Merry Christmas Everyone!
May your day be filled with God's presence as we celebrate the birth of Christ!
Blessings,
Friday, December 24, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
ABC Scripture Verses
Here are some ABC Scripture verses that would be good to memorize during 2011. Give it a try!~
A – Above all else… Proverbs 4:23
B – Be joyful always…1 Thes 5:16-18
C – Commit to the Lord…Proverbs 16:3
D – Do not let any unwholesome talk…Ephesians 4:29
E – Every good and perfect gift…James 1:17
F – Find rest O my soul…Psalm 62:5
G- Give thanks to the Lord…Psalm 105:1
H – How great is the love…1 John 3:1
I – I Am the Alpha and the Omega…Rev 1:8
J – Jesus answered, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life…John 14:6
K – Keep your lives free from the love of money…Hebrews 13:5
L – Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…Hebrews 12:2
M – May the words of my mouth…Psalm 19:14
N – Not to us…Psalm 115:1
O – Open my eyes…Psalm 119:18
P – Peace I leave with you…John 14:27
Q – Be Quick to listen…James 1:19b
R – Rejoice in the Lord…Phil 4:4
S – Set your mind…Col 3:2
T – The Name of the Lord…Proverbs 18:10
U – Until now you have not…John 16:24
V – Victory rests with the Lord…Proverbs 21:31
W – What good is it…Mark 8:36
X – eXalt the Lord our God…Psalm 99:5
Y – You shall have no other gods…Exodus 20:3
Z – Zealous always for the fear…Proverbs 23:17
A – Above all else… Proverbs 4:23
B – Be joyful always…1 Thes 5:16-18
C – Commit to the Lord…Proverbs 16:3
D – Do not let any unwholesome talk…Ephesians 4:29
E – Every good and perfect gift…James 1:17
F – Find rest O my soul…Psalm 62:5
G- Give thanks to the Lord…Psalm 105:1
H – How great is the love…1 John 3:1
I – I Am the Alpha and the Omega…Rev 1:8
J – Jesus answered, I am the Way and the Truth and the Life…John 14:6
K – Keep your lives free from the love of money…Hebrews 13:5
L – Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…Hebrews 12:2
M – May the words of my mouth…Psalm 19:14
N – Not to us…Psalm 115:1
O – Open my eyes…Psalm 119:18
P – Peace I leave with you…John 14:27
Q – Be Quick to listen…James 1:19b
R – Rejoice in the Lord…Phil 4:4
S – Set your mind…Col 3:2
T – The Name of the Lord…Proverbs 18:10
U – Until now you have not…John 16:24
V – Victory rests with the Lord…Proverbs 21:31
W – What good is it…Mark 8:36
X – eXalt the Lord our God…Psalm 99:5
Y – You shall have no other gods…Exodus 20:3
Z – Zealous always for the fear…Proverbs 23:17
Blessings,
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Fruit of the Spirit - Patience
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter six – “Resting in Patience.”
The fruit of the Spirit is…patience. Galatians 5:22
“How can we continue to walk by the Spirit and not succumb to the flesh when we are assaulted by people? Handling people in a gracious, Christlike manner presents a real test for us. But thank God that He gives us three more graces, three more fruit – patience, kindness and goodness – for managing the strain of personal relationships. Reaching out to others requires that we take action – the actions of patience, kindness, and goodness as we walk by the Spirit.”
Scripture tells us we are to dress our spirit each morning with the godly quality of patience. We are to put on patience, adorn ourselves with patience, and walk with patience. This is definitely not easy to do. The author tells us that in times when we are frustrated, irritated, annoyed with people, when we are critical or want to lash out, we are to be patient instead. I don’t know about you, but I do get frustrated and irritated with people. I think, why can’t they just…
When I thought of patience, I thought of it as being able to wait a very long time for something. The author shares that “much more is involved in the kind of patience that is a fruit of the Spirit”. She shares four ingredients that would be written on the label:
1. The first and primary ingredient in patience is endurance – forbearing wrong and ill-treatment. “Patient endurance is long-spiritedness, tolerance, and slowness to wrath. It is practiced toward people and relates to our attitude toward others. It is the quality of putting up with other people, even when…sorely tired!”
2. Next ingredient details the very special conditions for patience: when injured. We need patience to endure injuries inflicted by others, a patience that is characterized by long-suffering, evenness of temper, or patient endurance when injured by another. It also includes the idea of forbearance of wrong under ill-treatment.”
3. Another ingredient describing patience is mercy. “Patience wishes well to others and is willing to endure with them…hoping for their good. Besides obedience to God’s instructions to be patient, our motivation to practice patience should be the good of others.”
4. The last ingredient would be written in red letters and say “Contains no anger or vengeance! The Spirit’s patience holds no wrath or thought of sinful revenge or retaliation. Patience is the grace of the man who could revenge himself but chooses not to.”
“Therefore, patience withholds: It withholds vengeance, revenge, and retaliation, and endures instead. It endures ill treatment, it refuses to be angry, and it desires the offender’s good.”
“In light of these ingredients, the definition of patience I (the author) uses for myself (author) is: Patience does nothing. Patience is the front end of these three fruit which relate to people – patience, goodness, and kindness – and it is the passive part of love. It is love doing nothing.”
The author is telling us that when we have been hurt, wronged, or ill treated we should do nothing. You say nothing! Yes, nothing. What a concept. She says that it gives us time to do something – “to pray, to reflect, and to plan to respond in a righteous manner.” Of course the battle would be with our flesh wanting to respond in like manner. They can’t talk to me that way! I can’t believe she did that to me! These would be a few of our responses. The author says that once we learn about the ingredients of true spiritual patience, it “can make a drastic difference in our conduct toward others.” Yes, our flesh would not be so quick to respond.
In order to do nothing, we would have to lean very heavily on God, because by only His strength will we be able to heed the directions.
This chapter really spoke to me. I have faced some tough stuff in the last couple of years and I know I haven’t always responded with God’s patience. It’s a hard thing to do in our flesh. The only way we can walk in God’s patience is by spending time in God’s Word, prayer and following Jesus’ example. We cannot do this on our own, that is for certain.
In discussing this chapter with my ladies, it was noted that we have more patience with people and circumstances we tolerate and less patience with those we do not tolerate. I thought that was quite profound. Do you see this in your own life?
Let’s pray. Father, I thank You that You provide Your patience to us. I know that I haven’t always walked in Your patience. I ask that You help me in this area. And help those reading this to walk in Your patience. That we will endure, show mercy and not try to avenge our own selves. Thank You Father. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter six – “Resting in Patience.”
The fruit of the Spirit is…patience. Galatians 5:22
“How can we continue to walk by the Spirit and not succumb to the flesh when we are assaulted by people? Handling people in a gracious, Christlike manner presents a real test for us. But thank God that He gives us three more graces, three more fruit – patience, kindness and goodness – for managing the strain of personal relationships. Reaching out to others requires that we take action – the actions of patience, kindness, and goodness as we walk by the Spirit.”
Scripture tells us we are to dress our spirit each morning with the godly quality of patience. We are to put on patience, adorn ourselves with patience, and walk with patience. This is definitely not easy to do. The author tells us that in times when we are frustrated, irritated, annoyed with people, when we are critical or want to lash out, we are to be patient instead. I don’t know about you, but I do get frustrated and irritated with people. I think, why can’t they just…
When I thought of patience, I thought of it as being able to wait a very long time for something. The author shares that “much more is involved in the kind of patience that is a fruit of the Spirit”. She shares four ingredients that would be written on the label:
1. The first and primary ingredient in patience is endurance – forbearing wrong and ill-treatment. “Patient endurance is long-spiritedness, tolerance, and slowness to wrath. It is practiced toward people and relates to our attitude toward others. It is the quality of putting up with other people, even when…sorely tired!”
2. Next ingredient details the very special conditions for patience: when injured. We need patience to endure injuries inflicted by others, a patience that is characterized by long-suffering, evenness of temper, or patient endurance when injured by another. It also includes the idea of forbearance of wrong under ill-treatment.”
3. Another ingredient describing patience is mercy. “Patience wishes well to others and is willing to endure with them…hoping for their good. Besides obedience to God’s instructions to be patient, our motivation to practice patience should be the good of others.”
4. The last ingredient would be written in red letters and say “Contains no anger or vengeance! The Spirit’s patience holds no wrath or thought of sinful revenge or retaliation. Patience is the grace of the man who could revenge himself but chooses not to.”
“Therefore, patience withholds: It withholds vengeance, revenge, and retaliation, and endures instead. It endures ill treatment, it refuses to be angry, and it desires the offender’s good.”
“In light of these ingredients, the definition of patience I (the author) uses for myself (author) is: Patience does nothing. Patience is the front end of these three fruit which relate to people – patience, goodness, and kindness – and it is the passive part of love. It is love doing nothing.”
The author is telling us that when we have been hurt, wronged, or ill treated we should do nothing. You say nothing! Yes, nothing. What a concept. She says that it gives us time to do something – “to pray, to reflect, and to plan to respond in a righteous manner.” Of course the battle would be with our flesh wanting to respond in like manner. They can’t talk to me that way! I can’t believe she did that to me! These would be a few of our responses. The author says that once we learn about the ingredients of true spiritual patience, it “can make a drastic difference in our conduct toward others.” Yes, our flesh would not be so quick to respond.
In order to do nothing, we would have to lean very heavily on God, because by only His strength will we be able to heed the directions.
This chapter really spoke to me. I have faced some tough stuff in the last couple of years and I know I haven’t always responded with God’s patience. It’s a hard thing to do in our flesh. The only way we can walk in God’s patience is by spending time in God’s Word, prayer and following Jesus’ example. We cannot do this on our own, that is for certain.
In discussing this chapter with my ladies, it was noted that we have more patience with people and circumstances we tolerate and less patience with those we do not tolerate. I thought that was quite profound. Do you see this in your own life?
Let’s pray. Father, I thank You that You provide Your patience to us. I know that I haven’t always walked in Your patience. I ask that You help me in this area. And help those reading this to walk in Your patience. That we will endure, show mercy and not try to avenge our own selves. Thank You Father. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Blessings,
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
A Child is Born
Isaiah 9:6 (NIV
For to us a child is born,
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Check out more Word Filled Wednesdays here.
Blessings,
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Journey of the Wise Men
I asked my husband to write today's devotion using his Sunday morning sermon this past week.
The wise men’s journey to visit the child Jesus gives us examples of some of the journeys we may take as we follow Christ. Let’s look at a few of them.
The first is the journey of faith. There was no guiding light or star as the journey takes off. The saw a star and set out on a journey. A Journey that would be filled with many unknowns. It seems that they thought Jerusalem was the destination but it really was just a stopping point the journey would continue.
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East…" In our walk with God we don’t always get a detailed road map. God often gives us a few steps at a time.
Look at Abram in Genesis 12:1 Now the LORD had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you.”
God said Abram you go and when you get there I will let you know. Wow! Can we do that? We too are on a journey like these Magi and we must take steps of faith to find the destination.
The second type of Journey was a journey of worship. This was no sightseeing trip. This was no vacation. It was all about worship.
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him."
Look at the length they traveled for the purpose of worship. Many times we struggle to worship the risen Savior because of a bad week, a bad hair day, a bad morning, or maybe we are just plain lazy. There was no plane ride, no commuter train, nor car; it was by animal or by foot for mile upon mile day after day just to be in the presence of Jesus. This convicts me. We have the conveniences and all the advantages and yet we at times struggle to worship the Lord. Why would they go through all the trouble? The answer is simple because they believed the new King of the Jews was worthy. And He still is!
Look at this, Revelation 5:4-10 So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. (5) But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." (6) And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. (7) Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne. (8) Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (9) And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, (10) And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."
He is worthy!
Finally, their journey was one purpose. When they opened their treasure and gave gold, frankincense and myrrh not only where these gifts value and extravagant but they held meaning.
Gold represents royalty and divinity. Frankincense represents sacrifice Leviticus 2:2. Myrrh symbols burial John 19:39. While these gifts may have provided a means for the Jesus and His family to travel to Egypt, they meant so much more. They speak of what was to come, this God-man would be the sacrifice and would die for our sins so we could have life and life more abundantly. Thank God for His indescribable gift!
The wise men’s journey to visit the child Jesus gives us examples of some of the journeys we may take as we follow Christ. Let’s look at a few of them.
The first is the journey of faith. There was no guiding light or star as the journey takes off. The saw a star and set out on a journey. A Journey that would be filled with many unknowns. It seems that they thought Jerusalem was the destination but it really was just a stopping point the journey would continue.
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East…" In our walk with God we don’t always get a detailed road map. God often gives us a few steps at a time.
Look at Abram in Genesis 12:1 Now the LORD had said to Abram: "Get out of your country, From your family And from your father's house, To a land that I will show you.”
God said Abram you go and when you get there I will let you know. Wow! Can we do that? We too are on a journey like these Magi and we must take steps of faith to find the destination.
The second type of Journey was a journey of worship. This was no sightseeing trip. This was no vacation. It was all about worship.
Matthew 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him."
Look at the length they traveled for the purpose of worship. Many times we struggle to worship the risen Savior because of a bad week, a bad hair day, a bad morning, or maybe we are just plain lazy. There was no plane ride, no commuter train, nor car; it was by animal or by foot for mile upon mile day after day just to be in the presence of Jesus. This convicts me. We have the conveniences and all the advantages and yet we at times struggle to worship the Lord. Why would they go through all the trouble? The answer is simple because they believed the new King of the Jews was worthy. And He still is!
Look at this, Revelation 5:4-10 So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. (5) But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." (6) And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. (7) Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne. (8) Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (9) And they sang a new song, saying: "You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, (10) And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."
He is worthy!
Finally, their journey was one purpose. When they opened their treasure and gave gold, frankincense and myrrh not only where these gifts value and extravagant but they held meaning.
Gold represents royalty and divinity. Frankincense represents sacrifice Leviticus 2:2. Myrrh symbols burial John 19:39. While these gifts may have provided a means for the Jesus and His family to travel to Egypt, they meant so much more. They speak of what was to come, this God-man would be the sacrifice and would die for our sins so we could have life and life more abundantly. Thank God for His indescribable gift!
Blessings,
Monday, December 13, 2010
Week 2 in Sports
This past week the kids had a total of five games between them. (I had thought there were six, but it was only five.) The boy had three games (two home and one away). The girl had two games both away. On Tuesday night they were at the same school so it was exciting to see both play on the same night at the same place. Since they were playing at the same school, I took off early from work as I do not usually go to the away games. My husband does since all of the away games are a bit of a distance. I go to all the home games.
I am thankful to share that the kids won all of their games last week. Sarah’s JV team is 4-0 and Stephen’s middle school team is 3-1. Both kids played so good last week and I am so proud of them.
On Friday night Sarah was not feeling well and played her best yet! Stephen’s team played a team that was not equal in skill as they had elementary players on the team. Thus Stephen, who is a starter, only played five to seven minutes total or so. His coach played the nonstarters a lot which gave them plenty of playing time. He did this last year when Stephen was not a starter and it gave him more playing time. He was thankful for the opportunity to play.
Both kids’ teams won their games by a large margin. Tuesday night Sarah’s team had 54 points! She said she thought that was a record. The kids on both teams are playing so well. All the parents are very proud of them.
Here are Sarah and Stephen’s stats:
Stephen
1st game – five rebounds, two steals, two points, one foul; 2nd game – five rebounds, two steals, four points, three fouls; third game – four rebounds, one block, two points.
Sarah
1st game – three rebounds, three steals, four points, five jump ball, one block, three fouls; 2nd game – five rebounds, four steals, ten points, five jump ball, three blocks, four fouls.
I am very proud of my kids and I am thankful for the ability God has given them to play basketball. I am thankful that both of them pray for their teams for both practices and games that they will play good and remember the plays. I am truly blessed to have two wonderful gifts!
Blessings,
I am thankful to share that the kids won all of their games last week. Sarah’s JV team is 4-0 and Stephen’s middle school team is 3-1. Both kids played so good last week and I am so proud of them.
On Friday night Sarah was not feeling well and played her best yet! Stephen’s team played a team that was not equal in skill as they had elementary players on the team. Thus Stephen, who is a starter, only played five to seven minutes total or so. His coach played the nonstarters a lot which gave them plenty of playing time. He did this last year when Stephen was not a starter and it gave him more playing time. He was thankful for the opportunity to play.
Both kids’ teams won their games by a large margin. Tuesday night Sarah’s team had 54 points! She said she thought that was a record. The kids on both teams are playing so well. All the parents are very proud of them.
Here are Sarah and Stephen’s stats:
Stephen
1st game – five rebounds, two steals, two points, one foul; 2nd game – five rebounds, two steals, four points, three fouls; third game – four rebounds, one block, two points.
Sarah
1st game – three rebounds, three steals, four points, five jump ball, one block, three fouls; 2nd game – five rebounds, four steals, ten points, five jump ball, three blocks, four fouls.
I am very proud of my kids and I am thankful for the ability God has given them to play basketball. I am thankful that both of them pray for their teams for both practices and games that they will play good and remember the plays. I am truly blessed to have two wonderful gifts!
Blessings,
Friday, December 10, 2010
You Are Somebody Special!
I came across the following scriptures one day and wanted to share them with you here. Sometimes we need to be reminded that we are somebody special. May these scriptures speak to you today and bring you encouragement.
I am Handcrafted –
“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Psalm 139.14
I am Gifted –
"Christ has given each of us special abilities – whatever He wants us to have out of His rich storehouse of gifts.”
Ephesians 4:7
I am Chosen –
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God.”
1 Peter 2:9
I am Accepted –
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”
Romans 15:7
I am Valued –
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered…you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Luke 12:7
I am Loved –
“The Lord God is with you…He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singning.”
Zephaniah 3:17
I am Handcrafted –
“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Psalm 139.14
I am Gifted –
"Christ has given each of us special abilities – whatever He wants us to have out of His rich storehouse of gifts.”
Ephesians 4:7
I am Chosen –
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God.”
1 Peter 2:9
I am Accepted –
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”
Romans 15:7
I am Valued –
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered…you are worth more than many sparrows.”
Luke 12:7
I am Loved –
“The Lord God is with you…He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singning.”
Zephaniah 3:17
Blessings,
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Fruit of the Spirit - Jesus' Attitudes
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter five – “Looking at Jesus’ Attitudes.” The preceding three chapters were about circumstances of life that call for us to display the fruits of love, joy, and peace.
“First, the need for love is created by ill treatment, hostility, abuse, and hatred. Second, the need for joy springs from sorrow, tribulation, tragedy, affliction, and trials. Third, the need for peace comes as we face the events in life that evoke panic, fear, terror, dread, and anxiety.”
The author looks at Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane “where we see Him living out all three attitudes…despite the events He faced.” The author goes into the following:
• God’s plan for His death;
• the purpose that drove Him to the Garden of Gethsemane which was the “challenge He faced during His final days;
• the place, the Garden of Gethseman, which was a place which was a secluded spot and a familiar place of prayer with His followers;
• the people, asking eight of His disciples to watch while He prayed then later three of His disciples to go with Him to pray;
• the problems, the “Father’s plan caused Him deep distress, extensive emotional anguish, physical stress. He wanted to do His Father’s will;
• the process, “with this submission to God’s will, we see Jesus emerge triumphant from His agonizing struggle in the Garden.
“How did Jesus remain steadfast in the love, joy, and peace that compelled Him to die willingly for sinners and not give in to physical and emotional desires? What was the process? And what can you and I learn so that we, too, can grow in love, joy, and peace?”
“In love, Jesus looked to the Father, reached out to Him for His sustaining and strengthening love, and then, offering the sacrifice of self determined to do the Father’s will. Jesus’ love looked to the Father – and looked at us – and the Spirit enabled Him to submit to death on a cross. Joy offers the sacrifice of praise. In joy, Jesus lifted praise to God. Peace comes with the sacrifice of trust. For peace, Jesus left His problems with God.”
In our difficult times, we need to follow Jesus’ example and go to our own Garden of Gethsemane. “I need to turn to the Father and contend with my flesh until I realize His fruit of love, joy, and peace. I need to spend the time – however long it takes! – to allow Him to fill me with Himself until I have all of Him and He has all of me.”
Here are thought provoking questions the author asks at the end of chapter five:
How are you doing with love, joy, and peace? It kind of makes us realize that we need more work in these areas. I know I do.
The author offers her personal prayer to us for growth in these three attitudes of love, joy, and peace:
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter five – “Looking at Jesus’ Attitudes.” The preceding three chapters were about circumstances of life that call for us to display the fruits of love, joy, and peace.
“First, the need for love is created by ill treatment, hostility, abuse, and hatred. Second, the need for joy springs from sorrow, tribulation, tragedy, affliction, and trials. Third, the need for peace comes as we face the events in life that evoke panic, fear, terror, dread, and anxiety.”
The author looks at Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane “where we see Him living out all three attitudes…despite the events He faced.” The author goes into the following:
• God’s plan for His death;
• the purpose that drove Him to the Garden of Gethsemane which was the “challenge He faced during His final days;
• the place, the Garden of Gethseman, which was a place which was a secluded spot and a familiar place of prayer with His followers;
• the people, asking eight of His disciples to watch while He prayed then later three of His disciples to go with Him to pray;
• the problems, the “Father’s plan caused Him deep distress, extensive emotional anguish, physical stress. He wanted to do His Father’s will;
• the process, “with this submission to God’s will, we see Jesus emerge triumphant from His agonizing struggle in the Garden.
“How did Jesus remain steadfast in the love, joy, and peace that compelled Him to die willingly for sinners and not give in to physical and emotional desires? What was the process? And what can you and I learn so that we, too, can grow in love, joy, and peace?”
“In love, Jesus looked to the Father, reached out to Him for His sustaining and strengthening love, and then, offering the sacrifice of self determined to do the Father’s will. Jesus’ love looked to the Father – and looked at us – and the Spirit enabled Him to submit to death on a cross. Joy offers the sacrifice of praise. In joy, Jesus lifted praise to God. Peace comes with the sacrifice of trust. For peace, Jesus left His problems with God.”
Nothing in Jesus’ circumstances changed during His time in the Garden of Gethsemane.
In our difficult times, we need to follow Jesus’ example and go to our own Garden of Gethsemane. “I need to turn to the Father and contend with my flesh until I realize His fruit of love, joy, and peace. I need to spend the time – however long it takes! – to allow Him to fill me with Himself until I have all of Him and He has all of me.”
Here are thought provoking questions the author asks at the end of chapter five:
- How do you normally handle difficult situations?
- What can you do at such times to be filled with God’s love?
- What can you do in difficult situations to offer a sacrifice of praise?
- In a difficult situation, what will you do to receive and know God’s peace?
How are you doing with love, joy, and peace? It kind of makes us realize that we need more work in these areas. I know I do.
The author offers her personal prayer to us for growth in these three attitudes of love, joy, and peace:
It is in prayer, Father, that we press ourselves to You, O All-Sufficient One, that we get…in order to give, that we petition…in order to praise, that we wrestle…in order to rest. We must have our time in the garden. We must go to Gethsemane…daily…first…often, if need be. May we hold high in our hearts and minds this picture of Jesus in the Garden. Impress it upon our souls. May we follow in His steps and refuse to rise until we have Your love…Your joy…Your peace. We pray in Jesus’ name, who has taught us how to pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Indescribable Gift
It was a head-to-head hand held football game. It was the gift that I wanted that year more than anything else. The anticipation was more that I could stand. While my parents had gone to the grocery store one evening several days before Christmas, temptation got the best of me and I opened it. Once I examined it and played with it, then before they returned home I rewrapped the gift and nestled it back in the exact spot under the tree where I found it. That year that electronic game for me was the ultimate gift.
Indescribable/unspeakable – The idea is, that no words can properly express the greatness of the gift thus bestowed on man. It is higher than the mind can conceive; higher than language can express.
Paul speaks of a gift of a different kind, which is the ultimate gift. In the context of the chapter Paul speaks of the Corinthians generous heart to give to the needy Christian in Judea. Paul closes the chapter by speaking of the grace of God that was in the hearts of the Corinthians which cause them to be so generous. Paul then closes the chapter with these words: Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
Jesus is indescribable because:
- His Name is unparalleled
- His love is unattainable
- His sufferings is unimaginable
- His triumph is unquestionable
Take time today to thank God for His Indescribable Gift to us, His Son Jesus!
Check out more Word Filled Wednesdays here!
Blessings,
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Gifts
Gifts. We all enjoy receiving gifts, no matter what they are. And we enjoy giving gifts to others, whether they are family, friends, co-workers. There is more emphasis on gift giving during this time of the year.
We read about all kinds of gifts throughout the bible; gifts to kings, gifts of service, gifts to servants. There is one particular gift giving we are all familiar with.
It happened two thousand years ago and we read about it in Matthew 2:10-12 how three wise men gave gifts to the “young Child” Jesus.
Matthew 2:10-12 (New King James Version)
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The wise men did not hold back in their gifts to Christ. The bible says they gave their treasures.
We read in Matthew 26:6-8 about a woman who gave a costly gift to Jesus.
Matthew 26:6-8 (New King James Version)
6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste?
This woman did not hold back her gift to Jesus. She did not worry about the cost or what else it could be used for. She gave it freely.
What gifts have we given to Christ this year? Have we given Him our worship? Our heart? Our soul? Our time? Our life? Our ministry? And what gifts will we give Him this coming year? Purpose in your heart today that you will give Christ your gifts freely with no holding back.
As Christian women, one gift that we can receive stands out more than any other. We read about it in Romans 6:23.
Romans 6:23 (New King James Version)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
God gave us the gift of eternal life in Christ! Let’s walk in this gift and share it with everyone around us!
We read about all kinds of gifts throughout the bible; gifts to kings, gifts of service, gifts to servants. There is one particular gift giving we are all familiar with.
It happened two thousand years ago and we read about it in Matthew 2:10-12 how three wise men gave gifts to the “young Child” Jesus.
Matthew 2:10-12 (New King James Version)
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The wise men did not hold back in their gifts to Christ. The bible says they gave their treasures.
We read in Matthew 26:6-8 about a woman who gave a costly gift to Jesus.
Matthew 26:6-8 (New King James Version)
6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. 8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste?
This woman did not hold back her gift to Jesus. She did not worry about the cost or what else it could be used for. She gave it freely.
What gifts have we given to Christ this year? Have we given Him our worship? Our heart? Our soul? Our time? Our life? Our ministry? And what gifts will we give Him this coming year? Purpose in your heart today that you will give Christ your gifts freely with no holding back.
As Christian women, one gift that we can receive stands out more than any other. We read about it in Romans 6:23.
Romans 6:23 (New King James Version)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
God gave us the gift of eternal life in Christ! Let’s walk in this gift and share it with everyone around us!
Blessings,
Monday, December 6, 2010
Week in Sports
This past week was our first basketball games for the kids.
The girl plays JV basketball and had two away games. They won both games! Yeah! My husband keeps stats on the games and was at the first game. He was out of town for the second game and I was at the boy's first basketball game so we do not have anything for the second game. For her first game she had the following: four rebounds, six steals, one jump ball and five (yes, five) fouls. She fouled out. Her first game of the season and she fouled out. She is one tough and aggressive player. She really gets in there with all she has. Needless to say during basketball season she keeps bruises.
She tells me that for the second game she had rebounds, steals, jump ball and she had two points and only two fouls. In the beginning of the game, she stole the ball and was dribbling to her basket when she was pushed out of bounds. The coach started yelling at her thinking she dribbled out of bounds. One dad, bless his heart, stood up and yelled to the coach "she was pushed out of bounds!" The coach took her out of the game shortly after. When she sat down he asked if she was pushed and she said yes. Later in the game he told her that she really was a leader on the court. Yes, that's my baby girl!
The boy had his first game on Friday and they lost. It was an away game but was still local. I, not knowing where I was going, left work earlier than I needed to but didn't know how the traffic would be. It's a good thing I left early because the directions I printed was not very accurate. I did get to the game on time, thankfully. The boy played most of the game and did good. Last year, being a sixth grader, he did not play much at all - even having played basketball for five years with Upward. I was glad to see that he got a lot of playing time. He is a great basketball player. He has good control of the ball, can make pretty lay-ups and can even make three pointers. Right now, he is playing the bottom because of his height (12 years old and 5'8" or so). I am not sure if that is the right fit for him or not. We shall see. I tried keeping stats for him but was not consistent. I know he had several rebounds and stole the ball a few times and had two fouls. On one of the fouls, a dad turned to me and said that's the football player coming out of him. He is not afraid to get in there either - just like his sister.
This week the girl has two games and the boy has four games. That is six games total for this week and there is nothing on Wednesdays. Oh what fun it is to go to basketball games! I will tell you all about it next week.
On a side note, the boy got his bottom braces off last week. Between that and the first games, it was a filled week. Oh! We also had my ladies Christmas banquet and the church's Christmas banquet. Lot's of fun!
I pray that you will be blessed this week and filled to overflowing with the goodness of God!
The girl plays JV basketball and had two away games. They won both games! Yeah! My husband keeps stats on the games and was at the first game. He was out of town for the second game and I was at the boy's first basketball game so we do not have anything for the second game. For her first game she had the following: four rebounds, six steals, one jump ball and five (yes, five) fouls. She fouled out. Her first game of the season and she fouled out. She is one tough and aggressive player. She really gets in there with all she has. Needless to say during basketball season she keeps bruises.
She tells me that for the second game she had rebounds, steals, jump ball and she had two points and only two fouls. In the beginning of the game, she stole the ball and was dribbling to her basket when she was pushed out of bounds. The coach started yelling at her thinking she dribbled out of bounds. One dad, bless his heart, stood up and yelled to the coach "she was pushed out of bounds!" The coach took her out of the game shortly after. When she sat down he asked if she was pushed and she said yes. Later in the game he told her that she really was a leader on the court. Yes, that's my baby girl!
The boy had his first game on Friday and they lost. It was an away game but was still local. I, not knowing where I was going, left work earlier than I needed to but didn't know how the traffic would be. It's a good thing I left early because the directions I printed was not very accurate. I did get to the game on time, thankfully. The boy played most of the game and did good. Last year, being a sixth grader, he did not play much at all - even having played basketball for five years with Upward. I was glad to see that he got a lot of playing time. He is a great basketball player. He has good control of the ball, can make pretty lay-ups and can even make three pointers. Right now, he is playing the bottom because of his height (12 years old and 5'8" or so). I am not sure if that is the right fit for him or not. We shall see. I tried keeping stats for him but was not consistent. I know he had several rebounds and stole the ball a few times and had two fouls. On one of the fouls, a dad turned to me and said that's the football player coming out of him. He is not afraid to get in there either - just like his sister.
This week the girl has two games and the boy has four games. That is six games total for this week and there is nothing on Wednesdays. Oh what fun it is to go to basketball games! I will tell you all about it next week.
On a side note, the boy got his bottom braces off last week. Between that and the first games, it was a filled week. Oh! We also had my ladies Christmas banquet and the church's Christmas banquet. Lot's of fun!
I pray that you will be blessed this week and filled to overflowing with the goodness of God!
Blessings,
Friday, December 3, 2010
Esther
Today's devotion is written by Mary Davis, a woman in my church. Mary is a woman who listens for and hears the voice of God.
“After He has gathered His own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know His voice.” John 10:4
Did you ever dream of being a beautiful princess rescued by a handsome prince? What about becoming the bride of a king? I’m sure as a child most of us have.
Esther was born and raised for this very reason. The main factor in the outcome was her willingness to be expendable for kingdom purposes.
What was Esther’s primary objective? Nothing short of doing the right thing for her people and God…that was the primary objective in her life. Her purpose placed her in a position where she would be used of God in a rare capacity.
God often places dedicated women in strategic locations to further His redemptive plan. But like Esther we must be sensitive and open to His voice. When the picture came together, Esther’s response in a great time of need is what spared God’s people the evil determined against them.
What about you? Are you in a strategic position for such a time as this?
Heavenly Father, we are truly your princesses. We are the bride of Christ awaiting the wedding supper. But until that time comes, touch our hearts and help us to see that nothing short of doing the right thing for you and Your people, and doing it at the right time is what You require from each of us, individually and corporately. From this time forward, help us to determine to make this our ultimate goal. Thank You Father, Amen.
“After He has gathered His own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know His voice.” John 10:4
Did you ever dream of being a beautiful princess rescued by a handsome prince? What about becoming the bride of a king? I’m sure as a child most of us have.
Esther was born and raised for this very reason. The main factor in the outcome was her willingness to be expendable for kingdom purposes.
What was Esther’s primary objective? Nothing short of doing the right thing for her people and God…that was the primary objective in her life. Her purpose placed her in a position where she would be used of God in a rare capacity.
God often places dedicated women in strategic locations to further His redemptive plan. But like Esther we must be sensitive and open to His voice. When the picture came together, Esther’s response in a great time of need is what spared God’s people the evil determined against them.
What about you? Are you in a strategic position for such a time as this?
Heavenly Father, we are truly your princesses. We are the bride of Christ awaiting the wedding supper. But until that time comes, touch our hearts and help us to see that nothing short of doing the right thing for you and Your people, and doing it at the right time is what You require from each of us, individually and corporately. From this time forward, help us to determine to make this our ultimate goal. Thank You Father, Amen.
Blessings,
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Fruit of the Spirit - Peace
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter four – “Experiencing God’s Peace.”
The fruit of the Spirit is…peace. Galatians 5:22
The author says “we who are God’s children can experience His peace – no matter what is happening in our life – when we walk by His Spirit. As we are blessed with the peace of God in the midst of life’s trials, we experience a new closeness to Him.”
Peace is not the absence of problems nor related to problems. Rather it is the presence of God in our lives and acknowledging that God will supply our every need. The author states:
• “Our peace has nothing to do with our circumstances, and everything to do with knowing we have a right relationship with God.
• Our peace has nothing to do with daily challenges or crises, and everything to do with knowing that our times are in God’s hands.
• Our peace has nothing to do with the conditions of our life, and everything to do with knowing that God is all-sufficient.
• Our peace is an inward repose and serenity of soul that indicates a heart at rest – regardless of our circumstances – as we place complete confidence in God minute by minute.”
“True spiritual peace comes with knowing that our heavenly Father is continually with us.” To enjoy this peace, we need to trust Him and abide in Him. We either trust God or give in to the emotions of our flesh. When we choose to trust God, we experience peace even in the most difficult times. When we choose to trust God, “we can have the same peace in God that Christ had in the storm at sea and in many other scenes from His life.” In times of panic, we need to choose peace. In times of mounting pressure, we need to choose peace. His peace is always available to us.
The author asks the reader several thought provoking questions.
• “Can you trust God this way?
• Can you let Him, His Son, His Word, and His Holy Spirit be channels of peace?
• Will you trust in God as soon as a reason to panic arises?”
The author uses Martha as an example of how one can let the mounting pressure get to them. “First, Martha’s manner was a dead give-away. Her behavior has been described as cumbered, distracted, worried, and busy. …Martha’s mouth revealed her lack of peace. ‘Lord, do You not care…? Martha’s confusion about her mission also robbed her of peace. In her efforts to serve God, Martha failed to remember that ‘man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.’ So at last we come to Martha’s mindset and the priorities which kept her from knowing God’s peace: Martha was preoccupied with details and secondary issues.”
Then the author shares what we can learn from Martha’s sister. “First of all, Mary rested at the Lord’s feet while Martha was restless. Mary’s manner clearly revealed a soul at rest and the ‘imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit…’ And Mary’s mouth rested, too. …Jesus spoke the words of life…and so Mary was quiet. Like her sister, Mary’s mission was also to serve, but she also understood the more important priority of worship. Clearly Mary’s mindset was pleasing to the Lord. She had her mind set on things above, not on earthly things.”
Let’s look at our own manner, mouth, mission and mindset. What would someone see in us? “Are you in turmoil, or are you trusting and at peace? Are you running around in circles, or are you resting in the Lord? Are your words revealing a sense of panic and pressure, or are they words that edify and encourage, that minister grace to those who hear? Are your actions reflecting the priorities God would have you set? Is your relationship with Him first, or are you too busy to sit at His feet and enjoy His presence?”
May God enable us like Mary to choose to make our number one priority ‘the good part which shall not be taken away’ – our relationship with Him!”
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter four:
Personal Peace – What concerns in your life tend to cause you anxiety and rob you of peace? More specifically, what current situation tempts you to worry?
Let’s pray. Father, we thank You for the peace You provide for us. Peace that we can have in the midst of turmoil and difficult circumstances. Peace in having a right relationship with You. Peace in knowing that we are in the palm of Your hand. I thank You for the peace that passes all understanding that I have experienced in my own life. I pray now for those reading this that may be going through a difficult time and need to experience Your peace in a deeper way. I pray that You will bless them in every way possible. Thank You Father. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter four – “Experiencing God’s Peace.”
The fruit of the Spirit is…peace. Galatians 5:22
The author says “we who are God’s children can experience His peace – no matter what is happening in our life – when we walk by His Spirit. As we are blessed with the peace of God in the midst of life’s trials, we experience a new closeness to Him.”
Peace is not the absence of problems nor related to problems. Rather it is the presence of God in our lives and acknowledging that God will supply our every need. The author states:
• “Our peace has nothing to do with our circumstances, and everything to do with knowing we have a right relationship with God.
• Our peace has nothing to do with daily challenges or crises, and everything to do with knowing that our times are in God’s hands.
• Our peace has nothing to do with the conditions of our life, and everything to do with knowing that God is all-sufficient.
• Our peace is an inward repose and serenity of soul that indicates a heart at rest – regardless of our circumstances – as we place complete confidence in God minute by minute.”
“True spiritual peace comes with knowing that our heavenly Father is continually with us.” To enjoy this peace, we need to trust Him and abide in Him. We either trust God or give in to the emotions of our flesh. When we choose to trust God, we experience peace even in the most difficult times. When we choose to trust God, “we can have the same peace in God that Christ had in the storm at sea and in many other scenes from His life.” In times of panic, we need to choose peace. In times of mounting pressure, we need to choose peace. His peace is always available to us.
The author asks the reader several thought provoking questions.
• “Can you trust God this way?
• Can you let Him, His Son, His Word, and His Holy Spirit be channels of peace?
• Will you trust in God as soon as a reason to panic arises?”
The author uses Martha as an example of how one can let the mounting pressure get to them. “First, Martha’s manner was a dead give-away. Her behavior has been described as cumbered, distracted, worried, and busy. …Martha’s mouth revealed her lack of peace. ‘Lord, do You not care…? Martha’s confusion about her mission also robbed her of peace. In her efforts to serve God, Martha failed to remember that ‘man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.’ So at last we come to Martha’s mindset and the priorities which kept her from knowing God’s peace: Martha was preoccupied with details and secondary issues.”
Then the author shares what we can learn from Martha’s sister. “First of all, Mary rested at the Lord’s feet while Martha was restless. Mary’s manner clearly revealed a soul at rest and the ‘imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit…’ And Mary’s mouth rested, too. …Jesus spoke the words of life…and so Mary was quiet. Like her sister, Mary’s mission was also to serve, but she also understood the more important priority of worship. Clearly Mary’s mindset was pleasing to the Lord. She had her mind set on things above, not on earthly things.”
Let’s look at our own manner, mouth, mission and mindset. What would someone see in us? “Are you in turmoil, or are you trusting and at peace? Are you running around in circles, or are you resting in the Lord? Are your words revealing a sense of panic and pressure, or are they words that edify and encourage, that minister grace to those who hear? Are your actions reflecting the priorities God would have you set? Is your relationship with Him first, or are you too busy to sit at His feet and enjoy His presence?”
May God enable us like Mary to choose to make our number one priority ‘the good part which shall not be taken away’ – our relationship with Him!”
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter four:
Personal Peace – What concerns in your life tend to cause you anxiety and rob you of peace? More specifically, what current situation tempts you to worry?
Let’s pray. Father, we thank You for the peace You provide for us. Peace that we can have in the midst of turmoil and difficult circumstances. Peace in having a right relationship with You. Peace in knowing that we are in the palm of Your hand. I thank You for the peace that passes all understanding that I have experienced in my own life. I pray now for those reading this that may be going through a difficult time and need to experience Your peace in a deeper way. I pray that You will bless them in every way possible. Thank You Father. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Blessings,
Friday, November 5, 2010
Mary Magdalene
Today's devotion is written by Mary Davis, a woman in my church.
Compassion is the thing that sees not the sinner, but the heart. When Jesus looked at Mary Magdalene, he saw beneath the tainted lifestyle she was living.
After her conversion she became his faithful follower. He saw the ministering blessing she would ultimately be to His own heart as well as to others. She followed Jesus all the way to the cross. She had found life in and through Him.
One could often find her where Jesus was. She stood at the cross when he was crucified. The first at the empty tomb. The first to herald the news that He was risen from the dead, and He personally appeared to her in His resurrected state. It can be said that she was one of the most devoted women disciples. The story of her life reveals that she was a woman of integrity, fortitude, devotion, and courage.
Heavenly Father, it’s my prayer that during the month of November You will lead us to find time each day to show compassion to someone either through prayer or action. Help us this month to reconsider other areas of our lives such as faithfulness, devotion, fortitude, and integrity of the sole purpose of becoming women of excellence. May we bring pleasure to You by practicing the above attributes. Thank You Father, Amen.
Compassion is the thing that sees not the sinner, but the heart. When Jesus looked at Mary Magdalene, he saw beneath the tainted lifestyle she was living.
After her conversion she became his faithful follower. He saw the ministering blessing she would ultimately be to His own heart as well as to others. She followed Jesus all the way to the cross. She had found life in and through Him.
One could often find her where Jesus was. She stood at the cross when he was crucified. The first at the empty tomb. The first to herald the news that He was risen from the dead, and He personally appeared to her in His resurrected state. It can be said that she was one of the most devoted women disciples. The story of her life reveals that she was a woman of integrity, fortitude, devotion, and courage.
Heavenly Father, it’s my prayer that during the month of November You will lead us to find time each day to show compassion to someone either through prayer or action. Help us this month to reconsider other areas of our lives such as faithfulness, devotion, fortitude, and integrity of the sole purpose of becoming women of excellence. May we bring pleasure to You by practicing the above attributes. Thank You Father, Amen.
Blessings,
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
All for Him!
Romans 2:29 …And a person with a changed heart seeks praise from God, not from people. (NLT)
My children attend a small Christian school whose motto is “All for Him”. Before every game, after every huddle, the teams say these words. They are saying that their playing is all for Jesus.
During our mid-week service at church, the adults are studying the book of Romans. I have read Romans and heard sermons and lessons from it as well. During the current study, we have gone into a lot of the background and what is behind the words of Paul. It has been very good.
The other week as we were going through chapter two, part B of the last verse in the New Living Translation stood out. Immediately the school motto came to mind.
We see people around us, and perhaps our own selves, who seek praise and recognition from people. What came to mind is that if our words and actions are pleasing to God, then they will be pleasing to those around us.
May it be our desire and our lifelong pursuit to seek praise from God. Let’s keep our focus on Him and pleasing Him. In doing so, everything else around us will fall into place.
Blessings,
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Sports Update
Sarah's volleyball team has continued their winning streak. Their overall record is 14-1. Last week they played the team of their only lost and won big time. I guess when they played them the first time it was a way off night for the girls. Right now they are 1st place in their conference and if they win the rest of their games they will be the VCC season champs! I have no doubt they will win the rest of their games, unless they have a really off night.
My husband usually goes to the away games (away games are really away). I have to remind him to get a picture. He did but it was quite a bit away. Sarah is at the front of the right side of the net. At this game, Sarah spiked the winning point!
My husband usually goes to the away games (away games are really away). I have to remind him to get a picture. He did but it was quite a bit away. Sarah is at the front of the right side of the net. At this game, Sarah spiked the winning point!
Stephen's football team lost on Saturday. Their opponent was undefeated but our boys played hard and kept the score down. Below is a picture of him warming up. He is still the starting quarterback.
Saturday was our homecoming. Stephen was crowned Homecoming King! It was quite an honor to be selected. He was surprised and I think his team mates were happy that he was selected.
This week Sarah only has one game during the week and Stephen has a game on Saturday. Just a few more weeks of fall sports and then on to winter sports. Both kids play basketball. The fun continues!
I am very thankful for the God-given abilities my children have to play sports. And I am thankful that they honor God in their playing.
Until next update...
Blessings,
Monday, October 18, 2010
Fruit of the Spirit-Joy
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter three – “Offering the Sacrifice of Joy.”
The fruit of the Spirit is Joy. Galatians 5:22
…that your joy might be full. John 16:24
There are over 70 references to joy in the New Testament. In those references we read that joy was important to Jesus. “Jesus wanted his disciples to know the joy of fellowship with Him, joy to the fullest.” We also read that genuine joy is an expression of godliness. The author gives us three reasons to be joyful.
There are five sources of joy:
“True spiritual joy shines brightest against the darkness of trials, tragedy, and testing! And the blacker the background, the greater the brilliance. Similarly, life’s dark struggles make Christian joy more intense and our heartfelt praise more glorious.”
The author tells us how we can cultivate this fruit of joy in the Lord in our daily walk with God.
What about you? Are you facing a difficult, dark time in your life right now? Count it all joy. Joy? Yes, joy. God promises us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Again, lean heavy on Him and He will help you and strengthen you.
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter three:
Blessings,
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter three – “Offering the Sacrifice of Joy.”
The fruit of the Spirit is Joy. Galatians 5:22
…that your joy might be full. John 16:24
There are over 70 references to joy in the New Testament. In those references we read that joy was important to Jesus. “Jesus wanted his disciples to know the joy of fellowship with Him, joy to the fullest.” We also read that genuine joy is an expression of godliness. The author gives us three reasons to be joyful.
1. Our joy is permanent. The Holy Spirit causes this fruit to grow in our lives as we abide in Christ and walk in obedience.Let’s talk about the difference between happiness and joy. Webster’s online dictionary defines happiness as a : a state of well-being and contentment; b : a pleasurable or satisfying experience. The author defined happiness as “a state of good fortune and prosperity related to and depended on our circumstances.” She goes on to say “Happiness can be a false joy and, since easy circumstances are not life’s norm, happiness is elusive.” “True spiritual joy is not happiness.” Our joy as Christians…
2. Our joy is always available. Whatever the circumstances of our life, we have ready access to the Source of true joy anytime we turn to Him.
3. Our joy is inexpressible. We can’t explain why we experience joy when nothing in our life suggests we should be joyful.
1. is not dependent on circumstances, but on the spiritual realities of God’s goodness.“…our joy is not ‘an experience that comes from favorable circumstances but is a sense of well-being that abides in the heart of the person who knows all is well between himself and the Lord.”
2. is not based on our efforts, accomplishments, or willpower, but rather on the truth about our relationship with the Father through the Son.
3. is not merely an emotion, but the result of choosing to look beyond what appears to be true in our life to what is true about our life in Christ.
There are five sources of joy:
1. God Himself is a primary source of our joy.The joy of the Lord is available to us any time, no matter what we are dealing with. We need to keep our eyes on God and not on our circumstances. “You and I cultivate the fruit of joy when we ask God to keep us walking with and abiding in Him.”
2. God’s salvation is a great reason for joy.
3. God’s promises are another cause for great joy and His promises are many.
4. Christ’s kingdom is a reason for us to have joy in our lives.
5. Our future in Christ should also bring us joy.
“True spiritual joy shines brightest against the darkness of trials, tragedy, and testing! And the blacker the background, the greater the brilliance. Similarly, life’s dark struggles make Christian joy more intense and our heartfelt praise more glorious.”
The author tells us how we can cultivate this fruit of joy in the Lord in our daily walk with God.
1. Offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually – even when you don’t feel like it.
2. Consider it all joy…when you encounter various trials.
3. Give thanks in everything.
4. Bless the Lord at all times.
5. Focus on the reality of God promises.
6. Look up. Shift your eyes and your hopes away from your suffering and focus instead on the splendor of God.
7. Obey God’s command to be joyful always.
8. Go to God to be filled with His joy whenever you need it.
Now all of these eight things are not easy. We don’t like to encounter various trials, but when we do, somehow we must consider it all joy. It’s not easy to give thanks in everything. Sometimes not-so-good stuff happens to us, to our families. Somehow we must give thanks in those times as well as the good times. We need to lean heavy on God and He will help us.
Have you ever been around someone whom you know is going through a rough time, but they don’t act like it. They have a smile on their face, a chuckle on their lips. I can think of a young lady right now who is going through a family crisis. Looking at her you would have no idea what she is facing on a daily basis. She gives God glory and continually has a thankful heart. She is walking in joy. What about you? Are you facing a difficult, dark time in your life right now? Count it all joy. Joy? Yes, joy. God promises us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Again, lean heavy on Him and He will help you and strengthen you.
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter three:
When do you find it hardest to experience joy in the Lord? How do circumstances generally affect you joy? What sacrifice of praise might you offer even when circumstances weigh you down?Let’s pray. Father, we thank You that in You there is joy. We thank you that we can joy in salvation, Your promises, Your Kingdom, and our future with You. We thank You that no matter how dark the night might be, Your joy is always available to us. I pray now for those reading this that might be going through a difficult time. I ask You Father to help them, that the joy of the Lord will be their strength. I pray that they are able to offer a sacrifice of praise, to deliberately choose to give thanks in everything. I pray that You will help them to walk with and abide in You. Thank You Father. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Blessings,
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Fruit of the Spirit-Love
Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT) 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter two – “Looking to God for Love”.
The fruit of the Spirit is love. Galatians 5:22
Whenever I read about God calling women to something, I take notice.
Elizabeth George states “We can’t read very far in the New Testament without realizing that love is important to God. He calls us as women who love God…
• to walk in love (Ephesians 5:2)
• to love one another (John 15:12)
• to love our husbands and our children (Titus 2:4)
• to love our neighbor (Matthew 22:39)
• to love our enemies (Luke 6:27)”
She then gives us five basic principles from God’s Word that can help us understand Christian love.
1. “Love is an act of the will. Every fruit of the Spirit requires decisions
2. Love is action – not just words. Love is something we do, not merely the words we say.
3. Love reaches out to the unlovely. It’s easy to love the lovely, but it’s much harder to love the unlovely.
4. We need God to help us love. Christ calls us to love our enemies by allowing God to love them through us when we can’t do it on our own.
5. Love expects nothing in return. We need to love without any thought of personal award. “
How is love defined? “God always defines biblical love in terms of self-sacrifice. It involves effort, not merely emotion. It demands action, not just feelings. It is something to do, not something we only feel or say.”
“How are you doing when it comes to loving sacrificially?”
How do we live out love? “It helps me as a Christian woman…to see my call to live out love as an assignment from God to love anyone and everyone He chooses to place in my path.” This is definitely not easy. That’s why we need to act on our will instead of our feelings making the decision to love.
“At times the love God fills me with in the morning seems bountiful and unlimited, and I can share His love until the sun goes down. But then come those days-those hard days!-when I seem to be beating a path back to God minute after minute. Maybe the task is harder, maybe the heart of the person I’m trying to love is harder, maybe my own heart is harder, or maybe I’m not spending enough time with Him to receive what I need to share…” Wow! Have you been there? I sure have. Some days are much easier than others to love those who cross my path. The author gave me some good thoughts about why it is harder to love. I need to make sure that my heart is not harder or that I am spending time with God to receive what I need. If the other person’s heart is harder or the task is harder, then I cannot control those things. I need to make sure that I am alright.
We see love lived out in the story of Ruth and her mother-in-law. Ruth left her homeland to return back to Naomi’s homeland. “Ruth sacrificed herself and allowed God to provide for Naomi through her.”
“One way we walk in love-God’s love-is to look to Him to fill us with His love…the kind of love that we’ve been learning is an act of the will, that takes action rather than being content with mere words, that extends itself to the unlovely, that gives for the sake of loving, and that involves the sacrifice of self.”
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter two:
1. According to Luke 6:35, when you love the way Jesus tells you to love, what should you expect in return? And what can you ultimately expect?
Let’s prayer. Father, I thank You for filling me with Your love. Help me to love and serve the people You put in my path. Help me to recognize quickly when I am running low and need a fresh supply of Your love to share. Help me to always extend Your love to everyone. Thank You Father, for your help. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
We continue are reading of “A Woman’s Walk with God” by Elizabeth George. It is a study of the Fruit of the Spirit. Today we look at chapter two – “Looking to God for Love”.
The fruit of the Spirit is love. Galatians 5:22
Whenever I read about God calling women to something, I take notice.
Elizabeth George states “We can’t read very far in the New Testament without realizing that love is important to God. He calls us as women who love God…
• to walk in love (Ephesians 5:2)
• to love one another (John 15:12)
• to love our husbands and our children (Titus 2:4)
• to love our neighbor (Matthew 22:39)
• to love our enemies (Luke 6:27)”
She then gives us five basic principles from God’s Word that can help us understand Christian love.
1. “Love is an act of the will. Every fruit of the Spirit requires decisions
2. Love is action – not just words. Love is something we do, not merely the words we say.
3. Love reaches out to the unlovely. It’s easy to love the lovely, but it’s much harder to love the unlovely.
4. We need God to help us love. Christ calls us to love our enemies by allowing God to love them through us when we can’t do it on our own.
5. Love expects nothing in return. We need to love without any thought of personal award. “
How is love defined? “God always defines biblical love in terms of self-sacrifice. It involves effort, not merely emotion. It demands action, not just feelings. It is something to do, not something we only feel or say.”
“How are you doing when it comes to loving sacrificially?”
How do we live out love? “It helps me as a Christian woman…to see my call to live out love as an assignment from God to love anyone and everyone He chooses to place in my path.” This is definitely not easy. That’s why we need to act on our will instead of our feelings making the decision to love.
“At times the love God fills me with in the morning seems bountiful and unlimited, and I can share His love until the sun goes down. But then come those days-those hard days!-when I seem to be beating a path back to God minute after minute. Maybe the task is harder, maybe the heart of the person I’m trying to love is harder, maybe my own heart is harder, or maybe I’m not spending enough time with Him to receive what I need to share…” Wow! Have you been there? I sure have. Some days are much easier than others to love those who cross my path. The author gave me some good thoughts about why it is harder to love. I need to make sure that my heart is not harder or that I am spending time with God to receive what I need. If the other person’s heart is harder or the task is harder, then I cannot control those things. I need to make sure that I am alright.
We see love lived out in the story of Ruth and her mother-in-law. Ruth left her homeland to return back to Naomi’s homeland. “Ruth sacrificed herself and allowed God to provide for Naomi through her.”
“One way we walk in love-God’s love-is to look to Him to fill us with His love…the kind of love that we’ve been learning is an act of the will, that takes action rather than being content with mere words, that extends itself to the unlovely, that gives for the sake of loving, and that involves the sacrifice of self.”
Here is a thought provoking question the author asks at the end of chapter two:
1. According to Luke 6:35, when you love the way Jesus tells you to love, what should you expect in return? And what can you ultimately expect?
Let’s prayer. Father, I thank You for filling me with Your love. Help me to love and serve the people You put in my path. Help me to recognize quickly when I am running low and need a fresh supply of Your love to share. Help me to always extend Your love to everyone. Thank You Father, for your help. We love and appreciate You. We declare that there is none like You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Blessings,
Friday, October 8, 2010
Holy God
During our mid-week Bible Study at church, we have been discussing the Names of God. Last week I shared about a lesson I taught at church on El Kanna, Jealous God. Today I wanted to share my husband's lesson on El Hakkodosh, Holy God. Below are his notes from class.
Isaiah 5:16 But the LORD of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, And God who is holy shall be hallowed in righteousness.
El – strength, mighty, almighty; God
Hakkadosh - sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary: - holy (One), saint.
The idea of the holy (kadosh) implies differentiation: the realm of the holy is entirely set apart from the common, the habitual, or the profane. The holy is singular, awe-inspiring, even “terrible” or dreadful.
• Nehemiah 1:5 And I said: "I pray, LORD God of heaven, O great and awesome God, You who keep Your covenant and mercy with those who love You and observe Your commandments,
• Psalms 68:35 O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places. The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people. Blessed be God!
The concept is that God is so awesome that He is terrible. He is so holy (other) that it is overwhelming.
The Holy God is utterly unique, distinct, sacred, and set apart as the only one of its kind. The Holy One. The one set apart as utterly perfect and unique, utterly transcending the realm of the finite, the fallen, and the imperfect.
Other forms of El Hakkadosh
1. Holy One
• Isaiah 40:24 Scarcely shall they be planted, Scarcely shall they be sown, Scarcely shall their stock take root in the earth, When He will also blow on them, And they will wither, And the whirlwind will take them away like stubble.
2. Holy LORD God
• 1 Samuel 6:19 Then He struck the men of Beth Shemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the LORD. He struck fifty thousand and seventy men of the people, and the people lamented because the LORD had struck the people with a great slaughter.
3. The Holy One of Israel
• Psalms 71:22 Also with the lute I will praise You-- And Your faithfulness, O my God! To You I will sing with the harp, O Holy One of Israel.
4. LORD my God, my Holy One
• Habakkuk 1:12 Are You not from everlasting, O LORD my God, my Holy One? We shall not die. O LORD, You have appointed them for judgment; O Rock, You have marked them for correction.
Other familiar verses declaring the Holiness of God
• Exodus 3:5 Then He said, "Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground."
• Joshua 5:15 Then the Commander of the LORD's army said to Joshua, "Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy." And Joshua did so.
• Isaiah 6:3 And one cried to another and said: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!"
• Revelation 4:8 The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!"
• Leviticus 11:44 For I am the LORD your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy. Neither shall you defile yourselves with any creeping thing that creeps on the earth.
Understand or seeing the God who is Holy will induce worship:
Psalms 99:1-9 The LORD reigns; Let the peoples tremble! He dwells between the cherubim; Let the earth be moved! (2) The LORD is great in Zion, And He is high above all the peoples. (3) Let them praise Your great and awesome name-- He is holy. (4) The King's strength also loves justice; You have established equity; You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. (5) Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His footstool-- He is holy. (6) Moses and Aaron were among His priests, And Samuel was among those who called upon His name; They called upon the LORD, and He answered them. (7) He spoke to them in the cloudy pillar; They kept His testimonies and the ordinance He gave them. (8) You answered them, O LORD our God; You were to them God-Who-Forgives, Though You took vengeance on their deeds. (9) Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His holy hill; For the LORD our God is holy.
Let's pray. El-Hakkadosh You are so unlike anything that I know. You are holy, separate, other than I am. Your ways are higher than mine. My thoughts can not compare to Yours. You transcend anything that I know. Because You are HOLY, I bow before You and worship You. Declaring Your power, might, and holiness. I am overwhelmed by who You are. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Blessings,
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Where Did September Go?
September has come and gone. It has been a very busy month for my family. Each day has been filled with work for me and my husband and school for the kids. Each night has been filled with practices, games and church. Saturdays are football games for Stephen. Sundays are church all day. I blinked and September has passed and it is now October.
Here are some pictures of the kids' games.
Here are some pictures of the kids' games.
Sarah is serving during her volleyball game. Sorry the picture is kind of blurry.
Sarah is playing front row and getting ready for the serve. She has had some mean spikes and has played so good. In fact, the coach told her she was "on fire"! Go Sarah!
I had Sarah quickly take a picture of Stephen on the sidelines after we called out to him to look.
Stephen had his debut as starting quarterback last Saturday. This picture is far away but you can pick out the quarterback - Stephen! Needless to say I was nervous for him, but he did a great job and did not seem uncertain. Actually, we got points on the board for the first time and it was our first win! Go Stephen!
We took a quick picture of Stephen as he walked by. He is so cute!
I love my kids so much! I am so thankful for them!
In addition to all the sport activities, we had a lot going on with church. It's all good and I wouldn't trade a minute of these crazy-filled days.
Hope you all have had a great September. Now on to October. I wonder what it will hold for us.
Blessings,
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