Hey peoples!
Soli Deo Gloria is moving to Homeschool Blogger. I love Blogger, but our computer has security issues with the website, or something. Anyways, here's the new address:
www.homeschoolblogger.com/solideogloria
But, I will keep this blog up so that you can reread my old posts if you like.
Thanks!!! See you on HomeschoolBlogger!!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Church Camp!
Well, first off I apologize for not posting sooner. Blogger hasn't let me get on my account, and the week before this I went to church camp.
Every year our youth group goes to a camp in the middle of nowhere (for my views on youth groups and church camps, contact me). But, hey! You can get closer to God in the middle of nowhere too!
But, last week was very cool. The Justin Cofield Band led worship for all of the services, and Brandon Barnard was the speaker. Both had great focus on God, and brought what he wanted them to. I know they both spoke to my heart through the messages and worship.
I could go on for days about church camp. But, I'll just give little snippets of what God gave me, and what, no doubt I will be posting on in the near future.
~Our God is a consuming fire. Fire for Him in our lives may consume things that are there now.
~God doesn't want us to surrender our stuff. He wants us to surrender ourselves.
~Live for eternity. Life is way too short to focus on.
~Store up treasures in heaven. You will be blessed when you can cast them at Jesus's feet when you get there.
~Many people think they've found something better than Jesus. Impossible!
~May you be covered in the dust of your Rabbi. Let the rabbi be Jesus.
~You have to pursue God. He will pursue you, but you have to pursue him too.
~It's not reckless abandon to God. It's actually very calculated.
~Sin is sin. It's all even in God's sight.
~Many times we apologize for what we do, not for who we are.
~Where sin is concerned, people just mumble now. (this is talking about specifically confessing your sin)
~To confess means to own up to the fact that our behavior wasn't just the result of bad parenting, bad genes, and chemical inbalances caused by twinkies. But, somewhere you made a bad choice in the mix. -Sorry, I didn't catch his name
~Take responsibility for everything you do. Every bad decision, every time you mess up. You live in a generation of irresponsible people. Be responsible!
~You don't just offend people with sin, you offend God!
~True confession brings change in your life.
~You don't follow your own rules with Jesus.
~It doesn't mean thinking less of yourself. It means thinking of yourself less.
~Don't be training to be good. Train to be godly.
~Aim at nothing and you'll hit it everytime.
~Training:Here's what you do:
1. Eat right- Learn to have a steady diet of scripture. Consume the spirit. It isn't enough to read God's word. Let God's word read you.
2. Excercise- Excercise your faith. You have to get in shape. We have some overstuffed Christians. Change, then practice. Learn, try it out and practice.
~God will never give up on you.
~God is a consuming fire. He is all that remains.
~The Israelites had to cover the doorway in blood to be saved. We have to go through Jesus's blood to be saved.
~You have to be willing to die to follow Jesus.
To be continued...
(note: I have MANY more pages of notes to condense and type in. This is just a very small portion. But, please ponder these thoughts, and ask any questions you might have.)
Every year our youth group goes to a camp in the middle of nowhere (for my views on youth groups and church camps, contact me). But, hey! You can get closer to God in the middle of nowhere too!
But, last week was very cool. The Justin Cofield Band led worship for all of the services, and Brandon Barnard was the speaker. Both had great focus on God, and brought what he wanted them to. I know they both spoke to my heart through the messages and worship.
I could go on for days about church camp. But, I'll just give little snippets of what God gave me, and what, no doubt I will be posting on in the near future.
~Our God is a consuming fire. Fire for Him in our lives may consume things that are there now.
~God doesn't want us to surrender our stuff. He wants us to surrender ourselves.
~Live for eternity. Life is way too short to focus on.
~Store up treasures in heaven. You will be blessed when you can cast them at Jesus's feet when you get there.
~Many people think they've found something better than Jesus. Impossible!
~May you be covered in the dust of your Rabbi. Let the rabbi be Jesus.
~You have to pursue God. He will pursue you, but you have to pursue him too.
~It's not reckless abandon to God. It's actually very calculated.
~Sin is sin. It's all even in God's sight.
~Many times we apologize for what we do, not for who we are.
~Where sin is concerned, people just mumble now. (this is talking about specifically confessing your sin)
~To confess means to own up to the fact that our behavior wasn't just the result of bad parenting, bad genes, and chemical inbalances caused by twinkies. But, somewhere you made a bad choice in the mix. -Sorry, I didn't catch his name
~Take responsibility for everything you do. Every bad decision, every time you mess up. You live in a generation of irresponsible people. Be responsible!
~You don't just offend people with sin, you offend God!
~True confession brings change in your life.
~You don't follow your own rules with Jesus.
~It doesn't mean thinking less of yourself. It means thinking of yourself less.
~Don't be training to be good. Train to be godly.
~Aim at nothing and you'll hit it everytime.
~Training:Here's what you do:
1. Eat right- Learn to have a steady diet of scripture. Consume the spirit. It isn't enough to read God's word. Let God's word read you.
2. Excercise- Excercise your faith. You have to get in shape. We have some overstuffed Christians. Change, then practice. Learn, try it out and practice.
~God will never give up on you.
~God is a consuming fire. He is all that remains.
~The Israelites had to cover the doorway in blood to be saved. We have to go through Jesus's blood to be saved.
~You have to be willing to die to follow Jesus.
To be continued...
(note: I have MANY more pages of notes to condense and type in. This is just a very small portion. But, please ponder these thoughts, and ask any questions you might have.)
Monday, May 28, 2007
Here I Am....
God has been doing a work in our youth group lately, and I am glad to see the spiritual leaps we have taken lately. We are experiencing the best worship and teaching I have ever been a part of. A great deal of that is our youth group's leaders. They're awesome! But, above all, all glory goes to God. But, part of the reason is that our youth group is ready: we're about where we need to be in our walks with Christ. Part of the reason for that is we're here, and we're ready to be used by God.
The reason I said that is not to brag on our youth group, or our leaders, but to tell what can happen when you get out of the way, and let God use you. We have seen over 30 people saved since last August. PTL! But, the reason we have seen such wonderful results is that we told God we were here and we were ready to be used. We simply had to get out of the way so that he could work through us. What could happen in your life if you got out of the way?
**Note**: Discussion Questions:
I have decided not to post formal questions this time. Instead, I just going to ask that you share verses pertaining to this subject, and your thoughts about them. As always, I will moderate the discussion.
Soli Deo Gloria!
The reason I said that is not to brag on our youth group, or our leaders, but to tell what can happen when you get out of the way, and let God use you. We have seen over 30 people saved since last August. PTL! But, the reason we have seen such wonderful results is that we told God we were here and we were ready to be used. We simply had to get out of the way so that he could work through us. What could happen in your life if you got out of the way?
**Note**: Discussion Questions:
I have decided not to post formal questions this time. Instead, I just going to ask that you share verses pertaining to this subject, and your thoughts about them. As always, I will moderate the discussion.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Friday, May 18, 2007
Being the Salt of the Earth
Matthew 5:13 says, "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet."
What is Jesus saying here? Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth. Why salt? Well, salt makes things taste better, it brings out the flavor in things.
So, if you think about it, God is telling us that we liven up the earth.
But, consider the next part of the verse: "...But if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?" Well, I don't believe that this is saying that we lose our salvation, I believe that once you are saved, nothing can take you out of God's hands. But, I do believe that you can lose your potency as a Christian. You might be living with sin in your life. You might not be talking to God, reading the word, or going to church. Those things can cause you not to be such an effective Christian. Hence, you lose some of your "saltiness." But I believe that God can restore your effectiveness, if you ask him. But, you do need to get rid of that sin, get in the Word, pray, and go to church. Sometimes it might not be the most thrilling thing in the world, but you should still do it.
So, today, be salty. Try to become even more salty. Ask God to help you.
Discussion Questions:
1.) Do you believe that what I said was true? If not, explain why.
2.) There are many verses where God compares us to things other than salt. Can you find any? Also, include any comments you have about the verses.
Please remember to be gracious. This is a discussion, not an argument. Please remember to honor God with the words that you say. Soli Deo Gloria!
What is Jesus saying here? Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth. Why salt? Well, salt makes things taste better, it brings out the flavor in things.
So, if you think about it, God is telling us that we liven up the earth.
But, consider the next part of the verse: "...But if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?" Well, I don't believe that this is saying that we lose our salvation, I believe that once you are saved, nothing can take you out of God's hands. But, I do believe that you can lose your potency as a Christian. You might be living with sin in your life. You might not be talking to God, reading the word, or going to church. Those things can cause you not to be such an effective Christian. Hence, you lose some of your "saltiness." But I believe that God can restore your effectiveness, if you ask him. But, you do need to get rid of that sin, get in the Word, pray, and go to church. Sometimes it might not be the most thrilling thing in the world, but you should still do it.
So, today, be salty. Try to become even more salty. Ask God to help you.
Discussion Questions:
1.) Do you believe that what I said was true? If not, explain why.
2.) There are many verses where God compares us to things other than salt. Can you find any? Also, include any comments you have about the verses.
Please remember to be gracious. This is a discussion, not an argument. Please remember to honor God with the words that you say. Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Note: Comments
I've been reading many other blogs lately, and I've decided to change the way we do comments around here. Instead of just telling me what a great post it was (Although I do appreciate comments like that) we are going to discuss the post and different things about it. To encourage all of you to do this, I will put several discussion questions at the end of each post. I think that this will make the comment section a lot more interesting, and we can all gain something from it. I don't mind comments telling me good job, or something, but please also participate in the discussion. Also, if you haven't commented before, please do! I would love to know who all really reads my blog, and to have you participate.
Another thing that I would like to address is this: please do not reveal any information about me that I do not reveal myself. As for my name, you can call me God's Grace, Grace, Sarah, or just the Author. I don't really care personally.
I hope that you all will enjoy what we will do in the future! Soli Deo Gloria!
As a side note, here are the discussion questions for my last post, Whatever You Do:
1.) How can we honor God? Please give examples.
2.) Can you think or find anymore scriptures pertaining to this post? Please post them, and give comments.
3.) Do you think that this will be a living witness to your lost friends? Please explain why or why not.
Please remember to be gracious, and not debate. This is a discussion, not an argument. Please remember to honor God with the words that you say. Enjoy!
Another thing that I would like to address is this: please do not reveal any information about me that I do not reveal myself. As for my name, you can call me God's Grace, Grace, Sarah, or just the Author. I don't really care personally.
I hope that you all will enjoy what we will do in the future! Soli Deo Gloria!
As a side note, here are the discussion questions for my last post, Whatever You Do:
1.) How can we honor God? Please give examples.
2.) Can you think or find anymore scriptures pertaining to this post? Please post them, and give comments.
3.) Do you think that this will be a living witness to your lost friends? Please explain why or why not.
Please remember to be gracious, and not debate. This is a discussion, not an argument. Please remember to honor God with the words that you say. Enjoy!
Whatever You Do....
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will recieve an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24)
Whatever. Whatever you do. Whether that means unloading the dishwasher, cleaning your room, or cooking dinner, this verse tells us we should do it as unto God.
What does that mean? Well, it means that our approach toward doing any work at all should be that we are doing it to Christ, for Christ. Would you clean God's room better than you do yours? With a better attitude? Maybe, faster, and more in depth? If the answer is yes, you need to change your heart toward work. Don't think, "Okay, how can I get away with less work?" And, don't pretend that you don't think that way. Everyone does at some point or another. Instead, think, "How can I do this to honor God? How can I serve him by doing this?"
The HCSB version puts it like this:
Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord—you serve the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)
This version sheds a little more light on this subject. It says to do it "enthusiastically."
Dictionary.com provides this definition: full of or characterized by enthusiasm; ardent: He seems very enthusiastic about his role in the play.
Synonyms listed are: eager, fervent, zealous, passionate, vehement, fervid, impassioned
So we need to be cheerful, eager, even passionate about working for God. That doesn't fit with the classic teengage look that is disinterested, surly, and rebellious. Our lost friends will judge Christianty by you, whether you want them to, or not. So, have a good attitude and cheerful heart about work. Do it for the Lord!
Whatever. Whatever you do. Whether that means unloading the dishwasher, cleaning your room, or cooking dinner, this verse tells us we should do it as unto God.
What does that mean? Well, it means that our approach toward doing any work at all should be that we are doing it to Christ, for Christ. Would you clean God's room better than you do yours? With a better attitude? Maybe, faster, and more in depth? If the answer is yes, you need to change your heart toward work. Don't think, "Okay, how can I get away with less work?" And, don't pretend that you don't think that way. Everyone does at some point or another. Instead, think, "How can I do this to honor God? How can I serve him by doing this?"
The HCSB version puts it like this:
Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord—you serve the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)
This version sheds a little more light on this subject. It says to do it "enthusiastically."
Dictionary.com provides this definition: full of or characterized by enthusiasm; ardent: He seems very enthusiastic about his role in the play.
Synonyms listed are: eager, fervent, zealous, passionate, vehement, fervid, impassioned
So we need to be cheerful, eager, even passionate about working for God. That doesn't fit with the classic teengage look that is disinterested, surly, and rebellious. Our lost friends will judge Christianty by you, whether you want them to, or not. So, have a good attitude and cheerful heart about work. Do it for the Lord!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Beauty Tips (No, I'm Not Kidding!)
Beauty Tips
By Audrey Hepburn
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figures, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.
As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
By Audrey Hepburn
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figures, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.
As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Girls of God
Okay, well, I'm starting another blog!!! I'm not abandoning this one though, I hope to be on here more than ever! But, I really felt God called me to this. You can read the story of how I came about starting it at the blog. The address is: https://girlsofgodthewebsite.blogspot.com. I hope you'll come over and see me!
And, I'm not doing this blog alone!!! I asked Meggy T (https://mt-thoughts.blogspot.com) to help me on this blog, and I think it will be great! Meggy is a God-driven teenager (slightly older than me) who has a great heart for God, and a desire to do his will. So, go on over and check out the blog!!!!
And, I'm not doing this blog alone!!! I asked Meggy T (https://mt-thoughts.blogspot.com) to help me on this blog, and I think it will be great! Meggy is a God-driven teenager (slightly older than me) who has a great heart for God, and a desire to do his will. So, go on over and check out the blog!!!!
PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!
In youth service tonight, we had two pray to recieve Christ!!!! They were both highschooled young ladies. Please pray for them, that they would stay strong in their faith, and for it not to be an emotional decision, but a heart decision. And, thank God for choosing to bless us this way!!!! Ptl!!!!!
Is He REALLY Enough?
If you listen to Christian music, you know who Chris Tomlin is. For those who don't, he wrote How Great is Our God, Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone), Enough, Indescribable, Holy is the Lord...And tons more. But, tonight in worship, we sang Enough. The gist of the song is that God is enough for you. But, during the song, I was thinking, "Is he REALLY enough? Could I live without everything but God? Is he truly all I ever want?" Well, sadly, I can't say that he is all I want in this life. I have my desires, that probably aren't God's. But, sadly enough, people don't think God is enough for them. They look for satisfaction in fame, money, love, recognition, work, food, and many other things. But, these things are all temporary. They don't last. In fact, the only thing that does last is God. God is the only thing that has always been and will always be. He doesn't have a beginning and he doesn't have an end. That, in and of itself, is hard to wrap my mind around. I can't imagine anything that didn't ever begin or end. Everything I've ever known on this earth has a beginning, or has ended. Except God. The same God who will always be is telling you that he wants to be all you want. He wants to be everything you need. He wants you to know that whether you realize it or not, you are completely dependent on him. He is enough. Let's look at a few examples in scripture, to see how God truly provided everything for people.
Abraham: God sent him away from his homeland, yet he never suffered materially. In fact, he depended on God and he didn't let him down.
David: He knew he would be King someday, but he didn't want to push it. He knew that God would put him there in the right time.
Jeremiah: Even though he was thrown in a cistern, he knew God would use him in some way.
Mary: She was just a young teenager, but she knew she could depend on God during her unexpected pregnancy.
Jesus: He never went without prayer, because he knew it was vital. He trusted God.
Paul: Although shipwrecked three times, snakebitten, and thrown in prison numerous times, he knew God wasn't through with him yet.
I could go on and on, but those are just a few. But, my point is this. God was enough for them, in their lives. He is enough for you. You just have to wholly trust on him, and believe.
Abraham: God sent him away from his homeland, yet he never suffered materially. In fact, he depended on God and he didn't let him down.
David: He knew he would be King someday, but he didn't want to push it. He knew that God would put him there in the right time.
Jeremiah: Even though he was thrown in a cistern, he knew God would use him in some way.
Mary: She was just a young teenager, but she knew she could depend on God during her unexpected pregnancy.
Jesus: He never went without prayer, because he knew it was vital. He trusted God.
Paul: Although shipwrecked three times, snakebitten, and thrown in prison numerous times, he knew God wasn't through with him yet.
I could go on and on, but those are just a few. But, my point is this. God was enough for them, in their lives. He is enough for you. You just have to wholly trust on him, and believe.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Note:Posts
Well, as you may have noticed, I haven't been blogging much lately. And, my blog was messed up for a couple of days. Well, I think I fixed the blog and then changed some stuff. But, the reason I haven't been posting is this, my life is very hectic, and also, Blogger has been messing up on our computer. I don't know when I'll be able to post, but when I'm able, I'll try to. Thanks for your patience as I try to fix this!!! :)
God Gave Her the Gift of...Encouragement
I have a lot of really good friends. But, I have a few who are really special. One of them has the special gift of encouragement. She seems to know just when I'm down, and sends something encouraging, whether it be a good job, or a long email about how glad she is we're friends. I truly appreciate what she does.
Barnabas, in the Bible, means "Son of Encouragement." And he truly was an encourager. The gift of encouragement is given to all, yet few use it.
Everyone loves to be told something nice. Even the meanest person you can think of has some good quality. So many times we're down in the dumps and all we need to lift us out is a kind word. Think of how you would feel. Think of what you would want someone to say to you.
Be an encourager. Use the wonderful gift God gave you and tell someone today how wonderful they are to you.
Barnabas, in the Bible, means "Son of Encouragement." And he truly was an encourager. The gift of encouragement is given to all, yet few use it.
Everyone loves to be told something nice. Even the meanest person you can think of has some good quality. So many times we're down in the dumps and all we need to lift us out is a kind word. Think of how you would feel. Think of what you would want someone to say to you.
Be an encourager. Use the wonderful gift God gave you and tell someone today how wonderful they are to you.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
But, I Just Can't See Him Working Here
In the movie Facing the Giants, (which I highly recommend) Coach Taylor says to Mr. Bridges. "But, I just can't see him working here...." Mr. Bridges replied, "Coach Taylor, I heard a story once about two farmers. There was a drought. Both prayed and asked God for rain, but only one prepared his fields. Which one are you?" (or, something to that effect)
So many times in my life I can't see what's going to happen next. You tell God, I'll trust you forever, and it's similar to jumping of a cliff and not knowing how high it was. Then, you suddenly find, that God is holding you in his hand, and promises to never let you go. God has a plan for your life, but a lot of the time it is just so hard to see. The phrase "You can't see the forest for the trees." is actually more profound than you think at first glance. Just wrap your mind around that for just a minute. Sometimes we're in God's plan so that we can't even see us.
Honestly, the Isrealites make me laugh when I read about them. I'm just saying that from our point of view they look, well, unintelligent. We can't see it as they truly saw it, or we might make the same choices. But, the Israelites knew God had a plan for them. Why else would he bring them out of Egypt? But, time and time againt they chose to rebel against God. If we truly want what God wants, we will try to stay in the word, and close to him, and know that he will bring it all about in his timing.
So many times in my life I can't see what's going to happen next. You tell God, I'll trust you forever, and it's similar to jumping of a cliff and not knowing how high it was. Then, you suddenly find, that God is holding you in his hand, and promises to never let you go. God has a plan for your life, but a lot of the time it is just so hard to see. The phrase "You can't see the forest for the trees." is actually more profound than you think at first glance. Just wrap your mind around that for just a minute. Sometimes we're in God's plan so that we can't even see us.
Honestly, the Isrealites make me laugh when I read about them. I'm just saying that from our point of view they look, well, unintelligent. We can't see it as they truly saw it, or we might make the same choices. But, the Israelites knew God had a plan for them. Why else would he bring them out of Egypt? But, time and time againt they chose to rebel against God. If we truly want what God wants, we will try to stay in the word, and close to him, and know that he will bring it all about in his timing.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
God, I Will Go Wherever You Want....Except There!
So many times we tell God we'll follow him forever, and wherever he wants us to...Except for that one place. Think of the worst place on Earth and then imagine God telling you to go there! Wow! How many would actually go?
On the way to the Promised Land the Israelites sent out spies into the land of Canaan. Eight of the spies came back with the report that the people were giants, and there was no way they could conquer it. Only two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, brought back a good report about the land. They acknowledged that the people were big, but they knew with God on their side they could win. The people went with the eight spies report and decided not to go into the Promised Land. They later repented, but it was too late. They had to wander in the desert for forty more years.
Looking back on it, the Israelites don't look too bright. There was a wonderful land waiting for them, and they didn't take it because they were scared. How many times have we missed out on what God truly wanted for our lives, because we were scared? How many times has something wonderful been prevented because we didn't think that it was the best thing for us?
We have to have faith and step out and do what God wants us to do. But, we have to make sure that it is truly God speaking to us. I'm not saying go jump off a cliff because you think that God wants you to. Pray, seek scripture, and then step out in faith.
On the way to the Promised Land the Israelites sent out spies into the land of Canaan. Eight of the spies came back with the report that the people were giants, and there was no way they could conquer it. Only two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, brought back a good report about the land. They acknowledged that the people were big, but they knew with God on their side they could win. The people went with the eight spies report and decided not to go into the Promised Land. They later repented, but it was too late. They had to wander in the desert for forty more years.
Looking back on it, the Israelites don't look too bright. There was a wonderful land waiting for them, and they didn't take it because they were scared. How many times have we missed out on what God truly wanted for our lives, because we were scared? How many times has something wonderful been prevented because we didn't think that it was the best thing for us?
We have to have faith and step out and do what God wants us to do. But, we have to make sure that it is truly God speaking to us. I'm not saying go jump off a cliff because you think that God wants you to. Pray, seek scripture, and then step out in faith.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
In His Steps By Charles Sheldon
I recently read In His Steps by Charles Sheldon, and really enjoyed it. This book is (as the publisher says) a novel, but not to be read as such. It is to be read with prayer, and thought.
This is a powerful story of Raymond, a small town in America, where many people decide to do exactly what they think (can interpret from scriptures and wise teaching) Jesus would do in their shoes for a year. You follow all of the characters as some fall, some continue, and the town changes- and with the town, follow the impact as it spreads. I highly recommend this book to any person at any age (though some very young readers may have trouble understanding and reading the whole book).
But, many thoughts crossed my head while I read this book, and thought about what it meant for my life. What would Jesus do if he were here, in this situation? It is a question I think every person needs to ask themselves. So many times, we are simply following our own inclinations, and God cannot use us as he would wish. We need to simply let go of the control panel, and let God take us where he will. But, asking yourself W.W.J.D.? (What Would Jesus Do?) will change your entire life, your aspect on things, and the way you handle certain situations and people. As simple a question as it is, it can change your life. So, today, ask yourself: What Would Jesus Do?
This is a powerful story of Raymond, a small town in America, where many people decide to do exactly what they think (can interpret from scriptures and wise teaching) Jesus would do in their shoes for a year. You follow all of the characters as some fall, some continue, and the town changes- and with the town, follow the impact as it spreads. I highly recommend this book to any person at any age (though some very young readers may have trouble understanding and reading the whole book).
But, many thoughts crossed my head while I read this book, and thought about what it meant for my life. What would Jesus do if he were here, in this situation? It is a question I think every person needs to ask themselves. So many times, we are simply following our own inclinations, and God cannot use us as he would wish. We need to simply let go of the control panel, and let God take us where he will. But, asking yourself W.W.J.D.? (What Would Jesus Do?) will change your entire life, your aspect on things, and the way you handle certain situations and people. As simple a question as it is, it can change your life. So, today, ask yourself: What Would Jesus Do?
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Refreshment By Elisabeth Elliot
He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed(Prv 11:25).
"If you...satisfy the needs of thewretched...the Lord will satisfy your needs" (Is58:10,11 NEB).
Do you often feel like parched ground, unable to produce anything worthwhile? I do. When I am in need of refreshment, it isn't easy to think of the needs of others. But I have found that if,instead of praying for my own comfort and satisfaction, I ask the Lord to enable me to give to others, an amazing thing often happens--I find my own needs wonderfully met. Refreshment comes in ways I would never have thought of, both for others, and then, incidentally, for myself.
Lord,
be as the dew to me today, as You were to Israel, that I may "flower like the lily"(Hos14:5 NEB).
*This is from Elisabeth Elliot's book: A Light For My Feet
"If you...satisfy the needs of thewretched...the Lord will satisfy your needs" (Is58:10,11 NEB).
Do you often feel like parched ground, unable to produce anything worthwhile? I do. When I am in need of refreshment, it isn't easy to think of the needs of others. But I have found that if,instead of praying for my own comfort and satisfaction, I ask the Lord to enable me to give to others, an amazing thing often happens--I find my own needs wonderfully met. Refreshment comes in ways I would never have thought of, both for others, and then, incidentally, for myself.
Lord,
be as the dew to me today, as You were to Israel, that I may "flower like the lily"(Hos14:5 NEB).
*This is from Elisabeth Elliot's book: A Light For My Feet
P.U.S.H.
I actually got this off of Kaitlin's blog (http://missionamare.blogspot.com). But, it is well worth reproducing here. This is a great reminder. Read on!
A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light and the Savior appeared. The Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might.
This the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing it with all his might. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore, and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain.
Since the man was showing signs of discouragement, the adversary decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the man's weary mind: "You have been pushing against this rock for a long time, and it hasn't budged. Why kill yourself over this? You are never going to move it." Thus giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure.
These troubled thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. "Why kill myself over this? I'll just put in my time, giving just the minimum effort and that wil be good enough." And that is what he planned to do until one day he decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his thoughts to the Lord.
"Lord" he said, "I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do which you have asked. Yet after all this time, I have not even been able to budge that rock. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"
The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to my with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back sinewy and brown, your hands are calloused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition you have grown much and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in my wisdom. This you have done. I, my friend, will now move the rock."
At times when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what he wants, when actually what God wants is simple obedience and faith in him...By all means exercise the faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God who moves mountains.
****************************************************************
P.U.S.H (Pray Until Something Happens)
When everything seems to go wrong,...just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down,...just P.U.S.H.
When people don't react the way you think they should,...just P.U.S.H.
When money is short and bills are due,...just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you,...just P.U.S.H.
When the pressure of school is too much,...just P.U.S.H
A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light and the Savior appeared. The Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might.
This the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing it with all his might. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore, and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain.
Since the man was showing signs of discouragement, the adversary decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the man's weary mind: "You have been pushing against this rock for a long time, and it hasn't budged. Why kill yourself over this? You are never going to move it." Thus giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure.
These troubled thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. "Why kill myself over this? I'll just put in my time, giving just the minimum effort and that wil be good enough." And that is what he planned to do until one day he decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his thoughts to the Lord.
"Lord" he said, "I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do which you have asked. Yet after all this time, I have not even been able to budge that rock. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"
The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to my with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back sinewy and brown, your hands are calloused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition you have grown much and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in my wisdom. This you have done. I, my friend, will now move the rock."
At times when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what he wants, when actually what God wants is simple obedience and faith in him...By all means exercise the faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God who moves mountains.
****************************************************************
P.U.S.H (Pray Until Something Happens)
When everything seems to go wrong,...just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down,...just P.U.S.H.
When people don't react the way you think they should,...just P.U.S.H.
When money is short and bills are due,...just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you,...just P.U.S.H.
When the pressure of school is too much,...just P.U.S.H
Monday, April 09, 2007
Sing 'Em...Mean 'Em
I love to sing -though I'm not good at it- but, lately, I've noticed some things. On Sunday mornings I sing in the choir, and I look down at all the people from the choir loft. The expressions are funny- some blank, some asleep, but there are a few who seem to be worshipping and awake. But, most don't seem to mean what they sing. Do you?
It wasn't until lately that I actually started noticing the words, and what they meant. I mean, I sing along with the radio all the time, but I sing and don't pay attention to the words. We need to either mean the words we sing or don't sing at all.
Why? Well, just singing meaningless words doesn't give glory to God. But, if you sing worshipful lyrics, and really mean them, you are glorifying God through your songs. And, you don't have to just sing three hymns in church on Sunday-you can sing all the time. The Bible says, "Let my mouth continually sing your praises." (or something to that effect). We don't have to sing all the time, but when we do, let's sing for God's glory.
It wasn't until lately that I actually started noticing the words, and what they meant. I mean, I sing along with the radio all the time, but I sing and don't pay attention to the words. We need to either mean the words we sing or don't sing at all.
Why? Well, just singing meaningless words doesn't give glory to God. But, if you sing worshipful lyrics, and really mean them, you are glorifying God through your songs. And, you don't have to just sing three hymns in church on Sunday-you can sing all the time. The Bible says, "Let my mouth continually sing your praises." (or something to that effect). We don't have to sing all the time, but when we do, let's sing for God's glory.
Just a Quick Update on the Easter Program
Ok, well, yesterday I said that we had a total of five saved. Last night at the Easter Program, we had a full house, and had to set chairs up in the aisles!
Anyways, last night we had two saved and eight recommitments to Christ! PTL!!!!
That makes seven decisions and over twenty recommitments!
Anyways, last night we had two saved and eight recommitments to Christ! PTL!!!!
That makes seven decisions and over twenty recommitments!
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Happy Easter!
He is Risen!
~Mark 16:6~
And he said to them, "Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.
And he said to them, "Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.
Praise Him, for He is worthy!
My God, how wonderful You are,
Your majesty, how bright;
How beautiful Your mercy seat,
In depths of burning light!
How wonderful, how beautiful,
The sight of You must be;
Your endless wisdom, boundless pow'r,
And glorious purity!
O how I fear You, living God,
With deep and tender fear;
And worship You with trembling hope,
And penitential tears!
Yet, I may love You, too,
O Lord Almighty as You are
For You have stooped to ask of me
The love of my poor heart!
~Fredrick W. Faber My God How Wonderful You Are
Isn't our God great? He conquered death and the grave, he deserves our praise!
PS. We are having an Easter drama at our church. We did it Friday and Saturday night, and tonight is our last night. So far we have had five saved, and over ten recommitments to Christ! PTL!!!
My God, how wonderful You are,
Your majesty, how bright;
How beautiful Your mercy seat,
In depths of burning light!
How wonderful, how beautiful,
The sight of You must be;
Your endless wisdom, boundless pow'r,
And glorious purity!
O how I fear You, living God,
With deep and tender fear;
And worship You with trembling hope,
And penitential tears!
Yet, I may love You, too,
O Lord Almighty as You are
For You have stooped to ask of me
The love of my poor heart!
~Fredrick W. Faber My God How Wonderful You Are
Isn't our God great? He conquered death and the grave, he deserves our praise!
PS. We are having an Easter drama at our church. We did it Friday and Saturday night, and tonight is our last night. So far we have had five saved, and over ten recommitments to Christ! PTL!!!
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Maybe if You Had A Son...
Joseph, a troubled carpenter, has a very sick son, and doesn't know where to turn. God doesn't seem to hear him, or listen if he's even there! He's looking for someone to turn to, someone who can help.
"Maybe if you had a son, you would understand." Joseph prays to God at one point, pleading for his small son's life. What Joseph later found out is that God did have a son, and he did understand.
You see, God sent his only son. His son that he loved. He sent him to die for you. I don't know many Moms that would give up their son-even for you.
Think about the cross. It wasn't easy for Jesus to suffer it. He prayed for God to take this cup from him if there was another way, but there wasn't. Crucifixtion is, I believe to this day, one of the absolute worst ways to die.
The prisoner was first scourged until he was barely alive, and chunks of their body would be torn off when the whip (or whatever you like to call it) wrapped around the body and lashed back. After this, Jesus had a purple robe (a sign of royalty) thrown around him and was spit upon and hit. After a while, they would be stripped of their clothes and be marched of to Golgotha carrying their cross. The cross itself was probably extremely heavy, and these people were barley alive. Then they would be nailed to the cross, and lifted up and set down. Now, they weren't set down gently-they were dropped down, and all they had to support them was the nails in their hands and feet.
Jesus knew he would go through all this-yet he did it anyway. And he did it for you. Even if only would person would have been saved, he still would have done it.
But, Jesus didn't stay dead. You see, he rose again three days later! He conquered death and the grave, there on the cross. He defeated the devil, and defeated death so that we don't have to face it. Everyone will die a natural death, but now Jesus offers you eternal life with him forever. You don't have to die in your sin for all eternity.
Accept Jesus today!
**Contact me if you want details on recieving Christ, or questions.
"Maybe if you had a son, you would understand." Joseph prays to God at one point, pleading for his small son's life. What Joseph later found out is that God did have a son, and he did understand.
You see, God sent his only son. His son that he loved. He sent him to die for you. I don't know many Moms that would give up their son-even for you.
Think about the cross. It wasn't easy for Jesus to suffer it. He prayed for God to take this cup from him if there was another way, but there wasn't. Crucifixtion is, I believe to this day, one of the absolute worst ways to die.
The prisoner was first scourged until he was barely alive, and chunks of their body would be torn off when the whip (or whatever you like to call it) wrapped around the body and lashed back. After this, Jesus had a purple robe (a sign of royalty) thrown around him and was spit upon and hit. After a while, they would be stripped of their clothes and be marched of to Golgotha carrying their cross. The cross itself was probably extremely heavy, and these people were barley alive. Then they would be nailed to the cross, and lifted up and set down. Now, they weren't set down gently-they were dropped down, and all they had to support them was the nails in their hands and feet.
Jesus knew he would go through all this-yet he did it anyway. And he did it for you. Even if only would person would have been saved, he still would have done it.
But, Jesus didn't stay dead. You see, he rose again three days later! He conquered death and the grave, there on the cross. He defeated the devil, and defeated death so that we don't have to face it. Everyone will die a natural death, but now Jesus offers you eternal life with him forever. You don't have to die in your sin for all eternity.
Accept Jesus today!
**Contact me if you want details on recieving Christ, or questions.
Monday, April 02, 2007
What Do You Bring to the Table?
What do you contribute to your fellow believers in Christ? Do you do nothing, sitting silently in a corner, always listening? Or, do you try to give God your all and get involved?
Mary, Lazarus's sister, brought Jesus a great gift: she annointed him with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair. The Bible says that the perfume was worth a year's wages. Today, that would be, on average, $30,000 to $35,000 (or somewhere in there). Would you sacrifice everything you would earn for a year, just to be rubbed on somebody's feet? Well, to be honest, I don't think most of us would. But, if it is Jesus's feet, that is a very different matter. But, still, who would? I could say that I would, but would I? I hope I would, but I haven't been in that situation yet. We need to give God our best, and we can't do that in a corner. We have to be in the action, right in the middle of whatever is happening.
But, really, how are you serving God? Are you serving him boldly, and with a purpose? Or, are you too ashamed to attend church openly? Serve God boldly, he didn't die in secret for you. He died in the open, for all to see. Serve him openly and boldly, but don't flaunt it, or boast about what you are doing for God. I am not saying you shouldn't serve God behind the scenes, in fact, I am saying to serve God and not be ashamed of it, and don't try to hide it. If you don't get recognition, that's okay. Those already rewarded with the praise of men have been rewarded. But, those who haven't will be rewarded by God (who wouldn't want to be?).
Bring things to the table, seen or unseen. Serve Jesus without any shame!
Mary, Lazarus's sister, brought Jesus a great gift: she annointed him with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair. The Bible says that the perfume was worth a year's wages. Today, that would be, on average, $30,000 to $35,000 (or somewhere in there). Would you sacrifice everything you would earn for a year, just to be rubbed on somebody's feet? Well, to be honest, I don't think most of us would. But, if it is Jesus's feet, that is a very different matter. But, still, who would? I could say that I would, but would I? I hope I would, but I haven't been in that situation yet. We need to give God our best, and we can't do that in a corner. We have to be in the action, right in the middle of whatever is happening.
But, really, how are you serving God? Are you serving him boldly, and with a purpose? Or, are you too ashamed to attend church openly? Serve God boldly, he didn't die in secret for you. He died in the open, for all to see. Serve him openly and boldly, but don't flaunt it, or boast about what you are doing for God. I am not saying you shouldn't serve God behind the scenes, in fact, I am saying to serve God and not be ashamed of it, and don't try to hide it. If you don't get recognition, that's okay. Those already rewarded with the praise of men have been rewarded. But, those who haven't will be rewarded by God (who wouldn't want to be?).
Bring things to the table, seen or unseen. Serve Jesus without any shame!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Give God your Best and Your All
What are you offering God? Are you singing, "I surrender most. I surrender most. Most of it to Jesus, I surrender. I surrender most."? Well, yes, that would be hard to fit with the melody, but is that your mindset? Do you mean what you sing? What's more, do you even pay attention to the words? So often, I get caught up in singing that I don't even think about what the song is really trying to say.
But, are you offering God your best? Or are you giving Him the leftovers of your time, your money, your energy? Many times we pour ourselves into school, work, play, or whatever else you do. And then, after pouring yourself out, there isn't any leftover for God. Put God first.
Read your Bible first thing in the morning. Don't wait till the evening when you don't have any time leftover, and can't keep your eyes open. I have heard many people say, "Give God all the years when you're single. When you get married, you can't be as completely lost in God." Most of you are single. I am (and am planning to be for some time!). The years when you don't have a spouse to be immersed in, immerse yourself in God! He is (or should be) the love of your life, while others will come and go!
Devote your time to God. Granted, you can't spend all day in front of your Bible (well, you can but, it's kind of impractical). But, you can live a lifestyle of worship. What is that? A lifestyle of worship is a life that is devoted to glorifying God and honoring him in everything that you do. Live like there isn't a tomorrow, because there might not be one! You don't know how long you'll live. You might live for five more minutes, or fifty more years (or the rapture might happen). Devote this vapor of a life to God, giving it all to him.
Give it all to God. Everything. My Dad said when preaching about this, "Some mornings I get out there, and I say 'God, your Taurus [our smaller car] won't start this morning.'" It's true. Some mornings I just want to yell! But, it isn't even yours. Just tell God it's his, and surrender it all to him. Life might not be better, but its simpler. You just have to think about what God can do (anything, right?). He can help you with that test, that problem, or that friend. Give all of it to him, and step back and let him work (however, I am not saying we shouldn't be willing tools! We should be!).
Give it all to God. It'll be so much safer with him.
But, are you offering God your best? Or are you giving Him the leftovers of your time, your money, your energy? Many times we pour ourselves into school, work, play, or whatever else you do. And then, after pouring yourself out, there isn't any leftover for God. Put God first.
Read your Bible first thing in the morning. Don't wait till the evening when you don't have any time leftover, and can't keep your eyes open. I have heard many people say, "Give God all the years when you're single. When you get married, you can't be as completely lost in God." Most of you are single. I am (and am planning to be for some time!). The years when you don't have a spouse to be immersed in, immerse yourself in God! He is (or should be) the love of your life, while others will come and go!
Devote your time to God. Granted, you can't spend all day in front of your Bible (well, you can but, it's kind of impractical). But, you can live a lifestyle of worship. What is that? A lifestyle of worship is a life that is devoted to glorifying God and honoring him in everything that you do. Live like there isn't a tomorrow, because there might not be one! You don't know how long you'll live. You might live for five more minutes, or fifty more years (or the rapture might happen). Devote this vapor of a life to God, giving it all to him.
Give it all to God. Everything. My Dad said when preaching about this, "Some mornings I get out there, and I say 'God, your Taurus [our smaller car] won't start this morning.'" It's true. Some mornings I just want to yell! But, it isn't even yours. Just tell God it's his, and surrender it all to him. Life might not be better, but its simpler. You just have to think about what God can do (anything, right?). He can help you with that test, that problem, or that friend. Give all of it to him, and step back and let him work (however, I am not saying we shouldn't be willing tools! We should be!).
Give it all to God. It'll be so much safer with him.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Lottie Moon
After doing the Annie Armstrong post earlier, (and after persistent comments) I decided to go ahead and post about Lottie Moon.
Charlotte Diggs Moon was born on December 12, 1840 in Virginia. In 1858, she dedicated her life to Christ and was baptized. She was the first lady to receive a master's degree, which she did in 1861. Lottie became a missionary in 1873, with her sister Edmonia, to Tengchow, China. Lottie served 39 years as a missionary to China. She died December 24, 1912 in a harbor in China (many believe that, as this was a time of famine, she died of starvation, because she gave others all her food). She was on her way back to America for the first time since she left when she died.
To read more about Lottie Moon go to:
http://ime.imb.org/LottieMoon/default.asp
http://www.trailblazerbooks.com/books/Moon/Moon-bio.html
http://www.tlogical.net/biolmoon.htm
and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lottie_Moon
**Note**: Soli Deo Gloria is not affiliated to the IMB or any of its ministries in any way.
Charlotte Diggs Moon was born on December 12, 1840 in Virginia. In 1858, she dedicated her life to Christ and was baptized. She was the first lady to receive a master's degree, which she did in 1861. Lottie became a missionary in 1873, with her sister Edmonia, to Tengchow, China. Lottie served 39 years as a missionary to China. She died December 24, 1912 in a harbor in China (many believe that, as this was a time of famine, she died of starvation, because she gave others all her food). She was on her way back to America for the first time since she left when she died.
To read more about Lottie Moon go to:
http://ime.imb.org/LottieMoon/default.asp
http://www.trailblazerbooks.com/books/Moon/Moon-bio.html
http://www.tlogical.net/biolmoon.htm
and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lottie_Moon
**Note**: Soli Deo Gloria is not affiliated to the IMB or any of its ministries in any way.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Good News-Lottie Moon Christmas Offering!
In a story on Baptist Press news (www.bpnews.com) the International Mission Board released a statement saying that the Lottie Moon Christmas was "projected to exceed the 150 million goal." Praise the Lord!
49 missionaries have already been appointed by the trustees, and hopefully more will be soon. Thank you to everyone who gave! You can never know how many people will be reached by these missionaries!
**Note**: Soli Deo Gloria is not in any way affiliated with the International Mission Board, or the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
49 missionaries have already been appointed by the trustees, and hopefully more will be soon. Thank you to everyone who gave! You can never know how many people will be reached by these missionaries!
**Note**: Soli Deo Gloria is not in any way affiliated with the International Mission Board, or the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Keep On
This is a poem a friend of mine wrote. I thought it really described how a lot of us feel a lot of the time!
“Keep On”
You know you’re different,
They do too.
You don’t know why,
But they look at you.
They wonder why you’re like that,
They think that you are odd,
I know sometimes it’s tempting,
But do not follow the crowd.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
I know you’re trying to find
the reason why you’re here,
But just trust God,
He understands your fear.
You know the truth, but still it hurts.
He’s made you who you are for a reason,
You know but you don’t understand.
He’s placed you where you are in this season.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
You wonder, is it worth it?
Or should I just be like them?
Yes, I guess I’m happy,
But I’m also suffering.
Don’t do it.
Don’t give in.
It will be worth it
In the end.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
And yes, you’ll get questions.
And yes, you get ridiculed,
But just ignore them,
And a stronger relationship with God you’ll build.
For His opinions are the ones that matter,
So don’t worry about what they think.
God will make you stronger,
Link by link.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying
Wow! What an awesome poem, and what's more an awesome challenge as well! Let's keep on keeping on! Soli Deo Gloria!
“Keep On”
You know you’re different,
They do too.
You don’t know why,
But they look at you.
They wonder why you’re like that,
They think that you are odd,
I know sometimes it’s tempting,
But do not follow the crowd.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
I know you’re trying to find
the reason why you’re here,
But just trust God,
He understands your fear.
You know the truth, but still it hurts.
He’s made you who you are for a reason,
You know but you don’t understand.
He’s placed you where you are in this season.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
You wonder, is it worth it?
Or should I just be like them?
Yes, I guess I’m happy,
But I’m also suffering.
Don’t do it.
Don’t give in.
It will be worth it
In the end.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying.
And yes, you’ll get questions.
And yes, you get ridiculed,
But just ignore them,
And a stronger relationship with God you’ll build.
For His opinions are the ones that matter,
So don’t worry about what they think.
God will make you stronger,
Link by link.
I know it hurts sometimes,
Keep on fighting.
I know it’s hard sometimes,
Keep on trying
Wow! What an awesome poem, and what's more an awesome challenge as well! Let's keep on keeping on! Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Pour Out My Heart
I'm longing to pour out my heart
And say that I love you
Pour out my heart
And say that I need you
Pour out my heart
And say that I'm thankful
Pour out my heart
And say that you're wonderful
Before, I talked about being real. Well, we have to be real with God. Drop the "thee" and "thou" from your prayers, he knows who you really are! I'm not saying don't be respectful, but if you put on a front for God, he'll know it. God knows everything. Just tell him everything that happens in your life, your concerns, your dreams, your hopes, your plans. Everything. Pour out your hurts, your laughs, your joy, and your tears. Give them all to him. If you really want God to be the Lord of your life, you have to tell him about it! Talk to him about your friends, why you like them, or what you think that they should do better. He already knows everything you're going to tell him...But he wants to hear it anyway! He loves you, he cares for you. So, tell him about the real you. The person who laughs or cries inwardly, and has to be strong outwardly. He wants to know you. So pour out your heart to him.
And say that I love you
Pour out my heart
And say that I need you
Pour out my heart
And say that I'm thankful
Pour out my heart
And say that you're wonderful
Before, I talked about being real. Well, we have to be real with God. Drop the "thee" and "thou" from your prayers, he knows who you really are! I'm not saying don't be respectful, but if you put on a front for God, he'll know it. God knows everything. Just tell him everything that happens in your life, your concerns, your dreams, your hopes, your plans. Everything. Pour out your hurts, your laughs, your joy, and your tears. Give them all to him. If you really want God to be the Lord of your life, you have to tell him about it! Talk to him about your friends, why you like them, or what you think that they should do better. He already knows everything you're going to tell him...But he wants to hear it anyway! He loves you, he cares for you. So, tell him about the real you. The person who laughs or cries inwardly, and has to be strong outwardly. He wants to know you. So pour out your heart to him.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Are You Real?
There is a great song by KJ52. It talks about God asking us if we are "real". Are you real? Are you upfront and candid? Do you put on a front for other people? If you aren't yourself around some people and pretend to be what you're not, you aren't real.
So much stress keeps running through me now
I fell into a mess that I wish I could climb out
I guess I'll hide it so nobody will find out
That way everyone thinks everything is fine now
At home things are messed up with Mom and Dad
And at school all my friends stab me in the back
No one is real anymore I hate the way they act
There is so many things I wish I had
So God if your there do you understand
Don't you care about anything that's happening
It's not fair to put me through all this junk again
You see that I'm scared so help me if you can
So please speak loud and clear cuz I'm listening
I need to know that your real cuz I'm struggling
You need to show that your real cuz I'm stumbling
Show me that you care and this is what I'm saying
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
It was right then when everything it began to change
I started looking at these things
In a different way I saw life through God's eyes and it wasn't the same
That was right at the time I called on your name
And then I saw all the lies that was thrown my way
I recognized that I need you and on that day
I cried out and seeked you that was when you came
Now that I see you I've been through a major change
I believe you are real cuz it's so plain
Finally I feel that I can make it through anything
It don't matter what they speak or if they hate
They can't keep me down no more cuz I've seen your face
And from now never will I be ashamed cuz I'm a stand strong
I won't bend or sway now that I know that you are real it's gonna be okay
I hear you speaking in my ear and this is what you say
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
See there is a war that's going on outside
You can try and ignore it and just run and hide
But everyday more and more people die
See the battle is for souls and we are on the front lines
So many soldiers are too scared to fight
They're too worried about what people thinking of their life
How can you fight if you won't lay down ya pride
And how will anyone see if you won't shine your light
So many of your friends just walking around blind
And you've got the source that can open up their eyes
It's y'alls choice what you'll do with your lives
But I'm gonna go to war cuz I've made up my mind
Jesus gave his life when he went and died
So the least I can do is just give him all of mine
So how many of y'all are ready to fight by my side
Cuz this is what he's saying here tonight
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
If you are wondering why such words as "ya" and "cuz" were in there, yes, I did notice them. That's just how people spell things in rap.
But, I want you to notice the second verse. How many of us are to scared to lay down our pride and fight the good fight? God knows if we're real or not, but he wants us to show him anyway. I have to admit that this is hard for me. It's so easy to seem all spiritual and all that on here. I know sometimes I'm not real. I wish I were more. But, I know, I can make myself be more real with everyone I know. Are you real? Maybe the best way to answer this question is to ask God. He will show you. You can fight beside me. But, you have to be real with people, and you have to be real with God. Will you be real?
So much stress keeps running through me now
I fell into a mess that I wish I could climb out
I guess I'll hide it so nobody will find out
That way everyone thinks everything is fine now
At home things are messed up with Mom and Dad
And at school all my friends stab me in the back
No one is real anymore I hate the way they act
There is so many things I wish I had
So God if your there do you understand
Don't you care about anything that's happening
It's not fair to put me through all this junk again
You see that I'm scared so help me if you can
So please speak loud and clear cuz I'm listening
I need to know that your real cuz I'm struggling
You need to show that your real cuz I'm stumbling
Show me that you care and this is what I'm saying
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
It was right then when everything it began to change
I started looking at these things
In a different way I saw life through God's eyes and it wasn't the same
That was right at the time I called on your name
And then I saw all the lies that was thrown my way
I recognized that I need you and on that day
I cried out and seeked you that was when you came
Now that I see you I've been through a major change
I believe you are real cuz it's so plain
Finally I feel that I can make it through anything
It don't matter what they speak or if they hate
They can't keep me down no more cuz I've seen your face
And from now never will I be ashamed cuz I'm a stand strong
I won't bend or sway now that I know that you are real it's gonna be okay
I hear you speaking in my ear and this is what you say
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
See there is a war that's going on outside
You can try and ignore it and just run and hide
But everyday more and more people die
See the battle is for souls and we are on the front lines
So many soldiers are too scared to fight
They're too worried about what people thinking of their life
How can you fight if you won't lay down ya pride
And how will anyone see if you won't shine your light
So many of your friends just walking around blind
And you've got the source that can open up their eyes
It's y'alls choice what you'll do with your lives
But I'm gonna go to war cuz I've made up my mind
Jesus gave his life when he went and died
So the least I can do is just give him all of mine
So how many of y'all are ready to fight by my side
Cuz this is what he's saying here tonight
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it go
Are you real I want to know
Are you real then let it show
If you are wondering why such words as "ya" and "cuz" were in there, yes, I did notice them. That's just how people spell things in rap.
But, I want you to notice the second verse. How many of us are to scared to lay down our pride and fight the good fight? God knows if we're real or not, but he wants us to show him anyway. I have to admit that this is hard for me. It's so easy to seem all spiritual and all that on here. I know sometimes I'm not real. I wish I were more. But, I know, I can make myself be more real with everyone I know. Are you real? Maybe the best way to answer this question is to ask God. He will show you. You can fight beside me. But, you have to be real with people, and you have to be real with God. Will you be real?
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Annie Armstrong
Every year at our church we take an Annie Armstrong offering. Up until recently, I wasn't really sure why we did it. Well, Annie Armstrong was a remarkable person, and I think we could learn a little more about her.
Annie Walker Armstrong was born July 11, 1850. She was the daughter of James and Mary Armstrong. Annie became a Christian at the age of 19, and was baptized into the church shortly after. She encouraged the first Lottie Moon Christmas offering and worked to raise money for it herself. She worked with the Southern Baptist Convention until 1906 when she resigned. She died on December 20, 1938.
This is just the bare facts, but there is so much you can learn about her! For more information go to: www.anniearmstrong.com, or www.tlogical.net/bioarmstrong.htm.
Think about your offering. Why do you give it? Where does it go? Do you really know?
The North American Mission Board said, "The Annie Armstrong Easter Offering is much more than an offering envelope and an annual missions-giving emphasis. When people give to the offering, 100 percent of their gift will be transformed into missionary salaries and ministry supplies. Those missionaries and supplies will help others hear the message of Christ and respond in faith to His offer of salvation. Time and again our missionaries relate how the offering is their lifeblood. They know that behind each penny given, there is a Southern Baptist who believes in what they do and are affirming the need to equip them to share the gospel with those who need a Savior."
This offering supports missionaries all over the world that are sharing the Bible with people every day. This is just another way we can help.
*Note*: Soli Deo Gloria or its author in any way, are not associated with the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering. We leave the choice of giving to the offering entirely up to the reader, we just want to provide the readers with information about the offering and the person it was named for.
Annie Walker Armstrong was born July 11, 1850. She was the daughter of James and Mary Armstrong. Annie became a Christian at the age of 19, and was baptized into the church shortly after. She encouraged the first Lottie Moon Christmas offering and worked to raise money for it herself. She worked with the Southern Baptist Convention until 1906 when she resigned. She died on December 20, 1938.
This is just the bare facts, but there is so much you can learn about her! For more information go to: www.anniearmstrong.com, or www.tlogical.net/bioarmstrong.htm.
Think about your offering. Why do you give it? Where does it go? Do you really know?
The North American Mission Board said, "The Annie Armstrong Easter Offering is much more than an offering envelope and an annual missions-giving emphasis. When people give to the offering, 100 percent of their gift will be transformed into missionary salaries and ministry supplies. Those missionaries and supplies will help others hear the message of Christ and respond in faith to His offer of salvation. Time and again our missionaries relate how the offering is their lifeblood. They know that behind each penny given, there is a Southern Baptist who believes in what they do and are affirming the need to equip them to share the gospel with those who need a Savior."
This offering supports missionaries all over the world that are sharing the Bible with people every day. This is just another way we can help.
*Note*: Soli Deo Gloria or its author in any way, are not associated with the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering. We leave the choice of giving to the offering entirely up to the reader, we just want to provide the readers with information about the offering and the person it was named for.
Monday, February 26, 2007
It's Not a Choice, It's a Child
I don't believe abortion is permissible by any means. Why should we kill children who have yet to be born when we were once just like them? Who gave us permission to kill a child if it is "unwanted"?
There is a very sweet couple in our church who have always wanted a baby. After many miscarriages they decided to adopt. Now, they have an energertic two-year-old. If his mother hadn't decided to give her baby up to be adopted, he might have been aborted. There are so many families that want these little babies that are killed every day.
Many people say that life begins at birth. But, in a story on Baptist Press News (www.bpnews.net) they share the story of a baby girl born at 23 weeks. Most babies are born between 37 and 40 weeks. The death rate for babies born that early is 70%. Everyone around her has pronounced her an absolute miracle. Baptist Press said, "“Instead, it’s time to see human life as a continuous thread beginning at conception and entitled to protection at all stages,” said Buckley, a fellow of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission’s Research Institute. “As Dr. Seuss used to say, ‘A person’s a person, no matter how small.’”" I highly agree with Dr. Seuss. A baby, though it may still be in the womb, is a person.
Elisabeth Elliot in her book, On Asking God Why says this about a premature baby at a hospital, "...Who is it that makes the "selections"? Who may determine which tiny person is acceptable and maybe permitted to be born (and if necessary, hovered over, cradled in a sterile temperature controlled incubator to assist his survival), and which is unacceptable and may betreated as a cancer or a gangrenous growth and surgically or chemically removed? What perverted vision of "life enhancement" warrants such a choice?" Indeed, who is to make that choice? If God so blesses you with a baby, do you have a choice of depriving it of life?"
God is the giver of life, and it must grieve him to know that we are ready and, in some cases, willing to destroy it. Isaiah 66:9 says, "Shall I bring to the point of birth and not cause to bring forth?" says the LORD; "shall I, who cause to bring forth, shut the womb?" says your God."
God clearly says gives us life. Should he? Should he 'shut the womb'? Many women today are doing this artificially using pills and other means that actually abort babies.
Many people are ready to adopt if the parent (or parents) do not believe they are capable, or simply don't want the baby (Which, personally I don't understand. I love babies!). Romans 8:16 says, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" We have been adopted by God, and we can follow his example if he leads us to do so.
That baby isn't a choice. It isn't a little glob of tissue. It is a child that God designed and breathed life into.
There is a very sweet couple in our church who have always wanted a baby. After many miscarriages they decided to adopt. Now, they have an energertic two-year-old. If his mother hadn't decided to give her baby up to be adopted, he might have been aborted. There are so many families that want these little babies that are killed every day.
Many people say that life begins at birth. But, in a story on Baptist Press News (www.bpnews.net) they share the story of a baby girl born at 23 weeks. Most babies are born between 37 and 40 weeks. The death rate for babies born that early is 70%. Everyone around her has pronounced her an absolute miracle. Baptist Press said, "“Instead, it’s time to see human life as a continuous thread beginning at conception and entitled to protection at all stages,” said Buckley, a fellow of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission’s Research Institute. “As Dr. Seuss used to say, ‘A person’s a person, no matter how small.’”" I highly agree with Dr. Seuss. A baby, though it may still be in the womb, is a person.
Elisabeth Elliot in her book, On Asking God Why says this about a premature baby at a hospital, "...Who is it that makes the "selections"? Who may determine which tiny person is acceptable and maybe permitted to be born (and if necessary, hovered over, cradled in a sterile temperature controlled incubator to assist his survival), and which is unacceptable and may betreated as a cancer or a gangrenous growth and surgically or chemically removed? What perverted vision of "life enhancement" warrants such a choice?" Indeed, who is to make that choice? If God so blesses you with a baby, do you have a choice of depriving it of life?"
God is the giver of life, and it must grieve him to know that we are ready and, in some cases, willing to destroy it. Isaiah 66:9 says, "Shall I bring to the point of birth and not cause to bring forth?" says the LORD; "shall I, who cause to bring forth, shut the womb?" says your God."
God clearly says gives us life. Should he? Should he 'shut the womb'? Many women today are doing this artificially using pills and other means that actually abort babies.
Many people are ready to adopt if the parent (or parents) do not believe they are capable, or simply don't want the baby (Which, personally I don't understand. I love babies!). Romans 8:16 says, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" We have been adopted by God, and we can follow his example if he leads us to do so.
That baby isn't a choice. It isn't a little glob of tissue. It is a child that God designed and breathed life into.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
I Say to My Heart
I got this beautiful poem off a forum on the Rebelution (www.therebelution.com). I really liked this, and wanted to share it with you. A homeschooled preacher's daughter wrote it. I am including a few thoughts she posted with the poem.
Girls, can you bring to mind that guy who somehow occupies all of your thoughts? He is admirable and perhaps physically attractive to you, and he seems to fit the mold for your ideal Christian young man. At church, at school, or anywhere else, your interactions with him make you involve your emotions deeper. The problem is, he does not seem to reciprocate your feelings as deeply, and you are thrown into confusion or even tears. Have you ever felt that way? I know many girls have or do feel that way now. Well, at least I have. Anyway, after one long afternoon of crying and praying, this is what I have to share. I hope it helps.
I say to my heart, “Let go, let go,”
But it wouldn’t understand;
Although his affections it won’t know
It still foolishly demands
A right to discretely, softly show
A lingering, slight command
O’er knowledge of him, o’er soul’s outflow
Of feelings within its hands.
I say to my heart, “Be still, be still,”
But it always disobeys;
Whenever his voice my senses fill
My heart will not calmly lay
Within its protection—mindful will,
The only sense sane through days
Of pain and of joys or of tears until
Within heaven’s arms I’ll lay.
I say to my heart, “You foolish thing,
The pain you inflict on me
Is more than the happiness you bring,”
But still it would not release
The feelings it holds and dearly clings
As if that’s all life could be;
Each compliment that his tongue should ring
Still kills ev’ry chance for ease.
I say to my heart, “When will you stop To think of what cannot be?”
But still when I harvest vision’s crop
He stays in my fantasies;
Each dream that I know I ought to drop
Persists to remain in me,
So I could be on the hillcrest’s top
Just only when me he sees.
I say to my heart, “Let go, let go, You’ll never be wise this way.”
Then softly it answers, “God bestows Each trial, so he who prays
Will learn to accept when He says ‘no’
And live for Him day to day.
These things come and go, just trust and know
Your best still in future lays.
Wow. I really liked that and I hope you did too. I think it provides some excellent food for the thought.
Girls, can you bring to mind that guy who somehow occupies all of your thoughts? He is admirable and perhaps physically attractive to you, and he seems to fit the mold for your ideal Christian young man. At church, at school, or anywhere else, your interactions with him make you involve your emotions deeper. The problem is, he does not seem to reciprocate your feelings as deeply, and you are thrown into confusion or even tears. Have you ever felt that way? I know many girls have or do feel that way now. Well, at least I have. Anyway, after one long afternoon of crying and praying, this is what I have to share. I hope it helps.
I say to my heart, “Let go, let go,”
But it wouldn’t understand;
Although his affections it won’t know
It still foolishly demands
A right to discretely, softly show
A lingering, slight command
O’er knowledge of him, o’er soul’s outflow
Of feelings within its hands.
I say to my heart, “Be still, be still,”
But it always disobeys;
Whenever his voice my senses fill
My heart will not calmly lay
Within its protection—mindful will,
The only sense sane through days
Of pain and of joys or of tears until
Within heaven’s arms I’ll lay.
I say to my heart, “You foolish thing,
The pain you inflict on me
Is more than the happiness you bring,”
But still it would not release
The feelings it holds and dearly clings
As if that’s all life could be;
Each compliment that his tongue should ring
Still kills ev’ry chance for ease.
I say to my heart, “When will you stop To think of what cannot be?”
But still when I harvest vision’s crop
He stays in my fantasies;
Each dream that I know I ought to drop
Persists to remain in me,
So I could be on the hillcrest’s top
Just only when me he sees.
I say to my heart, “Let go, let go, You’ll never be wise this way.”
Then softly it answers, “God bestows Each trial, so he who prays
Will learn to accept when He says ‘no’
And live for Him day to day.
These things come and go, just trust and know
Your best still in future lays.
Wow. I really liked that and I hope you did too. I think it provides some excellent food for the thought.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Jesus Freaks
Okay, well I'm sorry if some of you don't use that word. Trust me, it isn't original. It actually comes from a very cool website called (guess what?!) Jesus Freaks! This website was made by DC Talk after they published their books Jesus Freaks and Jesus Freaks II. A Jesus Freak is a person willing to die for their faith, and ultimately their God. This is a very cool website and I highly encourage to visit it. Here is statement available on the site to those who want to be a Jesus Freak:
Commit Yourself to Being a Jesus Freak... From this day forward!
I will make a difference.
Jesus, I thank you that You suffered and died for me on the
cross to pay for my sins.
Father, I thank You that You raised Jesus from the dead to be my living Lord and Savior.
Holy Spirit, I thank you that You will lead me to do the right thing and change my world.
Today, Lord, I want to make you a promise.
I will not be ashamed of Your name or Your Gospel.
I will do what I can for those who are persecuted and pray for them.
I will look enemies in the eye and love them with Your love.
I will pray for them and love
them—no matter the consequences.
I will follow Your voice wherever You lead me, unafraid, for I know You will be with me.
If I should stumble, if I fall, if I should deny Your name, if I should feel guilty that I did not
pray or forgot to do something You’ve asked me not to do, I will not quit.
I will not wallow in guilt. I will turn back to You, confess my sin, and do what You called me to do, because that is why You died for me.
I will stand with You and my brothers and sisters around the world, because no matter
what happens, no matter what I face or how it looks, in the end, we will be victorious—
we will inherit eternity and heaven with You.
I can do nothing else, because …I am a Jesus Freak.
Wow! Pretty powerful isn't it? Well, all I have to say is this: Are you a Jesus Freak? Do you want to be?
PS Here is the link to the site: https://www.jesusfreaks.net
You can get a printable version of the commitment above that you can sign and date.
Commit Yourself to Being a Jesus Freak... From this day forward!
I will make a difference.
Jesus, I thank you that You suffered and died for me on the
cross to pay for my sins.
Father, I thank You that You raised Jesus from the dead to be my living Lord and Savior.
Holy Spirit, I thank you that You will lead me to do the right thing and change my world.
Today, Lord, I want to make you a promise.
I will not be ashamed of Your name or Your Gospel.
I will do what I can for those who are persecuted and pray for them.
I will look enemies in the eye and love them with Your love.
I will pray for them and love
them—no matter the consequences.
I will follow Your voice wherever You lead me, unafraid, for I know You will be with me.
If I should stumble, if I fall, if I should deny Your name, if I should feel guilty that I did not
pray or forgot to do something You’ve asked me not to do, I will not quit.
I will not wallow in guilt. I will turn back to You, confess my sin, and do what You called me to do, because that is why You died for me.
I will stand with You and my brothers and sisters around the world, because no matter
what happens, no matter what I face or how it looks, in the end, we will be victorious—
we will inherit eternity and heaven with You.
I can do nothing else, because …I am a Jesus Freak.
Wow! Pretty powerful isn't it? Well, all I have to say is this: Are you a Jesus Freak? Do you want to be?
PS Here is the link to the site: https://www.jesusfreaks.net
You can get a printable version of the commitment above that you can sign and date.
But, God...There? Oh Come on!
I talked earlier about servanthood. It's almost funny. People learn about it. They get excited. And then, many of them stop. Why? Well, God asks us to things that won't get recognition, the dirty jobs, if you will. But, many people ask, "Why me? Can't that other person do it just as well?!"
I read in a book once this: God doesn't need us, he wants us. Just think of that. God, the Almighty Creator of the universe doesn't need you, but he wants you. Sure another person could do that job, but God wants you! Not your neighbor, not your brother. He wants you! He wants you to serve him by helping that elderly lady to the car, though you would rather be with your friends.
Sometimes, we just plain don't want to. There isn't any other reason, we just do not want to do it that day. Well, sorry to be the one to break it to you, but you need to. "Oh come on", some would say, "You sound like my mom!" (*remember this, I am a teenager just like you!*) Well, your Mom is probably a wise person.
So, let's do what God wants us to do!
I read in a book once this: God doesn't need us, he wants us. Just think of that. God, the Almighty Creator of the universe doesn't need you, but he wants you. Sure another person could do that job, but God wants you! Not your neighbor, not your brother. He wants you! He wants you to serve him by helping that elderly lady to the car, though you would rather be with your friends.
Sometimes, we just plain don't want to. There isn't any other reason, we just do not want to do it that day. Well, sorry to be the one to break it to you, but you need to. "Oh come on", some would say, "You sound like my mom!" (*remember this, I am a teenager just like you!*) Well, your Mom is probably a wise person.
So, let's do what God wants us to do!
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Okay..So Why?
There is a Ginny Owens song "This Road." I really like it. The song deals with asking God why we have to go (live) the way we are. I have asked God "Why?" so many times that this song really touched a part of me.
A million miles away from anything familiar
A thousand places I would rather be
So I choke back the tears and try to find the bright side
Though I find it hard to see beyond my suffering
In my heart I know your plan is so much bigger
But this small part is all that I can see
And I believe you haven't left me here to wander
Still I can't help but ponder where you're leading me
(Chorus)
And I ask why this road
Why this way and this load
Tell me how far must I go till I see
Till I know why this road
A million miles away from anything familiar
What was it like to be so far from home
Though you came in love
The world misunderstood you
There must have been some days when you felt so alone
But you endured, cause there was joy before you
Joy that came because you sacrificed
Since you gave yourself just to spend forever with me
Surely I can trust you'll lead me through my darkest times
When I ask why....
(Chorus)
And I ask why this road
Why this way and this load
Tell me how far must I go Till I see
Till I know why this road
From here I can not see
Why you'd choose this path for me
But I don't have to understand to believe
That you know whyYou know why this road
Why this way and this load
You know how far I must go till I see
Till I know why this road
It's okay to ask God why. In fact, some of the strongest Christians I know, do it every day. Ask why, but believe and trust that God knows, even if he doesn't tell you clearly.
A million miles away from anything familiar
A thousand places I would rather be
So I choke back the tears and try to find the bright side
Though I find it hard to see beyond my suffering
In my heart I know your plan is so much bigger
But this small part is all that I can see
And I believe you haven't left me here to wander
Still I can't help but ponder where you're leading me
(Chorus)
And I ask why this road
Why this way and this load
Tell me how far must I go till I see
Till I know why this road
A million miles away from anything familiar
What was it like to be so far from home
Though you came in love
The world misunderstood you
There must have been some days when you felt so alone
But you endured, cause there was joy before you
Joy that came because you sacrificed
Since you gave yourself just to spend forever with me
Surely I can trust you'll lead me through my darkest times
When I ask why....
(Chorus)
And I ask why this road
Why this way and this load
Tell me how far must I go Till I see
Till I know why this road
From here I can not see
Why you'd choose this path for me
But I don't have to understand to believe
That you know whyYou know why this road
Why this way and this load
You know how far I must go till I see
Till I know why this road
It's okay to ask God why. In fact, some of the strongest Christians I know, do it every day. Ask why, but believe and trust that God knows, even if he doesn't tell you clearly.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Servanthood? No Fun!
Servanthood is an essential part of being a Christian. Think about it for just a second. What if no one you knew was willing to do anything for anyone else? What if they thought of no one but themselves?
I know that many people wouldn't be Christians today without some people demonstrating servanthood. But, first, think. What is servanthood?
Well, servanthood is getting rid of the words me, myself, and I. To be a servant you have to put yourself last. To be a servant is to consider others better than you. A servant never does anything for his own gain, but to further the kingdom of Christ. I'm not saying you shouldn't participate in anything (school, church, reading books, drawing etc.). But, you have to consider how that might help you serve others (and ultimately Christ!) better. To me (oops, that word again!), servanthood isn't a thing you religiously practice one hour a week. Servanthood is a mindset.
But, true servanthood is not doing something for others and mumbling and grumbling. Or even thinking about where you would rather be. Servanthood is so completely in submission that a servant doesn't consider what is best for himself (or herself).
To be a servant you must consider your master. Jesus is the ultimate example of servanthood. He came not to please himself but to serve others. Look to him for your example.
Quite honestly, I wish I could say that this is what I do all the time. But, it isn't. Trust me, to be a servant it takes work and time. You aren't going to become the greatest servant ever in a day or two.
I know that many people wouldn't be Christians today without some people demonstrating servanthood. But, first, think. What is servanthood?
Well, servanthood is getting rid of the words me, myself, and I. To be a servant you have to put yourself last. To be a servant is to consider others better than you. A servant never does anything for his own gain, but to further the kingdom of Christ. I'm not saying you shouldn't participate in anything (school, church, reading books, drawing etc.). But, you have to consider how that might help you serve others (and ultimately Christ!) better. To me (oops, that word again!), servanthood isn't a thing you religiously practice one hour a week. Servanthood is a mindset.
But, true servanthood is not doing something for others and mumbling and grumbling. Or even thinking about where you would rather be. Servanthood is so completely in submission that a servant doesn't consider what is best for himself (or herself).
To be a servant you must consider your master. Jesus is the ultimate example of servanthood. He came not to please himself but to serve others. Look to him for your example.
Quite honestly, I wish I could say that this is what I do all the time. But, it isn't. Trust me, to be a servant it takes work and time. You aren't going to become the greatest servant ever in a day or two.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Well...God Gave the Increase!
I love 1 Corinthians 3:6. Paul says, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth[increase]. Paul takes absolutely no credit for what he did in the equasion. He gave God all the glory. We need to be like that.
Many times I know we (myself included!) tend to think of ourselves are heroic for the very least little thing. You know, "Oh, I picked up a toy, and Mom didn't ask me too. I must be the greatest thing on earth!" I'm not belittling obeying your mother, you should. But, you should go above and beyond what she asks. I know that I could improve in this way, and I know others can too. We need to do as much as we can, remembering Jesus's words (If you do this to least of these, you are doing it to me.). If we just tell someone "Thank you" or say something politely, we are doing it to Jesus. But, on the flip side, if we say something rude or not nice, we are doing that to Jesus. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be rude to Jesus (Who wouldn't?).
But, back to the other, I think we need to live with humility. Micah 6:8 says "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" We need to walk humbly. What does that mean for you? Stepping out of the spotlight? Making friends with the person no one wants to be friends with? Be prepared to do anything without credit. Sometimes you will have thankless jobs. Sometimes you'll feel no one cares about what you do. Sometimes people might take advantage of your willingness to serve and help others. Be ready! God will give you your reward in heaven, so don't worry about the one down here.
Many times I know we (myself included!) tend to think of ourselves are heroic for the very least little thing. You know, "Oh, I picked up a toy, and Mom didn't ask me too. I must be the greatest thing on earth!" I'm not belittling obeying your mother, you should. But, you should go above and beyond what she asks. I know that I could improve in this way, and I know others can too. We need to do as much as we can, remembering Jesus's words (If you do this to least of these, you are doing it to me.). If we just tell someone "Thank you" or say something politely, we are doing it to Jesus. But, on the flip side, if we say something rude or not nice, we are doing that to Jesus. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be rude to Jesus (Who wouldn't?).
But, back to the other, I think we need to live with humility. Micah 6:8 says "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" We need to walk humbly. What does that mean for you? Stepping out of the spotlight? Making friends with the person no one wants to be friends with? Be prepared to do anything without credit. Sometimes you will have thankless jobs. Sometimes you'll feel no one cares about what you do. Sometimes people might take advantage of your willingness to serve and help others. Be ready! God will give you your reward in heaven, so don't worry about the one down here.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
The Rebelution Modesty Survey
TheRebelution.com just launched the results of their massive Modesty Survey! Over 1,600 Christian guys answered questions on everything from glitter lotion and lip gloss to swimsuits and skirt slits! For you girls, it's everything you've ever wanted to ask guys about modesty, but were afraid to ask! For you guys, it's really interesting to see what other Christian guys think!
Most importantly, the survey is presented as a resource to help Christian girls (and guys), not a list of legalistic rules, and it is accompanied by the Modesty Survey Petition (which tons of guys have signed) which encourage young women to focus on the heart, not the hemline, to honor their parents, etc.
TheRebelution.com presents the results of the survey as a big St. Valentine's Day gift from 1,600 Christian guys to all Christian girls—and I can't think of a better one!
Go check it out: www.therebelution.com/modestysurvey
But also make sure you spread the word to all your friends. We want as many Christian girls as possible to see it on Valentines Day, so you can repost this post on your blog or forward it as an email.
Guys, they are still accepting signatures for the Modesty Survey Petition, so this is an opportunity for you to still share your voice on the topic of modesty!
I really would like for you all to check this out! It is so cool!
Most importantly, the survey is presented as a resource to help Christian girls (and guys), not a list of legalistic rules, and it is accompanied by the Modesty Survey Petition (which tons of guys have signed) which encourage young women to focus on the heart, not the hemline, to honor their parents, etc.
TheRebelution.com presents the results of the survey as a big St. Valentine's Day gift from 1,600 Christian guys to all Christian girls—and I can't think of a better one!
Go check it out: www.therebelution.com/modestysurvey
But also make sure you spread the word to all your friends. We want as many Christian girls as possible to see it on Valentines Day, so you can repost this post on your blog or forward it as an email.
Guys, they are still accepting signatures for the Modesty Survey Petition, so this is an opportunity for you to still share your voice on the topic of modesty!
I really would like for you all to check this out! It is so cool!
Friday, February 09, 2007
This Man
Last time I posted I told how Jesus suffered on the cross for us. This is a song by Jeremy Camp that I think really illustrates it.
In only a moment truth was seen, revealed this mystery
The crown that showed no dignity, He wore
And the king was placed for all the world to show disgrace
But only beauty flowed from this place
Chorus:
Would you take the place of this Man
Would you take the nails from His hands
Would you take the place of this Man
Would you take the nails from His hands
He held the weight of impurity
The father would not see the reasons had finally come to be to show
The depth of His grace flowed with every sin erased
He knew that this was why He came
Chorus:
And we just don’t know
The blood and water flowed
And in it all He showed just how much He cared
And the veil was torn so we could have this open door
And all these things have finally been complete
Chorus
I think that this song is really cool. The first time I ever heard it was at church camp. They had taken this song and put clips from Passion of the Christ to it. I don't think that there was a dry eye in the place. But, the thing that really struck me was the chorus. Seeing clips of that movie, and asking "Would you take his place?" really hit home. I wondered if I really would take his place. I know that he did it for me, but would I do it for him? I have to ask myself this question every day. I could say that I say yes every day, but I don't. I should, but I don't. Do you? Would you take his place?
Jeremy Camp - This Man
From the album Restored
The crown that showed no dignity, He wore
And the king was placed for all the world to show disgrace
But only beauty flowed from this place
Chorus:
Would you take the place of this Man
Would you take the nails from His hands
Would you take the place of this Man
Would you take the nails from His hands
He held the weight of impurity
The father would not see the reasons had finally come to be to show
The depth of His grace flowed with every sin erased
He knew that this was why He came
Chorus:
And we just don’t know
The blood and water flowed
And in it all He showed just how much He cared
And the veil was torn so we could have this open door
And all these things have finally been complete
Chorus
I think that this song is really cool. The first time I ever heard it was at church camp. They had taken this song and put clips from Passion of the Christ to it. I don't think that there was a dry eye in the place. But, the thing that really struck me was the chorus. Seeing clips of that movie, and asking "Would you take his place?" really hit home. I wondered if I really would take his place. I know that he did it for me, but would I do it for him? I have to ask myself this question every day. I could say that I say yes every day, but I don't. I should, but I don't. Do you? Would you take his place?
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Amazing Love (why do I deserve it?)
I want you to think about this scene for a few minutes: There is a rugged hill. A group of people standing gawking. A few of them are weeping. You look up, and there are three crosses. Three men are hanging on them, but your attention is drawn to one. He has blood flowing down his body. He has a crown of thorns mashed into his head. He is covered in bruises, dirt and dried blood. With a great effort he speaks! He says, "It is finished." As he drops his head lifelessly a darkness sweeps over you. You hear a murmur in the crowd. A few of the women wailing. The soldiers come up and break the other two men's legs. The die shortly after. But, they come to the central man and pierce his side. Water, then blood flows out. The soldiers nod to the others that he is dead. A man hurrys up to claim the dead body. The women group around it. You wonder why the man had to die.
Well, it sounds dark and depressing. Actually, it is. But, the good news is that this man didn't die in vain. He died for you! Imagine you on your worst day. Then, think he did it for me! I know I don't deserve it. None of us do. But, you ask, "Why? Why did he have to die for me?" Well, he died for you because he loved you. Now, think about this for a minute. Even if you have been in church your whole life (like me!) you won't lose the wonder, the joy, the peace. He loved you. Think about that. He won't ever leave you, he loves you, he died for you! Wow! He did that for me!? I really don't deserve it! But, what can we do to repay him? Well, we can't. Ever. But, we can love him and live for him with everything that we've got. Just think, he died for you! Can you surrender your life to him?
But, the best thing about this story is that Jesus didn't stay dead! No matter how many times I hear it, this story never loses the joy for me. Jesus really did die. And he stayed dead. But, he conquered death and the grave and rose again on the third day! Wow! You know, he did that for you too. Jesus loves you. Never forget that. No matter where you are, or what you are doing never forget that Jesus loves you. He died for you to save you, to rescue you. Can you give him yourself completely? Without holding anything back? He is waiting for you. You might be saved already, but you feel you haven't completely given it all to him. Do that now. Or you might not be saved. If not, do that now. Ask God to forgive you, to save you and to make you his child and give you eternal life. He always will do it if you ask. If you did either of those please tell me! I won't put it on the blog if you don't want me to, but I want to know!
Well, it sounds dark and depressing. Actually, it is. But, the good news is that this man didn't die in vain. He died for you! Imagine you on your worst day. Then, think he did it for me! I know I don't deserve it. None of us do. But, you ask, "Why? Why did he have to die for me?" Well, he died for you because he loved you. Now, think about this for a minute. Even if you have been in church your whole life (like me!) you won't lose the wonder, the joy, the peace. He loved you. Think about that. He won't ever leave you, he loves you, he died for you! Wow! He did that for me!? I really don't deserve it! But, what can we do to repay him? Well, we can't. Ever. But, we can love him and live for him with everything that we've got. Just think, he died for you! Can you surrender your life to him?
But, the best thing about this story is that Jesus didn't stay dead! No matter how many times I hear it, this story never loses the joy for me. Jesus really did die. And he stayed dead. But, he conquered death and the grave and rose again on the third day! Wow! You know, he did that for you too. Jesus loves you. Never forget that. No matter where you are, or what you are doing never forget that Jesus loves you. He died for you to save you, to rescue you. Can you give him yourself completely? Without holding anything back? He is waiting for you. You might be saved already, but you feel you haven't completely given it all to him. Do that now. Or you might not be saved. If not, do that now. Ask God to forgive you, to save you and to make you his child and give you eternal life. He always will do it if you ask. If you did either of those please tell me! I won't put it on the blog if you don't want me to, but I want to know!
Persecution
How many of you have experienced persecution? Well, most Christians have. It might be a death in your family or someone just rolling their eyes at you. If you have witnessed to people and are truly serving you will have. But, did you know that extreme persecution still happens today? I have been getting Voice of the Martyrs newsletter every month lately, and it really makes you think. I wonder what is like to have your parents killed, just because you attend church. I wonder how these people live. Quite honestly, I know the only thing that keeps them going is God. Their faith in him is such an example for me. So many times we take for granted the little things. These people are being beaten, cut, tormented, even killed just because they love Jesus. In some places there "concentration camps" of a sort. But, these places are just to torment people who believe in God. It is so sad that we can pray, worship, read the Bible, sing, and share our faith whenever we like, and these people can't do it at all. (Not to say that they don't) But, I think one of the most touching stories I heard was of one Chinese pastor. An American asked him how he could pray for him. The man replied to not pray for them, but pray for the church in America that it would grow, and see a revival. You see, the devil tries to scare people away from becoming Christians, but all he accomplishes is growing their church. But, the devil is running scared himself, that's why he persecutes Christians. We can change things. Maybe we need a little persecution to help us out. I hope it doesn't come to that. We need to pray for these people that they would have the courage to keep on. But, at the same time we need to learn from their examples.
PS By the way, here is The Voice of the Martyrs website address: www.persecution.com This is a ministry that is dedicated to God, and I strongly encourage you to subscribe to their newsletter.
PS By the way, here is The Voice of the Martyrs website address: www.persecution.com This is a ministry that is dedicated to God, and I strongly encourage you to subscribe to their newsletter.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
The Rebelution
You've probably heard a little bit about the Rebelution from me. But, I wanted to tell you more about them here. The Rebelutiuon is written by Alex and Brett Harris. They wanted a movement in our generation: a rebellion and a revoloution. (Hence, the Rebelution :) ) They want a rebellion against "the low expectations of our culture." They also want a revoloution to occur and for us to turn to Jesus. At present, the Rebelution is hosting a Modesty Survey. For more information on this, click on the flashing banner ad below. I highly reccomend going to the Rebelution, I know I have been blessed by it, and you might too. Here is the address (it's also in my links) www.therebelution.com. Please check this out, and see if you too can grow through it.
Daddy, There's Noise
This is a poem I got off the Rebelution forums. I read this poem and it really spoke to me about how weak and pitiful we are. Anways, Heidi M. wrote it. Here is the link to her website: http://www.xanga.com/a blessed servant. I highly encourage you to tell her if you like her poem.
Daddy, There’s Noise
by Heidi M.
Daddy, when I'm sick and weak, and all my strength has fled
Let me sit upon Your knee and hear the words You said
To listen as I hear Your smile within the gentle voice
Calling me to rest in You from all the outward noise.
Daddy, I am so confused, with all that's spinning 'round
I need Your hand to lift me up off what might be the ground.
Draw me closer, keep me near, oh, help me to hold true –
And so receive the strength I need from You to pull me through.
Daddy, why the struggles? Why the trials and the pain?
I try so hard to just press on and count each loss as gain
But I'm so tired and I know the battle's raging fierce
So please reach down, and let Your touch this worldly mindset pierce.
Daddy, I am sick and weak, and all my strength has fled
I am hugging tight my knees, all curled up on my bed.
Let me hear Your gentle smile within the whispered voice
And give me joy to bravely turn and face the outward noise.
Daddy, There’s Noise
by Heidi M.
Daddy, when I'm sick and weak, and all my strength has fled
Let me sit upon Your knee and hear the words You said
To listen as I hear Your smile within the gentle voice
Calling me to rest in You from all the outward noise.
Daddy, I am so confused, with all that's spinning 'round
I need Your hand to lift me up off what might be the ground.
Draw me closer, keep me near, oh, help me to hold true –
And so receive the strength I need from You to pull me through.
Daddy, why the struggles? Why the trials and the pain?
I try so hard to just press on and count each loss as gain
But I'm so tired and I know the battle's raging fierce
So please reach down, and let Your touch this worldly mindset pierce.
Daddy, I am sick and weak, and all my strength has fled
I am hugging tight my knees, all curled up on my bed.
Let me hear Your gentle smile within the whispered voice
And give me joy to bravely turn and face the outward noise.
Monday, February 05, 2007
It's All His? Then, Why the Chaos?
Well, yes I finally did brave it and change the template. I like this one too, and I needed to change some stuff on here. (note the music and new pictures!)
But, that's not what I posted for. Sometimes our live are so hectic. (Okay, for some of us, all the time!) Anyways, if we truly give our all to God, and surrender our lives to him, we need to actually do it. Surrendering your life shouldn't be a mere form in which you just say it and never do it. Surrending everything to God means surrending your time too. In that case, why should your life be so stressed. Now, please understand, I'm not saying this is an excuse. I'm saying if your time is God's it should change things. It might change the ways you spend your time, because if its God's it needs to glorify him. That is the reason our lives don't have to be hectic. Now, if you're like me, you're wondering how that will happen. Well, if your time is God's it means that you don't dictate it. But, I am not saying you can't have fun. In Proverbs it says that laughter is good medicine. (I guess I'm healthy then!) If you're having a good time you will laugh or smile. So, next time you're running out the door, where is your head? With God, or the next person you are going to see? If you have the latter, you need to focus in a bit more on God! If you have the former, great! I wish I was there. But, you gotta surrender to get there. Will you?
But, that's not what I posted for. Sometimes our live are so hectic. (Okay, for some of us, all the time!) Anyways, if we truly give our all to God, and surrender our lives to him, we need to actually do it. Surrendering your life shouldn't be a mere form in which you just say it and never do it. Surrending everything to God means surrending your time too. In that case, why should your life be so stressed. Now, please understand, I'm not saying this is an excuse. I'm saying if your time is God's it should change things. It might change the ways you spend your time, because if its God's it needs to glorify him. That is the reason our lives don't have to be hectic. Now, if you're like me, you're wondering how that will happen. Well, if your time is God's it means that you don't dictate it. But, I am not saying you can't have fun. In Proverbs it says that laughter is good medicine. (I guess I'm healthy then!) If you're having a good time you will laugh or smile. So, next time you're running out the door, where is your head? With God, or the next person you are going to see? If you have the latter, you need to focus in a bit more on God! If you have the former, great! I wish I was there. But, you gotta surrender to get there. Will you?
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Cooking Tip
Well, I guess you wouldn't really call this a tip. I would call it a something I do in the kitchen that isn't good but sometimes helps. Anyways, here it is:
Improvise!
If you ran out of cocoa grab a handful of mini chocolate chips to add to your cookies, cakes, and brownies. Or if you don't want the extra step of rolling cookies in sugar, simply coat your hands with powdered sugar when you make up the balls.
Have fun in the kitchen!
Improvise!
If you ran out of cocoa grab a handful of mini chocolate chips to add to your cookies, cakes, and brownies. Or if you don't want the extra step of rolling cookies in sugar, simply coat your hands with powdered sugar when you make up the balls.
Have fun in the kitchen!
Well...Let Me Pray About It!
As a side note: Sorry I haven't posted in so long. I guess I don't really have an excuse...
Anways, I think one of the most annoying things is when people say they will "pray about it". Please understand, I am not saying as in some cases, which you really do need to pray about. But, then there are the typical, "Would you care if I used the fellowship hall for -----" and the response, "I don't know. Let me pray about it."
That's a really well...ludicrous example, but it kinda shows my point. We use prayer so often as an excuse and nothing more.
But, there is another side to this story that I want to add. In the area of tithing, you need to pray about what to give. Maybe God wants you to give this much or that much, but all the same, you need to pray and ask him. Or maybe it is a life-changing decision, one that you will have to live with the consequences. Pray about it.
PS Another Note: Well, you know I posted another quote from the Two Towers. Well, I memorized it. :P
Anways, I think one of the most annoying things is when people say they will "pray about it". Please understand, I am not saying as in some cases, which you really do need to pray about. But, then there are the typical, "Would you care if I used the fellowship hall for -----" and the response, "I don't know. Let me pray about it."
That's a really well...ludicrous example, but it kinda shows my point. We use prayer so often as an excuse and nothing more.
But, there is another side to this story that I want to add. In the area of tithing, you need to pray about what to give. Maybe God wants you to give this much or that much, but all the same, you need to pray and ask him. Or maybe it is a life-changing decision, one that you will have to live with the consequences. Pray about it.
PS Another Note: Well, you know I posted another quote from the Two Towers. Well, I memorized it. :P
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Worship...The Radical Way (Part 5)
Well, by now you should have a slight understanding of worship. But, some might ask, "How do we worship?"
I believe that we worship because we want to glorify and enjoy God. God made us so that we could worship and adore him (among other reasons), and it is so sad that many people chose not to. So, glorify God, but where does the enjoying him part come in? Well, to glorify God we are telling him how great he is. To do this, we are rejoicing in how big and glorious our God is. We are enjoying him. Yes, I realize this is a just another way of saying Give Thanks, but it does make you think a bit more about it.
I believe that we worship because we want to glorify and enjoy God. God made us so that we could worship and adore him (among other reasons), and it is so sad that many people chose not to. So, glorify God, but where does the enjoying him part come in? Well, to glorify God we are telling him how great he is. To do this, we are rejoicing in how big and glorious our God is. We are enjoying him. Yes, I realize this is a just another way of saying Give Thanks, but it does make you think a bit more about it.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Another Awesome Quote (Yes, it is from the Two Towers)
"It's like in the great stories, Mr. Frodo. The ones that really mattered. Full of darkness and danger they were. And sometimes you didn't want to know the end. Because how could it be happy? How could the world go back to the way it was when so much bad had happened?...But in the end, it's only a passing thing, this shadow. Even darkness must pass. A new day will come. And when the sun shines it will shine out the clearer. Those were the stories that stayed with you. That meant something. Even if you were too small to understand why. But, I think, Mr. Frodo, I do understand. I know now. Folk in those stories had lots of chances of turning back, only they didn't. Becuase they were holding on to something...There's some good in this world, Mr. Frodo. And it's worth fighting for.
- Sam Gamgee, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Yes, I do realize I have posted about part of this before. (See An Awesome Quote) But, not all of it. And I think I can pull yet another meaning from this quote. Sam was saying this to Frodo and from their point of view everything was going from bad to worse.
Sam asks how the world can go back to normal after so much bad had happened. That is so true for our country. We are (I believe) in the end times. If you don't believe me, study end times prophecy and then look in the newspaper or turn on the TV. But, he says later that this shadow is something that will pass. I totally believe this! Even if this old world doesn't get any better, we still have a life in heaven to look forward to. (If you are saved) I wrote before how we need to go to war. But, after we go to war, we have to keep going. We can't turn back, we have to keep going. So, we go to war and perservere. Think of all the stories where people were victorious only when they kept going. We have to be like that. We need to keep going even when it is hard. Don't turn back. Don't look down, look up.
- Sam Gamgee, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Yes, I do realize I have posted about part of this before. (See An Awesome Quote) But, not all of it. And I think I can pull yet another meaning from this quote. Sam was saying this to Frodo and from their point of view everything was going from bad to worse.
Sam asks how the world can go back to normal after so much bad had happened. That is so true for our country. We are (I believe) in the end times. If you don't believe me, study end times prophecy and then look in the newspaper or turn on the TV. But, he says later that this shadow is something that will pass. I totally believe this! Even if this old world doesn't get any better, we still have a life in heaven to look forward to. (If you are saved) I wrote before how we need to go to war. But, after we go to war, we have to keep going. We can't turn back, we have to keep going. So, we go to war and perservere. Think of all the stories where people were victorious only when they kept going. We have to be like that. We need to keep going even when it is hard. Don't turn back. Don't look down, look up.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Worship...The Radical Way (Part 4)
Where do we worship? Well, traditionally we think church. But, I am here to present a life changing idea! What if we worshipped outside of church? Would the earth be consumed in fire becuase we dared to do such a thing? (pardon the sarcasm) Seriously, though so many people walk out of church and don't think about worshipping for another week. We need to have daily consistent worship.
I wrote before of worshipping in a grocery store. That is a fairly ludicrous example, but in one way it is true. Sometimes the best part of excercise is that you can worship while doing it. Remember, worship is simply living for God in an extreme way. You can live for God anywhere! Think about what this means. Does this mean changing your lifestyle so you can live worship? Well, I know it is a long proccess. But, while we can never be perfect, we can be striving for it.
There is a song (I don't know who wrote it or what it is called.)
The end of it goes like this:
I'm here to meet with you/
So come and meet with me
I really think that that is cool from God's perspective. He wants us to meet with him (worship), whenever and wherever. He is asking you.
PS I really don't stay on subject. Oh well, maybe God can use that in some way too. :P
I wrote before of worshipping in a grocery store. That is a fairly ludicrous example, but in one way it is true. Sometimes the best part of excercise is that you can worship while doing it. Remember, worship is simply living for God in an extreme way. You can live for God anywhere! Think about what this means. Does this mean changing your lifestyle so you can live worship? Well, I know it is a long proccess. But, while we can never be perfect, we can be striving for it.
There is a song (I don't know who wrote it or what it is called.)
The end of it goes like this:
I'm here to meet with you/
So come and meet with me
I really think that that is cool from God's perspective. He wants us to meet with him (worship), whenever and wherever. He is asking you.
PS I really don't stay on subject. Oh well, maybe God can use that in some way too. :P
Worship...The Radical Way (Part 3)
Okay, well we've talked a little about worship. Trust me, there is so much we won't even get into!
You'll notice we aren't talking just about worship. We are talking about radical worship! Radical worship means giving everything up to God. If the Spirit leads you to kneel in the grocery market, and belt out a song, that is great. Just do the Spirit tells you. Now, I am not speaking of speaking in tongues and all that. Speaking in tongues still exists. Some missionarys will share Christ with people who know nothing of their language, and they will still know and understand what they are saying! (Isn't our God great?) But, just blabbering and all that, well, I just don't beleive in it. Sorry if that offends, but I hope you will keep reading anyways.
Radical worship is not thinking of what the person next to you will think if you close your eyes and raise your hands. It is doing what God wants you to do, be it to raise your hands or stand there quietly.
To truly worship radically we must be in complete surrender to God. We need to be right with God. Now, I am not saying we can't worship with that little tiny sin in our lives. (actually no sin is little so...) But, I don't think we are going to experience quite the presence of God we might if we had confessed it. I also don't think we can live up to what God wants us to be if we are living in sin.
By now you're saying, "Okay, but what is the difference? I can't see any differences in what you pointed out so far."
Radical worship means jumping out of the boat of tradition to follow God. (to quote Beth Moore) Like in the Bible story where Peter jumps out of the boat to go to Jesus. We have to jump, trust and don't look down.That is part of some people's problem in worship. I have done it soo many times. We are really experiencing God, and then we look around and no one else seems to be having the same experience. We immediately drop our eyes and don't really worship for the rest of the time. We have to keep our eyes on God. If our focus is God and on him being first, we can truly experience radical worship.
You'll notice we aren't talking just about worship. We are talking about radical worship! Radical worship means giving everything up to God. If the Spirit leads you to kneel in the grocery market, and belt out a song, that is great. Just do the Spirit tells you. Now, I am not speaking of speaking in tongues and all that. Speaking in tongues still exists. Some missionarys will share Christ with people who know nothing of their language, and they will still know and understand what they are saying! (Isn't our God great?) But, just blabbering and all that, well, I just don't beleive in it. Sorry if that offends, but I hope you will keep reading anyways.
Radical worship is not thinking of what the person next to you will think if you close your eyes and raise your hands. It is doing what God wants you to do, be it to raise your hands or stand there quietly.
To truly worship radically we must be in complete surrender to God. We need to be right with God. Now, I am not saying we can't worship with that little tiny sin in our lives. (actually no sin is little so...) But, I don't think we are going to experience quite the presence of God we might if we had confessed it. I also don't think we can live up to what God wants us to be if we are living in sin.
By now you're saying, "Okay, but what is the difference? I can't see any differences in what you pointed out so far."
Radical worship means jumping out of the boat of tradition to follow God. (to quote Beth Moore) Like in the Bible story where Peter jumps out of the boat to go to Jesus. We have to jump, trust and don't look down.That is part of some people's problem in worship. I have done it soo many times. We are really experiencing God, and then we look around and no one else seems to be having the same experience. We immediately drop our eyes and don't really worship for the rest of the time. We have to keep our eyes on God. If our focus is God and on him being first, we can truly experience radical worship.
Monday, January 22, 2007
What If
Yes, yes, yes, I realize this has nothing to do with worship. But, I'll simply take a break from that and resume it tomorrow...or later this afternoon. Anyways we got this song of the "Wow Hits 2007" I think, and it is really really really good. You might have to read it twice to really get it, but I'll explain it at the end.
What If
by Nichole Nordeman
What if you’re right?
And he was just another nice guy
What if you’re right?What if it’s true?
They say the cross will only make a fool of you
And what if it’s true?
What if he takes his palace in history
With all the prophets and the kings
Who taught us love and came in peaceB
ut then the story ends
What then?
(Chorus)
But what if you’re wrong?
What if there’s more?
What if there’s hope you never dreamed of hoping for?
What if you jump?
And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by surprise?
What if He’s more than enough?
What if it’s love?
What if you dig,What if you dig
Way down deeper than your simple-minded friends
What if you dig? What if you find
A thousand more unanswered questions inside
That’s all you find
What if you pick apart the logic
And begin to poke the holes
What if the crown of thorns is no more
Then folklore that must be told and retold
(Chorus)
What if you're wrong?
What if there's more?
What if there's hope never dreamed of hoping for?
What if you jump? And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by suprise?
What if He's more than enough? What if it's love?
You’ve been running as fast as you can
You’ve been looking for a place you can land so long
But what if you’re wrong?
What if you jump? And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by surprise?
What if He’s more than enough? What if it’s love?
Ok well, that is really cool but hearing the song is even better. Anyways, Nichole Nordeman said that she actually wrote this for a lost friend. I can see how it would be effective. She intentionally asks herself "What if I'm wrong?" and then answers herself with "What if you're wrong?". I thought that this was a very thought provoking song. (hahaha)
But, seriously, I thought that we do need to question our beliefs. Now, please don't misunderstand. We need to ask ourselves why we believe what we do, and is it really right.
Please, please, please, don't think I am not saying that we shouldn't just trust the Bible. We need to trust God, becuase that is faith. But, I think so many times we just do things or say things because that is the way we always thought or did them.
But, we also have the caution of not being suspicious of everything we should hear. James 1:19 says: Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.
Now, in relation to this I think it is saying we need to listen to other's beliefs, think about them and then try to answer them logically with scripture. (Like the person in the song, she is talking to!)
Well, I hope you got something out of this post. You can look tomorrow for something about worship.
What If
by Nichole Nordeman
What if you’re right?
And he was just another nice guy
What if you’re right?What if it’s true?
They say the cross will only make a fool of you
And what if it’s true?
What if he takes his palace in history
With all the prophets and the kings
Who taught us love and came in peaceB
ut then the story ends
What then?
(Chorus)
But what if you’re wrong?
What if there’s more?
What if there’s hope you never dreamed of hoping for?
What if you jump?
And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by surprise?
What if He’s more than enough?
What if it’s love?
What if you dig,What if you dig
Way down deeper than your simple-minded friends
What if you dig? What if you find
A thousand more unanswered questions inside
That’s all you find
What if you pick apart the logic
And begin to poke the holes
What if the crown of thorns is no more
Then folklore that must be told and retold
(Chorus)
What if you're wrong?
What if there's more?
What if there's hope never dreamed of hoping for?
What if you jump? And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by suprise?
What if He's more than enough? What if it's love?
You’ve been running as fast as you can
You’ve been looking for a place you can land so long
But what if you’re wrong?
What if you jump? And just close your eyes?
What if the arms that catch you, catch you by surprise?
What if He’s more than enough? What if it’s love?
Ok well, that is really cool but hearing the song is even better. Anyways, Nichole Nordeman said that she actually wrote this for a lost friend. I can see how it would be effective. She intentionally asks herself "What if I'm wrong?" and then answers herself with "What if you're wrong?". I thought that this was a very thought provoking song. (hahaha)
But, seriously, I thought that we do need to question our beliefs. Now, please don't misunderstand. We need to ask ourselves why we believe what we do, and is it really right.
Please, please, please, don't think I am not saying that we shouldn't just trust the Bible. We need to trust God, becuase that is faith. But, I think so many times we just do things or say things because that is the way we always thought or did them.
But, we also have the caution of not being suspicious of everything we should hear. James 1:19 says: Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.
Now, in relation to this I think it is saying we need to listen to other's beliefs, think about them and then try to answer them logically with scripture. (Like the person in the song, she is talking to!)
Well, I hope you got something out of this post. You can look tomorrow for something about worship.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Worship...The Radical Way (Part 1)
Okay, well before I see eyebrows going up and people wondering about my sanity. (trust me, people do!)...Here is the basic idea for this series. I am going to show (from scripture) how God has defined worship and how we should do it. Now, this isn't going to be a "just sing songs and close your eyes" series. That part is up to you. Some people don't raise their hands in worship. They just don't. That is okay with me. I am simply going to try to boost your understanding of worship.
Here is the first question I need to answer. "What is worship? You mean when we sing three hymns in church and then sit?"
Well, worship is definitely not just singing. It is a lifestyle. I puzzled over this one for months, before it hit me over the head. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." If you really do everything for God's glory, you don't have to read to the end of this post. If you aren't, you might keep going. Doing everything for God is living worship. It never stops. Now, in heaven I firmly believe that worship will be 24/7. No matter what we are doing. If we are bowing before the throne, and singing praises or if we are cleaning up our mansions. We will be doing it for God. There should be no other desire, but on earth there is. We have the urge to impress this friend, make this person feel good, etc. etc. etc.
We need to worship God. We need to do it constantly and consistently. But how? Well, we need to have our hearts right. We need to not have sins in our lives. We need to be giving God the glory and credit for everything good that happens or is given to us. Will we fail? Yes. We aren't perfect, in fact are very very far from it. But, we cannot have that as an excuse. I believe that God is pleased with me, when I am right with him, don't have any unconfessed sin in my life, and am taking every breath just to worship him.
Now, there are many many more areas of worship I hope to explore, but I can never hope that I will cover every area. There is just too much stuff to cover and things to say.
PS If you have any questions, comment them and I will address them soon.
Here is the first question I need to answer. "What is worship? You mean when we sing three hymns in church and then sit?"
Well, worship is definitely not just singing. It is a lifestyle. I puzzled over this one for months, before it hit me over the head. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." If you really do everything for God's glory, you don't have to read to the end of this post. If you aren't, you might keep going. Doing everything for God is living worship. It never stops. Now, in heaven I firmly believe that worship will be 24/7. No matter what we are doing. If we are bowing before the throne, and singing praises or if we are cleaning up our mansions. We will be doing it for God. There should be no other desire, but on earth there is. We have the urge to impress this friend, make this person feel good, etc. etc. etc.
We need to worship God. We need to do it constantly and consistently. But how? Well, we need to have our hearts right. We need to not have sins in our lives. We need to be giving God the glory and credit for everything good that happens or is given to us. Will we fail? Yes. We aren't perfect, in fact are very very far from it. But, we cannot have that as an excuse. I believe that God is pleased with me, when I am right with him, don't have any unconfessed sin in my life, and am taking every breath just to worship him.
Now, there are many many more areas of worship I hope to explore, but I can never hope that I will cover every area. There is just too much stuff to cover and things to say.
PS If you have any questions, comment them and I will address them soon.
Friday, January 19, 2007
**Note**: ATTENTION ALL READERS!
Peoples,
I am going to try to do a mini-series on worship soon. I think that this would be beneficial for all, and I think that it would be an interesting subject. Please ask any questions and I will attempt to answer any and all quesitons. Any verses about it would also be appreciated. Thanks!
Today is Friday!/Saturday just stay away!- A song by the Ws (Don't know the name. I am not sure of the band name either)
I am going to try to do a mini-series on worship soon. I think that this would be beneficial for all, and I think that it would be an interesting subject. Please ask any questions and I will attempt to answer any and all quesitons. Any verses about it would also be appreciated. Thanks!
Today is Friday!/Saturday just stay away!- A song by the Ws (Don't know the name. I am not sure of the band name either)
A Little Bit More on My Testimony (So Long Self)
Yeah I know you are probably frustrated but I think that this is an important lesson, that I have had to learn. Hopefully by reading this you won't have to learn it the hard way.
I wrote in my testimony this: "On Thursday night, Bro. Shannon Caudle was preaching. When he asked us to come forward if we wanted to be saved, I wanted to so bad. But, come on! I was a pastor's daughter! Besides, everyone already thought I was saved!"
Well, I think that the words in bold are really sad. You see, everyone at our church thought I was saved. Even my parents. Not even my best friend knew I wasn't. I wasn't (am not to this day) the kind of person who just spills everything. I hold (almost all) all of my little secrets close. My problem was though, that I was proud. I was a PK (pastor's kid)! What would people think of me?! What could I be thinking?! That was basically what the Devil tried so hard to tell me. My pride rebelled at the thought of people thinking that I wasn't saved before. Yet, I went. Really it was pride that told me that I should fake getting saved in the first place. I was proud because one of my older brothers got saved when he was five, so why shouldn't I?
"Well, the only problem there was I didn't understand what I needed to understand and I really hadn't gotten saved." I am not banging on early life conversions. My oldest brother got saved when he was five. My older brother's was real. It simply was, mine wasn't. But, back to the pride thing. I am (to this day) still very self conscious about me. That isn't as much pride as embarassment, but I still need to get out of it. Self-consciousness that night almost prevented me from getting saved. Never let embarassment shape your life. But, pride is a battle everyone has to face daily. So many things have happened in history simply becuase of pride. It has destroyed many people's lives. Everyone has to battle it. I have to face it daily. (Because, gues what? I'm certaintly not perfect) Being humble (the opposite of being prideful) means giving up rights to me, myself and I. Think about what that would mean for you. It is a long and uphill battle. But the rewards in heaven will be worth it all. I just want to hear God say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." That's it. Sure I'd like a mansion, and harp lessons wouldn't be bad. (just kidding) But, that isn't what I should be living for. I need to live humbly before my God. (Micah 6:8)
So long self/well it's been fun/but I've found somebody else/so long self/there's just no room for two/so you are going to have to move- MercyMe "So Long Self"
PS This really wasn't just "A Little Bit More on My Testimony" was it? :P Oh well.
PSS I don't stay on task real well, do I? :)
I wrote in my testimony this: "On Thursday night, Bro. Shannon Caudle was preaching. When he asked us to come forward if we wanted to be saved, I wanted to so bad. But, come on! I was a pastor's daughter! Besides, everyone already thought I was saved!"
Well, I think that the words in bold are really sad. You see, everyone at our church thought I was saved. Even my parents. Not even my best friend knew I wasn't. I wasn't (am not to this day) the kind of person who just spills everything. I hold (almost all) all of my little secrets close. My problem was though, that I was proud. I was a PK (pastor's kid)! What would people think of me?! What could I be thinking?! That was basically what the Devil tried so hard to tell me. My pride rebelled at the thought of people thinking that I wasn't saved before. Yet, I went. Really it was pride that told me that I should fake getting saved in the first place. I was proud because one of my older brothers got saved when he was five, so why shouldn't I?
"Well, the only problem there was I didn't understand what I needed to understand and I really hadn't gotten saved." I am not banging on early life conversions. My oldest brother got saved when he was five. My older brother's was real. It simply was, mine wasn't. But, back to the pride thing. I am (to this day) still very self conscious about me. That isn't as much pride as embarassment, but I still need to get out of it. Self-consciousness that night almost prevented me from getting saved. Never let embarassment shape your life. But, pride is a battle everyone has to face daily. So many things have happened in history simply becuase of pride. It has destroyed many people's lives. Everyone has to battle it. I have to face it daily. (Because, gues what? I'm certaintly not perfect) Being humble (the opposite of being prideful) means giving up rights to me, myself and I. Think about what that would mean for you. It is a long and uphill battle. But the rewards in heaven will be worth it all. I just want to hear God say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." That's it. Sure I'd like a mansion, and harp lessons wouldn't be bad. (just kidding) But, that isn't what I should be living for. I need to live humbly before my God. (Micah 6:8)
So long self/well it's been fun/but I've found somebody else/so long self/there's just no room for two/so you are going to have to move- MercyMe "So Long Self"
PS This really wasn't just "A Little Bit More on My Testimony" was it? :P Oh well.
PSS I don't stay on task real well, do I? :)
Prayer (part 3)
This is kinda cool. Before I put down my thoughts, here is an idea. I don't think it is wise to ever simply accept something someone says as true. We should always always hold it up to scripture and see if it measures up. Anyways, I think (maybe) that this is the last installment on my short series on prayer.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer works. Throughout history we have seen the power of prayer. The colony of Plymouth survived soley becuase of God answering their fervent petitions. During the Reveloutionary War the power of prayer was shown time and time again. The fight for Civil Rights in Alabama was another time when prayer was shown to work wonders.
In the New England colony of Plymouth prayer was not just a privelege, it was a necessary to survive.When the Pilgrims had first arrived the indians had come to spy on them. The Pilgrims could not leave the fort to gather food, fish, or even hunt without getting shot. They prayed for deliverance and finally the indians left them alone. The colony was in dire need time and time again, yet God showed himself after they prayed. They were in the middle of winter and near starving. The thin preacher kept teaching, and they prayed fervently for God’s will to be done. Their prayer was answered when Squanto came to teach them to plant, gather, and hunt.
Prayer was instrumental in the fight for independence. During the Reveloutionary War it was not an unusual occurrence to find George Washington on his kness. While at Valley Forge, Isaac Potts, his hots, found him on his knees in the woods with tears streaming down his face. Many believe that fervent prayer was the only reason we succeeded in winning the war.
During the fight for civil rights in Alabama, the first thing Martin Luther King Jr. did after declaring the boycott was hold a church service. King held firmly to his beliefs and supported the boycott with prayer. The church services were overflowing during the boycott as people asked
God to help them to be free from prejudice.
Prayer has been instrumental in the shaping of our nation’s history. Historically proven, prayer has shown it’s power. The colony of Plymouth, the Reveloutionary War, and the civil right movement in Alambama are wonderful examples of the power of prayer and what it can do.
I actually wrote this for an anylitical essay for school, but thought that it would go with this. God is still showing himself today through prayer. We can change the world. But to win, we have to surrender and get on our knees.
So you want to change the world?/What are you waiting for?/Say you gonna start right now?/ What are you waiting for?/It only takes one voice/So come on now/And shout it out/Give a little more/What are you waiting for?- Natalie Grant song "What are You Waiting For?"
So we can change the world now, we just need to pray. What are you waiting for?
The Power of Prayer
Prayer works. Throughout history we have seen the power of prayer. The colony of Plymouth survived soley becuase of God answering their fervent petitions. During the Reveloutionary War the power of prayer was shown time and time again. The fight for Civil Rights in Alabama was another time when prayer was shown to work wonders.
In the New England colony of Plymouth prayer was not just a privelege, it was a necessary to survive.When the Pilgrims had first arrived the indians had come to spy on them. The Pilgrims could not leave the fort to gather food, fish, or even hunt without getting shot. They prayed for deliverance and finally the indians left them alone. The colony was in dire need time and time again, yet God showed himself after they prayed. They were in the middle of winter and near starving. The thin preacher kept teaching, and they prayed fervently for God’s will to be done. Their prayer was answered when Squanto came to teach them to plant, gather, and hunt.
Prayer was instrumental in the fight for independence. During the Reveloutionary War it was not an unusual occurrence to find George Washington on his kness. While at Valley Forge, Isaac Potts, his hots, found him on his knees in the woods with tears streaming down his face. Many believe that fervent prayer was the only reason we succeeded in winning the war.
During the fight for civil rights in Alabama, the first thing Martin Luther King Jr. did after declaring the boycott was hold a church service. King held firmly to his beliefs and supported the boycott with prayer. The church services were overflowing during the boycott as people asked
God to help them to be free from prejudice.
Prayer has been instrumental in the shaping of our nation’s history. Historically proven, prayer has shown it’s power. The colony of Plymouth, the Reveloutionary War, and the civil right movement in Alambama are wonderful examples of the power of prayer and what it can do.
I actually wrote this for an anylitical essay for school, but thought that it would go with this. God is still showing himself today through prayer. We can change the world. But to win, we have to surrender and get on our knees.
So you want to change the world?/What are you waiting for?/Say you gonna start right now?/ What are you waiting for?/It only takes one voice/So come on now/And shout it out/Give a little more/What are you waiting for?- Natalie Grant song "What are You Waiting For?"
So we can change the world now, we just need to pray. What are you waiting for?
Thursday, January 18, 2007
My Testimony
Well, I thought that it would be interesting to share my testimony with you all.
I have been in church my whole life. I think I've attended steadily since I was two weeks old. :) Church is kind of like a second home to me. Anyways, we had a service on July 4 one year. I was four or five and I thought "Hey! It would make Daddy happy if I told him I got saved!" So I did. I told my parents and brothers I had gotten saved. I even got baptized! Well, the only problem there was I didn't understand what I needed to understand and I really hadn't gotten saved. Three or four years later we were at Kid's Camp. I wasn't old enough to be there but, Daddy is a pastor so we all went. (he was a counselor and we got a cabin) On Thursday night, Bro. Shannon Caudle was preaching. When he asked us to come forward if we wanted to be saved, I wanted to so bad. But, come on! I was a pastor's daughter! Besides, everyone already thought I was saved! But, I went. I knew God wanted me, so I went. I went with another counselor, but he didn't understand what I was trying to say, so I went and talked with my Mom. She talked to me, and prayed with me. I remember afterwards going to meet up with the rest of our group and being so exicted. I didn't even know some of these people, but I told them I got saved anyways!
I think that one of the most memorable things about getting saved is the joy. I wish I still had that, and to some extent I do. But, we can't expect our joy to just remain forever. You have to ask God and seek him and you will find joy as you do.
I have been in church my whole life. I think I've attended steadily since I was two weeks old. :) Church is kind of like a second home to me. Anyways, we had a service on July 4 one year. I was four or five and I thought "Hey! It would make Daddy happy if I told him I got saved!" So I did. I told my parents and brothers I had gotten saved. I even got baptized! Well, the only problem there was I didn't understand what I needed to understand and I really hadn't gotten saved. Three or four years later we were at Kid's Camp. I wasn't old enough to be there but, Daddy is a pastor so we all went. (he was a counselor and we got a cabin) On Thursday night, Bro. Shannon Caudle was preaching. When he asked us to come forward if we wanted to be saved, I wanted to so bad. But, come on! I was a pastor's daughter! Besides, everyone already thought I was saved! But, I went. I knew God wanted me, so I went. I went with another counselor, but he didn't understand what I was trying to say, so I went and talked with my Mom. She talked to me, and prayed with me. I remember afterwards going to meet up with the rest of our group and being so exicted. I didn't even know some of these people, but I told them I got saved anyways!
I think that one of the most memorable things about getting saved is the joy. I wish I still had that, and to some extent I do. But, we can't expect our joy to just remain forever. You have to ask God and seek him and you will find joy as you do.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Here's the Homemaking Part!
Well, I haven't succeeded very well in this area yet, but I will try! Here is a recipe for the most delicious brownies. Can you say chocolate? I love it!~
Chocolate Brownie Delights
2 cups sugar
1 cup margarine or butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa
1 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix sugar, butter, vanilla, and eggs. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spread in a greased 9" x 13" pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes; be careful not to overcook. Immediately cover with aluminum foil to keep cookies moist. Cool completely.
Note: This recipe is not original. It was taken from the amie's Greatest Cookies.
Taste and see that the Lord is good! (Psalm 34:8a)
Chocolate Brownie Delights
2 cups sugar
1 cup margarine or butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa
1 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix sugar, butter, vanilla, and eggs. Stir in remaining ingredients. Spread in a greased 9" x 13" pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes; be careful not to overcook. Immediately cover with aluminum foil to keep cookies moist. Cool completely.
Note: This recipe is not original. It was taken from the amie's Greatest Cookies.
Taste and see that the Lord is good! (Psalm 34:8a)
Prayer (part 2)
Okay well, I didn't get to say everything I wanted to say last time, so here is more. (I felt that all of this in one post would be overwhelming)
Pray with confidence (1 John 5:14). God hears us! Don't beat around the bush, just ask. God wants to talk with us, we just simply push him away so many times.
Pray God's will. (Luke 22:42) Jesus prayed in the garden "Thy will not my will" and he truly meant it! He did what wasn't his preference so God could have his. He prayed that the cup would pass from him, but he knew it was the only way so he did it anyway.
Pray in humility. (2 Chronicles 7:14) This is a very common scripture (we quote it a ton) yet, very few people actually heed it and do it. I think all of us could improve there.
Pray and believe! (Matthew 21:22) You will recieve. Now, this is not talking about a 2007 Convertible or something like that. It is talking about an honest desire that is God's desire as well as your's. (Psalm 37:4) And just a note on the last verse. If we truly delight ourselves with God, that will be the desire of your heart! Cool, huh?
Anyways, the whole of this boils down to salvation. If you aren't saved all these ways to pray aren't going to help you a bit! Jesus loves you and died for you. But, God is not a sissie. He is just, and if you don't accept him you are in danger of hell! No, it isn't cruel. God really does love you, He wants you, but we push him away so often. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. But, don't think for a minute that God's gift of eternal life comes without a price. You just don't have to pay that price. Jesus died for you. He payed that price. He knows everything about you and is longing to see you as his child. Accept him into your life. Today is the day of salvation! We aren't guranteed another day. Don't think you will accept him tomorrow. Do it today! Just pray a simple prayer. (Now, please understand, the prayer isn't what saves you, believing that Jesus died and rose again does)
Jesus,
I know you died for me even though I don't deserve it. Please forgive me of my sins. I know you rose from the dead and are offering eternal life to me as a free gift. I accept your gift. Come into my life and make me your child. Forgive me for pushing you away before. Thank you for giving me eternal life with you in Heaven. Amen.
Did you pray that prayer? Did you mean it? If you did comment me (I won't publish it if you don't want me to) and tell me. If you really meant it then you need to grown in Christ. You need to get in church and talk to the pastor about your decision to follow Christ. You also need to confess your new faith by being baptized.
Pray with confidence (1 John 5:14). God hears us! Don't beat around the bush, just ask. God wants to talk with us, we just simply push him away so many times.
Pray God's will. (Luke 22:42) Jesus prayed in the garden "Thy will not my will" and he truly meant it! He did what wasn't his preference so God could have his. He prayed that the cup would pass from him, but he knew it was the only way so he did it anyway.
Pray in humility. (2 Chronicles 7:14) This is a very common scripture (we quote it a ton) yet, very few people actually heed it and do it. I think all of us could improve there.
Pray and believe! (Matthew 21:22) You will recieve. Now, this is not talking about a 2007 Convertible or something like that. It is talking about an honest desire that is God's desire as well as your's. (Psalm 37:4) And just a note on the last verse. If we truly delight ourselves with God, that will be the desire of your heart! Cool, huh?
Anyways, the whole of this boils down to salvation. If you aren't saved all these ways to pray aren't going to help you a bit! Jesus loves you and died for you. But, God is not a sissie. He is just, and if you don't accept him you are in danger of hell! No, it isn't cruel. God really does love you, He wants you, but we push him away so often. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved. But, don't think for a minute that God's gift of eternal life comes without a price. You just don't have to pay that price. Jesus died for you. He payed that price. He knows everything about you and is longing to see you as his child. Accept him into your life. Today is the day of salvation! We aren't guranteed another day. Don't think you will accept him tomorrow. Do it today! Just pray a simple prayer. (Now, please understand, the prayer isn't what saves you, believing that Jesus died and rose again does)
Jesus,
I know you died for me even though I don't deserve it. Please forgive me of my sins. I know you rose from the dead and are offering eternal life to me as a free gift. I accept your gift. Come into my life and make me your child. Forgive me for pushing you away before. Thank you for giving me eternal life with you in Heaven. Amen.
Did you pray that prayer? Did you mean it? If you did comment me (I won't publish it if you don't want me to) and tell me. If you really meant it then you need to grown in Christ. You need to get in church and talk to the pastor about your decision to follow Christ. You also need to confess your new faith by being baptized.
Prayer (part1)
I have to say first of that I haven't been posting near as often as I need to! Well here is my latest contribution:
Prayer is a conversation with the one person who loves you like no one else can. God! There are
some ways we do need to pray though.
First, we need to pray in the Holy Spirit. (Jude 1:20)(note: please don't take me at my word. ]
Look up the scriptures!)
We need to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). And hold on one second. The immediate thought you get is: WHAT? How can I pray all the time?! Well, before you have a nervous breakdown, think of it this way. You don't have to close your eyes to pray or even bow your head. If you are driving I definitely hope you don't! But, prayer is spontaneous, it isn't a planned time. You don't say "Okay, God. I am going to pray at 3:00 pm to 3:09 pm. Not one second more, not one second less." Well, prayer is (at least should be) spontaneous. Its fine to pray before bedtime, but don't limit yourself on time. Just pour out your heart, and take no regard of time.
Anyways next is Pray in faith (Hebrews 10:22). We have to have faith. First off that we aren't praying to air. Come on! That does take faith, believe it or not. :) And second of all that God will hear and answer our prayers. The next three are in the same scripture reference. We pray in the Holy of Holies. We have to be "clean" (confessed up to other people) before we can feel like God has forgiven us. Let me clarify, God forgave us, but that person didn't. To be truly forgiven we need to ask that person's forgiveness too. Next, we have one mediator. If we aren't saved, Jesus isn't in our heart, and is not interceding for us. Jesus is necessary for prayer.
Forgiveness is the key; we have to be forgiven and we must also forgive. (Matthew 6:12) We must forgive others, and consider "the slate wiped clean".
Seek God face when you pray. If you look for God you will find him. (Jeremiah 29:13)
The next is just a saying: Chase after Jesus. To truly do this you must do it with all your effort. It isn't a task, do it with joy! Use all your talents, and chase him completely. Hold nothing back. Don't walk, RUN!
**Note**: If you have any questions or items you think I have either stated incorrectly or are not right, please comment me, and I will get back with you privately.
Prayer is a conversation with the one person who loves you like no one else can. God! There are
some ways we do need to pray though.
First, we need to pray in the Holy Spirit. (Jude 1:20)(note: please don't take me at my word. ]
Look up the scriptures!)
We need to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). And hold on one second. The immediate thought you get is: WHAT? How can I pray all the time?! Well, before you have a nervous breakdown, think of it this way. You don't have to close your eyes to pray or even bow your head. If you are driving I definitely hope you don't! But, prayer is spontaneous, it isn't a planned time. You don't say "Okay, God. I am going to pray at 3:00 pm to 3:09 pm. Not one second more, not one second less." Well, prayer is (at least should be) spontaneous. Its fine to pray before bedtime, but don't limit yourself on time. Just pour out your heart, and take no regard of time.
Anyways next is Pray in faith (Hebrews 10:22). We have to have faith. First off that we aren't praying to air. Come on! That does take faith, believe it or not. :) And second of all that God will hear and answer our prayers. The next three are in the same scripture reference. We pray in the Holy of Holies. We have to be "clean" (confessed up to other people) before we can feel like God has forgiven us. Let me clarify, God forgave us, but that person didn't. To be truly forgiven we need to ask that person's forgiveness too. Next, we have one mediator. If we aren't saved, Jesus isn't in our heart, and is not interceding for us. Jesus is necessary for prayer.
Forgiveness is the key; we have to be forgiven and we must also forgive. (Matthew 6:12) We must forgive others, and consider "the slate wiped clean".
Seek God face when you pray. If you look for God you will find him. (Jeremiah 29:13)
The next is just a saying: Chase after Jesus. To truly do this you must do it with all your effort. It isn't a task, do it with joy! Use all your talents, and chase him completely. Hold nothing back. Don't walk, RUN!
**Note**: If you have any questions or items you think I have either stated incorrectly or are not right, please comment me, and I will get back with you privately.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
The Rebelution's Modesty Survey
Hi! Anyways, the Rebelution's Modesty Survey is launched. For all the guys, please take it! For all the girls, go look at it!
The Rebelution is the blog of Alex and Brett Harris (little brothers of Joshua Harris). They launched this survey so girls can know what causes their brothers in Christ to stumble.
:)
The Rebelution is the blog of Alex and Brett Harris (little brothers of Joshua Harris). They launched this survey so girls can know what causes their brothers in Christ to stumble.
:)
Happy Birthday!
Tomorrow is my dear older brother's birthday (not the oldest one, next one)! Happy 16th Birthday D!!!!!!!!!!
PS For all you drivers out there, you need to look out tomorrow.
PS For all you drivers out there, you need to look out tomorrow.
Math makes its way into Bible study
How come math follows me everywhere I go?!?!?!? Okay well anyways we were in church Wednesday night and Dusty (our youth pastor) was talking about a scripture. Anyways the gist of it is this:
With Christ= Life
Without Christ= Death
Well, I am sitting here and thinking "Hey! That's kinda like a formula in math!" (Give me a break, I was tired :P). So, basically if you don't have Christ you don't have life. It's really that simple. If you don't have Christ, you aren't alive. But, understand this, I am NOT contesting the fact that you are living and breathing. I am saying that you aren't alive spiritually. In one of her songs Rebecca St. James says "You make me come alive/you make me come alive..." and it is so true. Without God we can't live! So, are living today or are you just pretending?
If you aren't living and want to, click on the "Ready?" button on the sidebar.
With Christ= Life
Without Christ= Death
Well, I am sitting here and thinking "Hey! That's kinda like a formula in math!" (Give me a break, I was tired :P). So, basically if you don't have Christ you don't have life. It's really that simple. If you don't have Christ, you aren't alive. But, understand this, I am NOT contesting the fact that you are living and breathing. I am saying that you aren't alive spiritually. In one of her songs Rebecca St. James says "You make me come alive/you make me come alive..." and it is so true. Without God we can't live! So, are living today or are you just pretending?
If you aren't living and want to, click on the "Ready?" button on the sidebar.
Friday, January 05, 2007
School and Stuff Like That...
Well, we went back to school this week. I guess I never realized how much I really really really disliked getting up in the morning till this week. :( But as Calvin and Hobbes's Dad would say: It builds character. :) I guess if nothing else, school teaches us diligence and perserverance...But that doesn't mean we don't kick and scream the whole way. I was talking to an elderly lady yesterday and she said that she always viewed tests as a challenge. So I am thinking okay, yeah, challenge I got it. But then I had four tests today! One of them was a unit test, so that counts for a lot of my grade. But I had to keep going though I cried most of the day ;(. I guess we should view life the same way, as a challenge and a adventure. If life is an adventure it is exciting. Of course, there are the boring times too. But generally life is exciting, but we take it as busy and stressed. I know I do! A lot of times, we simply view life as a chore that has to be done. If we could only view everything that we do as a challenge and an adventure. Even the stuff we get dragged kicking and screaming into. Our life is an adventure, even the school part of it, we just have to see it that way.
PS Did I mention I am homeschooled? :)
PS Did I mention I am homeschooled? :)
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