I tuned into a program titled "David Jeremiah" yesterday. It is in one of those amazing ways that God works in your life that I happened to see the program. Multiple things had to fall into place correctly for it to happen. I took some notes on his sermon, and want to share them with you guys. If any of you are struggling in your workplace, tired of your job, or fed up with co-workers.... I think this will speak to you.
notes from Living a Life of Productivity by David Jeremiah, aired Dec 30, 2007 Eph 6 : 5-8, 2 Chronicles 15:7, Luke 10:7
As a Christian, you must be willing to accept in faith the job you have as the will of God. You must look at it in those eyes. God has given you all of your skills, and has put us where we are at an given time-- for that task--for a reason. For that reason alone you should be doing your "job" with all of your heart.
Instead of complaining about your job and grumbling about your co-workers, you should be thanking God that He has blessed you with a job. Unemployment is high, people are suffering..YOU are blessed to have provisions.
The job you do is as important as any job. It does matter where it falls on the pay scale or ton the social scale. It is directed by Him, and you are representing Him in it. Do your job as a gift to God. Your job is God's gift to you~ what you do with it is your gift to God. If things are so bad that you cannot represent God in a pleasing way in your workplace, talk to Him and see if it is where He wants you to be.
You do not work for the boss of your company, for any supervisor, or manager. You work for God. He is watching how you carry out these duties day by day. When you are there just putting in time, it will make your day twice as long. If you are doing it for the glory of God, it will make it the shortest day ever!
We, as Christans, should not be caught up in others work ethics or work habits. No matter what they may be... They should be concerned with their own representation, and shining that light onto others. We cannot just say what the word says, we must DO it. In doing so we can lead others to the same life. If we don't show this, what are we giving them to desire of what we have? You should have integrity regardless of the circumstances. People should see a difference in you and not have to KNOW you are a Christian, but by your actions, you should stand out. Spiritual rewards are much more valuable that any paycheck you will ever receive.
Your attitude at work, and towards work is your attitude to God.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
GOALS
So, How many of you have set goals for this new year? I set a goal last year, that I am going to continue to work on this year, as I am far from reaching it.
I have other goals as well. This one particular goal that I set though, is being authentically Christian... It still escapes me at times. I find myself getting so close to God, and being as I should...and then~ I fall back down again. When I look at my life compared to a year ago, it is much more in line with God's desire. I know that I can never each perfection, but I should be able to be authentic in all situations..no matter what!
The other day at work, I was not too authentically Christian. I was very authentically human though.
I allow myself to be pulled into such pettiness. I want to rise above it, and many times I can. There are times though that I fall right down to their level. I have been focusing alot on the book of Jude this past week. I believe that God gave it to me at this time to remind me that though there are grumblers, and those who stir up trouble and cause divisions.... We have to have mercy but show caution when we are around these people. We cannot allow ourselves to get sucked in. I have been doing just that.... allowing myself to be sucked in. I say allowing, because even though it is human nature, at some point my spiritual nature has got to be given control of my human nature. Instead, I determine when/what is going to guide me. This has to stop, and in all situations I have to get my guidance from God.
A friend of mine jokingly told me to just be sure to ask forgiveness later. Another friend then said, " As Paul said in Corinthians... so do you just going on sinning...." Immediately the Holy Spirit convicted me of what I was doing..what I was saying. I did ask forgiveness, and I am sure that God will forgive me as well as deal with me accordingly for the childishness. He will also expect me to repent and learn from the situation.
Second Corinthians 4:8-9 says: "We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;"
Jesus said in John 15:18-19: "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you."
I read this earlier today; "The enemy will put pressure on you when you attempt to reach your goal. But you can handle it. Jesus did. You are in good company. In fact, you are running with the best. He has already warned you. If they persecuted Him they will persecute you."
So yeah, I am keeping that goal... it is a "roll -over" goal, that I intend (through the power of the God) to have even more control over next year.
Situations may arise in which you are unable to figure out what to do. We all have encountered this at one time or another in our lives. When you are walking in the Word and by the Holy Spirit you have divine, inside information to meet your goal. If you are steadfast, standing through the persecution, deliverance is at hand. You can obtain your goals.
I have other goals as well. This one particular goal that I set though, is being authentically Christian... It still escapes me at times. I find myself getting so close to God, and being as I should...and then~ I fall back down again. When I look at my life compared to a year ago, it is much more in line with God's desire. I know that I can never each perfection, but I should be able to be authentic in all situations..no matter what!
The other day at work, I was not too authentically Christian. I was very authentically human though.
I allow myself to be pulled into such pettiness. I want to rise above it, and many times I can. There are times though that I fall right down to their level. I have been focusing alot on the book of Jude this past week. I believe that God gave it to me at this time to remind me that though there are grumblers, and those who stir up trouble and cause divisions.... We have to have mercy but show caution when we are around these people. We cannot allow ourselves to get sucked in. I have been doing just that.... allowing myself to be sucked in. I say allowing, because even though it is human nature, at some point my spiritual nature has got to be given control of my human nature. Instead, I determine when/what is going to guide me. This has to stop, and in all situations I have to get my guidance from God.
A friend of mine jokingly told me to just be sure to ask forgiveness later. Another friend then said, " As Paul said in Corinthians... so do you just going on sinning...." Immediately the Holy Spirit convicted me of what I was doing..what I was saying. I did ask forgiveness, and I am sure that God will forgive me as well as deal with me accordingly for the childishness. He will also expect me to repent and learn from the situation.
Second Corinthians 4:8-9 says: "We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;"
Jesus said in John 15:18-19: "If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you."
I read this earlier today; "The enemy will put pressure on you when you attempt to reach your goal. But you can handle it. Jesus did. You are in good company. In fact, you are running with the best. He has already warned you. If they persecuted Him they will persecute you."
So yeah, I am keeping that goal... it is a "roll -over" goal, that I intend (through the power of the God) to have even more control over next year.
Situations may arise in which you are unable to figure out what to do. We all have encountered this at one time or another in our lives. When you are walking in the Word and by the Holy Spirit you have divine, inside information to meet your goal. If you are steadfast, standing through the persecution, deliverance is at hand. You can obtain your goals.
Monday, December 24, 2007
No Greater Love
Merry Christmas!
May we all take a moment to reflect and rejoice on what we are celebrating. May we never forget the sacrifices made on our behalf to have the freedom to celebrate... and never forget the unending love our heavenly Father has for us, that He would sacrifice His Son for the love of us. He came so that we might come to Him. It wasn't required, it wasn't demanded, it was done out of love. It is totally our choice, our own free choice to accept the gift He gave.
If you feel hesitant, or unsure of what it all means, call me! Email me, leave me a random comment. I may not know the answers, but promise to help you find them. I just have to ask you, what have got to lose by giving Christ a chance? He will accept anyone, anywhere, anytime. No one has a greater love for you than God!
May we all take a moment to reflect and rejoice on what we are celebrating. May we never forget the sacrifices made on our behalf to have the freedom to celebrate... and never forget the unending love our heavenly Father has for us, that He would sacrifice His Son for the love of us. He came so that we might come to Him. It wasn't required, it wasn't demanded, it was done out of love. It is totally our choice, our own free choice to accept the gift He gave.
If you feel hesitant, or unsure of what it all means, call me! Email me, leave me a random comment. I may not know the answers, but promise to help you find them. I just have to ask you, what have got to lose by giving Christ a chance? He will accept anyone, anywhere, anytime. No one has a greater love for you than God!
Grab the Hand of God
When life is unfair, we HAVE to remember that God is available! But we have to ask, and then act accordingly. I was reading a book today that explains that life is unfair sometimes... BUT, God gave us particular scriptures to forge through those times and look onward. He also has never requested that we go it alone. The key is relying on His strength and His promises. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that God has plans to prosper us, not to harm us... He has plans to give us a hope and a future.
The plans God has for us cannot be thwarted by anything. Be willing to open your heart, to listen... to stand back and look at the situation. Then, grab God's hand and take Him up on His offer to help you!
The plans God has for us cannot be thwarted by anything. Be willing to open your heart, to listen... to stand back and look at the situation. Then, grab God's hand and take Him up on His offer to help you!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The Book of God
You know, I was thinking today just how fortunate I am! It seems easy to sometimes see all these things whirling around flying by us so fast we feel we cannot keep up! You know what though? God is in control. I was listening to a song today, I can't recall the artist... but the song repeats over and over, "What a Faithful God have I...What a faithful God!" I LOVE that song!! It so inspires me and just makes me raise my hands to the heavens!! We do have a faithful God. For years upon years, He has been faithful and true. He wants what is best for us and has been guiding us to it since the beginning. The sad thing is, we as a nation....never seem to learn!
My husband and I have been reading a book called The Book of God, it is a novel of the Bible. It is awesome. I have learned so much....just having it in a format that I could understand better and keep track of has been great. ( It could never replace reading your Bible, mind you) I was a little nervous at first, as I do not want to be reading anything that is someones version of the Bible. This is not in that category!! We have been reading it when we are in the car or going to bed at night, whenever we can.... It has been just been a nice thing to do together.
But anyway.... So far we have read about the promise God made Abraham and Sara.... About Issac and Esau and Jacob. Jacob's long journey for a wife. We have read about Jacob's son, Joseph and the drought. We have read about Moses and the plagues, and the journey out of Egypt. We have read how the battles have been fought and how wonderfully God has been with them in winning the battles and winning the land. We have read about what happens when you disobey God, and what happens when you obey. It has been terrific!
In each chapter it begins by talking about the things that are going on and how the people have forgotten how God delivered them, the things they have endured with Him and how He has led them and taken care of them. They forget all of this and then it seems nothing is going right at all, so THEN they call on God. I have just been amazed at how much in all of these years, how humans have stayed so much the same! We know the rules, we know what happens when we obey and when we don't. We know what wonders God is capable of, and yet we try to control it all. It seems like after all these thousands and thousands of years, we would have learned how it all works. But NO, we haven't learned it yet. It is amazing and sad at the same time.
I wish so bad that Greg and I had a week off together that we could read and read this book! By the way, It is written by Walter Wangerin, Jr. He lives here in Indiana.
The following is by Philip Yancey ( if you can't trust Philip, who can you trust?) "Walter Wangering has accomplished a feat of imagination and faith. What a modern paraphrase does for the words, sentences, and paragraphs of the Bible, Wangerin does for its underlying narrative. He does not analyze, or commentate~ he renders. It is told with exciting detail and passionate energy... low comedy, high drama, gentle humor and awesome holiness.... imaginative and yet meticulously researched.
My husband and I have been reading a book called The Book of God, it is a novel of the Bible. It is awesome. I have learned so much....just having it in a format that I could understand better and keep track of has been great. ( It could never replace reading your Bible, mind you) I was a little nervous at first, as I do not want to be reading anything that is someones version of the Bible. This is not in that category!! We have been reading it when we are in the car or going to bed at night, whenever we can.... It has been just been a nice thing to do together.
But anyway.... So far we have read about the promise God made Abraham and Sara.... About Issac and Esau and Jacob. Jacob's long journey for a wife. We have read about Jacob's son, Joseph and the drought. We have read about Moses and the plagues, and the journey out of Egypt. We have read how the battles have been fought and how wonderfully God has been with them in winning the battles and winning the land. We have read about what happens when you disobey God, and what happens when you obey. It has been terrific!
In each chapter it begins by talking about the things that are going on and how the people have forgotten how God delivered them, the things they have endured with Him and how He has led them and taken care of them. They forget all of this and then it seems nothing is going right at all, so THEN they call on God. I have just been amazed at how much in all of these years, how humans have stayed so much the same! We know the rules, we know what happens when we obey and when we don't. We know what wonders God is capable of, and yet we try to control it all. It seems like after all these thousands and thousands of years, we would have learned how it all works. But NO, we haven't learned it yet. It is amazing and sad at the same time.
I wish so bad that Greg and I had a week off together that we could read and read this book! By the way, It is written by Walter Wangerin, Jr. He lives here in Indiana.
The following is by Philip Yancey ( if you can't trust Philip, who can you trust?) "Walter Wangering has accomplished a feat of imagination and faith. What a modern paraphrase does for the words, sentences, and paragraphs of the Bible, Wangerin does for its underlying narrative. He does not analyze, or commentate~ he renders. It is told with exciting detail and passionate energy... low comedy, high drama, gentle humor and awesome holiness.... imaginative and yet meticulously researched.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Sometimes You Have to Turn OFF the Words!
I had to stop reading and come journal in this! I am one of those people who think because it is making a deep connection with me, it will with others as well..... So I must share! This is a mix of notes and memory...so bear with me.
I am reading "Lifestyle Evangelism" by Joe Aldrich. It appears to be written in 1981 (another great second hand store find). I feel like it is speaking to me so clearly! I kept making notes and notes, and more notes.... then I just had to stop and come write.
It is explaining Christ's model of evangelism.... visualization and verbalization of truth. John 1:14 says, "The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
This verse can become our model of evangelism.
purpose: to glorify God;
strategy: to incarnate truth (to become flesh);
methodology: to be full of grace and truth.
It hit me a few minutes ago, It seriously is that simple to evangelize! Outsiders to faith are first drawn to Christians, and then to Christ! You have to be good news, before you can share good news. It is all about walking the talk. It is simply expressing what I possess in Christ by my actions and words. (visualization and verbalization, just like Christ did) It is displaying His love, righteousness, justice, and faithfulness~~ through our everyday life. It is not a special activity... it is constant and spontaneous.
Christ did not just talk about love, He loved. He didn't just preach on forgiveness, He forgave. He didn't just proclaim the necessity of justice and righteousness, he demanded it and exposed it. He lived among them. He was one of us. He was full of truth and grace. Not condemnation and legalistic beliefs, truth and grace.
I am reading this, and thinking...oh my word, I can do this! I certainly need to be working on the grace showing.... How in the world do I plan to lead another to Christ, and yet let my heart be filled with envy, revenge, or anger? What are my actions showing my fellow man?
I have to ask myself...Is this bringing glory to God; incarnating truth; or being full of grace and truth? Remember that Jesus gave us the perfect example to evangelize in John 1:14. You can study this, and should, but you also must be willing to BECOME it.
In his book, the author tells us, " The music of the gospel is the beauty of the indwelling Christ as lived out in everyday relationships in life. When the world observes this, they have heard the music. Sometimes we have to shut off the words and just play the music."
The Hebrew word for truth is emeth. The root verb means to be secure, solid, or firm. Are you representing the gospel in truth?
I am reading "Lifestyle Evangelism" by Joe Aldrich. It appears to be written in 1981 (another great second hand store find). I feel like it is speaking to me so clearly! I kept making notes and notes, and more notes.... then I just had to stop and come write.
It is explaining Christ's model of evangelism.... visualization and verbalization of truth. John 1:14 says, "The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
This verse can become our model of evangelism.
purpose: to glorify God;
strategy: to incarnate truth (to become flesh);
methodology: to be full of grace and truth.
It hit me a few minutes ago, It seriously is that simple to evangelize! Outsiders to faith are first drawn to Christians, and then to Christ! You have to be good news, before you can share good news. It is all about walking the talk. It is simply expressing what I possess in Christ by my actions and words. (visualization and verbalization, just like Christ did) It is displaying His love, righteousness, justice, and faithfulness~~ through our everyday life. It is not a special activity... it is constant and spontaneous.
Christ did not just talk about love, He loved. He didn't just preach on forgiveness, He forgave. He didn't just proclaim the necessity of justice and righteousness, he demanded it and exposed it. He lived among them. He was one of us. He was full of truth and grace. Not condemnation and legalistic beliefs, truth and grace.
I am reading this, and thinking...oh my word, I can do this! I certainly need to be working on the grace showing.... How in the world do I plan to lead another to Christ, and yet let my heart be filled with envy, revenge, or anger? What are my actions showing my fellow man?
I have to ask myself...Is this bringing glory to God; incarnating truth; or being full of grace and truth? Remember that Jesus gave us the perfect example to evangelize in John 1:14. You can study this, and should, but you also must be willing to BECOME it.
In his book, the author tells us, " The music of the gospel is the beauty of the indwelling Christ as lived out in everyday relationships in life. When the world observes this, they have heard the music. Sometimes we have to shut off the words and just play the music."
The Hebrew word for truth is emeth. The root verb means to be secure, solid, or firm. Are you representing the gospel in truth?
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Love....love, one another
I saw this written somewhere to day:
"Our motives and behavior are extremely important to God."
Now this is nothing new to me, it just seems it is jumping out all around me...as I am having some difficulties in that area right now. I am aware of it. I am trying to not let it be.... I think God is just making sure I am aware of it.
I will be honest about it.....People who have bold personalities, are difficult for me to deal with. It is just the way they are, and I know... more than likely they mean nothing by it, so I don't know why I let it stir me up, but I do. I really don't think they mean what they say as hateful or condemning..... It is just a different personality, so it hard for me to understand sometimes. I am sure I again am finding false motives, and allowing those false motives to work their way into my emotions....
I also know that everything in my relationship with Christ is a process...As I become more like Him, these types of things will have less and less impact on me. Until then though, I have got to concentrate on acting in love. If all of my thoughts, words, and actions are guided by the simple commandment of love... I will keep growing each day, and get closer to the goal. Love motivates us to obey, pray, be kind and merciful, forgive, repent, and practice the other aspects of our Christian faith.
God is love. When love is the goal of our lives, God is the goal of our lives.
Imagine what the day would hold if all of us showed love like God shows for us, as we should be doing. What a peaceful day that would be!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
I Know the Plans I Have for You
I was thumbing through my prayer journal, and decided to go back and look at this time last year....see what was in my mind, what I was praying about, and what all God had taken care of~
I sort of had to laugh at one entry.
If you have been reading this blog....you'll know my struggle my patience. Well, on December 5, 2006 there is a reference in my journal, that says, " Please give me the patience I need to have..it is probably the one thing I am worst at-- having patience! I always want it done snap-snap. I have improved in some areas, but in others I have far to go." Yeah, that was a year ago. So, I don't know why, but it made me laugh. It also made me feel bad that in a years time I am still working on the same thing. Then, as I sit here and write, I am thinking...man, had I just gotten the patience a year ago I wouldn't be needing it now.
I think that thought in itself shows my struggle.
I also know that God is certainly hearing me and still working on me in this area~ as I continue to need patience in many situations that arise. I have been told that God will continue to give you certain things in your life until you learn how to handle them correctly.
Last night I decided to make a cherry cheesecake. I was trying to figure out a way to set it in the freezer so it would chill faster. As Iwas doing this, Greg walked into the kitchen. I saw the look on his face, so I explained to him that I didn't want to have to wait so long for it to be ready to eat. He just smiled at me and in a goofy voice said, "patience, hurry up.. I have got to have it now!" Then he looked at me like, so, how is that working out for you? We both cracked up.
I guess that it really all goes back to being disorganized. See, had I been organized in the first place... I would have planned making the cheesecake, and would have timed it much better. but instead at 8:00 pm last night, I decided I would make it. so of course.. I HAD to put it in the freezer so I could still eat it and get to bed at a decent hour.
Anyway, it has been fun going back through my prayer journal. Many prayers have been answered, and some I did not even realize. That is one of the things I love about keep a journal. It is awesome to be able to go back and see all the places God has been working in my life and others. It is easier sometimes to look back and see the plans God had. When you are in the midst of things going on, it can be hard to see that God is right there wanting the best for you. He is working things out as He has planned in a way that will prosper you.
Our "homework" from our Bible study this week to read Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you" Declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.
I don't think God is talking about financial prospering here, He is talking about peace and security in Him. Life everlasting. I cannot encourage you enough to begin a prayer journal and enable yourself to see where God has prospered you and planned for you in the past year. You'll be amazed.
I sort of had to laugh at one entry.
If you have been reading this blog....you'll know my struggle my patience. Well, on December 5, 2006 there is a reference in my journal, that says, " Please give me the patience I need to have..it is probably the one thing I am worst at-- having patience! I always want it done snap-snap. I have improved in some areas, but in others I have far to go." Yeah, that was a year ago. So, I don't know why, but it made me laugh. It also made me feel bad that in a years time I am still working on the same thing. Then, as I sit here and write, I am thinking...man, had I just gotten the patience a year ago I wouldn't be needing it now.
I think that thought in itself shows my struggle.
I also know that God is certainly hearing me and still working on me in this area~ as I continue to need patience in many situations that arise. I have been told that God will continue to give you certain things in your life until you learn how to handle them correctly.
Last night I decided to make a cherry cheesecake. I was trying to figure out a way to set it in the freezer so it would chill faster. As Iwas doing this, Greg walked into the kitchen. I saw the look on his face, so I explained to him that I didn't want to have to wait so long for it to be ready to eat. He just smiled at me and in a goofy voice said, "patience, hurry up.. I have got to have it now!" Then he looked at me like, so, how is that working out for you? We both cracked up.
I guess that it really all goes back to being disorganized. See, had I been organized in the first place... I would have planned making the cheesecake, and would have timed it much better. but instead at 8:00 pm last night, I decided I would make it. so of course.. I HAD to put it in the freezer so I could still eat it and get to bed at a decent hour.
Anyway, it has been fun going back through my prayer journal. Many prayers have been answered, and some I did not even realize. That is one of the things I love about keep a journal. It is awesome to be able to go back and see all the places God has been working in my life and others. It is easier sometimes to look back and see the plans God had. When you are in the midst of things going on, it can be hard to see that God is right there wanting the best for you. He is working things out as He has planned in a way that will prosper you.
Our "homework" from our Bible study this week to read Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you" Declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.
I don't think God is talking about financial prospering here, He is talking about peace and security in Him. Life everlasting. I cannot encourage you enough to begin a prayer journal and enable yourself to see where God has prospered you and planned for you in the past year. You'll be amazed.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
God is in control
It is Sunday! This past week has been a very good one, filled with fellowship and an awesome time of self reflection. I am looking forward to the days ahead and doing my best to be on target with what I understand to be God's will in my life.
I say what I understand to Be God's will as I have not totally figured out how to tell if it is God's will. I have also figured out that many things have been happening that are God's will...and I just didn't understand it to be so.
I think sometimes we search too hard. We have such a desire to involve God and do what He wants...that we don't even see all these little things around us happening that are God at work. In that same instance, we forgo opportunities He is giving to us, because we don't see them as Him at work.
I am checking out a new book, it is one we are pretty sure we are going to use for the women's retreat. In it, the author has giving me new faith and assurance on my ability to evangelize. He has made me look at things in a whole new light. I have been feeling really useless in this area. Seriously struggling and yet feeling very convicted that is a direct commission to me.
This book has shown me differently, than what I was thinking of my abilities. Is it coincidence that this book has been laid before me, and with absolutely no effort on my part? Is it just happenstance that I had only recently concluded my "gift" is not in this area?
Or....
Could it be that God, as the bible states.... knew what my needs were, even before the became known to me~~ Perhaps He put me in this position to be working with this group of women..on this particular retreat...at this particular time in my life~~~~ because He knew my needs. Or maybe He was keenly aware that I would be growing into a more mature christian at this point in my life...and I would need this information.
See, I had no plans of my own to be a part of planning this retreat. I felt inadequate for one, and too disorganized for another. All I did when this was being discussed was offer to ask my cousin to sing at the retreat. The next thing I know, my name is on the list to help plan it.
We had no theme, no preconceived ideas...
Even though I could not see past my nose, God could! He makes all things work for good. He put me in this group of women because He knew I need to be there. He knew that I was going to have these struggles. He knew I would need that reinforcement. He knew that the retreat was going to be about this area. He knew that I was going to have others put into my life that were going to be counting on me to show them Christ. He knows that I may be the only Christ they see. He is in control. Jeremiah 29:11
The following is from an email I received today... Yeah, I think God is talking to me about this!
And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, "Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you." (Mark 5:18-19 NKJV)
Jesus immediately enlists this man as a missionary by sending him back to his old friends. Notice how simple his message was: "Tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you." Sometimes we think that in order to be an effective witness, we need to have a theological degree under our belt. Not true. All that's necessary is a personal encounter with Jesus and a willingness to share the good things He has done in our lives. It's just that simple, and if a former demoniac can do it, we can too.
I say what I understand to Be God's will as I have not totally figured out how to tell if it is God's will. I have also figured out that many things have been happening that are God's will...and I just didn't understand it to be so.
I think sometimes we search too hard. We have such a desire to involve God and do what He wants...that we don't even see all these little things around us happening that are God at work. In that same instance, we forgo opportunities He is giving to us, because we don't see them as Him at work.
I am checking out a new book, it is one we are pretty sure we are going to use for the women's retreat. In it, the author has giving me new faith and assurance on my ability to evangelize. He has made me look at things in a whole new light. I have been feeling really useless in this area. Seriously struggling and yet feeling very convicted that is a direct commission to me.
This book has shown me differently, than what I was thinking of my abilities. Is it coincidence that this book has been laid before me, and with absolutely no effort on my part? Is it just happenstance that I had only recently concluded my "gift" is not in this area?
Or....
Could it be that God, as the bible states.... knew what my needs were, even before the became known to me~~ Perhaps He put me in this position to be working with this group of women..on this particular retreat...at this particular time in my life~~~~ because He knew my needs. Or maybe He was keenly aware that I would be growing into a more mature christian at this point in my life...and I would need this information.
See, I had no plans of my own to be a part of planning this retreat. I felt inadequate for one, and too disorganized for another. All I did when this was being discussed was offer to ask my cousin to sing at the retreat. The next thing I know, my name is on the list to help plan it.
We had no theme, no preconceived ideas...
Even though I could not see past my nose, God could! He makes all things work for good. He put me in this group of women because He knew I need to be there. He knew that I was going to have these struggles. He knew I would need that reinforcement. He knew that the retreat was going to be about this area. He knew that I was going to have others put into my life that were going to be counting on me to show them Christ. He knows that I may be the only Christ they see. He is in control. Jeremiah 29:11
The following is from an email I received today... Yeah, I think God is talking to me about this!
And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, "Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you." (Mark 5:18-19 NKJV)
Jesus immediately enlists this man as a missionary by sending him back to his old friends. Notice how simple his message was: "Tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you." Sometimes we think that in order to be an effective witness, we need to have a theological degree under our belt. Not true. All that's necessary is a personal encounter with Jesus and a willingness to share the good things He has done in our lives. It's just that simple, and if a former demoniac can do it, we can too.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
What is Non-Negotiable to You?
I am close to being finished with the book my nephew gave me. (Ordering Your Private World) It really has been a blessing to me in many different avenues of my life. A couple of key things that stick out to me from the book are that I need to have order in my private life so that everything else in my life falls into place.
If I am not doing well spiritually, then I may as well hang it up in all other areas. ( I have experienced this first hand and can testify..it is true!)
I have also learned that I should never, NEVER read any book, listen to any lecture, or go to church without a notebook and pen in hand. There is always going to be something I can learn! oh, I also learned it is fine if I am reading a bunch of books at once.... it shows my desire to learn!! Yippeee !!! Give me back all my books! (I may be translating that a little loosely)
Perhaps the thing that I took away from this book this most is that I AM DISORGANIZED. This pretty much falls into all areas of my life, but especially regarding time. I have had no concept of organizing my time. I either have too much time and am wasting it with unproductive stuff. Or, I have myself so totally overbooked, I cannot keep up. Step one in turning this problem around is investing in a calendar type journal. Step two is penciling in my private time for bible study and prayer before I allow other things to take up my time. I have got to learn to treat these areas of my life just as importantly as any meeting or other obligation I have. In reality they are more/most important.... yet I sacrifice them at times to fit other things in.
Certain things in your schedule are "fixed", certain things are discretionary. Personal time with God must be "fixed" time. Pencil in your family time as well, and do not veer from it. Do not let others dictate your time. What is non-negotiable to you?
In the book, the author (Gordon McDonald) tells us to look to Jesus as our example. He was under constant pressure, pursued by friend and foe alike. Every word He said was monitored. Every action analyzed. Every gesture commented on. He had no private life. He lived with the same intrusions and demands~~YET, it never appeared that way. He made sure He had the time to be alone with God. He budgeted His time. He weighed the use of time against the mission of His work, and then lived accordingly. He knew His limits.
Where your priorities are - your time will be there also.
If I am not doing well spiritually, then I may as well hang it up in all other areas. ( I have experienced this first hand and can testify..it is true!)
I have also learned that I should never, NEVER read any book, listen to any lecture, or go to church without a notebook and pen in hand. There is always going to be something I can learn! oh, I also learned it is fine if I am reading a bunch of books at once.... it shows my desire to learn!! Yippeee !!! Give me back all my books! (I may be translating that a little loosely)
Perhaps the thing that I took away from this book this most is that I AM DISORGANIZED. This pretty much falls into all areas of my life, but especially regarding time. I have had no concept of organizing my time. I either have too much time and am wasting it with unproductive stuff. Or, I have myself so totally overbooked, I cannot keep up. Step one in turning this problem around is investing in a calendar type journal. Step two is penciling in my private time for bible study and prayer before I allow other things to take up my time. I have got to learn to treat these areas of my life just as importantly as any meeting or other obligation I have. In reality they are more/most important.... yet I sacrifice them at times to fit other things in.
Certain things in your schedule are "fixed", certain things are discretionary. Personal time with God must be "fixed" time. Pencil in your family time as well, and do not veer from it. Do not let others dictate your time. What is non-negotiable to you?
In the book, the author (Gordon McDonald) tells us to look to Jesus as our example. He was under constant pressure, pursued by friend and foe alike. Every word He said was monitored. Every action analyzed. Every gesture commented on. He had no private life. He lived with the same intrusions and demands~~YET, it never appeared that way. He made sure He had the time to be alone with God. He budgeted His time. He weighed the use of time against the mission of His work, and then lived accordingly. He knew His limits.
Where your priorities are - your time will be there also.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Real Relationships
We have been fortunate to come into the acquaintance of some really awesome people this past year. What a blessing to be able to really develop a relationship with another couple and be able to totally be yourself... in everything! We both have many individual friends that are terrific..that we love to spend time with, but it is just special to have another couple to share together with. It does not matter about the good or the bad....we like them for them, and vice versa. We have a great time together, and are coming closer to the Lord as we come closer together as a group. I am really excited about this. I have never before felt so comfortable in a group setting to discuss the truly important issues of life. We joke around too.... but it is all in good faith ! It doesn't matter what we discuss each of us always have something to say, each of us are always willing to listen. We care about each other. We care about what happens to each other, and we desire to maintain the relationship. We make time to spend together, we do things for each other. We give and we take. We do not take for granted that if we do not make time for each other, if we don't talk or get together.... We don't assume the relationship will stay where it is~ nor do we think it would go any further. As I said, we give and we take.
This relationship is much like the relationship God desires with each of us. You do not just become comfortable and at ease talking to each other when it is done on a seldom basis. You don't have the deep feelings and desires to please the other person either. The more you do these things though, the closer you get and the more you want to be together. Soon the relationship becomes a part of you. The day does not seem right unless you have spoken to this person. Somehow a calmness comes about you when you are in their presence.
At first it may seem awkward... you don't know each other well. It becomes more and more natural though. It becomes deep.... It becomes a desire, a must, a way of life. Take time to talk to God today. Take time to listen to God today. As you feel ready, or prompted by Him~ ask about this relationship, take it to the next level. Just be ready, because He already is. He is ready and waiting on you.
Motivation
Motivations...... It just wants to make me shake me head back and forth. Why do other people think they know my own personal motivation..or that I even had motivation? Can people not do things to just be nice? Can they not do them because it is the right thing to do? Does everything everyone does have to have a motive behind it?
I find myself doing it as well. Assuming that I know another person's intentions and motivations. Now, unless they flat out told me their exact motivation.... there is no way I can assume it and be 100% accurate, perhaps not even close to being accurate.
Today someone pulled right in front of me into a parking garage. I thought to myself, "now that was rude... what makes them think they have the right to do that? They are in such a hurry... they had to cut me off." I pulled in behind them, after grumbling under my breath. The car stopped prior to reaching the automatic ticket dispenser. A man exited the car. I was thinking..." for Pete's sake, what now? Must enjoy that I am just stuck here...waiting" As he struggled to stand up and then walk to the dispenser (due to an obvious physical deformity).... I felt about two inches tall. Though he had no idea how much it had irritated me when he pulled in in front of me.... I felt an urge to apologize for being so self centered. How dare I assume his motivation was to cut me off...and then purposely slow me down. What right do any of us have to make a judgement call on someone else when we have no idea of their motivation nor of their circumstances? Like I said, I have done it...I obviously currently still do it. However, I am going to ask God to help me and give me the right motives myself.... I want to think the best of others. I want to be forgiving and loving~ even when they do not deserve it or want it. If we have to think of a motive that someone has, can we at least try to make it a positive one? Let's build them up instead of cutting them down.
Philippians 1:10 (Amplified Bible)
So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble].
I find myself doing it as well. Assuming that I know another person's intentions and motivations. Now, unless they flat out told me their exact motivation.... there is no way I can assume it and be 100% accurate, perhaps not even close to being accurate.
Today someone pulled right in front of me into a parking garage. I thought to myself, "now that was rude... what makes them think they have the right to do that? They are in such a hurry... they had to cut me off." I pulled in behind them, after grumbling under my breath. The car stopped prior to reaching the automatic ticket dispenser. A man exited the car. I was thinking..." for Pete's sake, what now? Must enjoy that I am just stuck here...waiting" As he struggled to stand up and then walk to the dispenser (due to an obvious physical deformity).... I felt about two inches tall. Though he had no idea how much it had irritated me when he pulled in in front of me.... I felt an urge to apologize for being so self centered. How dare I assume his motivation was to cut me off...and then purposely slow me down. What right do any of us have to make a judgement call on someone else when we have no idea of their motivation nor of their circumstances? Like I said, I have done it...I obviously currently still do it. However, I am going to ask God to help me and give me the right motives myself.... I want to think the best of others. I want to be forgiving and loving~ even when they do not deserve it or want it. If we have to think of a motive that someone has, can we at least try to make it a positive one? Let's build them up instead of cutting them down.
Philippians 1:10 (Amplified Bible)
So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble].
Sunday, December 02, 2007
the frustrations of today's technology
My computer has been on the way out for the last few days. I have been frustrated with it, as I can typically always figure out what is going on and fix it. This time however, it has continually been very difficult for me keep it running. It may shut off at any time for no apparent reason. It may or may not reboot for me. I have taken it apart, grabbed parts from other pieces and stuck them in..I have done everything I can think of.
I have never been trained to work on computers, but that has never stopped me from doing it. We have only ever bought one computer new, that was in 1997 or maybe 1996. Too long ago for me to remember. Since that time I have been given computers...found computers on my adventures in dumpster diving...and bought a few used ones at the hospital for $50.00. I have always been able to get them running, to add memory, modems,programs, DSL components.... and then use them like nothing was ever wrong. Nothing would stop me from giving it my best try to get it going, and rarely was I not able to do it. I have even gotten to the point of fixing my friends computers and giving advice to others on how to fix theirs.
The past few days however, the computer has gotten the best of me. I was getting to the point of giving up, and even entertaining the idea of purchasing a brand new one! I came home from church and decided to give it one last try! I actually read something about what to do this time. I have never taken the time to do this before. I rely upon my own abilities and past experiences to take care of things with the computers. It is amazing when we go to a owners manual, and get the directions straight from it how much easier it makes things!
As I was messing around with the computer some more, I thought about our Sunday school lesson today~ I thought about what our pastor said about being "plugged in". I though about what he said on not only showing or appearing as we "should", but learning it, living it, knowing it in our heart and displaying in our lifestyle. God gave us His word. He has told us what to do and how, yet many times we try to figure it out and do it all on our own. (like me and the computers) We ignore the very thing that would make our life easiest to get through. Why do we do this? What is even dumber than doing is, is the fact that when we do read the manual and follow it, our life has peace and is so much easier....and we know it, yet we don't do it! As our pastor also said today, Do what you know is right. You will be challenged by others to do what they say instead of what you know to be true. This is a tool of Satan, to lurk about and cause doubt in your mind. He tries to make reality appear different than it is.
ok, ok...I am getting off on a tangent here! The point is, I have been working on computers for ten years now. It has "worked" for me at times in the past....Not following the manual, will not always work though. It becomes a guessing game. If you are not positive of what to do, you may try anything to get the results you want. Some of it may work....... for awhile.........
But why do this, when you have the life source so readily available to you?
I have never been trained to work on computers, but that has never stopped me from doing it. We have only ever bought one computer new, that was in 1997 or maybe 1996. Too long ago for me to remember. Since that time I have been given computers...found computers on my adventures in dumpster diving...and bought a few used ones at the hospital for $50.00. I have always been able to get them running, to add memory, modems,programs, DSL components.... and then use them like nothing was ever wrong. Nothing would stop me from giving it my best try to get it going, and rarely was I not able to do it. I have even gotten to the point of fixing my friends computers and giving advice to others on how to fix theirs.
The past few days however, the computer has gotten the best of me. I was getting to the point of giving up, and even entertaining the idea of purchasing a brand new one! I came home from church and decided to give it one last try! I actually read something about what to do this time. I have never taken the time to do this before. I rely upon my own abilities and past experiences to take care of things with the computers. It is amazing when we go to a owners manual, and get the directions straight from it how much easier it makes things!
As I was messing around with the computer some more, I thought about our Sunday school lesson today~ I thought about what our pastor said about being "plugged in". I though about what he said on not only showing or appearing as we "should", but learning it, living it, knowing it in our heart and displaying in our lifestyle. God gave us His word. He has told us what to do and how, yet many times we try to figure it out and do it all on our own. (like me and the computers) We ignore the very thing that would make our life easiest to get through. Why do we do this? What is even dumber than doing is, is the fact that when we do read the manual and follow it, our life has peace and is so much easier....and we know it, yet we don't do it! As our pastor also said today, Do what you know is right. You will be challenged by others to do what they say instead of what you know to be true. This is a tool of Satan, to lurk about and cause doubt in your mind. He tries to make reality appear different than it is.
ok, ok...I am getting off on a tangent here! The point is, I have been working on computers for ten years now. It has "worked" for me at times in the past....Not following the manual, will not always work though. It becomes a guessing game. If you are not positive of what to do, you may try anything to get the results you want. Some of it may work....... for awhile.........
But why do this, when you have the life source so readily available to you?
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