Today I went to a Christian Church in Jefferson City. I knew it was going to be a contemporary service, but it was even more laid-back than I thought it would be. It basically consisted of singing worship songs, communion, more singing, the message, an offering, and a closing prayer. That's it. There wasn't even an invitation to communion; it was just passed down each row. Definitely not what I'm used to, even for a contemporary service. The praise band was really great - I think singing and listening to the band was my favorite part of the service. The message was alright. Because of what the church is going through right now there was a lot of focus on these things called Life Groups, and I don't plan on attending that church while I'm down here at school, so that kind of went over my head.
The sermon focused on serving, but most of it was based on Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Life. Even though I appreciated the focus of the message (being created to serve, being called to serve, being commanded to serve), I wasn't very impressed. I feel bad for saying that, but it's the simple truth. I'm not going to lie and say that I had a good time or that I can't wait to go back next week. I'm writing about this because it's what I've been thinking about all day. I also think it'll be interesting to read and reflect on in the future.
It just goes to show how things differ from area to area, from church to church and from denomination to denomination. That's one of the only things I don't like about 'Christianity', I think. All of the separation and differences... it's really kind of ridiculous, in my opinion. Why does mankind have to mess everything up? Honestly. And I know there's a reason for it all in God's great plan - I just wish it was apparent to us all at this point in time.
'Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!'
[James 2:12-13]
August 31, 2008
August 30, 2008
Ch. 178 - Do Not Be Troubled
'Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with the gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.'
[1 Peter 3:13-16, NASB]
11. August 2010 Edit:
It is so easy to pull out the pity card, playing the game as a supposed victim. Poor me, I am a Christian and everybody hates me because I am different [or at least supposed to be...]. I don't do this, I do that. I don't do that, I do this. I go here, I listen to this, I follow that, I am what they say I am - a goody two-shoes. Blah, blah, blah. We can't let others beat us down and then stay in the dirt. Turn the other cheek? Sure. But let them continue to believe that which is false and basically let them keep their preconceived notions? No! Prepare. Take heart, standing strong. Pray. Be guided. And let God use you. Be a blessing and be blessed. It may be difficult. It may hurt. But in the long run, they are the ones who will be hurting, when they find themselves eternally separated from God... when you could have been used in order to make a difference. When they ask their questions, when they challenge you, be ready! Be confident that the Lord is on your "side" and be reminded of the hope that you have in the freedom and grace that you have received.
[1 Peter 3:13-16, NASB]
11. August 2010 Edit:
It is so easy to pull out the pity card, playing the game as a supposed victim. Poor me, I am a Christian and everybody hates me because I am different [or at least supposed to be...]. I don't do this, I do that. I don't do that, I do this. I go here, I listen to this, I follow that, I am what they say I am - a goody two-shoes. Blah, blah, blah. We can't let others beat us down and then stay in the dirt. Turn the other cheek? Sure. But let them continue to believe that which is false and basically let them keep their preconceived notions? No! Prepare. Take heart, standing strong. Pray. Be guided. And let God use you. Be a blessing and be blessed. It may be difficult. It may hurt. But in the long run, they are the ones who will be hurting, when they find themselves eternally separated from God... when you could have been used in order to make a difference. When they ask their questions, when they challenge you, be ready! Be confident that the Lord is on your "side" and be reminded of the hope that you have in the freedom and grace that you have received.
August 29, 2008
Ch. 177 - Skool is Kool
I'm going to go past the fact that God is the greatest Teacher, because that's obvious to me. I know that. And I love learning in the world that is His classroom. But it's really neat to see Him at work in classrooms here at school. I've never experienced this kind of learning environment before, so it's like I'm learning twice as much at one time, if that makes sense. Either way, I wouldn't trade what's happening here in general or within me for anything in the world right now.
' "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am.'
[John 13:13]
' "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am.'
[John 13:13]
August 28, 2008
Ch. 176 - Everything is "Fine"
Just because I'm surrounded by many believers who know and love Jesus Christ doesn't mean I'm not surrounded by many believers who are hurting.
I didn't know I was scheduled for a rude awakening tonight until it was happening right before my eyes. We had a floor meeting. It was the first time for my meeting many of the girls on my floor, so it was nice to finally put names with faces I've seen. Standard procedure, I suppose. Attendance sheet passed around. Introductions. Announcements. Open dorm theme voting. It's going just fine. You can see smiles all around the group and a lot of laughter breaks out here and there.
Then come the prayer concerns.
Well, at first nobody said anything. Then our RA mentioned something that was going on in her life; once she had spoken, it was like the dam had broken. Soon all of this stuff came rushing forward.
Sad stuff.
Angry stuff.
Troublesome stuff.
Heartbreaking stuff.
You could hear the hurt in the voices.
You could see the worry in the eyes.
You could feel the anxiety in the air.
Naturally, you likely wouldn't be able to figure out that anything was wrong if you were to speak with these people. But it's there. Lurking under the surface. I don't think these girls are looking for pity. I don't think these girls are looking for sorrow.
Prayer.
Encouragement.
Strength.
Community.
That's what these girls are looking for.
That's what these girls need.
And I know I can't save the world. I'm not a superhero. But my heart went out to these girls and it's like I want to do everything possible to make things good for them. I think they're in a beautiful place to be during these difficult points in their lives (meaning to be here at Central Christian College of the Bible). I know these daunting situations are not meant by God to bring grief, but growth. But when you add in work schedules, six or so classes, mandatory service hours, relationships (whether that means friends, significant others, or both), and whatever else... the stress level increases pretty rapidly. And that's not good.
I just pray that God will place His healing hand over all of these people and that His spirit of peace and comfort will wash over them. I simply hope they just give everything to Him and completely put their trust in Him. God has a plan for all. And He is good. All the time.
'Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.'
[Psalm 34:8]
......
Chapter 176, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NASB]
I didn't know I was scheduled for a rude awakening tonight until it was happening right before my eyes. We had a floor meeting. It was the first time for my meeting many of the girls on my floor, so it was nice to finally put names with faces I've seen. Standard procedure, I suppose. Attendance sheet passed around. Introductions. Announcements. Open dorm theme voting. It's going just fine. You can see smiles all around the group and a lot of laughter breaks out here and there.
Then come the prayer concerns.
Well, at first nobody said anything. Then our RA mentioned something that was going on in her life; once she had spoken, it was like the dam had broken. Soon all of this stuff came rushing forward.
Sad stuff.
Angry stuff.
Troublesome stuff.
Heartbreaking stuff.
You could hear the hurt in the voices.
You could see the worry in the eyes.
You could feel the anxiety in the air.
Naturally, you likely wouldn't be able to figure out that anything was wrong if you were to speak with these people. But it's there. Lurking under the surface. I don't think these girls are looking for pity. I don't think these girls are looking for sorrow.
Prayer.
Encouragement.
Strength.
Community.
That's what these girls are looking for.
That's what these girls need.
And I know I can't save the world. I'm not a superhero. But my heart went out to these girls and it's like I want to do everything possible to make things good for them. I think they're in a beautiful place to be during these difficult points in their lives (meaning to be here at Central Christian College of the Bible). I know these daunting situations are not meant by God to bring grief, but growth. But when you add in work schedules, six or so classes, mandatory service hours, relationships (whether that means friends, significant others, or both), and whatever else... the stress level increases pretty rapidly. And that's not good.
I just pray that God will place His healing hand over all of these people and that His spirit of peace and comfort will wash over them. I simply hope they just give everything to Him and completely put their trust in Him. God has a plan for all. And He is good. All the time.
'Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.'
[Psalm 34:8]
......
Chapter 176, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.'
[1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NASB]
August 27, 2008
Ch. 175 - Prayerful Consideration
Something hit me today. I came to the realization that I've been a lot better about prayer since coming to Central. Before I do anything, I pray. Eating. Sleeping. Studying. Reading. Hanging out. Before class (whether it's led by teachers or not). After class.
Why is that?
Why is it that now that I happen to be at Bible college I'm all about prayer again?
I don't think I make it apparent that I'm praying a lot. I mean, Jesus told us to 'not be like the hypocrites and pray standing in the synagogues on the street corners to be seen by men.' [Matthew 6:5] There's no reward in doing so.
Why can't I be about prayer all the time?
When I'm not at school - whether I'm at Bible college is irrelevant.
When I'm not at church or chapel.
When things are going really well.
When things are not going really well.
When there are specific people I'm praying for.
When there are not specific people I'm praying for.
I suppose I've come to the conclusion that whenever I'm really focusing on God in my life and am surrounded by fellow believers who are doing the same and encouraging one another, I pray more often.
That shouldn't be the case. If anything, I should be praying more when I'm not around fellow believers and when I know I'm not focusing on God for anything, whether it's discussion with friends, schoolwork, preparation for teaching Sunday school, etc.
'Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.'
[James 5:16]
Why is that?
Why is it that now that I happen to be at Bible college I'm all about prayer again?
I don't think I make it apparent that I'm praying a lot. I mean, Jesus told us to 'not be like the hypocrites and pray standing in the synagogues on the street corners to be seen by men.' [Matthew 6:5] There's no reward in doing so.
Why can't I be about prayer all the time?
When I'm not at school - whether I'm at Bible college is irrelevant.
When I'm not at church or chapel.
When things are going really well.
When things are not going really well.
When there are specific people I'm praying for.
When there are not specific people I'm praying for.
I suppose I've come to the conclusion that whenever I'm really focusing on God in my life and am surrounded by fellow believers who are doing the same and encouraging one another, I pray more often.
That shouldn't be the case. If anything, I should be praying more when I'm not around fellow believers and when I know I'm not focusing on God for anything, whether it's discussion with friends, schoolwork, preparation for teaching Sunday school, etc.
'Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.'
[James 5:16]
August 26, 2008
Ch. 174 - The Opposite View
I was challenged to go outside during my Discipleship class today and spend some time just listening. I was to write down everything I heard. It didn't matter if I wrote down five things or fifty things. I ended up listing twenty-four sounds I heard. Some of them are similar to each other, but even so they each have a sound that belongs to only them. It got me thinking how we each have our own sounds, too. God gave each of us our own voice, laugh, cry, yell. He gave us our own personality, characteristics, abilities, gifts. We may all be brothers and sisters in Christ, but we are also a distinct child of God. And that's beautiful.
Here are the sounds I ended up listing:
I hear...
the metallic kick-in of air conditioning units.
the constant chirping of crickets.
the low rumble of vehicles on the highway.
the deep roar of a passing motorcycle.
the booming bass of a car stereo.
the resounding whistle of a train and
the vibrating clacking of the wheels on the tracks.
the gentle passing of the breeze through trees.
the piercing song of a cardinal.
the soothing rhythm of chit-chat between three women.
the gravelly start of an old car.
the smooth purr of a new car.
the persistent beeping of a truck in reverse.
the soft slam of a car door.
the distinct whirl of a helicopter rotor.
the crinkly rustle of my paper, moved by the breeze.
the creaky settling of the gazebo.
the impatient honking of a Toyota Corolla.
the echo of laughter near Foundation Hall.
the comforting 'flip-flop' of someone's steps.
the irritating buzz of mosquitoes in my ear.
the murmuring rustle of a garbage bag blowing in the breeze.
the slow clinking together of a set of keys.
the uneasy scraping of a rock being kicked over pavement.
I've written about silence a couple of times [see Chs. 9 and 33], so it was interesting to take the time to write about noise and sounds. I know I've said that I personally find silence very comforting and that it's technically my favorite 'sound', but I've found that I also take comfort in familiar sounds, especially when I'm outside. Take, for example, crickets. I all but love the sounds that crickets [and bugs] make. I couldn't tell you why. I simply do. That's part of who I am, made by God.
' "Your hands shaped me and made me..." '
[Job 10:8]
'Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp. He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.'
[Psalm 147:7-11]
Here are the sounds I ended up listing:
I hear...
the metallic kick-in of air conditioning units.
the constant chirping of crickets.
the low rumble of vehicles on the highway.
the deep roar of a passing motorcycle.
the booming bass of a car stereo.
the resounding whistle of a train and
the vibrating clacking of the wheels on the tracks.
the gentle passing of the breeze through trees.
the piercing song of a cardinal.
the soothing rhythm of chit-chat between three women.
the gravelly start of an old car.
the smooth purr of a new car.
the persistent beeping of a truck in reverse.
the soft slam of a car door.
the distinct whirl of a helicopter rotor.
the crinkly rustle of my paper, moved by the breeze.
the creaky settling of the gazebo.
the impatient honking of a Toyota Corolla.
the echo of laughter near Foundation Hall.
the comforting 'flip-flop' of someone's steps.
the irritating buzz of mosquitoes in my ear.
the murmuring rustle of a garbage bag blowing in the breeze.
the slow clinking together of a set of keys.
the uneasy scraping of a rock being kicked over pavement.
I've written about silence a couple of times [see Chs. 9 and 33], so it was interesting to take the time to write about noise and sounds. I know I've said that I personally find silence very comforting and that it's technically my favorite 'sound', but I've found that I also take comfort in familiar sounds, especially when I'm outside. Take, for example, crickets. I all but love the sounds that crickets [and bugs] make. I couldn't tell you why. I simply do. That's part of who I am, made by God.
' "Your hands shaped me and made me..." '
[Job 10:8]
'Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp. He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.'
[Psalm 147:7-11]
August 25, 2008
Ch. 173 - He Surrounds Us
Today was simply lovely.
Beautiful.
Perfect.
Have you ever started to walk outside and suddenly stopped in your tracks because you are sincerely and utterly amazed at how wonderful a day it is? Today was one of those days here in Moberly, Missouri.
It was like I could feel God enveloping me in His arms and I was just breathing Him in.
'Every breath I take I breathe in You.'
But sometimes I forget that.
Not today.
Thank you, God.
' "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." '
[Revelation 4:11]
Beautiful.
Perfect.
Have you ever started to walk outside and suddenly stopped in your tracks because you are sincerely and utterly amazed at how wonderful a day it is? Today was one of those days here in Moberly, Missouri.
It was like I could feel God enveloping me in His arms and I was just breathing Him in.
'Every breath I take I breathe in You.'
But sometimes I forget that.
Not today.
Thank you, God.
' "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." '
[Revelation 4:11]
August 24, 2008
Ch. 172 - It's Repentin' Time!
I am not the Judge.
Just another self-reminder.
'There is only one Lawgiver and Judge; the one who is able to save and destroy. But you - who are you to judge your neighbor?'
[James 4:12]
Pulling out the James again...
Just another self-reminder.
'There is only one Lawgiver and Judge; the one who is able to save and destroy. But you - who are you to judge your neighbor?'
[James 4:12]
Pulling out the James again...
August 23, 2008
Ch. 171 - Learning to Listen
I went to Columbia tonight with a group of people. It was really nice to just hang out and listen to people. That's how I like getting to know people. I don't ask a lot of questions and I don't talk about myself seriously unless I'm asked something or if I feel comfortable with people. Random things, like my favorite color or where I'm from, sure. But those 'who are you' and 'what are you about' questions, not so much. That really takes some time on my part.
I know God made some people absolutely upfront about those kinds of things, and others a little more reserved. But honestly, sometimes you get to know people better by observation and listening than talking to them. I don't mean listening in on serious, more private, one-on-one conversations or anything. That can be rude to quite a large extent. But in a group setting, if people are talking back and forth and such, just listening to what's being said totally works. Even if the subject isn't of vulnerable matter or anything, you really can learn about people through what they say, how they react to what's being said, etc.
I like to listen. It's not always easy to do so. It's almost like God is actually teaching me how to listen. And I love that. I think it's something that gets away from a lot of people these days; there's a lot of 'ME, ME, ME!' going on, and not enough 'YOU, YOU, YOU!' I'd like to try and help this situation if possible.
'My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry...'
[James 1:19]
I know God made some people absolutely upfront about those kinds of things, and others a little more reserved. But honestly, sometimes you get to know people better by observation and listening than talking to them. I don't mean listening in on serious, more private, one-on-one conversations or anything. That can be rude to quite a large extent. But in a group setting, if people are talking back and forth and such, just listening to what's being said totally works. Even if the subject isn't of vulnerable matter or anything, you really can learn about people through what they say, how they react to what's being said, etc.
I like to listen. It's not always easy to do so. It's almost like God is actually teaching me how to listen. And I love that. I think it's something that gets away from a lot of people these days; there's a lot of 'ME, ME, ME!' going on, and not enough 'YOU, YOU, YOU!' I'd like to try and help this situation if possible.
'My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry...'
[James 1:19]
August 22, 2008
Ch. 170 - Giving Your All
I attended chapel for the first time here at Central today. Chapel is held twice a week for an hour and it's mandatory. They have attendance and everything. However, after going to chapel today, I have to wonder why you would ever want to skip out or be somewhere else. The reasons are completely beyond me.
We sang worship songs and it was a beautiful experience to hear over four hundred young voices singing praise to God. I've never been part of something like that. Even on mission trips, the most people we had gathered at one time was maybe one hundred and fifty or so. My home church's congregation is pretty large, but during the traditional service (the most attended service), the experience of singing (whether it's contemporary praise or traditional hymns is irrelevant) and praising God by doing so is completely different. The atmosphere is not the same. The energy isn't quite there like it was this morning at chapel. It's not vibrant.
Does that make it any less acceptable?
No.
Does that make it any less affective?
No.
God doesn't care about the how, the when, or the where. And that's what makes true worship so attractive. I've learned this past year that worship is not going to church. Worship is not singing praise songs. Those are aspects of worship. Worship is living your life for God. Giving everything you've got to Him - all day, every day. Don't get me wrong, going to church and singing praise songs is seriously an awesome thing to do, if it so appeals to you and you enjoy participating in those acts of worship. Some say they are not necessary on your walk with Christ, others would disagree.
But it all comes down to loving God above all else and giving Him your heart. That's what truly matters.
Chapel is definitely a bonus, though.
'Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name.'
[Hebrews 13:15]
We sang worship songs and it was a beautiful experience to hear over four hundred young voices singing praise to God. I've never been part of something like that. Even on mission trips, the most people we had gathered at one time was maybe one hundred and fifty or so. My home church's congregation is pretty large, but during the traditional service (the most attended service), the experience of singing (whether it's contemporary praise or traditional hymns is irrelevant) and praising God by doing so is completely different. The atmosphere is not the same. The energy isn't quite there like it was this morning at chapel. It's not vibrant.
Does that make it any less acceptable?
No.
Does that make it any less affective?
No.
God doesn't care about the how, the when, or the where. And that's what makes true worship so attractive. I've learned this past year that worship is not going to church. Worship is not singing praise songs. Those are aspects of worship. Worship is living your life for God. Giving everything you've got to Him - all day, every day. Don't get me wrong, going to church and singing praise songs is seriously an awesome thing to do, if it so appeals to you and you enjoy participating in those acts of worship. Some say they are not necessary on your walk with Christ, others would disagree.
But it all comes down to loving God above all else and giving Him your heart. That's what truly matters.
Chapel is definitely a bonus, though.
'Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name.'
[Hebrews 13:15]
August 21, 2008
Ch. 169 - On Your Mark...
Wow.
Wow.
Wow.
Wow.
I had my first day of class today.
And indeed, 'wow' is all I can say.
I'm so ready to run this race.
'Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.'
[1 Peter 1:13]
......
Ch. 169, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Surely my soul remembers and is bowed down within me. This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him." '
[Lamentations 3:20-24, NASB]
In my Christian Discipleship class we have verses each week that we have to memorize, so I'm using those for the rest of the semester. Usually I use NIV for all of my verses, but the school uses NASB, so for at least the memory verses I'm using NASB. So yes, 'lovingkindnesses' is correct.
Wow.
Wow.
Wow.
I had my first day of class today.
And indeed, 'wow' is all I can say.
I'm so ready to run this race.
'Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.'
[1 Peter 1:13]
......
Ch. 169, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Surely my soul remembers and is bowed down within me. This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him." '
[Lamentations 3:20-24, NASB]
In my Christian Discipleship class we have verses each week that we have to memorize, so I'm using those for the rest of the semester. Usually I use NIV for all of my verses, but the school uses NASB, so for at least the memory verses I'm using NASB. So yes, 'lovingkindnesses' is correct.
August 20, 2008
Ch. 168 - Vulnerability
God is personal to us.
So it's really difficult to be vulnerable with other people when it comes to God. But pushing ourselves to be just that is what makes us grow.
I was taking an assessment questionnaire today during our World Views session. One of the questions asked something along the lines of how many hours I spend each week talking to others about God and my faith. As much as I wanted to shade the rectangle in the 5-10 hours per week, I wasn't going to lie. So I went with the truth and shaded in the rectangle in the 0-2 hours per week. I actually felt ashamed of myself as I slowly moved my pencil back and forth in thin lines to fill in the small box. It's the truth, though. I haven't had a good, sit-down, heart-to-heart kind of talk with anyone and just talked about God in a long, long time. I suppose I'm in a pretty good place to change that!
But even if 5-10 hours (or more!) were the truth, that in itself would be a challenge for me, because it truly is difficult for me to talk about my faith openly with fellow believers. Eight months into the year and I am still no closer to actually working on my new year's resolution. I said the same thing at two and a half months into the year (see Ch. 62) and thought about it a few times here and there since then... so I'm obviously pretty conscious that I'm not doing anything about it.
I have to get over the fact that being vulnerable with people is not going to kill me. God is always with me. He is my Light and my Guide. I can't retreat into the dark just because it's not always easy to talk about the Light.
'I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.'
[Philippians 4:13]
Putting the memory verses to use!
So it's really difficult to be vulnerable with other people when it comes to God. But pushing ourselves to be just that is what makes us grow.
I was taking an assessment questionnaire today during our World Views session. One of the questions asked something along the lines of how many hours I spend each week talking to others about God and my faith. As much as I wanted to shade the rectangle in the 5-10 hours per week, I wasn't going to lie. So I went with the truth and shaded in the rectangle in the 0-2 hours per week. I actually felt ashamed of myself as I slowly moved my pencil back and forth in thin lines to fill in the small box. It's the truth, though. I haven't had a good, sit-down, heart-to-heart kind of talk with anyone and just talked about God in a long, long time. I suppose I'm in a pretty good place to change that!
But even if 5-10 hours (or more!) were the truth, that in itself would be a challenge for me, because it truly is difficult for me to talk about my faith openly with fellow believers. Eight months into the year and I am still no closer to actually working on my new year's resolution. I said the same thing at two and a half months into the year (see Ch. 62) and thought about it a few times here and there since then... so I'm obviously pretty conscious that I'm not doing anything about it.
I have to get over the fact that being vulnerable with people is not going to kill me. God is always with me. He is my Light and my Guide. I can't retreat into the dark just because it's not always easy to talk about the Light.
'I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.'
[Philippians 4:13]
Putting the memory verses to use!
August 19, 2008
Ch. 167 - Falling in Love
Today I went on a walk. I went behind the soccer field on a dusty, gravel path. It led to a road, beyond which there was a neighborhood. I crossed the street and walked on a sidewalk away from the neighborhood, east. Before I had gone very far I noticed a small trail leading into a grove of trees between the backyards of the neighborhood and an open field. I decided to check it out, seeing how I love woodsy trails.
I started along and soon saw a large tree off to the side of the path. Some of its branches have grown out and downward from the trunk, creating an archway over the path. It was like a grand, welcoming entryway and I took my precious time crossing under.
Before long I came to a wooden bridge. There's no stream or creek running below it, and there are certainly no trolls living underneath. But it's there. And I've decided that I love it for simply being there.
I kept walking. Up ahead the trail splits. To the left, the trail goes farther into the grove. To the right, there is a wooden platform and a few rows of benches in front of the platform. Beyond the benches there is an open field of grass. I decided to turn to my right. I walked a few steps, jumped onto the platform and looked out across the field.
My breath caught in my throat and I found myself saying, "Thank you, God."
Some people may not find the field particularly beautiful. There are no wildflowers growing. There aren't even any clover patches like there are in the grassy areas of Central. Ever since I was a little girl I have loved clover patches. Who cares if clover is technically a weed? But it was love at first sight. There's something about the field that made me so grateful for God's creation. Just this past year I finally realized that there is truly beauty in all things, all situations and all people. It may simply take some time to see that beauty.
For some reason, I was able to see the beauty in this field instantly.
And I praise God for this.
'May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works - he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke. I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord.'
[Psalm 104:31-34]
I started along and soon saw a large tree off to the side of the path. Some of its branches have grown out and downward from the trunk, creating an archway over the path. It was like a grand, welcoming entryway and I took my precious time crossing under.
Before long I came to a wooden bridge. There's no stream or creek running below it, and there are certainly no trolls living underneath. But it's there. And I've decided that I love it for simply being there.
I kept walking. Up ahead the trail splits. To the left, the trail goes farther into the grove. To the right, there is a wooden platform and a few rows of benches in front of the platform. Beyond the benches there is an open field of grass. I decided to turn to my right. I walked a few steps, jumped onto the platform and looked out across the field.
My breath caught in my throat and I found myself saying, "Thank you, God."
Some people may not find the field particularly beautiful. There are no wildflowers growing. There aren't even any clover patches like there are in the grassy areas of Central. Ever since I was a little girl I have loved clover patches. Who cares if clover is technically a weed? But it was love at first sight. There's something about the field that made me so grateful for God's creation. Just this past year I finally realized that there is truly beauty in all things, all situations and all people. It may simply take some time to see that beauty.
For some reason, I was able to see the beauty in this field instantly.
And I praise God for this.
'May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works - he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke. I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord.'
[Psalm 104:31-34]
August 18, 2008
Ch. 166 - Wide Open Spaces
GOALS. Do you have any? No? Well, you and me both! If you answered yes, then I envy you. Setting goals is tough for me, for some unbeknownst reason. I've been here two and a half days and having goals has come up quite a few times. At times it was just blaring in my face, other times it was so subtle I barely noticed the topic had been breached. Honestly, though, I simply haven't thought about goals very often.
Thus, I'm trying to see what I can come up with goal-wise. There are the obvious goals that I'm sure most people think of, such as having a good life with a nice job or career. Being successful. Getting married and having a family. Of course, 'being successful' would depend on your definition of success. These said goals seem kind of cliché, but they work. I mean, I do want to have a good life. I do want to be successful. I do want to get married and have a family. But that's just skimming the surface, I think.
I believe God's throwing this at me because yes, it is important, and by setting goals I will be able to focus on what He wants me to do and where He wants me to be. What I want is to please Him. Serve Him. Love Him. And I want to serve others. Love others. Share God. What I want are the skills, courage, knowledge, leadership, and gifts to do so. I suppose if those are what I want then I will work, pray, ask, and strive for them. I know God will help me achieve my goals, which I'm sure will multiply as time goes on. Always learning...
'So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.'
[2 Corinthians 5:9]
Thus, I'm trying to see what I can come up with goal-wise. There are the obvious goals that I'm sure most people think of, such as having a good life with a nice job or career. Being successful. Getting married and having a family. Of course, 'being successful' would depend on your definition of success. These said goals seem kind of cliché, but they work. I mean, I do want to have a good life. I do want to be successful. I do want to get married and have a family. But that's just skimming the surface, I think.
I believe God's throwing this at me because yes, it is important, and by setting goals I will be able to focus on what He wants me to do and where He wants me to be. What I want is to please Him. Serve Him. Love Him. And I want to serve others. Love others. Share God. What I want are the skills, courage, knowledge, leadership, and gifts to do so. I suppose if those are what I want then I will work, pray, ask, and strive for them. I know God will help me achieve my goals, which I'm sure will multiply as time goes on. Always learning...
'So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.'
[2 Corinthians 5:9]
August 17, 2008
Ch. 165 - A New Light
Last night there was a bonfire for the new students. Now, when I think ‘bonfire’ I think of large, roaring flames dancing toward the sky. So imagine my disappointment when I reach said bonfire with one of my roommates, Leez, and see a somewhat pathetic, little pit of fire. Okay, so it honestly wasn’t that pathetic. I’m just making a big deal out of nothing. But as people stood around this fire, there was a sense of community that made the fire seem bigger, brighter and warmer than any other bonfire I've experienced.
Someone had brought a guitar and we started to sing some worship songs. Everybody sang. Nobody was too cool to sing. Nobody was too shy to sing. Nobody was too embarrassed to sing. Every single student was lifting their voices in praise to God. Beautiful. His presence was felt by, I'm sure, many of the students. I was so glad that I had made my way over to the fire and was there for that time of praise. It was a perfect way to end the evening, as well as a perfect way to start the week.
' "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." '
[Matthew 18:20]
Someone had brought a guitar and we started to sing some worship songs. Everybody sang. Nobody was too cool to sing. Nobody was too shy to sing. Nobody was too embarrassed to sing. Every single student was lifting their voices in praise to God. Beautiful. His presence was felt by, I'm sure, many of the students. I was so glad that I had made my way over to the fire and was there for that time of praise. It was a perfect way to end the evening, as well as a perfect way to start the week.
' "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." '
[Matthew 18:20]
August 16, 2008
Ch. 164 - And So It Begins
I'm writing this from my room at Central Christian College of the Bible in Moberly, MO. I've settled in nicely and everything is pretty much a go. I don't start classes until Thursday. Central has a lot of things planned for the students before then, mostly for the benefit of getting to know our peers - as well as the faculty and staff - which is really nice.
Honestly though, I'm most excited for classes to begin. I mean, yes, I love meeting new people and making friends, but if that's what life is all about I wouldn't have left some of the best friends I've ever had in Salt Lake so that I could go to school here. I've decided that having friends while going to school is a benefit... however, a necessary benefit. Without friends you will not grow and flourish as nicely as you would if you have friends. They can definitely become like family and be a great support system. Besides, you never know which one of your friends will become your future husband or wife - which, yes, was mentioned last night at dinner by the president of Central.
Anyway.
I feel really comfortable here. This should be a great year. I know that God has some amazing things in store for not just myself, but all of the students at Central. I know I'm going to grow in so many ways, but I have no idea how that growth will occur... which makes it all the more exciting!
' "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." '
[Jeremiah 29:11-13]
That makes four.
Honestly though, I'm most excited for classes to begin. I mean, yes, I love meeting new people and making friends, but if that's what life is all about I wouldn't have left some of the best friends I've ever had in Salt Lake so that I could go to school here. I've decided that having friends while going to school is a benefit... however, a necessary benefit. Without friends you will not grow and flourish as nicely as you would if you have friends. They can definitely become like family and be a great support system. Besides, you never know which one of your friends will become your future husband or wife - which, yes, was mentioned last night at dinner by the president of Central.
Anyway.
I feel really comfortable here. This should be a great year. I know that God has some amazing things in store for not just myself, but all of the students at Central. I know I'm going to grow in so many ways, but I have no idea how that growth will occur... which makes it all the more exciting!
' "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." '
[Jeremiah 29:11-13]
That makes four.
August 15, 2008
Ch. 163 - Ready for the Dive
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.'
[Proverbs 3:5-6; emphasis my own]
Oh, how so many people love these verses... I certainly do. There is such comfort in them. Truth, as well. And that is what we so greatly desire, I believe.
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.'
[Proverbs 3:5-6; emphasis my own]
Oh, how so many people love these verses... I certainly do. There is such comfort in them. Truth, as well. And that is what we so greatly desire, I believe.
August 14, 2008
Ch. 162 - The Clock is Ticking
I haven't had a busy summer.
At all.
It's been really nice, I'm not going to lie.
But I can't wait to have a busy schedule again once I'm in school.
Classes.
Church.
Service projects.
Finding a semester ministry.
Hanging out.
It's all going to be there.
And I'm excited for it all.
However, what I'm most excited for is learning how to live a God-filled life. How to put Him into practice, you could say. You don't have to go to school to learn how. In fact, most people don't. But to have that extra background and such? A great opportunity, in my opinion. This summer hasn't been very God-filled on my part, and I've no one to blame but myself. I haven't been pursuing Him at all. I haven't been preparing for the upcoming year. I haven't tried to grow closer to Him. And I have definitely not felt quite right since I've come home. So I'm excited to be simply surrounded by believers again and really striving to know God better.
I kept saying to myself, "I need to set aside time for God." In reality, I had all the time in the world - and I knew I did! Terrible. I know that I may have to set personal time aside in the near future, but it's nice to know that things are sort of planned out for me in advance for general time with God.
This is going to be a great year.
' "I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols. See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you." '
[Isaiah 42:8-9]
......
Ch. 162, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?'
[1 Corinthians 3:16]
At all.
It's been really nice, I'm not going to lie.
But I can't wait to have a busy schedule again once I'm in school.
Classes.
Church.
Service projects.
Finding a semester ministry.
Hanging out.
It's all going to be there.
And I'm excited for it all.
However, what I'm most excited for is learning how to live a God-filled life. How to put Him into practice, you could say. You don't have to go to school to learn how. In fact, most people don't. But to have that extra background and such? A great opportunity, in my opinion. This summer hasn't been very God-filled on my part, and I've no one to blame but myself. I haven't been pursuing Him at all. I haven't been preparing for the upcoming year. I haven't tried to grow closer to Him. And I have definitely not felt quite right since I've come home. So I'm excited to be simply surrounded by believers again and really striving to know God better.
I kept saying to myself, "I need to set aside time for God." In reality, I had all the time in the world - and I knew I did! Terrible. I know that I may have to set personal time aside in the near future, but it's nice to know that things are sort of planned out for me in advance for general time with God.
This is going to be a great year.
' "I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols. See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you." '
[Isaiah 42:8-9]
......
Ch. 162, Part Two:
This week's memory verse:
'Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?'
[1 Corinthians 3:16]
August 13, 2008
Ch. 161 - The Wise Fool
'Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.'
[Proverbs 17:28]
18. July 2010 Edit:
Oh goodness... God only knows why I used this verse for a blog post. I certainly do not remember. The possibilities are endless, really. Knowing me, I don't think I would ever want to know why, to be completely honest. I have had to work very hard over the years to tame my tongue. I know that I still have a great deal of work ahead of me... and I have come quite a ways. This proverb is one that I think many could benefit from knowing. It says that even a fool is thought wise and discerning... for keeping silent and holding his tongue. Thus, there must be some great importance in doing these things if even a fool could do so and be thought of in such a high regard. I'm not saying it's okay to be foolish and do these things once in a while in order to "redeem" yourself, of course...
[Proverbs 17:28]
18. July 2010 Edit:
Oh goodness... God only knows why I used this verse for a blog post. I certainly do not remember. The possibilities are endless, really. Knowing me, I don't think I would ever want to know why, to be completely honest. I have had to work very hard over the years to tame my tongue. I know that I still have a great deal of work ahead of me... and I have come quite a ways. This proverb is one that I think many could benefit from knowing. It says that even a fool is thought wise and discerning... for keeping silent and holding his tongue. Thus, there must be some great importance in doing these things if even a fool could do so and be thought of in such a high regard. I'm not saying it's okay to be foolish and do these things once in a while in order to "redeem" yourself, of course...
August 12, 2008
Ch. 160 - I've Lost Count
Ahhh... the power of prayer.
God is good.
All the time.
'This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him.'
[1 John 5:14-15]
God is good.
All the time.
'This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him.'
[1 John 5:14-15]
August 11, 2008
Ch. 159 - Another Adventure Begins
I move to Missouri in five days.
Five days.
August 16 certainly has snuck up on me. It seems like yesterday I was calling my dad saying that I wanted to transfer... and thus that I'm not supposed to go back to Iowa for another week. But here I am, sitting in my parent's house in beautiful Cedar Rapids, writing about heading down to Central Christian College of the Bible on Saturday.
I can't wait.
This is it.
This is real.
It's where I'm supposed to be.
I just know it.
I don't know what God's full, intended plan for me is.
But I do know that even though it took me a full year to get where I am today that the year was not lived as time wasted.
I woke up.
I started living.
I learned.
I listened. Heard.
And now I'm answering back.
'I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.'
[Psalm 32:8]
Five days.
August 16 certainly has snuck up on me. It seems like yesterday I was calling my dad saying that I wanted to transfer... and thus that I'm not supposed to go back to Iowa for another week. But here I am, sitting in my parent's house in beautiful Cedar Rapids, writing about heading down to Central Christian College of the Bible on Saturday.
I can't wait.
This is it.
This is real.
It's where I'm supposed to be.
I just know it.
I don't know what God's full, intended plan for me is.
But I do know that even though it took me a full year to get where I am today that the year was not lived as time wasted.
I woke up.
I started living.
I learned.
I listened. Heard.
And now I'm answering back.
'I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.'
[Psalm 32:8]
August 10, 2008
Ch. 158 - The Boldness of Peter
Sometimes trial and error is the only way of finding the best way to prepare or practice for something. This may include the best way of following God or answering a call.
Remember the boldness of Peter as he stepped out of the boat to go to Jesus.
Have faith.
Stand strong in any storm that may surround you.
We need God - but He needs us, too.
Don't miss the divine invitation to follow Jesus and serve God.
'During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
[Matthew 14:25-31]
Remember the boldness of Peter as he stepped out of the boat to go to Jesus.
Have faith.
Stand strong in any storm that may surround you.
We need God - but He needs us, too.
Don't miss the divine invitation to follow Jesus and serve God.
'During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
[Matthew 14:25-31]
August 9, 2008
Ch. 157 - A Life Goal
'Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.'
[Psalm 82:3-4]
15. July 2010 Edit:
Coming back to this post is quite interesting, actually. Just a couple days ago I began reading through Isaiah. In the first chapter, verse seventeen says, '... learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.' Both of these remind me of James 1:27, which says this: 'Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.' ... Heavy. There is such weight to these words, and that weight, I feel, is pressing upon my heart. How many people in this world are physically fatherless, and do not know that they have a spiritual Father greater than any man could ever be? How many people in this world are oppressed and are hopeless, and do not know that they can have absolute freedom in the Lord? It saddens me to think about these things... yet it gives me great encouragement knowing that many of my brothers and sisters are going out into the world in order to help these people in the name of Jesus Christ.
[Psalm 82:3-4]
15. July 2010 Edit:
Coming back to this post is quite interesting, actually. Just a couple days ago I began reading through Isaiah. In the first chapter, verse seventeen says, '... learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.' Both of these remind me of James 1:27, which says this: 'Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.' ... Heavy. There is such weight to these words, and that weight, I feel, is pressing upon my heart. How many people in this world are physically fatherless, and do not know that they have a spiritual Father greater than any man could ever be? How many people in this world are oppressed and are hopeless, and do not know that they can have absolute freedom in the Lord? It saddens me to think about these things... yet it gives me great encouragement knowing that many of my brothers and sisters are going out into the world in order to help these people in the name of Jesus Christ.
August 8, 2008
Ch. 156 - Parade of Nations
So tonight I watched the opening ceremony for the 2008 Olympics, right? And I was completely awestruck at the amazing different aspects of it all. I couldn't seem to wrap my mind around all the imagination and thought and technology and work and power and detail that it encompassed. It was a breathtaking spectacle and, by far, the best opening ceremony that's ever been arranged. But my favorite part was not the performance aspect of the ceremony. Rather, it was the parade of nations - the part where the athletes for the respective competing countries walk in. The parade of nations has always been my favorite part, and I know it will be for years to come.
To see the unity and the peace and the joy of the athletes is simply something else. From the United States with its 647 athletes to Naura and its single competitor... many countries are represented in the world, given perhaps only one chance to bring home honor, respect and glory. The athletes are the best of the best and they deserve to be there. Why anybody would want to spoil what the Olympics is all about and boycott the games or bomb stadiums is beyond me. Being able to put aside differences and coming together in harmony - the theme for Beijing 2008 - is just as important as competing and winning a gold medal in my opinion. There was a lot of speculation about the politics of it all, being in a Communist country and whatnot I mean, but it seems to be off pretty well; so far, so good. Now if it could just stay that way for a couple more weeks... that'd be peachy.
'... God has called us to live in peace.'
[1 Corinthians 7:15]
......
Ch. 156, Part Two:
I think my absolute favorite part of the parade of nations was when China walked in last, and next to the flag bearer (Yao Ming) walked a young boy. He is nine years old, but looked incredibly small next to seven and a half foot tall Yao Ming. The boy's name is Lin Hao. He is a survivor of the earthquake in Sichuan. Twenty of his thirty classmates died. Lin Hao had freed himself from the rubble and soon after went back into the rubble to find his classmates and help pull them out. He said he was a class leader and a hall monitor and thus felt it was his responsibility to try and help them. Lin Hao encouraged his classmates to sing songs to help keep up their spirits while rescuers worked to free them. Amazing, amazing, amazing boy.
To see the unity and the peace and the joy of the athletes is simply something else. From the United States with its 647 athletes to Naura and its single competitor... many countries are represented in the world, given perhaps only one chance to bring home honor, respect and glory. The athletes are the best of the best and they deserve to be there. Why anybody would want to spoil what the Olympics is all about and boycott the games or bomb stadiums is beyond me. Being able to put aside differences and coming together in harmony - the theme for Beijing 2008 - is just as important as competing and winning a gold medal in my opinion. There was a lot of speculation about the politics of it all, being in a Communist country and whatnot I mean, but it seems to be off pretty well; so far, so good. Now if it could just stay that way for a couple more weeks... that'd be peachy.
'... God has called us to live in peace.'
[1 Corinthians 7:15]
......
Ch. 156, Part Two:
I think my absolute favorite part of the parade of nations was when China walked in last, and next to the flag bearer (Yao Ming) walked a young boy. He is nine years old, but looked incredibly small next to seven and a half foot tall Yao Ming. The boy's name is Lin Hao. He is a survivor of the earthquake in Sichuan. Twenty of his thirty classmates died. Lin Hao had freed himself from the rubble and soon after went back into the rubble to find his classmates and help pull them out. He said he was a class leader and a hall monitor and thus felt it was his responsibility to try and help them. Lin Hao encouraged his classmates to sing songs to help keep up their spirits while rescuers worked to free them. Amazing, amazing, amazing boy.
August 7, 2008
Ch. 155 - Praise for Providence
'In that day you will say: "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world." '
[Isaiah 12:4-5]
1. June 2010 Edit:
I think these verses state what we, as followers of Jesus Christ, should be striving to do continually. Give thanks. Call on Him. Make Him known, as well as what He has done. Proclaim for exclamation. Sing to Him... praise. All things can be done for God's glory. We need to let Him in, allowing Him to use us and work through us. Ask God to go before you, shining a light.
[Isaiah 12:4-5]
1. June 2010 Edit:
I think these verses state what we, as followers of Jesus Christ, should be striving to do continually. Give thanks. Call on Him. Make Him known, as well as what He has done. Proclaim for exclamation. Sing to Him... praise. All things can be done for God's glory. We need to let Him in, allowing Him to use us and work through us. Ask God to go before you, shining a light.
August 6, 2008
Ch. 154 - Words to Live By
I've finally finished a book I've been reading since maybe... March? I think that's about right. Well. More like February, I think. I've been reading a few pages here and there. Usually when I start to read a book, I finish that day or the next - no matter how many chapters or pages it contains (I'm a quick reader, but able to comprehend everything very well.). But for some reason, this has been a 'pick up-set down' kind of book. But it's been very interesting how that has worked out for me. It seems that each time I read anything from this book God directly spoke to me through the writing. If I was ever bothered by anything, I was calmed. If I was ever wondering about something, my questions were answered. Really cool.
The book is titled Essential Writings. It is made up of selections from over a dozen books by Carlo Carretto. He was a member of the Little Brothers of Jesus, the order inspired by the spirituality of Charles de Foucauld.
One of my favorite parts was near the end of the book. The chapter is titled 'Last Things'. The quote I am about to post comes from Carretto's book And God Saw That It Was Good, but the section is titled 'The Face of Crucified Love'.
'Jesus gave the example by living as he lived, by dying as he died; he explained to us how we should act in order to conquer evil and destroy death.
Human beings, do you want to free yourselves from the evil oppressing you?
Act as Jesus did.
Human beings, do you want to destroy death, which is ever clutching at you?
Die of love, as Jesus did.
To overcome the evil seeking to master us, to transform our death into an act of love, is to achieve that conquest necessary for entering the kingdom, I mean the kingdom of peace and freedom, the kingdom of justice and love.
No one can discharge this task for us.
It's true, Jesus has saved us, but he's left the hard work of saving ourselves to us.'
I really appreciate what Carretto said about conquering evil and destroying death. It's so uplifting to know that we can do just that thanks to Jesus Christ. It's difficult - there's no doubt about that. There will be a lot of battles, but it's kind of like we already know that no matter what happens we will win the war.
'Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession...'
[1 Timothy 6:12]
The book is titled Essential Writings. It is made up of selections from over a dozen books by Carlo Carretto. He was a member of the Little Brothers of Jesus, the order inspired by the spirituality of Charles de Foucauld.
One of my favorite parts was near the end of the book. The chapter is titled 'Last Things'. The quote I am about to post comes from Carretto's book And God Saw That It Was Good, but the section is titled 'The Face of Crucified Love'.
'Jesus gave the example by living as he lived, by dying as he died; he explained to us how we should act in order to conquer evil and destroy death.
Human beings, do you want to free yourselves from the evil oppressing you?
Act as Jesus did.
Human beings, do you want to destroy death, which is ever clutching at you?
Die of love, as Jesus did.
To overcome the evil seeking to master us, to transform our death into an act of love, is to achieve that conquest necessary for entering the kingdom, I mean the kingdom of peace and freedom, the kingdom of justice and love.
No one can discharge this task for us.
It's true, Jesus has saved us, but he's left the hard work of saving ourselves to us.'
I really appreciate what Carretto said about conquering evil and destroying death. It's so uplifting to know that we can do just that thanks to Jesus Christ. It's difficult - there's no doubt about that. There will be a lot of battles, but it's kind of like we already know that no matter what happens we will win the war.
'Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession...'
[1 Timothy 6:12]
August 5, 2008
Ch. 153 - One Step at a Time
Sometimes you need a bit of encouragement from someone you don't technically know that well - but sincerely love - in order to take that next step forward... or realize that the step you're already taking isn't quite as scary as you think it is.
God has ordered each step you take and He is with you on each and every one of those steps. That is such a comforting thought, is it not? I mean, even though I know that He has a plan for me, sometimes I don't think about all the steps and points of that plan. I spend so much time worrying about the future and trying to plan it out for myself that I don't take the time to think about the here and now - or hand the reins over to God and put my absolute trust in Him day after day after day. I can't just surrender myself to God every now and then and expect something to great to happen. I need to give my whole being to him without even thinking about doing so. If I want to be the ears, hands and feet of Christ I have to first give Him my heart.
This is what I learned today as God spoke to me through a woman whom He is doing some amazing things. I was at such a loss for words today as I was overcome with feelings of relief, gratitude and hope.
I still am.
A simple 'thank you' was all I could muster. Please accept a thousand thanks, Aunt Barbara. You touched me in more than one way today and I will truly treasure that short amount of time we had together for many years to come.
'Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.'
[Romans 12:1-2]
God has ordered each step you take and He is with you on each and every one of those steps. That is such a comforting thought, is it not? I mean, even though I know that He has a plan for me, sometimes I don't think about all the steps and points of that plan. I spend so much time worrying about the future and trying to plan it out for myself that I don't take the time to think about the here and now - or hand the reins over to God and put my absolute trust in Him day after day after day. I can't just surrender myself to God every now and then and expect something to great to happen. I need to give my whole being to him without even thinking about doing so. If I want to be the ears, hands and feet of Christ I have to first give Him my heart.
This is what I learned today as God spoke to me through a woman whom He is doing some amazing things. I was at such a loss for words today as I was overcome with feelings of relief, gratitude and hope.
I still am.
A simple 'thank you' was all I could muster. Please accept a thousand thanks, Aunt Barbara. You touched me in more than one way today and I will truly treasure that short amount of time we had together for many years to come.
'Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.'
[Romans 12:1-2]
August 4, 2008
Ch. 152 - Why I Believe
I was asked a question a few months ago by a friend. A question there is no technical answer to. The answer can be whatever you want it to be, simply according to you and your thoughts, beliefs and ideas. I've been thinking about this question almost daily and have discussed it with a couple handfuls of people thus far. What I've decided is that my answer is simple and true to me. It might not be entirely adequate or easily argued against, but it's mine and I like it.
The question is this:
Why do you believe in Jesus?
My answer is this:
I have no reason not to believe in Jesus.
I believe in Jesus because I choose to.
' ..."Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved..." '
[Acts 16:31]
The question is this:
Why do you believe in Jesus?
My answer is this:
I have no reason not to believe in Jesus.
I believe in Jesus because I choose to.
' ..."Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved..." '
[Acts 16:31]
August 3, 2008
Ch. 151 - A Fool's Thoughts
I've said it before. I judge people. I judge people a lot. But when I start to judge my own family, I think that's a sign that I've hit an absolute low. How dare I do such a thing? People I should be loving and embracing for who they are, I am putting down with my thoughts and trying to convince myself that I am better than they. But for what reasons could I be better? I have none. I should be serving them and encouraging them and building them up. If I want to be the very least, I have to place myself there and have that mindset.
Who am I to think that I don't have faults?
Who am I to think that I never say anything rude?
Who am I to think that I never disrespect my elders - or even my parents?
May God give me the strength to lay down my pride and to repent from my judging ways. There is only one Judge. And the day of judgment has yet to come.
' "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" '
[Matthew 7:1-3]
Who am I to think that I don't have faults?
Who am I to think that I never say anything rude?
Who am I to think that I never disrespect my elders - or even my parents?
May God give me the strength to lay down my pride and to repent from my judging ways. There is only one Judge. And the day of judgment has yet to come.
' "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" '
[Matthew 7:1-3]
August 2, 2008
Ch. 150 - Full Speed Ahead
'Into marvelous light I'm running,
out of darkness, out of shame.
By the cross You are the truth,
You are the life, You are the way.
My dead heart now is beating,
my deepest stains now clean.
Your breath fills up my lungs,
now I'm free, now I'm free.
Lift my hands and spin around,
See the light that I have found.
Oh the marvelous light,
the marvelous light.'
[Marvelous Light]
This is, quite possibly, one of my favorite songs ever. It really speaks to me and I am able to connect to it because I believe a lot of it perfectly describes how I've come to know Christ and what has happened in my life since I've truly accepted Him into my heart.
A couple weeks ago I had written a post about receiving something I had been waiting for [see Chs. 136 and 137]. That 'something' was forgiveness. I know, I know: 'How can you be waiting for forgiveness? God forgives everything once you ask for it and expect that it will be given to you.' I don't know how to describe my thought process behind it, though. Just trust me when I say that I know when God has truly forgiven me for something. It's one of those 'things', you know? A feeling. A thought. A sense of humility like no other.
Anyway, while I was waiting for said forgiveness, I couldn't help but notice that I didn't feel quite right. I didn't feel alive in Christ... a terrible feeling. So the verse I have posted above ('my dead heart now is beating...') really represents that struggle I felt in my heart to connect with God and focus on Him while waiting for His forgiveness - and then the turnaround with His breath filling up my lungs, setting me free in His love, mercy and grace. I don't think the verse can only be about accepting Christ into your heart and being free in Him, which is a great thing. It is able to speak to all people and meet them where they are in life and in their walks with God. Beautiful.
I also appreciate the first part of the song that I posted ('by the cross you are the truth...').
' "Jesus answered, "I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." '
[John 14:6]
I have been on the other side of the fence and thus can tell you, with firsthand experience, that it couldn't be more true. If you think there's any way around it, you are wrong. That's a pretty opinionated and bold statement, but I agree with what Jesus said so strongly that there's no way I'd say or believe otherwise.
So yes, I am running into marvelous light... and I'm not slowing down anytime soon.
' "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." '
[Matthew 7:13-14]
out of darkness, out of shame.
By the cross You are the truth,
You are the life, You are the way.
My dead heart now is beating,
my deepest stains now clean.
Your breath fills up my lungs,
now I'm free, now I'm free.
Lift my hands and spin around,
See the light that I have found.
Oh the marvelous light,
the marvelous light.'
[Marvelous Light]
This is, quite possibly, one of my favorite songs ever. It really speaks to me and I am able to connect to it because I believe a lot of it perfectly describes how I've come to know Christ and what has happened in my life since I've truly accepted Him into my heart.
A couple weeks ago I had written a post about receiving something I had been waiting for [see Chs. 136 and 137]. That 'something' was forgiveness. I know, I know: 'How can you be waiting for forgiveness? God forgives everything once you ask for it and expect that it will be given to you.' I don't know how to describe my thought process behind it, though. Just trust me when I say that I know when God has truly forgiven me for something. It's one of those 'things', you know? A feeling. A thought. A sense of humility like no other.
Anyway, while I was waiting for said forgiveness, I couldn't help but notice that I didn't feel quite right. I didn't feel alive in Christ... a terrible feeling. So the verse I have posted above ('my dead heart now is beating...') really represents that struggle I felt in my heart to connect with God and focus on Him while waiting for His forgiveness - and then the turnaround with His breath filling up my lungs, setting me free in His love, mercy and grace. I don't think the verse can only be about accepting Christ into your heart and being free in Him, which is a great thing. It is able to speak to all people and meet them where they are in life and in their walks with God. Beautiful.
I also appreciate the first part of the song that I posted ('by the cross you are the truth...').
' "Jesus answered, "I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." '
[John 14:6]
I have been on the other side of the fence and thus can tell you, with firsthand experience, that it couldn't be more true. If you think there's any way around it, you are wrong. That's a pretty opinionated and bold statement, but I agree with what Jesus said so strongly that there's no way I'd say or believe otherwise.
So yes, I am running into marvelous light... and I'm not slowing down anytime soon.
' "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." '
[Matthew 7:13-14]
August 1, 2008
Ch. 149 - Getting Over 'It'
Time to be tough.
Suck it up.
Get over it.
It's not a big deal.
I keep saying these things to myself, in regards to not being in Salt Lake. I'm homesick for Utah. How crazy is that? I was there for ten months and I miss it like no other. I said it in my other blog, too, but I'm not too proud to say it again and again and again. Because never before had I experienced LIFE the way I did when I lived in SLC.
And you know, sometimes you just have to say what you're thinking.
I miss walking around campus. I miss reading on the city library's roof. I miss riding TRAX. I miss leaving notes on the boys' apartment door. I miss walking the Red Butte trails. I miss seeing snow on the mountains surrounding the valley. I miss crossing the Legacy Bridge on winter mornings on the way to weightlifting. I miss sipping piping hot Americano in CoffeeBreak.
But most of all, I miss the people I met.
I miss listening to Darcy's hilarious stories.
I miss God-talks with Matt.
I miss Shawn's dancing and prancing around.
I miss hearing Spencer make fun of Brittany.
I miss hearing Tiffany make fun of Spencer.
I miss Zach's quiet nonchalance.
I miss Katie's humorous quips.
I miss learning about Ross' reckless ideas.
I miss Kastin's amazing hugs.
I miss random talks with Landon about nothing and everything.
I miss Ricky's quiet enthusiasm.
I miss Jackie's passionate outbursts.
I miss listening to Ben leading praise at Ute-Nited.
I miss Katie C's contagious laughter.
I miss thinking and thinking and thinking about David's questions.
I miss experiencing Jess' excitement about small group.
I could go on forever with these 'I miss' statements - especially about specific people - but I'm not going to waste my time grieving over the fact that I'm not in Salt Lake City at this point in time and that there are people, places and things that I miss.
My dad has kept on asking me if I'm sure I want to go to school in Missouri, or if I want to go back to Utah. Of course I want to go back to Utah! Now that I've been and know what it's like out there and have developed relationships with some incredibly special people, I think if I don't go back eventually that I will go crazy. Whether I go for a long weekend visit once in awhile... for summer work... for two years of school at Salt Lake Theological Seminary... for inner-city mission work for the rest of my life... I will go back. But for now, I know that I need to be elsewhere. It killed me to realize that and let God take over, but at the same time it's giving me life. And that's where I find rest. Knowing that it's God's will and that His plan for me is the best plan for me.
' "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." '
[Jeremiah 29:11-13]
Hm. How many times have I used these verses so far? Three?
I think I'm starting to see a theme here.
Suck it up.
Get over it.
It's not a big deal.
I keep saying these things to myself, in regards to not being in Salt Lake. I'm homesick for Utah. How crazy is that? I was there for ten months and I miss it like no other. I said it in my other blog, too, but I'm not too proud to say it again and again and again. Because never before had I experienced LIFE the way I did when I lived in SLC.
And you know, sometimes you just have to say what you're thinking.
I miss walking around campus. I miss reading on the city library's roof. I miss riding TRAX. I miss leaving notes on the boys' apartment door. I miss walking the Red Butte trails. I miss seeing snow on the mountains surrounding the valley. I miss crossing the Legacy Bridge on winter mornings on the way to weightlifting. I miss sipping piping hot Americano in CoffeeBreak.
But most of all, I miss the people I met.
I miss listening to Darcy's hilarious stories.
I miss God-talks with Matt.
I miss Shawn's dancing and prancing around.
I miss hearing Spencer make fun of Brittany.
I miss hearing Tiffany make fun of Spencer.
I miss Zach's quiet nonchalance.
I miss Katie's humorous quips.
I miss learning about Ross' reckless ideas.
I miss Kastin's amazing hugs.
I miss random talks with Landon about nothing and everything.
I miss Ricky's quiet enthusiasm.
I miss Jackie's passionate outbursts.
I miss listening to Ben leading praise at Ute-Nited.
I miss Katie C's contagious laughter.
I miss thinking and thinking and thinking about David's questions.
I miss experiencing Jess' excitement about small group.
I could go on forever with these 'I miss' statements - especially about specific people - but I'm not going to waste my time grieving over the fact that I'm not in Salt Lake City at this point in time and that there are people, places and things that I miss.
My dad has kept on asking me if I'm sure I want to go to school in Missouri, or if I want to go back to Utah. Of course I want to go back to Utah! Now that I've been and know what it's like out there and have developed relationships with some incredibly special people, I think if I don't go back eventually that I will go crazy. Whether I go for a long weekend visit once in awhile... for summer work... for two years of school at Salt Lake Theological Seminary... for inner-city mission work for the rest of my life... I will go back. But for now, I know that I need to be elsewhere. It killed me to realize that and let God take over, but at the same time it's giving me life. And that's where I find rest. Knowing that it's God's will and that His plan for me is the best plan for me.
' "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." '
[Jeremiah 29:11-13]
Hm. How many times have I used these verses so far? Three?
I think I'm starting to see a theme here.
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