Friday, May 8, 2009
Conviction
Alexis, Trent, and Cole have joined the Bible Bee competition (it's a national contest with prizes totalling $260,000 and you can still sign up until May 15). Flipping through some of the curriculum we will be studying over the summer I came across these questions on the section about Abraham. I have a feeling this will be a very challenging course. I think I like it already!Asked by God of Abraham (and you and me??)
"Will you cooperate with My plans for your life?"
"Will you trust Me to provide for you [in famine]?"
"Will you value what is eternal versus temporal and place the interests of others ahead of your own?"
"Will you trust Me for victory over your enemies?"
"Will you guard my holy reputation by crediting Me alone as your source of material and spiritual success?"
"Will you wait for My timing [in providing a child of promise]?"
"Do you love Me more than anyone else?" (Even yourself?)
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Hebrews 4:12
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.It seems to me that I have been doing a lot more physical work around here than mental work. With the beautiful spring weather, and all these projects that I've been dreaming of all winter, my energy has been focused on accomplishing so many things. My body is in great protest, but I am so thrilled with seeing these things come into fruition.
But the Holy Spirit continues to impress upon me the need to get back into our Bible reading. Life has consumed us again with it's busyness. I have been reading snippets of my Bible as I can, but we have not been faithful to our family time together. About everyday we say we need to do it, but fall short of sitting down and actually reading the word for the past week.It is so important to me to ground our children (and myself) in God's word. As I look around I see so many "christians" and churches that are not grounded in the Word. So many that do not take seriously the study of scripture, and the daily immersion in it. Scripture is, for the time being, the only revelation of God that we have.
One day we will see Him fully, and for eternity God will reveal Himself fully, but for today He has left His word. If we don't read it it would be like receiving letters from a lover at war, but never bothering to open and read them.Hebrews says that the word of God is living and active. It is the Holy Spirit moving through conviction, encouragement, giving hope, etc., from God.
Scripture is the measuring rod that we use against everything else we come across to see if it is true to God. If we don't know Scripture, what do we have to measure with? We are called to be obedient. If we don't know God and what His word says, what can we be obedient to? As James says, we are tossed around like waves in the ocean, if we don't have a solid foundation. Every whim that comes along proclaiming to be prophecy and the word of God will be accepted unless we know what God has said.This double-edged sword penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit.
There are so many instances in my life that God has used His word to make me firm in Him. As my will and desires longed to rule in a way that was opposed to God, His Word led me back time and again to Him. Helping me stay the course when I wanted to give in to my own sins. Submission to my husband was a huge battle for me years ago (and still is some days) as I first started to understand God's plan in it. As I repeated over and over again, "And His way's are not burdensome." "Wives, submit to your husband.", I was able to become obedient not only in actions but in spirit as well, and have since been able to see God's master plan even in this foreign command.
God's word will not disappear. Not a single dot of an "I" will be lost. He gave us exactly what He wants us to have of it for the time being. How I long to see his followers steeped in it; to stand firm in it.
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.It seems to me that I have been doing a lot more physical work around here than mental work. With the beautiful spring weather, and all these projects that I've been dreaming of all winter, my energy has been focused on accomplishing so many things. My body is in great protest, but I am so thrilled with seeing these things come into fruition.
But the Holy Spirit continues to impress upon me the need to get back into our Bible reading. Life has consumed us again with it's busyness. I have been reading snippets of my Bible as I can, but we have not been faithful to our family time together. About everyday we say we need to do it, but fall short of sitting down and actually reading the word for the past week.It is so important to me to ground our children (and myself) in God's word. As I look around I see so many "christians" and churches that are not grounded in the Word. So many that do not take seriously the study of scripture, and the daily immersion in it. Scripture is, for the time being, the only revelation of God that we have.
One day we will see Him fully, and for eternity God will reveal Himself fully, but for today He has left His word. If we don't read it it would be like receiving letters from a lover at war, but never bothering to open and read them.Hebrews says that the word of God is living and active. It is the Holy Spirit moving through conviction, encouragement, giving hope, etc., from God.
Scripture is the measuring rod that we use against everything else we come across to see if it is true to God. If we don't know Scripture, what do we have to measure with? We are called to be obedient. If we don't know God and what His word says, what can we be obedient to? As James says, we are tossed around like waves in the ocean, if we don't have a solid foundation. Every whim that comes along proclaiming to be prophecy and the word of God will be accepted unless we know what God has said.This double-edged sword penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit.
There are so many instances in my life that God has used His word to make me firm in Him. As my will and desires longed to rule in a way that was opposed to God, His Word led me back time and again to Him. Helping me stay the course when I wanted to give in to my own sins. Submission to my husband was a huge battle for me years ago (and still is some days) as I first started to understand God's plan in it. As I repeated over and over again, "And His way's are not burdensome." "Wives, submit to your husband.", I was able to become obedient not only in actions but in spirit as well, and have since been able to see God's master plan even in this foreign command.
God's word will not disappear. Not a single dot of an "I" will be lost. He gave us exactly what He wants us to have of it for the time being. How I long to see his followers steeped in it; to stand firm in it.
Challenge For the Day
Monday, April 20, 2009
Challenge for the Day
Philemon :7Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.What a challenge! To be called to such a high standard of loving God's people with the forethought always being to bring great joy and encouragement to them. To our husbands and children primarily, but then overflowing to every person we meet. To constantly be refreshing the hearts of the saints. Even the lady at the grocery store checkout. How weird would people think we are?
The discussion of late at our house has been how we carelessly treat each other, but then when company comes we put on the smiles. We are pondering, and trying to apply, the theory of "Treat your family like company, and your company like family". I have the company part down, but fail often at the family part. Guess God has a few things to say about that, too.Philemon :22And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.Are you preparing the guest room in your life to be ready for God to answer the prayers that you know He has laid on your heart? What a way to look at our prayer life! I better get mine started.
Challenge for the Day
Philemon :7Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.What a challenge! To be called to such a high standard of loving God's people with the forethought always being to bring great joy and encouragement to them. To our husbands and children primarily, but then overflowing to every person we meet. To constantly be refreshing the hearts of the saints. Even the lady at the grocery store checkout. How weird would people think we are?
The discussion of late at our house has been how we carelessly treat each other, but then when company comes we put on the smiles. We are pondering, and trying to apply, the theory of "Treat your family like company, and your company like family". I have the company part down, but fail often at the family part. Guess God has a few things to say about that, too.Philemon :22And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.Are you preparing the guest room in your life to be ready for God to answer the prayers that you know He has laid on your heart? What a way to look at our prayer life! I better get mine started.
Isaiah 40:6-8
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Isaiah 40:6-8
A voice says, "Cry out!"And I said, "What shall I cry?""All men are like grassand all their glory is like the flowers of the field.The grass withers and the flowers fail, because the breath of the Lord blows on them.Surely the people are grass.The grass withers and the flowers fail, but the word of our God stands forever."
As I was whining to God this morning about different things in my life that He has chosen for me I came across this passage in Isaiah. It really struck me and again put things in to perspective with an eternal view. This life and this world are not about me. My life will pass away as the flowers of the field scripture says. What will be left at the end is God and His Word.
I tend to get so caught up in these worldly things. A little perspective is good. My prayer then turns to that rather than seeking my own glory and my own way I might commit all these things to God's glory. That His name be lifted up and honored in all things. Keeping in perspective that all He has given us here is from Him, and to do all the things we do for His glory.
That's why when we do things like ride the horses we start by thanking God for them, the beautiful day and opportunity to ride, ask for His hand to be upon us and the horses in safety, acknowledge that even this land to ride them on is from Him. When we start any project we try to not get too consumed with it, but rather look upon it as taking care of what God has given us. Are we being good stewards and managing His gift? When I see my husband get up at 5:30 to go to work I pray for him, and thank God for such a good man for a husband, who works so hard to supply all his family needs. When I see the beautiful faces of my children I pray for their salvation and God's work in their lives that they, too, may learn to honor the Lord and seek His glory above their own.
I often fail and forget, but great is the Lords forgiveness, mighty was the price paid on the cross for sin, and powerful is the Holy Spirit to correct and lead us on to righteousness.The Bible says that it is God's word that will never disappear. This world will one day end, and our lives, too. If that is what is going to be left standing it would be wise to know what it says, who said it, and to make your salvation sure with God. Shouldn't we then strive all the more to obey that word, as well?
Isaiah 40:6-8
A voice says, "Cry out!"And I said, "What shall I cry?""All men are like grassand all their glory is like the flowers of the field.The grass withers and the flowers fail, because the breath of the Lord blows on them.Surely the people are grass.The grass withers and the flowers fail, but the word of our God stands forever."
As I was whining to God this morning about different things in my life that He has chosen for me I came across this passage in Isaiah. It really struck me and again put things in to perspective with an eternal view. This life and this world are not about me. My life will pass away as the flowers of the field scripture says. What will be left at the end is God and His Word.
I tend to get so caught up in these worldly things. A little perspective is good. My prayer then turns to that rather than seeking my own glory and my own way I might commit all these things to God's glory. That His name be lifted up and honored in all things. Keeping in perspective that all He has given us here is from Him, and to do all the things we do for His glory.
That's why when we do things like ride the horses we start by thanking God for them, the beautiful day and opportunity to ride, ask for His hand to be upon us and the horses in safety, acknowledge that even this land to ride them on is from Him. When we start any project we try to not get too consumed with it, but rather look upon it as taking care of what God has given us. Are we being good stewards and managing His gift? When I see my husband get up at 5:30 to go to work I pray for him, and thank God for such a good man for a husband, who works so hard to supply all his family needs. When I see the beautiful faces of my children I pray for their salvation and God's work in their lives that they, too, may learn to honor the Lord and seek His glory above their own.
I often fail and forget, but great is the Lords forgiveness, mighty was the price paid on the cross for sin, and powerful is the Holy Spirit to correct and lead us on to righteousness.The Bible says that it is God's word that will never disappear. This world will one day end, and our lives, too. If that is what is going to be left standing it would be wise to know what it says, who said it, and to make your salvation sure with God. Shouldn't we then strive all the more to obey that word, as well?
Iowa's Decision
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Iowa's Decision
I admit, I am not too current on worldy events. Being without an outside access television antenna, only receiving our local small town newspaper, and avoiding as much of the doom and gloom and tantalizing stories reported on the internet, it was with great sadness that I read this morning of the courts in Iowas decision to make gay marriages legal last week (to be finalized the end of April) with little to no option to the people of this state to voice their opinion.
Romans 1 came to mind. Specifically verse 18, The wrath of god is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. And verse 24 and 26, Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another...Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
God intended marriage as one woman and one man. In homosexuality we see revealed just another form of sin, which we all received from Adam. What is so devastating about our country approving and applauding gay marriages is not that these scriptures say that God will judge our nation for this sin, but that we are already under His judgement. The sinful desires of men to long for men, and women to long for women in homosexual relationships is the result of God giving man over to his own shameful lusts because he has denied God. As you read throughout scripture, we are not the first nation to experience this. But, as you read also in Scripture, God has not dealt kindly with nations that refuse to obey Him and repent of these wicked ways.
Of course, Scripture offers the hope of the Savior. Reading from Acts today revealed the good news! Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 10:43b Everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name [Jesus]. Repent. Accept Christ as Savior. Obedience to the King of Kings. Best of all, He promised we don't have to do it all alone, He'll do it through us. But our nation does not seem to want to hear that either.Buckle up people, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Now is the time to prepare and decide who's side your on. Choose this day whom you will serve.
Iowa's Decision
I admit, I am not too current on worldy events. Being without an outside access television antenna, only receiving our local small town newspaper, and avoiding as much of the doom and gloom and tantalizing stories reported on the internet, it was with great sadness that I read this morning of the courts in Iowas decision to make gay marriages legal last week (to be finalized the end of April) with little to no option to the people of this state to voice their opinion.
Romans 1 came to mind. Specifically verse 18, The wrath of god is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. And verse 24 and 26, Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another...Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
God intended marriage as one woman and one man. In homosexuality we see revealed just another form of sin, which we all received from Adam. What is so devastating about our country approving and applauding gay marriages is not that these scriptures say that God will judge our nation for this sin, but that we are already under His judgement. The sinful desires of men to long for men, and women to long for women in homosexual relationships is the result of God giving man over to his own shameful lusts because he has denied God. As you read throughout scripture, we are not the first nation to experience this. But, as you read also in Scripture, God has not dealt kindly with nations that refuse to obey Him and repent of these wicked ways.
Of course, Scripture offers the hope of the Savior. Reading from Acts today revealed the good news! Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 10:43b Everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name [Jesus]. Repent. Accept Christ as Savior. Obedience to the King of Kings. Best of all, He promised we don't have to do it all alone, He'll do it through us. But our nation does not seem to want to hear that either.Buckle up people, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Now is the time to prepare and decide who's side your on. Choose this day whom you will serve.
Iowa's Decision
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Iowa's Decision
I admit, I am not too current on worldy events. Being without an outside access television antenna, only receiving our local small town newspaper, and avoiding as much of the doom and gloom and tantalizing stories reported on the internet, it was with great sadness that I read this morning of the courts in Iowas decision to make gay marriages legal last week (to be finalized the end of April) with little to no option to the people of this state to voice their opinion.
Romans 1 came to mind. Specifically verse 18, The wrath of god is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. And verse 24 and 26, Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another...Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
God intended marriage as one woman and one man. In homosexuality we see revealed just another form of sin, which we all received from Adam. What is so devastating about our country approving and applauding gay marriages is not that these scriptures say that God will judge our nation for this sin, but that we are already under His judgement. The sinful desires of men to long for men, and women to long for women in homosexual relationships is the result of God giving man over to his own shameful lusts because he has denied God. As you read throughout scripture, we are not the first nation to experience this. But, as you read also in Scripture, God has not dealt kindly with nations that refuse to obey Him and repent of these wicked ways.
Of course, Scripture offers the hope of the Savior. Reading from Acts today revealed the good news! Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 10:43b Everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name [Jesus]. Repent. Accept Christ as Savior. Obedience to the King of Kings. Best of all, He promised we don't have to do it all alone, He'll do it through us. But our nation does not seem to want to hear that either.Buckle up people, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Now is the time to prepare and decide who's side your on. Choose this day whom you will serve.
Iowa's Decision
I admit, I am not too current on worldy events. Being without an outside access television antenna, only receiving our local small town newspaper, and avoiding as much of the doom and gloom and tantalizing stories reported on the internet, it was with great sadness that I read this morning of the courts in Iowas decision to make gay marriages legal last week (to be finalized the end of April) with little to no option to the people of this state to voice their opinion.
Romans 1 came to mind. Specifically verse 18, The wrath of god is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. And verse 24 and 26, Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another...Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
God intended marriage as one woman and one man. In homosexuality we see revealed just another form of sin, which we all received from Adam. What is so devastating about our country approving and applauding gay marriages is not that these scriptures say that God will judge our nation for this sin, but that we are already under His judgement. The sinful desires of men to long for men, and women to long for women in homosexual relationships is the result of God giving man over to his own shameful lusts because he has denied God. As you read throughout scripture, we are not the first nation to experience this. But, as you read also in Scripture, God has not dealt kindly with nations that refuse to obey Him and repent of these wicked ways.
Of course, Scripture offers the hope of the Savior. Reading from Acts today revealed the good news! Acts 14:15 Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 10:43b Everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name [Jesus]. Repent. Accept Christ as Savior. Obedience to the King of Kings. Best of all, He promised we don't have to do it all alone, He'll do it through us. But our nation does not seem to want to hear that either.Buckle up people, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Now is the time to prepare and decide who's side your on. Choose this day whom you will serve.
Ouch!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Ouch!
God sure must love me! Again, he has been pointing out areas in my life that I like hidden alot better! A friend gave me a book called "Feminine Appeal: Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother" by Carolyn Mahaney. I have just been reading it in bits and pieces as time allows. It covers all kinds of wonderful things like submission to your husband, the delight of loving your husband as God lays out, self control, and the honor of working at home. Things I thought I had pretty much under control. Pat-self-on-the-back!
But, obviously, I still have lot's of growing room.A great conviction point God has used to hit home comes from chapter 2. Not so much directed at my husband alone, but every other area of my life as well. She makes the point that when our reaction is not loving, and those pesky feelings of anger, pride, jealousy, selfishness, fear, and laziness are the first to pop up, it is because of sin in our life. There is no room for Godly character when these are our first responses. Her solution is to check our hearts at the first sign of these "sin alarms" and seek God to reveal what sin we are harboring, then repent. This is how we maintain a loving relationship/attitude that is glorifying to God. When we agree with the diagnosis of Scripture that we have a sinful heart, then we can also receive the remedy- the forgiveness of Christ and His power to change.
Usually I just like to justify all those things. What a challenge! What a concept to pass along to my children. What a ripple effect to those around me.It is hard to see ourselves as sinful. Full of sin. Me. Full of sin. But, if we do not have open eyes to see that, we then cannot see Christ, as we have no need for Him. He then becomes just somebody else to have an opinion.
As I tell the kids often, "I don't think God was kidding!" Scripture promises that we will all give an account one day to God for everything in our lives. One day every knee will bow and confess He is Lord. I am glad he has granted that to be willingly in my life through Jesus, and as He continues His work in me, I hope it is glorifying to Him, as painful as it is to me at times. Pruning sometimes needs to get vigorous for the sweet fruit to one day emerge.
Ouch!
God sure must love me! Again, he has been pointing out areas in my life that I like hidden alot better! A friend gave me a book called "Feminine Appeal: Seven Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother" by Carolyn Mahaney. I have just been reading it in bits and pieces as time allows. It covers all kinds of wonderful things like submission to your husband, the delight of loving your husband as God lays out, self control, and the honor of working at home. Things I thought I had pretty much under control. Pat-self-on-the-back!
But, obviously, I still have lot's of growing room.A great conviction point God has used to hit home comes from chapter 2. Not so much directed at my husband alone, but every other area of my life as well. She makes the point that when our reaction is not loving, and those pesky feelings of anger, pride, jealousy, selfishness, fear, and laziness are the first to pop up, it is because of sin in our life. There is no room for Godly character when these are our first responses. Her solution is to check our hearts at the first sign of these "sin alarms" and seek God to reveal what sin we are harboring, then repent. This is how we maintain a loving relationship/attitude that is glorifying to God. When we agree with the diagnosis of Scripture that we have a sinful heart, then we can also receive the remedy- the forgiveness of Christ and His power to change.
Usually I just like to justify all those things. What a challenge! What a concept to pass along to my children. What a ripple effect to those around me.It is hard to see ourselves as sinful. Full of sin. Me. Full of sin. But, if we do not have open eyes to see that, we then cannot see Christ, as we have no need for Him. He then becomes just somebody else to have an opinion.
As I tell the kids often, "I don't think God was kidding!" Scripture promises that we will all give an account one day to God for everything in our lives. One day every knee will bow and confess He is Lord. I am glad he has granted that to be willingly in my life through Jesus, and as He continues His work in me, I hope it is glorifying to Him, as painful as it is to me at times. Pruning sometimes needs to get vigorous for the sweet fruit to one day emerge.
2 Timothy 4:16-18
Sunday, March 29, 2009
2 Timothy 4:16-18
At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
This passage really struck me this morning in the midst of my exhausted-35-hour-work-weekend-state-of-mind. It made me ponder some of the things that God has been doing in my life the past few years, as well as look at the correlation in Paul's ministry and Jesus' last hours. God seems to take away all of our holds in life so that in the end it is only us and Him. Whether it be family, friends, congregations, titles, or physical homes, etc., He slowly pries our fingers off of this world so that in the end it is only the Lord we are counting on to give us the strength we need to endure what He has called us to. It is a hard journey to follow, until you realize the One who's calling. And, as in all things, it will be for His glory.Also this passage brought great encouragement as we are working our way through the Scriptures in a marathon type fashion at our home:2 Timothy 3:14-15But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
2 Timothy 4:16-18
At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
This passage really struck me this morning in the midst of my exhausted-35-hour-work-weekend-state-of-mind. It made me ponder some of the things that God has been doing in my life the past few years, as well as look at the correlation in Paul's ministry and Jesus' last hours. God seems to take away all of our holds in life so that in the end it is only us and Him. Whether it be family, friends, congregations, titles, or physical homes, etc., He slowly pries our fingers off of this world so that in the end it is only the Lord we are counting on to give us the strength we need to endure what He has called us to. It is a hard journey to follow, until you realize the One who's calling. And, as in all things, it will be for His glory.Also this passage brought great encouragement as we are working our way through the Scriptures in a marathon type fashion at our home:2 Timothy 3:14-15But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
Reading the Bible
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Reading the Bible
Call me crazy, but I have had this overwhelming desire to need to immerse my children (and myself) in the Word. It has been a little nagging thing, but continues to press until I decided to do something about it today. And, how do I do everything, why jump in with both feet, of course. We are going to try to read a book of the Bible everyday (allowing our self some busy off days), and hope to read it through by the end of May. We read Matthew today, and it was amazing. I have been plugging along through the New Testament myself since November 2007, studying and journaling various chapters at a time (which is wonderful) but to read the whole book of Matthew in one setting really gave me a big picture kind of feeling. Knowing myself, I am sure we will get sidetracked, but I hope not. If that cabin-in-the-woods were done, I would love to go hide myself out there and read the whole Bible in one setting.
Reading the Bible
Call me crazy, but I have had this overwhelming desire to need to immerse my children (and myself) in the Word. It has been a little nagging thing, but continues to press until I decided to do something about it today. And, how do I do everything, why jump in with both feet, of course. We are going to try to read a book of the Bible everyday (allowing our self some busy off days), and hope to read it through by the end of May. We read Matthew today, and it was amazing. I have been plugging along through the New Testament myself since November 2007, studying and journaling various chapters at a time (which is wonderful) but to read the whole book of Matthew in one setting really gave me a big picture kind of feeling. Knowing myself, I am sure we will get sidetracked, but I hope not. If that cabin-in-the-woods were done, I would love to go hide myself out there and read the whole Bible in one setting.
Simple Obedience
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Simple Obedience
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Ephesians 6:1
This is one of the first verses we teach our young children. To obey their mom and dad ultimately makes everybody happy, especially God. In my hard learned wisdom gained by the time child number 5 came home I have found that to start by simply saying the child's name first, then said child looking directly at you before asking the request, is a huge respect part of the relationship. It also leaves no room for the child to pretend that he didn't hear you.
Then if that doesn't make enough of an impact, we usually go on to the one about the birds pecking out the eyes of little disobedient children. Where is that found? Not 1st Hesitations, oh yeah, Proverbs 30:17. That usually puts the fear of God into them. Laugh today! :))
Simple Obedience
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Ephesians 6:1
This is one of the first verses we teach our young children. To obey their mom and dad ultimately makes everybody happy, especially God. In my hard learned wisdom gained by the time child number 5 came home I have found that to start by simply saying the child's name first, then said child looking directly at you before asking the request, is a huge respect part of the relationship. It also leaves no room for the child to pretend that he didn't hear you.
Then if that doesn't make enough of an impact, we usually go on to the one about the birds pecking out the eyes of little disobedient children. Where is that found? Not 1st Hesitations, oh yeah, Proverbs 30:17. That usually puts the fear of God into them. Laugh today! :))
Zechariah 9:8
Monday, March 16, 2009
Zechariah 9:8
The Lord really encouraged me with these words the other day:
But I will defend my house against marauding forces.
Both in the sense of God protecting His own (in this case Israel), and how as a mother I can defend my children and husband and home against the marauding forces that continue to bombard.
Zechariah 9:8
The Lord really encouraged me with these words the other day:
But I will defend my house against marauding forces.
Both in the sense of God protecting His own (in this case Israel), and how as a mother I can defend my children and husband and home against the marauding forces that continue to bombard.
1 Kings 19
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
1 Kings 19
Talking to a friend yesterday made me ponder where God has me. I have watched the work God has been doing in this man's life, and continue to rejoice in the victories and faithfulness that is portrayed through it. His journey is coming full circle from being an alcoholic, to jail time, to recovery and salvation, and now back to jail again, but this time in ministry for his savior. God has laid upon him the passion to start a half-way house in his community where more people can hear of the gospel as they are on the road to recovery. I love when God moves, and His people are faithful to step out. The joy is contagious!
Then, I see where I am. Struggling again for that joy and that calling and that mission from God. See, I am normally not one to sit still. Always doing something else for the ministry. As He is sovereign, God does have me exactly where He wants me, but how long does this go on? At what point do I step out and start something, and how long do I justify that God doesn't want me "out there". I have a full time ministry right here at home, don't I???
Reading my Bible this morning in 2nd Timothy, God kept calling me to Elijah's story. At the height of his ministry, and experience of years of God's provision, and first hand seeing Him move, he is on top of Mount Carmel and calls on God to bring down fire from heaven. Right after this, he hears that Jezebel wants to kill him, so he runs for his life. He tells God "I have had enough, Lord. Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."
Do you know what God did? He sent an angel to minister to Elijah, and gave him rest and food. After he was strengthened, God sent him out on a journey for forty days and forty nights. After he came to a cave at Horeb, the mountain of God, God asked him "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
I feel like I am somewhere on that journey. Coming down from a mountain top experience in ministry a couple of years ago, to "running for my life" the past year, and now waiting for the voice of God. Or maybe I am still at that resting spot, letting God heal and renew me. It is hard to be in the valley, seeing that enormous mountain ahead. Seeing the one's on top, calling down encouragement.
Elijah's reply, "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." God responded by telling him to prepare to stand in the presence of the Lord. Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. And God asked him again "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
Maybe that was part of the purpose of the journey. To give Elijah time to ponder "what am I doing here?" Maybe that's part of our journey, too. To prepare to stand before the Lord to answer that question, before we go on to what He has prepared in advance for us. After lamenting to God, again, about what the Israelites had done God gave him very clear directions about what he was to do. He encouraged him by telling him he wasn't alone, God had set aside seven thousand in Israel who's knees had not bowed down before Baal. Elijah proceeded down the mountain, refreshed and renewed, to go out and serve the Lord again.
~
As I was looking for the account of Elijah, I came across our favorite 2 Kings passage. I call it "Cole's story", because when he was little he always asked me to read it to him. 2 Kings 2:23-25From there Elisha went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, some youths came out of the town and jeered at him. "Go on up, you baldhead!" they said "Go on up, you baldhead!" He turned around, looked at them and called down a curse on them in the name of the Lord. Then two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. And he went on to Mount Carmel and from there returned to Samaria.Just another day of ministry for Elisha I guess??!! Cole has never teased anyone about being bald, anyway!
1 Kings 19
Talking to a friend yesterday made me ponder where God has me. I have watched the work God has been doing in this man's life, and continue to rejoice in the victories and faithfulness that is portrayed through it. His journey is coming full circle from being an alcoholic, to jail time, to recovery and salvation, and now back to jail again, but this time in ministry for his savior. God has laid upon him the passion to start a half-way house in his community where more people can hear of the gospel as they are on the road to recovery. I love when God moves, and His people are faithful to step out. The joy is contagious!
Then, I see where I am. Struggling again for that joy and that calling and that mission from God. See, I am normally not one to sit still. Always doing something else for the ministry. As He is sovereign, God does have me exactly where He wants me, but how long does this go on? At what point do I step out and start something, and how long do I justify that God doesn't want me "out there". I have a full time ministry right here at home, don't I???
Reading my Bible this morning in 2nd Timothy, God kept calling me to Elijah's story. At the height of his ministry, and experience of years of God's provision, and first hand seeing Him move, he is on top of Mount Carmel and calls on God to bring down fire from heaven. Right after this, he hears that Jezebel wants to kill him, so he runs for his life. He tells God "I have had enough, Lord. Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."
Do you know what God did? He sent an angel to minister to Elijah, and gave him rest and food. After he was strengthened, God sent him out on a journey for forty days and forty nights. After he came to a cave at Horeb, the mountain of God, God asked him "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
I feel like I am somewhere on that journey. Coming down from a mountain top experience in ministry a couple of years ago, to "running for my life" the past year, and now waiting for the voice of God. Or maybe I am still at that resting spot, letting God heal and renew me. It is hard to be in the valley, seeing that enormous mountain ahead. Seeing the one's on top, calling down encouragement.
Elijah's reply, "I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." God responded by telling him to prepare to stand in the presence of the Lord. Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. And God asked him again "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
Maybe that was part of the purpose of the journey. To give Elijah time to ponder "what am I doing here?" Maybe that's part of our journey, too. To prepare to stand before the Lord to answer that question, before we go on to what He has prepared in advance for us. After lamenting to God, again, about what the Israelites had done God gave him very clear directions about what he was to do. He encouraged him by telling him he wasn't alone, God had set aside seven thousand in Israel who's knees had not bowed down before Baal. Elijah proceeded down the mountain, refreshed and renewed, to go out and serve the Lord again.
~
As I was looking for the account of Elijah, I came across our favorite 2 Kings passage. I call it "Cole's story", because when he was little he always asked me to read it to him. 2 Kings 2:23-25From there Elisha went up to Bethel. As he was walking along the road, some youths came out of the town and jeered at him. "Go on up, you baldhead!" they said "Go on up, you baldhead!" He turned around, looked at them and called down a curse on them in the name of the Lord. Then two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. And he went on to Mount Carmel and from there returned to Samaria.Just another day of ministry for Elisha I guess??!! Cole has never teased anyone about being bald, anyway!
2 Timothy 1:3-12
Thursday, February 26, 2009
2 Timothy 1:3-12
I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith.... I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you.... For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
This was such a powerful passage of scripture this morning. It made me think back a few days to the visit we had with dear friends of ours. It also made me think over the past few years we have got to share in their lives as God has been leading them on their journey, and the part He has allowed us to play in their lives.I grew up with both of them, but we really didn't get to know each other until 10 years ago when we started attending the same church together, and started growing our families. They have become a very special family in my life, and also our kids' lives. It brought me great joy to be reminded of their sincere faith.
Four years ago God chose to take their little 5 year old daughter.
The following verses are so true to what God has been doing in their lives.So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.... But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.... That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.
Through out the struggle of understanding why God would have done this, they continue to trust Him and his plans for their life. They continue to testify of the goodness of God, of his power and salvation. Trusting that His grace is sufficient, even in this. Lifting up His name, and sharing what He has done in their lives. Knowing that through this suffering for the gospel, God's name is glorified. Even in the midst of this tragedy, they have seen God's hand move in salvation. They are more convinced that He is able to guard what they have entrusted to Him for that day. The longing for heaven is all the more ingrained in them.
This sweet little girl, in her few years, has had such an impact for the gospel in our little community. Many lives have been changed because of what God did with her life. What a legacy to leave. I know my life will never be the same because of her, and what God chose to do with her life. I can still see those little eyes looking up at me, and I miss her so much, too. God has overwhelmed me to be in prayer for this family constantly. It doesn't always seem like enough. May God be glorified in it.
2 Timothy 1:3-12
I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith.... I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you.... For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
This was such a powerful passage of scripture this morning. It made me think back a few days to the visit we had with dear friends of ours. It also made me think over the past few years we have got to share in their lives as God has been leading them on their journey, and the part He has allowed us to play in their lives.I grew up with both of them, but we really didn't get to know each other until 10 years ago when we started attending the same church together, and started growing our families. They have become a very special family in my life, and also our kids' lives. It brought me great joy to be reminded of their sincere faith.
Four years ago God chose to take their little 5 year old daughter.
The following verses are so true to what God has been doing in their lives.So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.... But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.... That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.
Through out the struggle of understanding why God would have done this, they continue to trust Him and his plans for their life. They continue to testify of the goodness of God, of his power and salvation. Trusting that His grace is sufficient, even in this. Lifting up His name, and sharing what He has done in their lives. Knowing that through this suffering for the gospel, God's name is glorified. Even in the midst of this tragedy, they have seen God's hand move in salvation. They are more convinced that He is able to guard what they have entrusted to Him for that day. The longing for heaven is all the more ingrained in them.
This sweet little girl, in her few years, has had such an impact for the gospel in our little community. Many lives have been changed because of what God did with her life. What a legacy to leave. I know my life will never be the same because of her, and what God chose to do with her life. I can still see those little eyes looking up at me, and I miss her so much, too. God has overwhelmed me to be in prayer for this family constantly. It doesn't always seem like enough. May God be glorified in it.
God Moments
Monday, February 23, 2009
God Moments
Reading through the Power for Living from church this morning, God opened my eyes to some interesting things.
There was a story about Gary Haugen who runs International Justice Mission. Their purpose is to work with local authorities to dig up evidence and bring prosecutions in foreign countries against those guilty of abuse and slavery.
I found it very interesting how God had gifted him, and used those gifts for His glory. It made me ponder how God gifts each one of us, and as we use those gifts as He draws them out, we are ultimately happier, and God is glorified. Gary "felt called to live out his faith and education by investing in a cause bigger than himself." God purposely gave him those gifts, and then allowed the education in his life. I can think of so many things in my life that God has gifted me in, and taught me in, that could be used for His glory. I find, too, that those are the times I am truly happy.Just think, every little gift that is in each one of us reveals another aspect of who God is in some way.
Scripture says we are created in His likeness. What an amazing, diverse God! Who are we to limit Him to the boxes we define?Another interesting quote was from Micah 6:8 "In Micah 6:8 God tells us that the bottom line agenda for His people is to do justice and love mercy and walk humbly with Him." How simple our relationship with God should be, and how complicated we want to make it. Adding so many extra requirements to it. I am learning how to walk humbly with God, and removing so many of those extra worldly add-ons that consume my time and energy. It is an interesting journey, a bit scary at times, but I know who's leading.
And, this one really struck me."While some people asked where God was during such a human tragedy, I came home with another question burning in my gut," Gary admits. "I wanted to know where God's people were."Where are God's people? Where are you?
God Moments
Reading through the Power for Living from church this morning, God opened my eyes to some interesting things.
There was a story about Gary Haugen who runs International Justice Mission. Their purpose is to work with local authorities to dig up evidence and bring prosecutions in foreign countries against those guilty of abuse and slavery.
I found it very interesting how God had gifted him, and used those gifts for His glory. It made me ponder how God gifts each one of us, and as we use those gifts as He draws them out, we are ultimately happier, and God is glorified. Gary "felt called to live out his faith and education by investing in a cause bigger than himself." God purposely gave him those gifts, and then allowed the education in his life. I can think of so many things in my life that God has gifted me in, and taught me in, that could be used for His glory. I find, too, that those are the times I am truly happy.Just think, every little gift that is in each one of us reveals another aspect of who God is in some way.
Scripture says we are created in His likeness. What an amazing, diverse God! Who are we to limit Him to the boxes we define?Another interesting quote was from Micah 6:8 "In Micah 6:8 God tells us that the bottom line agenda for His people is to do justice and love mercy and walk humbly with Him." How simple our relationship with God should be, and how complicated we want to make it. Adding so many extra requirements to it. I am learning how to walk humbly with God, and removing so many of those extra worldly add-ons that consume my time and energy. It is an interesting journey, a bit scary at times, but I know who's leading.
And, this one really struck me."While some people asked where God was during such a human tragedy, I came home with another question burning in my gut," Gary admits. "I wanted to know where God's people were."Where are God's people? Where are you?
Battle Cry
Monday, February 16, 2009
Battle Cry
Alexis attended a youth group event this past weekend with her peers from church, and came home with a great book by Ron Luce called "Battle Cry for my Generation". She also came home beaming! From a weekend of being soaked in praise and worship and amazing speakers for the glory of God! I am jealous!
But, onto the book....I picked it up this morning, just to skim thru so I can expect to discuss it with her in the following days. I have to admit, I wanted to hide it, and stick my head in the sand, rather than let my baby girl be exposed to what this ugly world really is about. Yes, there is beauty to be found, as after all it is God's creation, but what man has done to it is ugly. The culture we are trying to raise our kids in is ugly. And dangerous.
I struggle with how much and how soon to share the details with our emerging teenager. We have chosen to immerse them in the word, so that at least they have God's measuring rod to use when the time comes to see these things for themselves.Ron Luce writes to the teenager about the media, etc., that battle for their money, time and affection. All those things that are contrary to God's word. False promises in the joys and attitudes that this world would bring, primarily in sex, media, removing Christ and His word and values, living to please ourselves. First thought was, she is 13, I do not want to get into the nitty gritty of sex.... But, I am left no choice. Even if we try to avoid it, we are bombarded by it daily. Even with our choice of having no incoming television, patrolling internet use, and hand picking movies for our children, we cannot avoid the issue as the world throws it at them. It is all around them. Again, we try to head it off by showing them God's design on the subject. But, the ripe old age of 13 will bring many new opportunities to see it as the world does.
Another topic he delves into is the devil and his schemes. Something I have been pondering for some time, as I have seen the same issues in my life. He calls Christians to be Warriors, rather than just Social Club Members. I definitely have been failing in that area, and was encouraged yet again to run to the battle line in defense of my family, and also others that God is bringing before us. Myself included.
Consider these quotes, and see if your day is not changed. Mine was....
Stop playing patty cake with the devil.
No more letting him destroy precious lives. You cannot just sit by and hope that the devil will just give up and stop fighting against you.
Jesus Christ did not give His life to start a social club; His church was meant to be an army.
Advancing the kingdom takes alot more than just going to church and singing "Kum-ba-yah".
Living for Christ was never meant to be a part-way thing. It is a radical, life changing decision to give the controls of your life over to God - forever.
It is a moral obligation of every soldier to run to the fight and engage the enemy until the battle is won.
Over the weekend I watched the movie Braveheart. For all the gore, blood, and gruesome scenes, it is a movie that I keep coming back to. It makes me think of what am I willing to give up my whole life and dreams to fight for? Robert the Bruce, in talking to his father, made the comment (to the effect of) "I almost lost hope. I will never lose hope again!" In that moment, he got off the fence, and fought on the side of William Wallace, and eventually the kingdom was won. I have, in a sense, lost hope in... (fill in the blank for yourself). I find myself fighting to regain it, and longing for God to reveal it, and to again have the strength to run to the battle lines for the sake of The Kingdom. In His way, He brings the encouragement needed. Leaving me here, struggling, so that I can be renewed in His strength alone, until the time comes to pick up the sword again and get back out on the battlefield.
Battle Cry
Alexis attended a youth group event this past weekend with her peers from church, and came home with a great book by Ron Luce called "Battle Cry for my Generation". She also came home beaming! From a weekend of being soaked in praise and worship and amazing speakers for the glory of God! I am jealous!
But, onto the book....I picked it up this morning, just to skim thru so I can expect to discuss it with her in the following days. I have to admit, I wanted to hide it, and stick my head in the sand, rather than let my baby girl be exposed to what this ugly world really is about. Yes, there is beauty to be found, as after all it is God's creation, but what man has done to it is ugly. The culture we are trying to raise our kids in is ugly. And dangerous.
I struggle with how much and how soon to share the details with our emerging teenager. We have chosen to immerse them in the word, so that at least they have God's measuring rod to use when the time comes to see these things for themselves.Ron Luce writes to the teenager about the media, etc., that battle for their money, time and affection. All those things that are contrary to God's word. False promises in the joys and attitudes that this world would bring, primarily in sex, media, removing Christ and His word and values, living to please ourselves. First thought was, she is 13, I do not want to get into the nitty gritty of sex.... But, I am left no choice. Even if we try to avoid it, we are bombarded by it daily. Even with our choice of having no incoming television, patrolling internet use, and hand picking movies for our children, we cannot avoid the issue as the world throws it at them. It is all around them. Again, we try to head it off by showing them God's design on the subject. But, the ripe old age of 13 will bring many new opportunities to see it as the world does.
Another topic he delves into is the devil and his schemes. Something I have been pondering for some time, as I have seen the same issues in my life. He calls Christians to be Warriors, rather than just Social Club Members. I definitely have been failing in that area, and was encouraged yet again to run to the battle line in defense of my family, and also others that God is bringing before us. Myself included.
Consider these quotes, and see if your day is not changed. Mine was....
Stop playing patty cake with the devil.
No more letting him destroy precious lives. You cannot just sit by and hope that the devil will just give up and stop fighting against you.
Jesus Christ did not give His life to start a social club; His church was meant to be an army.
Advancing the kingdom takes alot more than just going to church and singing "Kum-ba-yah".
Living for Christ was never meant to be a part-way thing. It is a radical, life changing decision to give the controls of your life over to God - forever.
It is a moral obligation of every soldier to run to the fight and engage the enemy until the battle is won.
Over the weekend I watched the movie Braveheart. For all the gore, blood, and gruesome scenes, it is a movie that I keep coming back to. It makes me think of what am I willing to give up my whole life and dreams to fight for? Robert the Bruce, in talking to his father, made the comment (to the effect of) "I almost lost hope. I will never lose hope again!" In that moment, he got off the fence, and fought on the side of William Wallace, and eventually the kingdom was won. I have, in a sense, lost hope in... (fill in the blank for yourself). I find myself fighting to regain it, and longing for God to reveal it, and to again have the strength to run to the battle lines for the sake of The Kingdom. In His way, He brings the encouragement needed. Leaving me here, struggling, so that I can be renewed in His strength alone, until the time comes to pick up the sword again and get back out on the battlefield.
My Thesis on Pain
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
My Thesis on Pain
Being I have had ample time to ponder such things, and first hand experience of late, I have come up with some pretty good theories on pain. To nit pick it apart, to the ultimate glory of God, and trying to figure out how it all fit's into His plan, I have first figured out that first of all it just hurts! Plain and simple.
Now, as to the reasons God might have for pain: sanctification and evidence of the fall.In my case, surgery, sanctification would not be my first way of explaining away pain. Although, it certainly is a by product. Sanctification, in my understanding, are the things that God uses us to shape and mold us to be more Christ like. I all ready tried this approach, and some how could not compare my pain to, say, what Christ or Paul suffered. Pain with a reason, and endured for a cause.
Therefor, my final conclusion, is that pain reveals again evidence of the fall. Genesis talks briefly about the paradise that God created for Adam and Eve. It is assumed that there was no pain or toil, as these things were given after the sin occurred. Pain reveals that our bodies are dying because of the curse, and as promised, it is painful. The other promises therefor are worth holding onto all the more. The new bodies we will one day be given that will be perfect, never dying. The promise of God bottling up all our tears. The promises of God never leaving us. The hopes of perfection to come in all things.
So, with all this in mind, I gladly take what God has also designed, Vicadin. I could come up with more biblical evidence, but being I would have to get up and walk in order to get my Bible to do that, and the vicadin will soon be kicking in, you'll just have to take my word for it.
My Thesis on Pain
Being I have had ample time to ponder such things, and first hand experience of late, I have come up with some pretty good theories on pain. To nit pick it apart, to the ultimate glory of God, and trying to figure out how it all fit's into His plan, I have first figured out that first of all it just hurts! Plain and simple.
Now, as to the reasons God might have for pain: sanctification and evidence of the fall.In my case, surgery, sanctification would not be my first way of explaining away pain. Although, it certainly is a by product. Sanctification, in my understanding, are the things that God uses us to shape and mold us to be more Christ like. I all ready tried this approach, and some how could not compare my pain to, say, what Christ or Paul suffered. Pain with a reason, and endured for a cause.
Therefor, my final conclusion, is that pain reveals again evidence of the fall. Genesis talks briefly about the paradise that God created for Adam and Eve. It is assumed that there was no pain or toil, as these things were given after the sin occurred. Pain reveals that our bodies are dying because of the curse, and as promised, it is painful. The other promises therefor are worth holding onto all the more. The new bodies we will one day be given that will be perfect, never dying. The promise of God bottling up all our tears. The promises of God never leaving us. The hopes of perfection to come in all things.
So, with all this in mind, I gladly take what God has also designed, Vicadin. I could come up with more biblical evidence, but being I would have to get up and walk in order to get my Bible to do that, and the vicadin will soon be kicking in, you'll just have to take my word for it.
To The Music
Monday, January 26, 2009
To the Music
As I was cleaning my desk, I found this wonderful piece by Betsy Childs, from A Slice of Infinity, from July 2007. It was so fitting to where God has me, and made me want to dance in the aisles of Aldi's next time I go shopping!
~
I once heard historian Randall Balmer tell a story about the time he and his wife decided to take ballroom dancing lessons. They learned to count out the patterns of steps and tried to coordinate their feet while at the same time remembering the sequence of steps for each dance. Learning the form of a dance can be more stressful than it is relaxing, especially for a beginner.He then recounted an incident that took place shortly after their dancing lesson. They were on a routine shopping trip, and as they pushed the cart down the flourescently lit aisle, a song began playing over the p.a. system that meant something to them. Caught up in the emotion brought on by their song, Balmer and his wife began to dance in the aisle.
It wasn't a dance that the dance instructor would have recognized; the dance was their own expression of the love they shared.Couples who are truly proficient in any kind of ballroom dancing could perform a graceful dance without any music. To waltz, one need only keep count in series of threes and follow the steps; music is not essential.
While I imagine that a perfectly executed waltz is a thrill to perform (I wouldn't know), the dance that Balmer and his wife preferred was the one in the supermarket. In their dance class, they had been trying to keep track of the beats. In the shopping aisle, they were following the music.
I believe this is as good an illustration as any of the difference between legalism and faith lived out. The first sees a list of rules and tries its best to conform to the rules, to keep in step, and to avoid mistakes. Legalism is often deeply sincere. It may not spring from a desire for superiority, but from a genuine desire to learn the dance.The alternative to legalism - I'll call it "living faith" - may produce results that are nearly identical to the fruit of legalism. People who live by faith will conform to many rules, and faith leads to all sort of righteous acts. But while legalism is the imposition of external behaviors, living faith springs from the Spirit.
Does your faith feel like an exhausting effort to keep up with an impossible beat? If so, you might be living with a legalistic mindset, forgetting the love that is meant to be at the heart of the life of your soul. God is not waiting around for us to get our act together; He is wooing us, and He wants us to experience his love. If we don't really know or taste his goodness, our attempts at righteousness will bring us nothing.
The psalmist entreats us: "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth burst into jubilant song with music" Psalm 98:4. God doesn't want outward conformity; He wants us to be so full of his glory and goodness that we can't keep still. If you've learned to dance without music, slow down and listen. God has spoken to us. Let his promises and his pledge of faithfulness guide your steps, and you will find that a dance will spring to life.
To the Music
As I was cleaning my desk, I found this wonderful piece by Betsy Childs, from A Slice of Infinity, from July 2007. It was so fitting to where God has me, and made me want to dance in the aisles of Aldi's next time I go shopping!
~
I once heard historian Randall Balmer tell a story about the time he and his wife decided to take ballroom dancing lessons. They learned to count out the patterns of steps and tried to coordinate their feet while at the same time remembering the sequence of steps for each dance. Learning the form of a dance can be more stressful than it is relaxing, especially for a beginner.He then recounted an incident that took place shortly after their dancing lesson. They were on a routine shopping trip, and as they pushed the cart down the flourescently lit aisle, a song began playing over the p.a. system that meant something to them. Caught up in the emotion brought on by their song, Balmer and his wife began to dance in the aisle.
It wasn't a dance that the dance instructor would have recognized; the dance was their own expression of the love they shared.Couples who are truly proficient in any kind of ballroom dancing could perform a graceful dance without any music. To waltz, one need only keep count in series of threes and follow the steps; music is not essential.
While I imagine that a perfectly executed waltz is a thrill to perform (I wouldn't know), the dance that Balmer and his wife preferred was the one in the supermarket. In their dance class, they had been trying to keep track of the beats. In the shopping aisle, they were following the music.
I believe this is as good an illustration as any of the difference between legalism and faith lived out. The first sees a list of rules and tries its best to conform to the rules, to keep in step, and to avoid mistakes. Legalism is often deeply sincere. It may not spring from a desire for superiority, but from a genuine desire to learn the dance.The alternative to legalism - I'll call it "living faith" - may produce results that are nearly identical to the fruit of legalism. People who live by faith will conform to many rules, and faith leads to all sort of righteous acts. But while legalism is the imposition of external behaviors, living faith springs from the Spirit.
Does your faith feel like an exhausting effort to keep up with an impossible beat? If so, you might be living with a legalistic mindset, forgetting the love that is meant to be at the heart of the life of your soul. God is not waiting around for us to get our act together; He is wooing us, and He wants us to experience his love. If we don't really know or taste his goodness, our attempts at righteousness will bring us nothing.
The psalmist entreats us: "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth burst into jubilant song with music" Psalm 98:4. God doesn't want outward conformity; He wants us to be so full of his glory and goodness that we can't keep still. If you've learned to dance without music, slow down and listen. God has spoken to us. Let his promises and his pledge of faithfulness guide your steps, and you will find that a dance will spring to life.
Philippians 3:7-11
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Phillipians 3:7-11
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his suffering, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
~
This passage has really made me stop and evaluate my own relationship with Christ. I had just read on somebodies blog the other day that Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship. As God usually does, he again brings more conviction on that same note, to re-evaluate where I am at. Do I really know God as an intimate friend? Am I putting my effort into religion, or the relationship? Do I really consider everything else a loss compared to knowing Him? Do I really want to know the fellowship of sharing in His suffering, becoming like Him in death? How do those things play out in my life? Then those little whispers sneak in, saying, what does it really matter?What does it really matter? I guess only because it was the God of the universe who designed it to be this way. Only because it is eternity on the line. Only because one day it is God I will stand before to give account to. Paul clearly points out, here and throughout Philippians, that it is through Christ that we are made righteous for this salvation. What a concept that all this is really rubbish, when compared to gaining Christ. Off to my day, and trying to realize fully what this all means.
Phillipians 3:7-11
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his suffering, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.
~
This passage has really made me stop and evaluate my own relationship with Christ. I had just read on somebodies blog the other day that Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship. As God usually does, he again brings more conviction on that same note, to re-evaluate where I am at. Do I really know God as an intimate friend? Am I putting my effort into religion, or the relationship? Do I really consider everything else a loss compared to knowing Him? Do I really want to know the fellowship of sharing in His suffering, becoming like Him in death? How do those things play out in my life? Then those little whispers sneak in, saying, what does it really matter?What does it really matter? I guess only because it was the God of the universe who designed it to be this way. Only because it is eternity on the line. Only because one day it is God I will stand before to give account to. Paul clearly points out, here and throughout Philippians, that it is through Christ that we are made righteous for this salvation. What a concept that all this is really rubbish, when compared to gaining Christ. Off to my day, and trying to realize fully what this all means.
Not Sure if I'm There Yet
Monday, January 19, 2009
Not sure if I'm there yet
Reading through a pamphlet from church yesterday, I came across a very convicting and encouraging sentence. A young gentleman, after being gorged by a bull and surviving the whole ordeal, came out of it with the following thoughts:
~
As a result I told the Lord He could use my life and my abilities to do what He had in mind
~
Wow! It humbled me on the spot. Especially because I had just been whining to the Lord about all my dreams and hopes and plans of how everything could be perfect in my life. I guess I forgot for a few minutes that He knows what He's doing, and really doesn't need my opinion. Right where I am, struggling with all the "me" things, is right where He wants me. Ouch! Guess it's a lot more me, than anything else, then. Better suck it up and repent.
~
I try to see and encourage our kids in the abilities that God has given them, and find ways for them to use them in their lifes to glorify God. Somehow I have missed doing this for myself. Or else have been only wanting to use certain abilities, instead of the ones God has been drawing out, and also refusing to let go of the one's He is painfully pruning. Again, I hold my hands wide open and accept what He has to offer, and get out of bed and make the coffee; strong, please, and extra cream....
Not sure if I'm there yet
Reading through a pamphlet from church yesterday, I came across a very convicting and encouraging sentence. A young gentleman, after being gorged by a bull and surviving the whole ordeal, came out of it with the following thoughts:
~
As a result I told the Lord He could use my life and my abilities to do what He had in mind
~
Wow! It humbled me on the spot. Especially because I had just been whining to the Lord about all my dreams and hopes and plans of how everything could be perfect in my life. I guess I forgot for a few minutes that He knows what He's doing, and really doesn't need my opinion. Right where I am, struggling with all the "me" things, is right where He wants me. Ouch! Guess it's a lot more me, than anything else, then. Better suck it up and repent.
~
I try to see and encourage our kids in the abilities that God has given them, and find ways for them to use them in their lifes to glorify God. Somehow I have missed doing this for myself. Or else have been only wanting to use certain abilities, instead of the ones God has been drawing out, and also refusing to let go of the one's He is painfully pruning. Again, I hold my hands wide open and accept what He has to offer, and get out of bed and make the coffee; strong, please, and extra cream....
Family Verse 2009
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Family Verse 2009
I have been reading through Ephesians, and found some wonderful verses that I have decided to focus on this year for our family.
~
Ephesians 4:16b, 23, 29, and 31-32. [This family] builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. [We will] be made new in the attitudes of our minds. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
~
That should help their mother control herself this year. The kids were a little disappointed that I had changed our family motto, tho. Unbeknownst to me, I guess our unspoken family motto from last year had come from either Romans or 2nd Hesitations, and was "Let us behave decently"!
Family Verse 2009
I have been reading through Ephesians, and found some wonderful verses that I have decided to focus on this year for our family.
~
Ephesians 4:16b, 23, 29, and 31-32. [This family] builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. [We will] be made new in the attitudes of our minds. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
~
That should help their mother control herself this year. The kids were a little disappointed that I had changed our family motto, tho. Unbeknownst to me, I guess our unspoken family motto from last year had come from either Romans or 2nd Hesitations, and was "Let us behave decently"!
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