'But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.'
[Titus 3:4-7]
17. September 2010 Edit:
I think these verses really show us how blessed we are as believers. God sent His Son because He is kind and loving... and Christ embodied those qualities like no one before Him. We know these things through His Word and we learn that He died to save us. Because He is also merciful. And when we realize these things and call upon Him as our Lord and Savior, His Holy Spirit is given to us as a gift. Indeed, He is generous. Gracious. And eternity is ours to spend with Him. Life in the fullest.
January 31, 2009
January 30, 2009
Ch. 322 - Fears and Faithfulness
I have yet another devotional that I received to share with you today. This was actually the final installation of a three-part series, but I liked it the best of the three and wanted to post it. Now I will be able to have it for the rest of time. Fantastic.
What Does God Know About You?
'Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
[Hebrews 4:13]
God knows your fears. God knows everything that gets you stressed out. For instance, many of us today are concerned about the economy, and so we have financial fears.
And then we act as if God is unaware of our bills. “Don’t you see, God? I’m going under! I’m not going to make it!” We’re trying to stretch and make ends meet. We get uptight, upset, and we worry. But worry is the result of not realizing the omniscience of God.
When we think that God doesn’t know what’s going on in our lives, then we think we have to take matters into our own hands. In effect, we’re saying, “I’ll be God.” Worrying is taking responsibility for things God never intended you to have.
The truth is God is aware of all your needs. Prayer is never giving information to God. The Bible says, "… Your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:8). He’s aware of every single need you have: financial needs, spiritual needs, sexual needs, social needs, emotional needs.
God knows your faithfulness. Here’s another benefit from the truth that God knows everything: He sees everything you do that is good and right. Every time you choose not to sin, every time you resist temptation, every time you take a stand because of God’s Truth, he sees your faithfulness to him.
The Bible says every good deed will be rewarded, no matter how insignificant and regardless of whether anybody else on earth sees it. Every encouragement you give to other people, every kind word you give to your children, every time you do a thoughtful act for your husband, every time you pick up around the office when it’s not your job, every time you set up chairs in church or stuff bulletins, every act of courtesy, every time you refuse to gossip, every time you’re positive instead of negative – God sees it all, no matter how small (Matthew 10:40-42).
Imagine yourself on a giant stage and you’re the only person on that stage. You’re acting out your life. In the audience there is only one person and it’s God. He’s out there clapping and saying, “I see that good thing you just did. Keep on going! Nobody else saw it, but I did. I know that thought you just had and I know it was a positive good thought. I saw it.”
So what should be my response? If God sees all the good things that I do and he’s out there cheering me on, then my response should be, “Don’t Be Discouraged!”
Some of you may be saying, “I’ve been trying to do the right thing in my marriage. I don’t see any results. I’ve been trying to be the right kind of person and respond correctly with my kids or to my parents. I’ve been trying to do the right thing at work or at school. And I don’t know if it’s paying off. I don’t see it making any difference in anybody’s life.”
Knowing the truth – that God knows everything in your life, can either be very disturbing or very comforting. It depends on your relationship to him, whether you’re trying to fool him or not.
· God know your faults and failures, but he still loves you unconditionally.
· God knows your feelings and frustrations, and he sees your hurt more than anyone else can.
· God knows your future, so he can tell what you need to know.
· God knows your fears, and he wants you to hand your worries over to him.
· God knows your faithfulness because he sees every good thing you do.
The fact that God knows everything is a tremendous motivator for me to live a godly life. I realize that nothing in my life is in secret; nothing I face will hinder his ability to help me; nothing that is to come will catch him by surprise; nothing I fear will be too big for God’s strength; and nothing I do in his name is ever done in vain.
What Does God Know About You?
'Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
[Hebrews 4:13]
God knows your fears. God knows everything that gets you stressed out. For instance, many of us today are concerned about the economy, and so we have financial fears.
And then we act as if God is unaware of our bills. “Don’t you see, God? I’m going under! I’m not going to make it!” We’re trying to stretch and make ends meet. We get uptight, upset, and we worry. But worry is the result of not realizing the omniscience of God.
When we think that God doesn’t know what’s going on in our lives, then we think we have to take matters into our own hands. In effect, we’re saying, “I’ll be God.” Worrying is taking responsibility for things God never intended you to have.
The truth is God is aware of all your needs. Prayer is never giving information to God. The Bible says, "… Your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:8). He’s aware of every single need you have: financial needs, spiritual needs, sexual needs, social needs, emotional needs.
God knows your faithfulness. Here’s another benefit from the truth that God knows everything: He sees everything you do that is good and right. Every time you choose not to sin, every time you resist temptation, every time you take a stand because of God’s Truth, he sees your faithfulness to him.
The Bible says every good deed will be rewarded, no matter how insignificant and regardless of whether anybody else on earth sees it. Every encouragement you give to other people, every kind word you give to your children, every time you do a thoughtful act for your husband, every time you pick up around the office when it’s not your job, every time you set up chairs in church or stuff bulletins, every act of courtesy, every time you refuse to gossip, every time you’re positive instead of negative – God sees it all, no matter how small (Matthew 10:40-42).
Imagine yourself on a giant stage and you’re the only person on that stage. You’re acting out your life. In the audience there is only one person and it’s God. He’s out there clapping and saying, “I see that good thing you just did. Keep on going! Nobody else saw it, but I did. I know that thought you just had and I know it was a positive good thought. I saw it.”
So what should be my response? If God sees all the good things that I do and he’s out there cheering me on, then my response should be, “Don’t Be Discouraged!”
Some of you may be saying, “I’ve been trying to do the right thing in my marriage. I don’t see any results. I’ve been trying to be the right kind of person and respond correctly with my kids or to my parents. I’ve been trying to do the right thing at work or at school. And I don’t know if it’s paying off. I don’t see it making any difference in anybody’s life.”
Knowing the truth – that God knows everything in your life, can either be very disturbing or very comforting. It depends on your relationship to him, whether you’re trying to fool him or not.
· God know your faults and failures, but he still loves you unconditionally.
· God knows your feelings and frustrations, and he sees your hurt more than anyone else can.
· God knows your future, so he can tell what you need to know.
· God knows your fears, and he wants you to hand your worries over to him.
· God knows your faithfulness because he sees every good thing you do.
The fact that God knows everything is a tremendous motivator for me to live a godly life. I realize that nothing in my life is in secret; nothing I face will hinder his ability to help me; nothing that is to come will catch him by surprise; nothing I fear will be too big for God’s strength; and nothing I do in his name is ever done in vain.
January 29, 2009
Ch. 321 - A Stolen Breath
[The New Jerusalem]
'Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars - their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." '
[Revelation 21:1-8]
These were the verses I read today to start a class. At the beginning of the semester our teacher had us volunteer for certain days to read and pray. As soon as I spotted these verses from Revelation, I wanted to volunteer to read them (Revelation is my favorite book of the Bible). I love reading the Bible aloud, so this was a great three or four minutes for me - especially since it was of Revelation. I couldn't tell you how many times I've read these verses... yet as I was reading them to the class this morning, there was a catch in my throat and my breath was stolen for a beat as I read, "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End." And I smiled. It was a great way to start the day.
'Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars - their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death." '
[Revelation 21:1-8]
These were the verses I read today to start a class. At the beginning of the semester our teacher had us volunteer for certain days to read and pray. As soon as I spotted these verses from Revelation, I wanted to volunteer to read them (Revelation is my favorite book of the Bible). I love reading the Bible aloud, so this was a great three or four minutes for me - especially since it was of Revelation. I couldn't tell you how many times I've read these verses... yet as I was reading them to the class this morning, there was a catch in my throat and my breath was stolen for a beat as I read, "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End." And I smiled. It was a great way to start the day.
January 28, 2009
Ch. 320 - Getting it Right
I think I've got a case of the mid-winter blues, if you know what I mean. When this happens, I pick up on every little, negative thing - and attach to it. I nurture it. Develop it. And soon it becomes part of me.
It's not good.
Or fun.
But I do it anyway - yet not consciously. I do this to the point where I am tense, nervous, irritable, and simply upset. Emotional, really. There are things that I may be unhappy about and that unhappiness intensifies until I am an absolute mess... even though I do not realize it until after that beautiful release.
And that was what happened tonight. A few things had been irking me (and technically still are), and because of some negativity I had picked up on the past couple days, it all became worse in my eyes. I wanted to call my mom and simply say, "I love you." So I did. Then she started talking about her new job and I, disrespectfully, only half-listened as I doodled on a sheet of paper the same word over and over and over. Tired. Tired. Tired. Tired. Tired. That's what I was. Am. One thing led to another, however, and I was able to get a few words in on what I was feeling. Then it happened. The floodgates opened and tear after tear rolled down my face. My mom and I talked a bit more. Advice. Encouragement. "I love you." But I was left unfilled. I was not satisfied and I continued to silently weep in the corner I had crawled into in Pelfrey Hall's lobby. I needed to talk to someone else. Anyone. I needed a friend's perspective. Help. And I wanted a hug.
I contacted someone who always responds.
No reply.
I tried someone else.
No reply.
And another.
No reply.
And yet another.
No reply.
"Last one," I thought.
No reply.
Each of these people are always there for me.
They are good friends. Great people.
No reply.
I started to get upset. All I wanted was five - no, two! - minutes of someone's time. Was that too much to ask for? Why was nobody answering?
It took about an hour sitting silently in my self-pity for the reason to appear in my mind.
......
Jesus.
[Bet you didn't see that one coming.]
Typical. All I had to do was turn my heart and mind to God. So I did.
You're not going to believe this, but I felt so much better after I talked to Him.
He wanted me to call on Him.
He is always there.
He wants me to rely and trust in Him.
He has all the answers.
He has my life in His hands.
I am a fool.
'"Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him." '
[Daniel 2:20-22]
It's not good.
Or fun.
But I do it anyway - yet not consciously. I do this to the point where I am tense, nervous, irritable, and simply upset. Emotional, really. There are things that I may be unhappy about and that unhappiness intensifies until I am an absolute mess... even though I do not realize it until after that beautiful release.
And that was what happened tonight. A few things had been irking me (and technically still are), and because of some negativity I had picked up on the past couple days, it all became worse in my eyes. I wanted to call my mom and simply say, "I love you." So I did. Then she started talking about her new job and I, disrespectfully, only half-listened as I doodled on a sheet of paper the same word over and over and over. Tired. Tired. Tired. Tired. Tired. That's what I was. Am. One thing led to another, however, and I was able to get a few words in on what I was feeling. Then it happened. The floodgates opened and tear after tear rolled down my face. My mom and I talked a bit more. Advice. Encouragement. "I love you." But I was left unfilled. I was not satisfied and I continued to silently weep in the corner I had crawled into in Pelfrey Hall's lobby. I needed to talk to someone else. Anyone. I needed a friend's perspective. Help. And I wanted a hug.
I contacted someone who always responds.
No reply.
I tried someone else.
No reply.
And another.
No reply.
And yet another.
No reply.
"Last one," I thought.
No reply.
Each of these people are always there for me.
They are good friends. Great people.
No reply.
I started to get upset. All I wanted was five - no, two! - minutes of someone's time. Was that too much to ask for? Why was nobody answering?
It took about an hour sitting silently in my self-pity for the reason to appear in my mind.
......
Jesus.
[Bet you didn't see that one coming.]
Typical. All I had to do was turn my heart and mind to God. So I did.
You're not going to believe this, but I felt so much better after I talked to Him.
He wanted me to call on Him.
He is always there.
He wants me to rely and trust in Him.
He has all the answers.
He has my life in His hands.
I am a fool.
'"Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him." '
[Daniel 2:20-22]
January 27, 2009
Ch. 319 - I am Loved
I am more loved than I can imagine.
You are more loved than you can imagine.
'How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.'
[1 John 3:1]
You are more loved than you can imagine.
'How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.'
[1 John 3:1]
January 26, 2009
Ch. 318 - Finding Strength
'But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.'
[2 Corinthians 12:9]
I am absolutely taking this verse out of context, but I have been feeling weak lately. I am tired. I feel that I can't do or say anything right. I have not been real. I don't work on my relationship with God enough. I focus on people and my studies more than Him. I don't know how to confront a couple of problems in my life or how to deal with them. I don't share the Gospel. I am not strengthening my faith or challenging myself.
But I still rely on God to hold me in His hand and to help me use His strength to persevere through all my obstacles and weaknesses that I feel are holding me back. It is certainly difficult to do so; it's difficult to hold my head high and not let anything get to me. Yet I know that by relying on Christ, His Spirit will work through me and with me to take on anything that comes my way. He will make me strong. I will find rest in Him. I will find peace in Him.
And at this point in time, those things are exactly what I need.
Pray.
[2 Corinthians 12:9]
I am absolutely taking this verse out of context, but I have been feeling weak lately. I am tired. I feel that I can't do or say anything right. I have not been real. I don't work on my relationship with God enough. I focus on people and my studies more than Him. I don't know how to confront a couple of problems in my life or how to deal with them. I don't share the Gospel. I am not strengthening my faith or challenging myself.
But I still rely on God to hold me in His hand and to help me use His strength to persevere through all my obstacles and weaknesses that I feel are holding me back. It is certainly difficult to do so; it's difficult to hold my head high and not let anything get to me. Yet I know that by relying on Christ, His Spirit will work through me and with me to take on anything that comes my way. He will make me strong. I will find rest in Him. I will find peace in Him.
And at this point in time, those things are exactly what I need.
Pray.
January 25, 2009
Ch. 317 - Turning Around
I think I have figured out what my purpose for this year is. I hope that makes sense. I just hope it's really what God wants me to do. I'm having a bit of trouble discerning whether it's me or Him that wants this. I'm really going to have to pray about it. But the prospect is exciting, nonetheless. ... Which means I need to pray about it even more and make sure that it's not me.
God is good.
All the time.
God loves.
All the time.
God forgives.
All the time.
I love that.
'Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.'
[Colossians 3:13-15]
God is good.
All the time.
God loves.
All the time.
God forgives.
All the time.
I love that.
'Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.'
[Colossians 3:13-15]
January 24, 2009
Ch. 316 - Speaking Wisdom
I have been reading Proverbs a lot lately.
And I mean a lot.
I can't seem to get enough of them. I love the book of Proverbs because every time you turn to it, it's like reading something new. Different sayings will jump out at you, speak to your heart, or convict you, depending on where you are in your walk with God and what's going on in your life. It just goes to show that the word of God is relevant. Living. Beneficial.
[A couple have really been making me think. I love that.]
'Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord - how much more the hearts of men!'
[Proverb 15:11]
'In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.'
[Proverb 16:9]
And I mean a lot.
I can't seem to get enough of them. I love the book of Proverbs because every time you turn to it, it's like reading something new. Different sayings will jump out at you, speak to your heart, or convict you, depending on where you are in your walk with God and what's going on in your life. It just goes to show that the word of God is relevant. Living. Beneficial.
[A couple have really been making me think. I love that.]
'Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord - how much more the hearts of men!'
[Proverb 15:11]
'In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.'
[Proverb 16:9]
January 23, 2009
Ch. 315 - Be a Sanctuary
'Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary,
pure and holy, tried and true.
With thanksgiving, I'll be a living
Sanctuary for You.'
A sanctuary is something set apart by God for God. It is a place where God dwells.
Being a sanctuary includes the absence of profanity and defilement.
Being a sanctuary includes the acceptance of responsibility to be a standard of value.
Being a sanctuary includes giving help to those in need.
Be humbled that God has chosen you to be a sanctuary for Him.
Be open to His searching and cleansing of your heart.
Let His Spirit lead you.
'For this is what the high and lofty One says - he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." '
[Isaiah 57:15]
pure and holy, tried and true.
With thanksgiving, I'll be a living
Sanctuary for You.'
A sanctuary is something set apart by God for God. It is a place where God dwells.
Being a sanctuary includes the absence of profanity and defilement.
Being a sanctuary includes the acceptance of responsibility to be a standard of value.
Being a sanctuary includes giving help to those in need.
Be humbled that God has chosen you to be a sanctuary for Him.
Be open to His searching and cleansing of your heart.
Let His Spirit lead you.
'For this is what the high and lofty One says - he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." '
[Isaiah 57:15]
January 22, 2009
Ch. 314 - With God
Ohhhhhh, context... fantastic.
'Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." '
[Mark 10:27]
'Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." '
[Mark 10:27]
January 21, 2009
Ch. 313 - Say What You Mean
We are a 'cell phone society'.
We text.
We call to talk.
We say anything and everything that's on our minds.
We are quick and to the point.
We don't filter our thoughts as we say them.
We are loud, bold, and obnoxious.
The age-old rule of 'Think before you speak' seems, at times, long gone. Do we care? No. But what happens when we do not think before we speak in terms of God? And when we speak to others whom we truly care about? I think we use the fact that our God forgives and loves as an excuse to say things we shouldn't. And I think we use the excuse that because those whom we care know we love them no matter what, they won't truly mind if we say something we should not.
Our God has set standards for us. As Christians, we need to strive to not only meet the bar, but raise it. We cannot take love for granted. We can use it for good, but we can also use it for bad - in terms of deception and such. We need to say what we mean... and mean what we say. As cliché as that may sound, it is sound advice. Don't say one thing and mean another. Don't say something hurtful and immediately say, "I'm just kidding!" or "Oh gosh, I'm sorry! That was mean, wasn't it?" Usually, there is at least a bit of truth in your mind to what you say. I won't hide it - I am a prime example of one who says things that should not be said, and then uses one of the mentioned exclamations to excuse myself.
This is unacceptable.
I say that I am striving to be more Christlike, but this is certainly one obstacle that I must overcome in order to truly move forwards. I need to consciously make an effort to control my tongue and encourage others. I don't think I bring people down, necessarily, but I certainly could speak to them in a more positive light. To tell you the truth, I have been working on this for the past couple of years... but I am not very diligent in practicing this discipline. I know what kind of woman God wants me to be. And I know that if I try hard enough, I can be her. I already am... I'm simply unrefined. Rough around the edges, if you will. But God will refine me, smooth me, mold me. Beautiful.
'I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. The Lord has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death. Open for me the gates of righteousness; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord. This is the gate of the Lord through which the righteous may enter. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.'
[Psalm 118:17-21]
We text.
We call to talk.
We say anything and everything that's on our minds.
We are quick and to the point.
We don't filter our thoughts as we say them.
We are loud, bold, and obnoxious.
The age-old rule of 'Think before you speak' seems, at times, long gone. Do we care? No. But what happens when we do not think before we speak in terms of God? And when we speak to others whom we truly care about? I think we use the fact that our God forgives and loves as an excuse to say things we shouldn't. And I think we use the excuse that because those whom we care know we love them no matter what, they won't truly mind if we say something we should not.
Our God has set standards for us. As Christians, we need to strive to not only meet the bar, but raise it. We cannot take love for granted. We can use it for good, but we can also use it for bad - in terms of deception and such. We need to say what we mean... and mean what we say. As cliché as that may sound, it is sound advice. Don't say one thing and mean another. Don't say something hurtful and immediately say, "I'm just kidding!" or "Oh gosh, I'm sorry! That was mean, wasn't it?" Usually, there is at least a bit of truth in your mind to what you say. I won't hide it - I am a prime example of one who says things that should not be said, and then uses one of the mentioned exclamations to excuse myself.
This is unacceptable.
I say that I am striving to be more Christlike, but this is certainly one obstacle that I must overcome in order to truly move forwards. I need to consciously make an effort to control my tongue and encourage others. I don't think I bring people down, necessarily, but I certainly could speak to them in a more positive light. To tell you the truth, I have been working on this for the past couple of years... but I am not very diligent in practicing this discipline. I know what kind of woman God wants me to be. And I know that if I try hard enough, I can be her. I already am... I'm simply unrefined. Rough around the edges, if you will. But God will refine me, smooth me, mold me. Beautiful.
'I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. The Lord has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death. Open for me the gates of righteousness; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord. This is the gate of the Lord through which the righteous may enter. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.'
[Psalm 118:17-21]
January 20, 2009
Ch. 312 - Matters of the Heart
Anxiety seems to surround students here.
Homework.
Tests.
Ministries.
Relationships.
Family issues.
Work.
The list goes on.
... Where is the encouragement?
'An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.'
[Proverb 12:25]
Homework.
Tests.
Ministries.
Relationships.
Family issues.
Work.
The list goes on.
... Where is the encouragement?
'An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.'
[Proverb 12:25]
January 19, 2009
Ch. 311 - Saltiness
Create a thirst in others for God.
' "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men." '
[Matthew 5:13]
' "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men." '
[Matthew 5:13]
January 18, 2009
Ch. 310 - Obey
Disciples obey God.
I don't think we can love God and not obey Him.
'This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world.'
[1 John 5:2-4]
I don't think we can love God and not obey Him.
'This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world.'
[1 John 5:2-4]
January 17, 2009
Ch. 309 - One More Lesson Learned
God is really working with me on not judging others. I have been asking for His help with this problem for a while now. I am slowly learning my lesson... I actually really enjoy the way God is teaching me about not judging others, because in the process I get to know people better and gain friends. I would never dream of complaining about something like that! God knows what He's doing, that's for sure. But that shouldn't come as a surprise. I mean, He is God, after all.
'If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you...'
[Exodus 33:13]
'If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you...'
[Exodus 33:13]
January 16, 2009
Ch. 308 - Always Rested
I am three days into the semester... and I am tired. I haven't been doing a whole lot, though. I mean, I've done a few homework assignments, including preparing a speech for Oral Communications that I presented today. I'm sure that's part of it - I stayed up somewhat later than I would have liked to, practicing my speech. So I only got approximately five hours of sleep. But then today after classes I took a four-hour nap! ... Yet I'm more tired now than I was before I took the nap. I've been focusing on my being tired so much today, that I haven't thought about much else, to be honest. It's hard to focus on God and others when I'm just thinking about me. It's terrible. And I don't like it. But it's nice to know that I can find rest in God, who never tires or grows weary. He is my strength. Praise God!
'Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.'
[Isaiah 40:28]
'Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.'
[Isaiah 40:28]
January 15, 2009
Ch. 307 - Good to All
' "If you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even "sinners" do that." '
[Luke 6:33]
This is so difficult to do. Do good to those who are not good to you, that is. It is most certainly a challenge. But imagine how pleased our Lord God is with us when we put down our pride, push away our stubborn tendencies, and allow the Spirit to take over the soul and body. Do good.
[Luke 6:33]
This is so difficult to do. Do good to those who are not good to you, that is. It is most certainly a challenge. But imagine how pleased our Lord God is with us when we put down our pride, push away our stubborn tendencies, and allow the Spirit to take over the soul and body. Do good.
January 14, 2009
Ch. 306 - Something to Work On
'Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.'
[1 John 4:7]
Do you know God?
Can others tell whether you do based on the love that you show?
[1 John 4:7]
Do you know God?
Can others tell whether you do based on the love that you show?
January 13, 2009
Ch. 305 - Justified
'Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.'
[Romans 5:1-2]
Justified.
Peacce.
Access... faith.
Rejoice.
[Romans 5:1-2]
Justified.
Peacce.
Access... faith.
Rejoice.
January 12, 2009
Ch. 304 - Light as a Feather
I am doing my best to think before I speak nowadays. I think it's important to do so. Yet sometimes I find myself just talking and talking without thinking.
At times like these, I usually find myself thinking one of two things, either: 1) '... Did I really just say that? I don't believe myself.'; or 2) 'Wow - that actually makes sense. Way to be totally legit, Natalie.' However, there is one time when I don't think before I speak and don't know what to think afterward. I'm so dumbfounded or stricken with awe that my mind simply goes blank and my tongue is silenced. This has not happened but a handful of times. These are the times when I feel that I do not do the talking, but instead the Holy Spirit does. It's like God just completely takes over and I don't know I would ever say what I end up saying. I hope that makes sense. The times it has happened I have been in intercessory prayers with a friend and simply talking to others. And I definitely didn't realize it was the Holy Spirit until after the prayers and conversations. I feel that God really works for the best in these situations, as tough or awkward as they may seem at the time. The situations I've experienced when this has happened included words of comfort, confession, or encouragement. Looking back, I have realized that in every situation I ended up growing in some way and that my faith was really strengthened. It sure is interesting how God reaches out at times. Sometimes it takes some pretty deep measures to wake you up, get you over an obstacle, or lift a weight that you've been carrying around for awhile. The Holy Spirit also works in interesting ways through prayer and the fact that He can speak for us when we cannot or do not know what to say. God constantly knows our needs and our thoughts. Times of prayer when He seems all the more with you and speaks for you are beautiful reminders of His love for you. We are His children and He truly cares for us.
'In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.'
[Romans 8:26-27]
At times like these, I usually find myself thinking one of two things, either: 1) '... Did I really just say that? I don't believe myself.'; or 2) 'Wow - that actually makes sense. Way to be totally legit, Natalie.' However, there is one time when I don't think before I speak and don't know what to think afterward. I'm so dumbfounded or stricken with awe that my mind simply goes blank and my tongue is silenced. This has not happened but a handful of times. These are the times when I feel that I do not do the talking, but instead the Holy Spirit does. It's like God just completely takes over and I don't know I would ever say what I end up saying. I hope that makes sense. The times it has happened I have been in intercessory prayers with a friend and simply talking to others. And I definitely didn't realize it was the Holy Spirit until after the prayers and conversations. I feel that God really works for the best in these situations, as tough or awkward as they may seem at the time. The situations I've experienced when this has happened included words of comfort, confession, or encouragement. Looking back, I have realized that in every situation I ended up growing in some way and that my faith was really strengthened. It sure is interesting how God reaches out at times. Sometimes it takes some pretty deep measures to wake you up, get you over an obstacle, or lift a weight that you've been carrying around for awhile. The Holy Spirit also works in interesting ways through prayer and the fact that He can speak for us when we cannot or do not know what to say. God constantly knows our needs and our thoughts. Times of prayer when He seems all the more with you and speaks for you are beautiful reminders of His love for you. We are His children and He truly cares for us.
'In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.'
[Romans 8:26-27]
January 11, 2009
Ch. 303 - Desires
'Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.'
[Isaiah 26:8]
16. September 2010 Edit:
I find it interesting that my post for today [16. September 2010] is about Psalm 73:52b, which says, '... And earth has nothing I desire besides you.' That is how God made us, I think. To fully desire Him... even when we do not realize it. We are always striving to fill ourselves in some way. But our hearts cry out for the Living God.
[Isaiah 26:8]
16. September 2010 Edit:
I find it interesting that my post for today [16. September 2010] is about Psalm 73:52b, which says, '... And earth has nothing I desire besides you.' That is how God made us, I think. To fully desire Him... even when we do not realize it. We are always striving to fill ourselves in some way. But our hearts cry out for the Living God.
January 10, 2009
Ch. 302 - Aloud
I find myself cringing when I think about how many times I have seemingly been ashamed of my faith. Perhaps 'ashamed' is not the best choice of words... I mean, perhaps embarrassed, even, is more fitting.
Either way, it's appalling.
Absolutely appalling.
Even so, it's the truth.
And sometimes the truth is unpleasant and ugly when viewed.
But often enough there is also a lot of beauty to the truth.
You can learn a lot from the truth, as well.
... That makes me think about Jesus. When He was on the cross, He was not daintily hung without flaw or stain, such as in some paintings we see or the sculptures that we can reach out and touch and hold. Jesus was perfect, yes. He was without vice. But when He was beaten by Roman soldiers and crucified, He became physically imperfect. His flesh hung in strips. His back was cut open and deeply inflicted with wounds. Blood streamed down His body and dried on his arms, hands, stomach, legs, and feet. His hair, I'm sure, was a matted mess. Dirt of the road to Gol'gotha - 'the place of a skull' - clung to Him. And then His hands and feet were hewn to rough pieces of wood. By that point in time, I believe it is safe to say that Jesus was, in short, ugly. He was unpleasant to look at. But to many people, He was quite possibly the most beautiful man they had ever laid eyes on. He brought so much good to this world. To us. To you, to me. He brought Life. And He was the Truth. He is the Truth.
How could I ever be embarrassed of that?
I don't want people to get the wrong idea about me.
I mean, Christians are conservative, close-minded, self-righteous, science-hating hypocrites!
Right?
Well, I think it's reasonable to say that there are Christians in this world that fit this description...
but that's how a lot of people view most Christians, and that's not fair.
"What are you going to do about it?"
... Good question. But that's another post for another day.
But how is it that I, a girl who wants to spread the Gospel to all nations, am afraid of living my faith out loud?
I have friends who do not know Jesus the way I do. They call themselves Christian, but they do not have a relationship with Christ. They live in ways that are completely different from the way that I do. But when they say or do something that makes me upset or uncomfortable, do I say anything? No. I'm not worried about losing their friendship; friends come and go. I could bring out the Jesus card, but... they're 'Christians', remember? "They know." When I go running or go on a walk, I usually pray and sing worship songs out loud - when nobody's around, that is. Otherwise, I pray and sing the songs in my head. Why? Why do I have to stop speaking and singing when someone comes into view and then resume when they're out of earshot? It's not that I'm self-conscious about my voice. It's not that I'm scared people will think I'm talking to myself and that I'm crazy. These things do not matter to me. Yet for some reason, when faith is involved... it obviously does matter to me. And I hate that. I can honestly say that I hate it. Mind you, I use the word 'hate' very, very, very little.
I could talk about God with friends and family [and even strangers] for hours.
Do I? No.
I could read my Bible when I'm not in class or church or trying to have 'alone time'.
Do I? No.
I could pray and talk to God [out loud] during all of my free time.
Do I? No.
Right now I can't help but think of the teaching of Jesus about the hypocrites praying on the street corners and in the synagogues to be seen by man, as well as praying with many words to feel like they've been heard [Matthew 6:5-8]. I don't want to say that I'm afraid of being like those hypocrites. I mean, that very well could be part of it. I have had my share of experiences with pride; I have both been around people with pride complexes that reach to the sky... and I have felt a lot of pride on my own behalf. However, I really think it's more than that.
I feel like there's so much more I could be doing with my faith.
For others.
For God.
And, to be honest, for myself.
To learn.
To grow.
However, I am realizing that a lot of what I am thinking and feeling may have to do with praise.
I could praise God every hour of every day.
Do I?
.......
No.
I do not give God enough praise.
My actions do not give Him the glory He deserves.
My words do not give Him the thanks He deserves.
I do not give Him enough admiration.
I do not give Him enough devotion.
'Worship is a lifestyle.'
I say that a lot.
A lot.
But I most certainly do not follow through with what I say.
Enough is enough.
It will not do to be ashamed.
Guilty.
Embarrassed.
How dare I?
After Christ was ridiculed, scorned, and mocked, I simply have no excuse.
No right.
If anything, I should be ashamed of myself.
'Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels." '
[Luke 9:23-26]
......
Ch. 302, Part Two:
Please watch this video. It is fantastic.
Either way, it's appalling.
Absolutely appalling.
Even so, it's the truth.
And sometimes the truth is unpleasant and ugly when viewed.
But often enough there is also a lot of beauty to the truth.
You can learn a lot from the truth, as well.
... That makes me think about Jesus. When He was on the cross, He was not daintily hung without flaw or stain, such as in some paintings we see or the sculptures that we can reach out and touch and hold. Jesus was perfect, yes. He was without vice. But when He was beaten by Roman soldiers and crucified, He became physically imperfect. His flesh hung in strips. His back was cut open and deeply inflicted with wounds. Blood streamed down His body and dried on his arms, hands, stomach, legs, and feet. His hair, I'm sure, was a matted mess. Dirt of the road to Gol'gotha - 'the place of a skull' - clung to Him. And then His hands and feet were hewn to rough pieces of wood. By that point in time, I believe it is safe to say that Jesus was, in short, ugly. He was unpleasant to look at. But to many people, He was quite possibly the most beautiful man they had ever laid eyes on. He brought so much good to this world. To us. To you, to me. He brought Life. And He was the Truth. He is the Truth.
How could I ever be embarrassed of that?
I don't want people to get the wrong idea about me.
I mean, Christians are conservative, close-minded, self-righteous, science-hating hypocrites!
Right?
Well, I think it's reasonable to say that there are Christians in this world that fit this description...
but that's how a lot of people view most Christians, and that's not fair.
"What are you going to do about it?"
... Good question. But that's another post for another day.
But how is it that I, a girl who wants to spread the Gospel to all nations, am afraid of living my faith out loud?
I have friends who do not know Jesus the way I do. They call themselves Christian, but they do not have a relationship with Christ. They live in ways that are completely different from the way that I do. But when they say or do something that makes me upset or uncomfortable, do I say anything? No. I'm not worried about losing their friendship; friends come and go. I could bring out the Jesus card, but... they're 'Christians', remember? "They know." When I go running or go on a walk, I usually pray and sing worship songs out loud - when nobody's around, that is. Otherwise, I pray and sing the songs in my head. Why? Why do I have to stop speaking and singing when someone comes into view and then resume when they're out of earshot? It's not that I'm self-conscious about my voice. It's not that I'm scared people will think I'm talking to myself and that I'm crazy. These things do not matter to me. Yet for some reason, when faith is involved... it obviously does matter to me. And I hate that. I can honestly say that I hate it. Mind you, I use the word 'hate' very, very, very little.
I could talk about God with friends and family [and even strangers] for hours.
Do I? No.
I could read my Bible when I'm not in class or church or trying to have 'alone time'.
Do I? No.
I could pray and talk to God [out loud] during all of my free time.
Do I? No.
Right now I can't help but think of the teaching of Jesus about the hypocrites praying on the street corners and in the synagogues to be seen by man, as well as praying with many words to feel like they've been heard [Matthew 6:5-8]. I don't want to say that I'm afraid of being like those hypocrites. I mean, that very well could be part of it. I have had my share of experiences with pride; I have both been around people with pride complexes that reach to the sky... and I have felt a lot of pride on my own behalf. However, I really think it's more than that.
I feel like there's so much more I could be doing with my faith.
For others.
For God.
And, to be honest, for myself.
To learn.
To grow.
However, I am realizing that a lot of what I am thinking and feeling may have to do with praise.
I could praise God every hour of every day.
Do I?
.......
No.
I do not give God enough praise.
My actions do not give Him the glory He deserves.
My words do not give Him the thanks He deserves.
I do not give Him enough admiration.
I do not give Him enough devotion.
'Worship is a lifestyle.'
I say that a lot.
A lot.
But I most certainly do not follow through with what I say.
Enough is enough.
It will not do to be ashamed.
Guilty.
Embarrassed.
How dare I?
After Christ was ridiculed, scorned, and mocked, I simply have no excuse.
No right.
If anything, I should be ashamed of myself.
'Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels." '
[Luke 9:23-26]
......
Ch. 302, Part Two:
Please watch this video. It is fantastic.
January 9, 2009
Ch. 301 - MY Savior
'I will be joyful in God my Savior.'
[Habakkuk 3:18]
I love that I can be selfish with God.
Yes, I want to share Him with others...
but I am allowed to believe and know that He is my God.
He's not just some random figure in the clouds, telling us, "Don't do that!" or "Do this!" and throwing lightning bolts to smite us when He's angry.
I am a child of God. He is my Father.
And just as my dad is my dad, he is also 'dad' to my brother and sister; the same goes for God my Father.
He is yours.
He is mine.
I'm glad that's the way it is and will forever be.
[Habakkuk 3:18]
I love that I can be selfish with God.
Yes, I want to share Him with others...
but I am allowed to believe and know that He is my God.
He's not just some random figure in the clouds, telling us, "Don't do that!" or "Do this!" and throwing lightning bolts to smite us when He's angry.
I am a child of God. He is my Father.
And just as my dad is my dad, he is also 'dad' to my brother and sister; the same goes for God my Father.
He is yours.
He is mine.
I'm glad that's the way it is and will forever be.
January 8, 2009
Ch. 300 - The Copycat, Revisited
This is my last 'revisit' to posts from one year ago. On January 8, 2008 I wrote in my journal about being a copycat... an imitator, really, of Jesus Christ. It wasn't until about a year ago that I had ever thought and truly cared about being Christlike.
Since then, I have been more conscious of being a child of God, an imitator of God [Ephesians 5:1]. I'm always going to fall short of doing this, but that's okay with me. I will continue to strive to be Christlike and the fact that I want to be like Him and push on towards the prize is, I hope, just as pleasing to God.
I'm still learning what it means to be Christlike and while I do believe I have made some progress in this area, I know there is always room for improvement. And I'm glad for that.
'We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.'
[1 John 4:13-14]
Since then, I have been more conscious of being a child of God, an imitator of God [Ephesians 5:1]. I'm always going to fall short of doing this, but that's okay with me. I will continue to strive to be Christlike and the fact that I want to be like Him and push on towards the prize is, I hope, just as pleasing to God.
I'm still learning what it means to be Christlike and while I do believe I have made some progress in this area, I know there is always room for improvement. And I'm glad for that.
'We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.'
[1 John 4:13-14]
January 7, 2009
Ch. 299 - The Commitment, Revisited
On January 7, 2008 I wrote in my journal about a commitment I was in the process of making. This was a commitment to serving God and doing His will; it was spurred by a devotional - which, technically, stated the very commitment:
'I will live the rest of my life serving God's purposes with God's people on God's planet for God's glory. I will use my life to celebrate His presence, cultivate His character, participate in His family, demonstrate His love, and communicate His word.'
Intense.
At the time, I felt that call to commitment was an answer to prayer and I feel the same way today. I had been praying about what it was, exactly, that God wanted me to do and I had really felt a tug towards ministry. That, to say the least, was the beginning of a new journey. I mean, look where I am now. I was taken out of beautiful and wondrous Salt Lake City, Utah and placed at a small school in might-as-well-be-the-middle-of-nowhere, Missouri. Not to say that Moberly isn't beautiful and wondrous in its own ways, but I loved Salt Lake. There's no going around that. But it was a necessary move, I feel, and I don't regret making the decision to transfer. It was a difficult decision, yes... and challenges continue to manifest themselves, but that's life and challenges are going to present themselves to you regardless of where you are and what you are doing.
I feel that God placed this commitment on my heart entirely and I was completely ready when I decided to go with it and make it mine. Of course, I went through a few ups and downs after I did so, including a decision that I was not going to spend my time in a life of servitude to God, but instead go back to my original plan... the one that I knew for a fact was not God's plan for me. But I didn't care and I was going to go for it anyway. Well. As you may imagine, God said, "Nope." And I started to reply, "But, God -" That was as far as I got. He answered, "Natalie. NO." So I decided to completely embrace the act of trusting in God and doing His will. I committed my life to God once more and I have not looked back since. That was not a difficult decision to make whatsoever.
Here is another portion of the commitment of the devotional:
'Since my past has been forgiven, and I have a purpose for living and a home awaiting in heaven, I refuse to waste any more time or energy on shallow living, petty thinking, trivial talking, thoughtless doing, useless regretting, hurtful resenting, or faithless worrying. Instead I will magnify God, grow to maturity, serve in ministry, and fulfill my mission in the membership of his family.'
Sublime.
'Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.'
[Philippians 3:13b-14]
'I will live the rest of my life serving God's purposes with God's people on God's planet for God's glory. I will use my life to celebrate His presence, cultivate His character, participate in His family, demonstrate His love, and communicate His word.'
Intense.
At the time, I felt that call to commitment was an answer to prayer and I feel the same way today. I had been praying about what it was, exactly, that God wanted me to do and I had really felt a tug towards ministry. That, to say the least, was the beginning of a new journey. I mean, look where I am now. I was taken out of beautiful and wondrous Salt Lake City, Utah and placed at a small school in might-as-well-be-the-middle-of-nowhere, Missouri. Not to say that Moberly isn't beautiful and wondrous in its own ways, but I loved Salt Lake. There's no going around that. But it was a necessary move, I feel, and I don't regret making the decision to transfer. It was a difficult decision, yes... and challenges continue to manifest themselves, but that's life and challenges are going to present themselves to you regardless of where you are and what you are doing.
I feel that God placed this commitment on my heart entirely and I was completely ready when I decided to go with it and make it mine. Of course, I went through a few ups and downs after I did so, including a decision that I was not going to spend my time in a life of servitude to God, but instead go back to my original plan... the one that I knew for a fact was not God's plan for me. But I didn't care and I was going to go for it anyway. Well. As you may imagine, God said, "Nope." And I started to reply, "But, God -" That was as far as I got. He answered, "Natalie. NO." So I decided to completely embrace the act of trusting in God and doing His will. I committed my life to God once more and I have not looked back since. That was not a difficult decision to make whatsoever.
Here is another portion of the commitment of the devotional:
'Since my past has been forgiven, and I have a purpose for living and a home awaiting in heaven, I refuse to waste any more time or energy on shallow living, petty thinking, trivial talking, thoughtless doing, useless regretting, hurtful resenting, or faithless worrying. Instead I will magnify God, grow to maturity, serve in ministry, and fulfill my mission in the membership of his family.'
Sublime.
'Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.'
[Philippians 3:13b-14]
January 6, 2009
Ch. 298 - Keep This in Mind:
Prayer and attitude are two key factors in having a good day.
I'm not going to define 'good', because what is good to me may be bad to you and vice versa. But today was a good day, and I have no problem in contributing this to both prayer and having a certain attitude. Today was certainly better than yesterday, that's for sure. This is something I am completely thankful for. God is great.
'You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.'
[Ephesians 4:22-24]
I'm not going to define 'good', because what is good to me may be bad to you and vice versa. But today was a good day, and I have no problem in contributing this to both prayer and having a certain attitude. Today was certainly better than yesterday, that's for sure. This is something I am completely thankful for. God is great.
'You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.'
[Ephesians 4:22-24]
January 5, 2009
Ch. 297 - Joy
Jesus is my joy.
My joy is found in patience.
My joy is found in simplicity.
My joy is found in slowing down.
Jesus is my joy.
Just reminding myself, I suppose.
[It was difficult to find the joy today.]
'The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.'
[Psalm 19:8]
My joy is found in patience.
My joy is found in simplicity.
My joy is found in slowing down.
Jesus is my joy.
Just reminding myself, I suppose.
[It was difficult to find the joy today.]
'The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.'
[Psalm 19:8]
January 4, 2009
Ch. 296 - Strength
Something is not right. I don't know what. None of us do.
But God does.
And He is in control.
My mom is right, I can't worry. It won't do any good.
Everything may not be alright.
It's true.
But even though we do not know what is and is not right, life goes on.
Faith is strengthened through the good and the bad.
So for now - and forever more, to be honest, no matter what happens - I have joy. I have laughter. I have love. I have happiness. I have my God. And that is what truly matters.
' "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." '
[John 14:1]
But God does.
And He is in control.
My mom is right, I can't worry. It won't do any good.
Everything may not be alright.
It's true.
But even though we do not know what is and is not right, life goes on.
Faith is strengthened through the good and the bad.
So for now - and forever more, to be honest, no matter what happens - I have joy. I have laughter. I have love. I have happiness. I have my God. And that is what truly matters.
' "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." '
[John 14:1]
January 3, 2009
Ch. 295 - Small Answers Matter, Revisited
GOD IS GOOD. ALL THE TIME.
He is beautiful.
And gracious.
And loving.
And kind.
He has a plan for all.
That includes me.
That includes you.
He answers my prayers. Slowly but surely. He shows me that baby steps are important. He reminds me that patience is key... and to find joy in ALL situations, no matter how dire they may seem. He is in control. He strengthens us in our darkest times and reminds us that He is with us, even when we no longer think He is. I just hope that He shows Himself to a dear friend of mine before he turns away from God completely...
But guess what?
GOD IS GOOD. ALL THE TIME.
'When I called you, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.'
[Psalm 138:3]
He is beautiful.
And gracious.
And loving.
And kind.
He has a plan for all.
That includes me.
That includes you.
He answers my prayers. Slowly but surely. He shows me that baby steps are important. He reminds me that patience is key... and to find joy in ALL situations, no matter how dire they may seem. He is in control. He strengthens us in our darkest times and reminds us that He is with us, even when we no longer think He is. I just hope that He shows Himself to a dear friend of mine before he turns away from God completely...
But guess what?
GOD IS GOOD. ALL THE TIME.
'When I called you, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.'
[Psalm 138:3]
January 2, 2009
Ch. 294 - Side by Side
My life needs to revolve around Christ. You can die to self every day, but continue to walk with a few steps between you and Christ, rather than shoulder-to-shoulder, hip-to-hip. It's hard to walk that close with anybody for a long amount of time, let alone with Christ, with God - even though He is the only One I would ever want to walk that close with. But for the most part, it's just as nice to have a small space between myself and Christ on our walk. I can keep an eye on Him, hear everything He says, and not have to worry about getting separated too easily. At the same time, I am in touch with the aspects of my life that are outside of Christ and my faith. But I should always be more in tune with Christ than anything or anyone else. I should have my shoulders turned to Him as I walk. If I am to walk closely with Him, I need to live my life in such a way that is absolutely pleasing to Him. I need to worship Him with my life. If I am to walk closely with Him, everything I say and do needs to be in accordance with Him. Jesus may live with me and in me by way of the Holy Spirit, but I don't always live for Him. That needs to change.
'Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.'
[1 Thessalonians 4:1-2]
'Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.'
[1 Thessalonians 4:1-2]
January 1, 2009
Ch. 293 - Time to Trust, Revisited
On January 1, 2008 I wrote in my journal about what I felt the new year, 2008, would bring. I had never felt that 'the new year' was important until last year, because of the changes I had gone through. I had finally turned the reins over to God and was learning to put my absolute trust in Him.
I also felt that God would reveal my purpose this past year.
I mean, I believe everybody's purpose in life is to worship God and spread His Love and Word, preaching the gospel to all nations... but I think we each have a unique way of doing this, set up by Him. And that's what I meant by saying that I felt God would reveal 'this lifetime's purpose' for myself.
And you know what?
I believe that He did exactly that.
As many times as I've said that I keep going back and forth between ministries and am not sure about what I want to do with my life, that's only a half-truth, I think. I'm pretty sure about what God wants me to do for Him... but I keep turning away from that. To be honest, it's scary. It's dangerous. It's challenging. It's different. But it's needed, it's necessary. And I do think that I am one of the people cut out to do the job. It's time to put my trust in God once and for all and take responsibility for what I believe He is placing in my hands and on my heart.
Like I said last year...
It's not about me.
'You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.'
[Isaiah 26:3-4]
I also felt that God would reveal my purpose this past year.
I mean, I believe everybody's purpose in life is to worship God and spread His Love and Word, preaching the gospel to all nations... but I think we each have a unique way of doing this, set up by Him. And that's what I meant by saying that I felt God would reveal 'this lifetime's purpose' for myself.
And you know what?
I believe that He did exactly that.
As many times as I've said that I keep going back and forth between ministries and am not sure about what I want to do with my life, that's only a half-truth, I think. I'm pretty sure about what God wants me to do for Him... but I keep turning away from that. To be honest, it's scary. It's dangerous. It's challenging. It's different. But it's needed, it's necessary. And I do think that I am one of the people cut out to do the job. It's time to put my trust in God once and for all and take responsibility for what I believe He is placing in my hands and on my heart.
Like I said last year...
It's not about me.
'You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.'
[Isaiah 26:3-4]
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