Finding Yourself by Losing Yourself

2011-09-02T21:41:00.000-04:00

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My family

2011-08-26T15:54:00.008-04:00

I have been blessed from my youth with a fantastic husband! I am so grateful for who he is, what he stands for, how he loves me :-) You know that song...Wind Beneath my Wings? ( I don't know if that truly is the title) That is My Gregory. I could never thank him enough for making my life complete. More so even than that though, I cannot thank God enough for his providence in my life by placing Greg at my side. We were married young (18 and 22) most marriages that begin like that don't last... Add having two children in the first three years of marriage, and your odds are doubled against you. There was something different about us though. There always has been since we first met. Soul mates, is how I have heard it described. I think that sounds perfect for how I feel about Greg.

Everyday hasn't been a bed of roses, but with a little pruning here and there, more on my side than his.... we have developed this totally awesome relationship that is thriving more than ever. Amazing how beautiful something can become when you take care of it, nourish it, and allow it room to grow.

The 15th of this month our beautiful and talented daughter turned 25! So we have been married 27 years now and have a superfragalistic 26 year old son as well. Bittersweet to reflect upon it all. My heart overflows with love and joy..and yet some sadness that time has flown like it has. It is so difficult to believe when you are young, that "this too will pass" but you blink your eyes and it does ~ passes by, and you have to shake your head sometimes and wonder how it all happened. I love the place I am in my life right now. On occasion though, I would love to return to 20 years ago or so. I would like to take a little more time to have my children sit on my lap, tell me goofy jokes, and whisper in my ear. I would like to take a peek in their room and watch their chest rise and fall. I would like to go out camping and see the wonder in their eyes as they take in the new sights and sounds. I would like to sled down the big hill again screaming and laughing and then race to the top. I would like to be seeing how many more kitchen containers we could turn into frog or lightening bug homes.

Life is full of so many wonderful things. Don't waste it by hurrying the day along. Really do take time to take it in, to hug a little longer, to smile and enjoy the craziness. Be thankful you have had the opportunities you have. Be gracious for God's creation and his mercy. Show that mercy to others. Don't be afraid of the unknown. Have faith.

Just like Jesus!! yippppeeeee

2011-03-23T18:46:00.002-04:00

I am reading a book titled, "Christianity Isn't For Whimps" by Mike Nappa. (very good reading thus far!)

He tells a story in it about this young man that worked and worked to have the same moves as a certain pro football player. The kid would work himself silly to be just like like this player. After an awesome catch one day he shouted out "did you see that? It was just like (insert name)! it was perfect!!" He was so excited and full of joy. The author then says how he wonders what it would be like if we all practiced Jesus' moves ...studied how he did things, practiced in all of our free time to be like him~ and then when we did some great marvelous thing jump for joy and shout out "did you see that?? It was just like Jesus! It was perfect!"

I had to smile as I read that. It is pretty amazing how we worship the things we do, how we want to emulate a person... and yell and scream for our favorite teams. How we jump up and down when they score a point or throw our arms in the air! How can it be alright for our population to do this in worship for a sport, but not for the King of kings?

Craziness.

Apathy

2011-03-22T09:37:00.003-04:00

How easy it is to become apathetic...all you have to do is quit studying the word of God. Then boom! You find yourself not really caring anymore. You have to continue to grow in your faith each and everyday! Satan will do everything possible to oppress your walk, so be aware of that. Don't let the daily task in your life take importance over the task of your life. We are told in the book of Judges how Israel fell into chaos when they stopped seeking God. Lack of discipline in our lives can cause us to fall away. Amazing when you fall from something how quickly the distance is put between you and where you were standing. You have to make the choice to make God and his word your authority. Every single day when you put your feet on the floor that morning....be determined. Lead others by your own lifestyle. Ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit, fresh and new that day. Ask to be clothed in Christ. Take out the armour you have been given. Open it up and put it to use...fill your mind with his word.

Show your faith..don't shove it.

2011-02-08T17:59:00.005-05:00

Am I brainwashed by thinking that something that began less than 100 years ago cannot hold more weight than something that has history from the beginning of time?

What makes people believe what they believe? I got to thinking~ why do we spend more time defending our faith than showing our faith?

I want my relationship with my creator to reflect in my everyday life...I don't want to have to be all legalistic. I do not believe the Bible calls for us to be so. I think that it calls for us to love. More than anything else we can do for one another and to spread the word of Christ is to love.

There is so much division among people...people who have the same goal, uniting each other and bringing more love to the world.

I believe in one true God, the creator of the world. I believe he gave us free will. I believe that God gave us all a choice of how we would live our lives. It is not up to me to convince someone to believe what I believe. It is up to me however to share the good news of God's love. To have that love be unconditional, and pray for others. However, I have to leave it at that, and trust that the seed has been sown. Water as I am able and trust the harvest to God himself.

So I am going to stop defending my faith in a defensive way.... and instead show my faith in my actions and my words. I pray that God's will is done and all can see the peace and joy he gives so freely by how I live my life. I pray that they too will want the relationship with this God of mine. The one true God Almighty!

Team Lisa

2010-02-15T07:35:00.004-05:00

Life just keeps flying by...nothing we can do to make time stand still. Seems like sometimes things should just STOP and let us catch up. It is hard sometimes to realize that even though you may have been thrown a curve ball, not everyone was tossed that same ball. We aren't all on the same field...and that is a good thing.

So I am in Florida right now. I am not sure how many of you know that my brother's wife, Lisa, had a huge curve ball thrown at her in early December 09.......... What began as a simple ear infection soon became a battle for life. Over two months later and going through a couple brain surgeries, dependent upon machines breathing for her, being in a medically induced coma, having a stroke, the inability to walk or even hold her head up, losing her sight...her independence~

I came to visit and perhaps help out a bit in the daily activities of what this new life presented to them. I planned to bring encouragement and hope... lighten their load. I wasn't sure of what to expect exactly. I was so excited and yet a little apprehensive of being there. This was a different environment for me, unfamiliar. Not my regular comfort zone. As soon as I walked in the door, any fear or anxiety I may have had was gone!

Right away Lisa was making sure I was okay...did I need anything how was my flight, etc. She thanked me for being there and we hugged. I wasn't sure how to approach her blindness...what to say or anything like that. I had told myself to NOT say things like, "look at this! OR " did you see that?" "check that out"~~ I have never been around anyone that is blind. ...So what do I do..first thing? I say OH! I have to SHOW you something I brought! (didn't phase me a bit) Lisa immediately pipes in with this grin on her face..."well that is going to be a little hard, since I can't see!" She giggled, and the tone was set!

Later as we talked and caught up a bit she went on to tell me how she almost didn't live through this....she told me more than once how blessed she is. It just makes my heart smile to see her so animated and full of life. She has not complained once...instead she finds the benefits in life as a blind person~ one that she is pretty excited about is getting a parking space right up front!

My brother has amazed me not only with his love and compassion, but his dedication and drive. He has thought of everything and truly is her right hand man!

I planned to bring hope to them, instead they are showing me how to hit a curve ball and not only get on base, but make a home run! TEAM LISA all the way.

My theology Paragraph

2009-11-11T12:52:00.003-05:00

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."

Thankful!

2009-11-07T18:52:00.003-05:00

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.

gossip in disguise

2009-10-22T17:57:00.003-04:00

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

Servant Evangelism

2009-10-19T21:07:00.003-04:00

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!

Jesus was Homeless Too!

2009-10-02T18:38:00.006-04:00

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!

What would happen?

2009-09-16T08:57:00.003-04:00

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.

whoops

2009-09-12T15:35:00.002-04:00

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.

In the light

2009-08-18T18:55:00.000-04:00

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.

Here comes Sunday!

2009-08-13T10:15:00.000-04:00

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....

My best friend and I

2009-08-13T09:14:00.000-04:00

August 1,2009 Creation Museum

2009-08-02T17:59:00.003-04:00

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.

Mt Lemmon

2009-06-17T21:30:00.000-04:00

Mt Lemmon was AWESOME !

Thank God, that he will never let me go!

2009-06-06T19:59:00.005-04:00

I keep thinking of reason why I haven't written on here, and yet..i think the truth is that I am at a roadblock. Perhaps self imposed?? Sometimes I feel so very close to God, like I can feel his touch. Other times, I feel so far away.... like there is no way I could even fathom him speaking to me. I do not understand why I cannot stay on a steady path. Why do I allow myself to waver, when it makes me feel miserable?
I do know the difference of having God in my life or not having God in my life, and I know FOR SURE the difference it makes. I know how much happier how much more at peace I am..how I see the joy all around me. And yet, I allow myself to become distanced. I don't do it on purpose. It starts as one small slip, and then leads into this huge gap in my life.
I find myself wondering what happened? How did I get from there to here? I think it is the same with alot of things in our lives, but of things that truly make our life complete.. it is the one and only. Why would I not continually nourish that which makes me complete?
I'm still working on figuring it all out. I never want to go back to where I used to be though, so I know I have to remove the roadblock. Whatever means are necessary, and discipline myself to keep the road open and working in both directions. Thank you God for never leaving me or forsaking me, even when I place things in the way of my reaching you. Thanks to you for leading me back into your arms, and just holding me until I am ready to get back on my feet again.

Prevenient Grace

2009-04-30T11:24:00.004-04:00

I mentioned earlier about Prevenient Grace. That was a new term to me not so long ago. The basic definition of Prevenient Grace is that God is present with us throughout our lives.

Even when we have no plan, God does. Jeremiah 1:5 tells us that God knew us even before he formed us in the womb.

He pursues us throughout our life. He prepares us for circumstances that we will endure. As you go through life doing your "own thing" you will more than likely will feel this yearning for something more... That is God pursuing you.

Someone once told me, "No one can limit you, when the grace of God goes before you." I believe that. Now that I know about Prevenient Grace, I see it all over my life. In my parents, my friends, the Wednesday night church van that came through my neighborhood, small encounters with strangers, a job change, my husband, a place I had no plans of going....

There is only one thing in my life that I do not see the hand of God. I know He had to of been there. I know He certainly carried me through. But I am still struggling to have a clear picture of why. I realize that all things are not revealed to us. I have accepted it (still working on accepting it), and continue to move through it. I pray for the knowledge to comprehend. I believe that God will reveal it to me at the proper time. I have to patient, and know that I am surrounded by Prevenient Grace.

power in prayer

2009-04-29T20:02:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned below, I have been going through some old keepsakes. I used to keep a prayer journal. I only do it on occasion now, but finding this, makes me want to get back into the daily habit of journaling prayer. Sometimes it is easy to forget how much God does answer our prayers. Perhaps with a yes, perhaps with a no...or maybe a "just wait."

I wrote the prayer below in my journal, after possible 8 or 9 years of not "belonging" to a church and just a few months shy of attending one. I had forgotten that I had even made these request.

10/2005
Lord, Please give me the guidance in finding a family of believers where I should become a part. Weather that be a place I have been or or somewhere else. I need the contact with other believers. I need to focus on you and share my faith. Help me Lord to be who you desire... Help me to treat everyone with love and respect. Continue to watch over me and guide me on my journey to eternity. Convict me lord through your Spirit of what is unpleasing to you and help me to have a heart of worship and be a faithful servant. Amen! Michelle

That is the prayer I wrote in October of 2005. Shortly after that I began attending Maple Grove Christian Church. I believe in March or April of 2006, I became a member of that congregation. In the fall of 2006 I quit smoking after 20 years (and 20 attempts). I LOVE to worship, and am feeling led by the Spirit more everyday! I am still happy to call MGCC my home, I have met many other believers...and God continues to show me where He wants me to make changes in my life to serve Him. Who would think such a simple and short prayer would make such huge impacts on my life? Praise God!

old studies.. same wisdom

2009-04-29T19:38:00.002-04:00

I have been going through some old keepsakes and such..trying to get organized. I came across some notes from previous bible studies. Several things really stood out to me.

1. Practice being in the presence of God.
2. God is present throughout our lives = prevenient grace...can you pinpoint a time in your life that you know that God was with you, guiding you~ even though you had no relationship with Him..maybe you had never heard of Him.
3. God's love and grace are greater than all of our wrong choices.
4. God's love and forgiveness become our motivation for Holy living, not vice versa. Just accept His grace! You cannot do anything to earn favor with God. It is through the grace of Jesus' death that you have favor.
Learn to be happy with who God made you to be.
5. You can receive daily deliverance from the power of sin by calling on the Spirit. Galatians 5:16 "So I say, live by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of sinful nature." The authority of Satan has been broken, it cannot touch us, unless we allow it.
6. Focus on the Problem Solver, not the problem.
7. James 4:8 "Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you.
8.What would others say is the driving force in my life? What do I want others to say is the driving force in my life? What do I need to change to make these match?
9. Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. 1John 4:4
10. NO matter who you are or what you have done, if your faith is strong enough, He will heal you. He was the last choice for the woman in the bible who had a bleeding issue, yet He helped her. He will do the same for you, when you reach through the masses, He knows. He will hold your hand.
11. James 4:7 Resist the devil and he will flee from you.(memorize this verse)
12. "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1Peter 5:8
13. Have something that you want to do, and you just can't? Jesus can, and will. He lives in you. Call on His power and stand firm.
Luke 5: 1_11 It is not too late.

Blessings

2009-04-14T19:15:00.003-04:00

Beautiful weekend, other than all of the rain...

I got a fabulous surprise Sunday when my son and his girlfriend showed up at our church. What a joy to see his face! I love that kid like crazy!! While we were sitting there during the service, it kept coming to mind how God must feel when we come to him. I was so overjoyed at seeing my firstborn, I just kept thinking...wow, imagine the rejoicing God does when we submit ourselves to him. When we quit running and we ask him to be a part of our lives. I know for me, having Allen there Sunday made the whole day alot brighter. I can't even fathom what God experiences when we choose to be a follower of his.

I am blessed and want nothing more than those blessings to be Allen's to stake claim of as well. If we want the best for our children, if we suffer when they do, and rejoice when they do....... How much more so does God do this for us? Indescribable indeed! You are amazing God.........you placed the stars in the sky~~

WOW, THANKS

2009-04-08T17:26:00.003-04:00

Thanks, thanks, and THANKS for the prayers! The test came back showing the tissue to benign! PTL !!
I have tell you I have never felt so wrapped up in my life! It was so amazing to be so completely free from worry and fear and all that jazz! I seriously felt like I could handle anything at all that was thrown my way. I know the reason behind that is the prayers of God's people..intercessing for me specifically! WOW, how totally awesome! I have just basically floated through the last several days.

To God be the Glory forever and ever and ever, Amen!

God is Good!

2009-04-07T05:50:00.002-04:00

God is good........all the time !

Thanks for all the prayers yesterday! I did feel His hand upon me (perhaps under me, holding me up) yesterday! I felt great peace and was amazed at how totally calm I have felt all the way around.

The procedure was basically painless....quick, and the people were caring and friendly. I came home, went to bed and the rest is history.

I will get the results of the biopsy on Wednesday afternoon, so I do appreciate your continued prayers. The doctor doing the procedure said that upon actually seeing the area that he believes the percentage of it being cancerous is low. I go in at 3:00 on Wednesday, and will let you know what I find out! Either way, I KNOW who is in control and all things happen for a purpose far greater than we can comprehend.

God Bless!

Open House

2009-04-03T17:17:00.003-04:00

Tonight is our open house at the new church grounds!! It is from 6 until 7, come if you can!! Be in prayer over our move and our steadfastness to do God's work.

I did find out yesterday that I have to have a biopsy done on Monday for a solid mass that an ultrasound showed in my left breast. Please be in prayer for me to stay calm and be at peace until I know the results..well even after I know them! :-) I get the results on Wednesday.

The little things

2009-03-31T18:15:00.004-04:00

I have waited a little while to comment on this, as I have been unsure of what to say.... A lady that I have been working with for the past few months lost her husband just recently. Very tragic accident at his workplace. I never met him, but have heard wonderful things about him. Great wonderful family man /husband/father/brother/son/friend. I went to pay my respects to this fine Christain gentleman, Tim McCammon. I was so uplifted by the many that came to honor him and to support her and their children. It brought tears to my eyes to see the people pouring out of the building..wrapping around it on all sides..just waiting to pay respects to this family. The whole entire day was like that, as well as the evening, and into the night. From what I hear until close to midnight people came from near and far. I believe it was close to three hours before I had the honor to give my support to this family. Though it was overwhelming~ sad and so hard to comprehend~ how amazing to see what a great testimony to God this family continued to give to each and everyone of us who came. How any of them were still standing, was by God's mighty hand..and they were not hesitant to tell you so.
I find myself thinking about Tim and DeAnna all the time. Little things especially make me stop. We take so much for granted each day. Especially the little things we have come to expect. I am thankful that they will all be together again, but I still think about NOW. How do you just go on? What a heaviness on your heart to just have your life turned upside down.
I have prayed countless prayers for this family, and I want to ask you to do the same. Lift them up, pray for their strength, encouragement, tenacity... Pray for God to wrap them tightly and keep them close. Bless them. I pray that through this tragedy, triumph comes. I pray for someone who knew Tim or maybe who didn't even know him, to see the example of his life. To let it make an impact on their own lives, that they too can be a representative of Christ. We know that God does all things for good, for He himself tells us so. He also tells us that it will not all be revealed to us until it is time. He does have a plan. He wants you in it. From what I understand, so did Tim. Let us honor him in this.

Today's Verse

2009-03-31T04:43:00.004-04:00

Today's Bible verse hit home with me.

James 3:9-10
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.

How very easy it is to see the faults of others and even let their "faults" become our focus. Why is it so easy to see where other people are making major mistakes, saying rude things, and just all around doing a poor job of representing Christ...and yet our own lives could reflect theirs as if it were a mirror? Even though this is the case many times, we see it in their lives, but are totally blind to it in our own. Even if we are not blind to it, we certainly excuse it or defend it. We are no different than our brother.

Luke 6:42 How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

Make Time for Prayer

2009-03-26T18:58:00.002-04:00

Make Time for Prayer

"Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened. "Or what man is there among you, when his son shall ask him for a loaf, will give him a stone? "Or if he shall ask for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him! (NAS, Matthew 7:7-11)

Prayer is loving communication with God. Prayer may be long or short, alone or in a group, silent or aloud, but should be a true communication with God and not done for public recognition.

God promised to answer our prayers and give us everything we need and more. But a wise parent will not give a child everything he or she wants. Similarly, prayer is not a magical trick to get anything we want or a "quick fix" for problems that we should be solving ourselves. God answers prayer requests in His own way in His own time, and will not grant requests that are against His holy and wise purposes, are selfish in nature, are not in our best long-term interest, or those made with impure motives.

Often, we must be persistent in prayer. The answer, when it comes, may be in a form radically different than we expected, and we must be alert to that possibility. Sometimes, the answer must come from within ourselves and persistent prayer will help us find that answer. We may need a new attitude or a different way of looking at things, or we may need to make amends with somebody.

Jesus spent a lot of time praying. He often went to a solitary place and prayed for hours at a time, especially at difficult times in His ministry. Jesus is the great intercessor. He is the one interceding for us every time we speak to God. Let's follow that example and intercede for those we love!

wow, I love PRAYER

2009-03-21T17:32:00.004-04:00

The last couple of days have been so refreshing for me! I love being wrapped up in God, and I think this week...I certainly have been.

I had asked for prayer from various people this week to help me not to worry about some test that I am having done. You know how sometimes your mind goes crazy, and even though you know it is useless to worry~ you just worry anyway?? Well, I had been feeling that way exactly! I went to the doctor late last week. They were able to do a few test that she had ordered, but they could not get me in for one of them for about 10 days after it was ordered. No big deal, still good turn around time... just that I have to NOT WORRY for TEN days. I was automatically worried as the doctor felt this place that shouldn't be there. To wait is very hard for me. I am horrible with patience. This use to be totally impossible for me. Heck by the time the appointment rolled around I would basically have my funeral planned, and be picking out songs.

I didn't want to be that way with this. Sooooooo.. I asked for prayer to not be worried, and guess what?? IT WORKED ! Even sitting here typing this, I can smile and feel confident that whatever God may toss at me, I can handle it. I just feel solid peace.

Thanks to the many of you who have taken the time out to pray especially for me. I am grateful.

Another really "cool" thing is that, I am working on the Emmaus walk this Spring. If any of you have ever worked one, you know that through the months of preparation... each worker is assigned a day that everyone prays for them. This assignment is done months in advance. Guess what? The day people on the team are praying for me is Monday. The test I am not worrying about is on Monday.
Is God totally awesome, or what? I am blessed ! He has a plan for me, and is watching out for me all the time... ALL the time.

Joy Joy Joy

2009-03-14T15:41:00.002-04:00

so..I never made it back to update about the conference. Sorry! It was an awesome conference, and I got many great ideas and material to put to use!! My heart continues to grow for the youth of our church..our community!

Life in general is going very smoothly right now. I praise God for that and for his faithfulness!! We are so truly blessed. As I was talking with God the other day and trying to describe to him and thank him the joy I feel in my life, it was just indescribable. I still stand amazed at the peace in my life. This peace and joy is what I desire to spread to others, I think it may be the ultimate tool in bringing someone to salvation.

I see people going through the motions of life. I see them struggle daily with the worries and pressures of life...the negativity of our culture. I see who I used to be, and it makes feel sadness for them. How do you break through to people and explain to them the joy that Jesus brings?? Maybe it is just a personal thing that you have to feel and truly soak into your own soul.
I know for myself, people could tell me...but I basically thought they were crazy. I wonder now what makes me think I could explain it to them. I guess perhaps, I just want it so bad for them.

Hello

2009-02-28T08:20:00.002-05:00

Wow, has been forever since I have really taken some time on the computer! Now that I sit in front of one all day at work, I find it difficult to log on here at night. :-)

We have so many things happening in our lives right now, it is amazing! God is using us in a variety of areas, and it is a blessing! Right now, I am at a national youth conference in Columbus, Ohio. We are getting ready to head back over to the convention center for morning worship and praise. I LOVE the worship and praise, I could do it all day long! I'll update when we get back tonight!

He gives strength

2009-01-18T16:29:00.003-05:00

Today I got some crazy news about a person who is dear to me. This wonderful sweet person, who has spent her life taking care of others and offering comfort.... Her time has come to be on the receiving end. Perhaps it will be a challenge for her to go from the comforter to the comfortee.

She is a true example of how God would want his children to live. I think that is why I am struggling right now to understand everything. I know that God has all intentions of using all things for our good and the good of others... I do know that, and I believe~ my heart struggles today to fully acknowledge it though.

I want to know what say and how. I have so many times seen her on the other end of this. She has in fact been on the other end for me myself. I have been astonished at her compassion and caring heart.

Philippians 4:16 tells us " Do not fret or have anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving make your wants known to God.

This is my prayer today. I pray that God wraps himself around you my friend, and just holds you...until you can stand on your own again. I pray for his mighty hand upon you. I pray for the power of his healing. I pray for the outpouring of strength and endurance upon you. I pray for his grace to overwhelm you. I pray for his favor and peace to surround you.

I am wondering why.... I don't understand, and I know that I am not suppose to understand everything. It doesn't make any easier to just accept though. I do know however, that God will carry us through. He is right where he always has been, and will be. He has been where we are. He has hurt, he has grieved. He never moves.

Isaiah 40

29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Living a Life on Loan by Rick Rusaw and Eric Swanson

2009-01-12T06:48:00.003-05:00

Living a Life on Loan is a book about grace. It ask who we really are? Are we defined by our failures and successes? Do you see life a limited due to circumstances or do you see you life as part of something BIG? This book is about living how God designed us, being practical in that, and impacting others to live their life accordingly. Its biggest message is living life to the fullest. NO one knows the day or the hour that God will call them home. No one knows how much time they have left to fulfill the great commission that God gave us. Know one knows if tomorrow is going to be here to present God to your unbelieving child. Don't wait until tomorrow what you can do today. Yours is a life on loan.

"As followers of Christ, we each have the ability to make the invisible God visible by our words and our actions." Eric Swanson

I like that quote.

Sometimes it is tough to remember that the most effective message isn't the one that we heard on Sunday in a building with a large group of other believers... the most effective message is one that is lived day in and day out. Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that you guide me today in living out this message. I pray for the Holy Spirit be with me, and for me to have the ability to discern what is effective and what is not. I thank you for this life, for all you have given me so freely. Let your example shine through me today and touch someones life...

Pray Continually with your Attitude

2009-01-08T20:43:00.003-05:00

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (New International Version)

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus

If we followed this verse and carried Christ with us everywhere we went, keeping him in our thoughts with every passing moment. If he were all we wanted and all we desired. If everything else that happened in our life was just a distraction, keeping us from what we really wanted...

Then, we have an idea of what Paul is talking about.

We cannot pray every second of every day any more than we could have been with that person every moment. But it is possible to love Jesus Christ so much that we carry Him with us wherever we go. In this context, Paul is not talking about prayer as an action; He is talking about it as an attitude. It is an attitude that places Jesus above everything else in our life. Even as we work, spend time with friends or relax at home, He is ever present with us.

Our love for Jesus may start small but will grow into a wild fire if we fan the flames. For that to happen, we need to nurture our relationship by remembering Him in everything we do. We need to let Jesus occupy our heart and mind every moment we are awake. If we adopt this unceasing attitude of prayerfulness which Paul describes, our love for Christ and the joy we gain will eclipse anything we have ever known before.

His grace is sufficient

2009-01-05T17:48:00.007-05:00

I had the weirdest dream the night before last. I don't remember all of the details, but I do remember that as I looked around at people they had red marks on their foreheads. One was a cross, I believe, the other was a plus or minus sign. It took me a little while to realize what was going on in the dream. I came to know that the plus sign meant you had been accepted by God into heaven. The minus sign meant you were not, and had work to do...for any chance to happen again. So these marks were just appearing on people's heads like out of the blue. It was within moments of each other. NO one had one, and then it seemed everyone did. I got a little scared when people were not really saying anything to me. I was afraid to go and look and yet I desperately wanted to know if I had gotten the mark. I finally broke down and looked in a mirror. I had the minus sign. I was devastated, and yet I understood why.

I have some work to do. I don't know when we for real are going to be called to go to God. I do know that I want to be ready. I want that PLUS sign!! I cannot afford to live in a way that makes me unsure of which sign I will receive. Being good, or doing good, or trying to make up for something doesn't cut it.

I did some major repenting this morning. I asked Christ to cleanse me and to convict me of all sin in my life. The Bible tells us that His grace is sufficient. It is, but we have to ask for it. We have to ask for Him, and we have to make an honest heartfelt effort of living as a representative for Christ. Right at this moment, I know that I am going to heaven. I want to continue to live my life accordingly. Praise God for the opportunity for me to do just that.

As long as you have breath, it is never too late to ask forgivness, to accept Christ as your own personal saviour, and to be heaven bound. His grace truly is sufficient. All you have to do is ask.

...to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.
Ephesians 1:5-7

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him1John 4:9

do you practice avoidance?

2009-01-02T09:30:00.004-05:00

As I have been studying up a bit on attitude, I have come across some reading on how we, as humans deal with certain situations. The one thing that really stuck out to me the most was the coping skill of avoidance. I don't think I realized how much I do this, until I read all the examples of it...and saw myself clearly in each one! Avoidance is not a true coping skill, it is exactly what the word says a-v-o-i-a-d-a-n-c-e. Not dealing with something is how many of us deal with something. We avoid it.

Avoidance can steal our peace and joy because many of the situations and activities we avoid, in the interest of comfort, that were placed in our lives by God for a purpose. So we end up avoiding the very things we ought to do. A big reason we avoid the situation or activity is due to the anxiety it causes. It makes us uncomfortable. it doesn't matter how much we may want to do it, we far less want the feelings of being uncomfortable, so we just stay away. We never deal with what it is, or we postpone it until it can be avoided no longer...which makes the whole situation 10 times worse. It is this whole fear of the unknown.

Though Jesus taught us to not be anxious, to not worry, to have faith... He does not condemn us for these natural human feelings. We can have them, we cannot let them overtake us. We have to take action against them. Even Jesus sweat blood in anticipation of the cross, but he did not avoid it.

Being anxious and trying to avoid something doesn't mean that you do not have belief or do not have faith. These are normal feelings that have existed since the beginning. However, it doesn't mean that we let these feeling control out lives. We have to let our trust in God control our lives. We have to take action upon the feelings. At times we just have to be obedient and trust God. In James 2, we are told that faith without action is dead. And in Matt 26:41 we are told, The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak". So, it isn't in having these feelings of avoidance or anxiety that we show weakness, it is in our ACTION of disobedience or obedience that we show our strength or weakness.

New Year, New Me!

2008-12-28T19:36:00.004-05:00

The sermon today was about having a "new you" for the New Year. That is something that I desire. My life is great, don't get me wrong, but I know how much better it could be.

As I have grown in my spiritual walk, and matured...I have also found myself becoming complacent. I think a big part of that is how very content I feel with life in general. I don't recall ever feeling so content ever before. It is amazing the peace that God brings into your life. That in itself is not bad, nor do I want to change (not after all of the years searching for it). However, I am just coming to realize that because I do feel so content, I have not been making much of an effort to maintain the relationship that brought me this peace and contentment in the first place. I have found myself instead, having become comfortable.

I think at times it easy to take for granted the good life we have. At first it amazes us and it takes all we have to believe it is real...then, we become accustomed to it and perhaps even expect it.

It is our choice to see what we have as a gift, and to continue to nurture it. It is our choice to just be satisfied and settle into where we are. A big part of that decision is our attitude in general. We take so much for granted. We forget how privileged we are not only hear and now, but in the aspects of eternity. We are a blessed people. Sometimes though, we don't act it. I don't act it.

I woke up the other morning so grumbly and negative. All I wanted was to go back to sleep. I was warm and comfy. The last thing that seemed appealing to me was to get up and get a shower and go to work. It was all in my attitude though. Once I made myself recall how privileged I was to have slept in a bed last night, to have a blanket, a roof... to be able to grab a shower and to not only have a job, but a job that I love. What a stinking attitude to be whining about getting out of bed! Poor me, such a rough life.

That is what I want to be new about me this year. I want to have a great attitude, a positive attitude, a friendly attitude, a prayerful attitude, a blessed attitude, a Godly attitude. Lord, forgive my selfish attitude. I pray that I will be prompted by the Holy Spirit every time I have that type attitude. I pray for it to be replaced by an attitude that is pleasing to you.
1 John 4:4"... because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Forgiveness

2008-12-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

Forgiveness is extending love and mercy to someone who has wronged or hurt you. It is NOT saying that what was done was acceptable, or that it did not matter, but it is a choice to release the person from the burden of guilt for what they have done wrong and not allow that offense to affect your relationship.
Forgiveness is a powerful thing, for both the forgiver and the recipient. It may even be more powerful for the one doing the forgiving... the tension and stress that build in your body from the emotional hurt of someone wronging you (especially if it was someone you loved) wreck havoc on your life. There is not rest. And you know what? The craziness you are putting yourself through is probably doing nothing at all to that person. They probably have no idea how much it is tearing you apart. Maybe they do know, and they don't care. No matter what the situation is, release it. Give it to God, and take his peace instead.
It truly is amazing how much you can just "let go" if you allow God to help you. I might add that true blessings arrive when you then pray for that person. There seriously is a peace that comes to rest upon your soul.
Is this easy? NO, it can be very very hard. So hard that you feel like giving up on everything. I can verify that you are hurting no one, but YOU if you don't even try.
This is where it is crucial too to have others that are praying for you, that keep up with you. Make friends with other believers and be open and honest with them. When you aren't able to carry yourself, someone else can step in the gap and bring you through. They cannot help though, if you aren't up front about your situation. This is NOT the time to try to stand alone. Friends are friends forever...when the Lord is the lord of them.

How Awesome is Prayer

2008-12-27T20:00:00.000-05:00

The last couple of days have been full of mercy and grace! I am feeling very embraced in God's arms. I know people have been praying for us, and praying for my family. I want to thank you so much for that! It is amazing how you can seriously feel the love of God. It becomes so obvious that others are lifting you up.

I have a friend, who not too long ago was involved in a bike accident. She called me and asked for me to pray and for me to contact our church to pray. I did immediately. I spoke with her a few hours later, and she told me how this utter calmness just came over her. She knew that she was being prayed for. She could not believe the load lifted from her. It made a difference in her ability to cope at that moment.

I had never really had that exact feeling, but after the past few days, I have! How awesome to have so many people come together and pray specifically for another. Imagine the difference we could make in others lives by lifting them to God in prayer.

My niece does just this. She has a prayer collage. She has pasted pictures and written names of certain people she is praying for. Some prayers are continual, and some are special request, or circumstances. She prays over the entire thing, praying for each of them. It is pretty awesome. Another thing that I heard someone mention was to create a "prayer date book" You write in certain people's name or names on certain days, and then devote a special prayer to that person on that particular day. Depending on how many people you were praying for specifically, you could have a prayer collage for each day!

If we were all praying for our church leaders, political leaders, our co-workers, our families, our church families, our realtives, our neighbors, a person we don't get along with, a stranger we met in the store.... What a serious difference we could be making! If you are reading this right now, STOP..say a prayer for the first person that comes to your mind. Seriously do it.
We could be doing that hundreds of times a day! Thanks to all of you who have been praying for me. I love you guys!

Authentic Christianity

2008-12-26T12:06:00.000-05:00

Authentic Christianity is the consistency between words and actions~ between claimed values and actual priorities. It is something I strive for, but have a long way to go to reach. I am working on it daily. Some days are better than others.

You have to truly connect with God to be authentic, not just go through the motions. It begins with spiritual authenticity`daily reserved time.

You have time for what you make time for.

Journaling helps to keep track of where you have been and what you are doing. It is like a post game analysis. It helps you to be authentic. Can you be conformed to the image of Christ without evaluating your progress or mistakes? Try writing out your prayers, your thoughts, your feelings, decisions, frustrations.... analyze your day, see where you can improve and where you did great!

The Fallacy of Full-Time Christian Work

2008-12-24T07:33:00.000-05:00

The following is an article by Os Hilman from the Today God is First series

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord,
not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the
Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24).

"I didn't know you were in fulltime Christian work," said my close friend as we were driving. "I didn't realize that," she went on. I responded, "Every person who has followed the will of God in their life is in full-time Christian work." God calls some to the mission field, others to be accountants, others to be advertising executives, and still others to be construction workers. God never made a distinction between sacred and secular. In fact, the Hebrew word avodah is the root word having the same meaning of "work" and "worship." God sees our work as worship. We have incorrectly elevated the role of the Christian worker to be more holy and committed than the person who is serving in a more secular environment. Yet the call to the secular workplace is as important as any other calling. God has to have His people in every sphere of life Otherwise, many would never come to know Him because they would be
separated from society. I learned this lesson personally when I sought to go into "full-time" service as a pastor in my late twenties, only to have God thrust me back into the business world unwillingly. This turned out to be the best thing He could have done for me, because it was never His will for me to be a pastor. He knew I was more suited for the workplace. We are all in missions. Some are
called to foreign lands. Some are called to the jungles of the workplace. Wherever you are called, serve the Lord in that place. Let Him demonstrate
His power through your life so that others might experience Him through you and see your vocation as worship to His glory. He desires to use you in your area
of influence to impact your workplace, city and nation for His glory.

TGIF TODAY GOD IS FIRST
is written by Os Hillman.
To subscribe to his daily email go to:
http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/ or http://www.marketplaceleaders.com/

Prayer pattern of Paul for the Corinthians

2008-12-23T21:30:00.000-05:00

A.C.T.S. A=Adoration, C=Confession, T=Thanksgiving, S=Supplication

In addition to the above listed basics...

1. Ask for understanding of what God wants you to do.
2. Ask for spiritual wisdom.
3. To be honoring and pleasing to God.
4. To produce every kind of good fruit.
5. To learn to know God better and better.
6. To be strengthened with God's glorious power.
7. To have great endurance and patience.
8. To be filled with joy.
9. To give thanks always!

I do not know where I obtained this list.... I just found it jotted in my notebook. I do know however, if you begin incorporating all of this in with your daily prayers....things are going to start happening in your life!

whaddaya mean forgive them?

2008-12-22T15:57:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it is not possible to live in peace with everyone, the problem is not always dependent upon what you do. However, we must make every effort to love a person that seems unlovable..
HOW?? Number one is that you have to forgive that person unconditionally. UNCONDITIONALLY, no strings attached. If you leave strings attached, you are not forgiving. You have to forgive them repeatedly if need be. Perhaps that will be a need on your part as thoughts creep into your head drowning out why you forgave them in the first place!! OR perhaps the person just does not "get it". Whatever the case, that choice is yours.
You have to take action on it; pray about it. Pray for enlightenment and for love for the individual. Ask to love them through Jesus... that may be the only way you can.
You cannot assume this persons' motives. Don't even try, unless they are with the best intentions. When you begin to decide for yourself what the motives are, you have just joined ranks with them. Step above that. Stand up tall.
Ask God to search your own heart as we are told in the scriptures to do. Ask him to search it and to reveal to you areas you may be able to change. Maybe you need more tolerance, patience, forgiveness...
Pray before you enter a stormy situation, pray when you are there, pray when you leave it... If you don't ask for the help, you have a high chance of not getting it. We have total free choice with God, if you chose to do it on your own..well, that is your choice. Don't think about how much it hurts you, think about how much they need forgivness. Don't be an enemy even if you have one.
I am typically very quick to forgive. That has not always been the case. God has been working on me though, and I see how much better it is to forgive and forget than to hold on to something that can eat you alive. I am certainly not encouraging anyone to be blind or ignorant~~certain things, certain people, certain places..are just best to stay away from. But given the opportunity to restore a Godly relationship that has gone astray, I think God would back you all the way! Don't worry about what others think(perhaps their hearts are hardened?), they are not going to be there to answer for you, to take your punishment, or to take your crown when we come face to face with the one whose thoughts truly matter. Do what is right, because it is right, you don't need any other reason. Do you have someone you need to forgive today? Do you have a relationship that needs restored? Pray about it, and don't toss God's reply around. Act on it. They may or may not accept it, you can still refuse to be an enemy. Either way is going to be okay..you do what YOU should and let God handle the rest. love, love, love to all of you!

A Woman's Heart, God's Dwelling Place

2008-10-20T20:50:00.000-04:00

from a past posting...
In my bible study today ( a woman's heart, god's dwelling place by Beth Moore), it asked me about what I deliberately avoid for the sake of purity and how others know that I am set apart to God?

Wow, that is food for thought for me.

I instantly thought..well, I avoid television....
There are so many other things that I should be avoiding though. I should be avoiding gossip in any way, shape, or form. I should be avoiding anything at all that challenges my integrity~ my witness. Many books, magazines, the newspaper, laziness..... This study has made me aware that lots of things challenge the purity and integrity I am called to uphold as I child of God.

Being set apart to God? How do people know that about me? This is an area I have much work to do. If I cannot answer this with a solid statement, do I stand apart? I have been told that you cannot conquer what you tolerate. I am working to ensure that my actions and my comments set me apart. I think it goes back to what I discussed earlier about being authentic. For me, much of my faith is shown in my actions. What does set me apart? It has been said that there is no greater validity to being a Christian than a changed life.

"People remain the same, until the pain of remaining the same outweighs the pain of change."

Is your life pleasing to God?

2008-10-18T18:08:00.003-04:00

1 Thessalonians 4:1 tells us that we should be living a life that is pleasing to God.

That command is so backward of the times today that people treat you like you are totally lost if you are doing something because it is the right thing. You may not feel like it. You may want to do something totally different..
but the truth of the matter is, you need to do what is right.

I think the whole entire campaign of "looking out for number one" has been what has brought this world to its knees. When we seek what self desires, and not what God desires we are going against God and against his commands. This same concept applies when you are attempting do something, you cannot rely upon self. Rely upon God.

By having God with you and drawing upon his strength... you can accomplish much more than you can on your own. God's desire is for us to succeed. He is there to help us and maintain us when the roads get rough. We may think we cannot go another day, put up with another thing... but when we are doing things to please God and not our self, He himself will be the one to carry us through.

Allow him the opportunity to walk with you, to guide you, to carry you when the need arises. It really isn't "all about me" as society would like us to believe. It is all about God, and his desires and living a life that is pleasing and honoring to him. I promise you that living a life that is pleasing to God will bring such a difference to your life, you'll put self away and focus on what is truly important...living a life for eternity.

2008-10-13T07:19:00.003-04:00

I have a desire to share my faith, yet I feel so inadequate to do it. I know that God will give me strength.. that He will give me the words, but even knowing this, I struggle. I don't want to struggle, I want to be a shining light, I want to bring others to the joy I have.

My life has been such a wonderful blessing since I accepted Christ, and quit trying to live "my" way. Why should that be hard to share? I think one of the biggest hurdles for me, is the fear of pushing people away. I don't want to force anything on anyone. I don't believe that it is the way to go about things, nor would God want us to. It goes too far for me though, I worry about making the person feel out of place..uncomfortable. So I just keep quiet, and that is totally wrong as well!

I know before I was a Christian, really the last thing I wanted was to have someone hound me about God and Jesus. I would find myself avoiding these people. Even though I avoided them, I also did want to learn more. I wanted to learn more at my level, not theirs. Where is that middle ground? How do we approach someone we love, in a non-threatening way and share the good news with them? I know I have to do it in love. I know I have to do it in good faith with a willing heart. I have to trust God. I have to talk to God about it, I have to listen to his prompting and act upon it.

I try to live by example, I try to let my actions reveal my heart and my beliefs. I want to be easy to approach. I don't do this perfectly. I pray everyday for God's insight, his wisdom... I asked to be filled with the Holy Spirit and led by it. I don't want to push anyone, yet I don't want to leave anyone behind. I also want to do what God desires of me, and leading others to him is a big responsibility of mine. Where is the middle? How do I do this?

Does anyone else have a desire to share your faith, but you don't know how? Anyone have advice? A book to share? A study to do? Please leave me a comment with some advice. Anonymous post are welcome :-)

TRUTH

2008-10-10T15:25:00.001-04:00

God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

Facts, not feelings

2008-10-06T06:37:00.003-04:00

Good Morning! I was doing some reading on feelings this weekend. Here are some notes from that.

Feelings... how you feel can be a blessing and/or a problem when it comes to spiritual transformation.

Emotions have been describe as "human bondage". Feelings cause us to do what we want to do...to feel good. No one can just resist these feelings on their own willpower. Through strength given by God though, you can master them.

Feelings can be a major deception of the heart. If you are mastered by your feelings, then you believe your feelings must be satisfied. We are not bound to those feelings!! In John 8:34 we are told that the person who allows the Spirit to control their feelings realize not everything has to be filled. The Spirit allows us to do what we don't want, and to not do what we do want.

It isn't about "want" and "feelings" it is about right and wrong. I have seen more than one interview of someone speaking of Obama. The main thing I hear them all say is that Obama makes them feel good. Lots of things can make you feel good... typically those feelings do not last, nor do they hold substance. Feelings come and feelings go, they can be very fleeting. Don't base your future on a feeling... a hunch... I have been told, to never forget, that public opinion is NOT the voice of God. I hope all of you pray about this. Go with what God tells you, not what you feel. Go with facts, look at the history of what someone stands for. It is your responsibility to see where this man stands on issues, on morals, on life..or lack thereof. Do a little research. Don't rely upon commercials, debates, and other's feelings. Learn the truth. Vote on facts, not feelings.

Feelings move us and we enjoy being "moved".

Today's Prayer

2008-10-03T17:09:00.005-04:00

After writing in this last night.. I found true contentment in this prayer I came across today;

Father, Thank you again today for the truth of your word. Lord, I've learned by expericence that hearing your word is not enough. I know I need to act on your word. It's doing what it says that brings results! Lord, don't let me decieve myself today into thinking that I am changed because of what I have read. Let me be changed because of what I do in response to what I have read. Let my home, my place of work and my life this week be filled with contentment.

Lord, I do have enough--- I have you. I have your promises. I have your faithfulness. I have your strength and wisdom to pursue change in the hurtful areas of my life. I know I can trust you with my burdens. Forgive me for thinking that my happiness is in anything external. Help me to embrace the truth that, godliness with contentment is great gain. All that I pray, I pray in the name of Jesus, who is my ulitmate example of true contentment. Amen (by James MacDonald)

There is a plan already made for us.

2008-09-20T09:06:00.003-04:00

Saturday! My first Saturday in I don't know how long, that I have nothing I HAVE to do. I told myself last night I was going to sleep late, hang around and not be worried about anything at all. So I woke up this morning and I tried to just lay in bed and be lazy..snuggle up with my blanket. I turned this way and that way.. I stretched out, I curled up, I laid in the middle of the bed, on my "side" , on Greg's "side"... everything felt totally comfortable, I was all set to do nothing at all. I was looking forward to it!

It just wasn't happening though. No matter how comfy I felt, I kept trying different positions. For some reason, nothing kept me satisfied very long. Nothing seemed to be what I had imagined to be, or desired it to be. Was I going to give up?? NO way! This was the day I had been waiting for! Freedom to do whatever I pleased.

I was lying there thinking how typical this would have been of my past life. Searching and searching for the thing that would make me happy, fulfilled... content. I tried everything. I looked everywhere. I was sure that there was something out there that would make this world what I had imagined it would be like as an adult. The thing is, nothing I tried or did really ever met the cravings I had. Did I give up? NO way! This is what I had been waiting for! Freedom to do whatever I pleased.

God kept trying to play this part in my life. He kept trying to show me a way that would be fulfilling... but I knew more. I knew that there was more to life out there, I just had not found it yet. I ignored Him. I continued on my search and had my own goals. Nothing really changed though. Oh, I could find things that seemed to be what would make me happy. The thing is they were so temporary, and always resulted in unhappiness somehow or another in the end.
When I let all go, all my pre-conceived notions... and I honestly gave God the opportunity to love me, to show me love and happiness, WOW! Things are amazing. Seriously amazing. I learned about loving God. I started falling in love with God, like you would anyone that you have a true connected relationship with. I never realized that I could love God. I knew I was supposed to. How different was this feeling! It spread to other areas of my life. I began seeing things differently. I began seeing how wonderful and fun and awesome life is. I began to understand that you can't always have a plan. Sometimes you have to let the plan have you.

So, reluctantly... I threw the covers aside this morning, and rolled out of bed. I am so glad I did! This is going to be a great day, I have been blessed!

I wanna be a child of the LIGHT

2008-09-17T19:34:00.003-04:00

We have Internet!! Wow, to live back in the day without it... I dunno. I miss the contact I have with people via the net. So, I am back in business here and ready to get writing!!

Another big thanks to all the wonderful people who went out of their way to help us these last couple of weeks! Huge thanks to my sister Carolyn, who packed things, moved things, primed, painted, cleaned..you name it. The girl never stops, puts me to shame time and time again! I love that she has so much energy though! A blessing for me :-)

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.

things keep flowing..even when I stop

2008-09-05T17:46:00.003-04:00

Hello!!!! Only have a quick minute, but wanted to let all of you know that I have not disapeared, just swamped and without much "freetime".

We did get moved with much thanks to some of the best people in the world I know to have a friends, Bill and Teresa Nethery!!! Bill and Greg have devoted many hours to preparing the house for us to move into, a true labor of love!! God has blessed us richly with this friendship!

Thanks too to my family and my kiddos for all of the work on your part. This was truly the easiest move I have experienced. I know it was because of the great level of help from all of you!

Life is going great and my blessing by far outweigh anything else in my life! Praise God for His ever giving love. Continue praying for our church's new prayer ministry. we have gotten wonderful feedback from members. Greater than that, we have personally witnessed God making major moves!!

much love to all! I'll get back to some regular writing here as we get settled in, oh and when we remember to get the Internet connected!!! One of these days.............. No cable or satellite either. I kinda like it like this :-)

Prayer

2008-08-19T21:42:00.000-04:00

Samuel Chadwick on Prayer
Here is a great quote on prayer that was sent to me

"The one concern of the devil is to keep saints from prayer. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, mocks our wisdom, but trembles when we pray." Samuel Chadwick

From Pastor Nate

2008-08-19T21:39:00.000-04:00

"I have been thinking a lot about faith lately. In staff devotions Wednesday we read Hebrews 11:1,2, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction (evidence) of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval." Quite simpy, faith is being sure of what is unseen. We can say we intellectually believe something, but if our life does not match that belief, I believe, we really don't believe that at all. There are many people who go to church, say they have a belief in God, but their lives do not match their beliefs. So do they really believe these things? If faith is the "evidence" or the "conviction" of the things not seen, then faith ought to be seen by our lives because we live them with conviction, evidence of our faith, and assurance. Faith in Christ is not just another activity in our life like, golfing, swimming, or watching TV. Faith in Christ is our life, and this faith needs to be seen IN our lives by our decisions, our character, our choices, our spending,our relationships, our scheduling, and our convictions. I want to be a person that consistently lives my faith. I want Christ to be my life, not a part of my life, or some ideology stuffed in my brain. Our faith in Christ must be our lives!" Pastor Nate

Simple Faith and Plain Truth

2008-08-19T21:19:00.003-04:00

I cannot believe that a week has past since I have written in here! Wow... time flies when you are having fun!!

1 Timothy 2: The Message
Simple Faith and Plain Truth 1-3
The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.

We started a new ministry at our church this past Sunday, called Partners in Prayer. There is a book by the same name written by John Maxwell. I mentioned it on here before and how I would love for our church to do that... Well, a friend of mine and I are going for it! We held a meeting last week regarding our plans, and had pretty good attendance. We got great ideas and input. We went ahead and began the official ministry last Sunday. Things were not necessarily smooth sailing, but I thought they went pretty well considering it was our first Sunday to implement it. We had great participation from people for first and second service. How uplifting to gather in a group and bring your needs before God. There is power in prayer no doubt, I believe it is maximized with great numbers. We still have alot to learn, and much to organize. For now though, we are going with the flow of how God directs us. Please be in prayer for our church as we undertake this.

Complaint-Free Me??

2008-08-12T06:55:00.003-04:00

A friend of mine at work bought us some bracelets that are part of the "complaint free world" campaign. Basically you wear the bracelet, and any time you think negative or complain (including gossiping) you have to move the bracelet to the other hand. Your goal is to make it 21 days without having moved it to the other wrist. That is supposed to help you become more aware of what is coming out of your mouth, and what is residing in your mind!

The first day, I didn't make it 21 minutes, but I think I moved it at least 21 times. The second day I was certainly more aware, though I still moved it quite often. By the third day, it was staying on one arm for greater lengths of time. Today..which is like day 14 or so... I still have not made it an entire day with no complaints, BUT... I only move it on occasion. It has been pretty cool to make yourself realize what you sound like to other people, and to change that behavior. I never considered myself too much of a negative person, yet it appears I could certainly refine that area.

It seems like in this day and age no one can just be happy. To greet someone and not hear something negative from them is almost shocking. How come it is totally kosher to gripe and complain and talk about how tired and broke and blah blah blah you are~~ How much different all of our lives may be if we tried to change that behavior. We have life so easy, and yet we probably complain more than any nation. Make an effort to day to realize what comes out of your mouth. Try building others up, and forget about yourself. Believe it or not, it really and truly is not all about you anyway. (should I move my bracelet?)

Do it !

2008-08-05T05:04:00.002-04:00

I got a new view on life Sunday. It wasn't anything profound that someone said to me, or anything I read... I was about a milli-second from seriously being dead.

I was a blink of an eye from being t-boned. I am most positive, that had I been hit, I would not have survived. The really weird thing though, is that it didn't so much scare me as make me more aware of things. My first thought was that God wasn't finished me with me here yet. It wasn't my time. My second thought was, what am I doing with my time?

It is odd how much we take for granted and assume will be here tomorrow.

Even the grass seemed different to me. I have thought about things like, what if today were your last. BUT, I don't know that I have truly put into my mind the ramifications, if today were my last. It is really different being there than merely thinking it.

We may never get another chance. Today may be our final parting words. It may be our last opportunity to make the world a better place, to bring a smile to someones face...to listen to the birds. To sing, to play , to dance.

MOST importantly, as good as all that sounds..... today may be our last to turn our lives around.

What do you wish you would have done? Do it!

Moving

2008-08-02T15:22:00.003-04:00

hey all! Things are picking up speed up here. We put in an offer on a house a few weeks ago, it was accepted. The appraisal was done last week and all went well! The closing is to be soon, don't know exactly when.. but know it will be in August. It is a fairly small house, still in Bloomington. It is basically a "starter" home, we are calling it our "Re-starter" home. Or perhaps our RE-tirement home, since that is fast approaching ;-) The last several years have been somewhat of a roller coaster for us, but we have climbed the mountain and we aren't looking back! The kids are great, we're great and we are so happy to be blessed by God to have this opportunity.

I have been busy packing while Gregory ties up all the loose ends on the purchase. I guess we just never think we have enough going on in our lives, so we always have to create more to do. It is a "good" busy though.

I love you all, and will write more as time allows. Always know, that you are close to my heart and forever in my prayers. My life has been blessed!

We rise and we fall and we rise again

2008-07-26T18:03:00.004-04:00

"Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me,and lead me into the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24

I saw this scripture today, and just had to STOP. Is this part of what had been going on with me? Have I asked God to do this and then decided that due to my own request, now, He couldn't exist for doing it?

I am told that the desire for a different life doesn't appear out of thin area. You can wait around and long for this, or you can keep company with the One who delivers it. You wouldn't want more of God if the Holy Spirit wasn't seeking/pursing you. And....You know what, I have come to believe that the Spirit starts pursuing you when you start going astray. Sometimes you have to be slapped in the face to get your attention again.

When you find yourself somewhere out there, When nothing seems to be going the right way and you are stuck in this land of frustration.... You have to take this as an opportunity to draw closer. Look at it as an opportunity to grow and learn and become stronger and deeper in your faith. It may not seem like that at first. It may seem completely the opposite. Burning the candle at both ends though can burn out the soul as well as the body. Maybe you need to STOP, take inventory and reconnect. Acts 2:42

Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Mark 10:14

2008-07-21T20:01:00.005-04:00

I have heard this said over and over. For a long time I thought God just liked kids better! I really didn't understand the whole implication of being childlike. I could see the innocence perhaps, but what was it that so made children rank so high with God?

I have been reading a book called "Approaching God" by Steve Brown. It is a book that is basically telling us that prayer isn't some big fancy thing. It is simply communication between a child and his father. In our desire to be a grown up and to fit in to this world, we forget about the child qualities that are so endearing to all. Jesus specifically said that unless we are converted and become like children, we will not enter heaven. What does this mean? I don't know exactly, but I think I have a better picture now.

God is the kind of father everyone wants. He likes to spend time with his children. He cares and he loves us unconditionally. A love that is hard to comprehend at times. Remember this as you go to him. Lay aside your inhibitions, there is no right or wrong way to pray. The heart of the matter is where the importance lies. If you don't know what to say, tell God just that! Don't know where to start? No problem, Tell him that and start in the middle if you want to. It isn't like he doesn't already know...but he still wants you to discuss it with him. Have that childlike faith. Childlike trust.

The following is from the book, Approaching God: "Have that childlike joy.. no matter what happens, there is always joy around the corner! When was the last time you giggled and didn't care what anyone thought? When was the last time you did something "improper" and took joy in it? When was the last time you sang and danced and didn't care if someone thought you lost your mind? When is the last time that you lay in the grass just to look at the sky? What about honesty?, Is there anything so honest as child in just telling it how it is? "

As I read all of this from Steve Brown's book, it began to dawn on me what God means by being a child. Being real, enjoying life, being honest, true to yourself and the joy within you. Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Mark 10:14

Rise Up

2008-07-20T16:17:00.003-04:00

What a beautiful Sunday! The weather is awesome the birds are singing and the wild flowers just look artistic! Our sermon was great today. We have been reviewing the fruits of the spirit. The whole series has been enlightening, but most especially the last three weeks for me. Today was on KINDNESS. Specifically on "How to Treat People with Kindness".

Colossians 3:12 (New International Version)
12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
James 2:8
8If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself,"[a] you are doing right.

Does this not seem it would be easy? On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the hardest, these commands should not be too high up on being able to accomplish them. They take nothing other than the gifts God freely has given us. We don't have to research, go to school, read, nothing... They are just given to us. All we have to do is to receive them. Receive them, and...oh, um... USE THEM! Perhaps we should even go a bit farther than using them, perhaps we should display them. Imagine the difference we could make in this city, in this world of ours if we did clothe ourselves with compassion and kindness..gentleness. What if it exuded from the depths of our souls~

As our pastor told us today, accept everybody. Find something good about them and focus on it. We all have room to grow. We all have faults, we all have strengths. I am not who I was, I am not who I am going to be. Allow the room for growth in everyone. If you have that one particular person that just grates on your nerves... stop right now. Before you do anything else, find a strength in that person. Pray for the person and your ability to focus on the strength. Commit yourself to letting them know about it. Strive to make a connection with them and to love them for who they are. Rise above, reach out and take the gifts that are so freely given.

Baby Jaxson

2008-07-17T19:45:00.004-04:00

I've emailed and called people, but never given any update on here about baby Jaxson... Wanted all of you to know that he is doing awesome! He now weighs 3 lbs 12 oz and has had feeding tubes removed as well as the picc line. He will be moved up to the "big boy" bed any day now!! Appears that they may be shooting for release of late next week. His mom and dad are doing well too! They are bit worn out by the many hospital trips each day, but have hung in there. My mom is there helping out and taking care of their little girl, Kaela while Travis and Sara visit her little brother. I am so thankful mom has had the ability to go and help. It was a lifesaver for all of us! Thanks mom, thanks for showing us what is love is all about. Love truly is the greatest gift of all. Without love nothing else that is worthy can exist. Love not only blesses others, it blesses the one doing the loving.

If you want to spread some love, here is their Address...send them a note and let them be uplifted by your thoughts. Travis and Sara Beckley, 2911A Beacon Beach Road, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida 32403

Whatever You do to the Least of These

2008-07-13T21:49:00.003-04:00

We went and walked for a bit downtown this evening. A young girl, possibly 20, came up to us and asked if we had any extra change. We actually had no money on us at all, just a debit card. I apologetically told her so. She just smiled and walked on. I had never had this happen to me in Bloomington before. I have been to various places and had people approach me for money, but never here in my hometown. Something about her just pulled my heart in. I don't know for sure what it was. She seemed so innocent. She appeared to be pregnant. She was clean and somewhat timid really.

We were actually almost back to our car prior to her asking us. We got in, and I felt sick about it. I felt like it was a chance for me to be Jesus to someone, and I had struck out. We began to drive and I asked Greg if it was wrong of me to not give her anything. We both felt funny about it. We also don't know when we are being taken advantage of and when someone needs help. How do you know this? I got to thinking about how hard that would be to go and ask someone if they had any extra change. a complete stranger. Then I wondered what made her choose us? She had walked by others on her way to us. Did we look more approachable and friendly? Was it my shirt that said, "Spread The Love"? Was I spreading the love? Was God giving me an opportunity to be an angel here on earth, and I just walked right by it? How do you know what is right?

We had planned on getting a bite to eat, but by this point I could not eat. It just seemed wrong. The rest of the way home I prayed about it. We pulled into our driveway and I really felt like God was telling me to go in and grab some money and take it to her, to help her...but to also tell her about Him. I conveyed this Greg and he was fine with that.

I had ordered some booklets awhile back that have the Gospel of John in them. They are real small, decorative, and easy to read. I grabbed one of those as well, and headed back to the car. I drove to where we had seen her, but I couldn't find her. I circled back around, no luck. I felt the need to do it one more time. I did, and I saw her. I went back around the block, I pulled the car over, and got out. I walked up to her and talked a little, handed her the book and the money. She seemed shocked that I came back. She smiled. As I turned to leave, she said "Bless You". I wanted to hug her, but I didn't. I didn't want to freak her out.

It was done, I had already been blessed. My heart felt right again. So did God put this person in my path? Did I make a difference to her? Did I help her, Did I hinder her? Will she read the book? Did she hear the words I said? I don't know. I don't know at all. What I do know is that I have peace about reaching out and trying to be Jesus. I think that is what we are to do. I will pray for her and I know that will do her more good that all the money in the world. I may go back later this week and see if I see her again. Ask if she had a chance to read the book... Be praying about that encounter for me.

who's got your back?

2008-07-12T15:45:00.004-04:00

When you give Satan the stronghold, he takes it. I realize now that is exactly what I did last week. It had been coming up, weeks had been spent working on this. He had slowly been sabotaging my faith...I just didn't realize it. I didn't realize it until this morning actually! I was listening to Spirit 95 on the radio. I am not sure who was talking, but they began speaking about how Satan attacks. It was pretty interesting to listen to.

They also explained how when Satan is close to pulling it off, he pours it on hard, doing all he can to make you lose your faith..and when he realizes that you are NOT giving up on God, he backs off. Satan has no desire to wrestle with God. He has been defeated through Christ. When he sees where your alliance truly is and where you are gaining your power from he goes away. He waits to come back during another moment of weakness in your life. This is exactly why you have to be on top of your game. You have got to have all of your resources in place, and you have got to be prepared to battle. You never know when the battle may occur. You have GOT to be in the word. You have GOT to keep that daily time speaking to God. You have GOT to have prayer partners...other Christians willing to watch your back.

After I heard that on the radio this morning. I just had to smile and thank God for placing people in my life that were willing to watch my back. I thought about how I had felt last week. How I felt in the last few weeks before it all came to head. It is amazing to me how different I feel today. How different this entire week had been. I GOT my joy back. What can me more awesome than that?

Pursuit

2008-07-08T18:29:00.003-04:00

I am thankful that God does pursue us, even when we aren't pursuing him! His cleverness never ceases to amazes me.

I felt so prompted Sunday to go to the altar, to go for prayer... and yet I felt glued to my spot. People in our church don't go forward too much. Seems we tend to keep our hurts amongst ourselves. The really funny thing is, I had no desire to even go to church this week (nor the last couple of weeks). I just "happened" to wake up without my alarm going off, and I just "happened" to attend a service that talked about peace in our lives, and I just "happened" to have my heart repaired.

So yeah, as they were singing that last song, I had a small battle within my own soul. I was certain that the Spirit was prompting me to go forward and yet my flesh was holding me back. I kept thinking, people don't do this in our church... Suddenly it was more than just me in control and I did find myself going forward. One of the elders came with me and prayed with me. I didn't even know what to say to him, " I think I've lost my faith?" "Does God really exist?" How do you tell someone rooted in their faith that you are feeling like faith is a joke right now? I just told him the best I could at the time, and you know what? He understood. He listened, he encouraged me, he told me of his own valleys, he prayed with me, he invited me to call on him or anyone else there..to not make myself try to handle it on my own. He told me it was ok to question God. It was ok to not understand. We prayed, we hugged..and I was touched by God.

Today, I feel 500 times better. I know that there have been people praying for me, for me specifically. God has lifted the hurt from my heart. I cannot even explain the difference within me. Had these people not been so willing to intercede for me, I don't know what might be happening today. I am blessed to have God in my life and have Godly people willing to sacrifice for me. Sometimes you go through the fire and you are tougher and stronger because of it. And you know what? If I feel like going to the front for prayer, I AM GOING, cause I know that sharing our burdens and praying for one and another work!

Be still and know that I am God Pslams 46:10

2008-07-07T17:56:00.006-04:00

1 Corinthians 13:12 "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully know."

There are times when circumstances don't add up. There are times when things don't make sense. This is the Christian life no one tells you about, so you may not realize it exist. It does exist, for a purpose we may not know just yet. Don't allow it to let you fall flat on your face. Remember what He tells us in Romans 8:28, "...works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Isaiah 41:10 tells us that "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

I have found myself letting my thoughts wither my spirit. I have been filled with confusion. "If only it all made sense.." I tell myself. Then maybe I could bear the results.
I have found myself disillusioned with God. The thing is, God hasn't changed. He has proven himself over and over again. I lost my connection and allowed myself to think He didn't care, that suddenly he was some other God.
I put expectations on God, unrealistic and unfounded expectations. Perhaps this has been a test of my faith, though I don't feel that God would just single me out and punish me... sometimes our faith does need refined.

Faith has been defined as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. I have not been cut from the vine, I have located the peace within my soul and I will keep the faith. God is faithful. One day we will see clearly. One day we will all be accountable for this life we live. Psalms 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

Sometimes I forget this...

2008-07-06T21:17:00.005-04:00

Philippians 4:6 (New International Version)
6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6 (Amplified Bible)
6Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition ([a]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.

Philippians 4:6 (New King James Version)
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

Philippians 4:6 (Worldwide English (New Testament))
6Do not worry about anything. Talk to God about everything. Thank him for what you have. Ask him for what you need.

Lately my heart has been hurting over various things. Instead of taking these hurts to God and seeking peace and healing...instead of giving thanksgiving... instead of trusting that God does know what is best~ I have taken it upon myself to make those decisions and assumptions.

It really isn't working out too well for me. We make the choice of what leads us. It can be the Holy Spirit, or it can be the flesh. Sometimes you have to struggle, you have to endure and respond with love, as Christ would. Wrestling with God causes upheavel, not peace. I don't want to wrestle anymore. I am ready to lay flat out on my back, shoulders down, pinned to His will. Sometimes it is so hard to just surrender and have faith.

Super Summer

2008-06-17T18:58:00.003-04:00

Ok, obviously the summer is not a good time to try and keep up on my journaling!! There is just so much going on that I have hadto limit myself somewhat to what I can make the time to do and what I can't. I have been doing quite a bit of reading lately, so that has replaced my journaling somewhat for now. I have needed that time to just get back to where I was. Things are going great!! I could never be as good as I should, but by God's great grace I am certainly in a much better spot that a few weeks ago!

One book that I have been reading lately is called "Partners in Prayer" by John Maxwell. It is very good! I love the whole concept of praying for others.. his concept makes me think much of how emmaus works. You basically form groups in your church that commit to pray for the church, the leaders, the body, the property... This takes place while sermons are going on, prior to sermons, during the week, special events, day to day events. Groups can get together and use the church directory and pray over various families are certain times. People can be assigned to pray over certain rows or pews, or sections. It is just so cool. He give a great background for it, tells how to get things started, tells about results places have had...and, well... YES, I want to do this at our church!

I talked to our pastor about it and he said it sounded good. When I asked him who should lead it, he said, "whomever God lays it on their heart to do so." I am praying about it right now!!

Is God laying it on my heart? How do you know for sure when God is directing you? I struggle with this at times. Any help out there?

Sunday during the service, odds and ends of people were coming to my mind as people to ask about getting a core group together. Was God giving me these names? I came up with about ten very strong names that were etched in my mind. Sometimes I do want God to just speak to me like he did Abraham and tell me what to do! Then I think, well... He gave you the book, the interest, the heart, the people to ask........what more do you want from Him?? Guidance please

"connecting" to God

2008-06-04T19:50:00.003-04:00

I have basically been living life on my own lately, like totally on my own. Though God desires to be a part, I have kept myself secluded from him for about two weeks now. I don't know why. I do know how though, I lost my "connection".

I read a story last night about this guy that couldn't get his car to start. Ended up that the battery cable connections were totally corroded. The junk causing the corrison was blocking the ability of the power to reach the battery.
There virtually was no connection.

This same thing happens to us sometimes. We don't even realize that this corrosion is building. It can be a slow process, it can be a fast process. Nothing even has to be in the way of the connection, we just don't use it, so we lose it. Our connection is lost, and the power just doesn't come through. All we have to do is clear the path. The power is there waiting to be tapped into. Sometimes you don't even realize that the corrosion is occurring. Then one day you realize that something in your life is missing. You don't have that same spark you did. You lose touch~ you slow your Bible reading, you quit praying.... you lose your connection.

I lost my connection. I never lost my faith, but I lost my close realtionship. I am thankful to God that I have the connection back now. He knew just what I needed, at just the right time. I am so thankful that He continues to pursue me, even when I don't keep in touch. Thanks God for putting the people and circumstances in my life that drive me to you. I love you!

sometimes things just move me

2008-05-28T22:19:00.001-04:00

WOW

2008-05-25T19:34:00.001-04:00

random

2008-05-23T18:02:00.002-04:00

So, life has been busy! summer is coming upon which always makes things a little haywire in our lives. I love the summer it is just jammed packed with things to do..this is a good thing... just less time to blog...

Things are going awesome with my new job. I LOVE it! I am so grateful to God for the opportunity. How totally cool it is to go to work with a smile on my face, be thre all day with a smile on my face, leave with a smile on my face ! The day just flies by. I work with wonderful people ! It is so nice to be surrounded with friendliness! :-)

I am having to do quite a bit of "extra" learning to get all my ducks in a row. So my evenings have been cram packed. As things fall more into place, I will have more time to post.

Awesome

2008-05-18T20:18:00.000-04:00

Our God is an Awesome God indeed!

Somebody is Praying for You

2008-05-08T09:05:00.003-04:00

I read this (below) this morning, and had to smile... how thankful I am that others have loved me enough to pray for me! Never under estimate the power of intercessory prayer!!

www.StreamingFaith.com

May 08, 2008

Somebody is Praying for You

by Bishop Keith Butler

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Romans 12:3 (KJV)

We need to give credit where credit is due. You may be very blessed. And if you are, know this: it is not you that caused it. You are blessed because God blessed you. That is the opinion you ought to have of yourself. Realize that your blessings did not start and end with you. They started and ended with God. Somebody has been praying for you, and it was their prayers that brought you through.

The way God does things sometimes astonishes me. With God, it does not matter how much you learned in school. It does not matter how good you can scheme and maneuver the business deal. It does not matter how eloquent your speech is. That is not what's putting you over. What's putting you over is that God has blessed you in spite of yourself. Somebody who has gone on before you prayed for you to be blessed.

Some of us had mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers that prayed for God's mercy to be extended toward us. Some of us are still living off the prayers and blessings of great-grandparents that we have never even met.
To think soberly is being aware that God has somebody praying for you right now in the midnight hour. They are praying and interceding for you so that mercy could come your way. So, when you fall down and hit your face on the pavement of life, God has somebody praying for you.
When you keep everything in proper perspective, you can think soberly, understanding that God and only God gets the glory for all the good in your life. God is good all the time.
Give glory to His holy name!

Scripture Reference: Romans 13:7; Matthew 22:21

Make it a Goal..to Ensure Eternal Life

2008-05-06T00:18:00.005-04:00

HI ! I arrived yesterday in Tuscon, it is awesome, beautiful, cool (like "neato" cool, not cool cool),.... We have been very busy learning, learning, learning!! Not alot of down time, and not very good wireless access so far. Bear with me if this cuts me off in mid post!!
I posted an email below that I received from my nephew and niece. I would appreciate you guys reading it and praying for them and considering to assist financially in any way God leads you.

I finally got to attend my church yesterday! I was so glad! I enjoyed the church I went to with my mother -in-law while she was unable to drive, but it just isn't the same as fellowship with people you have made relationships with at your home church...people you have prayed with, prayed for, and who have prayed for you. I have had a great time visiting Owen Valley Christian Fellowship! I loved there services! I hope to implement some of their style into our own services. I loved how friendly everyone was & seeing the many smiling faces. I'll have to say that if I did not have a home church, I would certainly attend there! I am glad to be back "home" again :-)

One thing this past Sunday that really stood out in my mind that our pastor talked about was, ( not quoting.. just summing it up) when I see what extremes people will go to, to ensure they have more time left here on this earth in their earthly body~ what they sacrifice for a life that will end in a few years no matter what... I wonder what they will do to ensure that they are going to eternity? He talked about the guy that broke and cut off his own arm to ensure escape from being trapped under a boulder. How hard it was, yet necessary to ensure that life did not end there on that mountain top.

What would you do to ensure your life eternal? Are you doing it, are you thinking about it, are you acting upon it?

Billy and Karen (my nephew and niece)

2008-05-06T00:14:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends & Family,
We’re honored to be able to share with you a very special project that God has put on our hearts. In about one month from now, May 14 – May 20, 2008, we will be serving as short term missionaries in Titanyen, Haiti with Bedford Christian Community.

First and foremost, we need some diligent, persistent prayer partners! If you remember to do nothing else on our behalf, please remember to pray! This is so vital as we begin making preparations for our trip and then when we actually arrive on site. Please add us to your daily prayer list!

Once we arrive we will be working with Mission of Hope to put a roof on their food storage warehouse and roofs on one of the new homes that will house 240 orphans when complete. In these homes, the children will live with a mommy and be nurtured with the love of Christ. This will be an awesome opportunity for us to grow in our relationship with Christ and capture the vision of the love our Father has for the entire world.

The following is a list of statistics for the country of Haiti as of this date:
▪ 82,500 people live in a five mile radius of Mission of Hope

▪ 40% of children will never go to school in this area

▪ 45% will go to only grade 6

▪ 15% will go to high school

▪ only 2% will finish high school

▪ 1 out of 5 children will die before age five

▪ there are 610,000 orphans in Haiti, 400,000 are without homes today

▪ $1 a day will educate a child at Mission of Hope

In addition to prayer, we need financial support to make this experience possible. The trip cost is approximately $1600 for both of us, which is due immediately. This opportunity came about very quickly, we’re sorry for the short notice. We ask that you pray about it and please know that no amount is too little. If you are able to help financially, please send a check following the example below.

God Bless, Billy & Karen

Pay to the Order of Bedford Christian Community $ Dollars

memo note on bottom of check:
For Haiti 5-08: and (who you are sponsoring)

Something Different

2008-05-02T07:57:00.004-04:00

I was trying to find a new layout for my blog..and in the long run ended up moving some postings around.... sorry for that! I just wasn't up to going back and fixing it all.

I am leaving Sunday afternoon for the first round of training for my new job. We will be going to Tuscon, Arizona. I will be back very late on Friday. I am supposed to be able to take my laptop and to get Internet access there, so hopefully I can post a better update then. I pray God's continued blessings over each of you reading this, and I pray for all of us to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we go out into the world. Remember that Christ is counting on YOU and you may be the only Jesus someone else sees! xoxo M

The Veil

2008-05-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

In our women's study we have been learning intimately about the tabernacle. I would have never really thought in a million years it would keep my interest. I stand here today and tell you (ok, sit and type), It has been amazing! I am sure that much of it has to do with Beth Moore and her ability to just pull me in. I am also sure that having my mind open to learning and understanding the word has benefited me greatly! But WOW! I love being able to see & connect all these things in the bible now and have much more clarity about them. The veil~ I never thought much of the word...something a bride wears, right? The significance of what I have learned of the veil will enable me to never look at that word the same again.

I was reading II Corinthians today, and it mentions the veil quite a bit. A veil is clearly a separation (from what I have learned in my study). II Corinthians talks about our hearts being covered with a veil.. our minds being covered with a veil. I think the people in Corinth were set so much on the LAW, they made it hard to remove the veil. They were so caught up in the law, they forgot all about the unveiling (Christ death), they forgot about grace and the one who came so that we might receive it. God wants our hearts and minds to be unveiled... and to bask in His glory.

ddddddddddSoak it in, radiate it out.

We have got to keep pressing on toward better behavior, no doubt.... I think Paul is clearly telling us to stop being "religious" and "legalistic". Remove the veil, remove the condemnation~ The veil is torn~ from top to bottom, He wants us to enter in just as we are. We must be unveiled to begin this relationship and to maintain it. You cannot veil yourself from God. Just be you. Don't make things complicated, keep it simple. Keep it true. When the veil is gone, that is when you will really see God and the grace of God. Yep, the new testament really is the old testament revealed... Beth Moore is right again!

my purpose????

2008-05-01T11:58:00.000-04:00

It has been almost two years ago now that I embarked upon this journey of figuring out "what my purpose is". I had heard a lot about it...but never bothered to venture out and figure it out for myself. I was brand new to having a relationship with God. Though I had been a "Christian" for twenty something years.... I had never given it all over and truly invited Jesus into my heart. I was just going through the motions before~~ It had been suggested to me to start a prayer journal to help me visualize what God's purpose was for me, and for me to thus...discover my life purpose. I plan to post those beginning conversations here as I get this blog up and running.

I never really attended church a a child. I knew and believed there was a heaven, a mighty God...but as far as His love for me... a personal relationship with Christ, the sacrifice made..... I had no clue.

Thankfully, God does not care about what has happened in my past, or my lack of knowledge to His word. He has pursued me, for me....and that was His only motive. He has been following me around all my life... just waiting for me to grab ahold! Many obstacles have been in my way, most self imposed. I think the biggest obstacle though, for me was just surrendering. Right where I was in my life, with all my bad habits ~ It took me a long time to realize that I could never be what I was designed to be by trying to do it all on my own. Having taken God on as my partner...my lifeline, it is all falling into place. It is so much easier too. Instead of allowing the obstacles to put up roadblocks that stop me, I am able to climb over the obstacles, and reach the other side.

A process....

2008-04-29T12:19:00.000-04:00

I was baptized nearly 20 years ago. That saddens me. It saddens me because I realize now that I did it out of a legalism thing, instead of out of my heart. It was what I was supposed to do.

I went to church regularly during that time of my life, but I never had a relationship with Christ. I never even knew there was any difference in going to church, and having a relationship. I know now that LOTS of people go to church, not half as many have a relationship .... I was one of them, for a long time. I eventually quit going to church (probably due to lack of relationship). The really scary saddest part of all is that I taught Sunday school... I helped with the youth, I taught at vacation bible school. I went to church Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday night.... Yet I knew nothing. NOTHING. I was not a Christian in the Bible sense of the word. I was a Christian in the worldly sense of the word...if that makes sense. The honest truth is, I had no idea I was a "fake".

If you knew me then, forgive me for making claims I knew nothing about. Forgive me for being such a poor example. I was doing the best I could with what knowledge I had. Thank God that He lingered around me...He never gave up. He is revealing himself and His word to me continuously. It is a process. I am loving the trip!

Refresh and Renew

2008-04-28T21:58:00.000-04:00

In Epshesian 4:23 we read that we are to be constantly renewed in the spirits of our minds, having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude. Attitudes begin in our minds. Our minds are renewed by the word of God, and by rest.

If reading the word daily renews our minds and changes our attitudes, then why aren't we making more effort to do it? I can start out having the best of intentions, and then the next thing I know it is time for something else....so again I put "refreshing my mind" on the back burner. This keeps happening and happening through the day, until I realize that I am not my usual happy self. My prayers don't seem to "connect". I feel a million miles away from God, when last week I felt like His best friend.

Who do you think moved?

We cannot and will not stay refreshed and renewed if we do not make an effort to do it. He is speaking to us through His word. Pray for your mind to be opened and renewed prior to opening His word. Allow the Spirit to convict you of this and then act upon it. Reading for ten minutes, is better than not reading at all.

Set aside the time. Schedule it if you have to! Don't let other things bump it out. It is crucial and is going to affect all other aspects of your life. Things will actually go much better once you ahve the routine down! You will be amazed how much better your attitude will become when it is freshened up with words from God.

Our pastor told us this weekend that God specifically set a day aside for us to rest. He did this with a purpose. We NEED that time. We need to renew our bodies. We need to rest and refresh! You cannot go,go,go...and keep going. Your body will just eventually stop being able to "go". Our minds are the same way. "Plug in" to the word and get recharged. It is sort of like one of those super chargers.... a little charge goes a long way. Just remember to do it again, and don't ever let the charge go out all the way.

"Super Dishwasher Girl"

2008-04-28T16:23:00.006-04:00

Wow, how amazing to get to be on the other end of Emmaus. I had no idea the work and the planning and the endless hours that go into...and that people PAY to do it! The crazy thing is, I WANNA WORK AGAIN! To see lives touched in such a special way, to experience the love, the bonding... to see those faces so unsure on Thursday evening and then so full of joy of Sunday evening WOW, nothing is worth more than that. Absolutely nothing. To hear their brief testimonies at the end, to see the ear to ear smile........ Our God is truly an Awesome God!

I was able to get to know some really awesome fellow Emmaus community members, we had a blast each day! The hours we put in were long and exhausting, but still I felt renewing each day. Even though my tibia bones felt they were going to exit the heels of my feet each night as I lie in bed .. I went to bed happy, joyful, and full of the Spirit! I had awesome bunkies and I laughed more than I did anything else. Below is a picture that Peggy (one of my bunkies) took of me being ..

"Super Dishwasher Girl"

The look on my face cracks me up

more later , God Bless You All! xoxo

The song that sees me through

2008-04-27T22:34:00.000-04:00

I finally found a clip of this music to post. Click on the link below the words to this song to listen to the clip.
What a Faithful God by Robert Critchley

Lord, I come before Your throne of grace. I find rest in Your presence, and fullness of Joy.
In worship and wonder, I behold Your face. Singing what a faithful God have I

What a faithful God have I, What a faithful God What a faithful God have I, Faithful in every way.

Lord of mercy, You have heard my cry. Through the Storm You're the beacon, My song in the night In the shelter of Your wings Hear my hearts reply, Singing what a faithful God have I

What a faithful God have I, What a faithful God. What a faithful God have I, Faithful in every way.

Lord, all sovereign Granting peace from heaven. Let me comfort those who suffer, With the comfort You have given. I will tell of Your great love For as long as I live.. Singing what a faithful God have I.

What a faithful God have I, What a faithful God. What a faithful God have I, Faithful in every way.
What a faithful God have I, what a faithful God. What a faithful God....

http://www.wildox.ca/2002/mp3s/critchley/bt/02-WhatAFaithfulGod.mp3

Come to know His love

2008-04-24T07:06:00.003-04:00

Good Morning! I hope your day is awesome and your load is light! I am so looking forward to the next several days of working on the Emmaus Walk. I cannot wait to see lives transformed. It seriously is amazing. Please be praying that God is with each person there and that all get maximum benefits from the time we will spend together.
Ephesians 3:19 Amplified Bible
19[That you may really come] to know [practically, [a]through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses [b]mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] [c]unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and [d]become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!

I am so thankful for each and every one of you :-) My life has been blessed beyond belief. It is amazing to me that the love I feel for my family, my friends....but, it is nothing compared to the love Christ has for each of us. The Bible tells us His love surpasses all understanding, When I think about how much love I have within me, it is too much to even fathom the love of Christ. I guess that is why I feel this overwhelming joy withing my soul... there is just too much love there to do nothing! It is like that song~ I wanna sing, I wanna shout... praise the Lord da da da da.. da da da da.. praise the Lord!! All you have to do is let Him in, take a little time to become acquainted and allow His love to come to you and in turn pour out of you. Adios Amigos..until Sunday xoxo Michelle

Update from Logan and Amber from Speaking Out Ministries
Dear Friends,
I just wanted to share a quick update with you. Today Logan and I received some more finances and we are now only $500 away from our goal for our trip to China this summer! This is an incredible miracle and we appreciate all of you who have been praying and supporting us. Please e-mail us with any prayer requests that you have!

With Love in Christ,
Amber

Ephesians 3:19
19[That you may really come] to know [practically, [a]through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses [b]mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] [c]unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and [d]become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!

the weekend whizzed by!

2008-04-21T06:15:00.003-04:00

Hello! This weekend has been action packed! Can it truly be Monday morning already??

God blessed me this weekend with not only being able to spend time with my mom and sisters and extended family... but to also give support for cancer research by particpating in the "Walk for Cure" activities on Saturday. Though it was fairly cold and raining, many were there proudly honoring and lifting loved ones affected by this disease.

We all walked in memory and honor of my grandma, Virginia Mattingly. Grandma went to be with the Lord 23 years ago this June. I feel sad that I did not have an opportunity to know her as an adult, but am thankful that I do have many memories of her throughout my life. Some are hilarious and some are sad. I am blessed with all of them and that her life can live on through me. Thanks Grandma !

I also helped to sponsor a friend to go on the Emmaus walk this weekend, so things were pretty busy with that as well. God is amazing how He works everything out! How uplifting to spend the closing ceremony with so many awesome fellow believers! We heard testimony after testimony of how God performed his awesomeness in their lives. It was a great weekend indeed! I am off to work for two days, then headed to Camp Indi-Co-So to work my first Emmaus! If I don't talk to anyone before that, will be back next Sunday night. xoxo Michelle

The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.

2008-04-16T20:41:00.003-04:00

"The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing."

I read that today, written by Joyce Myers, and couldn't agree more! Sometimes it is so hard to keep our priorities in order. Society constantly is badgering us to keep up with the Jones', in reality all we have to do is seek His kingdom, and all else will be given to us.

Matthew 6:33"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

We are so busy trying to keep up to par with everyone else, that we forget the fact that God has promised us to take care of everything if we seek Him first. I am so amazed how my life is flowing without me doing anything other than what I am supposed to be doing according to the Word. I think about how when I was trying to make my life great, to be happy, to keep up... I was self serving, and it never brought me the satisfaction that was promised. NOW, I try to seek self last (key word, TRY) and seek God's kingdom first... and TA-DA .... my life is going along just marvelous! It is funny too how quickly God will remind me of that when I begin to go astray.

I am not saying that I don't have any trials, or nothing bad happens. That is not the case at all. However, when these things happen, I don't fall apart and get freaked out. I know that everything does have a purpose, and my life is not going to abruptly stop if an issue arises. I still have my inner joy, I don't crumble.... I pray to the one who has promised to care for me, comfort me, and never abandon me.

See Psalms 37:4

Blessings keep pouring my way!

2008-04-16T19:04:00.001-04:00

I GOT THE JOB!

YIPPPPPPPPPPEEEEEEEEEEEE

request

2008-04-15T08:28:00.003-04:00

The last couple of weeks have been a real blessing and yet very time consuming for me... I am working on an emmaus team this year, and it has certainly been wonderful, but much time is required. Our weekend to work is next weekend. I can't wait!!!! If anyone has questions about Emmaus, please let me know. They are held in the spring and fall, so even though it is too late for this one, you can certainly get in for the fall walk.

I am feeling much much better. Still have the "rash" but am feeling great, and much of the rash is disapearing! Praise God for a quick healing. The average is for it to last 6 weeks, it has only been 2 weeks for me!

Please be in prayer for me and a job that I am being considered for right now. It is big step up for me, and I want it if God wants me to have it. Please pray that it is revealed to me what God desires, and also that if it is not offered to me that I realize God is in control no matter! love you guys! M

Sometimes I Forget to be Thankful! please forgive me.

2008-04-13T08:26:00.008-04:00

Good Sunday Morning!

I was privileged to participate in a "prayer meeting" last night, where I saw lives transformed. I saw outright gratefulness and awe and people become real. I love to partake in things like this, as it renews my own soul...seeing them so overtaken with God's love. There is just nothing better than to be with a community of fellow believers, to sing together and pray together...to break bread together! I love the bond it forms between complete strangers.

Sometimes as we go along in this life, and things get sort of mundane... I think we forget (or at least I do) how awesome God's love is. We forget how it feels to be totally wrapped up in it! We forget to seriously count our blessing and be truly thankful.

After arriving home last night, as my mind replayed the evening, it hit me how truly blessed I am. I was sitting there thinking about all my blessings, and it was overwhelming! Not only did God sacrifice His only son, for my redemption..He did it with no strings attached. He loves me and wants the very best for me. I have done nothing to deserve this. In truth, I am unworthy.

As I reflected on this, things just came pouring to me... the extreme amount of blessings I have been given personally. All I could think was WOW, WOW, wow! Who am I to receive all of this?

It is easy to get caught up in the little things of life that annoy us. It is so easy to get upset with someone, to have a negative attitude, to lose sight of what is truly important... Really, we don't even deserve the things that are given to us freely. We take them for granted. We complain about our jobs, our kids, the TV is broken, the car won't start... Instead of embracing what God has laid at our feet, we whine about it. We are like an ungrateful five year old that doesn't like the present you got him. The thing is, we aren't five...and we don't even have a reason to have the present given. Yet, we forget to be thankful. To be grateful. Not one of us can claim a bigger sacrifice given than our Creator... and yet, He just keeps giving. Amazing~

Write out your blessings today. Take the time to realize your blessings and to be truly thankful for them. Even the water that comes out the spout is a blessing.

Speaking Out Ministries

2008-04-10T17:42:00.005-04:00

A note (see below) from Amber and Logan at Speaking Out Ministries. I highly recommend supporting them!! Every dollar counts, Thanks!

(For those that don't know, this couple is planning mission work in China. They will be going on a "trial run" this summer. China is in desperate need of people to be willing to share the gospel. Their government is quite opposed to Christianity.)

Dear Friends,

Logan and I wanted to write you all and share with you the joy that we have today. We were able to purchase our airplane tickets! Praise God!!! We want to thank all of you who have helped us get this far. We are still needing $3,000 for in country ministry, language studies, and food while we are there. Once again thank you for your prayers and our support, we would not be here without you. Please check out our website http://www.speakingoutministries.com/ for more information.

****If you would like to help support us please make checks payable to Logan Parker and mail them to:

Logan Parker
5604 E 71st place #907
Tulsa, OK 74136

creative writing assignment...

2008-04-09T20:41:00.000-04:00

This is a letter I wrote while doing some "creative writing" . I was supposed to be writing an essay about having died.... what would I have wanted to tell those I left behind.
I thought this blog and would be a perfect avenue to tell you all right NOW, what I would have wished I had said before departing.

To my wonderful family and friends,
I know where I am going and for this I am glad. So many people have had direct influence on my ability to reach the ultimate destination. The one that sealed my eternity though, was Jesus.

Many of you know Him, many of you know OF Him. I am imploring with all of you to make it your top priority to develop a relationship with Him. Don’t wait until you die to learn how you should have lived. As Jim Elliott said, “He is no fool, who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.”

I spent so much of my life being afraid of what others would think or say… of being ridiculed. There is nothing anyone can say or do that will affect your life more than accepting Jesus as your own personal savior. Now, from beyond, let me tell you how thankful I am that God never gives up on us. He holds nothing against us. Once we confess our sin and ask for forgiveness, it is done! You have nothing to prove to God. He already knows all you have done… good and bad. There is no hiding, no amount of wrong doing. No sin is great enough that would turn his back on you. Sin is sin, a lie, speeding, cheating, and even taking a life. They hold the same weight in God’s eye. To have you in his fold though, that is more important to Him than anything.

The bible, God’s word tells us of amazing things yet to come. We have only been exposed to a small fraction of what truly awaits us. Don’t risk not getting to enjoy it all. Don’t sacrifice your soul for earthly pleasures. I want to see you again. I want to laugh and touch your arm, see your smile.. I want to share a life with you where there are no deadlines, no worries, and no pain.

There is so much I need to say, so much I want you to know. But there is nothing more crucial I can share with you than to open your bible, read God’s word, pray…and ask Jesus into your heart. Confess your sins, ALLOW them to be forgiven, accept your eternal life. Continue this relationship regardless of anything else.

Not sure how to maintain it? Do it just like any other relationship. God wants nothing more from you than you would want out of a relationship. No one knows how long they are going to remain alive here on earth. Ask God for the strength and wisdom to help you live wisely. Seek His will; be convicted through His spirit of your sins…..

Keep your eye on the prize and be ready upon leaving this earth to hear your heavenly father say, “Well done my good and faithful servant, come in…come in!”

Ask for Living Water

2008-04-09T18:54:00.005-04:00

I listened to an audio CD of one of Max Lucado's books today, Come Thirsty. I had a long drive, and cannot stand to be doing nothing at all, so I popped it in.

Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." John 4: 10

He speaks much of Jesus being the living water... about how God promised to give us His Spirit to dwell within us like living water, when Jesus was gone. It just all clicked to me today when Max was talking about how flood waters can carry a house miles away,,, and yet they are nothing compared to the water we have. He talked about how you don't have to tell water where to go, you just drink it, and it goes to where the body needs it ~ The same is true for living water, but just like tap water.. we have to drink it, sometimes gulp it. Our physical bodies have a way of making us know they are thirsty. Our mouth gets dry, our tongue feels thick our skin gets dry, we get circles around our eyes......

Our spiritual body gives us those same indicators when we need a drink of Living water. We don't feel the joy, we feel lazy, we get irritated easily, we have a bad attitude... We need to take a drink of His water, and allow it to quench our thirst.

Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life

Max goes on to say that even though we may be standing in a river, we can still thirst to death if we don't scoop the water up to our mouths to drink it. The same is true spiritually. We can study, we can go to church, we can listen to christian radio....... it will do nothing for us if we don't take it in. How are we do this? Just ask. Ask to filled with the Living water, the Holy Spirit. We are promised by God that if we ask, He will give it. We have to be open to accept it.

Everyday, before your feet hit the floor, ask Him to be filled with His Spirit, His water...then stay in it all day, let it flow through you and guide you in all you do. Soon you will be like that house, just floating along without a ounce of effort...as God works through you.

Jeremiah 17:13 O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the LORD, the spring of living water

It really is this simple :-)

2008-04-06T15:33:00.000-04:00

Look INside

2008-04-05T14:32:00.004-04:00

WOW, we went to look at this house today... small home in the country, a creek runs through the property. No neighbors in view...woods behind the property. Looked nice. Looked cozy. Nice new windows and siding. The Flowers were beginning to come up. It was such a beautiful day, which made the surroundings even better! The sun was shining down, the birds were singing and it was warm! Then....

We went inside. The floors were warped..you had to basically climb Mount Everest to get through the hallway, the kitchen was scary (to say the least), the door frames were not aligned, you could see to the outside from one bedrooms. The house smelled horrible. The wiring was from the 20's, the closets consisted of a board nailed up to the wall with a pole hanging from it. The ceilings showed obvious signs of a leaking roof..... on and on.

On the way back to our home, I just could not stop thinking about house this house appeared, and how the house truly was. I thought about how we disguise ourselves to people... and how God sees what is really in the inside. You can do whatever you want to decorate the package, but the package is not what is important. If all you are working on is making things appear like they are in in good shape, then I encourage you to stop. Take inventory, and begin inside. As you work on the inside, the outside will reflect it. Beauty will just shine even if you don't try to let it. The outside should reflect what is in the package, not disguise it. Never think for one minute that what you are showing to the world is all that is seen.

feeling great

2008-04-05T11:48:00.002-04:00

God is good! I am very blessed to be surrounded by people who love me and who have taken the time to pray for me. I want to thank you. I feel good! Great! I think that I am over the viral thing in just half the time it usually takes! I have the rash and all still but physically my body appears healed. It is wonderful to feel like me again. :-)

2008-04-03T08:23:00.001-04:00

2008-04-02T17:24:00.001-04:00

$1.99 at Christianbook.com

They have a DVD too!!! yippeeeeeeeeee

I'll keep looking for a study on it. I know you will all be thrilled :-)

2008-04-02T17:03:00.002-04:00

About two years ago, I read this book called "In His Steps" It is a classic by Charles Sheldon. It is not at typical book I would read, as it was somewhat old fashioned like... sorta written different than something that would catch my attention. At the time I was so seeking anything at all that would teach me about real faith in Christ, and how to live that life. It took me awhile to get into it, but soon....I read nothings else. Now, every time I see the book at a used store, I buy it. I have 6,7...8 copies perhaps. I want everyone to read it. Even though the setting and characters are dorky, in my opinion, the message is awesome! A pastor of a church gets tired of his congregation not "being real". He is tired of people talking the talk, but not walking the walk. He makes a challenge to those who truly want to make a difference and commit themselves. They cannot do anything at all without first asking themselves, "what would Jesus do?" NO matter what it might be...... business related, personal ~~ all of their life, at every minute. Is it something Jesus would do, and if not, why are they then. Also, to take a look at things that they are not doing that they should..like getting to know their neighbors, giving of self, giving of money, living each day as it is the last.

I want our church to do this. I want to do this. I cannot imagine the difference we could make as a community of believers if we seriously took every single thing to God before making a decision. If we simply asked, "what would Jesus do?" And then, if we responded as Jesus would. We would need the support of each other, we would need the backing and encouragement. I wonder if there is a bible study on this out there somewhere? I'll let you know what I find. God Bless!

Thanks

2008-04-02T17:00:00.003-04:00

Thanks for the prayers over my viral thingamiajig! I felt pretty decent yesterday, the best I had in some time! I knew by the middle of the day that people were praying for me, I just couldn't believe the difference in my overall everything. Today has been less energy, but I haven't really felt bad..so that is wonderful! I can do tired, I just don't want to do sick and tired. Thanks! Please keep it up.