Daily Bible Verse
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Thank You!
Sunday night was AMAZING! Maple Grove Christian Church ROCKS-- for our outreach project to collect goods for the homeless, we ended up with 23 backpacks and they are filled to the brim with items that certainly will substain the body and soul! Our ladies ministry jumped on board and donated 23 handmade blankets, that are WARM, soft, and BIG! Thanks to our church family and many others that donated money, food, clothes, winterwear, socks, flashlights, handwarmers,ponchos,hygeine products, (the list goes on and on)....And AMAZINGLY, a couple donated a Bible for each and every backpack. God is good!!
Slideshow to come this evening of the youth in action...of the Body of Christ in action!
Slideshow to come this evening of the youth in action...of the Body of Christ in action!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
My theology Paragraph
We are doing some awesome studing in Sunday School! Our assignment this week is to write a paragraph on our Christian Worldviws of Theology. This is designed to be a work in progress. As I grow and learn and discern! So far...
I believe in Theism. I believe that God exist and created the universe and all that the universe contains. I base this belief on not only what the bible tells me, through special revelation… but what scientific evidence shows revealing that the Bible is true through general revelation. I believe that the intricate design of a human being could not be left to mere chance and by all means points to a designer who is intelligent, powerful, and loving. I believe in morality and that there is absolute right and absolute wrong. I believe that in order for this to be true, there has to be one who began the “law” of morality in the first place. I believe that we did not just “become” one day from a bunch of unknown matter…I believe that we were thought out and planned and created. I know that God desires a relationship with me and wants me to live eternally with Him. For this reason He sent His son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the incarnate of God in human flesh. By His blood we are redeemed. God also exist as the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us freely. The Holy Spirit helps to guide us, convict us, and give us insight into God’s word. I believe in the Trinity, the Godhead in three…Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each are separate and yet all are God. I believe God judges our actions and yet is loving and full of mercy. I believe that the blood of Christ covers our sins if we ask for it, believe in it, and repent. I believe that I am fully forgiven and have life anew through Jesus Christ. I believe that the work of the Holy Spirit helps me to grow daily through prayer, study, and reading the Word. I believe that I must fill my mind, my thoughts, my mouth daily with the word of God, and let my actions reveal my motive.
2 Corinthians 13:14 "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."
I believe in Theism. I believe that God exist and created the universe and all that the universe contains. I base this belief on not only what the bible tells me, through special revelation… but what scientific evidence shows revealing that the Bible is true through general revelation. I believe that the intricate design of a human being could not be left to mere chance and by all means points to a designer who is intelligent, powerful, and loving. I believe in morality and that there is absolute right and absolute wrong. I believe that in order for this to be true, there has to be one who began the “law” of morality in the first place. I believe that we did not just “become” one day from a bunch of unknown matter…I believe that we were thought out and planned and created. I know that God desires a relationship with me and wants me to live eternally with Him. For this reason He sent His son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the incarnate of God in human flesh. By His blood we are redeemed. God also exist as the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us freely. The Holy Spirit helps to guide us, convict us, and give us insight into God’s word. I believe in the Trinity, the Godhead in three…Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each are separate and yet all are God. I believe God judges our actions and yet is loving and full of mercy. I believe that the blood of Christ covers our sins if we ask for it, believe in it, and repent. I believe that I am fully forgiven and have life anew through Jesus Christ. I believe that the work of the Holy Spirit helps me to grow daily through prayer, study, and reading the Word. I believe that I must fill my mind, my thoughts, my mouth daily with the word of God, and let my actions reveal my motive.
2 Corinthians 13:14 "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Thankful!
I am so thankful that our God is a God of second chances...of forgivness....a God of love! I am so blessed and so privliged. I am so happy that God has just kept on pursuing me throughout my lifetime, even when I thought HE was the last thing I needed. I keep running into things lately that bring back memories for me of crucial events in my Christian walk. It is amazing to me when I stop to realize events that have happened and been placed before me AND the fact that God saw past those, and saw what lay around the corner. He knew what was to come, and what had to come...what had to happen to make what he wanted to happen. God has blessed me greatly. I pray to live life as would please him.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
gossip in disguise
Not a whole lot of things bug me more than someone disguising gossip as a prayer request. I have had it happen to me, and I really didn't appreciate the person having such a need to tell someone something I had going on...that they had to disguise it as a prayer request. It was a personal medical issue, that they ran to tell others about so they could be first to tell. They will have to answer about their own motive... and they lost my trust in the process.
I read this article today, and thought I should share it.
From: http://www.teens-4-christ.org/various-bible-articles
As a sin, gossip is a dangerous one. Gossip is one of Satan’s best tools. If you have a church that is genuinely on fire for God, how else could Satan effectively destroy the church from the inside out? Like Satan himself, a gossip is subtle, sly, ambiguous and bent toward the destruction of another. Gossip is often concealed behind the mask of “concern” for someone else. Listening to gossip is far more palatable if you are sharing in someone’s concern for another. A conversation may begin with one person saying, “I really hate to bring this up, but I am worried about…” Perhaps the gossip will turn to a confidant saying, “I just don’t know who else I can talk to about this…” If you are a gossip, you can always talk to the Lord about it. After all, the Lord is the one who can ultimately fix the problem. If you are prayed up, you could even consider going directly to the person you are concerned about! Perhaps your concern will be the motivation they need to fix the problem (if there is one at all).
Romans chapter one shows us some very dire consequences for certain actions. The Lord’s view on these sins is dire - the wrath of God is revealed. It is never good to be the object of the wrath of God!
Some gossip is due to a desire to be popular. They wants the attention of other people, other gossips, who are looking for the dirt! In order to be popular she has to spread the dirt, or gossip, around, but she also has to accumulate the dirt. In her slyness, she may come to people seeming concerned, asking, “Are you OK? Is everything alright?” seeking those nuggets to build upon. In her false concern, she reveals her true colors. If she is concerned about someone, wouldn’t it be best to pray about it?
Watch out if there is there anything that needs to be said in a whisper. Gossip flourishes on secrecy and rides on the wheels of a whisper. A gossip is cowardly. If she hears of a problem, she does not consider going to the source of a potential problem. Instead, the gossip will work in the shadows.
Finally, from Romans 1, we see that the gossip is a backbiter, or one who slanders, falsely accuses or speaks ill of the absent. The gossip does not have the courage to confront someone to their face. The gossip can only speak of another behind their back. True, the gossip is a coward, but the gossip is likely only afraid of the truth.
Where there is a talebearer, or gossip, there is strife. We have already looked at the traits and some of the goals of the gossip. Another goal of the gossip is strife. Yes, the gossip is interested in building herself up, in making herself look better, but one of her methods for doing this is not by making herself better, but by making others look worse. The strife she causes is destructive and when the gossip is silenced, the strife ceases.
Jesus gave us a firm warning: we will give an account for every idle word. Will that be a time of pleasure for you or a time of pain?
From:http://www.teens-4-christ.org/various-bible-articles
I read this article today, and thought I should share it.
From: http://www.teens-4-christ.org/various-bible-articles
As a sin, gossip is a dangerous one. Gossip is one of Satan’s best tools. If you have a church that is genuinely on fire for God, how else could Satan effectively destroy the church from the inside out? Like Satan himself, a gossip is subtle, sly, ambiguous and bent toward the destruction of another. Gossip is often concealed behind the mask of “concern” for someone else. Listening to gossip is far more palatable if you are sharing in someone’s concern for another. A conversation may begin with one person saying, “I really hate to bring this up, but I am worried about…” Perhaps the gossip will turn to a confidant saying, “I just don’t know who else I can talk to about this…” If you are a gossip, you can always talk to the Lord about it. After all, the Lord is the one who can ultimately fix the problem. If you are prayed up, you could even consider going directly to the person you are concerned about! Perhaps your concern will be the motivation they need to fix the problem (if there is one at all).
Romans chapter one shows us some very dire consequences for certain actions. The Lord’s view on these sins is dire - the wrath of God is revealed. It is never good to be the object of the wrath of God!
Some gossip is due to a desire to be popular. They wants the attention of other people, other gossips, who are looking for the dirt! In order to be popular she has to spread the dirt, or gossip, around, but she also has to accumulate the dirt. In her slyness, she may come to people seeming concerned, asking, “Are you OK? Is everything alright?” seeking those nuggets to build upon. In her false concern, she reveals her true colors. If she is concerned about someone, wouldn’t it be best to pray about it?
Watch out if there is there anything that needs to be said in a whisper. Gossip flourishes on secrecy and rides on the wheels of a whisper. A gossip is cowardly. If she hears of a problem, she does not consider going to the source of a potential problem. Instead, the gossip will work in the shadows.
Finally, from Romans 1, we see that the gossip is a backbiter, or one who slanders, falsely accuses or speaks ill of the absent. The gossip does not have the courage to confront someone to their face. The gossip can only speak of another behind their back. True, the gossip is a coward, but the gossip is likely only afraid of the truth.
Where there is a talebearer, or gossip, there is strife. We have already looked at the traits and some of the goals of the gossip. Another goal of the gossip is strife. Yes, the gossip is interested in building herself up, in making herself look better, but one of her methods for doing this is not by making herself better, but by making others look worse. The strife she causes is destructive and when the gossip is silenced, the strife ceases.
Jesus gave us a firm warning: we will give an account for every idle word. Will that be a time of pleasure for you or a time of pain?
From:http://www.teens-4-christ.org/various-bible-articles
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
a new ministry?
Read youth culture news, youth ministry articles, and join the fight for America’s young people at http://www.battlecry.com
an excerpt from www.battlecry.com
Youth Group
Much more than just a channel, MTV offers a sense of community to its audience. And impressionable young teenagers are eating it up. By the time they reach adulthood, MTV will be permanently branded into their lives. No wonder MTV says that they own teens.
We think teens hear sermons in church every week and are radically changed, but they get preached at by MTV every day. And those messages stick.
“Tell me what to buy. I trust you.”
“Show me how to dress. I know you only want me to look my best.”
“Give me advice on how to treat this guy or girl in my life. You are the expert on relationships.”
“Should I really try to base my life on Biblical principles? Is sex worth saving for marriage? You know what’s cool. Tell me how to live.”
The media and entertainment industry claims to not shape culture, but only reflect it, giving the audience what they want. But isn’t media forcing more and more questionable content to shock people and keep their ratings high? Just take a look at any sweeps week, and you will see every show push the line to try to grab your attention.
Young people congregate around the MTV pulpit daily and are influenced by it more than any local church or youth group. MTV showcases not just what to listen to or how to dress, but a lifestyle that screams image is everything, sex is a casual, risk-free activity, and fun is the ultimate goal--no matter what the cost.
Young people may have good role models in church and even at home, but what are they learning at the feet of MTV? One study found an average of six violent scenes, eight profanities, and nine instances of sexual content every hour on MTV. Watching an average of six hours a day, you can imagine how much provocative content they see each week.
Watch an episode of “The Real World” to see how “real men and women” view and treat sex--liberally and without restraint. “Total Request Live,” one of MTV’s most popular shows, offers lessons on a variety of topics such as how to deal with a broken heart and how to find a guy or a girl--all from a secular perspective that often makes a mockery of Biblical principles.
One teen said, “I think that MTV is getting teenagers ready for the real world.” MTV prepares them for something, but it is definitely not reality. Like offering ocean water to a person dying of thirst, it just gives them more of what they think they need while leaving them more thirsty and empty than before. Whether they realize it or not, every teen’s soul longs for a relationship with Christ. All MTV has to offer is temporary satisfaction.
more on the website... http://www.battlecry.com
an excerpt from www.battlecry.com
Youth Group
Much more than just a channel, MTV offers a sense of community to its audience. And impressionable young teenagers are eating it up. By the time they reach adulthood, MTV will be permanently branded into their lives. No wonder MTV says that they own teens.
We think teens hear sermons in church every week and are radically changed, but they get preached at by MTV every day. And those messages stick.
“Tell me what to buy. I trust you.”
“Show me how to dress. I know you only want me to look my best.”
“Give me advice on how to treat this guy or girl in my life. You are the expert on relationships.”
“Should I really try to base my life on Biblical principles? Is sex worth saving for marriage? You know what’s cool. Tell me how to live.”
The media and entertainment industry claims to not shape culture, but only reflect it, giving the audience what they want. But isn’t media forcing more and more questionable content to shock people and keep their ratings high? Just take a look at any sweeps week, and you will see every show push the line to try to grab your attention.
Young people congregate around the MTV pulpit daily and are influenced by it more than any local church or youth group. MTV showcases not just what to listen to or how to dress, but a lifestyle that screams image is everything, sex is a casual, risk-free activity, and fun is the ultimate goal--no matter what the cost.
Young people may have good role models in church and even at home, but what are they learning at the feet of MTV? One study found an average of six violent scenes, eight profanities, and nine instances of sexual content every hour on MTV. Watching an average of six hours a day, you can imagine how much provocative content they see each week.
Watch an episode of “The Real World” to see how “real men and women” view and treat sex--liberally and without restraint. “Total Request Live,” one of MTV’s most popular shows, offers lessons on a variety of topics such as how to deal with a broken heart and how to find a guy or a girl--all from a secular perspective that often makes a mockery of Biblical principles.
One teen said, “I think that MTV is getting teenagers ready for the real world.” MTV prepares them for something, but it is definitely not reality. Like offering ocean water to a person dying of thirst, it just gives them more of what they think they need while leaving them more thirsty and empty than before. Whether they realize it or not, every teen’s soul longs for a relationship with Christ. All MTV has to offer is temporary satisfaction.
more on the website... http://www.battlecry.com
Monday, October 19, 2009
Servant Evangelism
There is a book out by Steve Sjogren titled, Conspiracy of Kindness. My nephew had told me about it, and it is a winner!! It is all about sharing the love of Christ with others, but doing it in a practical way. Not all of us are meant to be street evangelist, not all of us are bold and to the point... Not all people who need the evangelism respond to one type of it. This book is a very good read on practical ways to show the love of God, and to do it outside the four walls of your church. Doing something out of love and not for cost, shows a picture of God's grace.
A few things form the introduction: "God is looking for people who are willing to participate in acts of love and kindness to those outside of their present circle." "We want to show you God's love in a practical way." "The goal in servant evangelism it to shine the spotlight on God's kingdom by coming in the spirit of Jesus." " People who have been served to in this way come away with a positive impression of Christianity" "Deeds of kindness get people's attention and cause them to ask questions of why"
Some ideas he gives are, free gift wrapping at a shopping center during the holidays, a group offering to rake leaves at no cost, handing out cups of coffee at a bus stop, bottles of water, rainy day escorts at grocery stores, giving out carbon monoxide detectors, shopping assistance for shut-ins, washing cars... the list goes on and on.
Sometimes we scare people when we try to only tell them, but fail to show them the love of Jesus. Allow them to experiecne the love. Gotta go read some more!
A few things form the introduction: "God is looking for people who are willing to participate in acts of love and kindness to those outside of their present circle." "We want to show you God's love in a practical way." "The goal in servant evangelism it to shine the spotlight on God's kingdom by coming in the spirit of Jesus." " People who have been served to in this way come away with a positive impression of Christianity" "Deeds of kindness get people's attention and cause them to ask questions of why"
Some ideas he gives are, free gift wrapping at a shopping center during the holidays, a group offering to rake leaves at no cost, handing out cups of coffee at a bus stop, bottles of water, rainy day escorts at grocery stores, giving out carbon monoxide detectors, shopping assistance for shut-ins, washing cars... the list goes on and on.
Sometimes we scare people when we try to only tell them, but fail to show them the love of Jesus. Allow them to experiecne the love. Gotta go read some more!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Sonny
I mentioned earlier of meeting someone who is homeless and not really knowing how to respond to their situation or how to help. Well....... Sonny is one of those I have come upon frequently. I almost always come across him when I go to the CVS on the westside, near Joanne Fabrics. There is an orange bench there at the bus stop, this is where Sonny lives, it seems.
I have been dropping things by to Sonny off and on for some time now. I never really knew what to say, so I would quickly just hand him something and then go about my business. Sonny never failed once to say "God bless you" as he took my gift.
In the last month or two homelessness has been heavy on my heart.
God has given me a couple of opportunites lately to actually visit with Sonny. It was a little "awkward" at first finding things to say, but God has put the words in my mouth. Now, as Sonny's trust in me has increased...I am finding I need to say little at all! Sonny loves to talk!
One thing that is really hard for me to comprehend about Sonny is that he would rather sleep out in the cold than sleep at a shelter. When I ask why, he says that he doesn't know if he can trust those people... they are all strangers. He dosen't want to sleep with a bunch of men that he knows nothing about or what they may do. He says that twice he has had everything stolen from him..all his blankets, supplies, literally everything he owned. I can't understand this. Why they would do that OR why he stays outside.... I do not understand how he feels safer curled up in a dark corner somewhere with his belongings in a cart beside him.
The last time I visited Sonny, I invited him to go to church with us. He looked at me with tears in his eyes, and replied "I would like that". This morning when we went to pick Sonny up, I didn't see him at first. As we drove up, I saw he was asleep behind a propane tank on the concrete. One blanket was laid upon the ground, and he had three other blankets on top of him. He had on two hats, 3 pair of gloves, 2 coats, and his boots. He was very suprised to see me. He said he really didn't think that I would come. People have offered before but no one has ever came and picked him up. He looked so cold...
We went and grabbed some breakfast and between bites he told us story after story. I am unsure of what is true and what isn't or if it all is.... I just know that Sonny loves to talk! We got to church and he seemed suddenly a little reserved. He was quiet and even sitting right beside me, he didn't say anything the whole time. Our eyes did meet a couple of times and he just smiled at me. Everyone was very polite and greeted him and even went out of their way to say hello to him. He told me how much God had blessed him this day. He also told me that he had to confess once he got warm, he fell asleep! Not all the way he said, but he was drifting in and out...
On the way back to town, Greg and I offered to put him up in a hotel, but he just thanked us and said that he would like to save that favor until it is colder. I said, are you sure??...we could do it now and then again sometime when it was colder. He just thanked me and said he would be ok. He asked for nothing...... When we got back to "his place" he thanked us again and said, "God bless you." I said you too Sonny, he said "He already has!"
I don't know everything about Sonny. I don't know exactly why he is homeless. I know that he has had medical issues, I know he does not get Medicaid (though I am not sure why, he was trying to tell me some issue about it) I know he grew up in foster homes, he has two older brothers, he hasn't met them...no idea where they are. He is very articulate. Knows the bible, and has a good sense of humor. He says he graduated 2nd in his class, and I beleive that listeninig to him talk.
I don't want to bombard him with questions, I do ask quite a bit though. I don't want to pry AND my help does not come on conditions. I don't really HAVE to know why he lives on the streets (though my curiosity thinks it does!) I also don't want to be "stupid" and get taken advantage of. How can I know though, without taking the opportunity to visit with him? And perhaps I am taken advantage of..my compassion or goodness is taken advantage of?? Well, I still stand before God either way. Personally I prefer to make an attempt to help the man on the side of the road than to walk by him. The one that takes advantage will be the one to give explanation.
I have been dropping things by to Sonny off and on for some time now. I never really knew what to say, so I would quickly just hand him something and then go about my business. Sonny never failed once to say "God bless you" as he took my gift.
In the last month or two homelessness has been heavy on my heart.
God has given me a couple of opportunites lately to actually visit with Sonny. It was a little "awkward" at first finding things to say, but God has put the words in my mouth. Now, as Sonny's trust in me has increased...I am finding I need to say little at all! Sonny loves to talk!
One thing that is really hard for me to comprehend about Sonny is that he would rather sleep out in the cold than sleep at a shelter. When I ask why, he says that he doesn't know if he can trust those people... they are all strangers. He dosen't want to sleep with a bunch of men that he knows nothing about or what they may do. He says that twice he has had everything stolen from him..all his blankets, supplies, literally everything he owned. I can't understand this. Why they would do that OR why he stays outside.... I do not understand how he feels safer curled up in a dark corner somewhere with his belongings in a cart beside him.
The last time I visited Sonny, I invited him to go to church with us. He looked at me with tears in his eyes, and replied "I would like that". This morning when we went to pick Sonny up, I didn't see him at first. As we drove up, I saw he was asleep behind a propane tank on the concrete. One blanket was laid upon the ground, and he had three other blankets on top of him. He had on two hats, 3 pair of gloves, 2 coats, and his boots. He was very suprised to see me. He said he really didn't think that I would come. People have offered before but no one has ever came and picked him up. He looked so cold...
We went and grabbed some breakfast and between bites he told us story after story. I am unsure of what is true and what isn't or if it all is.... I just know that Sonny loves to talk! We got to church and he seemed suddenly a little reserved. He was quiet and even sitting right beside me, he didn't say anything the whole time. Our eyes did meet a couple of times and he just smiled at me. Everyone was very polite and greeted him and even went out of their way to say hello to him. He told me how much God had blessed him this day. He also told me that he had to confess once he got warm, he fell asleep! Not all the way he said, but he was drifting in and out...
On the way back to town, Greg and I offered to put him up in a hotel, but he just thanked us and said that he would like to save that favor until it is colder. I said, are you sure??...we could do it now and then again sometime when it was colder. He just thanked me and said he would be ok. He asked for nothing...... When we got back to "his place" he thanked us again and said, "God bless you." I said you too Sonny, he said "He already has!"
I don't know everything about Sonny. I don't know exactly why he is homeless. I know that he has had medical issues, I know he does not get Medicaid (though I am not sure why, he was trying to tell me some issue about it) I know he grew up in foster homes, he has two older brothers, he hasn't met them...no idea where they are. He is very articulate. Knows the bible, and has a good sense of humor. He says he graduated 2nd in his class, and I beleive that listeninig to him talk.
I don't want to bombard him with questions, I do ask quite a bit though. I don't want to pry AND my help does not come on conditions. I don't really HAVE to know why he lives on the streets (though my curiosity thinks it does!) I also don't want to be "stupid" and get taken advantage of. How can I know though, without taking the opportunity to visit with him? And perhaps I am taken advantage of..my compassion or goodness is taken advantage of?? Well, I still stand before God either way. Personally I prefer to make an attempt to help the man on the side of the road than to walk by him. The one that takes advantage will be the one to give explanation.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Friday, October 09, 2009
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Lay it down
I was reading a book the other day and it spoke of if you really believed that Christ died on the cross for your sins. It asked if you believed that God loved you. It asked if you believe these things, why then do you not accept them?
It went on to say that Jesus did die for our sins, yet he did it in vain in we cannot forgive ourselves.
Lay your past down at the foot of the cross. Put your sins and struggles there every morning. Allow God to fulfill his promises. God did not sacrifice his only son so that we could hold on to the things that are hurting us..... he did it so we could be free. He did it so we didn't have to. Quit crucifying yourself each day. Lay it down, and leave it there.
It went on to say that Jesus did die for our sins, yet he did it in vain in we cannot forgive ourselves.
Lay your past down at the foot of the cross. Put your sins and struggles there every morning. Allow God to fulfill his promises. God did not sacrifice his only son so that we could hold on to the things that are hurting us..... he did it so we could be free. He did it so we didn't have to. Quit crucifying yourself each day. Lay it down, and leave it there.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Jesus was Homeless Too!
Last night I learned alot. Maybe more than I have ever learned in such a short amount of time. Even though the sights were depressing, the spirits were uplifting and the love was true.
I for one have never ever see in real life how it is to be homeless. We went to a couple of bridges that are "homeless communities". As we pulled up, my heart dropped. There were makeshift beds everywhere. Some of the beds were simply wooden crates with a thin blanket over the top. A great number of garbage bags, many containing their only possessions, were lying everywhere. There were end tables sitting around, broken chairs, blankets, bags and bags and bags of stuff. Each person or couple seemed to have a distinct area that was "theirs". Almost like it was their own little home. Everything that they owned in the world packed up beside where they had prepared a place to sleep. Men, women, young, old, black, white...
We all got out and walked into to the areas. We just sort of mingled about, asked them if they would like a backpack....took a few minutes to ask about them, their life. How long they had been there, what had happened, family? We offered to pray with them and share the word. They were so appreciate of the conversation, I think perhaps even more than they were of the backpacks! They did love the packs, were so excited to get them and see what was inside!! They said thanks a thousand times. They smiled and talked about how they had been blessed, how kind we had been. They were eager to talk, eager to receive a hug. A few had made the choice to be there, others had some bad life circumstances, others had issues they were working on to go back home. Several have no family at all. Some were very recent to be there.
One girl, Allie, seemed somewhat embarrassed to accept the pack, and yet desperately wanted it. She took it and smiled and thanked the person that handed it to her. She wanted to talk and yet was a little shy to look you in the face. She was pretty excited that one of the agencies may be able to get her "inside" by November. Another lady, Laura asked for prayer for her two daughters. They are 11 and 16. I am unsure of when she last saw them. Her eyes just lit up when she spoke of them. There was a guy we met named Ricky. Very animated and just happy with life. Great smile and shining eyes. Telling us about how important God is to him, he readily accepted the opportunity for someone to pray for him. I also met a gentleman by the name of Larry. He looked so familiar to me. He lost his job about 3 months ago. First time he has ever been homeless. He has no family at all. NONE. We talked for a really long time. He cried some, we prayed some, we laughed some.... He has some heart issues and has not been able to afford his medications. He asked specifically for prayer for his health and finding a new job. Also met a man named Danny. Real nice guy, jokester. Caring and watchful. On a list to get "inside" as well. I believe he is 4th on the list??
One of the most hurtful things that happens to these people is that they get treated like no one. Like they are no one at all. From what I heard and observed, that bothers them more than being homeless. They just want to be acknowledged. They want a smile, a hello, a nod.
One of the gentleman, that wasn't real sure that we were just Christian people there to do good for no reason other than that we cared....... he was telling me how some of the homeless are drunk every night, pan-handling constantly, sleeping on the sidewalk, peeing on the walls.... He said that they give the rest of the homeless a bad name. That really hit home with me. I told him, "sounds like some Christians I know. They give us all a bad name by being hypocrites, and mean, and uncaring" I told him, you can't judge all of them by the few that have offended you either. He just smiled at me and nodded his head. He said, "your right" and he kept on smiling.
It was a blessed night.
We had 28 people with us on this journey, and not one of them were not used by God to touch another soul. Thank God that Patti's church heard the call. There were many out there under the bridges, and in the lot. From what I understand, the numbers were actually down at the lot that evening.
oh yeah, the lot!! We also went to a "feeding lot" right behind Lucas Oil Stadium.
WOW, there is a ministry called Manna Ministries of Indianapolis, the website is http://www.mannaministriesofindy.org/ GO the the site and DONATE to them!! They are awesome!! This is just a private family that has a great desire to serve God by reaching out to those less fortunate. They have a bus they drive and every single Thursday come rain or shine, at 7:00 p.m. they serve dinner to however many come to the parking lot they set up in. Inside the bus they have socks, hats, gloves, hygiene products, coats, clothing, you name it. Each person that arrives at the lot gets a number. After a short message, each person takes his number up to the food line and gets a meal served to them. Then one by one they call out the numbers and that person gets to go and get on the bus. They have prayer and tell what they need for that week. Then it is given to them as they are able. It is amazing! They so have their heart in the right place. I cannot encourage you enough to go and donate to this family. I am unsure of how they fund the food, or anything else. They have built a relationship with these homeless people and it is inspiring.
so yeah, I went with my cousin Patti last night to an outreach she helped to put together for the homeless. This is something very near and dear to her. She was homeless herself. She was only a small child........alone....in the cold........ on the streets of Indianapolis. Some people have things like this happen in their lives, and they only complain about it. Or perhaps they get out of a situation and then they never look back. NOT Patti, she goes to action and does something to make it better. She is living her life to serve her Lord and his creation to the best of her ability. She is inspiring and uplifting to be around. I greatly appreciate her willingness to serve so freely.
oh I could go on and on and on....... the visions will be forever in my mind. I certainly plan to make this a part of my own outreach. I pray that you might join me. God Bless!! Don't forget to go and donate, you wil lbe blessed and so will they!
I for one have never ever see in real life how it is to be homeless. We went to a couple of bridges that are "homeless communities". As we pulled up, my heart dropped. There were makeshift beds everywhere. Some of the beds were simply wooden crates with a thin blanket over the top. A great number of garbage bags, many containing their only possessions, were lying everywhere. There were end tables sitting around, broken chairs, blankets, bags and bags and bags of stuff. Each person or couple seemed to have a distinct area that was "theirs". Almost like it was their own little home. Everything that they owned in the world packed up beside where they had prepared a place to sleep. Men, women, young, old, black, white...
We all got out and walked into to the areas. We just sort of mingled about, asked them if they would like a backpack....took a few minutes to ask about them, their life. How long they had been there, what had happened, family? We offered to pray with them and share the word. They were so appreciate of the conversation, I think perhaps even more than they were of the backpacks! They did love the packs, were so excited to get them and see what was inside!! They said thanks a thousand times. They smiled and talked about how they had been blessed, how kind we had been. They were eager to talk, eager to receive a hug. A few had made the choice to be there, others had some bad life circumstances, others had issues they were working on to go back home. Several have no family at all. Some were very recent to be there.
One girl, Allie, seemed somewhat embarrassed to accept the pack, and yet desperately wanted it. She took it and smiled and thanked the person that handed it to her. She wanted to talk and yet was a little shy to look you in the face. She was pretty excited that one of the agencies may be able to get her "inside" by November. Another lady, Laura asked for prayer for her two daughters. They are 11 and 16. I am unsure of when she last saw them. Her eyes just lit up when she spoke of them. There was a guy we met named Ricky. Very animated and just happy with life. Great smile and shining eyes. Telling us about how important God is to him, he readily accepted the opportunity for someone to pray for him. I also met a gentleman by the name of Larry. He looked so familiar to me. He lost his job about 3 months ago. First time he has ever been homeless. He has no family at all. NONE. We talked for a really long time. He cried some, we prayed some, we laughed some.... He has some heart issues and has not been able to afford his medications. He asked specifically for prayer for his health and finding a new job. Also met a man named Danny. Real nice guy, jokester. Caring and watchful. On a list to get "inside" as well. I believe he is 4th on the list??
One of the most hurtful things that happens to these people is that they get treated like no one. Like they are no one at all. From what I heard and observed, that bothers them more than being homeless. They just want to be acknowledged. They want a smile, a hello, a nod.
One of the gentleman, that wasn't real sure that we were just Christian people there to do good for no reason other than that we cared....... he was telling me how some of the homeless are drunk every night, pan-handling constantly, sleeping on the sidewalk, peeing on the walls.... He said that they give the rest of the homeless a bad name. That really hit home with me. I told him, "sounds like some Christians I know. They give us all a bad name by being hypocrites, and mean, and uncaring" I told him, you can't judge all of them by the few that have offended you either. He just smiled at me and nodded his head. He said, "your right" and he kept on smiling.
It was a blessed night.
We had 28 people with us on this journey, and not one of them were not used by God to touch another soul. Thank God that Patti's church heard the call. There were many out there under the bridges, and in the lot. From what I understand, the numbers were actually down at the lot that evening.
oh yeah, the lot!! We also went to a "feeding lot" right behind Lucas Oil Stadium.
WOW, there is a ministry called Manna Ministries of Indianapolis, the website is http://www.mannaministriesofindy.org/ GO the the site and DONATE to them!! They are awesome!! This is just a private family that has a great desire to serve God by reaching out to those less fortunate. They have a bus they drive and every single Thursday come rain or shine, at 7:00 p.m. they serve dinner to however many come to the parking lot they set up in. Inside the bus they have socks, hats, gloves, hygiene products, coats, clothing, you name it. Each person that arrives at the lot gets a number. After a short message, each person takes his number up to the food line and gets a meal served to them. Then one by one they call out the numbers and that person gets to go and get on the bus. They have prayer and tell what they need for that week. Then it is given to them as they are able. It is amazing! They so have their heart in the right place. I cannot encourage you enough to go and donate to this family. I am unsure of how they fund the food, or anything else. They have built a relationship with these homeless people and it is inspiring.
so yeah, I went with my cousin Patti last night to an outreach she helped to put together for the homeless. This is something very near and dear to her. She was homeless herself. She was only a small child........alone....in the cold........ on the streets of Indianapolis. Some people have things like this happen in their lives, and they only complain about it. Or perhaps they get out of a situation and then they never look back. NOT Patti, she goes to action and does something to make it better. She is living her life to serve her Lord and his creation to the best of her ability. She is inspiring and uplifting to be around. I greatly appreciate her willingness to serve so freely.
oh I could go on and on and on....... the visions will be forever in my mind. I certainly plan to make this a part of my own outreach. I pray that you might join me. God Bless!! Don't forget to go and donate, you wil lbe blessed and so will they!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
How to Help?
I think about the song saying that Christians will be known by their love... I think about the bible asking which person was the good Samaritan?
I see people out on the street and I am unsure sometimes if or how to help them. I want to be known for my love, but sometimes I don't know if I am helping or enabling. Should I even worry about that? If I mean it for good, but they use it for bad... is it my responsibility?
I have seen a person stand at an intersection and then later watched the same person walk to a car and put his sleeping bag and bags inside of it and take off. Am I being suckered? Should I go ahead and help anyway? I have been told to not give money, but instead give certificates, or useful items. I was told a story of someone that gave money and then the person that it was given to went and bought drugs and relapsed. I don't know what to do. I don't want to ignore, I can't ignore. How do I help? Once I tired to give money to a man, and he was very offended by it and refused to take it. Other times I have given a gift card to a fast food place and been greatly blessed by the person for giving it to them.
Suggestions? Some may not use what is given to them in a manner that is worthy, but does that mean I should help no one? Isn't that for God to decide?
I see people out on the street and I am unsure sometimes if or how to help them. I want to be known for my love, but sometimes I don't know if I am helping or enabling. Should I even worry about that? If I mean it for good, but they use it for bad... is it my responsibility?
I have seen a person stand at an intersection and then later watched the same person walk to a car and put his sleeping bag and bags inside of it and take off. Am I being suckered? Should I go ahead and help anyway? I have been told to not give money, but instead give certificates, or useful items. I was told a story of someone that gave money and then the person that it was given to went and bought drugs and relapsed. I don't know what to do. I don't want to ignore, I can't ignore. How do I help? Once I tired to give money to a man, and he was very offended by it and refused to take it. Other times I have given a gift card to a fast food place and been greatly blessed by the person for giving it to them.
Suggestions? Some may not use what is given to them in a manner that is worthy, but does that mean I should help no one? Isn't that for God to decide?
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
What would happen?
I wonder what our world or even our town or even our church would be like...........if.......... we all did seriously ask the question, "What would Jesus do?" In every situation. Every decision. Every choice. Every everything. What if we disciplined ourselves to that degree?
What if we each prayed every single morning for a minimum of 15 minutes? What if we truly summoned God to be in control. Gave him our burdens, our worries, our fears?
What if we did ask for protection of our minds, our hearts, our mouths? What if we everyday prior to going out asked to be clothed in Christ?
What if we quit putting ourselves first and instead put ourselves last? What if we all lived how Jesus instructed us to live... what would the world be like today?
Each of us can start this right now. It only takes one person to begin a revolution.
What if we each prayed every single morning for a minimum of 15 minutes? What if we truly summoned God to be in control. Gave him our burdens, our worries, our fears?
What if we did ask for protection of our minds, our hearts, our mouths? What if we everyday prior to going out asked to be clothed in Christ?
What if we quit putting ourselves first and instead put ourselves last? What if we all lived how Jesus instructed us to live... what would the world be like today?
Each of us can start this right now. It only takes one person to begin a revolution.
Monday, September 14, 2009
My spiritual gift
My Spiritual Gift PER:
http://www.upperroom.org/methodx/thelife/test.asp
go try it
You are a Lover, a feeling type, whose spirituality comes primarily from the heart or emotions. You value freedom, independence, and spontaneity. Along with your gift of enthusiasm, you show us how to have fun and appreciate beauty. More than any other type, you know how to experience joy. This puts you in a unique position to experience God in the moment, to revel in what is happening around you, and to be in the present tense.
To Lovers, God is a nurturing parent. Prayer for you is often extemporaneous, speaking to God about what is on your heart at the moment. Music moves you deeply; so does heartfelt preaching and worship. You believe that real faith must be shared. Consequently, many Lovers are interested in missions or in spreading the Gospel through the media. You are passionate about holy living.
On the other hand, a Lover's impulsive behavior can get you in trouble. You sometimes focus on satisfying immediate desires to the detriment of investing in longer term needs. You have been known to exude a "holier-than-thou" attitude toward other spiritual types. That does not endear you to us. Guard against thinking that to be right everyone else must share a spiritual experience similar to yours. You also may need permission to acknowledge anger, disappointment, sadness, and doubt, and to allow yourself to be less than ideal
PRAYING THE LOVER WAY
Read John 3:16.
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. - John 3:16 (NRSV)
List several people you love and those you have difficulty loving. Read the verse slowly for each person on your list, personalizing this verse as an expression of God's love for him or her: "For God so loved (name) that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life." Include yourself. Pause to add your prayer for each person and to pray for what you need in order to love that person. Notice any changes in you as you affirm God's love for the person. Decide how you are going to express God's love and your love to the people on your list.
http://www.upperroom.org/methodx/thelife/test.asp
go try it
You are a Lover, a feeling type, whose spirituality comes primarily from the heart or emotions. You value freedom, independence, and spontaneity. Along with your gift of enthusiasm, you show us how to have fun and appreciate beauty. More than any other type, you know how to experience joy. This puts you in a unique position to experience God in the moment, to revel in what is happening around you, and to be in the present tense.
To Lovers, God is a nurturing parent. Prayer for you is often extemporaneous, speaking to God about what is on your heart at the moment. Music moves you deeply; so does heartfelt preaching and worship. You believe that real faith must be shared. Consequently, many Lovers are interested in missions or in spreading the Gospel through the media. You are passionate about holy living.
On the other hand, a Lover's impulsive behavior can get you in trouble. You sometimes focus on satisfying immediate desires to the detriment of investing in longer term needs. You have been known to exude a "holier-than-thou" attitude toward other spiritual types. That does not endear you to us. Guard against thinking that to be right everyone else must share a spiritual experience similar to yours. You also may need permission to acknowledge anger, disappointment, sadness, and doubt, and to allow yourself to be less than ideal
PRAYING THE LOVER WAY
Read John 3:16.
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. - John 3:16 (NRSV)
List several people you love and those you have difficulty loving. Read the verse slowly for each person on your list, personalizing this verse as an expression of God's love for him or her: "For God so loved (name) that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life." Include yourself. Pause to add your prayer for each person and to pray for what you need in order to love that person. Notice any changes in you as you affirm God's love for the person. Decide how you are going to express God's love and your love to the people on your list.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
whoops
Once again, I let my attention to this blog go by the wayside....
We have begun a new Sunday School series, well more than a series. Basically, a whole new Sunday School for our entire church! So far it has been really cool. The focus is on Christian Worldview. It has been such an eye opener for me. It is amazing our desensitized we have come to so many things, that even as a Christian we just tolerate what is put in front of us without another thought.
I don't want to be like that anymore. I #1 want to be loving and kind, and #2 want to stand up for what is true. NO more what makes me/us feel good. Feelings get you no where. Feelings cannot be relied upon. Feelings don't save your soul. I want to have what I do and say be based upon truth and facts and evidence.
Looking forward to digging into this and sharing with others.
Standing on the promises of God.
We have begun a new Sunday School series, well more than a series. Basically, a whole new Sunday School for our entire church! So far it has been really cool. The focus is on Christian Worldview. It has been such an eye opener for me. It is amazing our desensitized we have come to so many things, that even as a Christian we just tolerate what is put in front of us without another thought.
I don't want to be like that anymore. I #1 want to be loving and kind, and #2 want to stand up for what is true. NO more what makes me/us feel good. Feelings get you no where. Feelings cannot be relied upon. Feelings don't save your soul. I want to have what I do and say be based upon truth and facts and evidence.
Looking forward to digging into this and sharing with others.
Standing on the promises of God.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Devotional
This was posted on another webstie by Beverly Dillard. I love it, so sharing with you.
“Keep your mind on Jesus [and] . . .you won’t get discouraged and give up.” Hebrews 12:3
this was the devotion I received this morning...
It’s difficult to endure hardship at the best of times, but when you don’t know why, it can be frustrating. God doesn’t give us lengthy explanations on how He works; He’s used to creating worlds with a single sentence. So when you don’t find an immediate answer in His Word or through prayer or the counsel of others, you’re left wondering. And you wouldn’t be the first. David repeatedly asks why in the Psalms, and God still called him “a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” So don’t get discouraged. Bible commentator William Barclay pointed out that endurance isn’t just the ability to bear a hard thing, but to use it for your growth and God’s glory.When the answers aren’t forthcoming the question then becomes, “How do I get through this?” And the Bible addresses it by telling us Jesus endured “the shame of being nailed to a cross, because he knew . . . .later on he would be glad.” Then it goes on to say: “Keep your mind on Jesus . . .you won’t get discouraged and give up.” The reason Jesus endured was because He was able to look ahead and envision the joy of pleasing His Father, building the church and saving a lost world.
The Psalmist said, “I have set the Lord always before me . . . he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved” [discouraged, or thrown by the situation]. Staying-power is not denying reality, or white-knuckling it. It’s keeping your eyes on Jesus and drawing from Him the strength you need to fight your way through to victory!
“Keep your mind on Jesus [and] . . .you won’t get discouraged and give up.” Hebrews 12:3
this was the devotion I received this morning...
It’s difficult to endure hardship at the best of times, but when you don’t know why, it can be frustrating. God doesn’t give us lengthy explanations on how He works; He’s used to creating worlds with a single sentence. So when you don’t find an immediate answer in His Word or through prayer or the counsel of others, you’re left wondering. And you wouldn’t be the first. David repeatedly asks why in the Psalms, and God still called him “a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” So don’t get discouraged. Bible commentator William Barclay pointed out that endurance isn’t just the ability to bear a hard thing, but to use it for your growth and God’s glory.When the answers aren’t forthcoming the question then becomes, “How do I get through this?” And the Bible addresses it by telling us Jesus endured “the shame of being nailed to a cross, because he knew . . . .later on he would be glad.” Then it goes on to say: “Keep your mind on Jesus . . .you won’t get discouraged and give up.” The reason Jesus endured was because He was able to look ahead and envision the joy of pleasing His Father, building the church and saving a lost world.
The Psalmist said, “I have set the Lord always before me . . . he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved” [discouraged, or thrown by the situation]. Staying-power is not denying reality, or white-knuckling it. It’s keeping your eyes on Jesus and drawing from Him the strength you need to fight your way through to victory!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
wow
I just read this article release on the Dept of Defense website. I find it hard to fathom that this is just ok, and part of everyday reporting. I had no idea that the suicide rate was so high among the active duty. Not only that but everyday they list they people who have died while on active duty, there are alot of combat related deaths as well. Let's all take a little bit today to pray for those who are serving us, and doing it under horrible conditions. God Bless!
Article from the Dept of Defense:
The Army released suicide data for the month of July today. Among active-duty soldiers there were eight potential suicides in July. In June, the Army reported no confirmed suicides and nine potential suicides among active-duty soldiers. Since the June report, four of the nine potential suicides have been confirmed and five remain under investigation.
There have been 96 reported active-duty Army suicides during the period Jan. 1, 2009 – July 31, 2009. Of these, 62 have been confirmed, and 34 are pending determination of manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 79 suicides among active-duty soldiers.
During July 2009, among reserve component soldiers not on active duty, there were four potential suicides. During the period Jan. 1, 2009 – July 31, 2009, among that same group, there have been 17 confirmed suicides and 28 potential suicides; the potential suicides are currently under investigation to determine the manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 32 suicides among reserve soldiers not on active duty.
The Army’s Suicide Prevention Task Force has implemented a number of improvements to the Army’s health promotion, risk reduction and suicide prevention programs in recent weeks. These include completion of major revisions to Army health promotion policy and augmenting behavioral health staffs at many installations to enhance access to counseling services for soldiers and families.
“It’s not that the Army lacks programs to confront the problem of suicide,” said Brig. Gen. Colleen McGuire, director, Army Suicide Prevention Task Force. “The long-term challenge is determining which programs are most effective for our soldiers and ensuring Army leaders, from junior non-commissioned officers to the most senior leaders, know how to help their soldiers take advantage of these programs.”
Article from the Dept of Defense:
The Army released suicide data for the month of July today. Among active-duty soldiers there were eight potential suicides in July. In June, the Army reported no confirmed suicides and nine potential suicides among active-duty soldiers. Since the June report, four of the nine potential suicides have been confirmed and five remain under investigation.
There have been 96 reported active-duty Army suicides during the period Jan. 1, 2009 – July 31, 2009. Of these, 62 have been confirmed, and 34 are pending determination of manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 79 suicides among active-duty soldiers.
During July 2009, among reserve component soldiers not on active duty, there were four potential suicides. During the period Jan. 1, 2009 – July 31, 2009, among that same group, there have been 17 confirmed suicides and 28 potential suicides; the potential suicides are currently under investigation to determine the manner of death. For the same period in 2008, there were 32 suicides among reserve soldiers not on active duty.
The Army’s Suicide Prevention Task Force has implemented a number of improvements to the Army’s health promotion, risk reduction and suicide prevention programs in recent weeks. These include completion of major revisions to Army health promotion policy and augmenting behavioral health staffs at many installations to enhance access to counseling services for soldiers and families.
“It’s not that the Army lacks programs to confront the problem of suicide,” said Brig. Gen. Colleen McGuire, director, Army Suicide Prevention Task Force. “The long-term challenge is determining which programs are most effective for our soldiers and ensuring Army leaders, from junior non-commissioned officers to the most senior leaders, know how to help their soldiers take advantage of these programs.”
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
In the light
I have had time to absorb God's word over the last couple of weeks. It has been pleasant.
Sometimes we get so caught up, we just throw a few minutes here and there..but don't truly take the time to read, study, and absorb His word. It is sorta funny to me sometimes how I might have read something many many times over a vast number of years, and then BOOM. I understand what it says. God's word has this effect on me. I know that His word never changes...so it must be me!
I am so thankful that God has given that opportunity, to change. Not everyone allows it. Some people hold onto things that have happened, words said, wrong actions taken....... and they just keep on holding on. They can't see past the incident, and everything just stops for them there. I have been guilty of it myself. There was a person that I was like this with for years. YEARS, even after becoming a Christian. I heard her name and would cringe. The thought of her just made my blood get hot. It is so crazy. She has no idea the amount of time I have spent allowing a particular event to define her for me. She has no idea, and I seriously doubt that she cares at all. I however, kept it alive and updated. Refreshing my mind with continual bad thoughts and hurt feelings.
I can only imagine how horrible my life would be right now, if God were like that to me. If He never gave me another chance. If He didn't care to give me the opportunity to change. If He didn't even try to move past my failures, my sins.We should be following the example that was given us. We cannot be the same person we once were. We cannot assume other people are the same as they once were. It is like the Bible talks about in 1st John, the outside of the cup being clean, but the inside never touched. God looks to the inside, He looks to the heart. He knows your heart.
Do you need to give someone another chance? Do you maybe need to not give another chance, but let go of the hurt and anger and pain it caused you? Do it. Don't allow someone else to steal your JOY in Christ. You can't be in the dark and in the light.
Sometimes we get so caught up, we just throw a few minutes here and there..but don't truly take the time to read, study, and absorb His word. It is sorta funny to me sometimes how I might have read something many many times over a vast number of years, and then BOOM. I understand what it says. God's word has this effect on me. I know that His word never changes...so it must be me!
I am so thankful that God has given that opportunity, to change. Not everyone allows it. Some people hold onto things that have happened, words said, wrong actions taken....... and they just keep on holding on. They can't see past the incident, and everything just stops for them there. I have been guilty of it myself. There was a person that I was like this with for years. YEARS, even after becoming a Christian. I heard her name and would cringe. The thought of her just made my blood get hot. It is so crazy. She has no idea the amount of time I have spent allowing a particular event to define her for me. She has no idea, and I seriously doubt that she cares at all. I however, kept it alive and updated. Refreshing my mind with continual bad thoughts and hurt feelings.
I can only imagine how horrible my life would be right now, if God were like that to me. If He never gave me another chance. If He didn't care to give me the opportunity to change. If He didn't even try to move past my failures, my sins.We should be following the example that was given us. We cannot be the same person we once were. We cannot assume other people are the same as they once were. It is like the Bible talks about in 1st John, the outside of the cup being clean, but the inside never touched. God looks to the inside, He looks to the heart. He knows your heart.
Do you need to give someone another chance? Do you maybe need to not give another chance, but let go of the hurt and anger and pain it caused you? Do it. Don't allow someone else to steal your JOY in Christ. You can't be in the dark and in the light.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Happy Birthday Care Bear!
Tomorrow is my daughter's birthday. It makes me smile and it makes me sad. More than likely I will not be able to talk to her..that is the part that makes me sad!! :-( Also, I have no address for her, so I have not been able to send her any greeting either. I will certainly be thinking of her, and missing her.
She is living on a "farm" in California right now. She travels around quite a bit. This summer she started out in Colorado at a place called Zephyros Farm. She has worked there for the past 3 or4 years. Then she decided to go on a road trip, a motorcycle road trip, with a friend of hers. They began in Arizona and in a roundabout way made their back to Indiana. Then she was off again...back out to Colorado. From there she decided to go to California and then travel (she has no car, so her thumb was her transport) up the west coast. She conquered that, and ended up going back to California to work on this farm. (apparently the farm does not have a name) I am not even sure what city it is in. I just know that it is off the beaten track, and there is not cell phone reception and she has to get a PO box for mail, which she has not done.
I love her so much, and it is so hard to just let her go... I cannot fathom what it was like for God to release his precious son to this world. He was safely with him, and yet for the good of others..God let loose and allowed him to go into a world that was full of sin.... danger, hurting, killing-- So many seem to think this was just a piece of cake, He is God. It didn't affect him to let his son go. He knew that everything would be alright, so it wasn't hard for him. WRONG, what God knew was that in order to give the world an opportunity to redeem itself~ that God had to give us his perfect son, who was sinless. To allow him to be crucified, so that each one of us may have life everlasting. It was devastating for God to do this. Yet he loved each of us enough to allow himself the pain. His son did not have to follow through, he could have made his own choices. He could have decided to listen to Satan. He could have decided many different things. He didn't though, he decided to lay down his life for us. FOR US.
Yes, God had a plan, but it wasn't easy for him. Just as it is not easy for me to sit here and go on with my life not having a clue where my daughter is at. Some people ask me how I can just let her go out like that. By the grace of God is how. I know that he has a plan. I know that he loves Carrie as much, no more... than I do. He is allowing her the free choice he allows each of us. At the same time he is comforting me in her absence. I talk to him everyday about her, I ask him to protect her. He assures me he is doing all that he can. He is rooting for her safety and choices just like I am. His heart is breaking for her, just like mine is. He is God. He is all powerful, but he is not all forceful. He is pursuing, but he is not controlling. He has hurt just like I have. He knows my heart and he fills it with peace.
She is living on a "farm" in California right now. She travels around quite a bit. This summer she started out in Colorado at a place called Zephyros Farm. She has worked there for the past 3 or4 years. Then she decided to go on a road trip, a motorcycle road trip, with a friend of hers. They began in Arizona and in a roundabout way made their back to Indiana. Then she was off again...back out to Colorado. From there she decided to go to California and then travel (she has no car, so her thumb was her transport) up the west coast. She conquered that, and ended up going back to California to work on this farm. (apparently the farm does not have a name) I am not even sure what city it is in. I just know that it is off the beaten track, and there is not cell phone reception and she has to get a PO box for mail, which she has not done.
I love her so much, and it is so hard to just let her go... I cannot fathom what it was like for God to release his precious son to this world. He was safely with him, and yet for the good of others..God let loose and allowed him to go into a world that was full of sin.... danger, hurting, killing-- So many seem to think this was just a piece of cake, He is God. It didn't affect him to let his son go. He knew that everything would be alright, so it wasn't hard for him. WRONG, what God knew was that in order to give the world an opportunity to redeem itself~ that God had to give us his perfect son, who was sinless. To allow him to be crucified, so that each one of us may have life everlasting. It was devastating for God to do this. Yet he loved each of us enough to allow himself the pain. His son did not have to follow through, he could have made his own choices. He could have decided to listen to Satan. He could have decided many different things. He didn't though, he decided to lay down his life for us. FOR US.
Yes, God had a plan, but it wasn't easy for him. Just as it is not easy for me to sit here and go on with my life not having a clue where my daughter is at. Some people ask me how I can just let her go out like that. By the grace of God is how. I know that he has a plan. I know that he loves Carrie as much, no more... than I do. He is allowing her the free choice he allows each of us. At the same time he is comforting me in her absence. I talk to him everyday about her, I ask him to protect her. He assures me he is doing all that he can. He is rooting for her safety and choices just like I am. His heart is breaking for her, just like mine is. He is God. He is all powerful, but he is not all forceful. He is pursuing, but he is not controlling. He has hurt just like I have. He knows my heart and he fills it with peace.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Here comes Sunday!
Sunday~ I love Sunday because I love going to church! We were talking last week at our woman's bible study about sacrifice. Our study prompted us to reflect and discuss the sacrifices we make as a Christian. I was blank.
Then I sort of had to laugh inside, four or five years ago... I could have given you an unending list of sacrifices I would need to make to be a Christian. Actually I already considered myself a Christian, so I guess they would have been sacrifices made to attend church. Even getting up early would have been a huge sacrifice for me.
The amazing thing is, none of these things even matter anymore. The "sacrifices" are things I want to do, I desire to do. It is so true that allowing God into your life, establishing a personal relationship...changes your heart, your mind, your thoughts. It does not even take effort for the change. I never understood this before. I can't explain it now. It all has to do with GRACE.
I am not doing anything different in my life due to requirements... I am doing things different in my life due to a changed heart, changed desires. Then to top it all off, my life is so full of joy and peace and love~ more than it ever has been. It is like once I quit trying to find all of that on my own, it was just handed me to me. It is funny to me now, I seriously laugh out loud....
Then I sort of had to laugh inside, four or five years ago... I could have given you an unending list of sacrifices I would need to make to be a Christian. Actually I already considered myself a Christian, so I guess they would have been sacrifices made to attend church. Even getting up early would have been a huge sacrifice for me.
The amazing thing is, none of these things even matter anymore. The "sacrifices" are things I want to do, I desire to do. It is so true that allowing God into your life, establishing a personal relationship...changes your heart, your mind, your thoughts. It does not even take effort for the change. I never understood this before. I can't explain it now. It all has to do with GRACE.
I am not doing anything different in my life due to requirements... I am doing things different in my life due to a changed heart, changed desires. Then to top it all off, my life is so full of joy and peace and love~ more than it ever has been. It is like once I quit trying to find all of that on my own, it was just handed me to me. It is funny to me now, I seriously laugh out loud....
Monday, August 10, 2009
Sunday, August 09, 2009
10/11/06 regular journal
Yesterday was pretty good. A few snags at work with a co-worker, but overall good! I got home from work a little after 5 and Billy was here with Greg. It is always refreshing to talk with Billy. We went and ate at MickyD's and then went to bible study group. I am beginning to feel more comfortable with my gorup. It is cool that we are all on the same page with wanting to have a relationship with God and his son. It is neat how my heart is changing and the peace that is over my life. Last night, I asked for prayer for help to quit smoking. We prayed as a group..Greg prayed specifically for me and I FELT lifted up. We came home, I read for a bit then went to bed about 10:00. Sometimes it is scary to make yourself vulnerable to people. You never know how they will percieve what you say or what type of person you are because of what you confess to. I am coming to realize and understand more and more how much that does not matter. What matters is what God thinks. What matters is your heart and your motives. If people don't like me or think less of me for smoking, I feel sorry for them, that they didn't give me a chance. I pray that they see past the superfical me to the real me. I also thank God that he is teaching me to look on the inside where the real beauty lies. God sees all, it does not matter what anyone else thinks. Another day to begin today!
Monday, August 03, 2009
Sunday, August 02, 2009
August 1,2009 Creation Museum
Yesterday we went to the Creation Museum with Bill and Teresa. It was VERY crowded. It was exciting though to see how many people wanted to spend their weekend learning more about God's word. There were a huge variety of people and that made it even cooler.
LOTS of exhibits. The surroundings of each exhibit were so life-like that sometimes you had to really think about if it was real or fake. There was a lot of information. For the amount of people that were there and the amount of information, it was a little bit overwhelming to absorb everything as we followed the crowds through. I did learn several interesting things that were new to me. I loved having science and religion on such a united front. I also felt amazed at how much faith it must take to not believe that there is a God. They made some very good points about that. Another of the things that I really appreciated was having the facts presented to me on both fronts.
I would highly recommend going, but not on a weekend if you can help it. Or, if you go on the weekend.. have an early lunch prior to going and then arrive around noon. You'll miss the craziness of eating there and I think miss alot of the crowds in the exhibits. I would also suggest going to their website and getting a listing of shows that are playing and special exhibits..so you can plan your day accordingly. The lines to see the shows/videos were pretty long waits. Average wait time was about 30 minutes sometimes longer. I am sure this had some to do with it being on the weekend.
LOTS of exhibits. The surroundings of each exhibit were so life-like that sometimes you had to really think about if it was real or fake. There was a lot of information. For the amount of people that were there and the amount of information, it was a little bit overwhelming to absorb everything as we followed the crowds through. I did learn several interesting things that were new to me. I loved having science and religion on such a united front. I also felt amazed at how much faith it must take to not believe that there is a God. They made some very good points about that. Another of the things that I really appreciated was having the facts presented to me on both fronts.
I would highly recommend going, but not on a weekend if you can help it. Or, if you go on the weekend.. have an early lunch prior to going and then arrive around noon. You'll miss the craziness of eating there and I think miss alot of the crowds in the exhibits. I would also suggest going to their website and getting a listing of shows that are playing and special exhibits..so you can plan your day accordingly. The lines to see the shows/videos were pretty long waits. Average wait time was about 30 minutes sometimes longer. I am sure this had some to do with it being on the weekend.
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