VERY POWERFUL MESSAGE
David Platt from InterVarsity twentyonehundred on Vimeo.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
SHRIMP, SNAILS, SLEDDING & SKATING
These words describe our day today.
SHRIMP, ESCARGOT
JESUS' BIRTHDAY CAKE
We woke up to two fresh inches of snow... just enough for some sledding!
And... the neighbor's pond had some beautiful smooth ice for some skating!
Merry CHRISTmas!!!
PONDERINGS FROM 1 JOHN 3 -- Part 1: Love
1 John 3:1 "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God."
"Bestowed on us" can also be translated "lavished on us". It has the idea of a one-sided giving, not a return for something. Spurgeon says this about it... "I have published it before heaven and earth, and made the angels know it, that you are my children, and I am not ashamed of you. I glory in the fact that I have taken you for sons and daughters."
Guzik says, "If we are truly children of God, then it should show in our likeness to God, and in our love for our 'siblings'."
Being the Christmas season, I have been pondering a lot about this holiday as of late. I have been asking myself, and inquiring of the Lord as well, about what glorifies Him through this holiday. How much of what I do as we celebrate "Christmas" brings Him glory, and how much grieves Him? These are questions we all should be asking ourselves and going to the Word to find answers for & then walking in obedience when He shows us.
Today, Christmas Day 2012, I have been pondering His love. It has brought me rest today as I thought so much about His birth.... and His death. We sang a song at church a few weeks ago that said, "He was born to die." His sole purpose for being born was to bear the wrath of God for my sin, so that I can in turn receive life that only Christ deserved. Not only do I deserve death, but I deserve God's wrath. But, because He was born, instead of wrath and death, I get love and the title "child of God". That is love.
To be a child of God, we must have regenerated hearts. We must be "born again" as Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3, and be made "new creations" as Paul talks about in 2 Cor. 5:17. We are saved by grace through faith. It is a gift of God -- the greatest gift ever given. If you are truly His child, you will bear a likeness to God.
"Bestowed on us" can also be translated "lavished on us". It has the idea of a one-sided giving, not a return for something. Spurgeon says this about it... "I have published it before heaven and earth, and made the angels know it, that you are my children, and I am not ashamed of you. I glory in the fact that I have taken you for sons and daughters."
Guzik says, "If we are truly children of God, then it should show in our likeness to God, and in our love for our 'siblings'."
Being the Christmas season, I have been pondering a lot about this holiday as of late. I have been asking myself, and inquiring of the Lord as well, about what glorifies Him through this holiday. How much of what I do as we celebrate "Christmas" brings Him glory, and how much grieves Him? These are questions we all should be asking ourselves and going to the Word to find answers for & then walking in obedience when He shows us.
Today, Christmas Day 2012, I have been pondering His love. It has brought me rest today as I thought so much about His birth.... and His death. We sang a song at church a few weeks ago that said, "He was born to die." His sole purpose for being born was to bear the wrath of God for my sin, so that I can in turn receive life that only Christ deserved. Not only do I deserve death, but I deserve God's wrath. But, because He was born, instead of wrath and death, I get love and the title "child of God". That is love.
To be a child of God, we must have regenerated hearts. We must be "born again" as Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3, and be made "new creations" as Paul talks about in 2 Cor. 5:17. We are saved by grace through faith. It is a gift of God -- the greatest gift ever given. If you are truly His child, you will bear a likeness to God.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
THE LIGHT
"Do any of us shun the light? I know some men slight the privileges they ought to prize. They do not want to know him whose going forth is as the light of the morning when the sun riseth. They never read the Bible, or search into the history, the prophecy, and the promises. They do not like an earnest ministry. They have a sort of happy-go-lucky style of religion; they take in whatever anybody else tells them; they attend their place of worship as a matter of habit, and observe all the proprieties of fashion; but as to doing right or seeking light, they seldom or never give it a thought. They do not count it desirable. Too much light could expose much that would not bear inspection. Dear friend, if you are afraid of light, be suspicious of yourself, for it is deceit that dreads detection. " (Spurgeon)
Following Christ is light. Light shows us where we are going, what is around us and helps us see clearly. We can see beauty and avoid danger. We do not stumble when there is light. I desire this Light to radiate life for me as I walk, and oh, how I desire to show others this Light.
Merry Christmas to all! JESUS is this LIGHT. If you do not walk in it, cry out to God today. Maybe you are one described in this second paragraph by Spurgeon who has the "happy-go-lucky" religion. Repent and believe the Gospel! There is nothing more important than a soul transformed by the power of God and made into a new creation for all eternity. It changes everything. What a gift God has given us in Jesus Christ, the Light of the world.
Monday, December 03, 2012
Colored Canvas & A Joyful Bank Account
As a homeschool family, there are a lot of kinks to work through.... regularly. I believe we figure some out, and as the children grow, new ones pop up. The short attention span of a 4 or 5 year old grows into learning how to work through the struggle of a difficult attitude when that child is older. While I know that God is working on their hearts while we teach them truth from the Word of God, and I beg Him to give us wisdom in our training along the way, we still have to wade through some things and be patient as that work is being done!
We have been struggling on and off here with different issues. I know God desires to do a TRUE work in the heart of each of my children. I know He is teaching my children what it looks like to walk in His statutes one step at a time, and in every detail of their lives. I trust Him to be doing these things!
On occasion, I feel He gives me a concrete way to help this work being done in their hearts. One thing we have done is individual paintings based on the verse, "He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus." We talked about how our lives are sort of like a canvas where God continues to make us more beautiful as we grow in sanctification.
Hobby Lobby had canvasses on sale, so I picked some up. I asked the kids to assign colors to a certain area of their lives where they see God working on in them (or needing to!) For example, yellow may represent obeying the first time. Red, being patient, etc. Then, when they recognize God working in their hearts in a certain area, they can go and add that color to their painting. It's given them a concrete way to see what areas of their lives God is working on.
Lately, I have constantly found myself repenting of my own attitude and lack of joy as I walk through my day. My own canvas had much of the same color on it -- RED, demonstrating that God was working on me living with a joyful countenance throughout my day. The Lord showed me I was reacting to and being fearful of the difficulties of parenting instead of trusting Him to walk me through them, which was zapping all my joy.
It dawned on me that our family has a bank account -- not one with money, but something so much more precious. In this account is joy, peace, fun, laughter, kindness, etc. When a child makes a poor choice, instead of letting it rob from our bank account (& me feel like a failure as a parent --> zapping my joy!) the Lord showed me that the child is responsible for the theft taking place. So, every time something is said or done that stole from our family bank account, that child (or me if I did the stealing!) is responsible to make the wrong right to that person by doing an encouraging thing specifically to the person they hurt or wronged. If a child is slow to obey, which always causes frustration, there are consequences. They need to put something back into the family bank account by doing an extra chore or something that will bless the family.
The verse we have been focusing on is Romans 14:19.
We have been struggling on and off here with different issues. I know God desires to do a TRUE work in the heart of each of my children. I know He is teaching my children what it looks like to walk in His statutes one step at a time, and in every detail of their lives. I trust Him to be doing these things!
On occasion, I feel He gives me a concrete way to help this work being done in their hearts. One thing we have done is individual paintings based on the verse, "He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus." We talked about how our lives are sort of like a canvas where God continues to make us more beautiful as we grow in sanctification.
Hobby Lobby had canvasses on sale, so I picked some up. I asked the kids to assign colors to a certain area of their lives where they see God working on in them (or needing to!) For example, yellow may represent obeying the first time. Red, being patient, etc. Then, when they recognize God working in their hearts in a certain area, they can go and add that color to their painting. It's given them a concrete way to see what areas of their lives God is working on.
Lately, I have constantly found myself repenting of my own attitude and lack of joy as I walk through my day. My own canvas had much of the same color on it -- RED, demonstrating that God was working on me living with a joyful countenance throughout my day. The Lord showed me I was reacting to and being fearful of the difficulties of parenting instead of trusting Him to walk me through them, which was zapping all my joy.
It dawned on me that our family has a bank account -- not one with money, but something so much more precious. In this account is joy, peace, fun, laughter, kindness, etc. When a child makes a poor choice, instead of letting it rob from our bank account (& me feel like a failure as a parent --> zapping my joy!) the Lord showed me that the child is responsible for the theft taking place. So, every time something is said or done that stole from our family bank account, that child (or me if I did the stealing!) is responsible to make the wrong right to that person by doing an encouraging thing specifically to the person they hurt or wronged. If a child is slow to obey, which always causes frustration, there are consequences. They need to put something back into the family bank account by doing an extra chore or something that will bless the family.
The verse we have been focusing on is Romans 14:19.
"Let us PURSUE the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another."
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
An Autumn Day
As the seasons change, life does not seem to be slowing down. I spent the day stacking heavy hay bales, preparing for winter on this gorgeous fall day. Thankful for some good physical exercise, but my body will probably be complaining tomorrow!
I read to my children as they put the roof on their life-size wigwam/fort in the pasture. I kept telling myself "Math can wait till the snow flies! Days like this are such a rare blessing." We did school as we did life today, and it was wonderful.
I watched the bond my daughter has with her horse today... I was attempting to get Dixie to move to a different location without a halter on hand with little success. She just sort of looked at me like there was no way she was going to cooperate, especially since I didn't have a halter. I called Myah outside. In her flipflops, she comes to the fence, calls Dixie over to her and points through the gate. The horse gleefully came running and obeyed her instruction without hesitation. Made me want my own horse to bond with. ;)
Two friends stopped by. One helped me finish stacking the hay, as I was close to giving up. (I later found out the bales were about 125# each -- no wonder I was struggling!) The other friend went inside and made juice for us as we finished some fencing around the hay stack. We ended the day with wonderful conversation on the front steps and a pleased husband when he got home! Goal accomplished!
I love days when I slow down enough to enjoy them. Today was one of them. Thank you, Lord for the gift of today.
Now, to get some studying done....
I read to my children as they put the roof on their life-size wigwam/fort in the pasture. I kept telling myself "Math can wait till the snow flies! Days like this are such a rare blessing." We did school as we did life today, and it was wonderful.
I watched the bond my daughter has with her horse today... I was attempting to get Dixie to move to a different location without a halter on hand with little success. She just sort of looked at me like there was no way she was going to cooperate, especially since I didn't have a halter. I called Myah outside. In her flipflops, she comes to the fence, calls Dixie over to her and points through the gate. The horse gleefully came running and obeyed her instruction without hesitation. Made me want my own horse to bond with. ;)
Two friends stopped by. One helped me finish stacking the hay, as I was close to giving up. (I later found out the bales were about 125# each -- no wonder I was struggling!) The other friend went inside and made juice for us as we finished some fencing around the hay stack. We ended the day with wonderful conversation on the front steps and a pleased husband when he got home! Goal accomplished!
I love days when I slow down enough to enjoy them. Today was one of them. Thank you, Lord for the gift of today.
Now, to get some studying done....
Thursday, September 13, 2012
WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY
We are starting the fall women's Bible study up tonight. I am praying that God changes us all to be more in His image. Two phrases that have been on my heart are "Being a disciple who goes and makes disciples" and "Walking in the peace of complete surrender".
The goals for this study are:
1) Glean and apply all we can from the book of Titus.
2) Gain some easy methods for studying Scripture independently.
3) Make the Word of God and prayer the highest priority.
4) Bring glory to God in everything we say and do.
I appreciate prayers, if God lays it on your heart! Thank you.
The goals for this study are:
1) Glean and apply all we can from the book of Titus.
2) Gain some easy methods for studying Scripture independently.
3) Make the Word of God and prayer the highest priority.
4) Bring glory to God in everything we say and do.
I appreciate prayers, if God lays it on your heart! Thank you.
Thursday, September 06, 2012
ON PRAYER
Had a texting conversation with a long-distance friend today. We were discussing prayer, and the need to really spend that time before the Lord -- one on one. So often we hear, "Well, I pray all day as I'm going about life." Yes, that's important, but it's in our prayer closests that we really LEARN to pray.
This thought came to mind.... Let's say I went on a date with Evan. We planned to have good coversation, talk about some things, but then I pull my school planning out and attempt to do that while maintaining a conversation with him. My focus would be shared and pulled in different directions. God understands my life, but He also knows I can deal with it so much better when I have that quality time with Him. He doesn't want to share me all day every day. Yes, we need to pray through our tasks, but we will lose that intimacy and closeness if we never have time alone together... we need time alone DAILY communing with the Lord!
As I told my friend, this is probably my biggest battle every day -- to find that place and time to pray alone. That alone tells me how important it is, and how hard the enemy fights to keep me from it. Even studying my Bible is easier to me than praying.... we need them both so desperately.
"When you miss your devotions one day, you notice. When you miss them 2 days, your spouse and kids notice. When you miss them 3 days, the world notices."
"The devil knows if he can keep you from the Word (& prayer), you'll simply dry up" (Wayne Cordeiro). Abiding in the Lord, is abiding in the vine. Just like a tree that dries up, the fruit will disappear, and remember dear friends, we are known by our fruit! How vital it is that we stay connected to the vine!
This thought came to mind.... Let's say I went on a date with Evan. We planned to have good coversation, talk about some things, but then I pull my school planning out and attempt to do that while maintaining a conversation with him. My focus would be shared and pulled in different directions. God understands my life, but He also knows I can deal with it so much better when I have that quality time with Him. He doesn't want to share me all day every day. Yes, we need to pray through our tasks, but we will lose that intimacy and closeness if we never have time alone together... we need time alone DAILY communing with the Lord!
As I told my friend, this is probably my biggest battle every day -- to find that place and time to pray alone. That alone tells me how important it is, and how hard the enemy fights to keep me from it. Even studying my Bible is easier to me than praying.... we need them both so desperately.
"When you miss your devotions one day, you notice. When you miss them 2 days, your spouse and kids notice. When you miss them 3 days, the world notices."
"The devil knows if he can keep you from the Word (& prayer), you'll simply dry up" (Wayne Cordeiro). Abiding in the Lord, is abiding in the vine. Just like a tree that dries up, the fruit will disappear, and remember dear friends, we are known by our fruit! How vital it is that we stay connected to the vine!
FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T GIVEN UP ON THEIR BREAD MACHINES
I have two favorite bread recipes, and this is my newest one. I like it because it is SO easy if you have a bread machine. It turns out every time!
CRUSTY BREAD
3 cups flour (I use 2 cups white/1 cup wheat)
1 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/8 c. warm water
1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. yeast
Mix on bread dough cycle in machine. Put in greased bread pan and let rise. Bake at 375* for 25-30 min. Can put pan of hot water in bottom of oven while baking. To make a nice crusty bread, bake in afternoon and pop back into oven for 5 min before meal. Serve with butter and honey!
CRUSTY BREAD
3 cups flour (I use 2 cups white/1 cup wheat)
1 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/8 c. warm water
1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. yeast
Mix on bread dough cycle in machine. Put in greased bread pan and let rise. Bake at 375* for 25-30 min. Can put pan of hot water in bottom of oven while baking. To make a nice crusty bread, bake in afternoon and pop back into oven for 5 min before meal. Serve with butter and honey!
Tuesday, September 04, 2012
REPENTANCE -- Brief Thoughts This Morning
Contemplating repentance today.... Fearing God leads to repentance, yet all throughout Scripture (been reading in Ezekiel & Revelation) there is such a lack of both. Sadly, this looks so much like our world today.
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10
"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10
Thursday, August 30, 2012
PONDERING SOME SCRIPTURE
For our daily reading, we have been in Ezekiel. This morning I was journaling on some really good stuff from chapter 10 when I asked Evan what stood out to him. I don't normally "steal" his thoughts, but the moment he mentioned this verse to me, it just popped off the page.
Ezekiel 9:4b, 6 "...put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and cry over all the abominations that are done within.. utterly slay old and young men, maidens and little children and women, but do not come near anyone on whom is the mark"
My thoughts were this.... God was telling Ezekiel to tell the men to observe which people were grieved over the abominations in Jerusalem and put a mark on their foreheads. What made these people stand out & ultimately save them from being slayed was their grief over sin -- their sadness for all that was occurring that didn't please the Lord. It was obvious to others how they felt about it. It set them apart.
How sorrowful am I over the sin and abominations that are all around me? How grieved am I over my own sin?
Lord, help me to be grieved & sorrowful over the wickedness in this world. Help me not to tolerate sin in my own life. May I have no idols before You, but seek to know You more, and serve You in greater ways every day I have breath. Amen.
"The things that consume your thoughts -- those things are the gods in your life."
Ezekiel 9:4b, 6 "...put a mark on the foreheads of the men who sigh and cry over all the abominations that are done within.. utterly slay old and young men, maidens and little children and women, but do not come near anyone on whom is the mark"
My thoughts were this.... God was telling Ezekiel to tell the men to observe which people were grieved over the abominations in Jerusalem and put a mark on their foreheads. What made these people stand out & ultimately save them from being slayed was their grief over sin -- their sadness for all that was occurring that didn't please the Lord. It was obvious to others how they felt about it. It set them apart.
How sorrowful am I over the sin and abominations that are all around me? How grieved am I over my own sin?
Lord, help me to be grieved & sorrowful over the wickedness in this world. Help me not to tolerate sin in my own life. May I have no idols before You, but seek to know You more, and serve You in greater ways every day I have breath. Amen.
"The things that consume your thoughts -- those things are the gods in your life."
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
A PERIOD OF SILENCE
I have been absent for a while. Life has been busy, but life has been sweet. Some things have just had to be put aside, and the blog was the first to go.
I am desperately trying to soak the moments in with my children, who just don't stop growing up for some reason. The other day, all 4 of them had discovered popsicles left by some special people in our outside freezer. Each one had their favorite color and was sitting on the picnic table enjoying a really hot summer day. I looked out my kitchen window and forced myself to stop what I was doing and go outside. Surrounded by tomatoes and heaps of dirty pans from canning, I opened the door and sat on the step and just stared at them, soaking in the moment.... one I didn't let slip away. There have been so many I have.
School has started back up. It's going very well considering I have officially added Aden to the schedule this year. They are learning so much. I am thankful for the opportunity I have to stay home, teach them & train them up in the Scriptures. It is a huge task, but one I know I will never ever regret doing! Our verse for the year is Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah, Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You!"
Guess that's it for now, but I do hope to write more... I'm realizing how much I have missed it.
Friday, March 02, 2012
ELLERSLIE MINISTRY
In the same week, two different people in two parts of the country introduced me to Ellerslie Ministry. This sermon is one I have listened to parts of over and over again. It was very convicting, very challenging, and really made me think about a lot in my life. I cannot recommend it enough!
Some major points that stood out to me...
* We are to stop coddling others and speak truth. Truth is what sets people free, verses a hug. Sometimes we just need to tell people to repent, and not hug them in their sin. Sometimes I need to just be told the truth, and not only given a hug.
* When things don't go my way, or I am falsely accused, I am to be "exceedingly glad".
* These things completely contrast each other.... which side am I on?
The cross is about me.
The Gospel is about me.
Jesus is about me.
The Bible is about me.
My Bible study is about me.
My prayers are about me.
My money is for me.
My time belongs to me.
My leisure time should be spent on me.
The credit for any achievement or any behavior should go to me.
After all, God desires me to esteem me!
OR SHOULD IT BE....
The cross is about JESUS.
The Gospel is about JESUS.
The Bible is about JESUS .
My Bible study is about JESUS .
My prayers are about JESUS .
My money is for JESUS .
My time belongs to JESUS .
My leisure time should be spent on JESUS .
The credit for any achievement or any behavior should go to JESUS .
After all, God desires me to esteem JESUS above all things!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
DIVIDED THE MOVIE
I have a lot to say, but will have to wait for most of it. This definitely got me thinking about things. It's not about joining bandwagons... it's about being obedient to the Word of God. And when we see that what we are doing doesn't line up with Scripture, we need to step back, re-evaluate, and make the painful changes that are necessary. It ALWAYS comes back to the Word of God, and it starts with individual families. (Be sure to pause music before hitting play.)
I have a lot to say, but will have to wait for most of it. This definitely got me thinking about things. It's not about joining bandwagons... it's about being obedient to the Word of God. And when we see that what we are doing doesn't line up with Scripture, we need to step back, re-evaluate, and make the painful changes that are necessary. It ALWAYS comes back to the Word of God, and it starts with individual families. (Be sure to pause music before hitting play.)
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
WORSHIP
Tonight in our ladies study, we are looking at God as Creator and Sustainer. We are almost done with "The One True God," a study of God's attributes by Paul Washer. Having a good understanding of who God reveals to us that He is, should have a huge impact on our lives. It will bring us into deeper reverence for God, give us purpose for why we are here, humble us, and bring us into deeper worship of Him. These two attributes, God as Creator and Sustainer, are no different.
Preparing for tonight, I did a lot of studying on worship. Tozer says, "I can safely say, on the authority of all that is revealed in the Word of God, that any man or woman on this earth who is bored and turned off by worship is not ready for heaven." He also says, "Without worship, we go about miserable."
Psalm 150:6 "Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord!"
I was thinking of some things that keep us from worshiping God the way He deserves, and what steps we can take to become better worshipers. After all, "The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever!"
Many people go to church thinking that is worship. Church alone is not worship. Worship is an attitude of the heart. As my friend Karen put it, "Worship is a lifestyle."
"When I worship, I would rather my heart be without words than my words be without heart"(Lamar Boschman). Some may use the excuse that "well, I just don't like their style of worship..." Again, worship is a matter of the heart. It's not FOR us or ABOUT us!
Boschman says, "Worship is first and foremost for HIS benefit, not ours, though it is marvelous to discover that in giving Him pleasure, we ourselves enter into what can become our riches and most wholesome experience in life."
No matter the style of worship, as long as it is not unbiblical and the words don't contradict Scripture, one can close their eyes and focus on the Lord. This gives Him glory -- even if you don't know the song! I have learned to worship with modern songs and old hymns alike. Worship is in my heart between me and the Lord. Sometimes, it's just a choice to tune out your surroundings, close your eyes and focus on Him. This can be done corporately in church, or privately, anytime of the day in my home -- to music, or not!
"There is a necessity for true worship among us. If God is who He says He is and if we are the believing people of God we claim to be, we must worship Him" (Tozer).
So, what steps can we take to be more faithful in worship to the Lord, who is worthy of all that I am, just because of who He is???
1. Surrender. Lay yourself down. Humble yourself and kill your pride. In private, be willing to get away with the Lord and tell Him how wonderful He is! Any time, raise your hands to Him, as a sign of complete surrender! Who cares what people think? Get lost in the Lord and worship Him without reserve!
2. Obey. We need to recognize that worship is a command. Praising God is something we must do, if we are believers. It doesn't have to look the same for any two people. But we are called to worship, and Scripture DOES give Biblical methods in which to function.
3. Pray. Ask God to teach you how to worship Him, and to give you a greater desire to do so! Then, open your Bible, and study worship! God will be faithful to teach you!
Some practical things?
1. Read Psalms to the Lord, especially those that exalt Him and speak of His wonders.
2. Worship all the time. At home in your closet. At church with the body. With music. Without. Ask yourself, is my heart giving God the glory He deserves? Have I told Him lately how wonderful He is?
3. When worshiping corporately, as you sing, stop and pray. Verbally speak blessings to the Lord.
Remember, we serve the same Lord and are called to express delight to the same God which brought David to dance! Creation is calling out in praise to God! Is your voice joining in? Do you regularly make a joyful noise to bring him Him delight?
Just think of all that God has done for you. He CREATED you. He sustains you and gives you EVERY SINGLE breath! That alone, makes Him worthy of praise!
John 4:23 "But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him."
"As John 4:23 says, it's time, as worshipers of God, to give Him all we have. For when he is exalted, everything about me is decreased. So many times we stand in the way of really stepping into the secret place of worship with God. Just abandon tradition and the "expected" ways of praise and worship and get lost in the holy of holies with the sole intention of blessing the Father's heart" (Jessica Leah Springer).
Psalm 148
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
Praise Him in the heights!
Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts!
Praise Him, sun and moon;
Praise Him, all you stars of light!
Praise Him, you heavens of heavens,
and you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for He commanded and they were created.
He also established them forever and ever;
He made a decree which shall not pass away.
Praise the Lord from the earth,
you great sea creatures and all the depths;
Fire and hail, snow and clouds;
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word;
Mountains and all hils;
Fruitful trees and all cedars;
Beasts and all cattle;
Creeping things and flying fowl;
Kings of the earth and all peoples;
Princes and all judges of the earth;
Both young men and maidens;
Old men and children.
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for His name alone is exalted;
His glory is above the earth and heaven.
And He has exalted the horn of His people,
The praise of all His saints --
of the children of Israel,
A people near to Him.
PRAISE THE LORD!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
PROCESSING
There have been moments lately that I feel sort of "out there", if that makes any sense. Evan has even asked me, "You sure you're okay?" more often than normal.... Guess I just seem to be processing a lot lately.
"Processing what?" you ask. Ministry. Scripture. Finances. Homeschool. Children. Just wanting everything I think with my mind, touch with my hands and speak with my mouth to be honoring to Christ and weighing those things out to that standard. I feel I miss out on so much when I try to do things on my own, and frequently fail miserably.
Tonight I re-read some of my old stuff about Josiah. He is may baby that I lost at 15 weeks gestation 5 years ago on New Years Day. I was reading about trusting the Lord, and how through that horrible time, that's all God wanted to hear from me was that I trusted Him.
Tomorrow night, our women's Bible study is all about God's faithfulness, and how even when we don't SEE... we must trust. I have been pondering Jeremiah 17:5-8 all afternoon.
Comparing the man who trusts in himself (vs 5-6) and the man who trusts in God (vs 7-8).
The man who trusts in himself:
cursed; depends on himself for strength; heart departs from the Lord; dry; misses it when the good things come; alone; thirsty
-- There is no source of water connected to this tree, so it shrivels and dies. Sort of like a plant that you take from the sunlight and put in a dark closet. The farther you take it from the light, the more it withers. Or, if you cut a leaf off from a plant, so it is no longer connected to the vine (John 15), it's going to shrivel up and die!
The man who trusts in God:
blessed; growing; fearless, even in rough times; doesn't shrivel in the heat; doesn't fear drought; does not stop producing fruit
-- The roots receive water from the SOURCE of water, so it never dries up. It is constantly being fed by that source of water as well. It can't just get one dose of water and expect to live on that. It is a continual flowing of that water to keep that tree healthy & alive.
A quote I read tonight, that I thought was so fitting...
"God has never failed me. Even in my greatest difficulties, heaviest trials, deepest poverty and need, He has never failed me. Because I was enabled by God's grace to trust Him, He has always come to my aid. I delight in speaking well of His name." George Mueller
I couldn't have said it better.
There have been moments lately that I feel sort of "out there", if that makes any sense. Evan has even asked me, "You sure you're okay?" more often than normal.... Guess I just seem to be processing a lot lately.
"Processing what?" you ask. Ministry. Scripture. Finances. Homeschool. Children. Just wanting everything I think with my mind, touch with my hands and speak with my mouth to be honoring to Christ and weighing those things out to that standard. I feel I miss out on so much when I try to do things on my own, and frequently fail miserably.
Tonight I re-read some of my old stuff about Josiah. He is may baby that I lost at 15 weeks gestation 5 years ago on New Years Day. I was reading about trusting the Lord, and how through that horrible time, that's all God wanted to hear from me was that I trusted Him.
Tomorrow night, our women's Bible study is all about God's faithfulness, and how even when we don't SEE... we must trust. I have been pondering Jeremiah 17:5-8 all afternoon.
Comparing the man who trusts in himself (vs 5-6) and the man who trusts in God (vs 7-8).
The man who trusts in himself:
cursed; depends on himself for strength; heart departs from the Lord; dry; misses it when the good things come; alone; thirsty
-- There is no source of water connected to this tree, so it shrivels and dies. Sort of like a plant that you take from the sunlight and put in a dark closet. The farther you take it from the light, the more it withers. Or, if you cut a leaf off from a plant, so it is no longer connected to the vine (John 15), it's going to shrivel up and die!
The man who trusts in God:
blessed; growing; fearless, even in rough times; doesn't shrivel in the heat; doesn't fear drought; does not stop producing fruit
-- The roots receive water from the SOURCE of water, so it never dries up. It is constantly being fed by that source of water as well. It can't just get one dose of water and expect to live on that. It is a continual flowing of that water to keep that tree healthy & alive.
A quote I read tonight, that I thought was so fitting...
"God has never failed me. Even in my greatest difficulties, heaviest trials, deepest poverty and need, He has never failed me. Because I was enabled by God's grace to trust Him, He has always come to my aid. I delight in speaking well of His name." George Mueller
I couldn't have said it better.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Updated Barn Pics!
Do to a very mild December and January, we have been able to accomplish a lot of outdoor tasks. There were a few nights up on a ladder with yucky weather (rain/sleet), and much of the siding was hung by lights after it was dark. (The days are SO short!) God was gracious, blessed us with scaffolding to use on the high parts, and kept us (mainly Evan) safe! Since this picture was taken, I have even been able to paint more trim, but the doors will have to wait until spring, as the cold weather seems to have settled in finally.
Not sure when the inside will be able to be completely finished off, but there are beds/couches to sleep at least 10 comfortably, as long as the weather isn't too extreme. We still need insulation to help maintain comfortable temperatures regularly, and to have a wood stove installed. A bathroom is on the "someday" list as well. :)
Do to a very mild December and January, we have been able to accomplish a lot of outdoor tasks. There were a few nights up on a ladder with yucky weather (rain/sleet), and much of the siding was hung by lights after it was dark. (The days are SO short!) God was gracious, blessed us with scaffolding to use on the high parts, and kept us (mainly Evan) safe! Since this picture was taken, I have even been able to paint more trim, but the doors will have to wait until spring, as the cold weather seems to have settled in finally.
Not sure when the inside will be able to be completely finished off, but there are beds/couches to sleep at least 10 comfortably, as long as the weather isn't too extreme. We still need insulation to help maintain comfortable temperatures regularly, and to have a wood stove installed. A bathroom is on the "someday" list as well. :)
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
FEEDING ON JESUS
I have been meditating on some Scriptures for several weeks now. This all started when my Bible reading plan took me through the book of John. Several Scriptures popped off the page at me the day we read chapters 5-6, but this verse in particular has stuck with me:
"He who feeds on Me will live because of Me." John 6:57
Prior to this particular day of reading, I had been pondering the words "believe" and "abide" and how so connected they are. Eternal life is found only in Christ. Along with repentance, we must "believe on Him" and we are saved, but what does that mean? Coming to Him and feeding demonstrates that we truly do believe in Him. Many people say they believe in Jesus, but have very little to do with "feeding on Him". I fear for them.
Think of it this way. To physically keep my strength up, I must eat food several times a day. The food is my nourishment and gives me physical strength to function. Our spiritual life is the same. We need to "feed on" Jesus. He is our source of strength! Feeding on Him is even more important than eating physical food! If I neglect this, I am spiritually weak. Think of John 15, abiding in the vine. If we are connected to the vine, we are getting our nourishment. If we are not, we will be cut off.
Are you spiritually feeding your soul? As John 6:68 says, "You (referring to Jesus) have the words of eternal life." If we are not filling ourselves with His words, we will not understand the truth about eternal life.
I think it was Spurgeon who once said, "We are never more alive than when we are dead at His feet."
Feeding on Him, is the only way to truly be full.
I have been meditating on some Scriptures for several weeks now. This all started when my Bible reading plan took me through the book of John. Several Scriptures popped off the page at me the day we read chapters 5-6, but this verse in particular has stuck with me:
"He who feeds on Me will live because of Me." John 6:57
Prior to this particular day of reading, I had been pondering the words "believe" and "abide" and how so connected they are. Eternal life is found only in Christ. Along with repentance, we must "believe on Him" and we are saved, but what does that mean? Coming to Him and feeding demonstrates that we truly do believe in Him. Many people say they believe in Jesus, but have very little to do with "feeding on Him". I fear for them.
Think of it this way. To physically keep my strength up, I must eat food several times a day. The food is my nourishment and gives me physical strength to function. Our spiritual life is the same. We need to "feed on" Jesus. He is our source of strength! Feeding on Him is even more important than eating physical food! If I neglect this, I am spiritually weak. Think of John 15, abiding in the vine. If we are connected to the vine, we are getting our nourishment. If we are not, we will be cut off.
Are you spiritually feeding your soul? As John 6:68 says, "You (referring to Jesus) have the words of eternal life." If we are not filling ourselves with His words, we will not understand the truth about eternal life.
I think it was Spurgeon who once said, "We are never more alive than when we are dead at His feet."
Feeding on Him, is the only way to truly be full.
Saturday, January 07, 2012
FOR YOUNG WOMEN WHO DREAM TO MARRY AND STAY HOME...
Today as I was hanging off a ladder painting, I was processing some things from a conversation I had with a friend today. (And yes, I know I haven't finished my last series of blog posts, and I've been gone a REALLY long time, so there's probably not many people reading this anymore, let alone young ladies.... but that's okay, this was on my heart....) A friend of mine mentioned that someone younger than her was struggling. As a young woman, she really didn't have any dreams of going to college, because her only REAL dream was to be happily married and have a family. She's kind of feeling stuck, and not sure what step to take next, as God hasn't yet put her husband in her path. People were encouraging her to go to college because, "you never really know WHEN you'll get married anyway..." I don't totally disagree, but...
These are my thoughts...
So, this is for any young woman out there, who desires to to be a godly wife and a stay-at-home mom, and are patiently waiting. Spend this time preparing yourself. No matter what profession a person is going into -- doctors, nurses, teachers, lawyers, etc., each one of them spends years preparing for that job. Why is it any different with being a wife and a mom?
First of all, pursue your relationship with Jesus. He needs to be EVERYTHING to you. He is your Savior, He is your source. Even after you are married, He will need to be first. Remember, your main goal in life should not be to get married, it should be to glorify God in all things. Spend as much time studying the Word and praying as you possibly can. Put this above all else in your life. Cling to Him & pursue holiness. Someday you will have toddlers running around your feet, and babies to nurse. You will be begging for time to just open your Bible, but it will be difficult because you will be exhausted! Take advantage of this season of your life. You will not regret it!
Secondly, pray. Specifically, pray for your future husband. Pray for him to hunger and thirst for righteousness, to flee temptations, to cling to Jesus. Pray for him to have wisdom and to grow in the knowledge of the Lord. Pray for him to hear from the Lord. Pray Scripture over him. Pray that you will be the wife God wants you to be. Pray for him, and start now!
Thirdly, sacrifice. It's very easy to be selfish during this stage of your life. Pursuing your desires, outward beauty, fashion trends, etc. Do not compromise with the world. If you are a child of the King, you are called to live differently. Pray about how you should dress & how you should spend your time. Pursue righteousness in all things, and don't waste so much time on things that are fleeting.
Fourth, find godly women and cling to them. For a season, I had an amazing young 20something live with us 2 nights a week. She lived life with me. She learned what life was like for a family with 4 children -- a lot of work. She helped with the children, folded dozens of baskets of laundry, mopped my floors, learned some new things in the kitchen, even learned how to butcher a pig! Through the daily grind of life, we talked about the Lord. We talked about marriage, disciplining children, whatever we read in Scripture that day, etc. Not only do I hope she walked away with some helpful hints about what she hopes to do someday, but I was so overly blessed by her! She built relationships with my children that I hope will be forever. Maybe someday my girls can be to her what she was to me!
Now, in the midst of this, if God calls you to college, then go! I have a degree in education. I'm not opposed to college, but don't just go to pass the time if God isn't calling you to that. Use your time preparing yourself to be what God is calling you to be. Be patient for HIS timing, and go bless some exhausted mom by doing her laundry. She will be grateful... and you will be preparing yourself with hands on experience for your dream!
Today as I was hanging off a ladder painting, I was processing some things from a conversation I had with a friend today. (And yes, I know I haven't finished my last series of blog posts, and I've been gone a REALLY long time, so there's probably not many people reading this anymore, let alone young ladies.... but that's okay, this was on my heart....) A friend of mine mentioned that someone younger than her was struggling. As a young woman, she really didn't have any dreams of going to college, because her only REAL dream was to be happily married and have a family. She's kind of feeling stuck, and not sure what step to take next, as God hasn't yet put her husband in her path. People were encouraging her to go to college because, "you never really know WHEN you'll get married anyway..." I don't totally disagree, but...
These are my thoughts...
So, this is for any young woman out there, who desires to to be a godly wife and a stay-at-home mom, and are patiently waiting. Spend this time preparing yourself. No matter what profession a person is going into -- doctors, nurses, teachers, lawyers, etc., each one of them spends years preparing for that job. Why is it any different with being a wife and a mom?
First of all, pursue your relationship with Jesus. He needs to be EVERYTHING to you. He is your Savior, He is your source. Even after you are married, He will need to be first. Remember, your main goal in life should not be to get married, it should be to glorify God in all things. Spend as much time studying the Word and praying as you possibly can. Put this above all else in your life. Cling to Him & pursue holiness. Someday you will have toddlers running around your feet, and babies to nurse. You will be begging for time to just open your Bible, but it will be difficult because you will be exhausted! Take advantage of this season of your life. You will not regret it!
Secondly, pray. Specifically, pray for your future husband. Pray for him to hunger and thirst for righteousness, to flee temptations, to cling to Jesus. Pray for him to have wisdom and to grow in the knowledge of the Lord. Pray for him to hear from the Lord. Pray Scripture over him. Pray that you will be the wife God wants you to be. Pray for him, and start now!
Thirdly, sacrifice. It's very easy to be selfish during this stage of your life. Pursuing your desires, outward beauty, fashion trends, etc. Do not compromise with the world. If you are a child of the King, you are called to live differently. Pray about how you should dress & how you should spend your time. Pursue righteousness in all things, and don't waste so much time on things that are fleeting.
Fourth, find godly women and cling to them. For a season, I had an amazing young 20something live with us 2 nights a week. She lived life with me. She learned what life was like for a family with 4 children -- a lot of work. She helped with the children, folded dozens of baskets of laundry, mopped my floors, learned some new things in the kitchen, even learned how to butcher a pig! Through the daily grind of life, we talked about the Lord. We talked about marriage, disciplining children, whatever we read in Scripture that day, etc. Not only do I hope she walked away with some helpful hints about what she hopes to do someday, but I was so overly blessed by her! She built relationships with my children that I hope will be forever. Maybe someday my girls can be to her what she was to me!
Now, in the midst of this, if God calls you to college, then go! I have a degree in education. I'm not opposed to college, but don't just go to pass the time if God isn't calling you to that. Use your time preparing yourself to be what God is calling you to be. Be patient for HIS timing, and go bless some exhausted mom by doing her laundry. She will be grateful... and you will be preparing yourself with hands on experience for your dream!
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