When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,What a glory He sheds on our way!While we do His good will, He abides with us still,And with all who will trust and obey.
Refrain
Trust and obey, for there’s no other wayTo be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.
Not a shadow can rise, not a cloud in the skies,But His smile quickly drives it away;Not a doubt or a fear, not a sigh or a tear,Can abide while we trust and obey.
Refrain
Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share,But our toil He doth richly repay;Not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross,But is blessed if we trust and obey.
Refrain
But we never can prove the delights of His loveUntil all on the altar we lay;For the favor He shows, for the joy He bestows,Are for them who will trust and obey.
Refrain
Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet.Or we’ll walk by His side in the way.What He says we will do, where He sends we will go;Never fear, only trust and obey.
Refrainv
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Thankful
In all things we're supposed to give thanks. I'm thankful for my parents and my family! I'm thankful that I'm employed! I'm thankful that I had insurance when I had to go to the doctor today. I'm thankful that I've found a church where I want to be there every Sunday! I would also like to get involved in a life group, I'll be researching that further. I'm thankful that this is one of my favorite months of the year because of how beautiful the scenery is around me. I'm thankful that I was able to go for a walk last night. I'm thankful that I know God's grace and mercy. I'm thankful for new friends! I'm thankful that God is in control and I don't have to be. In all that I say and do I want to glorify my Heavenly Father!
Email: Sack Lunch
The Sack Lunches
I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in my assigned seat. It was going to be a long flight. 'I'm glad I have a good book to read. Perhaps I will get a short nap,' I thought.Just before take-off, a line of soldiers came down the aisle and filled all the vacant seats, totally surrounding me. I decided to start a conversation. 'Where are you headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.'Chicago - to Great Lakes Base. We'll be there for two weeks for special training, and then we're being deployed to Iraq ' After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made that sack lunches were available for five dollars. It would be several hours before we reached Chicago, and I quickly decided a lunch would help pass the time. As I reached for my wallet, I overheard soldier ask his buddy if he planned to buy lunch. 'No, that seems like a lot of money for just a sack lunch. Probably wouldn't be worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to Chicago ' His friend agreed. I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying lunch. I walked to the back of the plane and handed the flight attendant a fifty dollar bill. 'Take a lunch to all those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezed tightly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was a soldier in Iraq; it's almost like you are doing it for him.' Picking up ten sacks, she headed up the aisle to where the soldiers were seated. She stopped at my seat and asked, 'Which do you like best - beef or chicken?' 'Chicken,' I replied, wondering why she asked. She turned and went to the front of plane, returning a minute later with a dinner plate from first class. 'This is your thanks.' After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the plane, heading for the rest room. A man stopped me. 'I saw what you did. I want to be part of it. Here, take this.' He handed me twenty-five dollars. Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain coming down the aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he walked, I hoped he was not looking for me, but noticed he was looking at the numbers only on my side of the plane. When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand, an said, 'I want to shake your hand.' Quickly unfastening my seatbelt I stood and took the Captain's hand. With a booming voice he said, 'I was a soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of kindness I never forgot.' I was embarrassed when applause was heard from all of the passengers. Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch my legs. A man who was seated about six rows in front of me reached out his hand, wanting to shake mine. He left another twenty-five dollars in my palm. When we landed in Chicago I gathered my belongings and started to deplane. Waiting just inside the airplane door was a man who stopped me, put something in my shirt pocket, turned, and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five dollars! Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for their trip to the base. I walked over to them and handed them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time to reach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich. God Bless You.' Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect of their fellow travelers. As I walked briskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return. These soldiers were giving their all for our country. I could only give them a couple of meals. It seemed so little...A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life wrote a blank check Made payable to 'The United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.' That is Honor, and there are way too many people in This country who no longer understand it.'
I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in my assigned seat. It was going to be a long flight. 'I'm glad I have a good book to read. Perhaps I will get a short nap,' I thought.Just before take-off, a line of soldiers came down the aisle and filled all the vacant seats, totally surrounding me. I decided to start a conversation. 'Where are you headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.'Chicago - to Great Lakes Base. We'll be there for two weeks for special training, and then we're being deployed to Iraq ' After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made that sack lunches were available for five dollars. It would be several hours before we reached Chicago, and I quickly decided a lunch would help pass the time. As I reached for my wallet, I overheard soldier ask his buddy if he planned to buy lunch. 'No, that seems like a lot of money for just a sack lunch. Probably wouldn't be worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to Chicago ' His friend agreed. I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying lunch. I walked to the back of the plane and handed the flight attendant a fifty dollar bill. 'Take a lunch to all those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezed tightly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was a soldier in Iraq; it's almost like you are doing it for him.' Picking up ten sacks, she headed up the aisle to where the soldiers were seated. She stopped at my seat and asked, 'Which do you like best - beef or chicken?' 'Chicken,' I replied, wondering why she asked. She turned and went to the front of plane, returning a minute later with a dinner plate from first class. 'This is your thanks.' After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the plane, heading for the rest room. A man stopped me. 'I saw what you did. I want to be part of it. Here, take this.' He handed me twenty-five dollars. Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain coming down the aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he walked, I hoped he was not looking for me, but noticed he was looking at the numbers only on my side of the plane. When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand, an said, 'I want to shake your hand.' Quickly unfastening my seatbelt I stood and took the Captain's hand. With a booming voice he said, 'I was a soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of kindness I never forgot.' I was embarrassed when applause was heard from all of the passengers. Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch my legs. A man who was seated about six rows in front of me reached out his hand, wanting to shake mine. He left another twenty-five dollars in my palm. When we landed in Chicago I gathered my belongings and started to deplane. Waiting just inside the airplane door was a man who stopped me, put something in my shirt pocket, turned, and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five dollars! Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for their trip to the base. I walked over to them and handed them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time to reach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich. God Bless You.' Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect of their fellow travelers. As I walked briskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return. These soldiers were giving their all for our country. I could only give them a couple of meals. It seemed so little...A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life wrote a blank check Made payable to 'The United States of America ' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.' That is Honor, and there are way too many people in This country who no longer understand it.'
10/21/08
Maybe because I'm home today I have too much time to think. The good news is I don't have strep throat, just some kind of virus! On one of the websites I use most often the scripture of the day is Psalm 40:8 “I desire to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.” Then on the way home from my doctor appointment I kept thinking about Proverbs 3: 5-6 "5) Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6) in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" I can't keep pulling this back, I really have to let it go. I have to acknowledge that His ways are infinitely better than mine and I see only a small portion of the big picture.
No turning back
I'm thinking right now. There are some conflicting emotions going on. I was going to just write a big long complaint but that's really not going to accomplish anything or help me put it in perspective. So I was browsing and came across Romans 8. The chapter starts off with:
Romans 8: 1-4 "1) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2) because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3) For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, 4) in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. "
I'm free, I'm a new creation in Christ. He was willing to die for me so that I would be able to have eternal life. I am no longer to live according to the whims and desires of whatever feels "good". When we are truly living life by seeking after His ways then we find true contentment in Him.
Romans 8: 5-8 "5) Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6) The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; 7) the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8) Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. " Our purpose is to please God, to live our lives seeking after Him. We were created to worship the Lord and give praise and honor to His name. NO I do not always feel like this, especially today. But then I take a step back and I look at the bigger picture. Jesus DIED for me on a cross. I don't have to "do" anything because it's already been done. I didn't receive salvation because of something I could ever do but because my Savior lived a perfect life and died and rose again and offers to EVERYONE the free gift of salvation.
Romans 8: 9-11 "9) You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10) But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11) And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. "
Galations 2: 20-21 "20) I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21) I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" I can't earn my salvation. I have to give up my desires to the Lord and know that if He loved me so much that He was willing to die for me then the plan He has for me is way bigger and better then anything I could imagine for myself.
Romans 8: 1-4 "1) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2) because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3) For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, 4) in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit. "
I'm free, I'm a new creation in Christ. He was willing to die for me so that I would be able to have eternal life. I am no longer to live according to the whims and desires of whatever feels "good". When we are truly living life by seeking after His ways then we find true contentment in Him.
Romans 8: 5-8 "5) Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6) The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; 7) the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. 8) Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. " Our purpose is to please God, to live our lives seeking after Him. We were created to worship the Lord and give praise and honor to His name. NO I do not always feel like this, especially today. But then I take a step back and I look at the bigger picture. Jesus DIED for me on a cross. I don't have to "do" anything because it's already been done. I didn't receive salvation because of something I could ever do but because my Savior lived a perfect life and died and rose again and offers to EVERYONE the free gift of salvation.
Romans 8: 9-11 "9) You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10) But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11) And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. "
Galations 2: 20-21 "20) I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21) I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!" I can't earn my salvation. I have to give up my desires to the Lord and know that if He loved me so much that He was willing to die for me then the plan He has for me is way bigger and better then anything I could imagine for myself.
Friday, October 17, 2008
When we are weak
2nd Corinthians 12:9-10 "9) But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10) That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
I am working to keep my focus on the Lord. It is easy when times are good to say that the Lord is good and can do all things. It is when the hard times come that I have trouble because while I believe the Lord does for other people I sometimes have the doubt that He does for me, because I don't deserve it. I know that this is a lie and I refuse to accept it. With my crazy schedule I often repeat that I am weak but because of Jesus in my heart I am strong. He is able to carry me when I am so tired I feel that there is no way I can keep going. I was listening to my Natalie Grant "Relentless" CD on my way home from the restaurant. The last track on the album is an old hymn. "In Christ Alone" In Christ alone my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save ‘Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again And as He stands in victory Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me From life’s first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand ‘til He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand. I know that my Hope is in Christ alone and He is all I need. No matter how impossible this situation seems I have the knowledge that God will provide.
I am working to keep my focus on the Lord. It is easy when times are good to say that the Lord is good and can do all things. It is when the hard times come that I have trouble because while I believe the Lord does for other people I sometimes have the doubt that He does for me, because I don't deserve it. I know that this is a lie and I refuse to accept it. With my crazy schedule I often repeat that I am weak but because of Jesus in my heart I am strong. He is able to carry me when I am so tired I feel that there is no way I can keep going. I was listening to my Natalie Grant "Relentless" CD on my way home from the restaurant. The last track on the album is an old hymn. "In Christ Alone" In Christ alone my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save ‘Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again And as He stands in victory Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me From life’s first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand ‘til He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand. I know that my Hope is in Christ alone and He is all I need. No matter how impossible this situation seems I have the knowledge that God will provide.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
I realized
I'm now beyond the year mark of the breakup from August of 2007. I look back at the times when I wondered if I would ever feel like me again. I had to face down (and still do) some pretty significant inner monsters. 1st Corinthians 6: 19-20 "19) Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20) you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." You always hear how it's important "be yourself". This starts with actually knowing who you are. I now have a clearer understanding of what I've been told (my entire life) that my life is not my own I am to be a living testament b/c I have Jesus in my heart. So when it comes to dating I was thinking about how I've always heard you have to "know who you are" before you can be in a "healthy" relationship. When you start trying to change "you" in order to fit what you think the other person wants it's just not going to work. I was thinking about the relationship where I had changed so much that one day I looked in a mirror and no longer knew who I was. I had tried so hard to fit whatever it was that I thought they wanted. When we had initially started dating I thought I had found someone I could be myself with. I left and I still pray that he will one day forgive me and not see me as a manipulative liar. This hurts because I know that I did the right thing but we each have our own side to the story.
Fast forward to February thru April when we were watching my Grandaddy during those last few weeks. I had a peace b/c I knew that the presence of the Lord was with us. Interesting to me how in my personal walk with the Lord I was growing and then I chose to date someone who was a distraction and pulled me away from the standards I was trying to set for myself. It took me finally realizing that this person while seemingly mild mannered and very nice actually wanted me to step away from what I believe to be absolute truth. I walked away because I understood that there was no "being myself" and to continue on would have been untrue to who I am. That was actually an easy break up, no hard feeling just a mutual understanding that it would never work.
I'm seeing someone now. It's early on, and yet from the very start everything is different. First and formost he puts God first. To me that was the number 1 requirement. He lives not far from where I do. After having been the person who has usually had to go to someone the idea of not having to be on the road all the time is nice. He's younger than I am, I'm not so weirded out by this fact anymore. We took a 2 week "time out" to put God first. It was something we felt we needed to do. I have never in any relationship taken a step back to pray. I just haven't wanted to acknowledge that if it's supposed to happen it will happen in God's time. I don't know what the future holds. I'm definitely excited I get to know this person better! I also know that my hope doesn't come from earthly things, be that money, possessions, status, or someone I'm dating but my hope is in the Lord, and He provides all that I need.
Fast forward to February thru April when we were watching my Grandaddy during those last few weeks. I had a peace b/c I knew that the presence of the Lord was with us. Interesting to me how in my personal walk with the Lord I was growing and then I chose to date someone who was a distraction and pulled me away from the standards I was trying to set for myself. It took me finally realizing that this person while seemingly mild mannered and very nice actually wanted me to step away from what I believe to be absolute truth. I walked away because I understood that there was no "being myself" and to continue on would have been untrue to who I am. That was actually an easy break up, no hard feeling just a mutual understanding that it would never work.
I'm seeing someone now. It's early on, and yet from the very start everything is different. First and formost he puts God first. To me that was the number 1 requirement. He lives not far from where I do. After having been the person who has usually had to go to someone the idea of not having to be on the road all the time is nice. He's younger than I am, I'm not so weirded out by this fact anymore. We took a 2 week "time out" to put God first. It was something we felt we needed to do. I have never in any relationship taken a step back to pray. I just haven't wanted to acknowledge that if it's supposed to happen it will happen in God's time. I don't know what the future holds. I'm definitely excited I get to know this person better! I also know that my hope doesn't come from earthly things, be that money, possessions, status, or someone I'm dating but my hope is in the Lord, and He provides all that I need.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Relationship Advice
My Godsister just sent me an email and in it she shared a piece of advise that she received and I appreciated it so much I want to put it in writing. "Someone once told me that Godly relationships are like a triangle. If you and the other person are the bottom corners and God is at the top and you both strive to grow closer to God in your relationship you will also grow closer to each other at the same time. I always thought that was pretty cool and it helps you to keep a perspective. Continue to focus on Him and God will let everything else fall into place no matter how hard it is to remain patient. "
Phillipians 4:4-9
"4) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5) Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7) And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8) Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9) Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
What a comfort to know that no matter what happens God is always there! This past 2 weeks I've been praying and focusing on my relationship with the Lord. In so many areas of my life amazing things are happening! Last night I was told that the person renting my extra room is moving out and I have to give them money back. I'm trying really hard not to be resentful. I'm so glad that they are going that I shouldn't be so angry towards them. More than anything I'm stressed because of the fact that this puts me in another financial hole. I know that God is in control of everything including my finances but right now when I look at it from a human perspective it makes me ANXIOUS. I can't undo my past. I know that my generosity benefited a lot of people. I just wish I could get out of this hole that I've fallen into where money is concerned. I tithe because I know that God is God and money is not my god but right now writing that check is such a step of faith, every single time! I'm thankful that I have a house, I'm incredibly thankful for my parents who have gone above and beyond for me! I'm thankful that God is God and He is in control over all things!
What a comfort to know that no matter what happens God is always there! This past 2 weeks I've been praying and focusing on my relationship with the Lord. In so many areas of my life amazing things are happening! Last night I was told that the person renting my extra room is moving out and I have to give them money back. I'm trying really hard not to be resentful. I'm so glad that they are going that I shouldn't be so angry towards them. More than anything I'm stressed because of the fact that this puts me in another financial hole. I know that God is in control of everything including my finances but right now when I look at it from a human perspective it makes me ANXIOUS. I can't undo my past. I know that my generosity benefited a lot of people. I just wish I could get out of this hole that I've fallen into where money is concerned. I tithe because I know that God is God and money is not my god but right now writing that check is such a step of faith, every single time! I'm thankful that I have a house, I'm incredibly thankful for my parents who have gone above and beyond for me! I'm thankful that God is God and He is in control over all things!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
My House
Since Father's day weekend I've had an individual living in my house and it has been horribly akward. Thru out the summer I was gone so much I was able to deal with the situation. Last week I informed the person that I would be increasing the rent by $100 as of 11/1. They gave me their notice that they would be out by 11/1.
This was the desired result. So then my prayer was that God would provide a Christian female roommate who I would be able to get along with. I think this prayer might have just been answered. I will probably find out Thursday if I have a new roommate. I will be so excited if this works out! It will be such a God thing! This is a term I picked up from one of my best friends. It means that very clearly you see how God's hand moved the circumstances in order that something would work out for His best!
Ephesians 3:20 "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."
This was the desired result. So then my prayer was that God would provide a Christian female roommate who I would be able to get along with. I think this prayer might have just been answered. I will probably find out Thursday if I have a new roommate. I will be so excited if this works out! It will be such a God thing! This is a term I picked up from one of my best friends. It means that very clearly you see how God's hand moved the circumstances in order that something would work out for His best!
Ephesians 3:20 "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Home Again
After a long car ride home we made it safely back to Charlotte. It really was nice to have the time with my mom and dad in the car. We have to stop 5 times b/c either mom or I need the break. This trip was such a blessing! Seeing my Godfamily was wonderful and I'm so glad that I was able to take the time from work and that Mom and Dad were willing to make the drive up there. We took a different route home b/c of the main road out of Pittsburgh being closed and the scenery was gorgeous!! I'm so glad Dad was driving!
I got home and took a walk. I've really been focusing on praising the Lord and trying not to be anxious about anything. I know that God is in control and He loves us and wants His best for us.
I got home and took a walk. I've really been focusing on praising the Lord and trying not to be anxious about anything. I know that God is in control and He loves us and wants His best for us.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
The girls
I arrived in Pittsburgh on Thursday afternoon with my Mom and Dad. Friday morning the girls, minus the 2 little girls set out for a day of outlet shopping, oh the fun we had!! We wrapped up the day with homemade nachos and an ice cream cake, YUM!! This morning we eased into the day and then all the girls went to the women's expo that was going on today. My Godsister has a double stroller and we pushed the girls up and down the rows. Baby Sarah is 6 weeks old and Mia is 2 1/2. It has been such an incredible joy spending time with them. We stopped over at the Babies R Us and Mom and I picked up some gifts from the registry of another friend of mine who's expecting in November. Then Mia needed a nap before dinner. We all went out to dinner at a place called Atria's that has the yummiest pot roast nachos ever!! There was a high school dance going on and the girls were all coming in dressed to the 9's it made for quite a show!! Sarah slept thru the entire dinner. We came back here for ice cream. Then I got to hold Sarah and feed her and cuddle her.
I completely understand that little people are not all fun and games. My Godsister was putting the girls in the car to take them home for a nap and I was free to go with my Mom and Aunt Linda to Marshall's to look for a gift. I know that right now my Godsister is functioning on not much sleep at all and she's running after Mia and trying to keep up with everything. She's on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week. She does an awesome job but I know that she is exhausted. Mia is into everything these days so it makes life just that more interesting.
However while I was holding Sarah and watching her I was just so amazed. She is so beautiful and perfect from her 10 long fingers to her 10 perfect toes to her beautiful beautiful face! I look at Mia and her blue eyes and beautiful skin and pretty lips and I'm just blown away. I look at them both and wonder what they will be like when they grow up. I wonder what their interests will be and what they will do. They have a whole future ahead of them that they don't yet comprehend. I didn't meet Mia for the first time until she was 1 1/2. It had just taken me that long to get here. With Sarah I knew I couldn't wait that long. Life is too short and babies grow to fast to let that kind of time elapse.
I wish we had a few more days but I'll be waking up early tomorrow to head back home with Mom and Dad.
I completely understand that little people are not all fun and games. My Godsister was putting the girls in the car to take them home for a nap and I was free to go with my Mom and Aunt Linda to Marshall's to look for a gift. I know that right now my Godsister is functioning on not much sleep at all and she's running after Mia and trying to keep up with everything. She's on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week. She does an awesome job but I know that she is exhausted. Mia is into everything these days so it makes life just that more interesting.
However while I was holding Sarah and watching her I was just so amazed. She is so beautiful and perfect from her 10 long fingers to her 10 perfect toes to her beautiful beautiful face! I look at Mia and her blue eyes and beautiful skin and pretty lips and I'm just blown away. I look at them both and wonder what they will be like when they grow up. I wonder what their interests will be and what they will do. They have a whole future ahead of them that they don't yet comprehend. I didn't meet Mia for the first time until she was 1 1/2. It had just taken me that long to get here. With Sarah I knew I couldn't wait that long. Life is too short and babies grow to fast to let that kind of time elapse.
I wish we had a few more days but I'll be waking up early tomorrow to head back home with Mom and Dad.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Monroeville, PA
I'm so proud of my parents we were actually in the car and on the road by 5 am today. We stopped in Wytheville VA for gas and breakfast. Then we stopped 4 more times before reaching Monroeville around 2 this afternoon.
Kristy had picked Aunt Linda up from work and they had Mia and Sarah. Mia has gotten SO BIG! She's talking in sentences and is so beautiful! Sarah is a few days past a month old and she's beautiful! She's tiny and perfect and I'm so so glad that we have been able to come up to see everyone.
Time goes by so fast and I just appreciate these times that we have with one another. We had yummy homemade Lasagna tonight and tomorrow the girls are hitting the outlets, whoohoo!! :)
On the way up we were listening to a CD about why to believe in the God in the Bible. It was awesome but my favorite part was this.
"I was praying that God would give me an analogy that people could really wrap their arms around. I had a vision of racks of black bowling balls and each one had white writing on the front representing the different religions of the world. On the inside of the balls was all the teachings of the religions and on the back side of all these black bowling balls was the word in white do. But in the center of all these balls was a white bowling ball that said Jesus and on the back of this ball was the word done" Chrisitanity is the only world's religion that is not about the works you do to get to heaven. Christianity is the belief that we have been saved by God's grace. The battle has already been won, we already know the outcome. We have victory and eternal life thru the death that Jesus died on the cross. He is the way the truth and the life and NO ONE comes to the Father except thru Him.
Kristy had picked Aunt Linda up from work and they had Mia and Sarah. Mia has gotten SO BIG! She's talking in sentences and is so beautiful! Sarah is a few days past a month old and she's beautiful! She's tiny and perfect and I'm so so glad that we have been able to come up to see everyone.
Time goes by so fast and I just appreciate these times that we have with one another. We had yummy homemade Lasagna tonight and tomorrow the girls are hitting the outlets, whoohoo!! :)
On the way up we were listening to a CD about why to believe in the God in the Bible. It was awesome but my favorite part was this.
"I was praying that God would give me an analogy that people could really wrap their arms around. I had a vision of racks of black bowling balls and each one had white writing on the front representing the different religions of the world. On the inside of the balls was all the teachings of the religions and on the back side of all these black bowling balls was the word in white do. But in the center of all these balls was a white bowling ball that said Jesus and on the back of this ball was the word done" Chrisitanity is the only world's religion that is not about the works you do to get to heaven. Christianity is the belief that we have been saved by God's grace. The battle has already been won, we already know the outcome. We have victory and eternal life thru the death that Jesus died on the cross. He is the way the truth and the life and NO ONE comes to the Father except thru Him.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Too Cute
I had to write this down so I can look back and smile. I have the part time restaurant job and one of the girls who I grew up with (her parents are part of my parents Sunday Lunch crew) needed a part time job as well. I told her how to go about the application process and she got the job. She's a fast learner and she's a perfect fit!
She's also Mykayla's mom, I've mentioned Mykayla in a previous post. So she picks Mykayla up last night and they're driving home and she tells her that she worked with me, here is the quote that makes me smile
"you mean the favored girl that Aunt Gail loves the best in the world?” Often times Mykayla's grandparents have her on Friday nights when her Mom has stuff going on. Friday nights are usually the night that my parents and their friends go to Captain Steve's restaurant. When I can I join everyone so I can catch up with them. Mom is always telling Mykayla that I'm her favorite girl, it's an ongoing thing that we have. That is where the quote came from and I just think it's too cute that it came up last night!
She's also Mykayla's mom, I've mentioned Mykayla in a previous post. So she picks Mykayla up last night and they're driving home and she tells her that she worked with me, here is the quote that makes me smile
"you mean the favored girl that Aunt Gail loves the best in the world?” Often times Mykayla's grandparents have her on Friday nights when her Mom has stuff going on. Friday nights are usually the night that my parents and their friends go to Captain Steve's restaurant. When I can I join everyone so I can catch up with them. Mom is always telling Mykayla that I'm her favorite girl, it's an ongoing thing that we have. That is where the quote came from and I just think it's too cute that it came up last night!
So thankful
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Jeremiah 29:12-13 "Then you will call upon me and come pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
This morning I'm tired, physically, mentally, I've crammed 5 days of work into 2 and I have 1 day of work left to go. So instead of dwelling on all this instead I'm going to think about what I'm thankful for.
I'm thankful I have a Heavenly Father who loved me so much that He sent His only son so that I would be saved thru His grace.
I'm thankful for my parents. I've taken them for granted for such a long time and I am truly appreciative for all the times that they've been there!
I'm thankful that I've found my west coast cousins thru my space and facebook and have been able to talk to them a little bit and get an idea of what's going on in their lives.
I'm thankful for my Grandmommy who has always called me her beautiful butterfly. She is amazing and I'm blessed that she is still able to share life with us!
I'm thankful for all the rest of my family.
I'm thankful for my 2 jobs that I can work and have the flexibility needed to have 2.
I'm thankful for all my different coworkers who keep life so interesting.
I'm thankful that I was able to go to college, especially App State :)
I'm thankful that I get to go see my Godfamily tomorrow.
I'm thankful that the weather is changing and it is so beautiful outside!
I'm thankful that there are just 7 days left out of the 14 days!
Isaiah 42:9 "See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you."
I'm thankful that God is in control and He is doing amazing things in my life.
This morning I'm tired, physically, mentally, I've crammed 5 days of work into 2 and I have 1 day of work left to go. So instead of dwelling on all this instead I'm going to think about what I'm thankful for.
I'm thankful I have a Heavenly Father who loved me so much that He sent His only son so that I would be saved thru His grace.
I'm thankful for my parents. I've taken them for granted for such a long time and I am truly appreciative for all the times that they've been there!
I'm thankful that I've found my west coast cousins thru my space and facebook and have been able to talk to them a little bit and get an idea of what's going on in their lives.
I'm thankful for my Grandmommy who has always called me her beautiful butterfly. She is amazing and I'm blessed that she is still able to share life with us!
I'm thankful for all the rest of my family.
I'm thankful for my 2 jobs that I can work and have the flexibility needed to have 2.
I'm thankful for all my different coworkers who keep life so interesting.
I'm thankful that I was able to go to college, especially App State :)
I'm thankful that I get to go see my Godfamily tomorrow.
I'm thankful that the weather is changing and it is so beautiful outside!
I'm thankful that there are just 7 days left out of the 14 days!
Isaiah 42:9 "See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you."
I'm thankful that God is in control and He is doing amazing things in my life.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Psalm 105:1-4
"1) Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done. 2) Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of all His wonderful acts. 3) Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 4) Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always."
Today has been a busy day but I've still had time to think. Perhaps b/c I'm 6 days into a 14 day time of prayer that is why I'm feeling so unsteady. So I'm doing exactly what the Psalm says, I'm so thankful for all that the Lord has done in my life. I'm aware that economically and politically there is much turmoil all over the world and yet God is in Control. My hope doesn't come from my 401 K but from my Heavenly Father. My hope and my salvation are in Him. When I look around during this time of year I'm always reminded of the wonders of God's creation. It's SO beautiful to look at the landscape and see the gorgeous fall colors! I enjoy taking a moment to stop and look around me and appreciate the beauty that is God's handiworks! I'm also reminded of a song I used to sing when I was little, "my God is SO BIG So STRONG and SO MIGHTY there's nothing my God can not do. The mountains are His the valleys are His the stars are His handiwork too..." As we get wrapped up in the day to day hustle it's easy to forget that the imminent pressing details of our daily lives are just a small part of the big picture.
I've made poor financial decisions in the past but I'm moving forward and God has blessed me with 2 jobs. He's provided me the home that I have and parents who are a constant source of support and love. I have the opportunity this week to travel with my parents and see my Godfamily and gas prices are dropping which is such a blessing since we're driving up to PA.
I'm thankful for the education I received when I was younger because even though I walked away and pushed against it I now understand that I have been given the gift of knowledge that I would not have otherwise had.
I'm so thankful that my Grandmother is home and resting comfortably from the hospital. She was in all last week as the doctors tried to figure out what was going on with her. I know probably the biggest factor is she misses my Grandaddy. We are selfish in that we want her to stay around for the longest time. We love her so much and all want to make sure that she's taken care of. She's had an impact in the lives of her family and friends and I've been so blessed to have such an amazing Grandmommy!
I'm excited that one of my best friends is about to become a mom! I cried when she gave me the news and I'm sure I'll cry again when baby T arrives. Tears of joy, that we're welcoming a new little person into the world :)
I'm thankful to have the opportunity to take 2 weeks, 14 days to put God first and pray so that He can show me what He needs me to know and allow me to clear out the dark corners that I've kept hiding for so long. The past is the past and I've made mistakes but those are covered in the blood. His joy and love are amazing! My strength is not my own. I understand that we can do all things thru Christ. My hope comes not in tangible things that can be seen but in the knowledge that our Heavenly Father has amazing plans for us.
Today has been a busy day but I've still had time to think. Perhaps b/c I'm 6 days into a 14 day time of prayer that is why I'm feeling so unsteady. So I'm doing exactly what the Psalm says, I'm so thankful for all that the Lord has done in my life. I'm aware that economically and politically there is much turmoil all over the world and yet God is in Control. My hope doesn't come from my 401 K but from my Heavenly Father. My hope and my salvation are in Him. When I look around during this time of year I'm always reminded of the wonders of God's creation. It's SO beautiful to look at the landscape and see the gorgeous fall colors! I enjoy taking a moment to stop and look around me and appreciate the beauty that is God's handiworks! I'm also reminded of a song I used to sing when I was little, "my God is SO BIG So STRONG and SO MIGHTY there's nothing my God can not do. The mountains are His the valleys are His the stars are His handiwork too..." As we get wrapped up in the day to day hustle it's easy to forget that the imminent pressing details of our daily lives are just a small part of the big picture.
I've made poor financial decisions in the past but I'm moving forward and God has blessed me with 2 jobs. He's provided me the home that I have and parents who are a constant source of support and love. I have the opportunity this week to travel with my parents and see my Godfamily and gas prices are dropping which is such a blessing since we're driving up to PA.
I'm thankful for the education I received when I was younger because even though I walked away and pushed against it I now understand that I have been given the gift of knowledge that I would not have otherwise had.
I'm so thankful that my Grandmother is home and resting comfortably from the hospital. She was in all last week as the doctors tried to figure out what was going on with her. I know probably the biggest factor is she misses my Grandaddy. We are selfish in that we want her to stay around for the longest time. We love her so much and all want to make sure that she's taken care of. She's had an impact in the lives of her family and friends and I've been so blessed to have such an amazing Grandmommy!
I'm excited that one of my best friends is about to become a mom! I cried when she gave me the news and I'm sure I'll cry again when baby T arrives. Tears of joy, that we're welcoming a new little person into the world :)
I'm thankful to have the opportunity to take 2 weeks, 14 days to put God first and pray so that He can show me what He needs me to know and allow me to clear out the dark corners that I've kept hiding for so long. The past is the past and I've made mistakes but those are covered in the blood. His joy and love are amazing! My strength is not my own. I understand that we can do all things thru Christ. My hope comes not in tangible things that can be seen but in the knowledge that our Heavenly Father has amazing plans for us.
Tuesday
I closed at the restaurant last night. Today I'm having serious trouble focusing and I have a TON of stuff to do before tomorrow. Then I leave to go see the PA crew, which I'm SO SO SO SO excited about, I may have mentioned this before :)
I had a dream about snakes last night that caused me to wake up with a scream. It was creepy! At least the scream woke me up but it's odd that this is the 2nd time in less than 4 weeks that I've had dreams where I've actually woken myself up!
I had a dream about snakes last night that caused me to wake up with a scream. It was creepy! At least the scream woke me up but it's odd that this is the 2nd time in less than 4 weeks that I've had dreams where I've actually woken myself up!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Little People
I just had an email from my mom about my upcoming trip to PA. My Godsister just had a baby over labor day weekend and I'm travelling up with my parents for a visit this week. I have been so excited about this trip. It's always wonderful to see everyone but the girls definitely hold a special place in my heart.
Over the past couple of years I have several friends who I have grown up with or who have become a part of my adult life who have married. Many of these friends have now had at least one child. Some have had children on their own. I've always really like children. In high school I babysat and volunteered in the nursery. In reflecting on my excitement about seeing the girls it makes me think about the others. I try not to use names very often but in this case I will.
I have Mia and Sarah who I'm going to visit. I'm meeting Sarah for the first time and I am so excited to see Mia! Mikayla, she's a mess and a princess and she is going to be 4 in just a few weeks. Mikayla reminds me SO MUCH of her mom when her mom was that age! Kaylen is my college roommates little girl and I love spending time with them and watching my friend as a mom. I think she does an amazing job! Evan is the little man who is about to become a big brother. He's the valentine's baby and the smallest baby I've ever held, I was there to visit the day he came home from the hospital. His mom has had a huge impact on my life! Chase was born a month later and although I don't see him that often I still think about him. I also held Chase the day he came home from the hospital. Isaac is in VA and I only met him for the first time this month. He's precious and I keep up with him because his mom does a great job on his blog! I have friends whose children I keep up with thru pictures on my space and facebook. My friend who was in Wisconsin and has moved to SC, and none too soon, is due November 7. I am SO looking forward to meeting Baby T!!! I really think she'll be an awesome mom! What a blessing that I've had the opportunity to share in so much life!
Over the past couple of years I have several friends who I have grown up with or who have become a part of my adult life who have married. Many of these friends have now had at least one child. Some have had children on their own. I've always really like children. In high school I babysat and volunteered in the nursery. In reflecting on my excitement about seeing the girls it makes me think about the others. I try not to use names very often but in this case I will.
I have Mia and Sarah who I'm going to visit. I'm meeting Sarah for the first time and I am so excited to see Mia! Mikayla, she's a mess and a princess and she is going to be 4 in just a few weeks. Mikayla reminds me SO MUCH of her mom when her mom was that age! Kaylen is my college roommates little girl and I love spending time with them and watching my friend as a mom. I think she does an amazing job! Evan is the little man who is about to become a big brother. He's the valentine's baby and the smallest baby I've ever held, I was there to visit the day he came home from the hospital. His mom has had a huge impact on my life! Chase was born a month later and although I don't see him that often I still think about him. I also held Chase the day he came home from the hospital. Isaac is in VA and I only met him for the first time this month. He's precious and I keep up with him because his mom does a great job on his blog! I have friends whose children I keep up with thru pictures on my space and facebook. My friend who was in Wisconsin and has moved to SC, and none too soon, is due November 7. I am SO looking forward to meeting Baby T!!! I really think she'll be an awesome mom! What a blessing that I've had the opportunity to share in so much life!
It's Monday again
I just have to reflect back over my weekend for a moment. I worked Friday night and that was uneventful, it was actually even a little slow! I was looking forward to Saturday because my Mom and I were going to the Metrolina Flea Market. I met my parents at their house at 9:00 on Saturday morning and after breakfast Mom and I headed out.
I'm amazed at the doors that have been opened with my communication with my Mom. I'm also thankful that she has been so understanding. It can't be easy for her to hear some of the information that she is hearing and yet she loves me. I'm so amazed by how quickly these walls that I've built have fallen. I'm greatful that I've been able to be honest because now the path is clear for God to really be able to use me. I have no secrets and nothing to hide. I know that He has big plans. Yesterday at church we celebrated the sacrament of communion and talked about why it is so special and important. We also heard about baptism and why it's important and then afterwards those who have not been baptized had the opportunity to be baptized. We recited the Apostles Creed as our statement of faith for what we believe. During the time while I was praying and waiting for everyone to receive communion I began thinking back. July 3, 2005 was the first time I attended a service at Forest Hill. I was touched that first service by the word I heard. I still fought against submitting to God. I still wasn't living a Christian life. I would continue to pursue my own way and though I would hear amazing messages I was having trouble reconciling self.
As I was contemplating all this I realized how far God has brought me in this 3 years. He has changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. Now is my turn to take all that He has done and share with others that He can do so much for them. It is time for me to start to give back more than just my tithe but also my time. I'm not sure what doors are to be opened. I'm blessed by family and friends. I'm not a patient person but God sure has been patient with me. He kept calling me thru all the things that I was going thru and I would hear Him but push Him away. It took a lot for me to finally break and understand that the most important thing is putting the Lord first in my life. In all that I say and do.
After church I went to brunch with one of my girl friends who I've known since college days. After brunch we went shoe shopping for her. I was able to resist (for the most part) it was made easier by the fact that I helped her pick out 6 pairs of shoes. They were all a fabulous fabulous deal so we're both very excited by her find!! Then she and I walked the 5 mile loop. She is awesome and talking to her has been a great encouragement!
I'm amazed at the doors that have been opened with my communication with my Mom. I'm also thankful that she has been so understanding. It can't be easy for her to hear some of the information that she is hearing and yet she loves me. I'm so amazed by how quickly these walls that I've built have fallen. I'm greatful that I've been able to be honest because now the path is clear for God to really be able to use me. I have no secrets and nothing to hide. I know that He has big plans. Yesterday at church we celebrated the sacrament of communion and talked about why it is so special and important. We also heard about baptism and why it's important and then afterwards those who have not been baptized had the opportunity to be baptized. We recited the Apostles Creed as our statement of faith for what we believe. During the time while I was praying and waiting for everyone to receive communion I began thinking back. July 3, 2005 was the first time I attended a service at Forest Hill. I was touched that first service by the word I heard. I still fought against submitting to God. I still wasn't living a Christian life. I would continue to pursue my own way and though I would hear amazing messages I was having trouble reconciling self.
As I was contemplating all this I realized how far God has brought me in this 3 years. He has changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. Now is my turn to take all that He has done and share with others that He can do so much for them. It is time for me to start to give back more than just my tithe but also my time. I'm not sure what doors are to be opened. I'm blessed by family and friends. I'm not a patient person but God sure has been patient with me. He kept calling me thru all the things that I was going thru and I would hear Him but push Him away. It took a lot for me to finally break and understand that the most important thing is putting the Lord first in my life. In all that I say and do.
After church I went to brunch with one of my girl friends who I've known since college days. After brunch we went shoe shopping for her. I was able to resist (for the most part) it was made easier by the fact that I helped her pick out 6 pairs of shoes. They were all a fabulous fabulous deal so we're both very excited by her find!! Then she and I walked the 5 mile loop. She is awesome and talking to her has been a great encouragement!
Friday, October 3, 2008
First
I had one of those light bulb moments. I was sitting at my desk scanning and the thought occurred to me that I've been saying how important it is that whoever I date put God first. I realized that it is just as important for me to be 100% sold out as well. If I'm not then that wouldn't be equal to the person I'm dating who is 100% sold out. My first desire is no longer what I want but what God wants.
Interestingly enough I grew up always hearing this. Apparently it's taken over 20 years for this to all finally click into place. Fortunately for me I have over 20 years of background in understanding why I believe what I believe. For many years I have been unwilling to enter into debate and sometimes even conversation regarding what I believe because I did not wish to risk stepping on toes or offending people. But now I understand that if you don't stand up for what you believe then you're not following the whole purpose of serving God. I say all this because last night at work I had a conversation with one of our servers. The conversation started due to the fact that the VP debate was on. This led into a conversation on pro-life vs choice. This led into a topic of organized religion. This particular individual grew up in the Roman Catholic Church. I believe that God created the world and Adam and Eve. I believe that Christ came to earth as a perfect human example and died for our sins so that we might have life eternal. I believe that the Bible has been translated down and is actually the infallible word of God. Are there parts of the Bible that have been misconstrued by religious fanatics over the years, yes. Christians have been marked as hypocrits, biggots, liars, fanatical, etc... My generation in particular seems to have a hard time accepting anything to do with Christianity or the church because they say that it is all a pack of lies and the statement I hear often is "I'm a good person I believe in God but I don't have to go to Church to believe that there is a God." We've gone so far to be politically correct that we no longer recognize black and white but seem to live in a grey area. God speaks so clearly about being luke warm, he will not tolerate it, at all. Revelation 3:15-16 "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." I know that Revelation is one of the most controversial books of the Bible. But I think it speaks very clearly to the way that we should be living our lives. Revelation 3:6; Revelation 3:13 and Revelation 3:22 all say "He who has an ear let him hear what the spirit says to the churches."
In the past when I would come across a conversation like the one I had last night I would have most likely been listening and saying very little. I know Christians walk a fine line because often times we are taken as being judgemental. Jesus spent the majority of His time not with people of the religious community but among the people. He showed such love for the people. I have not been called to judge but to love as Christ loved. This sounds a little obscure so I've got to expound a little more. In our conversation I listened. But I also maintained very clearly where I stood. Then I looked for openings. Example, I was told it was "amazing that a plane go go thru the air the way that it does and man created that and that is amazing". I said, "but it was God who gave the engineers the ability to be able to think and plan". To which I received a shrug and an "I don't believe that I believe that it was man". But I made the statement. I told the server that it is not my place to judge others. I think that when we come across as condemning, condescending and judgemental we turn people off to the message that we're supposed to be sharing. The most important message is that God loved the world (all of us) so much that he sent His only Son into the world to live as a perfect example and show how we can all have life abundant and then Jesus died the most horrific death imagineable and was separated from His Holy Heavenly Father so that we have the grace and forgiveness that comes not thru anything that we can actually do but thru the price that was paid for us. In this world where it's just not cool to be a part of organized religion and it's just not acceptable to make a stand and say that Jesus is the way the truth and the Life, I have decided to make that stand. When opportunities present themself like the one last night I want to be able to take the moment and be a reflection of the love of Christ. Not condemning, not turning someone off b/c I'm so judgmental that they can't even talk to me but letting the love of Christ shine thru me so that I might be a light. I want people to say, she's different, what makes her so different? For it's not just the words we use but the example that we set.
Interestingly enough I grew up always hearing this. Apparently it's taken over 20 years for this to all finally click into place. Fortunately for me I have over 20 years of background in understanding why I believe what I believe. For many years I have been unwilling to enter into debate and sometimes even conversation regarding what I believe because I did not wish to risk stepping on toes or offending people. But now I understand that if you don't stand up for what you believe then you're not following the whole purpose of serving God. I say all this because last night at work I had a conversation with one of our servers. The conversation started due to the fact that the VP debate was on. This led into a conversation on pro-life vs choice. This led into a topic of organized religion. This particular individual grew up in the Roman Catholic Church. I believe that God created the world and Adam and Eve. I believe that Christ came to earth as a perfect human example and died for our sins so that we might have life eternal. I believe that the Bible has been translated down and is actually the infallible word of God. Are there parts of the Bible that have been misconstrued by religious fanatics over the years, yes. Christians have been marked as hypocrits, biggots, liars, fanatical, etc... My generation in particular seems to have a hard time accepting anything to do with Christianity or the church because they say that it is all a pack of lies and the statement I hear often is "I'm a good person I believe in God but I don't have to go to Church to believe that there is a God." We've gone so far to be politically correct that we no longer recognize black and white but seem to live in a grey area. God speaks so clearly about being luke warm, he will not tolerate it, at all. Revelation 3:15-16 "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." I know that Revelation is one of the most controversial books of the Bible. But I think it speaks very clearly to the way that we should be living our lives. Revelation 3:6; Revelation 3:13 and Revelation 3:22 all say "He who has an ear let him hear what the spirit says to the churches."
In the past when I would come across a conversation like the one I had last night I would have most likely been listening and saying very little. I know Christians walk a fine line because often times we are taken as being judgemental. Jesus spent the majority of His time not with people of the religious community but among the people. He showed such love for the people. I have not been called to judge but to love as Christ loved. This sounds a little obscure so I've got to expound a little more. In our conversation I listened. But I also maintained very clearly where I stood. Then I looked for openings. Example, I was told it was "amazing that a plane go go thru the air the way that it does and man created that and that is amazing". I said, "but it was God who gave the engineers the ability to be able to think and plan". To which I received a shrug and an "I don't believe that I believe that it was man". But I made the statement. I told the server that it is not my place to judge others. I think that when we come across as condemning, condescending and judgemental we turn people off to the message that we're supposed to be sharing. The most important message is that God loved the world (all of us) so much that he sent His only Son into the world to live as a perfect example and show how we can all have life abundant and then Jesus died the most horrific death imagineable and was separated from His Holy Heavenly Father so that we have the grace and forgiveness that comes not thru anything that we can actually do but thru the price that was paid for us. In this world where it's just not cool to be a part of organized religion and it's just not acceptable to make a stand and say that Jesus is the way the truth and the Life, I have decided to make that stand. When opportunities present themself like the one last night I want to be able to take the moment and be a reflection of the love of Christ. Not condemning, not turning someone off b/c I'm so judgmental that they can't even talk to me but letting the love of Christ shine thru me so that I might be a light. I want people to say, she's different, what makes her so different? For it's not just the words we use but the example that we set.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Forest Hill Amani Event
Faith and FashionCome join the women of Charlotte as we link arms with our sisters from Africa for a high end fashion narrative..."Sankofa...Look back...Walk forward." This event will be one of the stops on their inaugural US City Tour. Through brilliant costumes, choreography, lighting and music, women from Africa use the fashion runway as their stage to depict courageous journeys from war-torn homes to their new community. We will view fashion and accessories designed and created by these women, as well as have the opportunity to purchase these one of a kind fashions as we hear powerful stories of "separation, transformation and celebration."7:30 Fashion Show - purchase ticket at, www.amaniafrica.orgPlease be in prayer about inviting a friend to hear how Jesus Christ can truly change a woman's life whether she lives in Charlotte or Africa.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Old Songs
I heard a song last night that I haven't heard in such a long time! Not since elemantary school probably. "I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back". As I seek after His way it means that this has to be in all areas of my life. Sometimes this is an easy thing to say but to actually follow it is more difficult. We're human, we're naturally selfish that means wanting our own way, all the time. But I truly have decided to follow Him and that means not turning back to the old ways of dealing with things but truly seeking to hear what He has to say.
1st
For most of my adult life I have pursued the goals that I wanted. So now that I'm changing the focus and seeking to put God first and follow His ways it means that I'm not exactly sure how it's all supposed to work. This may come across as a bizarre statement but it's one of these situations where I'm wondering how am I even going to know... On a daily basis I'm surrounded by work and noise and things pulling for my attention. My desire is to follow His direction and I'm trying to pay attention to what that might be. The best I know to do is pray for clarity that when it's what I'm supposed to do I'll know that I know that I know. I knew when I broke up with my last boyfriend that even though I wondered if I was self sabotaging myself I also knew that he was not someone I could ever share a future with b/c of the difference in our personal beliefs.
So then I prayed for certain speficics but even meeting someone who meets all those specifically prayed for items still means that we have to seek the direction that He has for us. I guess the best I can do is hold onto Jeremiah 29:12-13 "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." So if I'm seeking after the Lord with my whole heart then I have to believe that the Lord will find me and I'll know His direction.
So then I prayed for certain speficics but even meeting someone who meets all those specifically prayed for items still means that we have to seek the direction that He has for us. I guess the best I can do is hold onto Jeremiah 29:12-13 "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." So if I'm seeking after the Lord with my whole heart then I have to believe that the Lord will find me and I'll know His direction.
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