Today marked a day that the nation has set up in 1971 to recognize those men and women who gave their lives in our nations service to protect the freedom that we enjoy today in our great nation. Memorial day was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Both sets of my grandparents are buried at the Veteran's cemetary in Houston. If you have never been to this cemetary I urge you to pay a visit--it is a cemetary but it is important to remember those who chose to give their lives for us.
These men and women paid a price for our freedom and comfort. Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In Isaiah 61:1 it says The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, Did you know that we are held captive to our sin without the blood of Jesus?
Living in the United States today we do not give much thought to slavery but there was a time when it was a real issue here. In 1962 the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves however many were destitute so continued to work on plantations. As Christians, Christ freed us from our old sin nature according to 2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Although we are a new creation in Christ Jesus we may choose to allow sin to weigh us down but Galatians 5:1 says It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. We must walk confidently in the knowledge that Christ made the sacrfice for our freedom and not allow satan to deceive us. Praise God each day for your freedom and the sacrifice that was made for you in Christ Jesus. Remember to thank those service men and women that you may come in contact with daily for the sacrifices they make to ensure your freedom.
Huge thank you to the men and women in the armed forces for your service and thank you to their families who make sacrifices daily with them away from home.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
No Matter What
I'm going to serve you alone...no matter what. Have you ever read the book of Job? If not, it's in the Old Testament--I encourage you to read it. It's a great example of faith and perseverance. Job was a righteous man in God's eyes. He had many of those things that we seek after--family, possessions--by the world's standards he was well off too. It starts off with a conversation between God and satan. God speaks of Job's righteousness. Satan tells God that it is only because God has prospered the man and that if it were all taken away he would not be so righteous. God said ok and allowed satan to take away everything that God had but not harm the man himself. With all that he lost he did not curse God. Satan then says that if he were to harm Job then he would curse God. So God allows satan to inflict Job with horrible illness and he still does not curse God. No matter what happended to Job he did not curse God.
Job was indeed a righteous man. He cursed the day he was born but never cursed God. What an incredible display of servitude--of faithfulness to the Almighty God. It never says that Job did anything wrong to deserve what happened to him. We are tested in this life and will receive a crown of glory. James 1:3 says because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. And James 1:12 says Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Life can be hard sometimes. Friends and family members with cancer; children are born with heart defects, loved ones are taken away from us far too soon; all of these are hard to understand but in all of these circumstances we must remember God is in control and will be with us no matter what. Psalm 71:20 says, Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. We can always trust God to carry us through every difficult situation no matter what.
God gives us so many promises but he also warns us. Revelation 2:10 says Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Be sure of one thing, we KNOW that there will be pain and suffering in this life...BUT we have the joy and peace of knowing that this life is only temporary...but a blink of the eye and we will go on to receive the crown of life for eternity. In James 4:14 it says, Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Psalm 16:11, You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
We can be so consumed with our lives and forget God. I want to challenge you to be consumed with God first as you live out your life. At the end of this journey....don't you want to go to glory? All He asks is that you serve Him now no matter what.
Job was indeed a righteous man. He cursed the day he was born but never cursed God. What an incredible display of servitude--of faithfulness to the Almighty God. It never says that Job did anything wrong to deserve what happened to him. We are tested in this life and will receive a crown of glory. James 1:3 says because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. And James 1:12 says Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Life can be hard sometimes. Friends and family members with cancer; children are born with heart defects, loved ones are taken away from us far too soon; all of these are hard to understand but in all of these circumstances we must remember God is in control and will be with us no matter what. Psalm 71:20 says, Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. We can always trust God to carry us through every difficult situation no matter what.
God gives us so many promises but he also warns us. Revelation 2:10 says Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Be sure of one thing, we KNOW that there will be pain and suffering in this life...BUT we have the joy and peace of knowing that this life is only temporary...but a blink of the eye and we will go on to receive the crown of life for eternity. In James 4:14 it says, Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Psalm 16:11, You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
We can be so consumed with our lives and forget God. I want to challenge you to be consumed with God first as you live out your life. At the end of this journey....don't you want to go to glory? All He asks is that you serve Him now no matter what.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Caller ID
Most of us use our cell phones as our main phone however if you have a home phone/land line you probably also have caller id. I remember a time when there was no caller id. When the phone rang, you answered. It was the neatest thing to be able to know who was calling before answering the phone. Now, it is used to determine whether we will speak to the person calling. We began choosing whether we would answer their call or let voicemail pick up.
So it is in our relationship with God. He is continually at work around us. Whether we are attentive to His voice and His call He goes about His work around us. He will call us to join Him at work; we must be ready to obey. We must be like Samuel in I Samuel 3:4 Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, “Here I am.”
Even in his hardship Job knew to answer God's call. If you aren't familiar with his story I encourage you to read it. Job 14:15 You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.
Now reverse it. When you call on God--in joy, in distress, in confusion, He is always there. He is waiting for us to call on Him. He will not interfere in our lives until we invite Him. Psalms is full of verses that we can cry out to God and He hears us. Psalm 138:3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted. Psalm 120:1 I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me. Psalm 17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.--you get the idea.
Next time your phone rings and you look to see who is calling--remember--God is calling you--will you answer His call? I know I will ;-)
So it is in our relationship with God. He is continually at work around us. Whether we are attentive to His voice and His call He goes about His work around us. He will call us to join Him at work; we must be ready to obey. We must be like Samuel in I Samuel 3:4 Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, “Here I am.”
Even in his hardship Job knew to answer God's call. If you aren't familiar with his story I encourage you to read it. Job 14:15 You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.
Now reverse it. When you call on God--in joy, in distress, in confusion, He is always there. He is waiting for us to call on Him. He will not interfere in our lives until we invite Him. Psalms is full of verses that we can cry out to God and He hears us. Psalm 138:3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted. Psalm 120:1 I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me. Psalm 17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.--you get the idea.
Next time your phone rings and you look to see who is calling--remember--God is calling you--will you answer His call? I know I will ;-)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Roller Coaster
There was a movie in the late 80's titled Parenthood with Steve Martin that had a quote about roller coasters that stuck with me. "Grandma" said "You know, when I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster. Up, down, up, down. Oh, what a ride! I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn't like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it."
In the movie this 'grandma' related the roller coaster ride to life. I'm sure that's why it stuck with me. It is interesting to me that life can be either like a 'roller coaster' or a 'merry-go-round'. I have never liked roller coasters--it made me frightened, sick, scared, excited all at the same time--it was overwhelming to me. As I've grown spiritually I have truly learned to appreciate and enjoy the ride. This past weekend I had many ups and downs all with God right beside me. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
In Psalm 119:105 it says, your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Whether I'm on the uphill part of the ride (which is exciting & thrilling) or downhill (frightening & scary) I know that God wil direct my steps if I stay focused on Him.
I am also reminded that as we have those 'spiritual high' moments at the top of the coaster that we will have moments of coming back down. I can only imagine how Moses must have felt on the mountain top speaking to God and then come back down to the rebellious Israelites.
I have also learned that when we are on those 'high mountain tops' in the presence of God that the enemy fully intends to divert our attention by throwing firey darts at us. Ephesians 6:16 says, In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. I Peter 5:8 says, Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us how to combat the downward ride with its' frightening and fearful moments.
Praise God for the highs and the lows and remember that His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3
I'm going to ride the roller coaster and love it!
In the movie this 'grandma' related the roller coaster ride to life. I'm sure that's why it stuck with me. It is interesting to me that life can be either like a 'roller coaster' or a 'merry-go-round'. I have never liked roller coasters--it made me frightened, sick, scared, excited all at the same time--it was overwhelming to me. As I've grown spiritually I have truly learned to appreciate and enjoy the ride. This past weekend I had many ups and downs all with God right beside me. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
In Psalm 119:105 it says, your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Whether I'm on the uphill part of the ride (which is exciting & thrilling) or downhill (frightening & scary) I know that God wil direct my steps if I stay focused on Him.
I am also reminded that as we have those 'spiritual high' moments at the top of the coaster that we will have moments of coming back down. I can only imagine how Moses must have felt on the mountain top speaking to God and then come back down to the rebellious Israelites.
I have also learned that when we are on those 'high mountain tops' in the presence of God that the enemy fully intends to divert our attention by throwing firey darts at us. Ephesians 6:16 says, In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. I Peter 5:8 says, Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us how to combat the downward ride with its' frightening and fearful moments.
Praise God for the highs and the lows and remember that His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3
I'm going to ride the roller coaster and love it!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Overwhelmed
I've recently been overwhelmed...overtaken by emotion....by an experience where I was covered completely by God's grace. As I made the decision to make a radical change recently I never would have dreamed of the things I am experiencing. It blows my mind how perfectly God orchestrates everything in our lives. Hebrew 13:21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
God gave me a vision several years ago for a ministry. I've questioned recently whether it was still God's desire and whether it would come to fruition. To my amazement, He began responding almost immediately. When we pray God doesn't always respond right away. We are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing. But God chose to respond right away to a recent prayer request.
Hebrews 12:2 says Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
We must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus; He will never steer is in the wrong direction and when we allow Him to take the lead.....we will be overwhelmed by His grace and His love.
God gave me a vision several years ago for a ministry. I've questioned recently whether it was still God's desire and whether it would come to fruition. To my amazement, He began responding almost immediately. When we pray God doesn't always respond right away. We are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing. But God chose to respond right away to a recent prayer request.
Hebrews 12:2 says Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
We must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus; He will never steer is in the wrong direction and when we allow Him to take the lead.....we will be overwhelmed by His grace and His love.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Hide & Seek
When I was young my mother babysat for everyone (or at least it seemed that way). Our house typically had anywhere from 6-10 kids at any given time. We didn't have much money or many toys so we played hide and seek a lot. All kids love hide & seek. The smaller kids/toddlers begin a love for it with peek-a-boo. There is something about hiding that we all love--and it begins early in life. We play the same game with sin in our lives; with our friends, family, co-workers and even ourselves--hiding who we are. We live with an exterior fascade and hide the pain and hurt inside.
We also continually seek. There is a song that says "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" by U2. If you aren't familar with the song go to You Tube and look it up. God created us with a deep desire for Him and Him alone. We spend most of our lives filling it with our things....searching....even as a believer instead of allowing Him to fill that void. Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Christ came to give us abundant life (John 10:10) but we must be willing to seek Him out in our daily lives.
I have previously mentioned God having a plan for my life and a plan for your life--Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. That plan involves seeking Him first and willingly following Him wherever He leads you.
I'm so thankful I'm in a season of my life that no longer want to hide--merely seek. As God has taken me out of my comfort zone in many areas of my life I find that He is fullfilling a vision he gave me years ago. There was a scripture with a promise, Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay. Now that I have made an active choice to seek God first He is bringing about the vision in His perfect timing.
As someone share the verses in Jeremiah 29 today with me God brought to mind Joel 2:25, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. I was so excited. Joel 2:25 is a promise of restoration. I've clung to that promise for years and see now that He is restoring me day by day as I choose to seek Him.
There is a quote that I love (I'm not sure where it came from so can't give credit where it is due) "A woman's heart should be so lost(hidden) in Christ that a man must seek Him in order to find her." Colossians 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
I saw a posting tonight on facebook --
What we are is God's gift to us; who we become is our gift to God. Become all that God created you to be - seeking Him first.
We also continually seek. There is a song that says "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" by U2. If you aren't familar with the song go to You Tube and look it up. God created us with a deep desire for Him and Him alone. We spend most of our lives filling it with our things....searching....even as a believer instead of allowing Him to fill that void. Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Christ came to give us abundant life (John 10:10) but we must be willing to seek Him out in our daily lives.
I have previously mentioned God having a plan for my life and a plan for your life--Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. That plan involves seeking Him first and willingly following Him wherever He leads you.
I'm so thankful I'm in a season of my life that no longer want to hide--merely seek. As God has taken me out of my comfort zone in many areas of my life I find that He is fullfilling a vision he gave me years ago. There was a scripture with a promise, Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay. Now that I have made an active choice to seek God first He is bringing about the vision in His perfect timing.
As someone share the verses in Jeremiah 29 today with me God brought to mind Joel 2:25, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. I was so excited. Joel 2:25 is a promise of restoration. I've clung to that promise for years and see now that He is restoring me day by day as I choose to seek Him.
There is a quote that I love (I'm not sure where it came from so can't give credit where it is due) "A woman's heart should be so lost(hidden) in Christ that a man must seek Him in order to find her." Colossians 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
I saw a posting tonight on facebook --
What we are is God's gift to us; who we become is our gift to God. Become all that God created you to be - seeking Him first.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Saved By Grace - Already Forgiven
As a Christian you are probably familiar with Ephesians 2:8-9, For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Whether you recently accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior or you did many years ago as a child we came to the same conclusion--we are sinners separated from God. We learned that grace is unmerited favor; Strong's defines it as the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. And that only Jesus Christ can restore our relationship with God. John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
If I take this a step further, 2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight. As I accept Christ I can now walk by faith trusting in Him. I believe this to be true. I believe the bible is the inerrant word of God. I was challenged recently about whether I live out what I say I believe. I realized that I'm not actually living as if I believe that Christ died on the cross for my sins. Don't get me wrong, I know beyond a doubt that I asked Jesus Christ into my heart when I was 11 years old at Pineywood Baptist Encampment but rather had carried the weight of sin around my neck even though I was already forgiven.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Here's the really cool thing that I learned--He's already forgiven me for ALL of my sins. This was done before I was even born! So why do I choose to keep carrying them around my neck?
As I am entering a season of my life that I am expecting radical change I have to be willing to throw off everything that is holding me back and weighing me down. Hebrews 12:1 says Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Interesting this verse keeps coming to mind. I truly desire to run (physically) but haven't made it a priority. The same is with our walk with God. We must make Him a priority--not as a chore, or to work off our sins, but to be in His presence and to know Him more. My race as Christian should be marked with the confidence that I walk (run) with forgiveness adorning my neck.
I will choose to walk in the knowledge of the grace and forgiveness that I have already received. Do you believe? Do you live it? Start today--lay it all down and start a fresh encounter with God.
If I take this a step further, 2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight. As I accept Christ I can now walk by faith trusting in Him. I believe this to be true. I believe the bible is the inerrant word of God. I was challenged recently about whether I live out what I say I believe. I realized that I'm not actually living as if I believe that Christ died on the cross for my sins. Don't get me wrong, I know beyond a doubt that I asked Jesus Christ into my heart when I was 11 years old at Pineywood Baptist Encampment but rather had carried the weight of sin around my neck even though I was already forgiven.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Here's the really cool thing that I learned--He's already forgiven me for ALL of my sins. This was done before I was even born! So why do I choose to keep carrying them around my neck?
As I am entering a season of my life that I am expecting radical change I have to be willing to throw off everything that is holding me back and weighing me down. Hebrews 12:1 says Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Interesting this verse keeps coming to mind. I truly desire to run (physically) but haven't made it a priority. The same is with our walk with God. We must make Him a priority--not as a chore, or to work off our sins, but to be in His presence and to know Him more. My race as Christian should be marked with the confidence that I walk (run) with forgiveness adorning my neck.
I will choose to walk in the knowledge of the grace and forgiveness that I have already received. Do you believe? Do you live it? Start today--lay it all down and start a fresh encounter with God.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Radical Change
I've known for a while that I needed a change...a radical change I just wasn't sure what direction to head. While out yesterday a book caught my eye - 100 Days to Radical Change. The book is intended to help one transform their life through a closer relationship to God through Christ Jesus. I'm in! Day One - Put God First. My first thought is 'I do put God first' but in taking a closer look I don't read my bible daily, pray fervently or look for guidance from Him in all I do. I can't just say it--I have to live like I mean it.
I love how when God wants to get my attention He provides the message loud and clear through different avenues. As I mentioned, I knew I needed a radical change--I had written 'live a radical life' on my bathroom mirrior just days before (1). I found the book at Lifeway yesterday (2). Then today's sermon was on transformation (3). Specifically, he talked about the woman at the well (John 4). Her transformation was so obvious to everyone that they immediately went to find Christ. I don't know about you but I want that kind of transformation!
To round this out, I just finished a bible study about the Israelites journey to the promised land (4). At the edge of Canaan, the land God had promised to them, they decide to go investigate first. (Numbers 13 & 14). The decision had been made--God promised victory yet they chose to go 'check it out'. This showed a lack of trust in God. As a result only two of the original Israelites that were brought out of Egypt entered the Promised Land.
I can see myself doing the same thing as the Israelites in many areas of my life. Today, I had a conversation with one of my single friends. We were discussing being content in our singleness. I had indicated that I am quite content with my singleness. However, I talk about wanting a husband, try to figure out relationships, dabble in dating, etc. So if I keep talking about it, searching, etc. do I really trust God? Do I believe His Word? Matthew 10:30 says the hairs on my head are numbered, knit in mothers womb Psalm 139:13, Psalm 139:16 all the days for me are were written in your book before one of them came to be. I believe all of these verses so why would not God choose my husband and at His appointed time? I could same the same thing about work, my finances, parenting, etc.
Proverbs 3:5 is very clear, "Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding." If I'm thinking about a husband I'm also not worshipping God--my thoughts need to be focused on Him first. In Proverbs 3:6 it says "In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (emphasis mine)
I'm heading into unchartered territory seeking a radical change; the road is going to get narrow....stayed tuned....or better yet, join me! Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
I love how when God wants to get my attention He provides the message loud and clear through different avenues. As I mentioned, I knew I needed a radical change--I had written 'live a radical life' on my bathroom mirrior just days before (1). I found the book at Lifeway yesterday (2). Then today's sermon was on transformation (3). Specifically, he talked about the woman at the well (John 4). Her transformation was so obvious to everyone that they immediately went to find Christ. I don't know about you but I want that kind of transformation!
To round this out, I just finished a bible study about the Israelites journey to the promised land (4). At the edge of Canaan, the land God had promised to them, they decide to go investigate first. (Numbers 13 & 14). The decision had been made--God promised victory yet they chose to go 'check it out'. This showed a lack of trust in God. As a result only two of the original Israelites that were brought out of Egypt entered the Promised Land.
I can see myself doing the same thing as the Israelites in many areas of my life. Today, I had a conversation with one of my single friends. We were discussing being content in our singleness. I had indicated that I am quite content with my singleness. However, I talk about wanting a husband, try to figure out relationships, dabble in dating, etc. So if I keep talking about it, searching, etc. do I really trust God? Do I believe His Word? Matthew 10:30 says the hairs on my head are numbered, knit in mothers womb Psalm 139:13, Psalm 139:16 all the days for me are were written in your book before one of them came to be. I believe all of these verses so why would not God choose my husband and at His appointed time? I could same the same thing about work, my finances, parenting, etc.
Proverbs 3:5 is very clear, "Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding." If I'm thinking about a husband I'm also not worshipping God--my thoughts need to be focused on Him first. In Proverbs 3:6 it says "In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (emphasis mine)
I'm heading into unchartered territory seeking a radical change; the road is going to get narrow....stayed tuned....or better yet, join me! Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Life Happens
Over the course of the last two weeks I have not been posting daily. I had the material (in my head) but never got it composed and published. It began to frustrate me when one day became two, etc. There were several areas of my life that this was happening--house work, yard work, etc. I began to take inventory of my life to determine why all of these things were not getting done it became very clear to me that my schedule was overloaded. I have a full time job but also have other responsiblities; I sit on a committee, teach ladies bible study, 6th grade girls bible study, take dance lessons, missions, etc. All of a sudden I have every waking moment full--life happens --no wonder I'm tired. :-)
I love all of these things that I'm doing so it's important to assess whether they are the best things for me to do. I like how Jesus responds to Martha when she asks Jesus to tell her sister to help with preparations - Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I had a Martha moment this past week. I had a friend and her family who had a plumbing issue and needed to come over to shower. I was honored and happy to be able to help them but was a bit embarrassed because my house was a wreck and I didn't have time to 'clean up' before they arrived. I have a habit of writing notes, scriptures and thoughts for my blog on the glass in my shower. I know it's odd but I do alot of thinking in the shower and have a very short memory so I write it down with dry erase markers on the shower door--it's my process. I'm single so no one would know right? I usually have a bible verse on the mirror as well. I had no time (and simply forgot) that someone else would be in my shower. My friend came downstairs after her shower and commented on my shower door. God's teaching me to laugh through these life experiences.
I find that when I plan and make preparations in advance the it does not seem to be so overwhelming. In order to plan properly we have to weigh everything we do against what God desires of us. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. We need to plan our activities to ensure they line up with what God asks of us. - For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Still looking for the maid fairy to take care of my house...don't think she'll be showing up. ;-) Put God's priorities for you first. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
I love all of these things that I'm doing so it's important to assess whether they are the best things for me to do. I like how Jesus responds to Martha when she asks Jesus to tell her sister to help with preparations - Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I had a Martha moment this past week. I had a friend and her family who had a plumbing issue and needed to come over to shower. I was honored and happy to be able to help them but was a bit embarrassed because my house was a wreck and I didn't have time to 'clean up' before they arrived. I have a habit of writing notes, scriptures and thoughts for my blog on the glass in my shower. I know it's odd but I do alot of thinking in the shower and have a very short memory so I write it down with dry erase markers on the shower door--it's my process. I'm single so no one would know right? I usually have a bible verse on the mirror as well. I had no time (and simply forgot) that someone else would be in my shower. My friend came downstairs after her shower and commented on my shower door. God's teaching me to laugh through these life experiences.
I find that when I plan and make preparations in advance the it does not seem to be so overwhelming. In order to plan properly we have to weigh everything we do against what God desires of us. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. We need to plan our activities to ensure they line up with what God asks of us. - For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Still looking for the maid fairy to take care of my house...don't think she'll be showing up. ;-) Put God's priorities for you first. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Broken
Webster's defines Broken as: violated by transgression; violently separated into parts(shattered); cut off. It sounds negative, bad even but the reality is being broken draws us closer to a Holy God. Psalm 34:18 says, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. It broke my heart to have my daughter move to her dad's house after raising her for sixteen years. It hurt; I still feel the pain but God has drawn me so much closer to Him. I've experienced His love and grace in ways that I could never imagine through this experience. He truly meets you right where you are. He met me in one of the deepest places of despair that I have been in and set my feet on level ground. Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. I love Psalm 51. In Psalm 51:17 it says, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
As God has given me this time of drawing near to Him He has called me to share with others what He has done. I am called to preach the good news, comfort others and bind up the broken hearted. Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Our rebellious spirit needs to be broken so that we can be cleaned. We need to have the sin of pride, resentment, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy, etc. removed from our heart. In Ezekiel 36:25-26 it sasy I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
Is there something that God needs to break in you? I pray you will allow Him to break you, to build you back up into the man or woman of God that He designed for you to be.
As God has given me this time of drawing near to Him He has called me to share with others what He has done. I am called to preach the good news, comfort others and bind up the broken hearted. Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Our rebellious spirit needs to be broken so that we can be cleaned. We need to have the sin of pride, resentment, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy, etc. removed from our heart. In Ezekiel 36:25-26 it sasy I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.
Is there something that God needs to break in you? I pray you will allow Him to break you, to build you back up into the man or woman of God that He designed for you to be.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Motherhood - A Gift & Privledge
I hope all the mothers had a wonderful Mother's Day. My day was a little difficult at times. This was the first time since giving birth to my child over 17 years ago that I didn't spend it with her. I spent some time today lamenting my child who was not here on Mother's Day. Yet I found myself praising God that He allowed me the privledge of being a mother. A child is an incredible gift--the ability to give life to another--one of God's greatest gifts and blessings.
Proverbs 31:25-26 speaks of a wife and mother-- "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." v.28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
I found myself praising God for His goodness towards me throughout the day. He brought people along side me that blessed me tremendously. Two friends that I don't see or talk to very often offered encouragement in a special way. In I Thessalonians 5:11 it says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Without realizing it today my two friends built me up earlier in the afternoon and this evening when I had a difficult time I was reminded of those two ministering angels.
As our heavenly Father brings others around to minister to us and pray for us. As a mother (parent) of children we need to continually pray for our children and help direct their steps. Sometimes we have to fight for our children--even when they don't want us to. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Satan would like to thwart our children from serving a Holy God. We must be willing to fight on their behalf. It may be difficult--painful at times but we must persevere.
Romans 3:5-7 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
A friend shared a great poem with me this evening--
With trials
we grow stronger in faith;
With faith
we move closer to God;
With God
we can do all things.
This is a great poem and it strengtened my heart in many ways. My friend did not know it but that last line comes from my life verse. I say my life verse because anytime in my life that I've went through a difficult time that was the verse that God brought to mind and I leaned on. It's found in Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. - As you endure trials I pray you will grow in faith, move closer to God and do all things according to His will for your life.
Proverbs 31:25-26 speaks of a wife and mother-- "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." v.28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
I found myself praising God for His goodness towards me throughout the day. He brought people along side me that blessed me tremendously. Two friends that I don't see or talk to very often offered encouragement in a special way. In I Thessalonians 5:11 it says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Without realizing it today my two friends built me up earlier in the afternoon and this evening when I had a difficult time I was reminded of those two ministering angels.
As our heavenly Father brings others around to minister to us and pray for us. As a mother (parent) of children we need to continually pray for our children and help direct their steps. Sometimes we have to fight for our children--even when they don't want us to. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Satan would like to thwart our children from serving a Holy God. We must be willing to fight on their behalf. It may be difficult--painful at times but we must persevere.
Romans 3:5-7 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
A friend shared a great poem with me this evening--
With trials
we grow stronger in faith;
With faith
we move closer to God;
With God
we can do all things.
This is a great poem and it strengtened my heart in many ways. My friend did not know it but that last line comes from my life verse. I say my life verse because anytime in my life that I've went through a difficult time that was the verse that God brought to mind and I leaned on. It's found in Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. - As you endure trials I pray you will grow in faith, move closer to God and do all things according to His will for your life.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Follow--Don't Lead
I recently started taking dance lessons and I love it. It's great exercise and a lot of fun. The current lessons are on the Texas 2-step. While I've muddled my way around the dance floor in the past I wanted to really learn how to do it properly. The instructor (who is great by the way) said something tonight that completely threw me. He said (to the women) 'you are not to lead--move or take a step without the man taking the first....' He reminded the men that it was their job to lead. Wow! This hit me on so many different levels. He was talking about the dance but it was so much more. For me to do the 2-step properly I must willing follow my partner. They have you rotate out with partners so I had to adjust to a different man every so often.
I thought about relationships. I've been single all of my life with the exception of about 6 months. I've been a single parent for 17 years. I have been the leader in my home, in my church group, other commitments, and in projects at work. It is great to lead--at times we are called to lead but in order to lead appropriately you must be willing to follow first. When Jesus started His ministry He told the disciples, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19
Jesus begin His ministry with a small group (12
). To each He gave the same call 'come follow me'. Luke 14:27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. We are to carry our cross first.
I thought about relationships. I've been single all of my life with the exception of about 6 months. I've been a single parent for 17 years. I have been the leader in my home, in my church group, other commitments, and in projects at work. It is great to lead--at times we are called to lead but in order to lead appropriately you must be willing to follow first. When Jesus started His ministry He told the disciples, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19
Jesus begin His ministry with a small group (12
). To each He gave the same call 'come follow me'. Luke 14:27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. We are to carry our cross first.
Ebenezer - What Have You Done?
I stand in awe at the incredible work that God has done in my life over the years. I don't take nearly enough time to stop and reflect on it all but recently had the privledge and honor to spend time with a younger single mom and share some of God's work in my life as a single mom. Titus 2 came to mind -- "older women...teach young women....." Yikes! All of sudden I realize I'm the 'older' one. Praise God He is allowing me to pour out to others what He has poured into me over the years!
Have you taken inventory of your life? Are you where you thought you would be? Are you content? Have you seen God at work in your life? In I Samuel 7:12 it says, Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the Lord helped us.” Samuel took a stone and named it Ebenezer. It stood as a memorial/reminder of all that God had done so far in the lives of the Israelites. He does the same for you and I today.
As I share my failures and successes it is really incredible to think that God takes even the failures and uses them for His good, In Romans 8:28, And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. All my successes have been because of Him. As I willingly acknowledge God's leading I can be sure that I'm on the right track. Proverbs 3:6 says In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Whether our past failures are by our own doing or by another's, God will ultimately use your life to bring glory to His name if you will let Him. An example of this is found in the story of Joseph and his brothers who sold him into slavery. Genesis 50:20 "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." God will use your entire life for His glory and His purposes.
Moses knew the importance of trusting God. In Exodus 33:15 Moses said to God, Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. What if we made that same choice--we will not go unless God leads us?
Do you know what God has done in your life? Do you have an Ebenezer? If not, I encourage you to collect a stone, put a date on it and place it where you can see it on a regular basis as a reminder of all that God has done, is doing and will do in your life.
Have you taken inventory of your life? Are you where you thought you would be? Are you content? Have you seen God at work in your life? In I Samuel 7:12 it says, Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the Lord helped us.” Samuel took a stone and named it Ebenezer. It stood as a memorial/reminder of all that God had done so far in the lives of the Israelites. He does the same for you and I today.
As I share my failures and successes it is really incredible to think that God takes even the failures and uses them for His good, In Romans 8:28, And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. All my successes have been because of Him. As I willingly acknowledge God's leading I can be sure that I'm on the right track. Proverbs 3:6 says In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Whether our past failures are by our own doing or by another's, God will ultimately use your life to bring glory to His name if you will let Him. An example of this is found in the story of Joseph and his brothers who sold him into slavery. Genesis 50:20 "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." God will use your entire life for His glory and His purposes.
Moses knew the importance of trusting God. In Exodus 33:15 Moses said to God, Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. What if we made that same choice--we will not go unless God leads us?
Do you know what God has done in your life? Do you have an Ebenezer? If not, I encourage you to collect a stone, put a date on it and place it where you can see it on a regular basis as a reminder of all that God has done, is doing and will do in your life.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wait....Expectantly
I've never been very good with intimate relationships. For several years I have had an interest in a man but denied it to myself and others because I wasn't willing to open myself up to anyone. As I have allowed God to tear down walls and heal old wounds I'm learning to open up. As my eyes were opened it became very obvious to me there was significant physical attraction (I'm sure I blushed when that revelation occurred) :-). Needless to say, all of a sudden I'm ready to get this thing started (so to speak).
Well, let's just say that it didn't get started, I'm impatient and he wasn't interested in me. In the past, I would have felt rejected and closed myself off again. Tonight, instead, I smiled and praised God that I He had done a work in me and my heart was full of joy. I have been redeemed and restored--my life is not measured by whether someone accepts or rejects me--God, the Creator of the universe has already accepted and loved me--and willingly allowed His Son to die on a cross for me. What's even more wonderful is I felt a desire to pray for this man that God would bless him in whatever he does in his life and give him his deepest desires. We are told in I Thessalonians 5:18 "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
I have to giggle at myself sometimes. Although I closed myself off for many years (at least a decade), all of a sudden I want things NOW, to fall into place in my timing. It has taken a long time for me to get here....41 years to be exact; but all by God's grace and mercy. As walls have come down, eyes opened and revelation from God, I am in awe of the work He is doing in me and through me. I'm learning to follow His leading and rest in His presence. My journey is getting quite fun. Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. Psalm 46:10
As I took my dog out tonight in the backyard it was incredible. There was no traffic on nearby roads, the only thing I heard was the wind whipping through the trees and my windchime....God was there. In that quiet, still, moment His presence could be seen and felt as the wind tossed the limbs of the trees and whirled around. As I listened I was reminded of the tree planted by the stream in Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Now that I know and my eyes are open I intend to follow God's leading and prosper--whatever that may look like.
Ephesians 5:14 says "For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." I am awake and Christ is shining on me. :-) I am waiting expectantly to see what God has in store for me. Are you ready to take your journey with God?
As a side note I finally kicked into the physical side of this too--I'm back at the gym and have started taking dance classes.
Well, let's just say that it didn't get started, I'm impatient and he wasn't interested in me. In the past, I would have felt rejected and closed myself off again. Tonight, instead, I smiled and praised God that I He had done a work in me and my heart was full of joy. I have been redeemed and restored--my life is not measured by whether someone accepts or rejects me--God, the Creator of the universe has already accepted and loved me--and willingly allowed His Son to die on a cross for me. What's even more wonderful is I felt a desire to pray for this man that God would bless him in whatever he does in his life and give him his deepest desires. We are told in I Thessalonians 5:18 "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
I have to giggle at myself sometimes. Although I closed myself off for many years (at least a decade), all of a sudden I want things NOW, to fall into place in my timing. It has taken a long time for me to get here....41 years to be exact; but all by God's grace and mercy. As walls have come down, eyes opened and revelation from God, I am in awe of the work He is doing in me and through me. I'm learning to follow His leading and rest in His presence. My journey is getting quite fun. Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. Psalm 46:10
As I took my dog out tonight in the backyard it was incredible. There was no traffic on nearby roads, the only thing I heard was the wind whipping through the trees and my windchime....God was there. In that quiet, still, moment His presence could be seen and felt as the wind tossed the limbs of the trees and whirled around. As I listened I was reminded of the tree planted by the stream in Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Now that I know and my eyes are open I intend to follow God's leading and prosper--whatever that may look like.
Ephesians 5:14 says "For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." I am awake and Christ is shining on me. :-) I am waiting expectantly to see what God has in store for me. Are you ready to take your journey with God?
As a side note I finally kicked into the physical side of this too--I'm back at the gym and have started taking dance classes.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Close but Closed
I feel very fortunate that I have a large group of great friends. I have friends from different backgrounds, places, age groups and status. I've always thought of myself as a friendly and open person but have recently come to realize that is not true.
I had one of those close friends ask me a question recently that shocked me. I was shocked because after knowing them for such a long time and having spent a lot of time with them I would have assumed they knew me well enough to know the answer. It took me a while to realize that I had been closed off--even to close friends. I didn't let anyone in. I had built up walls around me to protect me so how could anyone really know me? The only way for someone to know me (or you) is to open up. Later, God revealed to me just how big those walls of Jericho (3/28 post) were that I built so many years ago.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight. If we truly trust God and live by faith there is no need to have walls. We are called to share our lives with others. I discovered something interesting--if you are building up walls to keep others out this directly contradicts God's Word. Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. And 1 Peter 4:10 says Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If I'm busy with those walls I'm not focusing on what God's called me to do. I can't be a very effective witness if I don't open up to others.
By no accident, today's sermon was about crossroads - making life's biggest decisions. You and I can experience a dramatically altered life IF we choose to move in the direction God leads. If I start with God He will always direct me in the best way to go. It sounds pretty easy but is hard to do. Psalm 119:105 says Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. I'm a visual person so I have this illustration that works well for me. I love camping and the outdoors. If you've ever been camping and need to go anywhere after sunset you know that you need a lantern or flashlight. The lantern/flashlight will shine in a very small, specific path (it only illuminates a set distance). You have to take a step forward to see farther. Each step you take another area comes into sight. In the same way, we have to trust God to guide our path. As we take a step in faith, He reveals something new.
I was at a crossroad today, I chose to make God's Word the starting point for all of my decisions and tear down the walls that I built. What will you do at your crossroad?
2 Corinthians 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
I had one of those close friends ask me a question recently that shocked me. I was shocked because after knowing them for such a long time and having spent a lot of time with them I would have assumed they knew me well enough to know the answer. It took me a while to realize that I had been closed off--even to close friends. I didn't let anyone in. I had built up walls around me to protect me so how could anyone really know me? The only way for someone to know me (or you) is to open up. Later, God revealed to me just how big those walls of Jericho (3/28 post) were that I built so many years ago.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight. If we truly trust God and live by faith there is no need to have walls. We are called to share our lives with others. I discovered something interesting--if you are building up walls to keep others out this directly contradicts God's Word. Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. And 1 Peter 4:10 says Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If I'm busy with those walls I'm not focusing on what God's called me to do. I can't be a very effective witness if I don't open up to others.
By no accident, today's sermon was about crossroads - making life's biggest decisions. You and I can experience a dramatically altered life IF we choose to move in the direction God leads. If I start with God He will always direct me in the best way to go. It sounds pretty easy but is hard to do. Psalm 119:105 says Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. I'm a visual person so I have this illustration that works well for me. I love camping and the outdoors. If you've ever been camping and need to go anywhere after sunset you know that you need a lantern or flashlight. The lantern/flashlight will shine in a very small, specific path (it only illuminates a set distance). You have to take a step forward to see farther. Each step you take another area comes into sight. In the same way, we have to trust God to guide our path. As we take a step in faith, He reveals something new.
I was at a crossroad today, I chose to make God's Word the starting point for all of my decisions and tear down the walls that I built. What will you do at your crossroad?
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.
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