I went to see the movie Fighting and it was awesome. God can appear where you least expect it. The main character his honest, kind to those less fortunate and never gives up hope. He doesn't want to fight unless he has to. The world is against him and he wants the world. He battles his past while he struggles to keep going in the present moment and fights for the future. There are several times when he realizes those closest to him are against him.
This movie reminds me of good versus evil. The biggest person doesn't mean they are the best. The underdog can win! Take a chance and fight for your dreams. Remember, when you are following the Lord you will always have a spiritual battle taking place.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
18 days of habitation - God's glory will shine through it all
I posted my last blog on Easter after an amazing service. The following day marked a Day of Evil, a time of spiritual warfare. If you have never been through a time period where you felt like you were fighting for your life then please take a moment to thank God! I knew that day I needed to stop, re-group, prepare and retreat to deal with what was coming. The funny thing is we can never really prepare for the future when we don't know what is coming. However, we can trust that our season is in God's hand.
I knew I only had 5 days after Easter to get my cats and myself ready for a trip back to Virginia. My kitties were going to new homes and I was taking some stuff back home to store while I am in this transitional phase of my life. I felt this huge weight deposited on my heart and mind that whole week. I couldn't put my finger on why. That whole week brought new issues arising with the youth and things they are dealing with. The more I talked to these kids the more I knew my "secret" victories in God would become known. What is kept in secret can not show God's glory if no one knows what he has done for us. WHY DO PEOPLE NOT TALK ABOUT THEIR PASTS OR HOW GOD HAS SAVED THEM? I feel there is a time and place for each of us. Yet, if you don't share it then aren't you being unjust to our God who showed you love, mercy, forgiveness and kindness to save you??? I try to be an open book with most of my life because I am so thankful for what I have been saved from.
So, I headed to Virginia on the 17th and here is the run down of what happen :)
Saturday - My 12 hour drive took 15 1/2 hours in the car with 2 cats (one who cried for 6 hours straight) then I cried for 5 hours straight - my heart was so heavy and all that was running through my mind was my concern for this generation and what they are dealing with. Also, PMSing didn't help my emotions!
Sunday - I spend the afternoon/evening with my youngest brother. We went up to his property which is right beside my dad's old place. My dad died 10 years ago this year and I hadn't been back there since the day of his funeral. All the memories flooded back in an instant. I became overwhelmed! Then during our chit chat I find out someone I cared for was killed years ago and I never was told. It still makes no sense to me how I never knew. I guess we all assume people's lives continue even when we don't talk to them but in this case that didn't happen :(
Monday - I went and had dinner with my other brother and his family. It was so nice because I felt so connected to his wife. She lost her mom last Thanksgiving day to a rare form of cancer. They told her in May of last year she would have 6 months to live and there was no cure. Her mom was so full of life and a blessing to have known. My brother and I started talking about childhood which during my teenage years was the worst part of my life. My dad walked out on our family when I was 13 yrs old and it sent me into a tail spin.
Tuesday - I was reminded as I took my second cat to her new home an hour away in the country that there are still places where times stands still. It was the kinda place my dad always talked about us moving to when we were grown. My last memories are of him building a natural spring from the mountain, plowing the land, all the stuff you do on a farm to become self-sufficient. He died before his dream ever came true.
Wednesday - I had lunch with my step-dad and it was well needed. I wanted to clear the air that I don't hate him. He and my mom divorced last year. He almost died a year ago, he had like 3 open heart surgeries in a months time. They kept him in a medically induced coma for 2-3 weeks to ensure the infection cleared up that had developed around his heart. I can't imagine laying on a hospital bed in a coma, not knowing what is going on and your chest being opened. They wouldn't sew him up until they knew he was ok. It was odd talking to him about generational things and how so much "junk" is passed down in families not just medically but spiritually too.
Thursday - I felt sick and overwhelmed so I rested all day.
Friday - I had to deal with one of my least favorite people in the world. As she mocked my faith, my music and my life. I stood firm on God's Word and showed her love and mercy with a smile. I bit my tongue A LOT!!!!
Saturday - One of my loved ones kicked a meth habit a couple years ago after it almost took his life. I knew he was strong and praise God he did it. Yet today I found something disturbing that reminded me how quickly a person can fall. How fast a life can be lost if they are not around the right people. After talking to him, I found out that what I found was not his and not as serious as what I first thought. My discernment was right but it was a harsh reminder about life! Later that night I went out to eat and ran into some childhood friends. I was sadly reminded how their lives changed when someone they loved took their life. She left behind kids and family that will never be the same. My heart just breaks to know that teens are using suicide as a way out of their lives. I want them to know there is hope in Jesus!
Sunday - I had to face the fact that my time at home was coming to an end. Of course, what says end of trip like a medical scare? We received a call that my 7 year old nephew was rushed to the ER after the people taking care of him accidentally doubled his meds. He had to be given additional meds to counteract what was in his system. Since my nephew is autistic they couldn't pump his stomach because he is very prone to seizures. The thought of losing him about killed me! It is so hard to know he can't communicate with anyone, his language is all his own. All I can do is know that he is in God's hands.
There were a few more thing that happen to me and issues that arose but for time sake you get the point. Now I ask with all that who wouldn't admit to having a bad week? I'm not perfect and need God's help as much as the next person. Occationally, I even need a break. I go about a 100 miles a minute and sometimes it catches up with me!
As I return to the blogging world tonight I am reminded of what I had to press through to get to where I am right now. The enemy pulled every possible trick to get me to stay home and not go to my Beth Moore study group but I knew God had something in store for me. On my way there I heard on the radio that God uses the people we are trying to reach to reach us. YES, that statement is so true!!!
During the study, Beth Moore reminded us of a few things:
- Job was tested and had faith in God even though he did not know the spiritual battle that was taking place. He trusted God and when things got bad he worshiped him.
- Peter had to have his life "sifted". God doesn't want us to keep suppressing our past mistakes, fear or hurts. He wants us to lay them at his feet so he can deal with them. We must trust God. He is after us to purify us. Have you allowed God to "sift" your life? If not, you may be giving the enemy a foothold.
- Authenticity comes through trials. Jesus is our rock and our foundation must be build upon him not our garbage from the past.
I realized tonight that I have spend a lot of time with God and I will continue to strive for growth. Sometimes that means I will have to go through times that are uncomfortable. I must hold on and know he is in control even when everything seems out of control. God came to heal us and if we confess our estate, he will restore it. I realized that my past hurts and life issues I have been apart of or know about has shaped me in one way or another...now I have to allow God's Glory to shine through. Each time God gives me the chance to reveal how his love and mercy has changed my life then his glory is shining through and the Kingdom of Heaven is being enlarged!
I knew I only had 5 days after Easter to get my cats and myself ready for a trip back to Virginia. My kitties were going to new homes and I was taking some stuff back home to store while I am in this transitional phase of my life. I felt this huge weight deposited on my heart and mind that whole week. I couldn't put my finger on why. That whole week brought new issues arising with the youth and things they are dealing with. The more I talked to these kids the more I knew my "secret" victories in God would become known. What is kept in secret can not show God's glory if no one knows what he has done for us. WHY DO PEOPLE NOT TALK ABOUT THEIR PASTS OR HOW GOD HAS SAVED THEM? I feel there is a time and place for each of us. Yet, if you don't share it then aren't you being unjust to our God who showed you love, mercy, forgiveness and kindness to save you??? I try to be an open book with most of my life because I am so thankful for what I have been saved from.
So, I headed to Virginia on the 17th and here is the run down of what happen :)
Saturday - My 12 hour drive took 15 1/2 hours in the car with 2 cats (one who cried for 6 hours straight) then I cried for 5 hours straight - my heart was so heavy and all that was running through my mind was my concern for this generation and what they are dealing with. Also, PMSing didn't help my emotions!
Sunday - I spend the afternoon/evening with my youngest brother. We went up to his property which is right beside my dad's old place. My dad died 10 years ago this year and I hadn't been back there since the day of his funeral. All the memories flooded back in an instant. I became overwhelmed! Then during our chit chat I find out someone I cared for was killed years ago and I never was told. It still makes no sense to me how I never knew. I guess we all assume people's lives continue even when we don't talk to them but in this case that didn't happen :(
Monday - I went and had dinner with my other brother and his family. It was so nice because I felt so connected to his wife. She lost her mom last Thanksgiving day to a rare form of cancer. They told her in May of last year she would have 6 months to live and there was no cure. Her mom was so full of life and a blessing to have known. My brother and I started talking about childhood which during my teenage years was the worst part of my life. My dad walked out on our family when I was 13 yrs old and it sent me into a tail spin.
Tuesday - I was reminded as I took my second cat to her new home an hour away in the country that there are still places where times stands still. It was the kinda place my dad always talked about us moving to when we were grown. My last memories are of him building a natural spring from the mountain, plowing the land, all the stuff you do on a farm to become self-sufficient. He died before his dream ever came true.
Wednesday - I had lunch with my step-dad and it was well needed. I wanted to clear the air that I don't hate him. He and my mom divorced last year. He almost died a year ago, he had like 3 open heart surgeries in a months time. They kept him in a medically induced coma for 2-3 weeks to ensure the infection cleared up that had developed around his heart. I can't imagine laying on a hospital bed in a coma, not knowing what is going on and your chest being opened. They wouldn't sew him up until they knew he was ok. It was odd talking to him about generational things and how so much "junk" is passed down in families not just medically but spiritually too.
Thursday - I felt sick and overwhelmed so I rested all day.
Friday - I had to deal with one of my least favorite people in the world. As she mocked my faith, my music and my life. I stood firm on God's Word and showed her love and mercy with a smile. I bit my tongue A LOT!!!!
Saturday - One of my loved ones kicked a meth habit a couple years ago after it almost took his life. I knew he was strong and praise God he did it. Yet today I found something disturbing that reminded me how quickly a person can fall. How fast a life can be lost if they are not around the right people. After talking to him, I found out that what I found was not his and not as serious as what I first thought. My discernment was right but it was a harsh reminder about life! Later that night I went out to eat and ran into some childhood friends. I was sadly reminded how their lives changed when someone they loved took their life. She left behind kids and family that will never be the same. My heart just breaks to know that teens are using suicide as a way out of their lives. I want them to know there is hope in Jesus!
Sunday - I had to face the fact that my time at home was coming to an end. Of course, what says end of trip like a medical scare? We received a call that my 7 year old nephew was rushed to the ER after the people taking care of him accidentally doubled his meds. He had to be given additional meds to counteract what was in his system. Since my nephew is autistic they couldn't pump his stomach because he is very prone to seizures. The thought of losing him about killed me! It is so hard to know he can't communicate with anyone, his language is all his own. All I can do is know that he is in God's hands.
There were a few more thing that happen to me and issues that arose but for time sake you get the point. Now I ask with all that who wouldn't admit to having a bad week? I'm not perfect and need God's help as much as the next person. Occationally, I even need a break. I go about a 100 miles a minute and sometimes it catches up with me!
As I return to the blogging world tonight I am reminded of what I had to press through to get to where I am right now. The enemy pulled every possible trick to get me to stay home and not go to my Beth Moore study group but I knew God had something in store for me. On my way there I heard on the radio that God uses the people we are trying to reach to reach us. YES, that statement is so true!!!
During the study, Beth Moore reminded us of a few things:
- Job was tested and had faith in God even though he did not know the spiritual battle that was taking place. He trusted God and when things got bad he worshiped him.
- Peter had to have his life "sifted". God doesn't want us to keep suppressing our past mistakes, fear or hurts. He wants us to lay them at his feet so he can deal with them. We must trust God. He is after us to purify us. Have you allowed God to "sift" your life? If not, you may be giving the enemy a foothold.
- Authenticity comes through trials. Jesus is our rock and our foundation must be build upon him not our garbage from the past.
I realized tonight that I have spend a lot of time with God and I will continue to strive for growth. Sometimes that means I will have to go through times that are uncomfortable. I must hold on and know he is in control even when everything seems out of control. God came to heal us and if we confess our estate, he will restore it. I realized that my past hurts and life issues I have been apart of or know about has shaped me in one way or another...now I have to allow God's Glory to shine through. Each time God gives me the chance to reveal how his love and mercy has changed my life then his glory is shining through and the Kingdom of Heaven is being enlarged!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter was the BEST sermon I have EVER heard in my life!!!!
Today was amazing from the get go! I woke up earlier to get to church to help with last minute details. I met up with my dear friends for a quick hello and some chit chat before rushing off to nursery for the first and second service. When I got to the third service I was ready for a break :) I love the babies and teens, they are my heart and soul but I was ready for some worship time with God.
I felt like the message was going to be the normal Easter message. Don't get me wrong I would gladly hear it anytime yet I felt like I needed something different today. Then PB started talking about what it is like to give your life to God and he had my attention! See I invited God into my heart in May 2006 and he started chipping away things in my little by little. Then on November 5th, 2008 after months even years of thing building in my life, God set me at a crossroads. The choice was to keep going on the broken road leading nowhere or surrender my life to Jesus for a change!
I decided that afternoon the time had come to give up everything to God. Now don't think it was that easy, following God is not always a feel good feeling but it is the narrow path few choice to take in life. The reward is not here on earth, you will receive it in Heaven.
PB reminded us today that the world (enemy) is trying to make Jesus small in our lives. We can't make Jesus fit in whenever we want, he needs to be in control of our lives! When we truly come to Jesus our hearts change. I can confirm that is true. Those jokes or movies that seemed funny don't anymore...they disturb my spirit because they are wrong. People who lie, cheat, steal and hurt others with their words don't need to be apart of my life. I will love them like Jesus but he instructs us not to live life with them or you will become one of them. I do not have to tolerate their lifestyle if it causes my spiritual growth to be hindered. God doesn't want those people to take us away from him! We should always be growing towards God, change is the only thing constant in life! If you rebuke change them you become stale to God and the world he wants you to change!
When you release control you will become a new creation with new motivation, new thinking, new desires, a new world view...everything will change. God will change it all so he can use you and work through you to reach others. Some people will come into your life a friends and leave as strangers. God knows the bigger picture on why they played a role in your life even when the pain you have won't allow you to see it. We aren't to question God just trust him!
Jesus had to become big to me since I believe in a big God and have BIG dreams that only he can help me achieve. He is the creator of all, he lived perfectly and died brutually for me and you! We are called to live big but that doesn't mean lots or big material items in your life.
PB mentioned a few things you may have to surrender when you give everything in your life to God. Let me list a few of them and where I currently stand with those areas:
1 - He mentioned you might lose relationships (friends) - YUP! Lost those but within 3 days (a trinity sign?) God blessed me with an amazing core group of friends. Each person has introduced me to more people and I can't even tell you how many I call friends now.
2 - You might lose your job/finances hit - YUP! Lost my job 3 months ago and finances have taken a hit. I have 2 current positions lining up in the next month or so. I will be doing things I love in life and investing in God's kingdom. I am hoping another trinity example happens and the 3rd job I get will be enough to cover my living expenses. While I wait for God's plan to unroll I don't waste my time. I give it all to God, I volunteer at church, Diverge student ministries, with friends, in my community and mentor at 2nd Chance High School. Anything needed I give...it is all for God.
3 - My 10 year plan - YUP! That went out the window a long time ago and mainly because it was MINE and not HIS!
4 - Stuff - YUP! I am selling and downsizing!
LOL - want a few more areas he didn't mention you might lose?
5 - My church - I changed campus' then we merged many months ago - what God takes he gives back if it is his will. I was given back an amazing gift!
6 - My apartment - YUP! I am being blessed with some opportunities to come - further details to follow.
7 - My cats - YUP! Even though PB may occassionally run over a cat I have to find new homes for my babies. I am at peace with this since I know it is what God wants.
8 - One of my ministries - YUP! However, I found I was blessed to get more involved in a ministry that has captured my heart and able to join one that blesses me beyond belief each week.
Remember, God demands it all. Anything/anyone you are not willing to give to God he will take away. Those who have not surrendered to God will mock you and pound you down (trust me I know!) but never give up! The battle is God's not our own and he will have vengenance on those who attack his people. I take comfort in knowing God's punishment is worse than anything I could ever do or say to someone.
CONCLUSION: Today's message confirmed that the journey started 150 days ago has been wild, crazy, sad, fun, happy, joyous, scary and so much more! I don't know what each day holds but I know who holds it in his hands....JESUS!
I felt like the message was going to be the normal Easter message. Don't get me wrong I would gladly hear it anytime yet I felt like I needed something different today. Then PB started talking about what it is like to give your life to God and he had my attention! See I invited God into my heart in May 2006 and he started chipping away things in my little by little. Then on November 5th, 2008 after months even years of thing building in my life, God set me at a crossroads. The choice was to keep going on the broken road leading nowhere or surrender my life to Jesus for a change!
I decided that afternoon the time had come to give up everything to God. Now don't think it was that easy, following God is not always a feel good feeling but it is the narrow path few choice to take in life. The reward is not here on earth, you will receive it in Heaven.
PB reminded us today that the world (enemy) is trying to make Jesus small in our lives. We can't make Jesus fit in whenever we want, he needs to be in control of our lives! When we truly come to Jesus our hearts change. I can confirm that is true. Those jokes or movies that seemed funny don't anymore...they disturb my spirit because they are wrong. People who lie, cheat, steal and hurt others with their words don't need to be apart of my life. I will love them like Jesus but he instructs us not to live life with them or you will become one of them. I do not have to tolerate their lifestyle if it causes my spiritual growth to be hindered. God doesn't want those people to take us away from him! We should always be growing towards God, change is the only thing constant in life! If you rebuke change them you become stale to God and the world he wants you to change!
When you release control you will become a new creation with new motivation, new thinking, new desires, a new world view...everything will change. God will change it all so he can use you and work through you to reach others. Some people will come into your life a friends and leave as strangers. God knows the bigger picture on why they played a role in your life even when the pain you have won't allow you to see it. We aren't to question God just trust him!
Jesus had to become big to me since I believe in a big God and have BIG dreams that only he can help me achieve. He is the creator of all, he lived perfectly and died brutually for me and you! We are called to live big but that doesn't mean lots or big material items in your life.
PB mentioned a few things you may have to surrender when you give everything in your life to God. Let me list a few of them and where I currently stand with those areas:
1 - He mentioned you might lose relationships (friends) - YUP! Lost those but within 3 days (a trinity sign?) God blessed me with an amazing core group of friends. Each person has introduced me to more people and I can't even tell you how many I call friends now.
2 - You might lose your job/finances hit - YUP! Lost my job 3 months ago and finances have taken a hit. I have 2 current positions lining up in the next month or so. I will be doing things I love in life and investing in God's kingdom. I am hoping another trinity example happens and the 3rd job I get will be enough to cover my living expenses. While I wait for God's plan to unroll I don't waste my time. I give it all to God, I volunteer at church, Diverge student ministries, with friends, in my community and mentor at 2nd Chance High School. Anything needed I give...it is all for God.
3 - My 10 year plan - YUP! That went out the window a long time ago and mainly because it was MINE and not HIS!
4 - Stuff - YUP! I am selling and downsizing!
LOL - want a few more areas he didn't mention you might lose?
5 - My church - I changed campus' then we merged many months ago - what God takes he gives back if it is his will. I was given back an amazing gift!
6 - My apartment - YUP! I am being blessed with some opportunities to come - further details to follow.
7 - My cats - YUP! Even though PB may occassionally run over a cat I have to find new homes for my babies. I am at peace with this since I know it is what God wants.
8 - One of my ministries - YUP! However, I found I was blessed to get more involved in a ministry that has captured my heart and able to join one that blesses me beyond belief each week.
Remember, God demands it all. Anything/anyone you are not willing to give to God he will take away. Those who have not surrendered to God will mock you and pound you down (trust me I know!) but never give up! The battle is God's not our own and he will have vengenance on those who attack his people. I take comfort in knowing God's punishment is worse than anything I could ever do or say to someone.
CONCLUSION: Today's message confirmed that the journey started 150 days ago has been wild, crazy, sad, fun, happy, joyous, scary and so much more! I don't know what each day holds but I know who holds it in his hands....JESUS!
Friday, April 10, 2009
A lesson in life not a life lesson!
I believe God can use anything on the face of this earth to speak to us. Last night, I had one of those moments in a movie theatre. I know it sounds odd but there was this one part in Fast & Furious 4 where I felt time stand still. Since God is an awesome God and knows my love for Vin Diesel he let the stand still moment be when it was just him with that tough look on his face.
In that moment, I felt like I understood Vin Diesel's personality. In most of his roles he is the silent yet powerful character. He always says few words but the ones he speaks are powerful.
God tells us to use our words wisely and not to foolishly speak. I started studying scripture this morning and found a few I want to share.
Many useless words cause sin - Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."
Words can either hurt or heal (what will you chose?) Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
No sinner is better than another - no one but God should judge others Job 19 (NIV) "Then Job replied: 2 "How long will you torment me and crush me with words? 3 Ten times now you have reproached me; shamelessly you attack me. 4 If it is true that I have gone astray, my error remains my concern alone. 5 If indeed you would exalt yourselves above me and use my humiliation against me, "
Listening and Doing - James 1:19-20 (NIV)"19My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."
Advice for life - Proverbs 16:17-33 (NIV) "17 The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life. 18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. 20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. 21 The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. [a] 22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools. 23 A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. [b] 24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. 25 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. 26 The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on. 27 A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. 28 A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends. 29 A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good. 30 He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil. 31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life. 32 Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city. 33 The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."
In that moment, I felt like I understood Vin Diesel's personality. In most of his roles he is the silent yet powerful character. He always says few words but the ones he speaks are powerful.
God tells us to use our words wisely and not to foolishly speak. I started studying scripture this morning and found a few I want to share.
Many useless words cause sin - Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."
Words can either hurt or heal (what will you chose?) Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
No sinner is better than another - no one but God should judge others Job 19 (NIV) "Then Job replied: 2 "How long will you torment me and crush me with words? 3 Ten times now you have reproached me; shamelessly you attack me. 4 If it is true that I have gone astray, my error remains my concern alone. 5 If indeed you would exalt yourselves above me and use my humiliation against me, "
Listening and Doing - James 1:19-20 (NIV)"19My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."
Advice for life - Proverbs 16:17-33 (NIV) "17 The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life. 18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. 20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. 21 The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. [a] 22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools. 23 A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. [b] 24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. 25 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. 26 The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on. 27 A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. 28 A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends. 29 A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good. 30 He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil. 31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life. 32 Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city. 33 The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."
Thursday, April 9, 2009
WOW...I think Vin Diesel is the hottest!
Here is my review of Fast & Furious 4...GO SEE IT!!!!! Not only are their hot guys but totally an adrenaline rush!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Things go wrong & God shows up :)
ALL I CAN SAY IS OMG!!!!! Yesterday was the CRAZ-E-IST day EVER!!!!! I feel like I saw God moving, the enemy tries to destroy and then God's victory shining through....all in an 8 hour time frame.
So, on Tuesdays I volunteer at church to help Lance get ready for Diverge that night. Yesterday started bad with only 4 hours sleep but I didn't let that stop me. Then my finances took a hit but I didn't let that stop me. I have never felt so unorganized in my life. It was so bad I almost couldn't think and anyone who knows me will tell you I'm a planner and on top of everything (or at least try). I make it to church 30 minutes late and find out another sponsor is feeling the attack on her too :(
The stories of how the enemy was attacking kept coming in from sponsor to sponsor on what had gone wrong. We had a kitchen fire to start off the night, mic and audio problems, computer/tv issues, some kids had very heavy hearts because of life issues...the mood was a chaotic peace and one of battle. We knew what had to be done and we all pulled together to make it happen. I have never felt so proud to be on a team as I did last night! We are all soldiers in God's army!
I feel the reason he was trying to throw us off our game is because we started a new series in Diverge last night, "Jesus is my homeboy". This message was about the Crucifixion, Jesus' blood shed, the beating he took, his skin being ripped from his body, the fact he had to carry his cross on his wounded back, the crown of thorns placed on his head, his beard being pulled out and being spit on as a show of disrespect, etc.
The world has allowed Jesus' death on the cross to become a simple statement. In the movies like Talladega Nights and television shows like South Park they make fun of his story. We should have an anger that rises up in us as Christ followers when we hear people demoralizing our Savior! He died a brutal death for us and our sins. HOWEVER, his story didn't end there.
Easter isn't a holiday about a fuzzy bunny giving out candy. It is about Christ's resurrection, it is an Easter story about how he rose! He is alive and when we invite him in he lives in us. In our free will we can chose to live for him and make him known.
During worship at Diverge, I looked around the room to our future. These students are in need of leaders, those who are not perfect. They need to love God, to know him and understand what it is like to mess up and need his mercy and grace. These students can see through hypocrites, they want what is true and real. They need love, some don't get that in their homes. Many need someone to talk to because they have no one. I see every face and know God has a purpose for each one of them.
God loves them all no matter where they are at and he teaches us to love them right there where they are at in life. Don't condemn them just love them, help them! I also see the faces of children who will rise up as worship leaders, preachers, children workers, etc. I see God working on them and through them to reach others. These students love God with all their hearts and seek him with all they are...they have that childlike faith the bible talks about. I feel blessed beyond belief and any words I can find that God has trusted me to help disciple this generation to win more people to Christ. Thank you God :)
So, on Tuesdays I volunteer at church to help Lance get ready for Diverge that night. Yesterday started bad with only 4 hours sleep but I didn't let that stop me. Then my finances took a hit but I didn't let that stop me. I have never felt so unorganized in my life. It was so bad I almost couldn't think and anyone who knows me will tell you I'm a planner and on top of everything (or at least try). I make it to church 30 minutes late and find out another sponsor is feeling the attack on her too :(
The stories of how the enemy was attacking kept coming in from sponsor to sponsor on what had gone wrong. We had a kitchen fire to start off the night, mic and audio problems, computer/tv issues, some kids had very heavy hearts because of life issues...the mood was a chaotic peace and one of battle. We knew what had to be done and we all pulled together to make it happen. I have never felt so proud to be on a team as I did last night! We are all soldiers in God's army!
I feel the reason he was trying to throw us off our game is because we started a new series in Diverge last night, "Jesus is my homeboy". This message was about the Crucifixion, Jesus' blood shed, the beating he took, his skin being ripped from his body, the fact he had to carry his cross on his wounded back, the crown of thorns placed on his head, his beard being pulled out and being spit on as a show of disrespect, etc.
The world has allowed Jesus' death on the cross to become a simple statement. In the movies like Talladega Nights and television shows like South Park they make fun of his story. We should have an anger that rises up in us as Christ followers when we hear people demoralizing our Savior! He died a brutal death for us and our sins. HOWEVER, his story didn't end there.
Easter isn't a holiday about a fuzzy bunny giving out candy. It is about Christ's resurrection, it is an Easter story about how he rose! He is alive and when we invite him in he lives in us. In our free will we can chose to live for him and make him known.
During worship at Diverge, I looked around the room to our future. These students are in need of leaders, those who are not perfect. They need to love God, to know him and understand what it is like to mess up and need his mercy and grace. These students can see through hypocrites, they want what is true and real. They need love, some don't get that in their homes. Many need someone to talk to because they have no one. I see every face and know God has a purpose for each one of them.
God loves them all no matter where they are at and he teaches us to love them right there where they are at in life. Don't condemn them just love them, help them! I also see the faces of children who will rise up as worship leaders, preachers, children workers, etc. I see God working on them and through them to reach others. These students love God with all their hearts and seek him with all they are...they have that childlike faith the bible talks about. I feel blessed beyond belief and any words I can find that God has trusted me to help disciple this generation to win more people to Christ. Thank you God :)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Think before you speak....PLEASE
I just need to get this off my chest. In the past two days I have had two very dear friends come to me and express their hurt. Not everyone has a filter on their mouths. Please if you have a diarrhea mouth, take something before you speak! It is not fair to hurt others because you have a flaw of being kind! Remember we are all human and have feelings! Thanks!!!!
I got it :)
Okay, this blog has been on my heart for weeks now but I just keep writing notes on tons of little pieces of paper. Today I looked in my phone and I had like 5 voice memos with notes. Then there was Sunday's message, small group's lesson tonight and with Easter this Sunday. I have taken the hint it is time :) For real, I just need to write it!
About a month ago I went to Alabama with a friend to OneThing09. It was one of the most amazing worship events I have ever been to. Since then my worship has intensified and I don't care what others think. I hold up my hands, I sing my heart out...it is all about God and I'm not ashamed of him!
They were practically giving away TONS of worship cds and I got this one. This whole cd is about worshiping God NOT just singing a cute little song. It is all about heart quenching, deep worship to the God of creation.
Take a listen...
Misty Edwards from IHOP - Kansas City (I hope to one day go there and maybe even do a 3 month internship - God willing)
The words grip you...
- He isn't a baby in a manger anymore, he isn't a broken man on a cross anymore, he didn't stay in the grave and he isn't staying in Heaven forever. People get ready Jesus is coming!
- He has been silent like the lamb that was slaughtered. You thought he was all together like you. He will not be silent anymore. Don't believe the liars. He is real and he is coming back.
Here is what has been on my heart since this conference:
People say they live their life for Christ, they believe in God, they pray and go to church. Yet, who do they live for? Cause they are walking around with big pride saying "I'm not gonna forgive people" "I'm not gonna serve" "I'm not gonna tithe (which is 10% of your income not what you have left over in your pocket)it is MINE" "I have a right to feel the way I feel". God gave us all free will to live for him and make the choice for him.
This song is so true about people with their fingers in their ears saying "la-da-da la-da-da, I don't wanna hear the sound of the king." There are people who think they are bigger and better than Christ and they are not! God is going to say "I didn't know you" and those people will be cast into the lake of fire, the pit of hell. If we do not know him and are not serving him then what are you doing? Are you playing church? If you are that is a dangerous game to play.
So, the choice is yours...who do you live for? Live for yourself, your pride, greed, money or jealousy? OR Live for God, the one who loves, understands, offers peace, a God of compassion to take care of others. Life is a choice, we each get to choose. Which road do you choose to take? Will your life change in this moment or will you continue to live for yourself? We all stray and fall away but God's love, mercy and grace is for EVERYONE who walks the face of this earth! Pick up your cross, bear it, fix what has been broken, give it to God and leave it at his feet to be reconciled.
What part of your life do you not trust to give to Jesus? He has proved he is trustworthy from the manger to the cross to the grave. He would do anything for us, after all he gave his life so we could live! We can never repay him because the cost was too high. We all were bought by the blood of the lamb! He was the perfect sacrifice. All he asks of us is to know him and make him known. Share the genuine love of Jesus with this lost and broken world. We are not to be hypocrites, how can you expect forgiveness if you don't offer it in return? We must stop being fake and phony, God is real and we are all destined with a purpose. We are to love people where they are at and serve God, love him, adore him, worship him. He is our father and Savior...he is worthy of all we have to offer!
About a month ago I went to Alabama with a friend to OneThing09. It was one of the most amazing worship events I have ever been to. Since then my worship has intensified and I don't care what others think. I hold up my hands, I sing my heart out...it is all about God and I'm not ashamed of him!
They were practically giving away TONS of worship cds and I got this one. This whole cd is about worshiping God NOT just singing a cute little song. It is all about heart quenching, deep worship to the God of creation.
Take a listen...
Misty Edwards from IHOP - Kansas City (I hope to one day go there and maybe even do a 3 month internship - God willing)
The words grip you...
- He isn't a baby in a manger anymore, he isn't a broken man on a cross anymore, he didn't stay in the grave and he isn't staying in Heaven forever. People get ready Jesus is coming!
- He has been silent like the lamb that was slaughtered. You thought he was all together like you. He will not be silent anymore. Don't believe the liars. He is real and he is coming back.
Here is what has been on my heart since this conference:
People say they live their life for Christ, they believe in God, they pray and go to church. Yet, who do they live for? Cause they are walking around with big pride saying "I'm not gonna forgive people" "I'm not gonna serve" "I'm not gonna tithe (which is 10% of your income not what you have left over in your pocket)it is MINE" "I have a right to feel the way I feel". God gave us all free will to live for him and make the choice for him.
This song is so true about people with their fingers in their ears saying "la-da-da la-da-da, I don't wanna hear the sound of the king." There are people who think they are bigger and better than Christ and they are not! God is going to say "I didn't know you" and those people will be cast into the lake of fire, the pit of hell. If we do not know him and are not serving him then what are you doing? Are you playing church? If you are that is a dangerous game to play.
So, the choice is yours...who do you live for? Live for yourself, your pride, greed, money or jealousy? OR Live for God, the one who loves, understands, offers peace, a God of compassion to take care of others. Life is a choice, we each get to choose. Which road do you choose to take? Will your life change in this moment or will you continue to live for yourself? We all stray and fall away but God's love, mercy and grace is for EVERYONE who walks the face of this earth! Pick up your cross, bear it, fix what has been broken, give it to God and leave it at his feet to be reconciled.
What part of your life do you not trust to give to Jesus? He has proved he is trustworthy from the manger to the cross to the grave. He would do anything for us, after all he gave his life so we could live! We can never repay him because the cost was too high. We all were bought by the blood of the lamb! He was the perfect sacrifice. All he asks of us is to know him and make him known. Share the genuine love of Jesus with this lost and broken world. We are not to be hypocrites, how can you expect forgiveness if you don't offer it in return? We must stop being fake and phony, God is real and we are all destined with a purpose. We are to love people where they are at and serve God, love him, adore him, worship him. He is our father and Savior...he is worthy of all we have to offer!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Inspiration for the present time
Every have one of those "AH HA" God moments? Well today I got one in church. First let me say that if it could go wrong this morning it did...me and my friends ran late because a sleepover we decided to have about midnight Saturday night. You know how us girls like to stay up late talking :) So, with four of us trying to get ready with only 2 bathrooms you can imagine the chaos.
Any hoo, I didn't realize how powerful the songs would be or the message either today in church. I figured I might take a good money lesson home with me BUT NO...I got a life lesson. As I sang my heart out to God about how I give him everything so I can live for him...I realized I have one last area that must be surrender. I gave him my friends, my church, my job...he took and gave back what I was suppose to have according to his will for my life.
As PB starts preaching I think about my current situation and all the details. I realize the things I am struggling with are important but must be given up for God. I have 9 days to make a major decision and then 6 weeks to react/prepare to the decision. I know this sounds odd and weird but I'm not ready to publish the details till I can give them with God's glory shining through. What I can say is I trust him and he knows what is best for me. I have heart desires that I want but I struggle with wondering if they are what HE wants for me.
In the end, when times ceases to exist and I am standing in front of God on judgement day I want my Father in Heaven to look at me and say "Well done my good faithful servant" (Matthew 25). I never want to put any earthly thing or person ahead of him. The cost is high because it will cost me my desires but on the other hand we are promised that Eternity with God will be greater than anything we could ever imagine.
It's time and it all starts today! A new chapter has been written and I know what I must do. The plan of action is together. I will charge forward for God knowing he directs my steps.
Praise God for saving this sinner's life and giving me a purpose! We all have had messed up lives and some of us still live in them. When will you give it all to God? When is enough of this world enough? When does God get his rightful place in your life? I get it when people think I got it all but do you really? I had to hit rock bottom with dust blowing around me and when it all settled I realized I had no one but God! I lost everything yet he never left me and he has restored me!
I love you God and thank you for the sacrifice of the cross. I will pick up mine and follow you until you return.
Thanks PB for the reminder today that we must fight the fight of good faith...God will prevail.
Key scripture for today's message: 1 Timothy 6-12 (NLT) But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Any hoo, I didn't realize how powerful the songs would be or the message either today in church. I figured I might take a good money lesson home with me BUT NO...I got a life lesson. As I sang my heart out to God about how I give him everything so I can live for him...I realized I have one last area that must be surrender. I gave him my friends, my church, my job...he took and gave back what I was suppose to have according to his will for my life.
As PB starts preaching I think about my current situation and all the details. I realize the things I am struggling with are important but must be given up for God. I have 9 days to make a major decision and then 6 weeks to react/prepare to the decision. I know this sounds odd and weird but I'm not ready to publish the details till I can give them with God's glory shining through. What I can say is I trust him and he knows what is best for me. I have heart desires that I want but I struggle with wondering if they are what HE wants for me.
In the end, when times ceases to exist and I am standing in front of God on judgement day I want my Father in Heaven to look at me and say "Well done my good faithful servant" (Matthew 25). I never want to put any earthly thing or person ahead of him. The cost is high because it will cost me my desires but on the other hand we are promised that Eternity with God will be greater than anything we could ever imagine.
It's time and it all starts today! A new chapter has been written and I know what I must do. The plan of action is together. I will charge forward for God knowing he directs my steps.
Praise God for saving this sinner's life and giving me a purpose! We all have had messed up lives and some of us still live in them. When will you give it all to God? When is enough of this world enough? When does God get his rightful place in your life? I get it when people think I got it all but do you really? I had to hit rock bottom with dust blowing around me and when it all settled I realized I had no one but God! I lost everything yet he never left me and he has restored me!
I love you God and thank you for the sacrifice of the cross. I will pick up mine and follow you until you return.
Thanks PB for the reminder today that we must fight the fight of good faith...God will prevail.
Key scripture for today's message: 1 Timothy 6-12 (NLT) But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
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