"Along about midnight, Paul and Silas were at prayer and singing a robust hymn to God. The other prisoners couldn't believe their ears. Then, without warning, a huge earthquake! The jailhouse tottered, every door flew open, all the prisoners were loose." (Acts 16:25-26--The Message).
Can you imagine the reaction of the other prisoners when the chains fell off and the prison doors opened? Some would have been shocked, others maybe ecstatic, while I am sure there were some that were puzzled as to how that happened, but Paul and Silas had a different response. They didn't move. They prayed boldly and they knew God would handle the situation. They didn't know how he would handle it, but they had confidence that God would handle their crisis. It really wasn't their place to break the chains and make a mad run for it. They had done all that was necessary by praying boldly. Now they awaited God's perfect answer and continued their work of telling other's of Christ's love.
This short story of how God works should not surprise us. It should teach us a couple of things: God is always in control and great things will happen if we continue to pray with boldness.
As we enter a New Year, let us each commit to praying boldly. Life will always hand us situations which we, with our own human minds, cannot figure a way out. That may come in forms of illness, relationship issues, employment issues, issues within our churches, or spiritual battles. Whatever it may be, know this: if we boldly pray, God will open the doors. We don't just run out, but we wait for his leading. He has never let us down, why would we think He would now? He is a faithful God, what He promises, He will deliver! Maybe, we just need some boldness when we pray and then stand amazed in His presence.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Be Patient in Times of Trouble
Meanwhile, friends, wait patiently for the Master's Arrival. You see farmers do this all the time, waiting for their valuable crops to mature, patiently letting the rain do its slow but sure work. Be patient like that. Stay steady and strong. The Master could arrive at any time. Friends, don't complain about each other. A far greater complaint could be lodged against you, you know. The Judge is standing just around the corner. Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with anything, went through everything, and never once quit, all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those who stay the course! You've heard, of course, of Job's staying power, and you know how God brought it all together for him at the end. That's because God cares, cares right down to the last detail. (James 5:7-11--Message Bible)
James is all about becoming a mature Christian. That is its central theme. This section in James is very encouraging because it addresses something that we all can relate to: suffering or troubles in our lives. James uses 3 examples of those who show a great deal of patience and perseverance in troubles. First, he uses an example of a farmer. Farmers are some of the most patient people you will know. They plant in faith that their crop will come up and they have to deal with things they have no control over, mainly the weather. Too much rain can rot the crop or too little rain will cause it to dry up. While that is out of their control, they patiently wait on the harvest. In the same manner, we wait for a spiritual harvest.
James' second example is the prophets. I never really thought about this before, but quite a few people (yes, even Christians) think that their trials and troubles are a result of something they must have done wrong. However, if you think about the prophets, they were totally in the will of God, yet were often persecuted for doing what was right. Many of the prophets had to endure great trials and sufferings, not only at the hands of unbelievers, but at the hands of professed believers. Jeremiah was arrested as a traitor and even thrown into an abandoned well to die. God fed Jeremiah and protected him throughout that terrible siege of Jerusalem, even though at times it looked as though the prophet was going to be killed. Both Ezekiel and Daniel had their share of hardships, but the Lord delivered them. And even those who were not delivered, who died for their faith, received that special reward for those who are true to Him. Why is it that those who speak in the name of the Lord often must endure difficult trials? It is so that their lives might back up their messages. The impact of a faithful, godly life carries so much power. We need to remind ourselves that our patience in times of suffering is a testimony to others around us.
A third example was that of Job. There is no better example in the Bible of someone that showed so much patience under such duress. He lost his family, health, and material blessings that he had. His friends blamed God and him and his own wife came against him. But Job endured patiently and in the end, he received more from the Lord than what he originally started with. Perhaps Job suffered so that God could reveal himself in a deeper way to Job. We don’t always understand why we go thru the things we go thru, but this we do know: God can be glorified and we can be purified thru difficult experiences. Just think, if there is nothing to endure, you cannot learn endurance.
So what is the answer? God’s grace is sufficient for us. When you find yourself in the furnace, go to the throne of grace and receive from the Lord all the grace you need to endure. Remind yourself that the Lord has a gracious purpose in all of this suffering, and that He will work out His purposes in His time and for His glory. James wanted to encourage us to be patient in times of suffering. Like the farmer, we are waiting for a spiritual harvest, for fruit that will glorify God. Like the prophets, we look for opportunities to witness, to share the truth of God. And, like Job, we wait for the Lord to fulfill His loving purpose, knowing that He will never cause His children to suffer needlessly. And like Job, we can have a deeper relationship with God.
Be patient in times of troubles.....God will work in you!
James is all about becoming a mature Christian. That is its central theme. This section in James is very encouraging because it addresses something that we all can relate to: suffering or troubles in our lives. James uses 3 examples of those who show a great deal of patience and perseverance in troubles. First, he uses an example of a farmer. Farmers are some of the most patient people you will know. They plant in faith that their crop will come up and they have to deal with things they have no control over, mainly the weather. Too much rain can rot the crop or too little rain will cause it to dry up. While that is out of their control, they patiently wait on the harvest. In the same manner, we wait for a spiritual harvest.
James' second example is the prophets. I never really thought about this before, but quite a few people (yes, even Christians) think that their trials and troubles are a result of something they must have done wrong. However, if you think about the prophets, they were totally in the will of God, yet were often persecuted for doing what was right. Many of the prophets had to endure great trials and sufferings, not only at the hands of unbelievers, but at the hands of professed believers. Jeremiah was arrested as a traitor and even thrown into an abandoned well to die. God fed Jeremiah and protected him throughout that terrible siege of Jerusalem, even though at times it looked as though the prophet was going to be killed. Both Ezekiel and Daniel had their share of hardships, but the Lord delivered them. And even those who were not delivered, who died for their faith, received that special reward for those who are true to Him. Why is it that those who speak in the name of the Lord often must endure difficult trials? It is so that their lives might back up their messages. The impact of a faithful, godly life carries so much power. We need to remind ourselves that our patience in times of suffering is a testimony to others around us.
A third example was that of Job. There is no better example in the Bible of someone that showed so much patience under such duress. He lost his family, health, and material blessings that he had. His friends blamed God and him and his own wife came against him. But Job endured patiently and in the end, he received more from the Lord than what he originally started with. Perhaps Job suffered so that God could reveal himself in a deeper way to Job. We don’t always understand why we go thru the things we go thru, but this we do know: God can be glorified and we can be purified thru difficult experiences. Just think, if there is nothing to endure, you cannot learn endurance.
So what is the answer? God’s grace is sufficient for us. When you find yourself in the furnace, go to the throne of grace and receive from the Lord all the grace you need to endure. Remind yourself that the Lord has a gracious purpose in all of this suffering, and that He will work out His purposes in His time and for His glory. James wanted to encourage us to be patient in times of suffering. Like the farmer, we are waiting for a spiritual harvest, for fruit that will glorify God. Like the prophets, we look for opportunities to witness, to share the truth of God. And, like Job, we wait for the Lord to fulfill His loving purpose, knowing that He will never cause His children to suffer needlessly. And like Job, we can have a deeper relationship with God.
Be patient in times of troubles.....God will work in you!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Faith vs Fear
I have had conversations with friends in the past about fear. I had one person tell me they were convinced that fear was one of the most powerful tools that Satan uses against us. I have heard that there are those that believe we cannot have faith and fear at the same time, that having one cancels out the other one. That makes me pause and think for a minute and I would like for you to think about it as well today.
Our faith is in God, the Father, that He will sustain us through all difficulties. Our faith is not that He will give us what we want, but that He will give us what we need. Our faith is that He has won the war even though it may seem as if we have lost a battle. Our faith is that He will work through us to accomplish His will. We need not fear.
However, we all experience fear from time to time. Sometimes it seems so close and vivid to my life. We have a tendency to try to do things without God’s help. We tend to worry over things instead of giving them to God. We tend to do things impulsively, without praying about them first. I don’t like to think about how many times I’ve decided I could take care of things myself, or how many times I ended up “fearing” the consequences of those decisions.
Interestingly enough, I looked on the Internet on a site and asked how many times "fear not" or "do not be afraid" was found in the Bible. According to the internet site that was returned, it said that these phrases were actually found 366 times. Let's see......there are 365 days in a year, except when there is leap year, then there are 366 days in a year. I wondered then, if there was any connection between "fear not" and the number of days in a year. Perhaps, what I need to take from this is that each day, I should not be afraid as I know I am in my Father's hands. Then I looked at faith and the word faith or the concept of faith is mentioned a total of 528 times. What's the message there? We are to have faith instead of fear.
The point isn’t really that we will have no fear. No matter how hard we try, Satan will make sure that we do. The point is that we recognize what fear is, where it comes from, and know that all we have to do is take it to God and lay it at His feet.
This is where the real faith comes in.
Have a "faith filled" week....
Our faith is in God, the Father, that He will sustain us through all difficulties. Our faith is not that He will give us what we want, but that He will give us what we need. Our faith is that He has won the war even though it may seem as if we have lost a battle. Our faith is that He will work through us to accomplish His will. We need not fear.
However, we all experience fear from time to time. Sometimes it seems so close and vivid to my life. We have a tendency to try to do things without God’s help. We tend to worry over things instead of giving them to God. We tend to do things impulsively, without praying about them first. I don’t like to think about how many times I’ve decided I could take care of things myself, or how many times I ended up “fearing” the consequences of those decisions.
Interestingly enough, I looked on the Internet on a site and asked how many times "fear not" or "do not be afraid" was found in the Bible. According to the internet site that was returned, it said that these phrases were actually found 366 times. Let's see......there are 365 days in a year, except when there is leap year, then there are 366 days in a year. I wondered then, if there was any connection between "fear not" and the number of days in a year. Perhaps, what I need to take from this is that each day, I should not be afraid as I know I am in my Father's hands. Then I looked at faith and the word faith or the concept of faith is mentioned a total of 528 times. What's the message there? We are to have faith instead of fear.
The point isn’t really that we will have no fear. No matter how hard we try, Satan will make sure that we do. The point is that we recognize what fear is, where it comes from, and know that all we have to do is take it to God and lay it at His feet.
This is where the real faith comes in.
Have a "faith filled" week....
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Don't give up!
As you may or may not know, I am in a very difficult season of my life. I use the word season as I know that as most seasons, it should change after a while of endurance. However, in this season of difficulty, I am reminded to stay obedient to Christ, disciplining myself and staying committed to Him. We are challenged in Scripture to fight the good fight and finish the race that has been set before us. We are challenged to do all we can do, while remaining content to do what we are called to do and leave the results in God's hands. There are several illustrations I could use to drive this point home, but one in particular may make what I am saying a little more clearer for us. Think of the winter Olympics for a moment. The snowboarders that participate, battle the elements and the fatigue that bad weather takes on their bodies is unbelievable. When the weather gets extremely bad and it makes it difficult for the snowboarders to see and navigate, one could easily give up and say "this is too difficult" or "I can't continue, I'm quitting". As the snowboarder continues, they may see some that have fallen along the way and again it would be very easy to take the easy way out.
We sometimes look up at the bottom of our own hill (current circumstances) and we've got a choice. We can climb and crawl our way up the hill with the help and grace of the Lord, who enables us - or give up and take the easier path. The devil constantly whispers "someone else will take up the prayer burdens on your heart, someone else will take over your responsibilities, it doesn't matter, you really don't make that much of a difference. There are others that have not struggled as hard as you in their circumstances so let them fight the fight.....let them run the race."
God has never given His people the option of the easy way out. I believe each of us is one of his people and we need to place our trust in His Word and we must challenge ourselves to keep our eyes on the prize, not allowing our fears and doubts to take us off of our course. And if we fall, or rather, when we fall, we will pray for that extra grace to pull ourselves up, climbing that hill that is set before us. And if we find ourselves facing yet a larger hill, we will rely on His grace to give us the momentum to soar up and over that hill, until we cross the finish line. Remember 1 Tim 6:12----fight the good fight......don't give up!
We sometimes look up at the bottom of our own hill (current circumstances) and we've got a choice. We can climb and crawl our way up the hill with the help and grace of the Lord, who enables us - or give up and take the easier path. The devil constantly whispers "someone else will take up the prayer burdens on your heart, someone else will take over your responsibilities, it doesn't matter, you really don't make that much of a difference. There are others that have not struggled as hard as you in their circumstances so let them fight the fight.....let them run the race."
God has never given His people the option of the easy way out. I believe each of us is one of his people and we need to place our trust in His Word and we must challenge ourselves to keep our eyes on the prize, not allowing our fears and doubts to take us off of our course. And if we fall, or rather, when we fall, we will pray for that extra grace to pull ourselves up, climbing that hill that is set before us. And if we find ourselves facing yet a larger hill, we will rely on His grace to give us the momentum to soar up and over that hill, until we cross the finish line. Remember 1 Tim 6:12----fight the good fight......don't give up!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Hold On Tight - But Remember, His Hold On Us Is More Secure
I spent many hours as a child playing at the local school only a few blocks away from my home. The swings, monkey bars and slide were well used by all the children in the neighborhood and on a hot summer's day, we'd head to the little wooden merry-go-round. In today's world our favorite game might be a bit tame for today's youth who are used to the fast pace of video games, Wii and organized sports.
I think my favorite was the merry-go-round and at family reunions, there was a merry go round that I would get on with my sisters and cousins. If the boys would spin the merry go round, it seemed the faster it would go, the harder it was for me to hang on. I can still remember the feeling of gravity pulling me away from the center and that feeling of losing control and possibly falling off the merry go round. But, we would still yell “faster, faster” and the strong boys, especially my cousins, would try and spin us faster. While it was fun, I was also scared, hoping I wouldn’t fall off.
Sometimes, it appears the world around us is spinning out of control and we are caught off guard with the worries of family crises, church emergencies, financial issues and relational problems. All of these can threaten to throw us off balance and cause us to fall down. At such times, the wise Christian presses himself away from the situations and heads toward the center pole. As God's children, we have the comfort and refuge in having his everlasting arms wrapped around us, holding us closer still. If we rely on our own strength, it will eventually give out. For there is no safer place than being in the arms of a loving and caring God.
The whole Christian life is a life in which the further a person progresses, the more he has to depend directly on God... The more we progress, the less we are self-sufficient. The more we mature, the more we allow God to be our refuge and strength in times of need.
My challenge to all of us, as life spins on around us and we feel like we are going to lose our balance or we feel like we will fall, remember, there is someone to hang on to that will not let us fall. He will be with us even if it seems we are spinning too fast. Rely on Him and hold on tight to Him!
I think my favorite was the merry-go-round and at family reunions, there was a merry go round that I would get on with my sisters and cousins. If the boys would spin the merry go round, it seemed the faster it would go, the harder it was for me to hang on. I can still remember the feeling of gravity pulling me away from the center and that feeling of losing control and possibly falling off the merry go round. But, we would still yell “faster, faster” and the strong boys, especially my cousins, would try and spin us faster. While it was fun, I was also scared, hoping I wouldn’t fall off.
Sometimes, it appears the world around us is spinning out of control and we are caught off guard with the worries of family crises, church emergencies, financial issues and relational problems. All of these can threaten to throw us off balance and cause us to fall down. At such times, the wise Christian presses himself away from the situations and heads toward the center pole. As God's children, we have the comfort and refuge in having his everlasting arms wrapped around us, holding us closer still. If we rely on our own strength, it will eventually give out. For there is no safer place than being in the arms of a loving and caring God.
The whole Christian life is a life in which the further a person progresses, the more he has to depend directly on God... The more we progress, the less we are self-sufficient. The more we mature, the more we allow God to be our refuge and strength in times of need.
My challenge to all of us, as life spins on around us and we feel like we are going to lose our balance or we feel like we will fall, remember, there is someone to hang on to that will not let us fall. He will be with us even if it seems we are spinning too fast. Rely on Him and hold on tight to Him!
Monday, May 3, 2010
United in Christ... Eternally One!
It’s funny how so many things in our lives revolve around the topics of unity and friendships. Not really, it’s God’s timing – which is on time, every time!
Lisa’s message, through all of the laughs and even quite a few tears made it so clear that we must, as women, break down those defenses that hold us back from being intimate friends. She shared how difficult it is sometimes to break down those walls that we think are protecting us, in order to let God’s love in, which will in turn, pour out onto others.
At North Side, we’ve been talking about how we can be “Boundary Breakers”, tearing down some of the barriers that keep us from coming to Jesus as one body – united! Our SIS group is reading, The Friendships of Women”…not a coincidence at all…it’s GOD!!
I still get chills and some tears when I think of the great love that Christ brought into so many lives during the event! He gave Lisa the words HE knew women needed to hear – He opened the minds and hearts in a way that would let them hear HIS message!!
In Colossians 3 “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds altogether in perfect unity"
That’s just like Lisa’s message…how as women it’s important to bind ourselves together in friendships. Her stories were funny, and at the same time were so true! It was so encouraging to hear a woman of Christ share that she’s struggled with friendship issues just like we all have from time to time!! Best of all, those women left the events feeling NOT ALONE, but loved, and do we dare we say it…United!!
What a blessing it has been to share this with so many women in the Wabash Valley!! Of course, we give all the glory and praises to God for this small part of an incredible journey for women, United in Christ – Eternally One!
Lisa’s message, through all of the laughs and even quite a few tears made it so clear that we must, as women, break down those defenses that hold us back from being intimate friends. She shared how difficult it is sometimes to break down those walls that we think are protecting us, in order to let God’s love in, which will in turn, pour out onto others.
At North Side, we’ve been talking about how we can be “Boundary Breakers”, tearing down some of the barriers that keep us from coming to Jesus as one body – united! Our SIS group is reading, The Friendships of Women”…not a coincidence at all…it’s GOD!!
I still get chills and some tears when I think of the great love that Christ brought into so many lives during the event! He gave Lisa the words HE knew women needed to hear – He opened the minds and hearts in a way that would let them hear HIS message!!
In Colossians 3 “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds altogether in perfect unity"
That’s just like Lisa’s message…how as women it’s important to bind ourselves together in friendships. Her stories were funny, and at the same time were so true! It was so encouraging to hear a woman of Christ share that she’s struggled with friendship issues just like we all have from time to time!! Best of all, those women left the events feeling NOT ALONE, but loved, and do we dare we say it…United!!
What a blessing it has been to share this with so many women in the Wabash Valley!! Of course, we give all the glory and praises to God for this small part of an incredible journey for women, United in Christ – Eternally One!
Monday, April 19, 2010
WVLUN 2010...
Well ladies, WVLUN 2010 is over...but is it really?? I think NOT!
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus." (Rom 15:5)
As the Praise Team sang, "Greater things are yet to be done, Greater things are still to come in this city"...my eyes welled up with tears, knowing that this is just the beginning for so many women here in the Wabash Valley. "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!" (Psalm 133:1)
Our prayers were certainly answered this past weekend! The message that Lisa shared, Friendships for GrownUps was such a powerful one, and just in time for so many women - and of course, God knew those that needed that message and brought them to share in the love, mercy and grace that He provides. The altar call spoke volumes and He was certainly touching the hearts of women in the Wabash Valley...and those of the "men in black" as well, I'm sure!!
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." (2Cor 4:7)
I challenge each of us to take the experiences we've had this past weekend and share them with the world - so that everyone knows the love that is waiting for them, if they just ask!!
It was an honor to work along side you all...I'm humbled and have been blessed beyond words! Thank you all!!
...and that's from the heart
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus." (Rom 15:5)
As the Praise Team sang, "Greater things are yet to be done, Greater things are still to come in this city"...my eyes welled up with tears, knowing that this is just the beginning for so many women here in the Wabash Valley. "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!" (Psalm 133:1)
Our prayers were certainly answered this past weekend! The message that Lisa shared, Friendships for GrownUps was such a powerful one, and just in time for so many women - and of course, God knew those that needed that message and brought them to share in the love, mercy and grace that He provides. The altar call spoke volumes and He was certainly touching the hearts of women in the Wabash Valley...and those of the "men in black" as well, I'm sure!!
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." (2Cor 4:7)
I challenge each of us to take the experiences we've had this past weekend and share them with the world - so that everyone knows the love that is waiting for them, if they just ask!!
It was an honor to work along side you all...I'm humbled and have been blessed beyond words! Thank you all!!
...and that's from the heart
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Look Up!
"I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come?” Psalm 121:1
Ladies, are you looking up, down or all around?? How we honestly answer this question truly reflects the depth of our belief that God is watching over us and is there for us, to help in the only way He can. I will be the first to admit that there are times when I struggle to look for my help from the right place.
In this fast paced world full of advertisements, self help books, of aisles full of pills or potions promising a quick fix for just about everything…where do you turn??
As women of faith, let's turn off the false help of the sometimes too powerful worldly influences that surround us and shout to the heavens “My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Without a doubt, this statement, when made by every woman around the world will be our victory song, and be accepted as praises to God!
Satan wants to keep our attention focused on the false help that he has placed all around us, filling our minds with the “promises” of the best that life has to offer. He wants to keep us from the real, authentic, and loving help that comes from trusting the Maker of heaven and earth.
Ladies, NOW is the time to look UP and know HE is with you! The next time you are in line at the grocery store or hear a commercial on TV or the radio that gives you a “promise” of youth, beauty and all things wonderful - Instead of spending that first dollar, even when they sweeten the deal – for only $9.99 – RUN and find a quiet place to talk the One who offers real help for the problems you may be facing. Pick up your Bible and read about God's perfect plan for your life, a plan to give you a hope and a future.
Real help from a real God awaits you and please, always remember “In Your presence, there is fullness of joy” Psalm 16:11
…and that’s from the heart
Ladies, are you looking up, down or all around?? How we honestly answer this question truly reflects the depth of our belief that God is watching over us and is there for us, to help in the only way He can. I will be the first to admit that there are times when I struggle to look for my help from the right place.
In this fast paced world full of advertisements, self help books, of aisles full of pills or potions promising a quick fix for just about everything…where do you turn??
As women of faith, let's turn off the false help of the sometimes too powerful worldly influences that surround us and shout to the heavens “My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Without a doubt, this statement, when made by every woman around the world will be our victory song, and be accepted as praises to God!
Satan wants to keep our attention focused on the false help that he has placed all around us, filling our minds with the “promises” of the best that life has to offer. He wants to keep us from the real, authentic, and loving help that comes from trusting the Maker of heaven and earth.
Ladies, NOW is the time to look UP and know HE is with you! The next time you are in line at the grocery store or hear a commercial on TV or the radio that gives you a “promise” of youth, beauty and all things wonderful - Instead of spending that first dollar, even when they sweeten the deal – for only $9.99 – RUN and find a quiet place to talk the One who offers real help for the problems you may be facing. Pick up your Bible and read about God's perfect plan for your life, a plan to give you a hope and a future.
Real help from a real God awaits you and please, always remember “In Your presence, there is fullness of joy” Psalm 16:11
…and that’s from the heart
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Responding God's Way
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
How we respond to people is very important. Often times we tend to have an emotional response because as women, we are full of feeling. We are passionate, sensitive and prudent. This is especially true when we feel we are right about something. Being emotional is not necessarily a bad thing. The right emotions can drive us to pursue our passions and accomplish the desires and dreams we have. However, when we allow our emotions to dictate our actions then it becomes problematic. How we interact with the people in our lives is so relevant to God that He continually addresses the issue within the Bible.
In Proverbs chapter 15 the writer starts out by instructing us to speak to people with gentleness. In the heat of the moment that is not always easy. However, God's desire for us is to be God driven, not emotion driven. When someone says or does something that crushes us, it's in that moment that the true test of virtue takes place. Do we respond with ear shattering words that wound and destroy that individual? On the other hand, do we respond with love and kindness? Our emotions would dictate to fight fire with fire. Say what you feel, do what you want. How we react is a true test of what we really stand for and believe in.
Through it all we always need to remember that God is observing us. Each moment we live, we are given a chance to react with God-like character or temporal emotions. We as women have the power to bring healing or destruction with our tongues. How awesome would it be to move beyond what we feel and say and behave according to the way God desires us to? Ladies, let us remember that women of wisdom build their houses up, but foolish women tear their houses down.
And that's from the heart...
Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
How we respond to people is very important. Often times we tend to have an emotional response because as women, we are full of feeling. We are passionate, sensitive and prudent. This is especially true when we feel we are right about something. Being emotional is not necessarily a bad thing. The right emotions can drive us to pursue our passions and accomplish the desires and dreams we have. However, when we allow our emotions to dictate our actions then it becomes problematic. How we interact with the people in our lives is so relevant to God that He continually addresses the issue within the Bible.
In Proverbs chapter 15 the writer starts out by instructing us to speak to people with gentleness. In the heat of the moment that is not always easy. However, God's desire for us is to be God driven, not emotion driven. When someone says or does something that crushes us, it's in that moment that the true test of virtue takes place. Do we respond with ear shattering words that wound and destroy that individual? On the other hand, do we respond with love and kindness? Our emotions would dictate to fight fire with fire. Say what you feel, do what you want. How we react is a true test of what we really stand for and believe in.
Through it all we always need to remember that God is observing us. Each moment we live, we are given a chance to react with God-like character or temporal emotions. We as women have the power to bring healing or destruction with our tongues. How awesome would it be to move beyond what we feel and say and behave according to the way God desires us to? Ladies, let us remember that women of wisdom build their houses up, but foolish women tear their houses down.
And that's from the heart...
Friday, March 26, 2010
Everyday Miracles
Proverbs 3: 5-6 tells us "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His Will in all you do, and He will direct your path"
Most often as humans, we see our world as a very limited time and space - but God's power is limitless, it has no boundaries. The Bible is filled with miracles where God made His power known. Miracles are easy to spot...but what about our everyday lives?? He takes the ordinary every day things and uses them in His masterpiece - which is the life we were given when we accepted Him as our Lord and Savior.
Just because we can't see God, doesn't mean He isn't there. Sometimes we don't recognize Him - especially when we let the world get in the way! God is constantly at work in us, preparing us to do what He created us to do. When we accept that God puts every circumstance in our path, it is easier to push through, knowing what we're going through is part of His master plan. We all know it's east to trust Him when things are going well, but the true test of our faith comes to the surface in the middle of a crisis! That's when we really show what's inside our hearts. What we do shows what we believe about God, and His power!
Romans 8:28 "We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love Him. They are the people He called, because that was His plan" Even disasters are intended for good. Next time you're faced with a challenge, step back and think of it this way...a "dis-appointment is really His appointment." God uses our mistakes as a test, and He doesn't waste a single one to teach us the lessons He has for us. God is in control, the same as yesterday, today and every tomorrow!
Pray with me...
Father, we want to thank You for Your presence, even when we can't tell You are here, we know You are with us. Help us see and feel Your mighty hand at work, even when it doesn't make sense or isn't what we think is best. Teach us to be women who are willing to trust everything in our lives to You. Open our minds to the lessons You have for us to learn so that we can become better servants, just as You planned from the very beginning of time.
It's in Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.
Most often as humans, we see our world as a very limited time and space - but God's power is limitless, it has no boundaries. The Bible is filled with miracles where God made His power known. Miracles are easy to spot...but what about our everyday lives?? He takes the ordinary every day things and uses them in His masterpiece - which is the life we were given when we accepted Him as our Lord and Savior.
Just because we can't see God, doesn't mean He isn't there. Sometimes we don't recognize Him - especially when we let the world get in the way! God is constantly at work in us, preparing us to do what He created us to do. When we accept that God puts every circumstance in our path, it is easier to push through, knowing what we're going through is part of His master plan. We all know it's east to trust Him when things are going well, but the true test of our faith comes to the surface in the middle of a crisis! That's when we really show what's inside our hearts. What we do shows what we believe about God, and His power!
Romans 8:28 "We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love Him. They are the people He called, because that was His plan" Even disasters are intended for good. Next time you're faced with a challenge, step back and think of it this way...a "dis-appointment is really His appointment." God uses our mistakes as a test, and He doesn't waste a single one to teach us the lessons He has for us. God is in control, the same as yesterday, today and every tomorrow!
Pray with me...
Father, we want to thank You for Your presence, even when we can't tell You are here, we know You are with us. Help us see and feel Your mighty hand at work, even when it doesn't make sense or isn't what we think is best. Teach us to be women who are willing to trust everything in our lives to You. Open our minds to the lessons You have for us to learn so that we can become better servants, just as You planned from the very beginning of time.
It's in Jesus precious name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Strengthen and Encourage
But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30: 6
When we are down and out it is not always easy to put on a happy go lucky face. Many times our circumstances are forecasting that we are going to be swallowed up by what we are going through. Our faith rises to say that we are going to come out on top. Through it all it is a continual warfare to look past what we see and trust what God said.
In 1 Samuel chapter 30 a young man named David found that while he was away from home his wives and children had been captured. In addition to that, the town he lived in had been destroyed by fire. The Bible records David as being down and deeply distressed. David's men were in distress too for their wives and children had been taken as well. David and his men cried for they were heartbroken. The men spoke of killing David because this tragedy had occurred. Despite all this, the Bible says that David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord.
So how is it possible to encourage yourself when everything seems hopeless and things have gone awry? This can only happen by completely trusting and depending in God. There comes a time where we have to learn to encourage ourselves. It is because of the faith and relationship that David had with God that he was able to encourage himself. It is imperative that we have a relationship with God, so we won't faint when adversity happens. David knew that even though things looked bad, it wasn't over. He encouraged himself by remembering all the times God rescued him.
After David encouraged himself, he prayed to God. God told David to go after the men who had stolen their families. He assured David complete victory and recovery of all their families. In order to hear clearly from God, we have to have the proper mindset. Our mindset has to be full of encouraging declarations from within; knowing that God is continually with us no matter how bad it looks. The Bible goes on to tell us that David and his men recovered everything that God said he would. Had David not encouraged himself with the proper mindset, he may have never even sought God for the answer.
Ladies, God wants us to have our hope, faith and trust in him. When we do this, we will hear clearly from God. In doing this, we will be strengthened and encouraged from within.
When we are down and out it is not always easy to put on a happy go lucky face. Many times our circumstances are forecasting that we are going to be swallowed up by what we are going through. Our faith rises to say that we are going to come out on top. Through it all it is a continual warfare to look past what we see and trust what God said.
In 1 Samuel chapter 30 a young man named David found that while he was away from home his wives and children had been captured. In addition to that, the town he lived in had been destroyed by fire. The Bible records David as being down and deeply distressed. David's men were in distress too for their wives and children had been taken as well. David and his men cried for they were heartbroken. The men spoke of killing David because this tragedy had occurred. Despite all this, the Bible says that David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord.
So how is it possible to encourage yourself when everything seems hopeless and things have gone awry? This can only happen by completely trusting and depending in God. There comes a time where we have to learn to encourage ourselves. It is because of the faith and relationship that David had with God that he was able to encourage himself. It is imperative that we have a relationship with God, so we won't faint when adversity happens. David knew that even though things looked bad, it wasn't over. He encouraged himself by remembering all the times God rescued him.
After David encouraged himself, he prayed to God. God told David to go after the men who had stolen their families. He assured David complete victory and recovery of all their families. In order to hear clearly from God, we have to have the proper mindset. Our mindset has to be full of encouraging declarations from within; knowing that God is continually with us no matter how bad it looks. The Bible goes on to tell us that David and his men recovered everything that God said he would. Had David not encouraged himself with the proper mindset, he may have never even sought God for the answer.
Ladies, God wants us to have our hope, faith and trust in him. When we do this, we will hear clearly from God. In doing this, we will be strengthened and encouraged from within.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Playing nicely with Others
God's Playground Rule #1 - Don't throw stones...
This comes from Jesus' example in John 8. He was very clear that there will be no stone throwing at other people. He reminded each person in the story that we are all in need of grace, no matter how blameless we feel, and instead of knocking people to the ground to humiliate them, we need to be looking for ways to build them up. One thing I love about this story is that Jesus rescued the woman twice. Not only does he save her from the condemnation of others and the inevitable stoning, he saves her for a life that is now a clean slate. He saves her so she can choose to make her life more in tune with God's love, and in keeping with what God had in mind for her. I like that about Jesus. As a friend of mine used to say, "God saves us from and saves us for..."So let's look for ways to pick each other up and dust each other off this week. No stone throwing. It hurts too much, and "the world" does enough of it - so let's not do it to ourselves or each other!
...and that's from the heart
This comes from Jesus' example in John 8. He was very clear that there will be no stone throwing at other people. He reminded each person in the story that we are all in need of grace, no matter how blameless we feel, and instead of knocking people to the ground to humiliate them, we need to be looking for ways to build them up. One thing I love about this story is that Jesus rescued the woman twice. Not only does he save her from the condemnation of others and the inevitable stoning, he saves her for a life that is now a clean slate. He saves her so she can choose to make her life more in tune with God's love, and in keeping with what God had in mind for her. I like that about Jesus. As a friend of mine used to say, "God saves us from and saves us for..."So let's look for ways to pick each other up and dust each other off this week. No stone throwing. It hurts too much, and "the world" does enough of it - so let's not do it to ourselves or each other!
...and that's from the heart
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Character...
God's word tells us in John, Chapter 6:63 that "The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life."
WOW, how powerful are those words. It reminds me of how little I have to do with anything in my life - really. We all like to think that we are in some kind of control, but in all reality - God is the only one who is in control of our destiny!!
HE knows our every move BEFORE we make it and HE knows our every thought BEFORE we think it! As we ponder our eternal life through Christ Jesus, consider this:
Your Thoughts become Words;
Your Words become Actions;
Your Actions become Habits;
Your Habits become Character -
And most importantly...
Your Character becomes your Eternal Destiny!!
...and that's from the heart
WOW, how powerful are those words. It reminds me of how little I have to do with anything in my life - really. We all like to think that we are in some kind of control, but in all reality - God is the only one who is in control of our destiny!!
HE knows our every move BEFORE we make it and HE knows our every thought BEFORE we think it! As we ponder our eternal life through Christ Jesus, consider this:
Your Thoughts become Words;
Your Words become Actions;
Your Actions become Habits;
Your Habits become Character -
And most importantly...
Your Character becomes your Eternal Destiny!!
...and that's from the heart
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Dressing for the day!
Proverbs 31:17 “She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for the task." and Proverbs 31:25 "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
Just where does the time go?? If your day planner looks anything like mine, I realize sometimes it is a challenge to take care of EVERYTHING that I need to take care. Luckily, SOME THINGS are written in the blocks in pencil…but for those written in ink – I’m BLESSED to have the Lord walking along beside me!! When you catch a glimpse of yourself in the your rear view mirror, as you’re rushing from place to place these days, take pride in what you see! Realize YOU were made with perfection, from the inside out.
Each day, before you take that first step, take a glimpse in God’s direction…because He is the One and ONLY that can prepare you for all of the tasks you have to accomplish, all of the meetings to attend and all the challenges that lie ahead.
Begin each day, by getting dressed in the armor of God. It is HIS protection and strength that allows you to face whatever life brings you, with a beautiful smile! After all, He created all things. NOTHING can take His joy away from you, so long as you have your priorities in the right order!!
...and that's from the heart
Just where does the time go?? If your day planner looks anything like mine, I realize sometimes it is a challenge to take care of EVERYTHING that I need to take care. Luckily, SOME THINGS are written in the blocks in pencil…but for those written in ink – I’m BLESSED to have the Lord walking along beside me!! When you catch a glimpse of yourself in the your rear view mirror, as you’re rushing from place to place these days, take pride in what you see! Realize YOU were made with perfection, from the inside out.
Each day, before you take that first step, take a glimpse in God’s direction…because He is the One and ONLY that can prepare you for all of the tasks you have to accomplish, all of the meetings to attend and all the challenges that lie ahead.
Begin each day, by getting dressed in the armor of God. It is HIS protection and strength that allows you to face whatever life brings you, with a beautiful smile! After all, He created all things. NOTHING can take His joy away from you, so long as you have your priorities in the right order!!
...and that's from the heart
Thursday, February 4, 2010
... from the heart
"Happy are the people whose God is the Lord."
Psalm 144:15 (NKJV)
Psalm 144:15 (NKJV)
Are you one of those women who people say always seems to have a smile? If not, you CAN be!! It's such a wonderful thing to have happiness despite what is going on around you. That thing called...Life! Enough said, right? It's shown us all that there are good times AND bad times. One thing we all know for sure...God is with us through it all!! HE's our shoulder to cry on, HE's our ear when we just need to talk. HE knows our every thought!! How can we have happiness despite what's going on around us? When GOD is LORD of your life, you are no longer captive to your emotions...you tknow the ones: depression, fear, anger, sadness, anxiety...ALL of which are based on a TEMPORARY situation!!
Luckily, GOD is PERMANENT. HE's the one we trust, look to for guidance and strength. HE is the one in CONTROL!! HE is also a real gentleman, never forcing Himself on anyone. HE is there waiting for you to ask for His help...so go ahead, you know you want to...just ask Him.
The Bible says that God will fill us with joy and that in His presence is fullness of joy. If you're not happy, I encourage you to give some thought to letting go of those things, let GOD wipe them away from your heart, mind and soul.
If things still seem to make you weary, maybe, just maybe you've jumped into the drivers seat...if that's the case, move over...that's GOD's seat in your life!!! "Jesus, take the wheel..." He has true happiness just waiting for you - so go ahead, move over and let HIM drive - just sit back and enjoy the ride!
...and that's From the Heart
Luckily, GOD is PERMANENT. HE's the one we trust, look to for guidance and strength. HE is the one in CONTROL!! HE is also a real gentleman, never forcing Himself on anyone. HE is there waiting for you to ask for His help...so go ahead, you know you want to...just ask Him.
The Bible says that God will fill us with joy and that in His presence is fullness of joy. If you're not happy, I encourage you to give some thought to letting go of those things, let GOD wipe them away from your heart, mind and soul.
If things still seem to make you weary, maybe, just maybe you've jumped into the drivers seat...if that's the case, move over...that's GOD's seat in your life!!! "Jesus, take the wheel..." He has true happiness just waiting for you - so go ahead, move over and let HIM drive - just sit back and enjoy the ride!
...and that's From the Heart
Friday, January 15, 2010
A Thought for Today
1Thessalonians 1:3
"We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ"
WOW - when I read this I thought it sure fits the planning meetings sentiments! So long as we continue to place our FAITH on HIM, funds will come in times when they're needed the most. So long as we continue to work for HIS GLORY - the results will be amazing!! So long as we pray to HIM for all of our praises, blessings and needs - HE will be glorified and honored, and will bless our triumphs and our struggles. Take inspiration from HIS WORD. Use His word to lift up friends, family and yes, even strangers that you meet. You never know when the light that shines from HIM through us may help someone on their own path - giving them the vision they need!! Open your hearts to accept the spirit that God holds for you - and use it in all you do!!!
God Bless each and everyone of you - and all those you meet!!!
"We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ"
WOW - when I read this I thought it sure fits the planning meetings sentiments! So long as we continue to place our FAITH on HIM, funds will come in times when they're needed the most. So long as we continue to work for HIS GLORY - the results will be amazing!! So long as we pray to HIM for all of our praises, blessings and needs - HE will be glorified and honored, and will bless our triumphs and our struggles. Take inspiration from HIS WORD. Use His word to lift up friends, family and yes, even strangers that you meet. You never know when the light that shines from HIM through us may help someone on their own path - giving them the vision they need!! Open your hearts to accept the spirit that God holds for you - and use it in all you do!!!
God Bless each and everyone of you - and all those you meet!!!
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