As I sat at the computer this morning, I knew what I was going to write about. I already had it prepared. You see, I believe these postings are God inspired and I take credit for nothing. When God brings something to mind, I simply pull out my iphone and in the note section type in the topic and a few notes.
So, as "I" would have it, I was ready to write on my topic. In order to enter into His presence and prepare, I turned on what has become one of my favorite songs "I Need You More" because I was ready. What I discovered was that God had another plan.
As the song began, I was immediately taken in. I so longed to be in His presence. I needed Him and I needed Him MORE!
More than the air I breath, more than song I sing, more than anything and as I sang with my eyes closed, God reminded me why I needed Him more. Because He does not fail me. The song also says ...I never want to go back to my old life. I don't even want to visit that old life much less be there.
I needed Him more than those failed friendships I still grieve, more than the disappointments, more than the unanswered questions that sometimes linger. I just need Him more.
Not only do I need Him more, I need more of Him. He was so quick to impress upon me that my time has not yet come and I need to remain faithful. Just like God works in my life, the enemy rears his ugly head also. At a time when I am preparing to teach a lesson on jealousy and envy, the enemy redirects my focus taunting me because "I have done nothing and gone nowhere."
That's why this song is so special. This particular version is I need You More by Kim Walker found on YouTube and in it she goes off into her own worship in which she says:
I'm so hungry for more of your presence God
I don't want to stay where I've been
I don't want to camp out and just stay in one place
I want to run deeper into your presence God
because I'm so hungry for so much more of you.
That's where I want to be. I want to be so deep in His presence that all I think, speak and live is Him. To say that I don't struggle with things would be a lie so let's be real. Real is I have questioned my purpose, my direction, my value and that is why I need to stay in His presence.
So many live in a world of mere existance, a facade and they need so much more. That "more" is being in His preesence. It's living a life that is Christ centered where everything revolves around your relationship with Christ.
Think of the times you have said something like "I need you Lord." Perhaps it was in a crisis, a tragedy, a heartbreak, a loss, a financial disappointment....maybe you cried out to God calling on Him to change something or ease your your burden.
Now think of the times you have said "I Need You More." More of your presence, more of your love, more of your word, more of you and less of me.
In talking to God, I have told him this I "need" alot of things in life. I need my family, true friends, a purpose; I need to teach, to learn, to love, I need grace...but above all that, I Need You More.
The law was added so that the trepass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 5:20-21
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Can't see the forest for the trees
As we have driven through our subdivisions and main streets of our communities, we have seen many trees being cut. This is a result of the severe drought we suffered last summer.
My husband told me we would lose one tree and it is one that would have come down anyway. He also told me we would have to identify the trees at my father-in-law's property that would have to be cut down also.
He has a larger place but still, I was expecting about five trees. As I remained inside with my father-in-law, my husband went outside armed with a can of orange spray paint to identify the trees. We chatted for a while before my husband returned and I wondered why he had lingered. How long can it take to identify and mark five trees.
I have to admit, I was not prepared for what I heard. I have seen many, many homes with countless numbers of trees taken down but surely that would not be us. I asked my husband...."How many?" He replied "forty-five." Forty Five? I didn't even know there were that many trees on this property.
As I walked outside, I was overwhelmed at the sight of orange paint indicating which tree had to come down. They had no life, they had no purpose. Now they had become a hazard. You see, hurricane season is quickly coming upon us and with one strong wind, any of those trees could break and cause damage to the home.
The other stunning factor was the cost. I was not prepared for that either. I immediately starting negotiating with my husband. "Can't we save this one?" "Can't we get a third or fourth or tenth quote?" "Do all of them have to go?"
It reminded me of the sins in our life that we don't want to let go of. First, we must make the decision to get rid of the sin in our life, second, we must identify the sin and third, we must just make the decision to do it.
It may come at a cost but the consequences of not "getting rid" of the sin in our life will be more costly in the long run. One can not enter the kingdom of God with sin in their life.
God's Word says "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." [1 John 1:9]
Some of us may be like I was...trying to hold on to every tree, trying to keep the cost down. After all, the more trees I kept, the less the cost; but we can not negotiate with God. He paid the ultimate price.
Had we chosen to hold on to the trees, dead and brittle as they are, the cost in the long run would have been much greater. And so it is with us, should we decide to hold on to sin, the consequences in the long run can be much more costly and devastating.
Sometimes we can't see the forest for the trees. Look at the big picture....when we get rid of the sin in our life, we can see God's beauty and His love for us and the sacrifice that He made to offer us an eternal tomorrow.
Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree can not bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown in the fire. Matthew 7:17-18
My husband told me we would lose one tree and it is one that would have come down anyway. He also told me we would have to identify the trees at my father-in-law's property that would have to be cut down also.
He has a larger place but still, I was expecting about five trees. As I remained inside with my father-in-law, my husband went outside armed with a can of orange spray paint to identify the trees. We chatted for a while before my husband returned and I wondered why he had lingered. How long can it take to identify and mark five trees.
I have to admit, I was not prepared for what I heard. I have seen many, many homes with countless numbers of trees taken down but surely that would not be us. I asked my husband...."How many?" He replied "forty-five." Forty Five? I didn't even know there were that many trees on this property.
As I walked outside, I was overwhelmed at the sight of orange paint indicating which tree had to come down. They had no life, they had no purpose. Now they had become a hazard. You see, hurricane season is quickly coming upon us and with one strong wind, any of those trees could break and cause damage to the home.
The other stunning factor was the cost. I was not prepared for that either. I immediately starting negotiating with my husband. "Can't we save this one?" "Can't we get a third or fourth or tenth quote?" "Do all of them have to go?"
It reminded me of the sins in our life that we don't want to let go of. First, we must make the decision to get rid of the sin in our life, second, we must identify the sin and third, we must just make the decision to do it.
It may come at a cost but the consequences of not "getting rid" of the sin in our life will be more costly in the long run. One can not enter the kingdom of God with sin in their life.
God's Word says "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." [1 John 1:9]
Some of us may be like I was...trying to hold on to every tree, trying to keep the cost down. After all, the more trees I kept, the less the cost; but we can not negotiate with God. He paid the ultimate price.
Had we chosen to hold on to the trees, dead and brittle as they are, the cost in the long run would have been much greater. And so it is with us, should we decide to hold on to sin, the consequences in the long run can be much more costly and devastating.
Sometimes we can't see the forest for the trees. Look at the big picture....when we get rid of the sin in our life, we can see God's beauty and His love for us and the sacrifice that He made to offer us an eternal tomorrow.
Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree can not bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown in the fire. Matthew 7:17-18
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Victory is Near
I suffer from far-sightedness. In my law enforcement days I could see a license plate from way off but often close reading gives me difficulty. I do wear corrective lenses but this morning I was still having difficulty.
I was reading a piece and inadvertantly read "Victory is Neat!" I thought "yes it is." Somehow though, the content of the article did not match the quote. It did however, match my heart.
In my earlier days, one of my favorite pass times was track and field. For a couple of years, I competed in the law enforcement games and received medals in several events. One year we ran the 4 X 100 relay. We had our team set with me running the third leg. We had trained hard but individually. Each one of us depended on the other to carry their own weight. We felt good as we ran together only a couple of times before the event.
Two weeks before the event we lost our second leg of the relay. She did not meet the guidelines for the competition and we were forced to find someone else. A relay that short requires a sprinter and unfortunately, we could not find one. The best we could do was a distance runner who was also competing in the 1600 meter run. She required pacing herself while we gave all we had in the time we had.
Needless to say, our starter put us in the lead but when she got the baton to the second leg, we lost our lead. When she gave me the baton we were dead last.
When we crossed the finish line, the story was different...we won the Gold Medal! Victory was neat! I'll tell you though, I had my doubts. When I got that baton I gave it all I had. I heard my father's words in my head as he had worked with me, inspiring me and cheering me on. I knew my father was watching me in the stands and I would not give up until victory was ours. Our anchor [last leg] brought it home. She crossed that finish line before everyone else and Victory was Neat!
It would have been very easy to get discouraged and simply give up in last place. It would have been easier to just give in but I knew we had it in us. I knew victory was near.
Too many times in life we tend to just give up. We throw in the towel when it looks as if we "have lost."
While this morning I read Victory is Neat....it really said Victory is Near.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls like loosing a member of a relay, financial burdens, losing a family member, or divorce. Regardless of the extent of the circumstances, we can not give up. Even when you feel like you're in last place, have no hope or see no way out....keep believing that Victory is Near.
One day God sent his Son to die on the cross so that we might be saved. Some thought they were lost in sin and without hope but Jesus' death on the cross gave us the victory. Don't fall for the lies of the enemy, run for the finish line that offers eternal life in Christ.
The first person I hugged in victory was my father. Remember this, your father has been at your side all along and He is watching you, He is cheering you on. He knows that Victory is Near! Do not give up because when it is all said and done, and you get to hug your Father, Victory is Neat too!
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15: 55-58
I was reading a piece and inadvertantly read "Victory is Neat!" I thought "yes it is." Somehow though, the content of the article did not match the quote. It did however, match my heart.
In my earlier days, one of my favorite pass times was track and field. For a couple of years, I competed in the law enforcement games and received medals in several events. One year we ran the 4 X 100 relay. We had our team set with me running the third leg. We had trained hard but individually. Each one of us depended on the other to carry their own weight. We felt good as we ran together only a couple of times before the event.
Two weeks before the event we lost our second leg of the relay. She did not meet the guidelines for the competition and we were forced to find someone else. A relay that short requires a sprinter and unfortunately, we could not find one. The best we could do was a distance runner who was also competing in the 1600 meter run. She required pacing herself while we gave all we had in the time we had.
Needless to say, our starter put us in the lead but when she got the baton to the second leg, we lost our lead. When she gave me the baton we were dead last.
When we crossed the finish line, the story was different...we won the Gold Medal! Victory was neat! I'll tell you though, I had my doubts. When I got that baton I gave it all I had. I heard my father's words in my head as he had worked with me, inspiring me and cheering me on. I knew my father was watching me in the stands and I would not give up until victory was ours. Our anchor [last leg] brought it home. She crossed that finish line before everyone else and Victory was Neat!
It would have been very easy to get discouraged and simply give up in last place. It would have been easier to just give in but I knew we had it in us. I knew victory was near.
Too many times in life we tend to just give up. We throw in the towel when it looks as if we "have lost."
While this morning I read Victory is Neat....it really said Victory is Near.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls like loosing a member of a relay, financial burdens, losing a family member, or divorce. Regardless of the extent of the circumstances, we can not give up. Even when you feel like you're in last place, have no hope or see no way out....keep believing that Victory is Near.
One day God sent his Son to die on the cross so that we might be saved. Some thought they were lost in sin and without hope but Jesus' death on the cross gave us the victory. Don't fall for the lies of the enemy, run for the finish line that offers eternal life in Christ.
The first person I hugged in victory was my father. Remember this, your father has been at your side all along and He is watching you, He is cheering you on. He knows that Victory is Near! Do not give up because when it is all said and done, and you get to hug your Father, Victory is Neat too!
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15: 55-58
Sunday, May 27, 2012
No Soldier Stands Alone
Yesterday my husband and I were having dinner at a restaurant. I felt the buzz on my phone indicating that I had an email. It was from my friend, Selena Hendrix. She is former military and was sending an email reminding our bible study class ladies of the importance of Memorial day.
Her email was touching and it prompted me to write. When I am passionate about something, I just write. I started off with a paper napkin, moved onto a pappas gift card folder, the back of a property listing and finally an old computer printed Michael's coupon. Within 30 minutes, I had penned the piece.
My husband was amazed because for me, all else ceased. I had a thought and that developed in the piece I will share with you. I just want to say that there are not enough words to thank those who are currently serving and those who have served in the past. Having a father who was in the 82nd Airborne and a father-in-law who fought in World War II and Korea, I am beyond grateful.
To those who await the arrival of their loved ones, I say to you as well "thank you" Thank you for sharing your loved ones with our country. I pray for safety and remind you that No Soldier Stands Alone.
No soldier stands alone today,
as flags are flying high.
They fight to save our freedom
some had to say good bye.
Your soldier may not be here
he may be far away.
Take comfort in this thought,
He's not alone today.
He may be active combat
or standing at a post,
or thinking of the people,
that he loves the most.
Though miles may separate you
and time just passes on,
Our Lord reassures us-
No soldier stands alone.
We can't be everywhere,
that our soldier is...
But God does keep an eye on him,
after all, *he's His.
So when you see our flag today
Pray for those who fight,
To give us all our freedoms;
to guarantee our rights.
In uniform, he thinks he sees-
a shadow looming near,
that shadow is our Savior,
so soldier do not fear.
Until the tour is over
and he comes marching home,
Today remember this,
No Soldier Stands Alone!
(c) 2012, Diana Barfield-No Soldier Stands Alone, Rights Reserved
*Although the poem is written in the masculine form, Soldier is representative of all the men and women that have served or are currently serving and can be changed to reflect such content.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1-2
Her email was touching and it prompted me to write. When I am passionate about something, I just write. I started off with a paper napkin, moved onto a pappas gift card folder, the back of a property listing and finally an old computer printed Michael's coupon. Within 30 minutes, I had penned the piece.
My husband was amazed because for me, all else ceased. I had a thought and that developed in the piece I will share with you. I just want to say that there are not enough words to thank those who are currently serving and those who have served in the past. Having a father who was in the 82nd Airborne and a father-in-law who fought in World War II and Korea, I am beyond grateful.
To those who await the arrival of their loved ones, I say to you as well "thank you" Thank you for sharing your loved ones with our country. I pray for safety and remind you that No Soldier Stands Alone.
No soldier stands alone today,
as flags are flying high.
They fight to save our freedom
some had to say good bye.
Your soldier may not be here
he may be far away.
Take comfort in this thought,
He's not alone today.
He may be active combat
or standing at a post,
or thinking of the people,
that he loves the most.
Though miles may separate you
and time just passes on,
Our Lord reassures us-
No soldier stands alone.
We can't be everywhere,
that our soldier is...
But God does keep an eye on him,
after all, *he's His.
So when you see our flag today
Pray for those who fight,
To give us all our freedoms;
to guarantee our rights.
In uniform, he thinks he sees-
a shadow looming near,
that shadow is our Savior,
so soldier do not fear.
Until the tour is over
and he comes marching home,
Today remember this,
No Soldier Stands Alone!
(c) 2012, Diana Barfield-No Soldier Stands Alone, Rights Reserved
*Although the poem is written in the masculine form, Soldier is representative of all the men and women that have served or are currently serving and can be changed to reflect such content.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1-2
Friday, May 25, 2012
Train....
This morning I have to report for training. I am a mediator and part of that position is annual training. I thought I would be "done" with going downtown but alas I am not.
I have to join other mediators to get updates on the law, changes in policy and other information that is important to a mediator. I will be returning to the very division I was responsible for as a supervisor.
Why would we need training? Well...because things change. What was relevant back then may not be important now or a change may be very impacting to me. At any rate, training is necessary to access the most up to date information.
You know, the word of God is never changing so one might ask "Why do I have to keep learning?" Well one reason is that we go through seasons. What was important in our 20's may have a completely different meaning in our 40's.
Frankly, at this time in my life, I am find training boring, a waste of time, and inconvienent for me. I have to wake up early, travel downtown, listen to an instructor and spend eight hours tied up at a time when I should be thinking about graduation on Saturday. What an inconvienence! However, I can promise you when I need the information at the next mediation, I will be grateful that I took the time to go to this training session.
Many of may feel that way about "training" in the word of God. We don't have the time, we can't remember what we just read, and many other reasons. However, it is important for us to keep learning. We simply can not go on in life holding on to one verse and think that we will grow. Things change! Life throws new things at us, new scenarios, new situations, new challenges. Where do we go when this happens?
Well, what happens when we don't "train" our hearts and spirit's is that we can tend to get wrapped up in what society says, what reality shows say, or what other's say rather than what the Word of God says. While training may be inconvienent, I want to be at the top of my game. Mediation is too important to me to not have the most current information.
Whether we like it or not, many of us go to a gym, an aerobics class, or other form of physical activity that constitutes "training." Why? Because we want to be healthy, we want to maintain our weight, we want to live longer. We commit the time to do this but when it comes time to commiting to the Word of God, we "see no results" so we find excuses to justify our lack of commitment.
While I train in the gym several times a week, and I train annually in mediation, I must train daily in the Word of God. Our bodies may fade but no one can take what is imbedded in our hearts.
Knowing God's Word is important to survival in today's society so.....I will continue to keep training so that I will always be ready and when the day comes that I am challenged in God's Word.
Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wive's tales; rather train yourselves to be godly for physical training has value-but godliness has value for all things holding promise for both the present life and life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8
I have to join other mediators to get updates on the law, changes in policy and other information that is important to a mediator. I will be returning to the very division I was responsible for as a supervisor.
Why would we need training? Well...because things change. What was relevant back then may not be important now or a change may be very impacting to me. At any rate, training is necessary to access the most up to date information.
You know, the word of God is never changing so one might ask "Why do I have to keep learning?" Well one reason is that we go through seasons. What was important in our 20's may have a completely different meaning in our 40's.
Frankly, at this time in my life, I am find training boring, a waste of time, and inconvienent for me. I have to wake up early, travel downtown, listen to an instructor and spend eight hours tied up at a time when I should be thinking about graduation on Saturday. What an inconvienence! However, I can promise you when I need the information at the next mediation, I will be grateful that I took the time to go to this training session.
Many of may feel that way about "training" in the word of God. We don't have the time, we can't remember what we just read, and many other reasons. However, it is important for us to keep learning. We simply can not go on in life holding on to one verse and think that we will grow. Things change! Life throws new things at us, new scenarios, new situations, new challenges. Where do we go when this happens?
Well, what happens when we don't "train" our hearts and spirit's is that we can tend to get wrapped up in what society says, what reality shows say, or what other's say rather than what the Word of God says. While training may be inconvienent, I want to be at the top of my game. Mediation is too important to me to not have the most current information.
Whether we like it or not, many of us go to a gym, an aerobics class, or other form of physical activity that constitutes "training." Why? Because we want to be healthy, we want to maintain our weight, we want to live longer. We commit the time to do this but when it comes time to commiting to the Word of God, we "see no results" so we find excuses to justify our lack of commitment.
While I train in the gym several times a week, and I train annually in mediation, I must train daily in the Word of God. Our bodies may fade but no one can take what is imbedded in our hearts.
Knowing God's Word is important to survival in today's society so.....I will continue to keep training so that I will always be ready and when the day comes that I am challenged in God's Word.
Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wive's tales; rather train yourselves to be godly for physical training has value-but godliness has value for all things holding promise for both the present life and life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Itsy bitsy spider
Normally by this time I have already posted; however, this not a normal day. Last night we got a phone call from a friend telling us my father-in law was ill.
We had already settled in for bed so we quickly re-grouped and went to his house. We found him in alot of pain and not looking good. He showed us his elbow which was twice the normal size, very red and hot to the touch.
Being that he "listens" to me better, I told him we were taking him to the emergency room. Of course, he argued stating that he was fine and he would make it although his face stated something different. He was torn because he did not want to go yet the concern loomed in his face. I called a friend who is a nurse and whom he greatly trusts. I knew that her opinion would carry weight. It didn't take long before we were in the car and headed to the ER.
The doctor examined him and commented on the status of the infection. In 24 hours, the infection had travelled from his elbow to his wrist and towards his shoulder. My father-in-law said the spider was a brown recluse. Did I mention he is 97 years old?
It began as a tiny sting when he put his robe on and quickly spread to this extreme. Sin is that way. It starts as something simple and small and before we know it, it has infected our entire being. If we do not confess our sin and return to Christ, it can destroy us.
Had my father-in-law known that the spider was in his robe sleeve, I doubt he would have put it on. He would have taken precautions to avoid it. We may not know what temptation lurks around the corner to draw us in, however, there are times we know the danger and we allow ourselves to "go there" anyway.
When we do that, we find ourselves like my father-in-law did...in need of rescuing. Just like there is only one means of dealing with the infection, there is only one means of dealing with sin and that is repentance through the Christ.
Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases....Psalms 103:1-3
[After two ER trips and a follow up, my father-in-law is sore but resting at home.]
We had already settled in for bed so we quickly re-grouped and went to his house. We found him in alot of pain and not looking good. He showed us his elbow which was twice the normal size, very red and hot to the touch.
Being that he "listens" to me better, I told him we were taking him to the emergency room. Of course, he argued stating that he was fine and he would make it although his face stated something different. He was torn because he did not want to go yet the concern loomed in his face. I called a friend who is a nurse and whom he greatly trusts. I knew that her opinion would carry weight. It didn't take long before we were in the car and headed to the ER.
The doctor examined him and commented on the status of the infection. In 24 hours, the infection had travelled from his elbow to his wrist and towards his shoulder. My father-in-law said the spider was a brown recluse. Did I mention he is 97 years old?
It began as a tiny sting when he put his robe on and quickly spread to this extreme. Sin is that way. It starts as something simple and small and before we know it, it has infected our entire being. If we do not confess our sin and return to Christ, it can destroy us.
Had my father-in-law known that the spider was in his robe sleeve, I doubt he would have put it on. He would have taken precautions to avoid it. We may not know what temptation lurks around the corner to draw us in, however, there are times we know the danger and we allow ourselves to "go there" anyway.
When we do that, we find ourselves like my father-in-law did...in need of rescuing. Just like there is only one means of dealing with the infection, there is only one means of dealing with sin and that is repentance through the Christ.
Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases....Psalms 103:1-3
[After two ER trips and a follow up, my father-in-law is sore but resting at home.]
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
I survived because...
I love true crime shows like 48 Hours, City Confidential, American Justice and others. I recently found one called I Survived.
I thought "this is neat!" In the others listed above, someone else always tells the story. In I Survived, the story is being told by a survivor. This means that they lived through the entire ordeal. Some of the stories are heartbreaking and one can only wonder how and why they survived.
In fact, at the end of the segment the survivor telling their story ends it with "I survived because..." and they tell why they think they survived. I listen intently to hear what they have to say. I want to know what they think gave them the will to live, the energy to go on, the power to survive.
These stories are not simple and quick. Some are long and drawn and the victim was forced to endure hours of pain, torture, and agony.
I just caught a glimpse of one yesterday that dealt with an intruder who came upon a couple and their elderly mother. Each was severely injured and the husband took on the intruder. His wife who was being interviewed stated that she was very scared for her husband. He in turn stated that his first concern was for his wife who was his best friend, his soulmate.
At the end, when she answered the question she said this "I survived because my husband was there. I would not have survived without my husband."
Others have said "I survived because of my will to live" "I survived because of the off duty police officer who was awake with a sick dog and heard my screams." "I survived because of my children."
There was a time when I was completely lost in a culture much accepted by this society. I did not have a clue as to the direction of my life nor did I care. You could say that I was in need of a "savior" because I was trapped [self imposed] in the culture. I could not see a way out.
That is until I heard of the love of Christ and His mighty power. I knew then that there were no shackles, no actions, no past that would keep me from being accepted into His kingdom. I quickly learned that I had relied on me too much, with no positive results. If survival was going to happen for me, it was only going to happen through Christ.
We have all suffered pain, rejection, agony, loss, failure.......I survived because Jesus Christ took my place and gave his life for me so that I might continue to live.
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:2
In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. I take no pleasue in one who shrinks back. But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. Hebrews 10: 37-39
I thought "this is neat!" In the others listed above, someone else always tells the story. In I Survived, the story is being told by a survivor. This means that they lived through the entire ordeal. Some of the stories are heartbreaking and one can only wonder how and why they survived.
In fact, at the end of the segment the survivor telling their story ends it with "I survived because..." and they tell why they think they survived. I listen intently to hear what they have to say. I want to know what they think gave them the will to live, the energy to go on, the power to survive.
These stories are not simple and quick. Some are long and drawn and the victim was forced to endure hours of pain, torture, and agony.
I just caught a glimpse of one yesterday that dealt with an intruder who came upon a couple and their elderly mother. Each was severely injured and the husband took on the intruder. His wife who was being interviewed stated that she was very scared for her husband. He in turn stated that his first concern was for his wife who was his best friend, his soulmate.
At the end, when she answered the question she said this "I survived because my husband was there. I would not have survived without my husband."
Others have said "I survived because of my will to live" "I survived because of the off duty police officer who was awake with a sick dog and heard my screams." "I survived because of my children."
There was a time when I was completely lost in a culture much accepted by this society. I did not have a clue as to the direction of my life nor did I care. You could say that I was in need of a "savior" because I was trapped [self imposed] in the culture. I could not see a way out.
That is until I heard of the love of Christ and His mighty power. I knew then that there were no shackles, no actions, no past that would keep me from being accepted into His kingdom. I quickly learned that I had relied on me too much, with no positive results. If survival was going to happen for me, it was only going to happen through Christ.
We have all suffered pain, rejection, agony, loss, failure.......I survived because Jesus Christ took my place and gave his life for me so that I might continue to live.
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:2
In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. I take no pleasue in one who shrinks back. But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. Hebrews 10: 37-39
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Plugged in?
The other morning I woke up and went to prepare the coffee maker for a morning cup of coffee. As I made the coffee, I waited for it to brew, I busied myself to ensure that when I settled in for my coffee I could relax. We were not at home so the coffee maker was smaller that what we are used to and it is unplugged daily.
As I sat to wait, I heard no "brewing." I got up, went to look and discovered that the coffee maker was not plugged in! I thought "I'll never get coffee that way!" I have to plug it in!
I went back to the rocking chair and my writing. I started thinking of all the things that needed to be plugged in order to work. My hair dryer, the television, the lamp at my bedside and so much more that would not do me any good without "power."
So it is with the Word of God. We may ask " why isn't God working in my life? Or "Isn't God listening to me?" Perhaps the question we should be asking is "Am I plugged in?" At home my coffee pot stays plugged in all the time so there is never any doubt as to whether I am going to get coffee in the morning. Here however, I actually had to take action and plug it in.
Sometimes simply "reading" a scripture or parable from the Bible is not enough. We have to dig deep, we have to plug in the power. What I find is that once I plug in, I feel the power.
When we get into the Word of God and really listen for God's voice, we will find that we can tap into the power of His Word. Psalm 46:10 tells us "Be still and know that I am God." I believe that in being still, we need to plug in. Be still in His word, listen for His voice and gain the benefit of the power.
Still waiting on that cup of coffee? Still wondering when God is going to work? Let's start at the beginning....are you plugged in?
The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic. Psalm 29:3-4
As I sat to wait, I heard no "brewing." I got up, went to look and discovered that the coffee maker was not plugged in! I thought "I'll never get coffee that way!" I have to plug it in!
I went back to the rocking chair and my writing. I started thinking of all the things that needed to be plugged in order to work. My hair dryer, the television, the lamp at my bedside and so much more that would not do me any good without "power."
So it is with the Word of God. We may ask " why isn't God working in my life? Or "Isn't God listening to me?" Perhaps the question we should be asking is "Am I plugged in?" At home my coffee pot stays plugged in all the time so there is never any doubt as to whether I am going to get coffee in the morning. Here however, I actually had to take action and plug it in.
Sometimes simply "reading" a scripture or parable from the Bible is not enough. We have to dig deep, we have to plug in the power. What I find is that once I plug in, I feel the power.
When we get into the Word of God and really listen for God's voice, we will find that we can tap into the power of His Word. Psalm 46:10 tells us "Be still and know that I am God." I believe that in being still, we need to plug in. Be still in His word, listen for His voice and gain the benefit of the power.
Still waiting on that cup of coffee? Still wondering when God is going to work? Let's start at the beginning....are you plugged in?
The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic. Psalm 29:3-4
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Distractions
The other day, I sat to write. We were away and I was going to make a post on the blog. I had experienced a great time with friends and I was going to write about it. I had a specific idea and was ready to write.
I sat with my cup of coffee in a comfy rocking chair and just before I began to write, I clicked on the television for some company because my husband was sleeping. I thought "TV won't bother me and I need the noise in the background."
My first mistake was that it was a Saturday morning. My second mistake was A&E. You see, I love home improvement shows. I overlooked it and began to write anyway. What I found was that even as I knew my thoughts and topic, I would often find myself interested in something I heard in the background.
I would stop, look and listen...but not in a good way. When I did that, I lost track of what I was writing and would lose my thoughts. I felt safe in thinking that I was capable of writing with the television on but quickly found myself distracted! I found it interesting that I had selected this very topic Fatal Distractions for my ladies Bible Study class in the fall. Now, here I was being taken in by a talking box!
It is so easy to be distracted by outside sources. What was even more sad was that I just knew that I would not be affected and soon, I was deep in the TV series and out of the blog. How many times do we go into something believing that it will not touch us, bother us, or distract us and yet we get completely taken in.
Before I knew it, I had forgotten about my post. The iPad went into sleep mode and I was completely side tracked. I had to re-group, turn off the television and get back on track. So many times we put ourselves in a position where we know something can distract us then we ask "God why didn't you spare me from that?" God had nothing to do with the choice I made to turn on the TV.
The other thing I found is that the distraction was completely distructive. The answer to "Why?" is because when I write, I rely on the Holy Spirit to lead me and give me words. This morning,the distraction was the competition and God does not compete with distractions or anything else. As such, I lost my focus and words would not come.
I just went blank! I am thankful that I "turned it off!" There will be distractions all around us, both those that arise without our prompting and those we bring upon ourselves. I just have one thing to say about distractions...walk away! They are destructive and will get in your way of a relationship with Christ.
As far as having the attitude of "it won't bother me" think again! The enemy is willing to use anything to get in the way of advancing God's work. So for me, I will pray against the distractions because they have the power to lure you away.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to deat. Don't be deceived my dear brothers. James 1: 13-16
I sat with my cup of coffee in a comfy rocking chair and just before I began to write, I clicked on the television for some company because my husband was sleeping. I thought "TV won't bother me and I need the noise in the background."
My first mistake was that it was a Saturday morning. My second mistake was A&E. You see, I love home improvement shows. I overlooked it and began to write anyway. What I found was that even as I knew my thoughts and topic, I would often find myself interested in something I heard in the background.
I would stop, look and listen...but not in a good way. When I did that, I lost track of what I was writing and would lose my thoughts. I felt safe in thinking that I was capable of writing with the television on but quickly found myself distracted! I found it interesting that I had selected this very topic Fatal Distractions for my ladies Bible Study class in the fall. Now, here I was being taken in by a talking box!
It is so easy to be distracted by outside sources. What was even more sad was that I just knew that I would not be affected and soon, I was deep in the TV series and out of the blog. How many times do we go into something believing that it will not touch us, bother us, or distract us and yet we get completely taken in.
Before I knew it, I had forgotten about my post. The iPad went into sleep mode and I was completely side tracked. I had to re-group, turn off the television and get back on track. So many times we put ourselves in a position where we know something can distract us then we ask "God why didn't you spare me from that?" God had nothing to do with the choice I made to turn on the TV.
The other thing I found is that the distraction was completely distructive. The answer to "Why?" is because when I write, I rely on the Holy Spirit to lead me and give me words. This morning,the distraction was the competition and God does not compete with distractions or anything else. As such, I lost my focus and words would not come.
I just went blank! I am thankful that I "turned it off!" There will be distractions all around us, both those that arise without our prompting and those we bring upon ourselves. I just have one thing to say about distractions...walk away! They are destructive and will get in your way of a relationship with Christ.
As far as having the attitude of "it won't bother me" think again! The enemy is willing to use anything to get in the way of advancing God's work. So for me, I will pray against the distractions because they have the power to lure you away.
When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to deat. Don't be deceived my dear brothers. James 1: 13-16
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Hidden Treasures
I love treasures! I like to shop but I have to tell you the challenge is in finding the deal. I have been known to be the best at combining sale price, with coupon, with discounts to get the best deal.
Yesterday I met up with a couple of friends, that brought a couple of friends with them, and we all went shopping! I had never been to this place before. It was a large place with multiple vendors and I felt like I had been brought to the banquet table. My greatest challenge is to find a hidden treasure.
When we started, I saw a great purse. It was pink with sequined cross guns on the outside. By the nature of my law enforcement background, I liked it but did not purchase it. The next booth offered a sweet little "aged" chair. I loved it! It was 15 dollars but I walked away. To my regret, this morning I wish I had purchased it.
Ok now for some of the finds, I found a 45. No not a weapon, a 45 record. Remember those? The cover is a hard cover which is great! The 45 is a record of Tara's Theme from Gone With the Wind. It also has music from A Street Car Named Desire and From whom The Bell Tolls...sweet! I got it for one dollar.
Next, I got a nice porcelain "shelf cat." it is a musical cat that sits on the shelf with the appearance of hanging off the shelf. It is old and still plays music. I also got it for one dollar. I bought my dog some bling, my son a plaque and my father-in-law some Zane Gray books. I bought five books for one dollar a piece- what a deal.
I found some great "treasures" because I was meticulously looking through things. I found a great pair of boots at half price! They are sweet! You know, we were there all day. We opened the doors of the place and left late in the afternoon. At the end of the day, I left with the greatest treasure and it did not cost me a dime.
To spend time with these four other ladies was priceless! You can not put a price on that! Hours spent together hearing things like "I love that on you!" or "that was made for you." The greatest treasure, my greatest find was time spent with them.
You know there is another find that doesn't cost a dime. That is treasures we find in the Word of God. We become so familiar with scriptures and those are the ones we gravitate to in time of need or sorrow or grief. God has offered us such great treasures but we have to take the time to spend in His Word looking for them.
Often, we know the obvious but there is so much to treasure in the promises. One of my favorites is Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still." I found that verse when I was diligently spending time with God. My hidden treasure.
Another is when Nehemiah was rebuilding the wall and facing opposition, his response was "don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome..." How will we react when we come upon opposition? God's word gives clear examples of how others reacted but more than that, it give us hope of God's promises... What a treasure...but it can only be found if you spend time in the Word.
It took time to find my treasures and so it is with God's Word! I have to thank my friend Beverly Tanner for inviting me to spend the day with her. More importantly, I thank God for Godly friends both old and new. I found Belinda, Beverly, Irene and Brenda to be true treasures.
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5
Yesterday I met up with a couple of friends, that brought a couple of friends with them, and we all went shopping! I had never been to this place before. It was a large place with multiple vendors and I felt like I had been brought to the banquet table. My greatest challenge is to find a hidden treasure.
When we started, I saw a great purse. It was pink with sequined cross guns on the outside. By the nature of my law enforcement background, I liked it but did not purchase it. The next booth offered a sweet little "aged" chair. I loved it! It was 15 dollars but I walked away. To my regret, this morning I wish I had purchased it.
Ok now for some of the finds, I found a 45. No not a weapon, a 45 record. Remember those? The cover is a hard cover which is great! The 45 is a record of Tara's Theme from Gone With the Wind. It also has music from A Street Car Named Desire and From whom The Bell Tolls...sweet! I got it for one dollar.
Next, I got a nice porcelain "shelf cat." it is a musical cat that sits on the shelf with the appearance of hanging off the shelf. It is old and still plays music. I also got it for one dollar. I bought my dog some bling, my son a plaque and my father-in-law some Zane Gray books. I bought five books for one dollar a piece- what a deal.
I found some great "treasures" because I was meticulously looking through things. I found a great pair of boots at half price! They are sweet! You know, we were there all day. We opened the doors of the place and left late in the afternoon. At the end of the day, I left with the greatest treasure and it did not cost me a dime.
To spend time with these four other ladies was priceless! You can not put a price on that! Hours spent together hearing things like "I love that on you!" or "that was made for you." The greatest treasure, my greatest find was time spent with them.
You know there is another find that doesn't cost a dime. That is treasures we find in the Word of God. We become so familiar with scriptures and those are the ones we gravitate to in time of need or sorrow or grief. God has offered us such great treasures but we have to take the time to spend in His Word looking for them.
Often, we know the obvious but there is so much to treasure in the promises. One of my favorites is Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still." I found that verse when I was diligently spending time with God. My hidden treasure.
Another is when Nehemiah was rebuilding the wall and facing opposition, his response was "don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome..." How will we react when we come upon opposition? God's word gives clear examples of how others reacted but more than that, it give us hope of God's promises... What a treasure...but it can only be found if you spend time in the Word.
It took time to find my treasures and so it is with God's Word! I have to thank my friend Beverly Tanner for inviting me to spend the day with her. More importantly, I thank God for Godly friends both old and new. I found Belinda, Beverly, Irene and Brenda to be true treasures.
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5
Thursday, May 17, 2012
I will remember
Last year we went to Galveston for a visit. I was taking a walk with my son when I saw something that really tugged at my heart. I saw the most awesome reminder of a storm that almost completely took this city out. I saw two boats positioned on the sand in Galveston beach put there by Hurricane Ike. It took me back to a time when fear and apprehension loomed for a bit. I only stayed there a short while because I quickly remembered what God had done.
I was still working and there was a threat of a hurricane looming in the Gulf. We would later come to know it as Hurricane Ike. There was a concern of hurricanes since we had seen the damage and destruction Hurricane Katrina had brought to New Orleans. We would have two concerns that season with Ike and Rita both approaching Texas.
I remember being called to full active uniform duty. I remember working twenty days straight with no time off. I remember my house being struck by a tree limb and creating a hole in our roof that completely destroyed my son's room and the front foyer and us having no possibility of addressing the issue for days. I remember having to sleep in a cramped office downtown because we had no electricity at home. I remember calling friends to ask them what the damage was to our home and yard.
I also remember that my father-in-law, in his nineties suffered no harm to his home or self. I remember God sending friends to take care of us and our home when we could not take care of ourselves. I remember God bringing people to us to clean out my son's room as we were taking care of the city.
With all that having taken place, I knew I would always remember what God had done in my life through a storm called Hurricane Ike.
A year later I sufferred a much greater storm in my life. God was just as faithful. On days I could not even lift my head to face another day, I remembered that he was faithful and would not leave my side. I was right. Every now and then I have reminders, much like the two boats in the sand, of God's faithfulness and I remember what God has done.
I walked into church not long after that only to hear our church choir sing a song I was not familiar with.
I will remember, I will remember, I will remember what God has done;
I will stop and give him praise for great is his faithfulness.
Sometimes we have storms in life that we don't welcome and we certainly don't understand. I use those storms not to dwell on the damage done but on what God brought us through. My initial reaction upon seeing those boats was to say "Look at what Hurricane Ike did" It quickly changed to "Look at God's faithfulness in bringing us through this storm."
Are you in a storm? Remember that God is at work and though you may not see it, you are in the palm of His hands.
I will remember what God has done!
Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced... He is the Lord our God; his judgments are in all the earth. He remembers his covenant forever. 1 Chronicles 16: 11-12; 14-15
I was still working and there was a threat of a hurricane looming in the Gulf. We would later come to know it as Hurricane Ike. There was a concern of hurricanes since we had seen the damage and destruction Hurricane Katrina had brought to New Orleans. We would have two concerns that season with Ike and Rita both approaching Texas.
I remember being called to full active uniform duty. I remember working twenty days straight with no time off. I remember my house being struck by a tree limb and creating a hole in our roof that completely destroyed my son's room and the front foyer and us having no possibility of addressing the issue for days. I remember having to sleep in a cramped office downtown because we had no electricity at home. I remember calling friends to ask them what the damage was to our home and yard.
I also remember that my father-in-law, in his nineties suffered no harm to his home or self. I remember God sending friends to take care of us and our home when we could not take care of ourselves. I remember God bringing people to us to clean out my son's room as we were taking care of the city.
With all that having taken place, I knew I would always remember what God had done in my life through a storm called Hurricane Ike.
A year later I sufferred a much greater storm in my life. God was just as faithful. On days I could not even lift my head to face another day, I remembered that he was faithful and would not leave my side. I was right. Every now and then I have reminders, much like the two boats in the sand, of God's faithfulness and I remember what God has done.
I walked into church not long after that only to hear our church choir sing a song I was not familiar with.
I will remember, I will remember, I will remember what God has done;
I will stop and give him praise for great is his faithfulness.
Sometimes we have storms in life that we don't welcome and we certainly don't understand. I use those storms not to dwell on the damage done but on what God brought us through. My initial reaction upon seeing those boats was to say "Look at what Hurricane Ike did" It quickly changed to "Look at God's faithfulness in bringing us through this storm."
Are you in a storm? Remember that God is at work and though you may not see it, you are in the palm of His hands.
I will remember what God has done!
Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced... He is the Lord our God; his judgments are in all the earth. He remembers his covenant forever. 1 Chronicles 16: 11-12; 14-15
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Are you in?
Monday we attended my son's National Honor Society Banquet. He has several friends also in NHS and was excited about the possibility of getting in this year. When we got the letter, I heard him call his dad on the phone to say "I'm in." Once he made it, he decided to run for an officer's position.
He decided he would run for Vice President-Service. A young lady also in NHS ran against him. We did not intervene, in fact we heard very little about the race. He explained that he had to meet with the current officers, he had to address other students and then he had to promote himself. Then it would be a week before we would find out if "he was in."
I would ask "how did the young lady do?" He would respond by saying he didn't really know. I can tell you now that it was not a "slam dunk" for him and that was evident in his demeanor. I really wanted him to win because I have seen such a change in him and he has put forth much more effort.
As we were parking at the banquet, he pointed out a young lady wearing a pretty little yellow dress. "That's who ran against me mom" is what he said. At that moment, my heart dropped. I felt so bad at the idea that one of these two "children" was going to go home disappointed. Only one could win.
I feared for the little girl's feelings but I feared more that when they said "The Vice President of Service is..." they would say her name and not my son's.
We can not all always win, we will have losses and we will have disappointments. There is however a chance for all of us to win and that is when it comes to eternal life. We all have the opportunity to accept this gift.
You don't have to give a speech, you don't have to face a council, you don't even have to suffer the experience of a "vote count." You are automatically in if you:
Accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal savior
Believe that he came, died on the cross and rose again
Confess your sins.
To those who accept, eternal life is immediate and that makes you a winner. Are you in?
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
He decided he would run for Vice President-Service. A young lady also in NHS ran against him. We did not intervene, in fact we heard very little about the race. He explained that he had to meet with the current officers, he had to address other students and then he had to promote himself. Then it would be a week before we would find out if "he was in."
I would ask "how did the young lady do?" He would respond by saying he didn't really know. I can tell you now that it was not a "slam dunk" for him and that was evident in his demeanor. I really wanted him to win because I have seen such a change in him and he has put forth much more effort.
As we were parking at the banquet, he pointed out a young lady wearing a pretty little yellow dress. "That's who ran against me mom" is what he said. At that moment, my heart dropped. I felt so bad at the idea that one of these two "children" was going to go home disappointed. Only one could win.
I feared for the little girl's feelings but I feared more that when they said "The Vice President of Service is..." they would say her name and not my son's.
We can not all always win, we will have losses and we will have disappointments. There is however a chance for all of us to win and that is when it comes to eternal life. We all have the opportunity to accept this gift.
You don't have to give a speech, you don't have to face a council, you don't even have to suffer the experience of a "vote count." You are automatically in if you:
Accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal savior
Believe that he came, died on the cross and rose again
Confess your sins.
To those who accept, eternal life is immediate and that makes you a winner. Are you in?
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Use the PowerSong
This morning I got up a little earlier than usual because I have a morning appointment. I went to go run which has become a real challenge lately. My sisters have challenged me to an event and I must be ready.
As I left my drive, I ran into a neighbor that I chatted with and then left her behind. The other day I had some time to walk with her and chat but I did not today so I moved on. I felt rain drops and I wanted to get back home before it rained.
I ran my usual trail except it was quiet...then I realized the school that is normally buzzing was not even in session yet. No kids running around, playing, or any other noise for that matter-just my music on my ipod. I kept running and it was a struggle. It was hot and the raindrops continued for a bit.
I was ever diligent in keeping an eye on my surroundings and I was fine until it came time to come back. Things slowed down and I was beginning to wonder if I was going to finish this journey walking instead of running. I have an app that tells me distance and time and I knew I had to be getting close to my destination. My previous app on my iphone was not quite as detailed as this new one.
Then I heard the voice "Congratulations, you are close to your destination" Close? Close? then she followed up by saying "Hit the Powersong button to get you to the finish." I'm thinking YAY I got this! I hit that powersong button and I wait thinking "Rocky" climbing up the stairs in sweet success; thinking "Eye of the Tiger" is going to bring me home!
I'm pumped thinking I can run two more miles with this "powersong"...then I hear the music. It's not exactly "Eye of the Tiger." It's not even what I would consider a PowerSong. It's Mandesa and before I can say "really?" one time, I realize...it is a PowerSong.
The song is Mandesa's He is With You! It start's with:
There's a time to live and a time to die....[I'm thinking "I'm dying now trying to finish this run." ]
There's a time to laugh and a time to cry.....There's a time for war and a time for peace....there's a hand to hold in the worst of these.
I'm asking "Why this song."
He is with you when your faith is dead and you can't even get out of bed or your husband doesn't kiss you anymore...He is with you when your baby's gone and your house is still and your heart is stone crying "God, what'd you do that for"....He is with you.
I am reminded of a time when this song brought me through, a time when I asked God "What'd you do this for?"
Today however, as I run, I think of my friends and prayer requests. Those who thought they were going to be empty nesters and now have a houseful, those who merely exist in marriage, those singles who are still waiting, those whose proposal fell through in a conference room after all their hard work....He is with you!
There's a time for yes and a time for no, there's a time to be angry and a time to let it go there's a time to run and a time to face it there is love to see you through all of this...
He is with you in the conference room when the world is coming down on you and your wife and kids don't know you anymore... and he is with you in the ICU when the doctors don't know what to do and it scares you to the core...He is with You! we may weep for a time...but joy will come in the morning-the morning light
He is with you when your kids are grown and there's too much space and you feel alone and you're worried if you got it right or wrong...and He is with your when you've given up on ever finding your true love...He is With You
When nothing else is left and you take your final breath, He is With You!
He is with me to the final mile. What a way to finish a run.....with a great PowerSong!
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven..Ecclesiastes 3:1
Mandesa-Freedom CD, He Is With You
As I left my drive, I ran into a neighbor that I chatted with and then left her behind. The other day I had some time to walk with her and chat but I did not today so I moved on. I felt rain drops and I wanted to get back home before it rained.
I ran my usual trail except it was quiet...then I realized the school that is normally buzzing was not even in session yet. No kids running around, playing, or any other noise for that matter-just my music on my ipod. I kept running and it was a struggle. It was hot and the raindrops continued for a bit.
I was ever diligent in keeping an eye on my surroundings and I was fine until it came time to come back. Things slowed down and I was beginning to wonder if I was going to finish this journey walking instead of running. I have an app that tells me distance and time and I knew I had to be getting close to my destination. My previous app on my iphone was not quite as detailed as this new one.
Then I heard the voice "Congratulations, you are close to your destination" Close? Close? then she followed up by saying "Hit the Powersong button to get you to the finish." I'm thinking YAY I got this! I hit that powersong button and I wait thinking "Rocky" climbing up the stairs in sweet success; thinking "Eye of the Tiger" is going to bring me home!
I'm pumped thinking I can run two more miles with this "powersong"...then I hear the music. It's not exactly "Eye of the Tiger." It's not even what I would consider a PowerSong. It's Mandesa and before I can say "really?" one time, I realize...it is a PowerSong.
The song is Mandesa's He is With You! It start's with:
There's a time to live and a time to die....[I'm thinking "I'm dying now trying to finish this run." ]
There's a time to laugh and a time to cry.....There's a time for war and a time for peace....there's a hand to hold in the worst of these.
I'm asking "Why this song."
He is with you when your faith is dead and you can't even get out of bed or your husband doesn't kiss you anymore...He is with you when your baby's gone and your house is still and your heart is stone crying "God, what'd you do that for"....He is with you.
I am reminded of a time when this song brought me through, a time when I asked God "What'd you do this for?"
Today however, as I run, I think of my friends and prayer requests. Those who thought they were going to be empty nesters and now have a houseful, those who merely exist in marriage, those singles who are still waiting, those whose proposal fell through in a conference room after all their hard work....He is with you!
There's a time for yes and a time for no, there's a time to be angry and a time to let it go there's a time to run and a time to face it there is love to see you through all of this...
He is with you in the conference room when the world is coming down on you and your wife and kids don't know you anymore... and he is with you in the ICU when the doctors don't know what to do and it scares you to the core...He is with You! we may weep for a time...but joy will come in the morning-the morning light
He is with you when your kids are grown and there's too much space and you feel alone and you're worried if you got it right or wrong...and He is with your when you've given up on ever finding your true love...He is With You
When nothing else is left and you take your final breath, He is With You!
He is with me to the final mile. What a way to finish a run.....with a great PowerSong!
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven..Ecclesiastes 3:1
Mandesa-Freedom CD, He Is With You
Monday, May 14, 2012
Stand forever
Yesterday I had to say good bye to my Bible Study Class, Seekers. It was not a decision we took lightly but so much has taken place since I committed to teaching last year. I love sharing the word of God and at one point was teaching two other weekly Bible Study Classes.
I found that preparing three lessons was quite a challenge and as a result, relied more and more on our primary teacher Jim Savage. I have to say this has been quite the experience. I have for most of my tenure at this church, taught single adults. I felt like I could relate with the issues of being an adult single and I loved it.
I also loved teaching Seekers. However, recently my husband and I have had a very unpredictible schedule. I have to commend this class for it's structure and leadership. The leaders in that class, everyone of them-social, shepherd groups, service, and so many others are perfect fits for their positions and also share a love for what they do.
I just want to share that I was overwhelmed with love yesterday. There is no greater compliment to a teacher than to hear "I walked away with something everytime you taught." Let me add, it is a compliment to the Holy Spirit who leads me.
Thank you so much for your support, your kindness and your love. We ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers as God is opening doors that were completely barred for us. God has a plan for each of us and when He is ready, he will reveal it.
Your words, meant the world to me but more than that, I am grateful to be able to worship in a church where we stand on the Word of God!
Teachers will come and go but the Word of God will stand forever! Again, thank you Seekers!
"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of our God stands forever."
Isaiah 40:8
Sunday, May 13, 2012
It's in the cards.
For years I dreaded this day. I dreaded Mother's day more than anything else and the reason for it was in purchasing a card. Ugh. I hated going to buy a card.
Of course I buy birthday cards, anniversary, graduation, father's day, new baby and all sorts of cards. I just didn't like buying Mother's Day cards. For the longest time I had a very volitile relationship with my mother. Resentment, bitterness, anger and holding on to memories that were not pleasant would limit me to the card I purchased.
You see, the Mother's Day cards I looked for were usually generic such as "Have a nice day" or "A day to celebrate Mothers-that's you." They were never heartfelt cards. I would go to the store, stand for what seemed like hours looking through cards I just couldn't buy. They did not reflect what I wanted to say....which was nothing!
We weren't best friends, I didn't [nor did I care to] share secrets, I didn't want to remember anything about my childhood. Alot of the cards said "I love you" and any card that said that was automatically disqualified for purchase. I had it tough!
Last year, God impressed upon me to teach a Ladies Bible Study Class called Total Forgiveness. It is a book written by R.T. Kendall and a dear friend gave it to me when I was struggling with forgiving a friend. As I proceeded through the study, I told the ladies of my story with Mom and challenged them to act in a forgiving way in their situation.
They quickly held me accountable for forgiving my mom....what? Really? I found that the lesson in forgiveness was not for the ladies in the class, it was for me. Through the study and with their accountability, I was able to go to my mom, discuss some things with her and come to complete forgiveness and restoration.
I can tell you that the years of resentment and bitterness washed away like I never knew possible. It did not happen overnight [this was a six week class], but I stood open to the idea that this might work if I sat with her and explained how I felt. God did an amazing work. So amazing that when I tried to "go back" to her criticism of the past, I couldn't think of any!
This mother's day was the first time in my adult life that I actually looked for a card with enthusiasm. I began looking when they first came out until I found just the right one to tell my mother how much I appreciate all she has done and how much I love her.
In looking at some of the cards I received today, my heart is filled with joy. From my sisters, nieces and yes even my son the comedian. His card came with a disclaimer from Hallmark "Please don't share this card with my friends." Yes...it was that funny and would embarass him if his friends saw it. That is love!
I am grateful to God for restoring a mother/daughter relationship that was so damaged I thought there was no reconciliation possible. For other daughters in this situation I say "You may have given up on your mom but don't give up on God."
It is my priviledge to have been chosen by God to carry the honor of being a mom. Despite the past, I had the best mother there was. One who would stand by her children and protect them with everything she had. I am grateful to God that he allowed me this second chance to rebuild a relationship so damaged. I look forward to finding many more cards in the coming years.
May your father and mother be glad; and may she who gave you birth rejoice. Proverbs 23:25
Of course I buy birthday cards, anniversary, graduation, father's day, new baby and all sorts of cards. I just didn't like buying Mother's Day cards. For the longest time I had a very volitile relationship with my mother. Resentment, bitterness, anger and holding on to memories that were not pleasant would limit me to the card I purchased.
You see, the Mother's Day cards I looked for were usually generic such as "Have a nice day" or "A day to celebrate Mothers-that's you." They were never heartfelt cards. I would go to the store, stand for what seemed like hours looking through cards I just couldn't buy. They did not reflect what I wanted to say....which was nothing!
We weren't best friends, I didn't [nor did I care to] share secrets, I didn't want to remember anything about my childhood. Alot of the cards said "I love you" and any card that said that was automatically disqualified for purchase. I had it tough!
Last year, God impressed upon me to teach a Ladies Bible Study Class called Total Forgiveness. It is a book written by R.T. Kendall and a dear friend gave it to me when I was struggling with forgiving a friend. As I proceeded through the study, I told the ladies of my story with Mom and challenged them to act in a forgiving way in their situation.
They quickly held me accountable for forgiving my mom....what? Really? I found that the lesson in forgiveness was not for the ladies in the class, it was for me. Through the study and with their accountability, I was able to go to my mom, discuss some things with her and come to complete forgiveness and restoration.
I can tell you that the years of resentment and bitterness washed away like I never knew possible. It did not happen overnight [this was a six week class], but I stood open to the idea that this might work if I sat with her and explained how I felt. God did an amazing work. So amazing that when I tried to "go back" to her criticism of the past, I couldn't think of any!
This mother's day was the first time in my adult life that I actually looked for a card with enthusiasm. I began looking when they first came out until I found just the right one to tell my mother how much I appreciate all she has done and how much I love her.
In looking at some of the cards I received today, my heart is filled with joy. From my sisters, nieces and yes even my son the comedian. His card came with a disclaimer from Hallmark "Please don't share this card with my friends." Yes...it was that funny and would embarass him if his friends saw it. That is love!
I am grateful to God for restoring a mother/daughter relationship that was so damaged I thought there was no reconciliation possible. For other daughters in this situation I say "You may have given up on your mom but don't give up on God."
It is my priviledge to have been chosen by God to carry the honor of being a mom. Despite the past, I had the best mother there was. One who would stand by her children and protect them with everything she had. I am grateful to God that he allowed me this second chance to rebuild a relationship so damaged. I look forward to finding many more cards in the coming years.
May your father and mother be glad; and may she who gave you birth rejoice. Proverbs 23:25
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Hail...No!
Can't slow down....gotta keep giong. Got nothing left but I can't slow down.
Ever feel that way? I guess we all have at one time or another. Yet despite all we have going on, God wants us to stop and rest. Even if He has to make it happen.
We had alot of rain last night. My brother had a threat of hail in his part of town. That made me think of a situation that took place a couple of years ago. Our son Matthew, my husband, and I were all going to dinner one evening. The rain was falling hard and suddenly turned to hail.
The hail grew larger as it beat on our vehicle. I finally told my husband that we had to pull over. The hail was coming down hard and I did not want to damage our car. As we looked for cover, I said "Pull over at the church." As we approached the cover of the church, there were already cars there.....no room for us.
I pointed to another church just down the street. As we pulled over and waited, we could hear the large hail on the tin cover. Within a few minutes, the hail stopped, the rain diminished and as we pulled out, we saw two beautiul rainbows. It reminded me of the covenant God made with Noah sealing it with a rainbow. Had we made the decision to continue to the restaurant, we would have fought the hail and missed the rainbow.
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the events of life. So many things going on-so many deadlines, events, or family obligations. It may be kindergarden graduations or grandchildren but the point is we are swampped.
Sometimes, God requires us to "pull-over" and wait on Him. If we don't do it on our own, He can make it happen. He may bring the clouds, rain and even hail. We may think "I don't have the time to slow down" but trust me, it is within his power to do it. Even if he has to use hail and to that I say "Hail......NO!"
And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of all kind.
Genesis 9:12-15
Ever feel that way? I guess we all have at one time or another. Yet despite all we have going on, God wants us to stop and rest. Even if He has to make it happen.
We had alot of rain last night. My brother had a threat of hail in his part of town. That made me think of a situation that took place a couple of years ago. Our son Matthew, my husband, and I were all going to dinner one evening. The rain was falling hard and suddenly turned to hail.
The hail grew larger as it beat on our vehicle. I finally told my husband that we had to pull over. The hail was coming down hard and I did not want to damage our car. As we looked for cover, I said "Pull over at the church." As we approached the cover of the church, there were already cars there.....no room for us.
I pointed to another church just down the street. As we pulled over and waited, we could hear the large hail on the tin cover. Within a few minutes, the hail stopped, the rain diminished and as we pulled out, we saw two beautiul rainbows. It reminded me of the covenant God made with Noah sealing it with a rainbow. Had we made the decision to continue to the restaurant, we would have fought the hail and missed the rainbow.
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the events of life. So many things going on-so many deadlines, events, or family obligations. It may be kindergarden graduations or grandchildren but the point is we are swampped.
Sometimes, God requires us to "pull-over" and wait on Him. If we don't do it on our own, He can make it happen. He may bring the clouds, rain and even hail. We may think "I don't have the time to slow down" but trust me, it is within his power to do it. Even if he has to use hail and to that I say "Hail......NO!"
And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of all kind.
Genesis 9:12-15
Friday, May 11, 2012
Deliberate or Apologetic?
Ever stop and think about how we are often tested in areas that are true to our hearts and rarely tested on things that don't affect us that much?
When Job was tested, he was hit where it hurt, beginning with his children. Everything else could be replaced but his children could not.
We are living in a world of fast paced change and technology. Everyone wants to keep up and if you have a flip phone, you are behind times. We just have to have the most current, the fastest, and the highest capacity. Yet when it comes to our faith, what are we doing to ensure we are not "left behind?"
I recall my mom often asking us to "turn down the music" and asking "you call that music" remarks. To her, big band music was tops. Today, you have to exercise your right to reject alot of what some call "music." Much of our music, television shows, movies and books have changed with the times and many do not accomodate my beliefs.
Parents deal with enough emphasizing rejection of peer pressure but what about when you're an adult? Do you jump on that band wagon simply because a popular author supports it? Perhaps a celebrity or a well known doctor?
Just because someone says it or agrees with it or supports does not make it right. The gauge for whether it is right is the Word of God.
Our sitcoms, music, videos, and social media promote agendas that are so contrary to God's Word. Our society, the kids, the next generation need to be solid and grounded in what God's Word says about issues. This is not about comfort and tolerance, this is about staying true to His Word.
David Jeremiah once said "We serve deliberately not apologetically." So take a few minutes to think about that statement. Which side of serving are you on? I do not apologize for my love of Christ. I do not apologize for my belief in his Holy Word and I do not apologize for serving the one who sacrificed his life for me.
We live in a country where we have the freedom to choose. We don't have to support that which we do not stand for. The choice is yours. But you do have to make that choice...deliberate or apologetic?
No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love th other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. Matthew 6:24
When Job was tested, he was hit where it hurt, beginning with his children. Everything else could be replaced but his children could not.
We are living in a world of fast paced change and technology. Everyone wants to keep up and if you have a flip phone, you are behind times. We just have to have the most current, the fastest, and the highest capacity. Yet when it comes to our faith, what are we doing to ensure we are not "left behind?"
I recall my mom often asking us to "turn down the music" and asking "you call that music" remarks. To her, big band music was tops. Today, you have to exercise your right to reject alot of what some call "music." Much of our music, television shows, movies and books have changed with the times and many do not accomodate my beliefs.
Parents deal with enough emphasizing rejection of peer pressure but what about when you're an adult? Do you jump on that band wagon simply because a popular author supports it? Perhaps a celebrity or a well known doctor?
Just because someone says it or agrees with it or supports does not make it right. The gauge for whether it is right is the Word of God.
Our sitcoms, music, videos, and social media promote agendas that are so contrary to God's Word. Our society, the kids, the next generation need to be solid and grounded in what God's Word says about issues. This is not about comfort and tolerance, this is about staying true to His Word.
David Jeremiah once said "We serve deliberately not apologetically." So take a few minutes to think about that statement. Which side of serving are you on? I do not apologize for my love of Christ. I do not apologize for my belief in his Holy Word and I do not apologize for serving the one who sacrificed his life for me.
We live in a country where we have the freedom to choose. We don't have to support that which we do not stand for. The choice is yours. But you do have to make that choice...deliberate or apologetic?
No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love th other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. Matthew 6:24
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Even Exchange?
This morning, I think I can deliver my message with the following scripture. As we approach a new season in electing a leader, I would challenge everyone to consider the issues seriously.
Paul told the Corthians:
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8
In Rome he said:
For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and they exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
Therefore, God gave them over in their sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity, for the degrading of their bodies with one another.
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the creator-who is forever praised. Amen. Romans 1:21-25
I wouldn't call that an even exchange....if that's the case, you lose.
Paul told the Corthians:
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8
In Rome he said:
For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.
Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and they exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.
Therefore, God gave them over in their sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity, for the degrading of their bodies with one another.
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the creator-who is forever praised. Amen. Romans 1:21-25
I wouldn't call that an even exchange....if that's the case, you lose.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Did you call?
Yesterday I was cleaning up getting ready to leave the house on an errand. As I was getting dressed, I was listening to music. A Christian radio station was playing throughout the house on our intercom system.
Being in my dressing area, I had the music turned up because it is difficult to hear in that room. As I was applying my make-up, I thought I heard something. I thought I heard the faint sound of a duck.
You see, my son's ringtone is a duck and if I hear it throughout the day it means he needs something. He either needs lunch money, running shoes, an extra t-shirt...something! You know what I found? I found that I didn't want to miss that call.
I dropped what I was doing and ran to where my phone was to pick it up. Through the noise, the low volume on the phone and the distraction of getting dressed, I thought I heard his ring tone.
As it turns out, it was not him. It was not my phone at all but it did stop me in my tracks as this thought ran through my head. Why? Why did I think I heard his ringtone?
My only response is that I want to be there when he calls. I have tuned and conditioned my ears to listening for that specific ringtone throughout the day. I have been surrounded with Seniors and them leaving for college that I have gravitated towards my son even more.
I am listening! I am listening for the ringtone. I want to the be the one that answers his call. I want to be the one that hears him when he calls.
I soon thought of Isaiah 6. Who is willing to do it? Who can I send? I have to wonder "Am I that in tune with God that I will hear his voice when he calls?" Do I want to be the one that goes when He calls? Will I hear His voice or will I be so distracted by outside noise that I miss it? Are my ears and heart "conditioned" to hearing if he calls me? I can only be conditioned if I have such a close relationship with him that I recognize His voice when he calls.
I was listening for my son's ringtone because I wanted to be there for him. I had alot of exposure this weekend to seniors who will be leaving for college. I know my time is short and I want to be there when he needs me. Like an eager puppy panting I am asking "you need me, you need me, what do ya need, what do ya need?" I pray that I have that same commitment and dedication when God calls.
I want to ask "Father what can I do, what do you need me to do." I don't want to miss it and have to ask "Did you call."
Then I heard the vioce of the lord syaing, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I, Send me." Isaiah 6:8
Being in my dressing area, I had the music turned up because it is difficult to hear in that room. As I was applying my make-up, I thought I heard something. I thought I heard the faint sound of a duck.
You see, my son's ringtone is a duck and if I hear it throughout the day it means he needs something. He either needs lunch money, running shoes, an extra t-shirt...something! You know what I found? I found that I didn't want to miss that call.
I dropped what I was doing and ran to where my phone was to pick it up. Through the noise, the low volume on the phone and the distraction of getting dressed, I thought I heard his ring tone.
As it turns out, it was not him. It was not my phone at all but it did stop me in my tracks as this thought ran through my head. Why? Why did I think I heard his ringtone?
My only response is that I want to be there when he calls. I have tuned and conditioned my ears to listening for that specific ringtone throughout the day. I have been surrounded with Seniors and them leaving for college that I have gravitated towards my son even more.
I am listening! I am listening for the ringtone. I want to the be the one that answers his call. I want to be the one that hears him when he calls.
I soon thought of Isaiah 6. Who is willing to do it? Who can I send? I have to wonder "Am I that in tune with God that I will hear his voice when he calls?" Do I want to be the one that goes when He calls? Will I hear His voice or will I be so distracted by outside noise that I miss it? Are my ears and heart "conditioned" to hearing if he calls me? I can only be conditioned if I have such a close relationship with him that I recognize His voice when he calls.
I was listening for my son's ringtone because I wanted to be there for him. I had alot of exposure this weekend to seniors who will be leaving for college. I know my time is short and I want to be there when he needs me. Like an eager puppy panting I am asking "you need me, you need me, what do ya need, what do ya need?" I pray that I have that same commitment and dedication when God calls.
I want to ask "Father what can I do, what do you need me to do." I don't want to miss it and have to ask "Did you call."
Then I heard the vioce of the lord syaing, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I, Send me." Isaiah 6:8
Monday, May 7, 2012
Clean it out
Wow. I had to take a little break. I have been working on my closet since 7:30. Two hours and I am just now seeing progress.
I believe God speaks to us through many means. This morning, for me, it was my closet. You can not believe the things we hold on to. Why?
I mean really, am I ever going to wear those stone washed jeans from the eighties? Are those leg warmers going to do me any good in Houston? Then there are the current purchases. I packed away eight pair of boots! The irony of it all is that my closet is no bigger than my half bath downstairs.
I got to thinking, what do we hold on to in life that overwhelms us? Every inch of my shelves are packed with...you got it-shoes! How many shoes can one wear in a lifetime? Usually, I find myself wearing the same shoes daily and they are either running shoes or my sandals. Yet I continue to buy shoes I like and put them on my shelf. I refuse to get rid of them because I might need that color or that style.
We pack our lives with stuff too. Perhaps someone told us we were unworthy years ago and we feed the lie. Maybe someone deserted us or betrayed us. We pack our closets with things that confirm how we feel and then we find it difficult to move on. As a result, we hold on to that thing and continue to pack it away refusing to let it go. Perhaps its a vice or a sinful desire. We hide it in the back of our closet hoping no one discovers we have it.
It's time to clean our your closet and put away the things that do not glorify God. In cleaning my closet out, I took a good look at the contents. Then I pulled things from my hangers and if they were going out, I put them on the floor. Next...the trash or a donation box. That's how we begin.
Examine the things in your life that do not belong. The things that may be weighing you down. Next, determine that they don't belong and just get rid of it. How you might ask. If it is something that heavy that you don't know where to begin keep this in mind. There is nothing to big that God can't handle. It begins with us making the decision to take a good look at ourselves then taking that first step to do it.
I have known that my closet was in need of cleaning. It is too easy to miss the hamper or stack shoes on the floor or not pull cleaning from the plastic. I knew if I just made the commitment, I could do it. The problem was I had no incentive. Last night when my husband said the exterminator would be coming today....I got that incentive.
So whatever it takes, make up your mind that you need to clean that closet. My spiritual incentive is that I want to greet Christ with a "clean closet" with nothing hindering my walk with Him.
Speaking of cleaning it out, I must return to my closet. As I remove items, I pray that God will also remove things in my life that are not glorifying to him. I am ready to "clean it out!"
Put to death therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature, sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossians 3:5-10
I believe God speaks to us through many means. This morning, for me, it was my closet. You can not believe the things we hold on to. Why?
I mean really, am I ever going to wear those stone washed jeans from the eighties? Are those leg warmers going to do me any good in Houston? Then there are the current purchases. I packed away eight pair of boots! The irony of it all is that my closet is no bigger than my half bath downstairs.
I got to thinking, what do we hold on to in life that overwhelms us? Every inch of my shelves are packed with...you got it-shoes! How many shoes can one wear in a lifetime? Usually, I find myself wearing the same shoes daily and they are either running shoes or my sandals. Yet I continue to buy shoes I like and put them on my shelf. I refuse to get rid of them because I might need that color or that style.
We pack our lives with stuff too. Perhaps someone told us we were unworthy years ago and we feed the lie. Maybe someone deserted us or betrayed us. We pack our closets with things that confirm how we feel and then we find it difficult to move on. As a result, we hold on to that thing and continue to pack it away refusing to let it go. Perhaps its a vice or a sinful desire. We hide it in the back of our closet hoping no one discovers we have it.
It's time to clean our your closet and put away the things that do not glorify God. In cleaning my closet out, I took a good look at the contents. Then I pulled things from my hangers and if they were going out, I put them on the floor. Next...the trash or a donation box. That's how we begin.
Examine the things in your life that do not belong. The things that may be weighing you down. Next, determine that they don't belong and just get rid of it. How you might ask. If it is something that heavy that you don't know where to begin keep this in mind. There is nothing to big that God can't handle. It begins with us making the decision to take a good look at ourselves then taking that first step to do it.
I have known that my closet was in need of cleaning. It is too easy to miss the hamper or stack shoes on the floor or not pull cleaning from the plastic. I knew if I just made the commitment, I could do it. The problem was I had no incentive. Last night when my husband said the exterminator would be coming today....I got that incentive.
So whatever it takes, make up your mind that you need to clean that closet. My spiritual incentive is that I want to greet Christ with a "clean closet" with nothing hindering my walk with Him.
Speaking of cleaning it out, I must return to my closet. As I remove items, I pray that God will also remove things in my life that are not glorifying to him. I am ready to "clean it out!"
Put to death therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature, sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossians 3:5-10
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Busted!
My husband and I were driving somewhere yesterday when I saw this sign on a church marquee:
"If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be evidence to convict you?"
I had to think about that for a bit. Wow, what a question. This would be one case you would not want to be dismissed for lack of evidence.
Today, we saw evidence of Jesus in the lives of teenagers as some of our Seniors 2012 spoke in our church. They spoke of dark times, doubt, faith to move, being in a pit, walls that needed to come down, and the results when Jesus brought then through.
These teens were bold in their stand for Christ. Many will be leaving in the fall for colleges throughout the country. I pray that their testimony and love of Christ will travel with them.
I often think if my life is evidence of my love for Christ. I sometimes get angry at the cashier taking too long, or at the cook that undercooked my steak, or at the teller that miscounted funds. How we react in these situations can very well be evidence.
The bigger situations are the bigger tests. How do I react when a friend betrays me, or a partner stands me up, or someone does not share my beliefs. It is important to understand that I may be the only Jesus people see. I can not speak one thing and portray another.
This morning before we left for church, I told my husband "My new prayer is going to be Philippians 1:27." If I make this my prayer, then it will always bring me back to who I am and who I represent. I want to "conduct myself in a manner worhty of the gospel of Christ."
Someone once said "Your behavior will arrive long before your belief does." I want to make sure that how I carry myself says that I represent Christ.
I do not want to hear....busted!
Whatever happens conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I know that you stand firm in one spirit. Philippians 1:27
"If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be evidence to convict you?"
I had to think about that for a bit. Wow, what a question. This would be one case you would not want to be dismissed for lack of evidence.
Today, we saw evidence of Jesus in the lives of teenagers as some of our Seniors 2012 spoke in our church. They spoke of dark times, doubt, faith to move, being in a pit, walls that needed to come down, and the results when Jesus brought then through.
These teens were bold in their stand for Christ. Many will be leaving in the fall for colleges throughout the country. I pray that their testimony and love of Christ will travel with them.
I often think if my life is evidence of my love for Christ. I sometimes get angry at the cashier taking too long, or at the cook that undercooked my steak, or at the teller that miscounted funds. How we react in these situations can very well be evidence.
The bigger situations are the bigger tests. How do I react when a friend betrays me, or a partner stands me up, or someone does not share my beliefs. It is important to understand that I may be the only Jesus people see. I can not speak one thing and portray another.
This morning before we left for church, I told my husband "My new prayer is going to be Philippians 1:27." If I make this my prayer, then it will always bring me back to who I am and who I represent. I want to "conduct myself in a manner worhty of the gospel of Christ."
Someone once said "Your behavior will arrive long before your belief does." I want to make sure that how I carry myself says that I represent Christ.
I do not want to hear....busted!
Whatever happens conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I know that you stand firm in one spirit. Philippians 1:27
Saturday, May 5, 2012
I am Thankful
On Wednesday nights I attend a Ladies Bible Study called Real Woman. Our teacher posted this question on Face Book this morning "What are you thankful for?"
Wow what a question. There are about 10-15 women in that class and I started thinking of what I was thankful for...just me! Well, it is Saturday and it is my day off. Really...my day off. I have nothing to do. I woke up at 4:30 and did my devotion. Having completed that, I read some of my book Fatal Distractions.
At 6:00am, I asked my sister if she wanted to eat breakfast so we met at IHop...we talked, we didn't even eat. So I have the whole rest of the day to "be off" and for that I am thankful.
My son is taking an SAT test this morning, our other son got accepted into Sam Houston State University yesterday and today is our daughter's birthday. My parents are safe, we are healthy and we have a home to live in. We worship in a great church, we have great leadership and fab friends...even those who lose at dominoes. For that I am thankful.
I have to say thank you to Selena Hendrix for reminding me that today, I have many things to be thankful for.
The God who does great wonders, who by his understanding made the heavens. The God who spread out the earth upon the waters, who made the great lights and sent the sun to govern the day and the mon and stars the night-for that, I am thankful!
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever......Psalms 136
Wow what a question. There are about 10-15 women in that class and I started thinking of what I was thankful for...just me! Well, it is Saturday and it is my day off. Really...my day off. I have nothing to do. I woke up at 4:30 and did my devotion. Having completed that, I read some of my book Fatal Distractions.
At 6:00am, I asked my sister if she wanted to eat breakfast so we met at IHop...we talked, we didn't even eat. So I have the whole rest of the day to "be off" and for that I am thankful.
My son is taking an SAT test this morning, our other son got accepted into Sam Houston State University yesterday and today is our daughter's birthday. My parents are safe, we are healthy and we have a home to live in. We worship in a great church, we have great leadership and fab friends...even those who lose at dominoes. For that I am thankful.
I have to say thank you to Selena Hendrix for reminding me that today, I have many things to be thankful for.
The God who does great wonders, who by his understanding made the heavens. The God who spread out the earth upon the waters, who made the great lights and sent the sun to govern the day and the mon and stars the night-for that, I am thankful!
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever......Psalms 136
Friday, May 4, 2012
There is Hope!
Seventeen years ago today, my niece was born. As I wished her a Happy Birthday, I thought of the story of her name.
When it was discovered that it would be a girl, my brother informed the family that her name was to be Alyssa Marie. From that day on, she became Alyssa. Her mother and I were pregnant at the same time but my son was born two months earlier. He didn't have a name yet but everybody knew the girl would be Alyssa Marie.
One month before she was born, they received a phone call that her mother's cousin and maid of honor Kimberly Salinas had been killed by a drunk driver. Her dear friend and bridesmaid, Hope, also in the vehicle was severely injured. It was tragic.
Kimberly Salinas was the only daughter in her family and her parents grieved her deeply. It was a great loss to everyone and a very sad funeral. To add to the grief, Kimberly's birthday would have been one month later. My brother and his family had a tough journey ahead with his wife eight months pregnant.
The following month, Alyssa Marie was born. She was the most beautiful child [all my nieces are] I'd ever seen. I toted my own child to the nursery window where my brother stood in tears. I simply said "Alyssa Marie is beautiful." To my surprise, he whispered "Her name is Kimberly Hope."
As only God could have orchestrated, our Kimberly Hope was born on Kimberly Salinas' birthday...today. Sometimes there just isn't an explaination but we knew this...there was no more Alyssa Marie, she was now Kimberly Hope. Everytime we mention her name, everytime there is a birthday celebration, we remember Kimberly and Hope.
This reminded me of a story where a son was born and it was decided he would be named after his father. The child's mother intervened and said "No-His name shall be John" The tradition was that the boy would be named after the father or a relative and no one existed with this name. Everyone expected that the child's name would be Zechariah.
God had a different plan. This child born to Elizabeth and Zechariah was to be called a prophet of the Most High and would go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him [Luke 1:76]. He would later be known as John the Baptist who prepared the way for our Savior.
Some things can not be explained in our human sense. I can only imagine how my brother felt as he was making that drive to the hospital on May 4th! Kimberly Salinas' parents also went to the hospital to welcome Kimberly Hope into the world on their daughter's birthday only weeks after her death.
I watched her through the window having made her entrance into this world. In looking at her, I knew "There was Hope."
Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child. He asked for a writing tablet, and he wrote "His name is John." Immediately, his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed and he began to speak, praising God. The neighbors were all filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about these things. Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking "What then is this child going to be for the Lord's hand was with him. Luke 1:62-66
Happy Birthday Kimberly Hope!
When it was discovered that it would be a girl, my brother informed the family that her name was to be Alyssa Marie. From that day on, she became Alyssa. Her mother and I were pregnant at the same time but my son was born two months earlier. He didn't have a name yet but everybody knew the girl would be Alyssa Marie.
One month before she was born, they received a phone call that her mother's cousin and maid of honor Kimberly Salinas had been killed by a drunk driver. Her dear friend and bridesmaid, Hope, also in the vehicle was severely injured. It was tragic.
Kimberly Salinas was the only daughter in her family and her parents grieved her deeply. It was a great loss to everyone and a very sad funeral. To add to the grief, Kimberly's birthday would have been one month later. My brother and his family had a tough journey ahead with his wife eight months pregnant.
The following month, Alyssa Marie was born. She was the most beautiful child [all my nieces are] I'd ever seen. I toted my own child to the nursery window where my brother stood in tears. I simply said "Alyssa Marie is beautiful." To my surprise, he whispered "Her name is Kimberly Hope."
As only God could have orchestrated, our Kimberly Hope was born on Kimberly Salinas' birthday...today. Sometimes there just isn't an explaination but we knew this...there was no more Alyssa Marie, she was now Kimberly Hope. Everytime we mention her name, everytime there is a birthday celebration, we remember Kimberly and Hope.
This reminded me of a story where a son was born and it was decided he would be named after his father. The child's mother intervened and said "No-His name shall be John" The tradition was that the boy would be named after the father or a relative and no one existed with this name. Everyone expected that the child's name would be Zechariah.
God had a different plan. This child born to Elizabeth and Zechariah was to be called a prophet of the Most High and would go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him [Luke 1:76]. He would later be known as John the Baptist who prepared the way for our Savior.
Some things can not be explained in our human sense. I can only imagine how my brother felt as he was making that drive to the hospital on May 4th! Kimberly Salinas' parents also went to the hospital to welcome Kimberly Hope into the world on their daughter's birthday only weeks after her death.
I watched her through the window having made her entrance into this world. In looking at her, I knew "There was Hope."
Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child. He asked for a writing tablet, and he wrote "His name is John." Immediately, his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed and he began to speak, praising God. The neighbors were all filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about these things. Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking "What then is this child going to be for the Lord's hand was with him. Luke 1:62-66
Happy Birthday Kimberly Hope!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Let your words be few
For those of you who know me personally, you know I like to talk. I like debates, public speaking, teaching, and about anything else that requires me to make a presentation. I'm usually not shy about initiating conversations.
On this particular day, I happened to be in court with a friend. We were waiting for our time to go before the judge. I was trying to explain how the process worked when the baliff walked in and gave last minute instructions including "do not talk" when court begins.
It was a full room and I've been there before...everyone always talks! When it gets too loud, baliff yells our "order" and there is silence again. As time went on, people went before the judge and were asked questions and given instructions. I found it easy to turn to my friend and tell her something when I heard "If I see ya'll talking one more time, I'm gonna hold you in contempt!" I looked up to see the judge glaring at me. I still had to ask [in my mind of course] "You talking to me?" Fortunately for me, I recognize the authority of a court and you'd better believe I did not say another word!
Of course my friend and I got a good laugh and it made for a good story.
So many times that's how we approach God. We approach him with our wish list or problem solving solutions or just general griping when he has asked us to be still and know that He is God [Psalms 46:10]. We know what he says and we've read the instructions but sometimes we think that He must not know what I am going through or how to fix it and we just want to tell him.
I am wondering how many times God would tell me that He was "holding me in contempt" because I just don't shut up. I just want to reinforce my need or my pain or my desire.
If you think about it, when the judge is talking and I am talking in the background, someone is going to miss something. So it is with us. When we are talking and not allowing God to speak to us, we will miss something. It might be something important.
As for me, I learned my lesson. I will approach a court room with a new respect. I will also guard my steps when I go to the house of God and I will go to listen. The only way I can do that is to let my words be few!
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:1-3
On this particular day, I happened to be in court with a friend. We were waiting for our time to go before the judge. I was trying to explain how the process worked when the baliff walked in and gave last minute instructions including "do not talk" when court begins.
It was a full room and I've been there before...everyone always talks! When it gets too loud, baliff yells our "order" and there is silence again. As time went on, people went before the judge and were asked questions and given instructions. I found it easy to turn to my friend and tell her something when I heard "If I see ya'll talking one more time, I'm gonna hold you in contempt!" I looked up to see the judge glaring at me. I still had to ask [in my mind of course] "You talking to me?" Fortunately for me, I recognize the authority of a court and you'd better believe I did not say another word!
Of course my friend and I got a good laugh and it made for a good story.
So many times that's how we approach God. We approach him with our wish list or problem solving solutions or just general griping when he has asked us to be still and know that He is God [Psalms 46:10]. We know what he says and we've read the instructions but sometimes we think that He must not know what I am going through or how to fix it and we just want to tell him.
I am wondering how many times God would tell me that He was "holding me in contempt" because I just don't shut up. I just want to reinforce my need or my pain or my desire.
If you think about it, when the judge is talking and I am talking in the background, someone is going to miss something. So it is with us. When we are talking and not allowing God to speak to us, we will miss something. It might be something important.
As for me, I learned my lesson. I will approach a court room with a new respect. I will also guard my steps when I go to the house of God and I will go to listen. The only way I can do that is to let my words be few!
Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:1-3
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
I'm sorry!
Yesterday I went to do something I have waited eighteen months for. It was my "independence day." I was finally losing my braces. No more snags, wires, cuts, snaps and all else that goes with it. I was going to be free!
When I arrived, I was the only one in there and was greeted by a lady I have know for years. I met her at a Singles Class in church and we both attend there. She seated me in my chair and explained what was to come.
Once she had completed her portion, Dr. Woehst came in. I love Dr. Woehst. He is always smiling and has such a sensitive, caring spirit. I have to tell you though, when it comes to my teeth, I'm pretty protective.
I have never had a cavity in my life but I do have sensitive teeth. He managed to remove the braces with superb finess. I didn't even feel it. Then it came to removing the adhesive...ouch! He did the best he could but there were a couple of times that it felt he went straight to the nerve. It was painful.
He immediately said "I'm sorry" and continued his task. Again, pain that was pretty intense not because of anything HE was doing, simply because my teeth are so sensitive. He simply stopped and whispered "I'm sorry." One time he whispered "I'm sorry-I'm so so sorry." After about three "I'm sorry's" I said "But you keep doing it!"
All three of us broke out in laughter. This then became today's post. I told Dr. Woehst that the apology was like our apology to God when we sin. We go to God and say I'm sorry; sin again and go to God and say I'm sorry....but we keep doing it.
There is not a single one of us that is without sin [Romans 3:23]. We were born sinners. We may find ourself confessing our sin to God and asking for forgiveness daily. Do not be discouraged. He is a God of forgiveness. He died and was resurrected once to pay for our multiple sins.
God's Word says that "if we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive our sin" everytime. While it was painful and somthing I had to endure, the good news is that after that "I'm sorry" I experienced freedom and you can too!
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you; God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1: 5-9
A special thank you to Dr. Woehst and his staff especially Sondra Cook and Crystal, the best!
When I arrived, I was the only one in there and was greeted by a lady I have know for years. I met her at a Singles Class in church and we both attend there. She seated me in my chair and explained what was to come.
Once she had completed her portion, Dr. Woehst came in. I love Dr. Woehst. He is always smiling and has such a sensitive, caring spirit. I have to tell you though, when it comes to my teeth, I'm pretty protective.
I have never had a cavity in my life but I do have sensitive teeth. He managed to remove the braces with superb finess. I didn't even feel it. Then it came to removing the adhesive...ouch! He did the best he could but there were a couple of times that it felt he went straight to the nerve. It was painful.
He immediately said "I'm sorry" and continued his task. Again, pain that was pretty intense not because of anything HE was doing, simply because my teeth are so sensitive. He simply stopped and whispered "I'm sorry." One time he whispered "I'm sorry-I'm so so sorry." After about three "I'm sorry's" I said "But you keep doing it!"
All three of us broke out in laughter. This then became today's post. I told Dr. Woehst that the apology was like our apology to God when we sin. We go to God and say I'm sorry; sin again and go to God and say I'm sorry....but we keep doing it.
There is not a single one of us that is without sin [Romans 3:23]. We were born sinners. We may find ourself confessing our sin to God and asking for forgiveness daily. Do not be discouraged. He is a God of forgiveness. He died and was resurrected once to pay for our multiple sins.
God's Word says that "if we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive our sin" everytime. While it was painful and somthing I had to endure, the good news is that after that "I'm sorry" I experienced freedom and you can too!
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you; God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1: 5-9
A special thank you to Dr. Woehst and his staff especially Sondra Cook and Crystal, the best!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Learn from the Squirrels
Yesterday I went for a run. Despite the humidity being high and my spunk being low, I ran anyway. I left my house and headed for the greenbelts. There aren't many people out in the middle of the day and it's great.
I was dreading what was to come and knew it would not be at "record speed" although for me that's a slow record. As I was running, I was oblivious that kids were in recess and everyone turned to watch as I ran by.
I was lost in the music that was providing a comfortable pace. I saw a mother with her child at the swings, birds flying in the air and tree stumps...many tree stumps from all the trees that have been cut down. My attention was then turned to just completing the task.
As I continued to run, I saw an elderly couple walking. The man continued to walk but the lady stopped. I assumed she was resting or letting her dog rest and I went past them. As I approached my destination, I saw a squirrel. The squirrel was standing on one of the stumps and it was surrounded with slices of bread. Another squirrel was trying to approach but the original squirrel was protective of the bread.
I smiled and continued my run. Then I saw it. Another squirrel standing on a stump and it was eating strawberries! "Strawberries" I thought, where did a squirrel get strawberries? As I looked harder, I also saw grapes. Wow-a banquet but where did it come from? This squirrel did not mind sharing as there were two others eating strawberries.
Then with the media majic of a CSI show, I retraced my steps in my mind and I could see that elderly lady that had stopped. I recall seeing something in her hand that I now know was a plastic container. She was the one that was delivering the goodies.
I thought how typical of the squirrel to not want to share it's bread when a few paces down, squirrels were eating fruit. I suppose we can sometimes take that attitude of wanting to protect what we have because we are not confident of how the next need will be fulfilled.
You may have heard that the sparrow does not worry where the next meal will come from. Neither do ducks, turtles in a pond, fish, or even squirrels.
God provided for these squirrels. He is a God of provision. Learn from the squirrels.
Look at the birds of the air; they do now sow or reap or store away in barns and yet your heavely Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable then they? Matthew 6:26
I was dreading what was to come and knew it would not be at "record speed" although for me that's a slow record. As I was running, I was oblivious that kids were in recess and everyone turned to watch as I ran by.
I was lost in the music that was providing a comfortable pace. I saw a mother with her child at the swings, birds flying in the air and tree stumps...many tree stumps from all the trees that have been cut down. My attention was then turned to just completing the task.
As I continued to run, I saw an elderly couple walking. The man continued to walk but the lady stopped. I assumed she was resting or letting her dog rest and I went past them. As I approached my destination, I saw a squirrel. The squirrel was standing on one of the stumps and it was surrounded with slices of bread. Another squirrel was trying to approach but the original squirrel was protective of the bread.
I smiled and continued my run. Then I saw it. Another squirrel standing on a stump and it was eating strawberries! "Strawberries" I thought, where did a squirrel get strawberries? As I looked harder, I also saw grapes. Wow-a banquet but where did it come from? This squirrel did not mind sharing as there were two others eating strawberries.
Then with the media majic of a CSI show, I retraced my steps in my mind and I could see that elderly lady that had stopped. I recall seeing something in her hand that I now know was a plastic container. She was the one that was delivering the goodies.
I thought how typical of the squirrel to not want to share it's bread when a few paces down, squirrels were eating fruit. I suppose we can sometimes take that attitude of wanting to protect what we have because we are not confident of how the next need will be fulfilled.
You may have heard that the sparrow does not worry where the next meal will come from. Neither do ducks, turtles in a pond, fish, or even squirrels.
God provided for these squirrels. He is a God of provision. Learn from the squirrels.
Look at the birds of the air; they do now sow or reap or store away in barns and yet your heavely Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable then they? Matthew 6:26
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