By: Gloria Lucy Fernandez Canque (Chiriqui, Panama)
Jeremiah 18:1-6 (NRSV) The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: "Come, go down to the potter's house, and there I will let you hear my words." So I went down to the potter's house, and there he was working at his wheel. The vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as seemed good to him.Then the word of the LORD came to me: Can I not do with you, O house of Israel, just as this potter has done? says the LORD. Just like the clay in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.
O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.- Isaiah 64:8 (NRSV)
IN our ceramics class, we worked on various flowerpot and planter designs. While one of my companions was putting the finishing touches on a beautiful flowerpot, a sudden movement caused it to break in her hands. The instructor told her it could not be used. She was given fresh clay to start on another project. As I worked on my project, I thought how much we are like clay in the hands of the Lord. When we accept the Lord, the Lord guides us and, like a potter, gives shape to our lives. But unlike the pot my friend made, when events in our lives break us, that is not the end. Jesus Christ takes the shattered pieces and remakes our lives. Though we cannot accomplish it ourselves, the Lord can transform us into a new creation.
Prayer: Merciful Lord, take us in your hands; mold and transform us. Make us a new creation as we pray, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil."* Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:When we allow the Lord's transforming power to work within us, we are continually being made new. --
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Mothers and Their Children
It never ceases to amaze me.....Mothers and their Children. A Mother's love for her child never sees the true child. It is because they always see through a Mother's eyes, eyes that see through love and they only see their baby when they look at the little monster.
It doesn't make any difference that their child or children have been suspended from school, picked up by the police, or even arrested for drunkeness or theft or drugs or vandalism or fighting. Even despite the fact that their actions and doings have been seen by everyone else.
When asked, the mother will always say my son or daughter is a good boy or girl. And inevitably it is always the other person's fault. To them their child is still their baby and there is nothing wrong with the child. Mothers will push their children on everyone friends, family and yes even strangers because everyone should love their child, pay lots of attention to their child and above all compliment them regardless of what they've done.
Mothers cannot comprehend that there is no humanly possible way for ANYONE other than themselves, not even their Fathers or Grandparents to love that child or see that child the same way they do. Everyone else can see the child for who or what they really are while No one else, but their mother sees them through a mother's eyes....The Eyes of Love.
With Love This Strong, would you believe there is still another Love is that even greater? That is the Love that God has for his children. God loved us before the foundation of the world even existed (creation). He loved us and knew us before we were even conceived. He loved us so much that sent his son Jesus to Die on the Cross and shed his innocent blood on our behalf. And what is so wonderful is that he loves us still regardless of who or what we are and freely invites each of us to accept him into our hearts as our Lord and Savior and have eternal life.
It doesn't make any difference that their child or children have been suspended from school, picked up by the police, or even arrested for drunkeness or theft or drugs or vandalism or fighting. Even despite the fact that their actions and doings have been seen by everyone else.
When asked, the mother will always say my son or daughter is a good boy or girl. And inevitably it is always the other person's fault. To them their child is still their baby and there is nothing wrong with the child. Mothers will push their children on everyone friends, family and yes even strangers because everyone should love their child, pay lots of attention to their child and above all compliment them regardless of what they've done.
Mothers cannot comprehend that there is no humanly possible way for ANYONE other than themselves, not even their Fathers or Grandparents to love that child or see that child the same way they do. Everyone else can see the child for who or what they really are while No one else, but their mother sees them through a mother's eyes....The Eyes of Love.
With Love This Strong, would you believe there is still another Love is that even greater? That is the Love that God has for his children. God loved us before the foundation of the world even existed (creation). He loved us and knew us before we were even conceived. He loved us so much that sent his son Jesus to Die on the Cross and shed his innocent blood on our behalf. And what is so wonderful is that he loves us still regardless of who or what we are and freely invites each of us to accept him into our hearts as our Lord and Savior and have eternal life.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Forgiving Others
It is so hard to forgive those who hurt us so deeply. We may “SAY” we forgive them, but we don’t leave the hurt feelings and the issue at the feet of Jesus. Each of us tend to pick them right back up and stuff them in deep hidden place only for Satan to find our hiding place and bring them up again.
I’ve even heard people say, “I have a right to be angry and hate them after what they did to me”. But God has a very different view in the matter.
This is the email Word for the Day I received.“You are not among those who seek revenge. Some carry their revenge and vengeance for the rest of their lives because someone offended or transgressed their "rights." There are believers today who live by the law "and eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth." They did not learn this from Me. I gave a better way when Jesus died on the cross. He introduced grace and mercy with unconditional love. I say unto you, examine yourself today and see if you have any revenge or vengeance in your heart. If you find any at all, repent quickly and bring those offenders with you to My throne of grace. There you will find grace in your time of need.”
I’ve even heard people say, “I have a right to be angry and hate them after what they did to me”. But God has a very different view in the matter.
This is the email Word for the Day I received.“You are not among those who seek revenge. Some carry their revenge and vengeance for the rest of their lives because someone offended or transgressed their "rights." There are believers today who live by the law "and eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth." They did not learn this from Me. I gave a better way when Jesus died on the cross. He introduced grace and mercy with unconditional love. I say unto you, examine yourself today and see if you have any revenge or vengeance in your heart. If you find any at all, repent quickly and bring those offenders with you to My throne of grace. There you will find grace in your time of need.”
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
OPENED AND CLOSED
I received this email forward from a friend and wanted to pass its power message along.....
We need to learn to thank the Lord for closed doors just as much as we do for open doors.
The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us. If he didn't close the wrong door we would never find our way to the right door.
Even when we don't realize it, God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors.
When one door closes, it forces us to change our course. Another door closes; it forces us to change our course yet again. Then finally, we find the open door and walk right into our blessing.
But instead of praising God for the closed door (which kept us out of trouble), we get upset because we "judge by the appearances."
And in our own arrogance, or ignorance, we insist that we know what is right.
We have a very present help in the time of need that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of us, He can see trouble down the road and HE sets up roadblocks and detours accordingly.
But through our lack of wisdom we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour signs.
Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying "Lord how could this happen to me?" We have got to realize that the closed door was a blessing.
Didn't He say "No good thing will He withhold from them that love Him?"
If you get terminated from your job - don't be down, instead thank God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves - it might be a better job, or an opportunity to go to school. If that man or woman won't return your call - it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go). One time a person had a bank he had been doing business with for many years tell him "NO" for a $10,000 loan.
The Lord led him to call another bank. That bank approved a $40,000 loan for him at a lower interest rate than his own bank had advertised. I'm so grateful, for the many times God has closed doors to me, just to open them in the most unexpected places.
The Mountaintop is glorious, but it is in the Valley that I will grow! Always Remember God gives you...
Ø Enough Happiness to keep you Sweet
Ø Enough Trials to keep you Strong
Ø Enough Sorrows to keep you Human
Ø Enough Hope to keep you Happy
Ø Enough Failure to keep you Humble
Ø Enough Success to keep you Eager
Ø Enough Friends to give you Comfort
Ø Enough Wealth to meet your Needs
Ø Enough Enthusiasm to make you look forward
Ø Enough Faith to banish depression, &
Ø Enough Determination to make each day a better day than the last. Life must be lived forward but can only be understood backwards.
We need to learn to thank the Lord for closed doors just as much as we do for open doors.
The reason God closes doors is because He has not prepared anything over there for us. If he didn't close the wrong door we would never find our way to the right door.
Even when we don't realize it, God directs our paths through the closing and opening of doors.
When one door closes, it forces us to change our course. Another door closes; it forces us to change our course yet again. Then finally, we find the open door and walk right into our blessing.
But instead of praising God for the closed door (which kept us out of trouble), we get upset because we "judge by the appearances."
And in our own arrogance, or ignorance, we insist that we know what is right.
We have a very present help in the time of need that is always standing guard. Because He walks ahead of us, He can see trouble down the road and HE sets up roadblocks and detours accordingly.
But through our lack of wisdom we try to tear down the roadblocks or push aside the detour signs.
Then the minute we get into trouble, we start crying "Lord how could this happen to me?" We have got to realize that the closed door was a blessing.
Didn't He say "No good thing will He withhold from them that love Him?"
If you get terminated from your job - don't be down, instead thank God for the new opportunities that will manifest themselves - it might be a better job, or an opportunity to go to school. If that man or woman won't return your call - it might not be them, it might be the Lord setting up a roadblock (just let it go). One time a person had a bank he had been doing business with for many years tell him "NO" for a $10,000 loan.
The Lord led him to call another bank. That bank approved a $40,000 loan for him at a lower interest rate than his own bank had advertised. I'm so grateful, for the many times God has closed doors to me, just to open them in the most unexpected places.
The Mountaintop is glorious, but it is in the Valley that I will grow! Always Remember God gives you...
Ø Enough Happiness to keep you Sweet
Ø Enough Trials to keep you Strong
Ø Enough Sorrows to keep you Human
Ø Enough Hope to keep you Happy
Ø Enough Failure to keep you Humble
Ø Enough Success to keep you Eager
Ø Enough Friends to give you Comfort
Ø Enough Wealth to meet your Needs
Ø Enough Enthusiasm to make you look forward
Ø Enough Faith to banish depression, &
Ø Enough Determination to make each day a better day than the last. Life must be lived forward but can only be understood backwards.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
HE IS THE FIRST AND LAST
HE IS THE FIRST AND LAST (an email forward)
~author unknown~
He is the First and Last,the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was,
He always is,
and He always will be ...
unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him,
and The leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him,
and The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him,
and "Oprah" can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,
His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging,
And His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer,
He is my Savior,
He is my guide,
andHe is my peace!
He is my Joy,
He is my comfort,
He is my Lord,
andHe rules my life!
I serve Him becauseHis bond is love,
His burden is light,
and His goal for me is abundant life.
~author unknown~
He is the First and Last,the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was,
He always is,
and He always will be ...
unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him,
and The leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him,
and The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him,
and "Oprah" can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,
His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging,
And His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer,
He is my Savior,
He is my guide,
andHe is my peace!
He is my Joy,
He is my comfort,
He is my Lord,
andHe rules my life!
I serve Him becauseHis bond is love,
His burden is light,
and His goal for me is abundant life.
Monday, August 13, 2007
A Woman’s Price Tag
By Bonita Lillie
Scripture
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
I looked like a peacock strutting in full splendor, displaying regal feathers. I was wearing my “coat of many colors,” a plaid sateen jacket, a gift from my sanguine mother who loves color and flair. It felt awkward wearing my mother’s personality. I err to the conservative side, preferring that all eyes not be on me. Uneasily, I slid into one of the front rows of the church, hoping the shine of the jacket wouldn’t distract people from the sermon.
I became engrossed in the service and it wasn’t until after church was over that the jacket came to mind again. My neck was itching and as I reached back to scratch it I was horrified to discover that the price tag to my new jacket was hanging down my back. Worse yet, I wasn’t just on sale, I was on clearance! I guess my fellow worshippers were too embarrassed to tell me.
Unfortunately, many of us are like that jacket. We look good, but we have an imaginary price tag hanging not on our clothes, but on our person. We see ourselves as cheap, not worth much, possibly even on God’s clearance rack. We don’t believe anyone could ever love us and certainly, God could never use us in His plan, but nothing could be further from the truth.
It’s interesting that in Proverbs 31 before God ever addresses the godly woman’s “to do” list, he establishes her worth. Before she ever says or does anything, He deems her worthy, apart from all works and He does it in such a way that we can never forget it. He doesn’t just label her adequate, but He raves about her, ranking her superior to the rarest, most exquisite stones. God’s woman is worth more than costly gems. That woman is you!
Your worth isn’t wrapped up in your accomplishments, possessions, job title, popularity, or looks. It isn’t about what others think of you, good or bad. It doesn’t even matter what you think of yourself. We can be our harshest critic, can’t we? Your worth has nothing to do with any of those things or even your ability to carry out the duties listed in Proverbs 31. You are precious to God simply because you are His child.
The truth is that one day you did have a price tag hanging on you. I Corinthians 6:20 says, “you were bought with a price.” Yet, you weren’t cheap. In fact, it cost God everything to purchase you for Himself. You are one valuable lady, a woman deeply loved and valued by God. You mean the world and all to Him!
Prayer:
Father, when I’m tempted to look down on myself or feel unworthy, help me to hold my head high, knowing that my value doesn’t come from my own feelings, but from You. You say I’m valuable and that is enough. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Make eye contact with yourself in a mirror and repeat after me: I have value. I have worth. No matter how I feel, God’s word is true. He loves me. He values me. I am important.
Reflections:
Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry or maybe a certain type of stone that sets your heart a pitter-patter? Take a few moments to think about the beautiful facets of those gems. Ask God to bring this picture to mind when you start to thinking negative thoughts about yourself.
By Bonita Lillie
Scripture
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31:10 (NIV)
Devotion:
I looked like a peacock strutting in full splendor, displaying regal feathers. I was wearing my “coat of many colors,” a plaid sateen jacket, a gift from my sanguine mother who loves color and flair. It felt awkward wearing my mother’s personality. I err to the conservative side, preferring that all eyes not be on me. Uneasily, I slid into one of the front rows of the church, hoping the shine of the jacket wouldn’t distract people from the sermon.
I became engrossed in the service and it wasn’t until after church was over that the jacket came to mind again. My neck was itching and as I reached back to scratch it I was horrified to discover that the price tag to my new jacket was hanging down my back. Worse yet, I wasn’t just on sale, I was on clearance! I guess my fellow worshippers were too embarrassed to tell me.
Unfortunately, many of us are like that jacket. We look good, but we have an imaginary price tag hanging not on our clothes, but on our person. We see ourselves as cheap, not worth much, possibly even on God’s clearance rack. We don’t believe anyone could ever love us and certainly, God could never use us in His plan, but nothing could be further from the truth.
It’s interesting that in Proverbs 31 before God ever addresses the godly woman’s “to do” list, he establishes her worth. Before she ever says or does anything, He deems her worthy, apart from all works and He does it in such a way that we can never forget it. He doesn’t just label her adequate, but He raves about her, ranking her superior to the rarest, most exquisite stones. God’s woman is worth more than costly gems. That woman is you!
Your worth isn’t wrapped up in your accomplishments, possessions, job title, popularity, or looks. It isn’t about what others think of you, good or bad. It doesn’t even matter what you think of yourself. We can be our harshest critic, can’t we? Your worth has nothing to do with any of those things or even your ability to carry out the duties listed in Proverbs 31. You are precious to God simply because you are His child.
The truth is that one day you did have a price tag hanging on you. I Corinthians 6:20 says, “you were bought with a price.” Yet, you weren’t cheap. In fact, it cost God everything to purchase you for Himself. You are one valuable lady, a woman deeply loved and valued by God. You mean the world and all to Him!
Prayer:
Father, when I’m tempted to look down on myself or feel unworthy, help me to hold my head high, knowing that my value doesn’t come from my own feelings, but from You. You say I’m valuable and that is enough. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application Steps:
Make eye contact with yourself in a mirror and repeat after me: I have value. I have worth. No matter how I feel, God’s word is true. He loves me. He values me. I am important.
Reflections:
Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry or maybe a certain type of stone that sets your heart a pitter-patter? Take a few moments to think about the beautiful facets of those gems. Ask God to bring this picture to mind when you start to thinking negative thoughts about yourself.
Friday, August 10, 2007
GOD IS FAITHFUL TO US
“Bucket of Blessings”
By Zoë Elmore
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Devotion:
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
By Zoë Elmore
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Devotion:
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.
Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.
We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.
Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.
Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.
Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
TEACH MY HEART
Teach my heart to sing,
to find sweet melodies
for every living thing.
Teach my heart to love,
to share with the unlovable
hope from above.
Teach my heart to weep,
to shed soul cleansing tears
when sorrow's deep.
Teach my heart to pray,
that I may offer praise along the way.
And teach my heart to care,
when there's no one else
let me be there.
~Dorothy Miller Birdwell~
to find sweet melodies
for every living thing.
Teach my heart to love,
to share with the unlovable
hope from above.
Teach my heart to weep,
to shed soul cleansing tears
when sorrow's deep.
Teach my heart to pray,
that I may offer praise along the way.
And teach my heart to care,
when there's no one else
let me be there.
~Dorothy Miller Birdwell~
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
WHERE'S THE FRUIT?
One day I was talking to someone about the pecan trees in our backyard. They told me that they remembered one specific tree that yielded a double pecan. Their comment caused me to start thinking. It is the purpose of that particular pecan tree to yield that specific type of pecan, just as it is the purpose of our fig trees to yield figs in the appropriate season. Every creation of God has a purpose and he created us to produce. I’m not referring to procreation, but rather the spiritual production of fruit. My research took me to the book of Galatians.
Galatians 5:16-25
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
This scripture brought up new thoughts for me. If I choose to walk (live) in the flesh (old sinful nature), these are the fruits I will produce. On the other hand, if I choose to walk (live) in the spirit (new nature that God gives us) I will produce the good fruits.
What is it that causes all these good fruits to form? The key word is the same word that was verbalized to me regarding my pecan trees and that word was “Yield”. Just because a person accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Savior it doesn’t necessarily mean that all these good fruits (attributes) will suddenly appear. We expect to see fruit, but it comes with Christian Growth, Maturity and Holiness. We cannot continue to do the same things as we’ve always done them (our way). We must be obedient to God and his Word and “Yield” ourselves and our wills to him. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and lives each day we will begin to bear his fruit.
Matthew 7:16-18,20
“By their fruits you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit , and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit…Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”
What kind of fruit are you yielding?
Galatians 5:16-25
16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
This scripture brought up new thoughts for me. If I choose to walk (live) in the flesh (old sinful nature), these are the fruits I will produce. On the other hand, if I choose to walk (live) in the spirit (new nature that God gives us) I will produce the good fruits.
What is it that causes all these good fruits to form? The key word is the same word that was verbalized to me regarding my pecan trees and that word was “Yield”. Just because a person accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Savior it doesn’t necessarily mean that all these good fruits (attributes) will suddenly appear. We expect to see fruit, but it comes with Christian Growth, Maturity and Holiness. We cannot continue to do the same things as we’ve always done them (our way). We must be obedient to God and his Word and “Yield” ourselves and our wills to him. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and lives each day we will begin to bear his fruit.
Matthew 7:16-18,20
“By their fruits you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit , and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit…Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”
What kind of fruit are you yielding?
Monday, August 6, 2007
TO LIVE A HOLY LIFE
There is a famous quote from Coleridge’s The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and dates from 1798 that says “Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink”:
All around us, everywhere we look there is sin. Sometimes it feels like we are 1 tiny drop of water in a big ocean. How does the born again child of God live a holy life?
The word tell us in
II Cor. 6:17
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
I John 2:15
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
Rom. 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Child of God, it is a choice that you must personally make each and every day of your life. I Thessalonians 5:22 says “Abstain from all appearance of evil”.
To abstain simply means to separate yourself from it, don’t be a part of or partake of it.
You must make a choice who you will obey, God or Satan.
Matthew 6:24
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
The things of the world are all around us. We cannot escape the evil and sin of this world, but we don’t have to participate in it. You are here because God has placed you here in this world. You are to be a light shining in the darkness.
There is an old hymn “What you Are” and the words are:
“What you are speaks so loud, that the world can’t hear what you say,
The’re looking at your walk, not listening to your talk,
The’re judging from your actions everyday.
Don’t believe that you deceive,
By claiming what you’ve never know.
They’ll accept what they see and know you to be.
They’ll judge from your life alone.”
I love the old saying and I’m not even certain exactly how to quote it or who wrote it, but it says, You may be the only Bible/Sermon someone ever sees.
My friend, you are a chosen vessel that God wants to use to bring the lost to him by using you as an example of him. Is you’re life a holy shining example of God to those around you?
All around us, everywhere we look there is sin. Sometimes it feels like we are 1 tiny drop of water in a big ocean. How does the born again child of God live a holy life?
The word tell us in
II Cor. 6:17
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,
I John 2:15
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
Rom. 12:2
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Child of God, it is a choice that you must personally make each and every day of your life. I Thessalonians 5:22 says “Abstain from all appearance of evil”.
To abstain simply means to separate yourself from it, don’t be a part of or partake of it.
You must make a choice who you will obey, God or Satan.
Matthew 6:24
No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
The things of the world are all around us. We cannot escape the evil and sin of this world, but we don’t have to participate in it. You are here because God has placed you here in this world. You are to be a light shining in the darkness.
There is an old hymn “What you Are” and the words are:
“What you are speaks so loud, that the world can’t hear what you say,
The’re looking at your walk, not listening to your talk,
The’re judging from your actions everyday.
Don’t believe that you deceive,
By claiming what you’ve never know.
They’ll accept what they see and know you to be.
They’ll judge from your life alone.”
I love the old saying and I’m not even certain exactly how to quote it or who wrote it, but it says, You may be the only Bible/Sermon someone ever sees.
My friend, you are a chosen vessel that God wants to use to bring the lost to him by using you as an example of him. Is you’re life a holy shining example of God to those around you?
Friday, August 3, 2007
NEGATIVE CONFESSION
Negative Confession
By: Joyce Meyer (from The Joy of Believing Prayer)
"If we want our prayers to be answered, we can't pray and then negate them with a negative confession. Let's say a mother is praying for a son who's having trouble in school. So she prays the prayer of faith and believes God for a breakthrough. Then she goes to lunch with two neighbors and spends the next hour saying, "I am so sick of these problems I'm having with this kid. Why me?"
This kind of negative confession wipes your prayer slate clean. You might as well not even waste your time praying until you make a decision to get your mouth in line with your prayers.
When the neighbors ask how your son is doing, say, "You know what? In the natural things have not changed a whole lot, but I'm praying for him, and I have assurance in my heart that God is doing a mighty work in his life."
Once you have laid hold of the answer through faith, then you need to make sure your confession is in agreement with what you've asked God to do. Don't let the devil trip you up when people ask you questions that you could answer negatively. Answer them with a positive confession of the Word of God."
By: Joyce Meyer (from The Joy of Believing Prayer)
"If we want our prayers to be answered, we can't pray and then negate them with a negative confession. Let's say a mother is praying for a son who's having trouble in school. So she prays the prayer of faith and believes God for a breakthrough. Then she goes to lunch with two neighbors and spends the next hour saying, "I am so sick of these problems I'm having with this kid. Why me?"
This kind of negative confession wipes your prayer slate clean. You might as well not even waste your time praying until you make a decision to get your mouth in line with your prayers.
When the neighbors ask how your son is doing, say, "You know what? In the natural things have not changed a whole lot, but I'm praying for him, and I have assurance in my heart that God is doing a mighty work in his life."
Once you have laid hold of the answer through faith, then you need to make sure your confession is in agreement with what you've asked God to do. Don't let the devil trip you up when people ask you questions that you could answer negatively. Answer them with a positive confession of the Word of God."
A TEACHABLE HEART
I received this email devotion and it really made me stop and think "Do I really take the time to listen to God to see what he is teaching me? Not only to hear him, but to apply it to my life."
A Teachable Heart
By: Lysa TerKeurst
Isaiah 2:3, “He will teach us his ways so that we may walk in his paths.” (NIV)
Devotion:
As a mom, I often find myself in the role of teacher and instructor. Whether I am showing them how to tie their shoes, how to ride a bike, or how to finish their homework, I love teaching my kids how to do new things. I rejoice when they succeed and try my best to guide them in the way that is right and best for them. However, my teaching and instruction can only work if they are willing to listen and receive what I have to share.
Today’s key verse tells us that God teaches and instruct us, His children, how to do godly things so we may walk in the paths that are right according to His Word. Just as I want my children to follow my instruction so they are successful, our Heavenly Father also wants to see us succeed. But in order for that to happen, we must also be willing to receive and take in the things God has to share with us. Thankfully, He loves us enough to do whatever it takes to keep us on the right path—a path that leads to Him.
In Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses tells the Israelite people, “He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (NIV).
We can find God’s instruction throughout the Bible. If we want to know how to make our plans succeed, we can go to His Word for answers. He is there for us just as we are there for our kids. His character is woven into every story; His wisdom etched in every line of the text. All we have to do is look.
Unfortunately, when we ignore the instruction God maps out for us in His Word, we end up having to learn through a harder path that may be much more painful. That is why having a teachable heart is so important. As I long for my children to be continually open to my instruction for their benefit, God wants us to be open to His teaching for our benefit. The farmer who continually has to thresh his crop brings about no harvest. Don’t give God a reason to keep threshing you before you make an impact for Him. Will you be willing to humble yourself and submit to all the incredible things that He has to teach you today?
A Teachable Heart
By: Lysa TerKeurst
Isaiah 2:3, “He will teach us his ways so that we may walk in his paths.” (NIV)
Devotion:
As a mom, I often find myself in the role of teacher and instructor. Whether I am showing them how to tie their shoes, how to ride a bike, or how to finish their homework, I love teaching my kids how to do new things. I rejoice when they succeed and try my best to guide them in the way that is right and best for them. However, my teaching and instruction can only work if they are willing to listen and receive what I have to share.
Today’s key verse tells us that God teaches and instruct us, His children, how to do godly things so we may walk in the paths that are right according to His Word. Just as I want my children to follow my instruction so they are successful, our Heavenly Father also wants to see us succeed. But in order for that to happen, we must also be willing to receive and take in the things God has to share with us. Thankfully, He loves us enough to do whatever it takes to keep us on the right path—a path that leads to Him.
In Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses tells the Israelite people, “He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (NIV).
We can find God’s instruction throughout the Bible. If we want to know how to make our plans succeed, we can go to His Word for answers. He is there for us just as we are there for our kids. His character is woven into every story; His wisdom etched in every line of the text. All we have to do is look.
Unfortunately, when we ignore the instruction God maps out for us in His Word, we end up having to learn through a harder path that may be much more painful. That is why having a teachable heart is so important. As I long for my children to be continually open to my instruction for their benefit, God wants us to be open to His teaching for our benefit. The farmer who continually has to thresh his crop brings about no harvest. Don’t give God a reason to keep threshing you before you make an impact for Him. Will you be willing to humble yourself and submit to all the incredible things that He has to teach you today?
Thursday, August 2, 2007
FEAR
FEARS
By: Tim Nadeau (New Mexico, U.S.A.)
Job 5:8-27 (NRSV)"As for me, I would seek God, and to God I would commit my cause. He does great things and unsearchable, marvelous things without number. He gives rain on the earth and sends waters on the fields; he sets on high those who are lowly, and those who mourn are lifted to safety. He frustrates the devices of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He takes the wise in their own craftiness; and the schemes of the wily are brought to a quick end. They meet with darkness in the daytime, and grope at noonday as in the night. But he saves the needy from the sword of their mouth, from the hand of the mighty. So the poor have hope, and injustice shuts its mouth. "How happy is the one whom God reproves; therefore do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up; he strikes, but his hands heal. He will deliver you from six troubles; in seven no harm shall touch you. In famine he will redeem you from death, and in war from the power of the sword. You shall be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and shall not fear destruction when it comes. At destruction and famine you shall laugh, and shall not fear the wild animals of the earth. For you shall be in league with the stones of the field, and the wild animals shall be at peace with you. You shall know that your tent is safe, you shall inspect your fold and miss nothing. You shall know that your descendants will be many, and your offspring like the grass of the earth. You shall come to your grave in ripe old age, as a shock of grain comes up to the threshing floor in its season. See, we have searched this out; it is true. Hear, and know it for yourself."
You did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption.- Romans 8:15 (NRSV)
MY wife had gone out to gather the eggs from our chickens. I followed soon afterwards, but my wife was nowhere to be seen or heard. I called her name and got no response. The chicken coop door was open so I peeked in. My wife wascrouched down next to a nest of eggs. To her left, a bull snake lay coiled. Although it was non-poisonous and non-threatening, it appeared as if it were. She would not move because she feared the snake. Fear is a powerful force that can prevent us from doing anything. Those who have experienced the crippling effects of psychological fear know that"paralyzed with fear" is not just an expression. Such fear can prevent us from accomplishing even the simplest task. When we rely on ourselves and then fail, this self-reliance promotes fear. In addition, feelings that the Lord is distant or unconcerned with our situation can cause a reaction of panic and fear. In contrast, God's love and assurances can remove our fear. When we trust and lean on God, earthly concerns are crowded out. David wrote, "I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (Ps. 23:4,niv). Many times in scripture God promises never to leave or forsake us. We can have peace instead of fear if we trust God's word to us.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Rom. 8:31, NIV)--
By: Tim Nadeau (New Mexico, U.S.A.)
Job 5:8-27 (NRSV)"As for me, I would seek God, and to God I would commit my cause. He does great things and unsearchable, marvelous things without number. He gives rain on the earth and sends waters on the fields; he sets on high those who are lowly, and those who mourn are lifted to safety. He frustrates the devices of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He takes the wise in their own craftiness; and the schemes of the wily are brought to a quick end. They meet with darkness in the daytime, and grope at noonday as in the night. But he saves the needy from the sword of their mouth, from the hand of the mighty. So the poor have hope, and injustice shuts its mouth. "How happy is the one whom God reproves; therefore do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he binds up; he strikes, but his hands heal. He will deliver you from six troubles; in seven no harm shall touch you. In famine he will redeem you from death, and in war from the power of the sword. You shall be hidden from the scourge of the tongue, and shall not fear destruction when it comes. At destruction and famine you shall laugh, and shall not fear the wild animals of the earth. For you shall be in league with the stones of the field, and the wild animals shall be at peace with you. You shall know that your tent is safe, you shall inspect your fold and miss nothing. You shall know that your descendants will be many, and your offspring like the grass of the earth. You shall come to your grave in ripe old age, as a shock of grain comes up to the threshing floor in its season. See, we have searched this out; it is true. Hear, and know it for yourself."
You did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption.- Romans 8:15 (NRSV)
MY wife had gone out to gather the eggs from our chickens. I followed soon afterwards, but my wife was nowhere to be seen or heard. I called her name and got no response. The chicken coop door was open so I peeked in. My wife wascrouched down next to a nest of eggs. To her left, a bull snake lay coiled. Although it was non-poisonous and non-threatening, it appeared as if it were. She would not move because she feared the snake. Fear is a powerful force that can prevent us from doing anything. Those who have experienced the crippling effects of psychological fear know that"paralyzed with fear" is not just an expression. Such fear can prevent us from accomplishing even the simplest task. When we rely on ourselves and then fail, this self-reliance promotes fear. In addition, feelings that the Lord is distant or unconcerned with our situation can cause a reaction of panic and fear. In contrast, God's love and assurances can remove our fear. When we trust and lean on God, earthly concerns are crowded out. David wrote, "I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (Ps. 23:4,niv). Many times in scripture God promises never to leave or forsake us. We can have peace instead of fear if we trust God's word to us.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Rom. 8:31, NIV)--
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT
I’ve heard all my life “when life hands you lemons, make lemonade”. Yeah Yeah Yeah. Sometimes it seems that life not only has handed me lemons, but rotten lemons at that. So no lemonade for me!!!
As we go through life the Bible tells us in John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." So we know that we are going to have things happen in our lives. Things that are not pleasant and we really don’t want to face. However, Paul also wrote in Romans 5: 1-5 1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience,; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Sometimes, I know when I’m going through trials and tribulations in my own life I can’t seem to “see the forest for the trees” as the old saying goes. All I can focus on is the problem(s). So my problem(s) seem to get bigger and worse as seconds tick away. I love how T.D. Jakes describes this type of thing in his book “Woman Thou Art Loosed”. He used the scripture from Genesis 3:16 “Unto the woman He said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children…” He went on to write “God explained that birthing comes through sorrow. Everything you bring forth comes through pain. If it didn’t come through pain, it probably wasn’t worth much. If you’re going to bring forth—and I’m not merely talking about babies, I’m talking about birthing vision and purpose—you will do so with sorrow and pain. If you’re going to bring forth anything in your career, your marriage or your life, if you’re going to develop anything in your character, if you’re going to be a fruitful woman, it’s going to come through sorrow. It will come through the things you suffer. You will enter into strength through sorrow. You will give birth! That’s why you have suffered pain. Your spirit is signaling you that something is trying to get through. Don’t become so preoccupied with the pain that you forget to push the baby. Sometimes you’re pushing the pain and not the baby, and you’re so engrossed with what’s hurting you that you’re not doing what it takes to produce fruit in your life. When you see sorrow multiply, it is a sign that God is getting ready to send something to you. Don’t settle for the pain and not get the benefit. Hold out. Disregard the pain and get the promise.”
We need to change what we are looking at and David said it best in Psalms 121:1 "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help." And by no means should we ever just give up. We should follow Paul’s example in Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
Hold On and don't give up because we know that we have a promise in Psalms 30:5b "…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
As we go through life the Bible tells us in John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." So we know that we are going to have things happen in our lives. Things that are not pleasant and we really don’t want to face. However, Paul also wrote in Romans 5: 1-5 1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience,; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
Sometimes, I know when I’m going through trials and tribulations in my own life I can’t seem to “see the forest for the trees” as the old saying goes. All I can focus on is the problem(s). So my problem(s) seem to get bigger and worse as seconds tick away. I love how T.D. Jakes describes this type of thing in his book “Woman Thou Art Loosed”. He used the scripture from Genesis 3:16 “Unto the woman He said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children…” He went on to write “God explained that birthing comes through sorrow. Everything you bring forth comes through pain. If it didn’t come through pain, it probably wasn’t worth much. If you’re going to bring forth—and I’m not merely talking about babies, I’m talking about birthing vision and purpose—you will do so with sorrow and pain. If you’re going to bring forth anything in your career, your marriage or your life, if you’re going to develop anything in your character, if you’re going to be a fruitful woman, it’s going to come through sorrow. It will come through the things you suffer. You will enter into strength through sorrow. You will give birth! That’s why you have suffered pain. Your spirit is signaling you that something is trying to get through. Don’t become so preoccupied with the pain that you forget to push the baby. Sometimes you’re pushing the pain and not the baby, and you’re so engrossed with what’s hurting you that you’re not doing what it takes to produce fruit in your life. When you see sorrow multiply, it is a sign that God is getting ready to send something to you. Don’t settle for the pain and not get the benefit. Hold out. Disregard the pain and get the promise.”
We need to change what we are looking at and David said it best in Psalms 121:1 "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help." And by no means should we ever just give up. We should follow Paul’s example in Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
Hold On and don't give up because we know that we have a promise in Psalms 30:5b "…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
HOW DO I BALANCE MY LIFE
Have you ever felt like you were on a never ending carrousel or roller coaster ride that was progressively going faster and faster and faster as it spun around? All you could think of was the old TV commercial where the woman would say “Calgon take me away”. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to soak in a hot tub water with a bath product and then all your stress go down the drain with the bath water?
Over the years I’ve heard my Pastor say many times “There Must Be Balance”. He would also ask “Who loaded your wagon?”
These thoughts bring back to my memory a Bible story I’ve heard since I was a child. The story is found in Luke 10:36-42 and is the story of two sisters, Mary and Martha. When I read this story I am reminded that my nature and natural instincts is to be a Martha, the busy one. There is no doubt in my mind that these two sisters were included in The Bible for a special purpose. That purpose is to show us the “Balance” that is needed in each of our lives. Being a Martha, I would have reacted the same way she did in verse 40 when she ask Jesus, “Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me.” However, after many years of being a wife, a mother, a career woman, very actively involved in my Church I have learned some valuable lessons from these two sisters that I would like to share with you.
Recently, I was reading an article by Joyce Meyers who wrote “A life that is out of balance is a life with an open door to the enemy. Satan absolutely loves to see people living at one extreme or another because it gives him an opportunity to bring devastation into their lives.” She used “I Peter 5:8 that warns us to be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil roams around like a lion roaring (in fierce hunger), seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” “Satan can’t just devour anybody he wants, but he can devour someone who is out of balance…Too many people are under so much stress that it’s killing them, and part of the reason is because we’re a society that is driven to DO things, HAVE things, and GO places. This is the opposite of how God wants us to live. Instead of being ‘driven,’ He wants us to be led by His Spirit.”
I’ve found personally that in order to be Balanced not only must we be a Martha, but we must at the same time be a Mary by:
1. Not always saying “YES” to everything I’m asked to do. Seek God’s Will and find out what GOD wants you to do.
2. Keeping my priorities straight. Keep a Daily Planner or a Daily List.
3. Occasionally having to cut out some activities in my life and move forward. I must take inventory of my activities and pray about what GOD wants me to involve myself in. I must also acknowledge that if I am performing tasks that are robbing me of my peace and joy and only bring frustration, stress and chaos then these tasks may not be for me to perform. Matthew 11: 28-30 says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
4. Going to Church is a must. I need to have the Word of God nourishing my spirit.
5. Make time to commune with God. A time each day to read God’s Word and pray.
6. Set aside special time for myself and my family to spend time together.
7. Make sure you are getting enough rest for your body. When I am extremely tired and exhausted is when Satan attacks.
Enjoy the life that God has given you. Enjoy your family, friends and Church family. Life is too short to waste precious time running. Live, Love and Laugh.
Over the years I’ve heard my Pastor say many times “There Must Be Balance”. He would also ask “Who loaded your wagon?”
These thoughts bring back to my memory a Bible story I’ve heard since I was a child. The story is found in Luke 10:36-42 and is the story of two sisters, Mary and Martha. When I read this story I am reminded that my nature and natural instincts is to be a Martha, the busy one. There is no doubt in my mind that these two sisters were included in The Bible for a special purpose. That purpose is to show us the “Balance” that is needed in each of our lives. Being a Martha, I would have reacted the same way she did in verse 40 when she ask Jesus, “Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me.” However, after many years of being a wife, a mother, a career woman, very actively involved in my Church I have learned some valuable lessons from these two sisters that I would like to share with you.
Recently, I was reading an article by Joyce Meyers who wrote “A life that is out of balance is a life with an open door to the enemy. Satan absolutely loves to see people living at one extreme or another because it gives him an opportunity to bring devastation into their lives.” She used “I Peter 5:8 that warns us to be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil roams around like a lion roaring (in fierce hunger), seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” “Satan can’t just devour anybody he wants, but he can devour someone who is out of balance…Too many people are under so much stress that it’s killing them, and part of the reason is because we’re a society that is driven to DO things, HAVE things, and GO places. This is the opposite of how God wants us to live. Instead of being ‘driven,’ He wants us to be led by His Spirit.”
I’ve found personally that in order to be Balanced not only must we be a Martha, but we must at the same time be a Mary by:
1. Not always saying “YES” to everything I’m asked to do. Seek God’s Will and find out what GOD wants you to do.
2. Keeping my priorities straight. Keep a Daily Planner or a Daily List.
3. Occasionally having to cut out some activities in my life and move forward. I must take inventory of my activities and pray about what GOD wants me to involve myself in. I must also acknowledge that if I am performing tasks that are robbing me of my peace and joy and only bring frustration, stress and chaos then these tasks may not be for me to perform. Matthew 11: 28-30 says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
4. Going to Church is a must. I need to have the Word of God nourishing my spirit.
5. Make time to commune with God. A time each day to read God’s Word and pray.
6. Set aside special time for myself and my family to spend time together.
7. Make sure you are getting enough rest for your body. When I am extremely tired and exhausted is when Satan attacks.
Enjoy the life that God has given you. Enjoy your family, friends and Church family. Life is too short to waste precious time running. Live, Love and Laugh.
DO YOU EVER FEEL INSIGNIFICANT
Do you ever feel insignificant? Do you ever ask yourself "What's the use" or "What's the difference"?
Check out what Roy Lessen has to say about it......
"When a stone is dropped into a lake,
It quickly disappears from sight—
But its impact leaves behind
A series of ripples that broaden
And reach across the water.
In the same way, the impact of
One life lived for Christ
Will leave behind an influence for good
That will reach the lives of
Many others."
Never forget what David wrote in Psalms 139:7-16
7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
God created you for that one very special Plan and Purpose and you were created in the image of God himself.
I love the old saying "God doesn't make junk". YOU ARE SOMEBODY SPECIAL!!!!!
Check out what Roy Lessen has to say about it......
"When a stone is dropped into a lake,
It quickly disappears from sight—
But its impact leaves behind
A series of ripples that broaden
And reach across the water.
In the same way, the impact of
One life lived for Christ
Will leave behind an influence for good
That will reach the lives of
Many others."
Never forget what David wrote in Psalms 139:7-16
7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
God created you for that one very special Plan and Purpose and you were created in the image of God himself.
I love the old saying "God doesn't make junk". YOU ARE SOMEBODY SPECIAL!!!!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
What is Success
When you think of a successful person, what immediately comes to your thoughts? Do you think of the CEO of a large corporation, a Monarch in a foreign land, winning the lottery or perhaps a movie star?
According to Webster, success is "Gaining of wealth and fame, favorable outcome, one that succeeds."
As I was reading The Purpose Driven Life's Daily Inspiration by Rick Warren, I was moved by his explanation and thoughts. "In God's eyes, the greatest heroes of the faith are not those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who treat this life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their promised reward in eternity."
Hebrews 11:13, 16
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
I'm afraid that in our hectic pace of life we so easily forget that success in God's eyes is much different than man's thoughts. Before you assess yourself as a failure or unsuccessful, ask yourself.....
What are you doing for the Kingdom to be Successful by God's standards?
According to Webster, success is "Gaining of wealth and fame, favorable outcome, one that succeeds."
As I was reading The Purpose Driven Life's Daily Inspiration by Rick Warren, I was moved by his explanation and thoughts. "In God's eyes, the greatest heroes of the faith are not those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who treat this life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their promised reward in eternity."
Hebrews 11:13, 16
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
I'm afraid that in our hectic pace of life we so easily forget that success in God's eyes is much different than man's thoughts. Before you assess yourself as a failure or unsuccessful, ask yourself.....
- Have I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior and is he living in my heart?
- Am I a joint heir with Jesus Christ?
- Did I wake up this morning alive?
- Do I live in America (the land of the free and the brave) where I am free to serve God?
- When was my last meal?
- Did I have clothes to put on this morning?
What are you doing for the Kingdom to be Successful by God's standards?
Monday, July 30, 2007
He is God
When you are feeling down and discouraged, this is a powerful email forward I received that helps to lift you and reassure you who God is and how much he loves you.......
HE IS GOD
Author unknown
He is the First and Last,The Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.He always was, He always is, and He always will be ...unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!He was pierced and eased pain!He was persecuted and brought freedom!He was dead and brought life!He is risen and brings power!He reigns and brings Peace!The world can't understand him,The armies can't defeat Him,The schools can't explain Him, and The leaders can't ignore Him.Herod couldn't kill Him, The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and The people couldn't hold Him!Nero couldn't crush Him, Hitler couldn't silence Him,The New Age can't replace Him, and "Oprah" can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,His word is eternal,His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.He is my Savior,He is my guide, and He is my peace!He is my Joy,He is my comfort,He is my Lord, and He rules my life!
I serve Him because His bond is love,His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and is to come. And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME!He will never leave me,never forsake me,never mislead me,never forget me,never overlook me andnever cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up!When I fail, He forgives!When I am weak, He is strong!When I am lost, He is the way!When I am afraid, He is my courage!When I stumble, He steadies me!When I am hurt, He heals me!When I am broken, He mends me!When I am blind, He leads me!When I am hungry, He feeds me!When I face trials, He is with me!When I face persecution, He shields me! When I face problems, He comforts me!When I face loss, He provides for me!When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God, He is faithful. I am His, and He is mine!
My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.God is in control, I am on His side,and that means all is well with my soul.
Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!
HE IS GOD
Author unknown
He is the First and Last,The Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.He always was, He always is, and He always will be ...unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!He was pierced and eased pain!He was persecuted and brought freedom!He was dead and brought life!He is risen and brings power!He reigns and brings Peace!The world can't understand him,The armies can't defeat Him,The schools can't explain Him, and The leaders can't ignore Him.Herod couldn't kill Him, The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and The people couldn't hold Him!Nero couldn't crush Him, Hitler couldn't silence Him,The New Age can't replace Him, and "Oprah" can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,His word is eternal,His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.He is my Savior,He is my guide, and He is my peace!He is my Joy,He is my comfort,He is my Lord, and He rules my life!
I serve Him because His bond is love,His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and is to come. And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME!He will never leave me,never forsake me,never mislead me,never forget me,never overlook me andnever cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up!When I fail, He forgives!When I am weak, He is strong!When I am lost, He is the way!When I am afraid, He is my courage!When I stumble, He steadies me!When I am hurt, He heals me!When I am broken, He mends me!When I am blind, He leads me!When I am hungry, He feeds me!When I face trials, He is with me!When I face persecution, He shields me! When I face problems, He comforts me!When I face loss, He provides for me!When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God, He is faithful. I am His, and He is mine!
My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.God is in control, I am on His side,and that means all is well with my soul.
Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!
When You are Down to Nothing (Prayer)
An email buddy sent this forward to me. It is a powerful prayer. There was no acknowledgement as to who wrote it when I received it so I acknowledge.....
By: unknown author
WHEN YOU ARE DOWN TO NOTHING…GOD IS UP TO SOMETHING
FATHER, IN THE NAME OF JESUS, BLESS ME EVEN WHILE I’M READING THIS PRAYER.
OPEN SUPERNATURAL DOORS IN OUR LIVES TODAY.
SAVE AND SET FREE! GIVE US A DOUBLE PORTION OF YOUR SPIRIT AS WE TAKE BACK EVERYTHING THAT THE DEVIL HAS STOLEN;
EMOTIONAL HEALTH, PHYSICAL HEALTH, FINANCES, RELATIONSHIPS CHILDREN, JOBS, HOMES MARRIAGES
I CANCEL EVERY PLOT, PLAN AND SCHEME THE ENEMY HAS DEVISED AGAINST US IN THE MATCHLESS NAME OF JESUS.
NO WEAPON THAT IS FORMED AGAINST US WILL PROSPER, THIS IS OUR HERITAGE FROM THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY.
I SPEAK LIFE INTO EVERY DEAD AND TROUBLESOME SITUATION.
I THANK YOU THAT NOTHING IS OVER UNTIL YOU SAY IT IS OVER!
I SPEAK PROPHETICALLY INTO OUR LIVES AND TO OUR SITUATIONS:
OUR HOUSEHOLDS ARE BLESSED!
WE ARE HEALED IN THE NAME OF JESUS AND OUR HEALTH IS BLESSED!
OUR FINANCES ARE BLESSED!
OUR JOBS AND BUSINESSES ARE BLESSED!
OUR CHILDREN ARE BLESSED!
OUR GRANDCHILDREN ARE BLESSED!
OUR PARENTS ARE BLESSED!
OUR SIBLINGS ARE BLESSED!
THE LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE BLESSED!
OUR PASTORAL STAFF ARE BLESSED!
OUR CHURCH IS BLESSED!
THE PASTORS AND MISSIONARIES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES ARE BLESSED!
OUR DECISIONS ARE BLESSED!
FOR THOSE DESIRING MATES, HUSBAND AND/OR WIVES ARE ON THE WAY
MORTGAGES FOR HOMES ARE MADE AVAILABLE AND POSSIBLE
MORTGAGES AND DEBTS ARE CANCELLED
OUR HEARTS DESIRES ARE ON THE WAY
ACCORDING TO YOUR PERFECT WILL AND PLAN FOR OUR LIVES
WE PRAY IN JESUS NAME
AMEN
By: unknown author
WHEN YOU ARE DOWN TO NOTHING…GOD IS UP TO SOMETHING
FATHER, IN THE NAME OF JESUS, BLESS ME EVEN WHILE I’M READING THIS PRAYER.
OPEN SUPERNATURAL DOORS IN OUR LIVES TODAY.
SAVE AND SET FREE! GIVE US A DOUBLE PORTION OF YOUR SPIRIT AS WE TAKE BACK EVERYTHING THAT THE DEVIL HAS STOLEN;
EMOTIONAL HEALTH, PHYSICAL HEALTH, FINANCES, RELATIONSHIPS CHILDREN, JOBS, HOMES MARRIAGES
I CANCEL EVERY PLOT, PLAN AND SCHEME THE ENEMY HAS DEVISED AGAINST US IN THE MATCHLESS NAME OF JESUS.
NO WEAPON THAT IS FORMED AGAINST US WILL PROSPER, THIS IS OUR HERITAGE FROM THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY.
I SPEAK LIFE INTO EVERY DEAD AND TROUBLESOME SITUATION.
I THANK YOU THAT NOTHING IS OVER UNTIL YOU SAY IT IS OVER!
I SPEAK PROPHETICALLY INTO OUR LIVES AND TO OUR SITUATIONS:
OUR HOUSEHOLDS ARE BLESSED!
WE ARE HEALED IN THE NAME OF JESUS AND OUR HEALTH IS BLESSED!
OUR FINANCES ARE BLESSED!
OUR JOBS AND BUSINESSES ARE BLESSED!
OUR CHILDREN ARE BLESSED!
OUR GRANDCHILDREN ARE BLESSED!
OUR PARENTS ARE BLESSED!
OUR SIBLINGS ARE BLESSED!
THE LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE BLESSED!
OUR PASTORAL STAFF ARE BLESSED!
OUR CHURCH IS BLESSED!
THE PASTORS AND MISSIONARIES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES ARE BLESSED!
OUR DECISIONS ARE BLESSED!
FOR THOSE DESIRING MATES, HUSBAND AND/OR WIVES ARE ON THE WAY
MORTGAGES FOR HOMES ARE MADE AVAILABLE AND POSSIBLE
MORTGAGES AND DEBTS ARE CANCELLED
OUR HEARTS DESIRES ARE ON THE WAY
ACCORDING TO YOUR PERFECT WILL AND PLAN FOR OUR LIVES
WE PRAY IN JESUS NAME
AMEN
Bloom Where you Are Planted
God has been revealing to me a great truth for a few weeks. I’ve heard sermons preached and lessons taught on “Bloom Where You Are Planted”. So I began searching and researching and I looked and looked and was driving myself crazy trying to find the scripture and even using online Bible searches for all translations, but could not find the scripture.
As much as I hate to admit it, I had heard it so much I just knew it was a scripture but finally had to swallow my pride and ask a dear Saint about it. She so lovingly explained to me that we hear these great quotes which actually do have scripture to back them up that we get them confused with actual scripture. I now look at it with great respect, the short little quote with such powerful meaning and intense motivation.
“Bloom Where You are Planted”
Many times in my life, especially in the past few years when I’ve felt like the whole foundation of my life was quaking and crumbling beneath my feet, I’ve seen my Faith and my Trust in my Heavenly Father growing by leaps and bounds. God has proven himself to me over and over. His love, his mercy, his grace and his provision has been no less than amazing.
I keep two little plaques on my office wall as reminders while I work. One says, “Faith is not believing God can…it is knowing that he WILL” and the other says, “Faith is resting in God’s love, His presence and His provision.” Not doubting God or his ability to take care of me through the trials in my life, my flesh still wonders from time to time How, When and What if.
This past Christmas my precious elderly aunt who loves flowers with a passion, gave everyone Amaryllis bulbs. If you’ve never seen one, they are sold in little red cartons. The little kit comes with either rocks or a very small amount of soil and instructions on planting the giant bulb in its own container. I took my 2 bulbs to work and decided to see what they would do. I followed the directions carefully and planted the bulbs. I stood back and shook my head with unbelief. More than half of the large bulbs where exposed and still above the tiny amount of soil provided and I thought “how can this thing do anything?” But I continued to keep them watered and within days they both sprouted. I remember leaving work on a Friday and when I returned on Monday I found a large strong stem at least eight inches high and what appeared to be an actual unopened bloom. I couldn’t believe it. I continued to let them have sun and I watered them as the instructions showed. Then another sprout came up just beside the first one. Before the week was up I saw more unopened blooms appear. My second bulb was a little slower, but it too began to show 1 large stem. Before I knew it and to my total amazement the first plant had six beautiful huge flower blooms on it, each about the size of my fist. Then my second bulb opened up and I had four beautiful blooms also the size of my fist coming straight out of the top of the stem. My co-workers would come by with amazement and admire my real flowers that were actually growing in my office! I too found myself sitting there staring at the flowers and then I my eyes went down to the giant bulbs barely planted in a small amount of soil. The bulbs produced and fulfilled its purpose even in less than an ideal and normal situation. The Lord spoke to me and said “Bloom Where You Are Planted”.
With that word from the Lord I began my search and while I could not find the scripture, I found great treasures of information and spiritually nourishing morsels that gave me strength and motivation.
By no means playing down or minimizing Paul’s teaching in Phillipians 4:11-13, I quickly realized that the quote had so much more depth and meaning for me than simply to be content in whatever situation I was in. I found myself pondering the fact that I can be thankful and content for what I have and for God’s gifts and blessings on my life, but what do I do in return with those gifts and blessings? Are my gifts and blessings blooming and producing? God’s gifts and blessings are to be more than things that make me content or happy. They have purpose and meaning and should bring forth blooms. Just like my giant bulbs that were planted in small plastic containers with a very small amount of soil bloomed above and beyond their normal one bloom each per year, I too am encouraged to know that God has planted me where I am in life and that God does not make mistakes or have judgment lapses, he has a plan and a purpose for me. I have his promise in Luke 18:27 that says, “Things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” He also promised me in Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them; for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Blooming where I am planted is a determined attitude to know (Colossians 1:10) “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;”
In my mind’s eye I remember a photo I took many years ago when my husband and I took a drive through the Texas Hill Country during wild flower season. We saw this beautiful hillside covered in Blue Bonnets and right in the center was one single little yellow Black Eyed Susie Daisy. It was definitely different and small, but it bloomed where it was planted and even in the midst of the grand splendor of that beautiful Blue Bonnet field, it stood out and made it presence known. I believe John Mason said it all when he said, “Develop an infinite capacity to ignore what others think can’t be done. Don’t just grow where you are planted. Bloom where you are Planted. No one can predict to what heights you can soar. Even you will not know until you spread your wings.”
Little is Much(When God is in It)Words and Music by Kittie L. Suffield1924
In the harvest field now ripenedThere’s a work for all to do;Hark! the voice of God is callingTo the harvest calling you.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
In the mad rush of the broad way,In the hurry and the strife,Tell of Jesus’ love and mercy,Give to them the Word of Life.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
Does the place you’re called to laborSeem too small and little known?It is great if God is in it,And He’ll not forget His own.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
Are you laid aside from service,Body worn from toil and care?You can still be in the battle,In the sacred place of prayer.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
When the conflict here is endedAnd our race on earth is run,He will say, if we are faithful,“Welcome home, My child - well done!”
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
As much as I hate to admit it, I had heard it so much I just knew it was a scripture but finally had to swallow my pride and ask a dear Saint about it. She so lovingly explained to me that we hear these great quotes which actually do have scripture to back them up that we get them confused with actual scripture. I now look at it with great respect, the short little quote with such powerful meaning and intense motivation.
“Bloom Where You are Planted”
Many times in my life, especially in the past few years when I’ve felt like the whole foundation of my life was quaking and crumbling beneath my feet, I’ve seen my Faith and my Trust in my Heavenly Father growing by leaps and bounds. God has proven himself to me over and over. His love, his mercy, his grace and his provision has been no less than amazing.
I keep two little plaques on my office wall as reminders while I work. One says, “Faith is not believing God can…it is knowing that he WILL” and the other says, “Faith is resting in God’s love, His presence and His provision.” Not doubting God or his ability to take care of me through the trials in my life, my flesh still wonders from time to time How, When and What if.
This past Christmas my precious elderly aunt who loves flowers with a passion, gave everyone Amaryllis bulbs. If you’ve never seen one, they are sold in little red cartons. The little kit comes with either rocks or a very small amount of soil and instructions on planting the giant bulb in its own container. I took my 2 bulbs to work and decided to see what they would do. I followed the directions carefully and planted the bulbs. I stood back and shook my head with unbelief. More than half of the large bulbs where exposed and still above the tiny amount of soil provided and I thought “how can this thing do anything?” But I continued to keep them watered and within days they both sprouted. I remember leaving work on a Friday and when I returned on Monday I found a large strong stem at least eight inches high and what appeared to be an actual unopened bloom. I couldn’t believe it. I continued to let them have sun and I watered them as the instructions showed. Then another sprout came up just beside the first one. Before the week was up I saw more unopened blooms appear. My second bulb was a little slower, but it too began to show 1 large stem. Before I knew it and to my total amazement the first plant had six beautiful huge flower blooms on it, each about the size of my fist. Then my second bulb opened up and I had four beautiful blooms also the size of my fist coming straight out of the top of the stem. My co-workers would come by with amazement and admire my real flowers that were actually growing in my office! I too found myself sitting there staring at the flowers and then I my eyes went down to the giant bulbs barely planted in a small amount of soil. The bulbs produced and fulfilled its purpose even in less than an ideal and normal situation. The Lord spoke to me and said “Bloom Where You Are Planted”.
With that word from the Lord I began my search and while I could not find the scripture, I found great treasures of information and spiritually nourishing morsels that gave me strength and motivation.
By no means playing down or minimizing Paul’s teaching in Phillipians 4:11-13, I quickly realized that the quote had so much more depth and meaning for me than simply to be content in whatever situation I was in. I found myself pondering the fact that I can be thankful and content for what I have and for God’s gifts and blessings on my life, but what do I do in return with those gifts and blessings? Are my gifts and blessings blooming and producing? God’s gifts and blessings are to be more than things that make me content or happy. They have purpose and meaning and should bring forth blooms. Just like my giant bulbs that were planted in small plastic containers with a very small amount of soil bloomed above and beyond their normal one bloom each per year, I too am encouraged to know that God has planted me where I am in life and that God does not make mistakes or have judgment lapses, he has a plan and a purpose for me. I have his promise in Luke 18:27 that says, “Things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” He also promised me in Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them; for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” Blooming where I am planted is a determined attitude to know (Colossians 1:10) “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;”
In my mind’s eye I remember a photo I took many years ago when my husband and I took a drive through the Texas Hill Country during wild flower season. We saw this beautiful hillside covered in Blue Bonnets and right in the center was one single little yellow Black Eyed Susie Daisy. It was definitely different and small, but it bloomed where it was planted and even in the midst of the grand splendor of that beautiful Blue Bonnet field, it stood out and made it presence known. I believe John Mason said it all when he said, “Develop an infinite capacity to ignore what others think can’t be done. Don’t just grow where you are planted. Bloom where you are Planted. No one can predict to what heights you can soar. Even you will not know until you spread your wings.”
Little is Much(When God is in It)Words and Music by Kittie L. Suffield1924
In the harvest field now ripenedThere’s a work for all to do;Hark! the voice of God is callingTo the harvest calling you.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
In the mad rush of the broad way,In the hurry and the strife,Tell of Jesus’ love and mercy,Give to them the Word of Life.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
Does the place you’re called to laborSeem too small and little known?It is great if God is in it,And He’ll not forget His own.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
Are you laid aside from service,Body worn from toil and care?You can still be in the battle,In the sacred place of prayer.
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
When the conflict here is endedAnd our race on earth is run,He will say, if we are faithful,“Welcome home, My child - well done!”
RefrainLittle is much when God is in it!Labor not for wealth or fame.There’s a crown and you can win it,If you go in Jesus’ Name.
The Importance of a Church Family
I don't know how people get through life without having a Church Family. A Church Family is so much more than just friends, church socials or who sits next to you on the pew.
A Church Family is your support network. These are the people you can count on when you are going through the storms of life. These are the people that will give you a hug when you need it, to pray with you and pray for you, stand with you, help you find strength for the moment. Church is so much more than Easter and Christmas service, it is more than where you get married or buried. Your Church Family is where you find lasting friendships, love, acceptance, encouragement and help in the time of need.
“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! … Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:10- 11 (NIV)
A Church Family is your support network. These are the people you can count on when you are going through the storms of life. These are the people that will give you a hug when you need it, to pray with you and pray for you, stand with you, help you find strength for the moment. Church is so much more than Easter and Christmas service, it is more than where you get married or buried. Your Church Family is where you find lasting friendships, love, acceptance, encouragement and help in the time of need.
“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! … Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:10- 11 (NIV)
Poem by: Helen Mallicoat
I was regretting the past and fearing the future.
Suddenly my Lord was speaking:
"MY NAME IS I AM"
He paused.
I waited. He continued,
"When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard. I am not there.
My name is not I Was.
When you live in the future, with its problems and fears, it is hard. I am not there.
My name is not I Will Be.
When you live in this moment, it is not hard. I am here.
My name is I AM.
Suddenly my Lord was speaking:
"MY NAME IS I AM"
He paused.
I waited. He continued,
"When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard. I am not there.
My name is not I Was.
When you live in the future, with its problems and fears, it is hard. I am not there.
My name is not I Will Be.
When you live in this moment, it is not hard. I am here.
My name is I AM.
P.O.P.
I am known to many friends and family as "The Crockpot Queen". During the 30 years of marriage I have gone thru at least 8 crockpots and I know I will soon be buying new ones. I believe every busy person needs a good crockpot and needs to learn how to use it.
At one time in our marriage, my husband was a truck driver and worked very long hours and then before his retirement he worked 19 years in a plant which was rotating shift work. I learned very early that in order to hold down a full time job, be a mother, maintain a household and spend time with my husband when he was off I had to be prepared at all times. I developed P.O.P. (Plan Organize Prepare). This plan has been shared with many and does work. Would you like to be able to forget drive through fast foods and be able to come home from work and have a real Dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less?
PLAN
At one time in our marriage, my husband was a truck driver and worked very long hours and then before his retirement he worked 19 years in a plant which was rotating shift work. I learned very early that in order to hold down a full time job, be a mother, maintain a household and spend time with my husband when he was off I had to be prepared at all times. I developed P.O.P. (Plan Organize Prepare). This plan has been shared with many and does work. Would you like to be able to forget drive through fast foods and be able to come home from work and have a real Dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less?
PLAN
- Sit down and plan your menu for 1 to 4 weeks.
- Plan what day you will set aside for preparation (mine was always a Saturday since I work Monday through Friday).
- Look at your menu and make another list from your menu of items you will need to prepare the meals. Be sure to add Freezer Bags and Heavy Duty Foil to your list. I also use the disposible Bowls too.
- Purchase your groceries the night before you cook. This way you don't have to freeze your meat and wait for it to thaw.
ORGANIZE
- Begin bright and early.
- With your menu in front of you Begin.
- Start by doing all your prep work at once (chopping and preparing ALL your vegetables you will be using such as onions, celery, carrots, etc.) and putting them into separate bowls.
- Decide which cooking methods you will be using such as crockpot, oven, stove top, etc. and getting each of them out and ready.
PREPARE
- Start Cooking.
For instance...I am preparing for 1 week and my menu consists of Roast Beef, Spaghetti, Baked Chicken, Chicken Fettecini, Meat Loaf, Chicken Pot Pie, Pork Chops with Apples and Split Pea Soup.
- I would season to taste and put my roast in the crock pot or oven, my chicken in the oven to start. I would mix my meat loaf, put it into my meatloaf pans. If there is room in my oven put it in to bake. Put my chicken on to boil for the chicken pot pie. Start grilling my chicken breasts for the Fettecini..... You get the picture.
- Next as your meals are complete, make sure you let them cool to room temperature, package them for the freezer in appropriate containers.
- Freeze.
TO PREPARE YOUR MEAL
- You must remember to take it out of the freezer the morning before you leave for work. Put in in the refrigerator to thaw all day.
- When you get home you can either just heat in the microwave or on top of the stove, quickly add a salad or some type of vegetable with it and you are ready to sit down to eat in 30 minutes or less.
- Clean up is also minimal because you have already washed all the Preparation dishes on your cooking day.
It is amazing what a little time invested (1 Full Day) in organizing and preparing ahead can mean to The Busy Person. Less stress and less time in the kitchen can mean more time with the family, time to soak in a hot bubble bath, time to read or just relax.
It is also a great way to teach your children how to cook...Get them involved in your P.O.P. and make it a family activity.
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