Good morning!
Ephesians 3:20-21: God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. (The Message)
Yesterday was an epic day at church! It will go down in Genesis Metro history I bet! The sermon was titled "Dream On" so of course the band performed Aerosmith's Dream On and absolutely rocked it out! The singer is none other than my brother and man I am proud of him. I had no idea he could hit those notes!
Pastor Tim spoke about Joseph and how when God gives you divine dreams, you should be ready for doubters, traitors and possibly even assassination attempts! The Devil wants you to fail as your dreams fall apart. Many of us feel like we've wasted too much time or we are too old to be chasing after a dream. But that is exactly what the enemy wants! More than anything, he wants you to forget the dream altogether.
His sermon also reminded me of this Scripture since I am a consummate day dreamer. I can dream up all kinds of scenarios and plans. But nothing comes close to what God actual brings to pass! His Will is always bigger and better than anything I can ever dream up. He always outperforms, always goes over and beyond, always blows my mind with His goodness. But you have to believe He is able to do it! You have to believe He can do anything...even more than you can dream or imagine! Stop putting limits on God. Don't ever stop dreaming and believing for BIG things. Dream on!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Psalm 139:13-14
Good morning!
Psalm 139:13-14: For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
In honor of my birthday today, I thought I would post this Scripture! Birthdays don't mean much to me anymore now that I have children. It's all about them now! But God reminded me this morning how special I am too. Even though I am 34 years old, He has never forgotten the moment when He designed the plans and pattern of my life. How He knit me together perfectly and grew me a few weeks longer than my due date so that I could be born on August 12, 1977. He made me individually and set apart from all others. He stood back when He was finished and called me a Masterpiece! I will stand and claim that today. Even though I have no big plans and really it is like any normal day for me. But in reality, my life is cause for celebration only because it was such a wonderful work of the Almighty Creator and I will praise Him for it. For if He never made me, my husband wouldn't know true love for a woman and my children would never have been born. My Mother would never have gotten her baby doll that she loved and dressed up and my Grandmother would never have gotten her "Brownie Girl". Stop shutting your life short. Stop underestimating yourself and the importance you bring to others in this world. Stop discounting God's miraculous creation when He made you! Praise Him for you are fearfully and wonderfully made! I know I will today!!
And of course I leave you the The Message version because it is OH SO GOOD!
Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb. I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you. The days of my life all prepared before I'd even lived one day.
Psalm 139:13-14: For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
In honor of my birthday today, I thought I would post this Scripture! Birthdays don't mean much to me anymore now that I have children. It's all about them now! But God reminded me this morning how special I am too. Even though I am 34 years old, He has never forgotten the moment when He designed the plans and pattern of my life. How He knit me together perfectly and grew me a few weeks longer than my due date so that I could be born on August 12, 1977. He made me individually and set apart from all others. He stood back when He was finished and called me a Masterpiece! I will stand and claim that today. Even though I have no big plans and really it is like any normal day for me. But in reality, my life is cause for celebration only because it was such a wonderful work of the Almighty Creator and I will praise Him for it. For if He never made me, my husband wouldn't know true love for a woman and my children would never have been born. My Mother would never have gotten her baby doll that she loved and dressed up and my Grandmother would never have gotten her "Brownie Girl". Stop shutting your life short. Stop underestimating yourself and the importance you bring to others in this world. Stop discounting God's miraculous creation when He made you! Praise Him for you are fearfully and wonderfully made! I know I will today!!
And of course I leave you the The Message version because it is OH SO GOOD!
Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb. I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you. The days of my life all prepared before I'd even lived one day.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Luke 18:16-17
Good morning!
Luke 18:16-17: But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
My church has another group of people down in Honduras right now doing God's good work. They are loving on children, helping in any way they can, working on the tilapia ponds, and praying for those in need. Our Promise Home Orphanage will be built soon and these children who are living in squalor in the current state run orphanage will finally have a nice place to grow and be loved. Two of the group are my mother and my brother. Words cannot describe the feeling I get when I see pictures on Facebook of them together, working and loving on these children. This one picture got me good! And it reminded me of this verse where Jesus rebuked the people for not letting the children come to Him. When I look into these children's faces, I see the Kingdom of God in all of it's innocence and wonderment. I know my mother's and brother's lives will forever be changed and they will never forget those hugs they shared and those prayers they prayed. I hope this picture brings you as much joy and peace as it has brought me!
Luke 18:16-17: But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
My church has another group of people down in Honduras right now doing God's good work. They are loving on children, helping in any way they can, working on the tilapia ponds, and praying for those in need. Our Promise Home Orphanage will be built soon and these children who are living in squalor in the current state run orphanage will finally have a nice place to grow and be loved. Two of the group are my mother and my brother. Words cannot describe the feeling I get when I see pictures on Facebook of them together, working and loving on these children. This one picture got me good! And it reminded me of this verse where Jesus rebuked the people for not letting the children come to Him. When I look into these children's faces, I see the Kingdom of God in all of it's innocence and wonderment. I know my mother's and brother's lives will forever be changed and they will never forget those hugs they shared and those prayers they prayed. I hope this picture brings you as much joy and peace as it has brought me!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Psalm 89:15
Good morning!
Psalm 89:15: Happy are the people who know the joyful shout; LORD, they walk in the light of Your presence.
I was watching The Jesus Culture Awakening 2011 online last night and it was amazing! Hillsong was about to perform but before they came on, Sean Smith spoke to the humongous audience about a really cool story that happened to him when he first got saved. After his story, he led A LOT of people there to know Jesus for the first time and as he prayed, I realized how original he was! His words were so fresh and real, like he was speaking directly to Jesus. He started out his prayer by saying, "Jesus, BE Jesus in this place tonight!" SO cool! He then said something that really stuck with me and I've been thinking about ever since. He wanted to remind everyone that even though they were there in that awesome place surrounded by God's presence, it didn't mean anything if they didn't have God's presence in them. It's not enough to be in God's presence if God's presence is not in you. How cool is that?!
I know it must have been amazing to be in that place last night, singing and praising God. Feeling His presence move and infiltrate that place! But that awesomeness doesn't even come close to the times where I have been alone with Him and His presence was so heavy that it knocked me down! It is awesome to be in this type of corporate setting where His presence flows. But don't forget to make sure you invite His presence into your heart. He seeks that personal connection with you! Without it, those praises and songs are just words. And furthermore, it's always in those times when I am alone in His presence that I loudly hear Him and clearly see Him. Every promise I have ever received from the Lord has been when I am filled up with His presence, seeking Him out and having my own time of worship and praise with Him.
Don't just be in God's presence...make sure it is in you too!
Check out the Jesus Culture Awakening tonight and tomorrow live online. It's an amazing event and I know God is up to something!
Psalm 89:15: Happy are the people who know the joyful shout; LORD, they walk in the light of Your presence.
I was watching The Jesus Culture Awakening 2011 online last night and it was amazing! Hillsong was about to perform but before they came on, Sean Smith spoke to the humongous audience about a really cool story that happened to him when he first got saved. After his story, he led A LOT of people there to know Jesus for the first time and as he prayed, I realized how original he was! His words were so fresh and real, like he was speaking directly to Jesus. He started out his prayer by saying, "Jesus, BE Jesus in this place tonight!" SO cool! He then said something that really stuck with me and I've been thinking about ever since. He wanted to remind everyone that even though they were there in that awesome place surrounded by God's presence, it didn't mean anything if they didn't have God's presence in them. It's not enough to be in God's presence if God's presence is not in you. How cool is that?!
I know it must have been amazing to be in that place last night, singing and praising God. Feeling His presence move and infiltrate that place! But that awesomeness doesn't even come close to the times where I have been alone with Him and His presence was so heavy that it knocked me down! It is awesome to be in this type of corporate setting where His presence flows. But don't forget to make sure you invite His presence into your heart. He seeks that personal connection with you! Without it, those praises and songs are just words. And furthermore, it's always in those times when I am alone in His presence that I loudly hear Him and clearly see Him. Every promise I have ever received from the Lord has been when I am filled up with His presence, seeking Him out and having my own time of worship and praise with Him.
Don't just be in God's presence...make sure it is in you too!
Check out the Jesus Culture Awakening tonight and tomorrow live online. It's an amazing event and I know God is up to something!
Monday, August 1, 2011
2 Samuel 22:29
Good morning!
2 Samuel 22:29: You, O LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light.
I can't stop listening to this song! My husband and I got to see this band in concert a few weeks ago and the lead singer, Aaron was so humble and honest. He made sure to let everyone know that he is just a man and that even though people came to see him, he is no better than anyone. He rushed to the front after the show where his merchandise table was so he could talk to everyone. We got to speak with him for a bit and he is such a nice guy! Love supporting people like that! So go check out My Epic and buy their albums, the newest one is awesome!
Look up the words to this song online. "The darkness has no substance of it's own." "Someday when you come bringin' down the sky. The whole earth will be exposed before your light and there will never again be darkness. When your will is done."
When we talk about what the Lord is to us, we usually always say, redeemer, rock, counselor, Savior. But I hope you know He is also your lamp! All of us have times in our lives when the light bulb goes out and we are in the dark. Call upon Your Lamp and He will turn your darkness into light. Darkness has no substance against the Lamp!
2 Samuel 22:29: You, O LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light.
I can't stop listening to this song! My husband and I got to see this band in concert a few weeks ago and the lead singer, Aaron was so humble and honest. He made sure to let everyone know that he is just a man and that even though people came to see him, he is no better than anyone. He rushed to the front after the show where his merchandise table was so he could talk to everyone. We got to speak with him for a bit and he is such a nice guy! Love supporting people like that! So go check out My Epic and buy their albums, the newest one is awesome!
Look up the words to this song online. "The darkness has no substance of it's own." "Someday when you come bringin' down the sky. The whole earth will be exposed before your light and there will never again be darkness. When your will is done."
When we talk about what the Lord is to us, we usually always say, redeemer, rock, counselor, Savior. But I hope you know He is also your lamp! All of us have times in our lives when the light bulb goes out and we are in the dark. Call upon Your Lamp and He will turn your darkness into light. Darkness has no substance against the Lamp!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Isaiah 40:10-11
Good morning!
Isaiah 40:10-11: See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Sometimes your day just doesn't go as you had planned. Well, it seems my whole week has been like that! I haven't slept a full night all week, this heat wave is making every one cranky, my children are stuck inside and because of their boredom, they decide to attack their poor mother, and because of their loud attacks every day, I think I got my first migraine yesterday and haven't felt well since. I feel run down, overused, beat up, weak. I try my best to have a good attitude but within minutes, I am defeated once again and the day gets longer and longer and worse and worse.
As I read this Scripture this morning, I realized that a lot of my problems stem from me trying to do everything on my own. I don't recognize that my Shepherd is right beside me the whole time. He comes with Power and yet I don't claim it as my own. I reach out to Him out of desperation once everything has slid downhill instead of asking for Him to fill me with His power while I am still on top of the hill, facing the day ahead of me.
This morning, I will let my Shepherd gather me in His arms this morning and hold me close to His heart. And God knows I need to be gently lead since I have 3 year old triplets attached to me at all times, making my hair gray and testing my mouths propensity to spew out curse words. :)
I hope your week has gone better than mine, but if not, know that your Shepherd is there for you and He comes in Power! He tends to His loved ones, He gathers them to His heart as He carries them and He gently leads those who have young. The moms all over the world thank you for that Lord! Have a great weekend everyone!
Isaiah 40:10-11: See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Sometimes your day just doesn't go as you had planned. Well, it seems my whole week has been like that! I haven't slept a full night all week, this heat wave is making every one cranky, my children are stuck inside and because of their boredom, they decide to attack their poor mother, and because of their loud attacks every day, I think I got my first migraine yesterday and haven't felt well since. I feel run down, overused, beat up, weak. I try my best to have a good attitude but within minutes, I am defeated once again and the day gets longer and longer and worse and worse.
As I read this Scripture this morning, I realized that a lot of my problems stem from me trying to do everything on my own. I don't recognize that my Shepherd is right beside me the whole time. He comes with Power and yet I don't claim it as my own. I reach out to Him out of desperation once everything has slid downhill instead of asking for Him to fill me with His power while I am still on top of the hill, facing the day ahead of me.
This morning, I will let my Shepherd gather me in His arms this morning and hold me close to His heart. And God knows I need to be gently lead since I have 3 year old triplets attached to me at all times, making my hair gray and testing my mouths propensity to spew out curse words. :)
I hope your week has gone better than mine, but if not, know that your Shepherd is there for you and He comes in Power! He tends to His loved ones, He gathers them to His heart as He carries them and He gently leads those who have young. The moms all over the world thank you for that Lord! Have a great weekend everyone!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Psalm 40:1-3
Good morning!
Psalm 40:1-3: I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.
This verse describes exactly what happens when you accept Jesus into our heart and are saved. You cry out to Him in desperation, with an open and repentant heart. He turns immediately to you, hears you and touches your life. He lifts you out of the suffocating quick sand that you were existing in. He brings you out of the dirt and filth and you feel clean again. Only used to feeling shaky and unsure, you are surprised when He sets your feet on solid ground and you can finally stand tall for all the world to see. Your old language is replaced by a new song of praise. Liberation feels so good that all you want to do is climb to a mountaintop and shout your new song for all the world to hear.
If you think you are stuck in mud and slime so deep that you can never get out, think again. God CAN pull you up and He CAN bring you out. There is nothing too big for God to extract. There is no mess too dirty that God can not only clean, but make it so that it looks as if it were never there in the first place. There is no condition that can keep God from making your feet stand sure and walk with purpose for all eternity.
He can bring you up.
He can bring you out.
He can clean you up.
He can help you stand.
He can put a new song in your heart.
The old can pass away; He can make all things new. All you have to do is cry out and watch Him turn.
Psalm 40:1-3: I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.
This verse describes exactly what happens when you accept Jesus into our heart and are saved. You cry out to Him in desperation, with an open and repentant heart. He turns immediately to you, hears you and touches your life. He lifts you out of the suffocating quick sand that you were existing in. He brings you out of the dirt and filth and you feel clean again. Only used to feeling shaky and unsure, you are surprised when He sets your feet on solid ground and you can finally stand tall for all the world to see. Your old language is replaced by a new song of praise. Liberation feels so good that all you want to do is climb to a mountaintop and shout your new song for all the world to hear.
If you think you are stuck in mud and slime so deep that you can never get out, think again. God CAN pull you up and He CAN bring you out. There is nothing too big for God to extract. There is no mess too dirty that God can not only clean, but make it so that it looks as if it were never there in the first place. There is no condition that can keep God from making your feet stand sure and walk with purpose for all eternity.
He can bring you up.
He can bring you out.
He can clean you up.
He can help you stand.
He can put a new song in your heart.
The old can pass away; He can make all things new. All you have to do is cry out and watch Him turn.
Monday, July 25, 2011
John 1:29
Good morning!
John 1:29: The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
We've been talking a lot about the Lamb of God this past month at church. Last Sunday, my Pastor spoke of the resurrection and it reminded me that the crucifixion of Jesus would have meant nothing if it had not have been for the resurrection! He paid it all on the cross. All our blood-red sins are washed as white as snow. And then he raised Himself from the grave and is alive right where He is supposed to be, with His Father. I love this song we sang at church Sunday and I wanted to share it with the world in case you haven't heard it yet.
Praise the One who paid my debt and raised His life up from the dead!
John 1:29: The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
We've been talking a lot about the Lamb of God this past month at church. Last Sunday, my Pastor spoke of the resurrection and it reminded me that the crucifixion of Jesus would have meant nothing if it had not have been for the resurrection! He paid it all on the cross. All our blood-red sins are washed as white as snow. And then he raised Himself from the grave and is alive right where He is supposed to be, with His Father. I love this song we sang at church Sunday and I wanted to share it with the world in case you haven't heard it yet.
Praise the One who paid my debt and raised His life up from the dead!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Matthew 11:28-30
Good morning!
Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
The Lord was speaking verse 30 to me this morning as I laid in bed and listened to my kids already up early and watching TV. Over and over again. It takes me a little bit to get the hint. Oh, maybe I need to write about this this morning! I looked back at previous Quick Words and I had already written about this two summers ago. But I think because there are so many people who are weary and burdened right now that it needs to be addressed once again!
We all know this Scripture; it is one we hear a lot. But check out The Message version!
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fighting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Oh man that is good! Don't you just love God's Word?! Two years ago, I wrote about this Scripture because I was going through a lot at once. House problems, work problems, kid problems. All at once fell on top of us. But this version of the Scripture goes deeper than that doesn't it? How many people out there are tired, worn out and burned out on religion? How many people are so entangled in their lives that they can never get away and spend just 10 minutes alone with God? How many people feel like they have reached the end of their rope? How many people just want to let go of the rope altogether? Just drop the rope!! Go with God and get away with Him. He is the only prescription for recovery. Walk and work with Him. Watch how He does it! I bet you will find that how you were doing it is all wrong. His whole goal is to teach you how to live freely and lightly while doing His Kingdom work. I don't know about you but I am so ready to learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I am ready for my load to be lightened. I am ready to get away with Him and recover my life. I am ready to take a real rest. Jesus said, "Come to me." Will you come?
Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
The Lord was speaking verse 30 to me this morning as I laid in bed and listened to my kids already up early and watching TV. Over and over again. It takes me a little bit to get the hint. Oh, maybe I need to write about this this morning! I looked back at previous Quick Words and I had already written about this two summers ago. But I think because there are so many people who are weary and burdened right now that it needs to be addressed once again!
We all know this Scripture; it is one we hear a lot. But check out The Message version!
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fighting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Oh man that is good! Don't you just love God's Word?! Two years ago, I wrote about this Scripture because I was going through a lot at once. House problems, work problems, kid problems. All at once fell on top of us. But this version of the Scripture goes deeper than that doesn't it? How many people out there are tired, worn out and burned out on religion? How many people are so entangled in their lives that they can never get away and spend just 10 minutes alone with God? How many people feel like they have reached the end of their rope? How many people just want to let go of the rope altogether? Just drop the rope!! Go with God and get away with Him. He is the only prescription for recovery. Walk and work with Him. Watch how He does it! I bet you will find that how you were doing it is all wrong. His whole goal is to teach you how to live freely and lightly while doing His Kingdom work. I don't know about you but I am so ready to learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I am ready for my load to be lightened. I am ready to get away with Him and recover my life. I am ready to take a real rest. Jesus said, "Come to me." Will you come?
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Revelation 5:12
Good morning!
Revelation 5:12: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
I've always been taught that the way you end your prayers is, "In Jesus name we pray, Amen." When I heard my pastor talk about this Scripture last week, I decided I wanted to start using this instead. I want to teach my kids this now, so it will be engrained in them. The knowledge that Jesus is the Lamb that was slain for all of our sins. He deserves all the power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!
Check out this sermon from our church. Genesis Metro Church Click on "Latest Message"and if you listen to the end, you'll hear about this Scripture. The mp3 is http://www.genesismetro.org/media/audio/messages/20110717.mp3
Pastor Tim explains so eloquently what Jesus went through for all sinners and what really happened on the Mount of Transfiguration. Very cool!!
Revelation 5:12: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
I've always been taught that the way you end your prayers is, "In Jesus name we pray, Amen." When I heard my pastor talk about this Scripture last week, I decided I wanted to start using this instead. I want to teach my kids this now, so it will be engrained in them. The knowledge that Jesus is the Lamb that was slain for all of our sins. He deserves all the power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!
Check out this sermon from our church. Genesis Metro Church Click on "Latest Message"and if you listen to the end, you'll hear about this Scripture. The mp3 is http://www.genesismetro.org/media/audio/messages/20110717.mp3
Pastor Tim explains so eloquently what Jesus went through for all sinners and what really happened on the Mount of Transfiguration. Very cool!!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
2 Timothy: 20-21
2 Timothy: 20-21: In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets - some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. (The Message)
Last October, while attending my church's Women's Retreat, I picked out from a tub of rolled up Scriptures 2 Timothy. It was an actual torn page out of a Bible so it was front and back which covered chapters 1-3. I knew instantly why I had chosen this one; why God designed for me only to read this Book. What I love about it is every time I re-read it, a different verse jumps out at me. Whatever I am going through, there are words in these few chapters that always seem to be exactly what I need to hear. And this morning was no exception.
I pulled out my Message Bible to compare the verses and somehow I just understood verses 20 and 21 better in The Message version. It's simple and to the point which totally describes me in a nut shell!
A lot of people struggle with knowing what God has called them to do. Is it a ministry? Do I lead a Bible Study in my church? Do I volunteer with a local ministry? Sometimes the thinking overwhelms us and then we just end up doing nothing because we don't want to get ahead of God. Excuses, excuses! I think this Scripture explains plainly what we ALL are supposed to be doing. And that is being a blessing to others. However that comes about, in our everyday lives, at work, with our family and friends, we are to be a blessing to others.
The more I read this, the more I kept asking, "How do I become the kind of container God can use?" First, I have to open my mind. I have to get out of my own way and realize that maybe this time, I don't need to be refined and proper to reach someone. Maybe the way to be a blessing to someone is get down and dirty. Maybe I have to go into the dark alleys where the trash is kept. Maybe I have to get out of my comfort zone and go where I usually don't. God is looking for containers He can use to present gifts to hurting people. But I bet most people expect it to come in a special golden box and not a cardboard box. It reminds me of the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. They finally find the Knight who guards the cup that Jesus drank out of at the Last Supper. All these beautiful and ornate goblets were displayed yet it was the small wooden cup that was the winner. God doesn't need the bright and fancy things of this world to bring people to Him. He Himself is bright and fancy...all that other stuff just gets in the way of His awesome Glory!
2 Timothy 3:17 I think goes great with the above referenced Scripture. It's a great ending to this message. I believe it gives us the perfect equation to accomplish becoming the container God wants us to become. "Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." How do you know what God has for you to do? You get in His Word. He will put together and shape you. We are called to reach those who are hurting and lost. They may be in the dirty streets where light no longer shines. You may not speak as a refined and educated pastor but if you go and present yourself as something God has put together, it won't matter what you sound or look like, your container will be a blessing!
Who is God asking you to bless this week?
Last October, while attending my church's Women's Retreat, I picked out from a tub of rolled up Scriptures 2 Timothy. It was an actual torn page out of a Bible so it was front and back which covered chapters 1-3. I knew instantly why I had chosen this one; why God designed for me only to read this Book. What I love about it is every time I re-read it, a different verse jumps out at me. Whatever I am going through, there are words in these few chapters that always seem to be exactly what I need to hear. And this morning was no exception.
I pulled out my Message Bible to compare the verses and somehow I just understood verses 20 and 21 better in The Message version. It's simple and to the point which totally describes me in a nut shell!
A lot of people struggle with knowing what God has called them to do. Is it a ministry? Do I lead a Bible Study in my church? Do I volunteer with a local ministry? Sometimes the thinking overwhelms us and then we just end up doing nothing because we don't want to get ahead of God. Excuses, excuses! I think this Scripture explains plainly what we ALL are supposed to be doing. And that is being a blessing to others. However that comes about, in our everyday lives, at work, with our family and friends, we are to be a blessing to others.
The more I read this, the more I kept asking, "How do I become the kind of container God can use?" First, I have to open my mind. I have to get out of my own way and realize that maybe this time, I don't need to be refined and proper to reach someone. Maybe the way to be a blessing to someone is get down and dirty. Maybe I have to go into the dark alleys where the trash is kept. Maybe I have to get out of my comfort zone and go where I usually don't. God is looking for containers He can use to present gifts to hurting people. But I bet most people expect it to come in a special golden box and not a cardboard box. It reminds me of the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. They finally find the Knight who guards the cup that Jesus drank out of at the Last Supper. All these beautiful and ornate goblets were displayed yet it was the small wooden cup that was the winner. God doesn't need the bright and fancy things of this world to bring people to Him. He Himself is bright and fancy...all that other stuff just gets in the way of His awesome Glory!
2 Timothy 3:17 I think goes great with the above referenced Scripture. It's a great ending to this message. I believe it gives us the perfect equation to accomplish becoming the container God wants us to become. "Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." How do you know what God has for you to do? You get in His Word. He will put together and shape you. We are called to reach those who are hurting and lost. They may be in the dirty streets where light no longer shines. You may not speak as a refined and educated pastor but if you go and present yourself as something God has put together, it won't matter what you sound or look like, your container will be a blessing!
Who is God asking you to bless this week?
Monday, July 18, 2011
Romans 8:14-15
Romans 8:14-15: For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”
We've been singing this awesome song in church the past few weeks and I love it so much I wanted to share it with the world.
In honesty, I have not been living up to my true potential and birthright lately. What an honor it is to be called a daughter of the King and yet I take for granted a lot of the privileges that go with that title. I neglect the accessibility through prayer to my Father daily. I allow myself to exist in a weakened state instead of claiming the power that rose Christ from the dead. I unknowingly share in His glory; just a little bit still counts! Most of all, I put other indulgences in front of the King of the Universe. As you can see, I have a lot of work to do! But that's okay because we all do!
This song speaks to the true meaning of Christianity which is relationship. What a true relationship between a son or daughter with his or her Father should be. Acknowledging the freedom we have from the mistakes our earthly families made in our lives. Taking hold of the victory that is ours because of what the Father asked His only Son to do at the Cross. Thanking Him for driving the darkness out so that we could see again and for all eternity. There is nothing in the world that can separate us from His love but we sure do take the scenic route a lot of the times, don't we?!
It is my goal to reconnect back to my Father and step back into the role that I know He sees for me. I want to start seeing myself as the Princess He created me to be. The daughter who has a divine purpose and position to adhere to in His Kingdom. I want to make my Abba proud!
Love has a Name. Turn back to Your Father and reclaim your sonship today!
We've been singing this awesome song in church the past few weeks and I love it so much I wanted to share it with the world.
In honesty, I have not been living up to my true potential and birthright lately. What an honor it is to be called a daughter of the King and yet I take for granted a lot of the privileges that go with that title. I neglect the accessibility through prayer to my Father daily. I allow myself to exist in a weakened state instead of claiming the power that rose Christ from the dead. I unknowingly share in His glory; just a little bit still counts! Most of all, I put other indulgences in front of the King of the Universe. As you can see, I have a lot of work to do! But that's okay because we all do!
This song speaks to the true meaning of Christianity which is relationship. What a true relationship between a son or daughter with his or her Father should be. Acknowledging the freedom we have from the mistakes our earthly families made in our lives. Taking hold of the victory that is ours because of what the Father asked His only Son to do at the Cross. Thanking Him for driving the darkness out so that we could see again and for all eternity. There is nothing in the world that can separate us from His love but we sure do take the scenic route a lot of the times, don't we?!
It is my goal to reconnect back to my Father and step back into the role that I know He sees for me. I want to start seeing myself as the Princess He created me to be. The daughter who has a divine purpose and position to adhere to in His Kingdom. I want to make my Abba proud!
Love has a Name. Turn back to Your Father and reclaim your sonship today!
Romans 8:14-15
Romans 8:14-15: For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”
We've been singing this awesome song in church the past few weeks and I love it so much I wanted to share it with the world.
In honesty, I have not been living up to my true potential and birthright lately. What an honor it is to be called a daughter of the King and yet I take for granted a lot of the privileges that go with that title. The neglect the accessibility through prayer to my Father daily. I allow myself to be exist in a weakened state instead of claiming the power that rose Christ from the dead. I unknowingly share in His glory; just a little bit still counts! Most of all, I put other indulgences in front of the King of the Universe. As you can see, I have a lot of work to do! But that's okay because we all do!
This song speaks to the true meaning of Christianity which is relationship. What a true relationship between a son or daughter with his or her Father should be. Acknowledging the freedom we have from the mistakes our earthly families made in our lives. Taking hold of the victory that is ours because of what the Father asked His only Son to do at the Cross. Thanking Him for driving the darkness out so that we could see again and for all eternity. There is nothing in the world that can separate us from His love but we sure do take the scenic route a lot of the times, don't we?!
It is my goal to reconnect back to my Father and step back into the role that I know He sees for me. I want to start seeing myself as the Princess He created me to be. The daughter who has a divine purpose and position to adhere to in His Kingdom. I want to make my Abba proud!
Love has a Name. Turn back to Your Father and reclaim your sonship today!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1N3zac7648
We've been singing this awesome song in church the past few weeks and I love it so much I wanted to share it with the world.
In honesty, I have not been living up to my true potential and birthright lately. What an honor it is to be called a daughter of the King and yet I take for granted a lot of the privileges that go with that title. The neglect the accessibility through prayer to my Father daily. I allow myself to be exist in a weakened state instead of claiming the power that rose Christ from the dead. I unknowingly share in His glory; just a little bit still counts! Most of all, I put other indulgences in front of the King of the Universe. As you can see, I have a lot of work to do! But that's okay because we all do!
This song speaks to the true meaning of Christianity which is relationship. What a true relationship between a son or daughter with his or her Father should be. Acknowledging the freedom we have from the mistakes our earthly families made in our lives. Taking hold of the victory that is ours because of what the Father asked His only Son to do at the Cross. Thanking Him for driving the darkness out so that we could see again and for all eternity. There is nothing in the world that can separate us from His love but we sure do take the scenic route a lot of the times, don't we?!
It is my goal to reconnect back to my Father and step back into the role that I know He sees for me. I want to start seeing myself as the Princess He created me to be. The daughter who has a divine purpose and position to adhere to in His Kingdom. I want to make my Abba proud!
Love has a Name. Turn back to Your Father and reclaim your sonship today!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1N3zac7648
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Luke 24:3-6
Good morning!
Luke 24:3-6: They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground. "Why are you looking for the living among the dead?" asked the men. "He is not here, but He has been resurrected!"
I know this seems like a strange Scripture for Winning Souls Wednesday but that question the angels asked just jumped right out at me. That used to be the epitome of my life: looking for living things among dead things, thinking they would bring me joy. More than anything, I felt dead inside and desperately wanted to feel alive. I believe that is what everyone wants when they really think about it.
My mom got involved with a group when I was a teenager called the Landmark Forum. I have vague memories of it but after Googling it, I see a lot of people felt the same way I did back then. It is a cult! Self-help seminar, derived from Scientology, give me your money to obtain a revelation kind of cult. I remember them telling me I wasn't opening my brain up to them and then the other memory was the leader saying he could heal anyone's headache just by visualizing the pain and in layers, believing it to go away. They even tested it on a girl and of course, her headache went away as everyone was staring at her. What else was she going to say?! Thankfully, we did not stay long but looking back, all those people were just in search mode. Trying anything and testing whatever they could to feel alive and loved.
As we are about to celebrate Easter this weekend, I am reminded of my journey. Before Jesus, I always looked to dead, cold, inanimate, and lifeless things to fill me. After Jesus, the truth that He died on that cross for me isn't the end of the story. He doesn't rot in that tomb, dead and cold and inanimate and lifeless. He was raised from the dead and is alive! He is not a ghost that can never be approached. He is not a story trapped inside a book. He is not a deity that was with men thousands of years ago but we are left on our own. No! He is real, flesh and bone and sitting at the right hand of His Father, praying for you right now. Stop looking for the living among the dead!
Later that day, Jesus came back to His disciples and showed himself them since they still didn't believe He was alive. He said in verse 46: “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Jesus fulfilled this promise just for you! I promise when you realize and come to the truth that He is alive and He is what you've been looking for, your old life dies away and a new creation is born! It's an amazing feeling to feel alive and be able to envision a bright future. I was existing before Jesus but not truly living. As I look back, I always wonder...why did it take me so long?!
Happy Easter everyone!!
Luke 24:3-6: They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground. "Why are you looking for the living among the dead?" asked the men. "He is not here, but He has been resurrected!"
I know this seems like a strange Scripture for Winning Souls Wednesday but that question the angels asked just jumped right out at me. That used to be the epitome of my life: looking for living things among dead things, thinking they would bring me joy. More than anything, I felt dead inside and desperately wanted to feel alive. I believe that is what everyone wants when they really think about it.
My mom got involved with a group when I was a teenager called the Landmark Forum. I have vague memories of it but after Googling it, I see a lot of people felt the same way I did back then. It is a cult! Self-help seminar, derived from Scientology, give me your money to obtain a revelation kind of cult. I remember them telling me I wasn't opening my brain up to them and then the other memory was the leader saying he could heal anyone's headache just by visualizing the pain and in layers, believing it to go away. They even tested it on a girl and of course, her headache went away as everyone was staring at her. What else was she going to say?! Thankfully, we did not stay long but looking back, all those people were just in search mode. Trying anything and testing whatever they could to feel alive and loved.
As we are about to celebrate Easter this weekend, I am reminded of my journey. Before Jesus, I always looked to dead, cold, inanimate, and lifeless things to fill me. After Jesus, the truth that He died on that cross for me isn't the end of the story. He doesn't rot in that tomb, dead and cold and inanimate and lifeless. He was raised from the dead and is alive! He is not a ghost that can never be approached. He is not a story trapped inside a book. He is not a deity that was with men thousands of years ago but we are left on our own. No! He is real, flesh and bone and sitting at the right hand of His Father, praying for you right now. Stop looking for the living among the dead!
Later that day, Jesus came back to His disciples and showed himself them since they still didn't believe He was alive. He said in verse 46: “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Jesus fulfilled this promise just for you! I promise when you realize and come to the truth that He is alive and He is what you've been looking for, your old life dies away and a new creation is born! It's an amazing feeling to feel alive and be able to envision a bright future. I was existing before Jesus but not truly living. As I look back, I always wonder...why did it take me so long?!
Happy Easter everyone!!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Exodus 3:13-15
Good morning!
Exodus 3:13-15: Then Moses asked God, "If I go to the Israelites and say to them: The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they ask me, 'What is His name?' what should I tell them?" God replied to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you." God also said to Moses, "Say this to the Israelites: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever; this is how I am to be remembered in every generation.
God responds to Moses not with a name that would put limits on Him in any way. Instead, He replies with the statement that He is the permanent substance and foundation that always will be and act as He wills. He is all and everything we need, for every need and want. He was and is and is to come. He has been here before the stars and planets, He is here in this world that continually decides to deny Him, and He will be here when this world is nothing but a memory. This song is an awesome example of "I AM WHO I AM". Praise Him this morning, not because of what He can do for you but just because of who He is.
Exodus 3:13-15: Then Moses asked God, "If I go to the Israelites and say to them: The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they ask me, 'What is His name?' what should I tell them?" God replied to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you." God also said to Moses, "Say this to the Israelites: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever; this is how I am to be remembered in every generation.
God responds to Moses not with a name that would put limits on Him in any way. Instead, He replies with the statement that He is the permanent substance and foundation that always will be and act as He wills. He is all and everything we need, for every need and want. He was and is and is to come. He has been here before the stars and planets, He is here in this world that continually decides to deny Him, and He will be here when this world is nothing but a memory. This song is an awesome example of "I AM WHO I AM". Praise Him this morning, not because of what He can do for you but just because of who He is.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Matthew 7:13-14
Good morning!
Matthew 7:13-14: Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who go through it. How narrow is the gate and difficult the road that leads to life, and few find it.
The Lord woke me up at 5:00AM with this Scripture in my head and I've been thinking about it ever since. Jesus is speaking about the Kingdom of Heaven in this chapter and the road it takes to get there. In John 14:6-7, Jesus declares HE is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. If we know Jesus, then we will know His Father too.
So the road that we walk that leads to the gate of Heaven is a picture of our salvation through Jesus Christ.
I very well could have been one of the many that did not find the narrow gate. I looked up narrow in the dictionary to get a better picture of the word. It means a slender width, minutely precise.
I started thinking back to when I was an unbeliever and all the reasons I used to come up with in my mind not to accept Jesus as my Savior. I heard it all but I just couldn't make the decision. It sounded like too much to give up. So I kept walking the broad path of destruction, with all of my junk and issues dragging along with me.
The gate is narrow because the path is only big enough for you to walk it. You can't bring your family along with you if you truly put Jesus first and take up your cross and follow after Him (Matthew 16:24). You won't have room for all the junk and issues because there is freedom and liberty in His salvation (Galatians 5:1).You can't try to be like anyone else because God has a special plan just for you; this is your journey (Jeremiah 29:11).
God knew it would be difficult to walk the narrow road because of all the road blocks the world throws at us. The Devil desperately wants us to miss the path that leads to that precious narrow gate and instead go along with the masses down the broad path of destruction that is so deceptively decorated with "fun" and "good times". That road is full of the mind set of it's all about me, and how can I make myself feel better and how much more stuff can I get to complete me. That road leads to death.
But once you turn down the narrow path that leads to that gate, your mind set changes to it's all about Him, and how can I bring Him glory, and what can I give to help others in need. That road leads to life.
Think about it...how easy is it to live for yourself, giving in to your fleshly desires, satisfying yourself before anyone else? How difficult is it to set your mind on unearthly ways, think of others before yourself, give first and then save, love your enemies, believe and trust in a hope that others can't see? Living for ourselves brings death and living for Jesus brings life. It may seem like the other way around when you are trying to make the decision on which road to take. I know it did to me 12 years ago. But since I chose the narrow path, I have never looked back. Nothing compares to His love! I found everything I was looking for and needed on that path and I will continue to walk it until it's my time to enter through that gate. To my eternal home.
Stay the course. Don't falter just because the road is narrow. Don't get tripped up by bringing more than you should with you on your journey or trying to be someone you are not. He is all you will ever need and He provides all you need to keep going. The narrow gate that is the entrance to Heaven is calling us all. Be one of the few who finds it!
Matthew 7:13-14: Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who go through it. How narrow is the gate and difficult the road that leads to life, and few find it.
The Lord woke me up at 5:00AM with this Scripture in my head and I've been thinking about it ever since. Jesus is speaking about the Kingdom of Heaven in this chapter and the road it takes to get there. In John 14:6-7, Jesus declares HE is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. If we know Jesus, then we will know His Father too.
So the road that we walk that leads to the gate of Heaven is a picture of our salvation through Jesus Christ.
I very well could have been one of the many that did not find the narrow gate. I looked up narrow in the dictionary to get a better picture of the word. It means a slender width, minutely precise.
I started thinking back to when I was an unbeliever and all the reasons I used to come up with in my mind not to accept Jesus as my Savior. I heard it all but I just couldn't make the decision. It sounded like too much to give up. So I kept walking the broad path of destruction, with all of my junk and issues dragging along with me.
The gate is narrow because the path is only big enough for you to walk it. You can't bring your family along with you if you truly put Jesus first and take up your cross and follow after Him (Matthew 16:24). You won't have room for all the junk and issues because there is freedom and liberty in His salvation (Galatians 5:1).You can't try to be like anyone else because God has a special plan just for you; this is your journey (Jeremiah 29:11).
God knew it would be difficult to walk the narrow road because of all the road blocks the world throws at us. The Devil desperately wants us to miss the path that leads to that precious narrow gate and instead go along with the masses down the broad path of destruction that is so deceptively decorated with "fun" and "good times". That road is full of the mind set of it's all about me, and how can I make myself feel better and how much more stuff can I get to complete me. That road leads to death.
But once you turn down the narrow path that leads to that gate, your mind set changes to it's all about Him, and how can I bring Him glory, and what can I give to help others in need. That road leads to life.
Think about it...how easy is it to live for yourself, giving in to your fleshly desires, satisfying yourself before anyone else? How difficult is it to set your mind on unearthly ways, think of others before yourself, give first and then save, love your enemies, believe and trust in a hope that others can't see? Living for ourselves brings death and living for Jesus brings life. It may seem like the other way around when you are trying to make the decision on which road to take. I know it did to me 12 years ago. But since I chose the narrow path, I have never looked back. Nothing compares to His love! I found everything I was looking for and needed on that path and I will continue to walk it until it's my time to enter through that gate. To my eternal home.
Stay the course. Don't falter just because the road is narrow. Don't get tripped up by bringing more than you should with you on your journey or trying to be someone you are not. He is all you will ever need and He provides all you need to keep going. The narrow gate that is the entrance to Heaven is calling us all. Be one of the few who finds it!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Psalm 97:9
Good morning!!
Exalt: 1. to raise in rank, power, or character. {EXALT} 2. to elevate by praise or in estimation. {GLORIFY} 3. to raise high. {ELEVATE} 4. to enhance the activity of. {INTENSIFY}
We sang this song at church yesterday and it is one of my favorites! Maybe because my brother who is the worship leader at church rocks it out! It is no longer an outdated hymn when the band starts playing. It is alive and anointed and powerful. And VERY loud! I can't help but lift my hands, display my best air drumming and dance like I am in a club! Somehow, I can see the angels doing the same thing in Heaven.
But this song also gets me thinking about what I exalt on an every day basis. Who am I exalting? What do I glorify? What is elevated in my life over me? Am I intensifying anything and if so, is it the right something? Lately, God has been in the middle for me with a lot of other things above Him. I don't know how it happens, small choices I am sure. Justifying my actions somehow. And then I sing this song. And I am brought to my knees. My heart cracks open. His love floods over me and I realize He is the One I am leaving below and behind and beside.
He is over all of the earth, all of Creation, over all the cosmos The Message version says. That amount of space is mind-blowing to me; I cannot really fathom. He created it all yet He cares for me. He is worthy of my exaltation and I hope as you watch this 9 minute video of Jesus Culture rocking this song out, that you will exalt and glorify and elevate and intensify your relationship with the God of all creation. The God that loves you.
Psalm 97:9: For You, LORD, are the Most High over all the earth; You are exalted above all the gods.
Exalt: 1. to raise in rank, power, or character. {EXALT} 2. to elevate by praise or in estimation. {GLORIFY} 3. to raise high. {ELEVATE} 4. to enhance the activity of. {INTENSIFY}
We sang this song at church yesterday and it is one of my favorites! Maybe because my brother who is the worship leader at church rocks it out! It is no longer an outdated hymn when the band starts playing. It is alive and anointed and powerful. And VERY loud! I can't help but lift my hands, display my best air drumming and dance like I am in a club! Somehow, I can see the angels doing the same thing in Heaven.
But this song also gets me thinking about what I exalt on an every day basis. Who am I exalting? What do I glorify? What is elevated in my life over me? Am I intensifying anything and if so, is it the right something? Lately, God has been in the middle for me with a lot of other things above Him. I don't know how it happens, small choices I am sure. Justifying my actions somehow. And then I sing this song. And I am brought to my knees. My heart cracks open. His love floods over me and I realize He is the One I am leaving below and behind and beside.
He is over all of the earth, all of Creation, over all the cosmos The Message version says. That amount of space is mind-blowing to me; I cannot really fathom. He created it all yet He cares for me. He is worthy of my exaltation and I hope as you watch this 9 minute video of Jesus Culture rocking this song out, that you will exalt and glorify and elevate and intensify your relationship with the God of all creation. The God that loves you.
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