I come back to His love and His Word and I remember that He has already given me abundant life in Him (and He has also blessed me in my natural life). And while those moments may come back to me on and off, it gets easier every day I live my life with Jesus, to be thankful for what I have rather than wanting what I do not.
In those times of thanks, which come more and more frequently with practice (thank you Ann Voskamp and "One Thousand Gifts"), I feel and know that I am connected to the greatest gift ever given. Life. This makes me determined to live the life I have to the fullest. To give grace lavishly. To serve humbly and to serve many. To be the detail that the Lord uses to show Himself in someone else's life.
Life is hard. And we have a lot of questions. But we have (or can have) a friend in Jesus. I don't even know what the rest of today will hold. But I know I have Jesus through it and His love will sustain me. I have never been more thankful for anything that His calling of me and being lead to Him. I find joy in that at this moment.
Friends. Best friends. Jesus chose me to be His friend. He has made the Father's love known to me through His death on the cross and His residence in my life. And He is teaching me more of what that love looks like every day. In this love, I have found peace, joy, contentment, and freedom. I have moments of comparing what I have to what others have. I have moments where I want more. I have moments where I wonder what God is doing with my life, what are His purposes for me? But at the end of the day, I come back to His love and His Word and I remember that He has already given me abundant life in Him (and He has also blessed me in my natural life). And while those moments may come back to me on and off, it gets easier every day I live my life with Jesus, to be thankful for what I have rather than wanting what I do not.
In those times of thanks, which come more and more frequently with practice (thank you Ann Voskamp and "One Thousand Gifts"), I feel and know that I am connected to the greatest gift ever given. Life. This makes me determined to live the life I have to the fullest. To give grace lavishly. To serve humbly and to serve many. To be the detail that the Lord uses to show Himself in someone else's life.
Life is hard. And we have a lot of questions. But we have (or can have) a friend in Jesus. I don't even know what the rest of today will hold. But I know I have Jesus through it and His love will sustain me. I have never been more thankful for anything that His calling of me and being lead to Him. I find joy in that at this moment.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us to good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Sometimes I forget to pray that the Holy Spirit will keep taking up more of my heart, but that is surely what I want. I want to be person that lives out and has in her the fruits of the Spirit. I want to be that mom, wife, daughter and friend. But when I look at this list, I realize again how much I lack. But I am okay with that. I love this list. Just reading it to myself makes me feel peaceful and calm, with a knowledge that the Lord has it under control and He is growing me and changing me into a person with these qualities. The more I fall in love with Him, the more I know I am coming to a big harvest one day because He is the one working in me.
I especially want this list to come to mind in the hard moments. When I feel any kind of lack in my life or heart I want to remember that the Lord is filling me up with these things, growing me in the challenges and teaching me to be more like Him. I want to be able to let go of my own desires and allow Him to place in me what He has for me. I want to remember that while I might not understand the "whys" of this life, I can still allow the Lord to give me the Fruits of the Spirit in those hard times.
I want Him to feed my soul and spirit and right now, in this moment, I am so glad that is exactly what His Word does.
Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us to good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Sometimes I forget to pray that the Holy Spirit will keep taking up more of my heart, but that is surely what I want. I want to be person that lives out and has in her the fruits of the Spirit. I want to be that mom, wife, daughter and friend. But when I look at this list, I realize again how much I lack. But I am okay with that. I love this list. Just reading it to myself makes me feel peaceful and calm, with a knowledge that the Lord has it under control and He is growing me and changing me into a person with these qualities. The more I fall in love with Him, the more I know I am coming to a big harvest one day because He is the one working in me.
I especially want this list to come to mind in the hard moments. When I feel any kind of lack in my life or heart I want to remember that the Lord is filling me up with these things, growing me in the challenges and teaching me to be more like Him. I want to be able to let go of my own desires and allow Him to place in me what He has for me. I want to remember that while I might not understand the "whys" of this life, I can still allow the Lord to give me the Fruits of the Spirit in those hard times.
I want Him to feed my soul and spirit and right now, in this moment, I am so glad that is exactly what His Word does.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Galatians 4:16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?
4:20 how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!
Paul was writing to the Galatians, whom he had previously visited and preached to, teaching them the life-saving grace of Jesus Christ. And then they fell away from Paul's teaching. Oh, how often I fear this happens to me! And then Paul writes to them to set them straight. He seems to believe they might turn completely away from him because he is calling out the wrong they are partaking in (although I think his question was rhetorical; the people he was writing to had not actually disassociated from him.)
This just made me think how hard it is to hear criticism/truth. I have come to a place where, at least in my mind, I want to hear it. I want to grow and be a better Christian, one who actually looks like Jesus, who loves like Jesus, and sometimes the only way to do that is to hear, repent of, and change the sin in our lives or the not-so-great things about ourselves. I can think of a few opportunities that have been presented to me in the months just since moving to the Azores. These times have given me the opportunity to examine myself and ask tough questions. And even though sometimes I know I would like to change, I wonder sometimes if I am capable. I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, but I still have moments where I wonder, "Why did I just do that/ say that?" when it was something I had resolved to work on.
When I got to verse 20, I almost laughed out loud. Paul says he wishes he could be with these people. How often I think that same thing when I want to talk about something deep with someone! I feel that criticism and deep thoughts are just so much better said in person, albeit sometimes much more uncomfortable. But how the end of the conversation might end--with a hug or moving onto another topic that is lighter, or with a cup of coffee and some time to share other things about life... well, I just always want that. I know for myself that I shy away from talking about deep stuff over the phone (where it relates to me in a personal way anyhow). Paul says he was perplexed! I can totally identify.
Paul was a normal guy in many ways: he had normal emotions for one thing. He loved people, but they perplexed him sometimes. He wanted to see fruit in their lives and he knew that was not happening. I often perplex myself in the same way. So I just have to stop and ask myself again and again and pray again and again for help: where is that fruit? what was it I wanted to change? how am I doing? what do I need to do differently? what will make me more like Jesus? I hope that the Lord will continue to grow me and show me. Every day I only want to be more like Him.
4:20 how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!
Paul was writing to the Galatians, whom he had previously visited and preached to, teaching them the life-saving grace of Jesus Christ. And then they fell away from Paul's teaching. Oh, how often I fear this happens to me! And then Paul writes to them to set them straight. He seems to believe they might turn completely away from him because he is calling out the wrong they are partaking in (although I think his question was rhetorical; the people he was writing to had not actually disassociated from him.)
This just made me think how hard it is to hear criticism/truth. I have come to a place where, at least in my mind, I want to hear it. I want to grow and be a better Christian, one who actually looks like Jesus, who loves like Jesus, and sometimes the only way to do that is to hear, repent of, and change the sin in our lives or the not-so-great things about ourselves. I can think of a few opportunities that have been presented to me in the months just since moving to the Azores. These times have given me the opportunity to examine myself and ask tough questions. And even though sometimes I know I would like to change, I wonder sometimes if I am capable. I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, but I still have moments where I wonder, "Why did I just do that/ say that?" when it was something I had resolved to work on.
When I got to verse 20, I almost laughed out loud. Paul says he wishes he could be with these people. How often I think that same thing when I want to talk about something deep with someone! I feel that criticism and deep thoughts are just so much better said in person, albeit sometimes much more uncomfortable. But how the end of the conversation might end--with a hug or moving onto another topic that is lighter, or with a cup of coffee and some time to share other things about life... well, I just always want that. I know for myself that I shy away from talking about deep stuff over the phone (where it relates to me in a personal way anyhow). Paul says he was perplexed! I can totally identify.
Paul was a normal guy in many ways: he had normal emotions for one thing. He loved people, but they perplexed him sometimes. He wanted to see fruit in their lives and he knew that was not happening. I often perplex myself in the same way. So I just have to stop and ask myself again and again and pray again and again for help: where is that fruit? what was it I wanted to change? how am I doing? what do I need to do differently? what will make me more like Jesus? I hope that the Lord will continue to grow me and show me. Every day I only want to be more like Him.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray continually
Matthew 6:9 This then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name..."
Another reason I want the boys to know Scripture is because it teaches us how to pray and encourages us to do so. I would love to inspire them that if they are thinking of someone or worried about something, to recall the Scripture that says to pray continually. I want them to know they do not have to be at the dinner table or kneeling by their beds to talk with the Lord. They can just tell Him what they are thinking right then and there. And also, if they memorize the Lord's Prayer one day, they will have a guideline for the things God wants to hear from them about. He wants to hear their praise, He wants them to be in line with His will, to ask for what they need for the day and for forgiveness of their sins, and for the strength to get through temptations and hard times.
2 Corinthians 2:17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.
2 Corinthians 4:2 Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.
I really do not know what took me to these scriptures, but when I read them, I thought: one way to speak before God with sincerity and to not distort His word is to speak it/pray it to Him literally. My friend brought up the fact that our translations do not always give us the entire meaning/picture of what Scripture is actually saying. I think that is true, and I hope that the boys grow into young men who will delve deeper into the meaning of the original Scripture. I know that every time I do that, I feel more connected with what God was actually saying and I have a greater understanding of His Word. Also though, the Lord knows our hearts. If we are praying His Word, as we know it, back to Him with a sincere heart, seeking Him, then He will bless that. If we know His Word literally and we can bring it to mind, then we will know what to pray and we will know what we are praying for/asking for is in line with God's Word.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given to you.
Jesus tells us that He wants His words to remain in us. He does not say "the concept of me" or "the concept of my words." I tried to look up any extra meaning about this, but the internet was not very helpful this morning and I am running out of time. I also tried to look on E-sword, but I think I need to explore that a little more and figure out how to use it, lol. One of those things that is on my list. Time flies when I sit down to study, read, or figure out how to do/use something! Anyhow, back to the topic. Jesus was talking about Him being the Vine and us remaining in Him, meaning we need Him in order to have what we wish. And, if we know His words, they are in us, then what we wish will line up with what Jesus can/will give. I want that for my boys: to be in line with God and to have His purpose fulfilled in their lives. There is not a doubt in my mind that if they live for Christ, whether or not it looks like it to all the rest of us, their hearts will have joy.
OMGoodness!!! If you can believe this there is still more! For another day though... Much Love,
Carla
Matthew 6:9 This then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name..."
Another reason I want the boys to know Scripture is because it teaches us how to pray and encourages us to do so. I would love to inspire them that if they are thinking of someone or worried about something, to recall the Scripture that says to pray continually. I want them to know they do not have to be at the dinner table or kneeling by their beds to talk with the Lord. They can just tell Him what they are thinking right then and there. And also, if they memorize the Lord's Prayer one day, they will have a guideline for the things God wants to hear from them about. He wants to hear their praise, He wants them to be in line with His will, to ask for what they need for the day and for forgiveness of their sins, and for the strength to get through temptations and hard times.
2 Corinthians 2:17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.
2 Corinthians 4:2 Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.
I really do not know what took me to these scriptures, but when I read them, I thought: one way to speak before God with sincerity and to not distort His word is to speak it/pray it to Him literally. My friend brought up the fact that our translations do not always give us the entire meaning/picture of what Scripture is actually saying. I think that is true, and I hope that the boys grow into young men who will delve deeper into the meaning of the original Scripture. I know that every time I do that, I feel more connected with what God was actually saying and I have a greater understanding of His Word. Also though, the Lord knows our hearts. If we are praying His Word, as we know it, back to Him with a sincere heart, seeking Him, then He will bless that. If we know His Word literally and we can bring it to mind, then we will know what to pray and we will know what we are praying for/asking for is in line with God's Word.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be given to you.
Jesus tells us that He wants His words to remain in us. He does not say "the concept of me" or "the concept of my words." I tried to look up any extra meaning about this, but the internet was not very helpful this morning and I am running out of time. I also tried to look on E-sword, but I think I need to explore that a little more and figure out how to use it, lol. One of those things that is on my list. Time flies when I sit down to study, read, or figure out how to do/use something! Anyhow, back to the topic. Jesus was talking about Him being the Vine and us remaining in Him, meaning we need Him in order to have what we wish. And, if we know His words, they are in us, then what we wish will line up with what Jesus can/will give. I want that for my boys: to be in line with God and to have His purpose fulfilled in their lives. There is not a doubt in my mind that if they live for Christ, whether or not it looks like it to all the rest of us, their hearts will have joy.
OMGoodness!!! If you can believe this there is still more! For another day though... Much Love,
Carla
Monday, January 23, 2012
This is a post I never moved from my email, written just after the first of the year.
Matthew 25:46 "These people will go off to be punished forever, but the good people will go off to live forever." (NCV)
So, I don't actually have anything to say about this verse directly. It got me to thinking though, about how we often don't want to believe what the Bible is saying to us. We want to mold God into what we want Him to be. We want to believe that we don't need a Savior, that we are inherently good. We want to believe that hell does not exist...
I am, of course, juggling many balls. I am trying to finish up reading a controversial book, which then took me to other places to get answers to the questions I had after reading it. Then, that leads me to other places and I am on the internet for hours, browsing sites that I found interesting, convicting, or that I feel like I am learning something from. Today, I just got a reminder that started with a question: will I humbly believe in God's Word, even when I do not fully understand it every bit of it? Well, I suppose I have trouble with the idea of believing what I do not fully understand... However, God does state, through Jesus and the other inspired writers of the Word, that He is mysterious and that we will never fully know Him in this lifetime, but that He is holy, worthy of praise and trust. And with that, for me, comes comfort. I believe He is holy, worthy of praise and trust because I believe He sent His Son to die on the cross for us, that none who accepts the gift of His death on the cross should perish.
I believe that the Bible, all of it, is true. I believe that there are many, many people out there who have read and understand much more of it that I do. And so, I will take the time to read myself, to learn from them, and also to pray that God reveals to me what He wants me to know and see in His Word. I will ask that the Lord provide me the ability to trust Him, even when His Word says something hard to take in or that I do not understand. I am beyond the first hurdle: I have believed in Jesus death and resurrection, in His deity. I have believed in Him as my Savior... I have no trouble believing in supernatural things, and Jesus resurrection was certainly that. I have believed in something pretty unbelievalble:) I think I can keep doing more of the same, as I keep reading and delving more into God's holy Word.
Enjoy God and His Word in 2012 my friends!! Happy New Year!
Matthew 25:46 "These people will go off to be punished forever, but the good people will go off to live forever." (NCV)
So, I don't actually have anything to say about this verse directly. It got me to thinking though, about how we often don't want to believe what the Bible is saying to us. We want to mold God into what we want Him to be. We want to believe that we don't need a Savior, that we are inherently good. We want to believe that hell does not exist...
I am, of course, juggling many balls. I am trying to finish up reading a controversial book, which then took me to other places to get answers to the questions I had after reading it. Then, that leads me to other places and I am on the internet for hours, browsing sites that I found interesting, convicting, or that I feel like I am learning something from. Today, I just got a reminder that started with a question: will I humbly believe in God's Word, even when I do not fully understand it every bit of it? Well, I suppose I have trouble with the idea of believing what I do not fully understand... However, God does state, through Jesus and the other inspired writers of the Word, that He is mysterious and that we will never fully know Him in this lifetime, but that He is holy, worthy of praise and trust. And with that, for me, comes comfort. I believe He is holy, worthy of praise and trust because I believe He sent His Son to die on the cross for us, that none who accepts the gift of His death on the cross should perish.
I believe that the Bible, all of it, is true. I believe that there are many, many people out there who have read and understand much more of it that I do. And so, I will take the time to read myself, to learn from them, and also to pray that God reveals to me what He wants me to know and see in His Word. I will ask that the Lord provide me the ability to trust Him, even when His Word says something hard to take in or that I do not understand. I am beyond the first hurdle: I have believed in Jesus death and resurrection, in His deity. I have believed in Him as my Savior... I have no trouble believing in supernatural things, and Jesus resurrection was certainly that. I have believed in something pretty unbelievalble:) I think I can keep doing more of the same, as I keep reading and delving more into God's holy Word.
Enjoy God and His Word in 2012 my friends!! Happy New Year!
Isaiah 55:11 So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
I have a friend who knows about all the "school stuff" the boys and I are doing every week. One of the things we do are letter boards, each week focusing on the next letter of the alphabet. And we have taken some breaks in between and done a Thanksgiving and Christmas board. Each week I put scripture on the board and the boys and I memorize it. Then, we decorate the rest of the board with fun things related to the letter of the week. For example, for our "G" week, we decorated letter G's with glitter and made little goldfish, which we then glued to the board for display. As you might imagine, little kids love displaying their work.
This week my friend asked me why I think it is so important the boys memorize scripture and why it is so important to me in any personal way. I explained the best I could there in person, in that moment. But when I came home I ended up being so happy she asked the question. I think my answers in that moment were honest and valid. But her question spurred me on to sit down and look into the Bible to see what God actually says about His Word and it's importance. I sat down to do Bible study homework and got into this instead. My own personal Bible study! I was on fire finding scripture that I believe applies to this question. What I loved most about it was that I actually felt like the Lord was right there with me, spurring me on to know Him deeper and to really get my mind around how much He wants to know each one of us...
And that is one of the reasons I want the boys to memorize and know scripture: to know God. I don't think we can ever fully know Him, but His Word gives us the opportunity to relate to Him, to know His character, and to have some insight into His plan for us and His plan for creation.
Hebrews 4:12 For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
I read this verse and then was thinking about how Jesus is called "The Word" in the first part of the book of John. This verse says to me that Jesus is living and active in our lives. Knowing the Word is having access to God through Christ; knowing the Word means knowing His promises to us.
Another reason I cited was that I want them to be able to pray scripture back to the Lord, which is what the scripture from Isaiah is talking about: God's Word will accomplish it's purpose. If we pray it directly back to Him, how much more powerful will that be. And, if we pray it exactly, we will be putting our prayers in line with what God's Word actually says, and not twisting it to fit our own desires.
Next, I want them to have God's Word written on their hearts and in their minds, so it will come to them whenever they need strength, comfort, wisdom, patience, and the list goes on...
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.
You cannot turn from something you have memorized. Many times stuff we learn as children comes back to us at the strangest times. I want the Lord to be able to use what I have taught the boys from His Word in their lives, whenever they need it.
Psalm 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
Deuteronomy 11:18 Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols to your hands and bind them on your foreheads.
I have a friend who knows about all the "school stuff" the boys and I are doing every week. One of the things we do are letter boards, each week focusing on the next letter of the alphabet. And we have taken some breaks in between and done a Thanksgiving and Christmas board. Each week I put scripture on the board and the boys and I memorize it. Then, we decorate the rest of the board with fun things related to the letter of the week. For example, for our "G" week, we decorated letter G's with glitter and made little goldfish, which we then glued to the board for display. As you might imagine, little kids love displaying their work.
This week my friend asked me why I think it is so important the boys memorize scripture and why it is so important to me in any personal way. I explained the best I could there in person, in that moment. But when I came home I ended up being so happy she asked the question. I think my answers in that moment were honest and valid. But her question spurred me on to sit down and look into the Bible to see what God actually says about His Word and it's importance. I sat down to do Bible study homework and got into this instead. My own personal Bible study! I was on fire finding scripture that I believe applies to this question. What I loved most about it was that I actually felt like the Lord was right there with me, spurring me on to know Him deeper and to really get my mind around how much He wants to know each one of us...
And that is one of the reasons I want the boys to memorize and know scripture: to know God. I don't think we can ever fully know Him, but His Word gives us the opportunity to relate to Him, to know His character, and to have some insight into His plan for us and His plan for creation.
Hebrews 4:12 For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
I read this verse and then was thinking about how Jesus is called "The Word" in the first part of the book of John. This verse says to me that Jesus is living and active in our lives. Knowing the Word is having access to God through Christ; knowing the Word means knowing His promises to us.
Another reason I cited was that I want them to be able to pray scripture back to the Lord, which is what the scripture from Isaiah is talking about: God's Word will accomplish it's purpose. If we pray it directly back to Him, how much more powerful will that be. And, if we pray it exactly, we will be putting our prayers in line with what God's Word actually says, and not twisting it to fit our own desires.
Next, I want them to have God's Word written on their hearts and in their minds, so it will come to them whenever they need strength, comfort, wisdom, patience, and the list goes on...
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.
You cannot turn from something you have memorized. Many times stuff we learn as children comes back to us at the strangest times. I want the Lord to be able to use what I have taught the boys from His Word in their lives, whenever they need it.
Psalm 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
Deuteronomy 11:18 Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols to your hands and bind them on your foreheads.
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