"There is none like you. No one else can touch my heart like you do...."
We had corporate prayer at church tonight. One person mentioned in prayer that we would not be a stumbling block for unbelievers. That when people see us (Christians) they see Christ; his love, kindness, etc. I was reminded of this song listed above. Only God can reach the very deepest part of me, only He knows everything about me, and He is the only one who brings comfort to my soul. My prayer for myself and other Christians is like the Psalm "Lord, point out anything within me that offends you...". I know that if something offends God than it will most likely also offend others who don't know Christ. We are called to make His name famous, but in order to do that we must be like Him! I'm praying this psalm because there are most certainly a lot of things in me that offend Christ and I don't even see it. So, I hope that you would join me in this prayer in hope that Christ's name would be made famous because of the way that we live! God is able to "touch my heart" like no one else and He is able to point out the sin that offends Him, and others.
This has become one of my favorite verses from scripture and I wanted to share it. Some time last year I was introduced to this verse be a good friend during a season of my life when I wasn't necessarily making good decisions all the time. She told me to ask myself the question "is this profitable?" before making any decisions or actions. And that question has stuck with me ever since and has challanged me to live a holy life...I pray this scripture challanges you as well.
"My soul is getting restless for the place where I belong. I can't wait to join the angels and sing my Heaven song." -Phil WickhamI love this song because I'm reminded that this place is not my home. It's easy for me to get frustrated with life...the busyness, responsibilities, stress, etc. and forget that this is only temporary. Now, don't get me wrong...I have a good life. But I'm sure most people can understand where I'm coming from. However, I will say that my soul truly is "getting restless for the place where I belong." I just want to be home. I want to hug Jesus, sing with the angels, and rest. But, until then, I will keep running the race and try my best to push my will aside and let God's will control my life. It may not be easy and I certainly will fail many times, but I will rest in knowing that God's love is unfailing.
For the past few months I've felt extrememly overwhelmed with life. School and work have been crazy, and I think I just have too many plates spinning at one time. Well, last night I had a dream that I was walking in a field with Jesus. I was holding onto his arm and we were just talking. I wish I knew what we were talking about, but just being by his side was enough for me. Ever since I woke up I have felt an overwhelming sense of peace within me. And I can feel His presence more strongly than I've ever felt before. I don't think it is important that we were talking or what we were talking about. But rather God is reminding me that He is with me! In every season and in every circumstance He is here with me, helping me, guiding me, and continually showing me his unfailing love. I love him so much that my heart can hardly contain itself. :)
I recently watched a video of one of Steve Harvey's comedy shows. Steve Harvey, a secular comedian, while in front of a secular audience poses the question "How would you introduce God?" His response is amazing! I couldn't get the video to post to my blog so I typed up his response.
Ladies and gentleman it is my honor to introduce a man who needs no introduction.
His credits are too long to list.
He has done the impossible time after time, He has!
Out of a manger in Bethlehem and Jerusalem by way of Heaven.
His mother is still head-lining in the Catholic Church today.
His daddy is the author of a book that has been on the best seller list since the beginning of time.
He holds the record for the world’s greatest fish fry.
He fed 5000 hungry soldiers with 2 fish and five loafs of bread.
He can walk on water and turn water into wine. No special effects. No camera tricks.
He has a head shot on every church fan across the country.
Even before the Kings of comedy, He was hailed the King of all Kings,
Ruler of the Universe, Alpha and Omega, Beginning and the End,
the Bright and Morning star.
Some say he’s the Rose of Sharon. And some say he’s the Prince of Peace.
Put your hands together and show your love for
the second coming of the One and Only.
A few months ago I read a book titled Crazy Love by Francis Chan. My life was changed because of it. Recently I was reminded of this book and I decided to read it again. I've made it through 6 chapters and it's as if I'm reading it for the first time. As did the first time I read it, every chapter has made me step back and examine my life, and has challenged me to love unconditionally...
A concept that I've struggled with my entire life (and probably always will) is God's unconditional love. I just don't get it. I am sinner. Always have been and always will be. But yet God always has and always will love me with a love so deep and so powerful that even the grave couldn't stop it. "...broken and poured out all for love. Love so amazing!"
Crazy Love has challenged me on the whole concept of unconditional love. Not only does God love us unconditionally, but the same unconditional love that God has for us is the same love that He calls (commands) us to love people with. The fleshly part of me only wants to love people that I know. But we are called (commanded) to love everyone with the same unconditional love that God shows us. Yes, we are even commanded to love the people driving 55 mph in a 70 mph zone! :) For it is our unconditional love for people that allows Jesus to be revealed throughout the nations. But I know that without the help of Christ, I will invariably and ultimately fail at every attempt to love unconditionally. Praises that His grace is sufficient!
And lastely, I am to have an unconditional love for God. I am reminded of how many times I've become angry with God because things didn't turn out my way. Or the time that I completely turned from God because of (what I thought to be) his 'lack' of action in my life. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength." Again, we are commanded to love unconditionally...God and people. I know there will be times I will fail, but I MUST give Him everything! That is what He expects. He won't settle for less.
Love God. Love People. Reach the World.
Lately I've been challenged with the idea of crossroads and the importance of making the right choice (thanks to Kay Arthur). A crossroad is simply a choice as to what direction we will take. Every day we all face crossroads in our lives; little or big, they are there. I know I often don't put as much thought into a decision as I should. In a fast pace society like we live in, it is so easy for me to make a choice without thinking about the consequences that may follow. I hate that!
My biggest challenge has been in knowing if I'm making the right choice or not; if I'm taking the right path. In the big scheme of things, I am reassured in knowing that at least one path I've chosen is right because of Matthew 7:13. But what about every other decision in life? (Now as a side note, I've never been an assertive person. And I've always been the type to want other people to make the decision for me. Just tell me what to do and I'm happy!). But unfortunately, as an adult I must make choices for myself. Lame! :)
I have to admit that lately, I've made a lot of wrong choices. I realize now it's because I've been running to other people for help, and putting my trust in them; instead of running to God (and that is not an easy lesson to learn!). He may be a big God, but I'm learning that He is willing to give guidance on every single little decision I must make. As Kay Arthur puts it: "when you go straight to the word of God yourself to discover what it says, what it means, and how you are to line up your thinking and behavior with truth- you begin observing the things that are the easiest to see". In other words, God reveals to us the direction we should go. I'm so thankful to God for being patient with me while I continue to learn how to put this learned lesson into action.
I've been trying to write a new post for the past few days. There is so much good stuff happening in my life but I just can't seem to put the right words to it. It may be because of mental exhaustion from school, or having too much on my mind; but I'm lead to believe it's because there are no words that can do justice in explaining the greatness of God and the 'this-far' work he is doing in me...
I'm sure most have heard the saying "when one door is closed, another is opened" or something to that effect. But I think often times the hardest part is letting doors be closed in the first place. So often God will close a door, make it loud and clear to me that it is closed, and yet I continue to fight to keep it open...or even reopen the door later on down the road...
For the past few days a good friend of mine has been challenging me to not let any of the 'closed doors' be reopened. For me it comes in the form of relationships and offenses. For you it may be hurts, offenses, attached emotions, etc. Whatever it may be, I just want to encourage you to keep those doors closed! I know how easy it is to let the little things gradually nudge that door open again. Even if another door isn't immediately opened, we must trust that God will bring contentment with the doors that are still open. He always has our best interest in mind, whether we believe so or not. And His will is always right! Stay strong. The reward is coming, and is much greater than we could ever imagine!
I know this is a day late, but...
A friend recently shared this scripture with me. I've read it before, but Hebrews 12 is one of those passages that is continually life changing and encouraging. I recommend that everyone take the time to read it.
...1 let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us...2a Because of the joy awaiting Him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame...3 think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won't become weary and give up. 4 You have not yet struggled and fought agonizingly against sin, nor have you yet resisted and withstood to the point of pouring out your own blood.
...5 and have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke. He said "my child, don't make light of the Lord's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. 6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves..."7 As you endure this discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children...11 no discipline is enjoyable while it is happening- it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way...
Keep pushing on!
As a way to do better with blogging, I'm going to start blogging a whole new way. My goal is to blog at least 3 days every week. So I have picked 3 days and assigned each a topic...
Monday: YouTube Video. Every Monday I am going to post a video that I found on You Tube. It could be funny, embarrassing, sad, or serious. I'm going to try and keep things on the happy and encouraging side, but I'll just have to play it by ear.
Wednesday: Biblical Truth. Every Wednesday I am going to write about a biblical truth that I've encountered recently. It could be a verse from scripture, highlight points from Sunday's Sermon, or even lyrics of a song.
Saturday: News and Politics. I am leaving this category very open and broad. It could include anything about World news, local news, Obama's actions or plans, or interesting stories about celebrities.
I'm not promising that I will post every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. But I am going to try my best! :)
Well, summer school is in full swing and my mind is continually being filled with new information about nursing. Things are starting to get difficult and my schedule is starting to get pretty hectic. Not only have I been struggling with school, but relationships seem to be getting more strained, and God has been continually exposing the not-so-good things in my life. But the crazy thing is, I've never felt more peace than I do right now in this season of life! I've found peace in every decision I've made, every conversation I've had, and every opportunity that I've taken (or not taken). I know that this is all God's doing. The peace that he has brought to my mind, soul, and spirit is a continuous reminder of his grace and mercy. I LOVE the way He works!
Well, I've gotta get back to paperwork. Just thought I'd update while it was on my mind. :)
I'm currently doing a bible study titled Annointed, Transformed, Redeemed by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, and Kay Arthur. During last weeks DVD lesson as Priscilla was teaching, she listed off the following descriptions of who God is. I felt it was worth sharing (thanks to Karla for typing it up!) ::
He is the first and the last. The beginning and the end.
He’s the keeper of creation. And the creator of all.
He’s the architect of the universe and the manager of all time.
He always was, always is, and always will be unmoved, unchanged, undefeated and never undone.
He was bruised but brought healing. He was pierced but eased pain.
He was persecuted but brought freedom. He was dead to bring life.
He has risen to bring power and raised to bring peace.
The world can’t understand him.
Armies can’t defeat him.
Schools can’t explain him.
Leaders, they can’t ignore him.
Herod, he couldn’t kill him.
Nero couldn’t crush him.
The new age cannot replace him.
And Oprah cannot explain him away. She can’t!! she can’t do it!!
He is light. He is longevity. And he is the Lord.
He is goodness and kindness and faithfulness and he is God!
He is holy and righteous and powerful and pure.
His ways are right. His word is eternal. His will is unchanging.
His mind is on us.
He’s my saviour, my god, my peace, my joy, my comfort, my Lord.
And he rules my life.
I serve him because is bond is love. His burden is easy. His yoke is light.
And his goal for me is abundant life!
I follow him because he’s the wisdom of the wise. He’s the power of the powerful.
The ancient of days. The ruler of rulers. The leader of all leaders.
His goal is a relationship with me.
He’ll never leave me. Never forsake me. Never mislead me. Never forget me. Never overlook me.
And never cancel my appointment in his appointment book. Never!!
When I fall, he’ll lift me up. When I fail, he’ll forgive me.
When I am weak, he’s strong. When I am lost, he’s my way.
When I am afraid, he’s my courage. When I stumble, he will steady me.
When I am hurt, he’s going to heal me. When I am broken, he will mend me.
When I am blind, he will lead me. When I am hungry, he will feed me.
When I face trials, he’s with me. When I face persecution, he shields me.
When I face problems, he will comfort me.
When I face loss, he will provide for me. And when I face death, he will carry me home to meet him.
He is everything for everybody, everywhere, everytime, and in every way.
He is my god….and that is who I belong to!!
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me behind still waters. He restores me soul..."
In the bible study I'm doing in small group this semester, this scripture was used in one of the days of study. I've probably heard Psalm 23 over 100 times in my life; in sermons, Sunday school lessons, even songs. But I've never read and understood it the way I do now (thanks to a great small group leader and work of the Holy Spirit). He MAKES me lie down in green pastures to restore my soul. He knows when I need a break! He knows when I've reached my limit. So he may bring rest through circumstances (bad or good) or people that he brings in (or out) of my life. I've realized that even if I don't see the reason or good in the circumstance, I must trust that he knows what I need. And he is going to MAKE me rest; whether I like it or not! His timing is perfect, even if I don't realize it. I LOVE how he speaks through scripture and how you can read something 100 times and learn something new every time! so cool.
I wanted to share a frustrating, but yet funny, story with y'all...
So, my church is having a Ladies Tea tomorrow in honor of Mother's day. The past couple of days I have been helping Karla prepare for the event. Well, yesterday she took 12 tablecloths to a local dry-cleaners to have pressed; so that everything looked top-notch for the event. After picking them up and paying $56 for the pressing, we attempt to put them on the tables at the church. But we soon noticed that the tablecloths were in fact just as wrinkled and creased as before they were "pressed". So we take them back to the dry-cleaners to try and work the situation out. We go into the establishment and explain to one of the employees the dilemma; Karla nicely asks that she either get a refund or they press the cloths again. After a few minutes of conversation, the lady walks to the back and gets this man (I'm guessing her boss). He comes out and explains to us that they cannot get creases out of fabric! (which I've yet to fully understand). We argue for a few mintues about the meaning of the word "pressed", but seem to be getting nowhere with the employees. Then, without saying anything to Karla or me, this man starts taking each tablecloth off the hanger, unfolds all of them, wads each one up and puts it on the counter. In the meantime, Karla and I are confusingly looking at each other, wondering how his actions are going to solve the problem. Eventually, Karla asks the man what he was doing, and (pointing to the stack of hangers on the counter) he says "these are mine!"....
result: Karla receives a refund and we iron the tablecloths ourselves.
The More I Seek You by Kari Jobe
The more I seek you, the more I find you
The more I find you, the more I love you
I wanna sit at your feet, drink from the cup in your hands
Lay back against you and breathe, feel your heart beat
This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand
I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming
I think the main reason why I love this song so much is because it's so true to my life right now. I'm being forced to seek God more (in a good way). I've reached a point in life where even though I don't understand why He has brought me to this season, I have to trust that His way is best and continue to seek Him. And the more I seek Him and his purpose for my life, the more I am amazed at His love for me. This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand. I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming...
Lord, bend me. Take out everything that's not of
you- every habit, every thought, every dream, every desire. I want to be filled with You.
New seasons of life bring about a new everything. New joys, friends, loves, activities, jobs, degrees, battles, struggles, and pains. There have been times that I love where I am in life. And others that I pray for God to bring a new season. But I'm learning that every season may not be a joyous one and we may not understand or like it, but nonetheless, it is here and we must live through it. Even more importantly, we must not forget that God is still God and we must trust that He brings us to every season because it is His will. That simple fact means we always have a reason to be joyous and are always commanded to offer our praise to Him. Regardless of our present situations, we must remember who God is and that He is always here. He knows what is best.
Desert Song by Hillsong:
All of my life, in every season
you are still GOD and I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship.
